Picture A Promise

Blue Skies

2011-11-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

Today's moment. I stood outdoor in my back yard waiting for some of my bird friends to stop by and when I looked up, I saw a beautiful blue sky and a few wispy clouds. Lovely day, just lovely!

Blessings~

Little Red

2011-11-07T20:36:00.000-08:00

Today's moment. I stood outside near the trees and the feeders where so many birds were congregating earlier this afternoon. The Chickadees and Nuthatches would swoop in for a nut or sunflower but the Sparrows and Jays are much more cautious. Eventually the finches and the sparrows would perch in the high branches of the trees. Perfect, the high branches were in the late afternoon light. I was able to capture the catch light in the eye on a few of the photos. What fun, the Jay's did come as close as one of the trees but didn't stay long. Maybe tomorrow.....

Blessings~

Junco

2011-11-07T20:21:00.000-08:00

Sunday's moment, this sweet Junco perched high enough in the tree so that he sat in the light of the afternoon sun.

Just One More Peanut

2011-11-05T19:25:00.000-07:00

Today's moment, my little Nuthatch seemed pleased that I'd put out a fresh buffet of seeds and nuts. I so enjoy these little friends.

Blessings~

Blue on Blue

2011-11-05T11:16:00.000-07:00

Friday's moment, I spent the day working on orders and contacting customers, listing things in my Etsy shop so I didn't go looking for an artistic shot or even go watch my birdies. I put my prime lens on the camera, I rarely use it and I need to learn how. I like the soft blur of everything except the earrings on this. It does work well for photographing my merchandise. I guess Friday's moment was a teaching or learning moment.

Blessings~Faylin

Sun Gone Down

2011-11-04T14:54:00.000-07:00

Thursday's moment. Spent a lovely afternoon with a friend, a long lunch. Ran a couple errands and between stops I stopped to enjoy this brief but colorful moment in the parking lot of the craft store. I much prefer the natural light of daytime but am thankful for the electric lights when night falls.

Blessings~

Harris Sparrow

2011-11-02T17:09:00.000-07:00

Other than my Nuthatches and Chickadees not too many birds are bold enough to come feed when I stand near the feeders. This one however was bold enough to scratch in the grass not too far from me. I believe it to be an immature Harris Sparrow. Correct me if I'm wrong please!

Blessings~Faylin

A Seed A Day

2011-11-01T17:37:00.000-07:00

Today I stood outside near my feeders and just waited for the birds to come after refilling the feeders. The nuthatches are the bravest. Three or four of them would fly in and dash out each with a seed or peanut in their beaks. What fun!

Spooky

2011-10-31T20:31:00.000-07:00

Just a quick shot tonight, the "spooky" ghost trio in the yard across the street, they are life size!

Blessings~

Mason

2011-10-30T20:50:00.000-07:00

Today's moment, Mason was quite somber all day but when he saw I was going to take his pic, he stopped what he was doing, looked straight at the camera, smiled and posed for me. This is the only smile I got all day, I continued taking pics but I guess there was only this one smile he would share with me today. So glad I captured this moment! Mason is one of two sweet little great nephews I have. I am looking forward to Jimmy visiting from Alaska in a few weeks. I hope he has at least one smile for me too!

Blessings~

Old Iron

2011-10-30T20:28:00.001-07:00

Saturday's moment (October 29th). Took a short walk around mom and dads farm place. I love this place, full of old treasures; rusted cars, vintage machinery, weathered buildings a windmill and this wonderful old bed frame. I love this piece, dad said I could have it, one day I'll bring it home with me and put it in my flower bed for viney things to climb up.

Blessings~

October 28

2011-10-30T20:11:00.000-07:00

Friday''s moment (October 28th). As I traveled north to visit my mom and dad this huge mushrooming cloud was in front of me. It was fun to watch the changes and made my trip go faster. Eventually I met it and as I passed it, a little rain did fall!

My Nuthatch

2011-10-30T19:54:00.001-07:00

Thursdays moment October 27th, a quick nuthatch at my feeder, but today I was quick too!

Fall Dakota Sky

2011-10-26T19:38:00.000-07:00

I had some errands to run in Fargo today. The skies were amazing. I pulled off at an exit and took a a few pics. I like this one, a little land a lot of sky!

Blessings~

Poser

2011-10-25T17:30:00.001-07:00

Today's moment, one spent with my feathered friends. I never tire of the chickadees

Blessings~.

A Gathering

2011-10-24T18:59:00.000-07:00

Stopped by Chahinkapa today to see the geese. There were so many and it was a pretty fall afternoon. I was so excited about the potential good pics I got but when I got home and uploaded them they were not as clear and sharp as I'd have liked. This isn't my best work but it certainly was a moment in my day.

Blessings

Caught!

2011-10-23T15:06:00.000-07:00

I put out peanuts the other day in the hopes of attracting the Blue Jays. Today one stopped by. I expected him to take the peanuts, someone had been eating them. Instead he was on the large feeder filling his gullet with the finer bird seed. Maybe the squirrels and chipmunks ate the peanuts.......

Morning Gold

2011-10-23T12:55:00.000-07:00

My backyard, my grape vines, sunkissed on Saturday morning. We have had a most lovely fall with dry sunny days and only a couple of nights with freezing temps. Saturday proved to be a beautiful day with temps in the 60's. Warm for October in ND. This was the moment I most enjoyed the wonderful day, I spent most of it at my sewing machine sewing strips together for weaving rugs.....orders for Christmas..... I know that soon, it will look much different as we begin to get snow and that snow begins to pile up. When it does, I'll pull up this pick and think about this day.

Blessings~

A Very Present Danger

2011-10-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

I'm a couple days behind in posting my daily pics. This is Fridays pic. I love watching my birds in the back yard. Unfortunately, so do the town cats. This guy was prowling about around my back yard Friday. He posed for his mug shot before turning tail and racing off. He looks just like the cat I saw at my girlfriends a week earlier a few miles out of town. He looks just like our house cat too, except meaner.....

Blessings~

Mr. Chicken

2011-10-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

Today I went to visit a good friend of mine. She's got chickens! We spent a bit of time hanging out by the fence watching the chickens and visiting. The roosters were crowing, the hens were clucking and we were too, it was a real hen party! I watched my friend fill a basket with pretty brown eggs and she was so sweet to send a dozen home with me. Scrambled eggs for breakfast. I have not gone visiting in years but today I had the best time! Hope to do that again soon!

Blessings~Faylin

My Little Chickadee

2011-10-20T18:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's post. I got the photo taken but didn't get to posting til now. I love my birds, my Chickadees are some of my favorites. They don't often sit still long enough for me to get a photo so I'm really tickled to get this!

Blessings~

A Little Birdie Told Me

2011-10-18T18:49:00.000-07:00

I filled my feeders for the first time in months yesterday. It didn't take my birds long to find the sunflower and other bird seeds. Today I changed my lens for the first time in months too. Put my 55-200 lens on. I still needed to crop this a bunch but I love the sweet little birdies.

For some reason, the photos on the blog are not real clear, they're a bit blurry. If you click on the photo, it will take you to a clearer pic.

River Winding

2011-10-17T17:11:00.000-07:00

A beautiful fall day and a look at the Wild Rice River. Loving the long mild fall we've been having! Glad I could take a moment to enjoy it.

Blessings~

A Sweet Treat

2011-10-16T12:26:00.001-07:00

Today's moment is a sweet little treat, fresh strawberries and real whipped cream in one of my new dessert dishes. They are new to me but they are antiques. I won them in an auction at church today. They were new when a sweet friend of mine was a new bride nearly 55 years ago. She started to tell me about the tables being set with white table cloths and the newly acquired glassware for a celebration for her and her new groom. We were interrupted so I hope to hear the rest of the story soon!

Blessings~

A Loom Full!

2011-10-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

I've been weaving and weaving! My loom is officially full! I've never woven till the rugs meet the beater bar. This batch is woven using old clothing like tshirts, sweats, denim jeans and khaki's. I love that I can recycle or upcycle, keeping all those things out of a landfill. I love even more that I am carrying on an old craft, weaving just like my grandmother did. Now I need to get them off the loom and get them tied. I think I'll put in an old movie and sit and tie and tie and tie!

Blessings~

Lisa's Barn

2011-10-15T12:40:00.000-07:00

I was headed to the river, I knew there was a big old barn there that I had photographed before. As I drove past my friends drive way I looked down the path and saw their beautiful old barn and the antique tractor sitting in front of it. I drove a little further and then decided to turn around. This was too cool to pass up. Stirs up images from my child hood. My dad's cousin had an old white barn, and we used old tractors similar to this when I worked in the fields with my family.

Blessings~

On the Prowl

2011-10-13T19:58:00.001-07:00

Busy day today, as I was driving to Fargo, I stopped by a friends farmstead to take a pic of their neat old barn. As I was shooting I heard a mewing in the trees and soon this cat came and walked past me. He was on the hunt but I snapped a couple pics before he got away. Looks just like my cat Misty. If I didn't know Misty was home safe in the house (indoor cat only) I would have thought this was her!

Blessings~

Still a Little Color

2011-10-12T13:04:00.001-07:00

I live less than 1 mile from the Red River of the North, I went down to the river today and was delighted to see there was still some leaves left on the trees and a bit of color. This winding river looks peaceful and calm right now. Come spring it will be many feet higher and swift moving. The river has caused slumping on this side of the river at Fort Abercrombie Historical Site. We loose a few feet of the grounds every spring......

Again it's not clear here on the blog but if you click the photo, it takes you to a better image

Blessings~

My Fall Gerba

2011-10-11T12:36:00.000-07:00

It is a gorgeous fall day here in ND. Temps near the 70 degree mark, couldn't ask for a nicer October day. I love fall, my favorite time of year. I love the colors of the changing leaves and the way they crunch underfoot when you walk on them. I love my few last blooming flowers. Those that hold on to summer as long as they can. My Gerba Daisys will continue to bloom til the hard freeze. Today this bee loved my daisy too. What could be better than gathering a late harvest of pollen on a sun warmed daisy on this Indian Summer afternoon. Well, photographing it might be better.....

Blessings~

The Duck Pond

2011-10-10T17:07:00.000-07:00

Ran some errands today so I stopped by Chahinkapa Park in Wahpeton. Lots of geese and ducks on the other side of the park but only a handful of ducks at the duck pond. Enjoyed a lovely afternoon.

Just a note, I'm not sure why the photos look blurry on the blog. Click the image to get a clearer look. If anyone has any ideas as to why they look blurry and what I could do differently, I would love to hear from you!

Blessings~

A Fresh Start

2011-10-09T13:04:00.000-07:00

I've taken over a year off from my blog. I've gotten lazy with my camera. I've felt that since I don't leave near the mountains, the ocean, a lake or even some hills I didn't have anything great to photograph. I miss my camera, I miss the thrill of the hunt for a good photograph. I may have lost most if not all of my readers. Time for a new start. I live in a beautiful world that I take for granted. Taking the time to photograph a moment of my day, each day if possible, will hopefully help me see again the beauty that surrounds me. My goals, take a pic everyday and in so doing, regain an appreciation for the blessings I've been given as well as learn, see something in the ordinary that others may not see, photograph it and share it with the world.

This is my beautiful back yard.

Blessings~

August 16, 2010 Good Enough to Eat

2010-08-19T17:00:00.001-07:00

Good Enough to Eat, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

Today I will let the photo speak for it's self so to speak.....

Blessings~

August 15, 2010 Let the Harvest begin!

2010-08-19T07:23:00.001-07:00

Let the Harvest begin!, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

I notice a few days ago that the grapes were starting to turn. I also noticed the birds were already snacking! Last year by the time I got out there they had picked the entire crop clean! I was determined this year to not let that happen. I had a very good crop this year, beautiful, big and sweet! This is bowl number on of 5 and the birds pecked holes in at least one bowlful of grapes. I don't mind picking, I don't like cleaning. They smell so good when you cook them, they are easy to smush thru the colander and take for ever to strain thru the jelly bag. The juice leaves stains on my tupperware, my counter and my finger nails but the end result is the best tasting grape jelly you have ever tasted!

My grandma had grapes, that's why I wanted them. Glad she did, glad I do. Thanks Grandma Ida, love you...miss you!

Blessings~

August 14, 2010 My Boy

2010-08-18T07:15:00.001-07:00

My Boy, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

In a few days school starts again. I am a school cook so I enjoy the summers off and dread the start of school every fall. I would love to stay home but am very thankful God provided a job I can walk to and be home when my kids are home. This year it is especially hard to see the school year begin, my baby,Isaac, the handsome young man above is a senior this year. It is exciting to see our children grow into adults, to become all that they can be. But some of the steps towards that are bittersweet. I am finding that with my third son every step is more intense, his learners permit, his drivers test, his first solo car drive, his first prom, his class ring, his first job, his senior year. So many firsts for him, so many lasts for me. I pray that I will slow down and catch the memories as we make them this year. Far too soon our sweet baby boys have become young men. But I am oh so very proud of each of them. I love you Zach, Ethan and Isaac!

Blessings~

August 13. 2010 Aged Wood

2010-08-17T17:13:00.001-07:00

Aged Wood, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

One of my stops in Itasca State Park was the Tallest/Oldest White Pine in MN. Nearby there is a fallen hero, a tree that was probably at least as old and big and beautiful if not more so. Now it lays in pieces near by. The base of the tree is still standing, rotting out. The process of returning to the earth happens in small stages and each time I visit I love to study the exposed grain, the growth rings, the textures, colors and shapes. This is just a tiny glimpse of the beauty of one huge old tree, no two spots on it are the same, just as no two trees are the same, just as no two human beings are exactly the same. I think our lives sometimes break us down, weather and wear us. The storms of life cans remove our protective "bark". Time and life lessons smooth our rough exterior and the sunshine of good times brings contrast and beauty.

Blessings~

August 12, 2010 Woodsy Daisy

2010-08-17T10:49:00.001-07:00

Woodsy Daisy, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

One of the things I love about summer and hiking in the woods is the wild variety of floral and fauna one can see. These pretty blue asters (I think) http://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/smooth-blue-aster were a sweet surprise! So dainty and delicate yet they survive and even thrive in the wilderness of the forest in northern MN. A reminder to bloom where you're planted....you never know who may come along and be delighted to find you just where you are!

Blessings~

August 11, 2010 Fall Color

2010-08-17T07:28:00.001-07:00

Fall Color, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

It is only mid- August and yet as I look around, the signs of fall are about. There is a crispness in the air in the early morning, apples hanging heavy on the tree, deep purple grapes on my vines and just a bit of color as my eyes peruse my back yard. There are yellow leaves on the trees and on a few on the ground. I see a bright red leaf in my strawberry patch and big orange thorn apples on my rose bush. When I hiked in Itasca there was lots of fall color there too. These pretty leaves in yellow and purple. The poison ivy was red, yellow, orange, purple, rust and browns. I saw a few leaves on the ground and some golden on the trees. I love summer, hate saying goodbye to it......So I soak up every bit of beauty and color, scent and sun's ray I can to remember during the long cold, white and sometime bleak winter. Tuck away at least one warm, bright, colorful memory today!

Blessings~

August 10, 2010 Tiny Petals

2010-08-16T14:47:00.001-07:00

Tiny Petals, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

I have spent a lot of time outdoors in my lifetime. Grew up a country kid.....cow pasture, hayfield, berry woods, the outdoors was my playroom. Yet every time I take a walk, go hiking or spend time in nature I see things I have never seen before! Often in places I have spent time in before. The wonder of creation and the amazing ingenuity of the creator sometimes takes my breath away! There is most likely something you've walked past before but never seen, slow down and really look around you. I hope you find something wonderful that leaves you delighted, intrigued....breathless......

Blessings!

August 9, 2010 All Lined Up!

2010-08-16T11:10:00.001-07:00

All Lined Up!, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

There are so many unique and interesting things in nature. I saw this fern and thought how the parts of it look a little like a line of pine trees. Could be because I had been walking around looking at the pine tree trunks in the woods, along my path and like in the previous post, above me. What do you see? Soldiers standing at attention, people in line at the coffee place, a choir singing praise music on Sunday morning? It is good to exercise our imagination on a regular basis. Like our bodies, it works better when we do!

Blessings~

August 8, 2010 Tall Pines

2010-08-16T06:18:00.001-07:00

Tall Pines , originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

First I apologize for getting a whole week behind! I will post multiple posts in the next couple days to get caught up.

After the festival on Sunday I spent a little more time in the Itasca State Park...a fave place of mine in Minnesota. It was at least 90 and high humidity but when I'm hiking I hardly notice!

There are lots of these tall straight pines in Itasca, the previous post showed them along my hiking path. This pic shows what you see most of the time when you look straight up! When there's a wind you can hear the needles whispering, the creaking of two trees pushing against each other and you can see them sway when you look straight up. I hope you take the time to notice the details in the "forest" what ever that might be for you. I hope you recognize the beauty and extraordinary int the commonplace!

Blessings~

August 7, 2010 Follow the Path

2010-08-10T11:14:00.001-07:00

Follow the Path, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

I grew up in Northern MN and most summers we would find our way to Itasca State Park. We would meet cousins there for a family reunion. It was always so much fun! I've always loved the tall straight white and red pines that are so much a part of the this beautiful park. This past weekend I enjoyed several small hikes thru the beautiful forests. Some of my paths were like this, wide, groomed so to speak while others were just a narrow trail thru grass or brush. Doesn't this make you want to follow to see where it leads, to find what's just around the bend? I know what's there, more beauty. And I will follow the path again and again to see and experience the ever changing beauty of nature!

Blessings~

August 6, 2010 Wispy Wings

2010-08-10T07:13:00.001-07:00

Wispy Wings, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

I spent a couple hours in Itasca State Park on Friday before going over to the Itasca Family Bluegrass Festival. I love to hike in the woods so I found a couple short hikes to take. On my first one this lovely little dragonfly posed for me on the ends of a fern leaf. I came to the realization that I may be happiest just traipsing thru the woods with my camera!

Blessings~

August 5, 2010 Chokecherries

2010-08-09T21:09:00.001-07:00

Chokecherries, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

It's that time of year again! The wild berries and fruits are starting to mature. Time to pick some of them and make them into delicious treats for the long winter! Chokecherries are great for jelly and syrup. I spent many happy hours in the berry woods picking chokecherries, blueberries, wild raspberries, wild cranberries, wild plums, and June berries. I would also help clean them and mom would make jellies, jams, sauce or juice. My favorite is still the wild cranberries. We don't have berry woods here in ND but mom still picks every year. I'm so glad she is willing to share some of her cranberry sauce with me!

Blessings~

August 4, 2010 Daisy Yellow

2010-08-04T20:41:00.001-07:00

Daisy Yellow, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

One from earlier this summer, the daisies in my flower bed. Happy summer flowers don't you think! He loves me, he loves me not, He loves me!

Blessings~

August 3, 2010 Come Sit a Spell

2010-08-04T07:48:00.001-07:00

Come Sit a Spell, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

I love these chairs! This pair looks well used and so inviting. I just need a good book and some ice water.....

Blessings~

August 2, 2010 After the Rain

2010-08-03T20:37:00.001-07:00

After the Rain, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

A close up shot of a geranium after a brief rain shower. Droplets of water cling to the petals. Hope you enjoy!

Blessings~

August 1, 2019 Radiant Rose

2010-08-03T11:11:00.001-07:00

Radiant Rose, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

This is another pic I pulled up from our little trip in June. There were beautiful rose bushes outside the Sertoma Butterfly House in Sioux Falls SD. We spent a very enjoyable afternoon there and my son and his wife were so patient with us. This one is for Zach and Whitney..... Love you guys!

Blessings~

July 31, 2010 Wings and White

2010-08-02T20:54:00.001-07:00

412, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

I am behind in my posting again! I captured this beauty in the Sertoma Butterfly House in Sioux Falls SD, early June.

Blessings~

July 30, 2010 Prairie Beauty

2010-08-02T07:10:00.001-07:00

Prairie Beauty, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

A cropped version of the milkweed pics I took in Maplewood State Park. Too pretty to be a weed!

Blessings~

July 29, 2010 Wings and Nectar

2010-07-29T20:46:00.001-07:00

A Strange Little Bug...., originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

One of the bugs we saw on our hike in Buffalo River State Park in Minnesota was this interesting little guy. We thought at first perhaps it was a bee but I'm not so sure! If you have any idea what this little guy is called I would love your input!

Blessings~

July 28, 2010 A Bit Seedy

2010-07-29T09:26:00.001-07:00

A Bit Seedy, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

We found a perfect "puffball", a flower gone to seed, kind of like a dandelion. This is a somewhat cropped version, a bit of the abstract.

Blessings~

July 27, 2010 A Walk in the Park

2010-07-28T20:56:00.001-07:00

A walk in the Park, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

A path in the woods, we don't know for sure where it leads. We can see just a little bit ahead but that's all. Our lives are like that, we are on our life path and we can see a little bit down the path but we don't know what lies around the bend. This path was mapped out for us and as we hiked we would check our map. At times we would have to choose right or left and with our map, we knew that eventually we would come back to where we began. We stayed on our path and had an enjoyable afternoon. In life we can stay on the path but for some of us it is much more satisfying to make our own path. I would have loved to cut thru the woods and explored a little more the things others had not seen. I'm like that in life a little bit too! Which ever way you walk your path, enjoy!

Blessings~

I'm thinking this would make a great spot to do some of my sons senior portraits. The trick will be to get him there! This is in Buffalo River State Park in Minnesota.

July 26, 2010 Ready for Harvest

2010-07-27T19:24:00.001-07:00

Ready for Harvest, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

Most of the small grain I see in the fields in this area is wheat. When I saw the 2 fields of oats I had to stop and get some photos. This looks to be nearly ready for the harvest. As a farmer daughter, a field of beautiful grain ready for harvest is a thrilling sight!

Blessing~

July 25, 2010 Tree Seeds

2010-07-25T18:35:00.001-07:00

Tree Seeds, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

Found these pretty seeds on a tree when we visited the zoo. They look nice when they are on the tree but when they fall off and into your flower bed and little trees start growing they are really a pain!

Blessings~

July 24, 2010 Birdie Baby

2010-07-25T09:13:00.001-07:00

Birdie Baby, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

On our hike in Buffalo River State Park in MN we came upon the Science Center. While reading the signs the barn swallows began swooping at us, I didn't think too much about it til we went to the other side of the sign. There was quite a mess at the bottom and on the ground. When we looked up we found this wonderful surprise! There were at least 4 little ones in the nest! We quickly left after I took this photo to give the parent birds a little peace of mind!

Blessings~

July 23, 2010 Along a Country Road

2010-07-24T19:10:00.001-07:00

Along a Country Road, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

Took a little road trip to Minnesota. We headed toward Rollag with some rugs for a customer then took a few gravel roads to see what we could see. There were some beautiful country scenes. Growing up a Minnesota farm girl it was like driving the back roads of my childhood!
Later we checked out Buffalo River State Park and did a little hiking. Will post a pic or two in the days to come!

Blessings~

July 22, 2010 Zoo Lily

2010-07-24T08:34:00.001-07:00

Zoo Lily, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

In addition to all the wonderful animals at the zoo there is some gorgeous vegetation as well. Several flower beds full of coneflowers, lilies, daisies and more. This is an example of some of that beauty!

Blessings~

July 21, 2010 Say What?

2010-07-22T14:41:00.001-07:00

, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

Spent the evening at the Chahinkapa Zoo in Wahpeton, ND. Crazy day special- free admission! We were there 3 hours, saw everything and had a blast! I loved the free ranging birds, ducks, geese, a black swan and these crazy Guinea Hens. Boy can they make a ruckus! Love their polka dot dress and red accessories! If you have not visited a zoo lately you should, you're never to old to talk to the animals!

Blessings~

July 20, 2010 The Old Home Place

2010-07-22T09:53:00.001-07:00

The Old Home Place, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

Took a road trip to meet my son in Watertown SD. Took the backroads home and found this beautiful old house and pickup truck. Would have loved to stomp around, get a little closer, still a bit shy about potentially invading someones privacy or trespassing. A grand home in it's day, so sad to see it looking quite lonesome!

Blessings~

July 19, 2010 Posing for Me!

2010-07-21T06:42:00.001-07:00

Posing for Me!, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

There were several Canada Geese near Cataract Lake in Maplewood State Park, MN. They didn't seem to concerned about us. This one stood like this for several minutes. I didn't move and neither did he. I just kept snapping pics! Great fun!

Blessings~

July 18, Quick, be Quick!

2010-07-19T11:01:00.001-07:00

Quick, be Quick!, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

Spent our Sunday in Maplewood State Park in Minnesota. Beautiful place. We hiked thru the woods, thru the meadow and even along the road. So many beautiful things to see, green leaves on the trees, mushrooms along the wooded path, beautiful lakes and lovely water lilies. There were also bugs, biting bugs like skeeters and sand flies, bees and horseflies. We also saw lots of Monarch butterflies, Red Admirals and smaller yellow and white ones. There were lots of Dragonflies too. I don't usually have the patience or the quick finger to capture them but today I did, I was very pleased with my self! :D

Blessings~

July 17, 2010 Opening

2010-07-19T08:48:00.001-07:00

Opening, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

My volunteer Sunflowers in the front flower bed are beginning to open. I love how the green sepals or calyx look to be protecting the more delicate petals. (If I am using the wrong terms for the flower parts, please correct me!) Reminds me that my Heavenly Father has his gentle yet strong arms around me, protecting me, guideing me, helping me be the best I can be, all that I he created me to be!

Blessings~

July 16, 2010 A little different

2010-07-17T11:25:00.001-07:00

A little different, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

If you choose to stand out as a creative, anticipate hardship, misunderstanding, doubt & the rewards reserved only for those who stay true. Dane Sanders

Sometimes you can feel like you are the odd man out, the one who is out of the loop, the "weird" or "crazy" one. I feel like that a lot. I have to remind myself that the qualities or characteristics, gifts or talents that may make me seem a little different are really the difference between being ordinary or being unique. I choose unique! There is no one else just like me, I am one of a kind. So are you, embrace what makes you you, develop it let it make you stand out in a crowd, let it make you shine!

Blessings~

July 15, 2010 Coneflower

2010-07-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

I decided to play a little with the black and white. I did this and a lily. They turn out so soft, calming I think. What do you think. I like black and white but need to play with it more... Fun!
Blessings~

July 14, 2010 Waiting for the Sun

2010-07-14T21:23:00.000-07:00

I had a few volunteer sunflowers in my flower bed this spring. This one is at eye level for my 5'3" frame. How fun to watch it change from day to day!

July 13, 2010 Iris

2010-07-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is a pic from a couple years ago. My Irises after an early morning rain. I used a little nikon 3 megapixel point and shoot and then cropped it. Still one of my favorite pics.
Blessings~

July 12, 2010 Dancers

2010-07-13T18:35:00.000-07:00

In moms flower bed I found these pretty yellow daisies. There was a bit of a breeze and so the daisies seemed to dance about. The movement of the leaves and and flowers created the dreamy background.
Blessings~

July 11, 2010 Floating on Air

2010-07-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

I got to spend a little time with my mom and dad when I traveled "up north" for the family reunion. Mom has this wonderful yard that is really woods they have cleaned up. There are wonderful wildflowers (mom calls them weeds) that grow mixed in with the things she has planted. When they bought the little farm these lillies were growing everywhere! They dug up some but there are still lilies along the house and another shed and in the center of the yard. This spring she sent a box full home with me so next summer I'll have them in several spots too.
As always you can find more photos on my flickr and Facebook fan pages

Blessings~

July 10, 2010 Middle River

2010-07-12T19:30:00.000-07:00

On Sunday July 10, 2010 the descendants of Ed and Ida Hanson met together in the Old Mill State Park in northern Minnesota. They were my grand parents, my mom's parents. We missed you the two cousins who were unable to attend but so enjoyed seeing faces we had not seen in many years. It was fun to catch up a little. I had not been to the park in many years and even tho some things had changed, they were yet familiar. Just like the sweet precious faces...changed yet so very dear and familiar.

Blessings~

July 8, 2010 Pincushions...

2010-07-08T20:43:00.001-07:00

July 8, 2010 Pincushions..., originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

From my little flower bed, two little pincushions smiling at the sun!

Find something to smile about today!

Blessings~

July 7, 2010 A lite snack!

2010-07-07T13:27:00.001-07:00

A lite snack!, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

A couple days ago I posted a pic of a bowl of gooseberries I had picked. Today I made some yummy jam. Just threw them in my Healthmaster Juicer and then cooked them up. It is very sweet but oh so yummy! Really good with the salty club cracker. Hope your day is full of sweet things!

Blessings~

July 6, 2010 My Day Lily

2010-07-06T19:54:00.001-07:00

My Day Lily, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

Another one of my day lilies, This one grows on the shady side of the house and has a pretty mauve hue. Photo taken in the shade.

Blessings~a

July 5, 2010 Bowl of Berries

2010-07-05T20:14:00.001-07:00

Bowl of Berries, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

I have three little gooseberry bushes in my back yard and I love to spend a sunny afternoon picking and cleaning the berries in my backyard. This small bowl is just the beginning and perhaps this year my birds will enjoy more of them then I will, we'll have to see! I remember my grandma Mabel had gooseberries and I believe she made pies, I've only made jam. Tastes pretty good on toast come winter! They are good raw and just tonight I put some in my fruit smoothie, yum!

Blessings~

June 13, 2010 Moss Rose

2010-07-02T20:41:00.001-07:00

Moss Rose, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

This little beauty is in a hanging basket in my front flower bed. Love Moss Roses and the bright pinks are my favorites. A summer pic! Tried it in the Black and White just to see what it would look like. I still like the pink! What do you think?

Blessings as you enjoy your summer!

June 12, 2010 Barn and Silo

2010-07-01T20:00:00.001-07:00

Barn and Silo, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

We stopped in a couple little towns in SD between Huron and DeSmet. This great old barn and beautiful Silo were just on the edge of town. Loved the little red tractor peeking out the door!

Blessings

June 11, 2010 A Bakers Dozen

2010-07-01T11:06:00.001-07:00

June 11, 2010 A Bakers Dozen, originally uploaded by pictureapromise.

We walked all around the lake near the Capitol building, we saw the governors mansion, took pics of the capitol from across the lake, enjoyed gardens and sculpture but most of all we enjoyed the ducks! The lake is fed by a warm sulphurous artesian well. We could really smell the sulphur near the fountain at the memorial site. The ducks and geese stay all winter. There were only a few on this day but photos showed hundreds of birds on the warm open waters with snow all around. Kinda cool!

Blessings~

June 10, 2010 Pink Rose

2010-07-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

Near the grounds of the Capitol Building in Pierre was a small lake and Veteran's Memorial. We found these beautiful roses in the landscaping. I love roses....and this pretty pink.....

Blessings~

June 9, 2010 Peony in Pink

2010-06-30T14:14:00.000-07:00

Outside the capitol building in Pierre were some beautiful gardens. These Peonies were just about done. So pretty and they smelled wonderful!

Blessings~

June 8, 2010 Something Grand

2010-06-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

On our way back to ND we had to make a couple stops, these old bones don't like riding for more than so long. Barb suggested we go thru Pierre the state capitol. We got there just before the building closed so took a really quick look around. It was beautiful. I would love to visit every state capitol building in the US. I fell in love with the grand architecture!

Blessings~

June 7, 2010 Carved in Stone

2010-06-30T06:13:00.000-07:00

We did it! Barb and I hiked up Crazy Horse Mountain and stood out on the end of his pointing arm. The trip up and back was a 10k march. We do take our time, take lots of pics, enjoy the scenery, and experience the entire journey. We saw lovely wildflowers, stands of pine and birch, and even a mountain goat up behind the face you see in the photo! And of course people, lots of people in every size, age, and physical condition. We met an interesting lady who when finished had "only" 350 10k volksmarches stamped in her book. She was mid to late 70's. She and her son walked up the mountain together. There was a girl scout troop, families with strollers ( I wouldn't recommend that) and an elderly couple that slowly shuffled up the mountain holding hands. I saw a young father carrying his tiny infant and a another family whose dad had his guitar and would play and sing for us as we hiked. The volksmarch takes place once a year, the first full weekend in June. You can hike up either Saturday or Sunday or both if you're so inclined. No entrance fee those days for marchers just some food for the food pantry. If you'd like to know more about Crazy Horse Monument, history and so forth check out the website http://www.crazyhorsememorial.org/monument/

Blessings~

June 6, 2010 A Little Texture

2010-06-29T16:08:00.000-07:00

Hen and Chicks we saw in a flower bed in Custer SD converted to Black and White

Blessings!

June 5, 2010 Tulips

2010-06-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

After our hike up Crazy Horse Mountain we spent the rest of the afternoon experiencing the rest of the complex. We looked thru the museums and buildings capturing it all with our cameras. It will take me some time to get thru them all! Of all the things we see it seems I am always most drawn to nature, to the beauty only God can create. These pretty tulips we found nestled between two buildings tucked away from most peoples eyes. Glad our goal is to experience the whole of the places Barb and I visit. Most people rush thru and miss so much. I'm glad I get to share them with you!

Blessings~

June 4, 2010 Honey~

2010-06-29T05:53:00.001-07:00

After a long drive we needed to stop and stretch so we decided to check out Keystone SD. It was kinda raining so we walked from to shop to shop there were some older buildings and an historic train ( we only say the tracks and the depot was a shop). These pretty columbine or honeysuckle as we called them as kids were growing outside the depot. I had never seen one in these colors, they were so big and beautiful! Hope you enjoy it!

Blessings~

June 3, 2010 Bleeding Hearts

2010-06-28T14:33:00.000-07:00

Not only did we see beautiful butterflies and exotic tropical plants, we saw beautiful flowers too. These caught my eye with the red contrasting against the white. I was not familiar with these but the sign said Bleeding Hearts. Not like the ones I buy at the greenhouse. They were so lovely and delicate. How wonderful to visit environments different than the ones we live in day to day!

Blessings~

June 2, 2010 Giant Leaves

2010-06-28T06:29:00.000-07:00

In addition to all the beautiful butterflies in the Butterfly House, we enjoyed a myriad of beautiful, lush plants. This one was huge!

Blessings~

June 1, 2010 Butterfly Kisses

2010-06-27T19:18:00.000-07:00

My sis in law and I stopped to see my son in Sioux Falls SD and we all went to the Sertoma Butterfly House. We spent several hours enjoying the butterflies from all over the world and pursuing them with our cameras! Well Barb and I did, the kids walked thru and then had to wait for us! Several times they would flit past and I could feel their wings brush against my cheek. Butterfly kisses for me! Great place to visit if you are ever in Sioux Falls!

Blessings~

May 31, 2010 Hidden Treasures

2010-06-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

When photographing my roses I was startled by a morning dove flying out of my grapevines. Careful not to touch the vines I got close enough to see a nest with eggs nestled in among the leaves and vines. So exciting to find little treasures! Hope you find something today!

Blessings~

May 30, 2010 A Rose is a Rose

2010-06-27T09:25:00.000-07:00

My rose bush was covered in beautiful fragrant blooms this year. My grandma had one of these as did my mom. (mine is a shoot from hers). They fade too quickly and are a reminder to stop today and smell the roses. If we wait til later we might miss out! Find something today to enjoy!

Blessings!

May 29, 2010 Gazer

2010-06-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

A new addition to my flower bed this year the Stargazer Lily. So beautiful, so fragrant! I will enjoy these for years to come! Blessings~

May 28, 2010 Petals

2010-06-26T13:49:00.000-07:00

I love my flower gardens and although I don't spend a lot of time weeding and tending I am blessed with blossoms thru out the summer. The beautiful gerba daisy I plant every spring and their bright petals smile at me all summer! I probably spend more time taking pictures than I do weeding but... oh well!

Blessings~

May 27, 2010 What do you do with your worn jeans?

2010-06-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

Some people patch with them, some people quilt or craft with them, some people throw them away and some people give them to me! This rug and 4 place mats were custom made for someone using the families worn jeans. Sometimes I get not just jeans but tshirs, sweats shirts, sheets and blankets and I weave something useful from it for them. Other times people clean their closets and I weave rugs for myself, for gifts and for sale. It's fun turning a bag of old clothes fit only for the garbage into something beautiful useful and environmentally friendly! So what do you do with your old jeans?

Blessings!

May 25, 2010 Blooming Where I'm Planted

2010-06-26T06:46:00.000-07:00

I've been growing succulents for years. The reason, I tend to neglect watering and care and they are hard to kill! They rarely bloom for me, only twice before have I had blooms and they were tall spikey things with tiny little flowers. When I walked into the living room I couldn't believe my eyes! This poor neglected plant ( you can see that it is missing leaves along the stem by the planter) was blooming! In spite of difficult circumstances it flowered. Perhaps because of the circumstances! Reminds me of the little saying "Bloom where you're planted". And then I am challenged....do I bloom where I'm planted or wish I was somewhere else, different job, different house, different financial situation, different location, city or state, different body, different talents and on and on....... I have been given so much, beautiful home, wonderful family, a job where I have summers off, a love of creativity, beautiful sunsets, health, freedom, salvation. With a heart that recognizes and is thankful for the blessings I can thrive and blo0m where I'm planted. So can you!

May 24, 2010 Now Where Did I Put Those Keys?

2010-06-25T10:38:00.000-07:00

Some days I feel like this Pelican, perched on a rock with water swirling all about me. Unlike the pelican and the turtles, I can't fly and I can't swim! I'm stuck sometimes in one place looking for answers from myself. Instead I need to lift my head and look for answers from the One who has all the answers. He even knows all the questions before we even ask!

Blessings~

May 23, 2010 Simplicity

2010-06-25T06:24:00.001-07:00

I love the majesty and grandeur of the mountains and the tranquility of a quiet lake at sunset. I am awed by the endlessness of the ocean and the fireworks of a summer storm. I often wish I lived somewhere else than the flat farming community of the Red River Valley. I took a walk thru a wildlife "sanctuary" with my sis in law and was reminded that there is beauty in the everyday if we but take the time to look for it, to expect it. I saw no mountains or lakes or oceans, no tall tall trees or exotic wildlife. I saw ducks and geese, swamps (walked thru some of them!) and birds. I came away physically tired but spiritually and mentally refreshed. All because I took a walk in my own back yard with my eyes open expecting to find beauty. What's in your backyard?
Blessings~

May 22, 2010 Peace be Still

2010-06-25T06:08:00.000-07:00

After an extended abscence, I'm back! I never intended to be gone so long, but habits are like that. I got out of the habit due to traveling and such. I miss taking photos every day, I miss blogging and I miss those of you who read and comment. I took this in late May when I went to visit my sis in law in SD. That weekend storms tore up parts of central SD and ND with heavy rains, winds and even some hail if I remember right. We were blessed to have missed it all! The heavens declare the glory of God! What looks to be grand cloud formations are but little bits of cotton in the creators hand. The richest colors we see will be pastel in comparison to what our eyes will behold in heaven and the wind, lightning or the storms of life are all under the control of the Master who says to the storm "Peace be still" and the wind and waves obey! Storms can cause us to fear, help me Father to look past my fear and see your hand at work.
Blessings~

As I play catch up, I will post the date the photo was taken

May 6, 2010 Lily Love

2010-05-08T11:46:00.001-07:00

Found two pretty lilies for two wonderful moms for Mother's Day. Took advantage of the beauties being in my home for a few days and took a few shot. I love Lilies, they are fascinating! I'm so thankful for my mom and I love her! Thankful for her mom and my dad's mom and my cousins mom and my hubby's mom too. Each one has blessed me. God put lot's of moms in my life to teach me, encourage me, challenge me and even occasionally chide and guide me. If you have a mom or moms in your life that has blessed you, let them know this weekend how much you appreciate them. Blessings~

May 5, 2010 White Throated Sparrow

2010-05-08T11:40:00.000-07:00

Another of my spring visitors, the White Throated Sparrow, would not pause for a second so I could get a good clear shot. He was constantly moving and scratching and pecking. Love them tho. I believe I've ID'd him properly, if I'm mistaken please set me straight!
Blessings

May 4, 2010 Spring Visitor

2010-05-08T11:27:00.000-07:00

I've been waitng for these guys, the White Crowned Sparrow as well as the White Throated Sparrow and the Harris Sparrow. They are finally here! The first time I saw the Harris Sparrow was maybe 8 years ago. My parents were visiting and it was my dad's birthday May 10th. Every year since I start looking for them a week or so before.... around the 1st of May. They never disappoint me! Welcome back my little friends. Blessings~

May 3, 2010 Robin Egg Blue

2010-05-07T18:13:00.001-07:00

Today on my walk the sun was shining so I took my camera along. Glad I did! As i got close to the tree that mama robin has her nest in, she flew to a higher branch. I carefully moved in close tot he nest and to my delight I found that she has 4 pretty blue eggs in her nest! I am so excited that I will get to watch the progress of mama robin and her little babies! Praying the Father who sees the sparrow fall will keep mama, her eggs and future baby birds safe from harm. Blessings~

May 2, 2010 Morning, Dove

2010-05-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

Just outside my patio door, the graceful, gentle doves scratch beneath the feeders looking for something to eat. I love to hear their song. They are always welcome at my feeders!
Blessings~