Rain Drops on the Tulip

It was a damp morning and by the time we arrived at the garden the flowers were covered with rain drops.  Descanco Gardens in La Canada, CA is always beautiful rain or shine.


"Rain Drops on the Tulip"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Memorial Day

Today we need to remember all those men and women who have given so much to keep our country free.

"Memorial Day"     © Kathy Dunham 2011

Night Time in Vernazza

The small towns on the Cinque Terre in Italy are quaint and charming but at night they take on a different feel after the tourists are gone.  Quiet and peaceful, it's a pleasure to stroll the streets, stop at an outdoor cafe for a drink or coffee and enjoy the ambiance.


"Night Time in Vernazza"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Knock, Knock

Even though there's a door bell, I think you're going to have to use the door knocker.  It's apparent the bell has been painted over a time or two.

"Knock, Knock"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Rain Drops

Oriental Poppies are so dramatic and after they've been rained on they take on another look.  But it's the centers I love.  Especially the dark colors.

"Rain Drops"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Roman Amphitheater

Roman amphitheaters can be found all over Italy and in many European countries but this little treasure sits just below the hilltop town of Volterra in Tuscany.  Known for it's alabaster, the small town of Volterra has this hidden treasure that many tourists miss. In fact, many tourists miss seeing the town as it's quite small and a bit out of the way.  But I assure you that it is worth the visit.

"Roman Amphitheater"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Sunny Sunflowers

I know why Van Gogh liked to paint sunflowers.  At least I know why he should.  They are cheery, bright, make you smile and feel good.  And I bet you could come up with more reasons.  When I see sunflowers they always brighten my day.  I hope they have the same affect on you.

"Sunny Sunflowers"     © Kathy Dunham 2011

Flying Saucers

We've been having some extremely strong winds off and on for the past couple of weeks and sometimes we get these weird looking clouds. 

"Flying Saucers"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Let's Go this Way

Sarlat, France is known for it's Fois Gras, or as we Americans call it, goose liver pate.  But the French version is awesome.  In recognition of their fame, the town has erected these bronze geese in the heart of the old medevial section.  But they look a bit confused don't they?. 

"Let's Go This Way"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Birds or Orchids

I found these tiny (slightly bigger than my thumb) orchids on a country road in France.  Because of their size, I almost missed them.  And it wasn't until I reviewed my photos that I discovered the resemblance to a pair of flying birds. 

"Birds or Orchids"     © Kathy Dunham 2011

Purple Clematis

Another harbinger of spring, the clematis comes in various colors and shapes.  Singles, doubles, white, pinks and purples.  The intricate centers present an unusual texture and start to turn brown as they age.

"Purple Clematis"     © Kathy Dunham 2011

Lettres

The small town of Issiageac in the Dordogne region of France holds their "market" on Sundays and there's lots of things to see and buy.  But I like to take to the side streets when I find neat things like this letter drop. 

"Lettres"     © Kathy Dunham 2011

Not Derby Material

He may be beautiful but this not Kentucky Derby material.  He's a cow pony pure and simple and enjoys the finer things in life out in the country.

"Not Derby Material"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Looking Down the Forum

The Roman Forum reeks of history.  From Julius Caesar to the Vestal Virgins this was where it was happening in the old days of Rome.  And every time I walk down these streets I feel as if I'm transported back in time and can feel the energy of those who walked before me.

"Looking Down the Forum"     © Kathy Dunham 2011

White Lilacs

Most of think of purples and lavenders when lilacs are mentioned. However, there are white ones and they are stunning. I have to get up close and smell their wonderful fragrance to know they're lilacs. It just takes a little getting used to the idea of white flowers when I think about these fragrant beauties.

"White Lilacs"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Gondoliers at Night

Day or night, you can always find a gondola in Venice.  These are wearing the traditional outfit, black and white striped shirt and straw hat with ribbon trip.  Only problem is they usually take their hats off once they have a fare and are out in the canals.  Guess they don't want to lose it in the water.

"Gondoliers at Night"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Amaryllis

If you don't have a green thumb, then this is the plant for you.  One of the easiest growing flowers, the amaryllis can actually be grown in water.  There are special containers for growing them this way or you can plant them in soil and do it the old fashioned way.  I personally think that doing it in water is easiest.  And they are so dramatic when in bloom.  Ranging from whites to reds with a few pinks thrown in for good measure, amaryllis are strikingly beautiful.

"Amaryllis"        © Kathy Dunham 2011