Fluffy

Day 213/366

I love the fluffy fibers that top off this wildflower.

Brushstrokes

Day 212/366
Another gorgeous summer sunset. The clouds looked like bold brush strokes across the sky.

Ruffles and Curls

Day 211/366
This variety of daylily has such vibrant reds and oranges. Each petal is different, with little ruffles and curls to admire.

In the Garden

Day 210/366
Let's play a game... Can you guess what plant this is growing in the garden?

Ethereal Beauty

Day 209/366
Queen Anne's Lace in black and white looks very ethereal.

Chasing Rainbows

Day 208/366
I was playing around with one of my Lensbaby optics and I discovered how to create a fun rainbow flare if the light is entering the frame at just the right position. I love that pop of color and it's always fun to develop new techniques with my gear.

Painted Sky

Day 207/366
We were treated to a beautiful display at sunset. The clouds were so wispy and vibrant... and it just got better the longer we waited and watched. I also love that little sliver of a moon in the sky, not wanting to be left out.

Echinacea

Day 206/366
There are so many wild flowers in bloom right now and purple cone flowers are one of my favorites.

Gratitude

Day 205/366
The flowers know to give thanks at the end of the day, watching the lovely sunset fade from view.

The Wave

Day 204/366
Can you spot the little spider waving hello? I didn't even notice him when I was taking pictures of this new-to-me flower at Donald Park. When I looked at the pictures for editing, I was surprised to find this tiny photo bomber!

In the Pasture

Day 203/366
I set out for a drive to see if I could capture the sunset, cruising down country roads, trying to find a scenic view. Unfortunately, the clouds didn't cooperate, hanging too low on the horizon to let much of the sun peek through. On my drive, however, I spotted these clouds to the east. The color and clouds, along with the cows that were settling into the pasture after milking, caught my eye. It wasn't the image I set out to take, but I love the rolling hills with the crops and livestock. A very iconic Wisconsin summer scene.

All the Frills

Day 202/366
Queen Anne's lace is abundant right now. I love the frilly, delicate, micro flowers that make up the larger bloom. Fun fact: another name for Queen Anne's lace is wild carrot.

Dilly Dally Daylily

Day 201/366

Garden Weather

Day 200/366
The garden is definitely thriving in this hot and humid weather. Meanwhile, I'll be in the pool.

First Flight

Day 199/366
Jevin had a turn flying the new drone tonight. He makes it look really easy! I asked him what he thought about the flight, and he said it was fun... and he was glad that he only hit one tree.

Bell's Honeysuckle

Day 198/366
I love it when the light shines through the berries on these shrubs. They look like tiny jewels glowing in the light. After a quick Google search, I discovered this plant is called Bell's Honeysuckle and even though the vibrant red and orange berries aren't edible, they are easy to admire.

Flowers Within

Day 197/366
The center of this flower is made up of teeny tiny flowers!

Dancing Flowers

Day 196/366

Stargazing

Day 195/366
Weather conditions were favorable for us to view the comet Neowise for two nights in a row. Last night, the comet was much lower on the horizon and harder to see with the naked eye. We took several long-exposure pictures and were amazed at how clearly you could view the comet in the images. We decided to return to Brigham Park tonight and see if we could view it again, this time coming prepared with binoculars and more camera equipment. We arrived earlier and it took a little time, but we were able to view it again. The comet was much higher in the sky and the tail appeared longer. The first night, Enavi really struggled to see it (mostly because she wasn't wearing her glasses) but tonight she was able to see it clearly through the binoculars. Such a fun and exciting treat to see and share with our family, and the comet was just astounding. God's creation is truly amazing!

Through the Leaves

Day 194/366
Just look at those beautiful eyes, peeking through the trailing leaves! I had this photo idea when I went for a walk around the yard and found these leaves cascading over tree branches and I spotted the sweet little white flowers. Enavi was kind enough to be my model - she is so patient with me when I get these crazy, creative picture ideas. I absolutely love the end result, and I think her eyes are especially compelling in this portrait.

Soft Focus

Day 193/366

All In

Day 192/366
I caught this little guy hard at work. He's covered in pollen and he's taking his job very seriously, not distracted at all by the lady with the camera.

Imperfection

Day 191/366
Sometimes it's the imperfections that create beauty. This lily had one petal that didn't open properly and I loved the curves and interesting shape it created... perfectly imperfect.

Picking Blackcaps

Day 190/366
The blackcaps are ripe and ready for the picking. We picked two large bowls full of berries, a perfect topping on ice cream sundays. It was hot and sweaty work, but we jumped in the pool when we were done.

White Campion II

Day 189/366
White campion, after the rain.

Seed Umbrella

Day 188/366
This giant dandelion is know as yellow salsify or Tragopogon dubius. The seed head has such lovely detail! The contrast of the hard lines of the spines and soft, feather-like fluff is just beautiful. I think the individual seeds look just like an inverted umbrella.

Damselfly

Day 187/366
A colorful damselfly is taking a little rest before carrying on with his day.

4th of July Fireworks

Day 186/366
Happy 4th of July!

Bounding Blossoms

Day 185/366
These pretty flowers grow abundantly along the lake shore as ground cover. I love seeing all of the purple and white blooms, especially in the late afternoon light.

Sparkler Celebration

Day 184/366
We're kicking off our 4th of July celebration a little early with some sparklers at sunset.

Delicate Details

Day 183/366
A perfectly preserved water droplet on this humble, delicate flower.