Some Close Up Shots

This is an exposure of the blood banana plant, the same one that was so tattered and torn by the wind storm a couple weeks ago. It has recovered quite a bit. I gave it some added color in Photoshop. All the shots in today's post were made with the Canon 100mm f/2.8 Macro lens, a terrific lens for the money.

This plant will be blooming before long. Then I'll find out what it's name is.

The Tin Man was quietly watching over his subjects. He's really cool under pressure, though there wasn't any pressure today.

I like this stuff. All this is growing in one of the smallest pots on the patio. It looks like a forest on another planet, or something like that.

Much Needed Rain

We had some wonderful, steady rain today, soaking into the ground and provided all the trees and shrubs a delicious drink. Didn't hurt the plantings on the patio, either.

Another daft pigeon on the patio. If you can think of anything positive to say about pigeons, please add it to the comments. To me, they're feathered rats.

After my very brief session shooting under the patio canopy, this fake cardinal looked warm and comfy in the lobby compared to the gray chill dampness of the wet patio. So, I made a quick exposure.

People on the Patio

Onnalee, an award-winning watercolor painter. Also, our Property Manager, with husband Robert, for umpteen-odd years.


Took a wide angle lens up on the roof. I'm terrified of heights, don't know why I did this.


I used a full CTO gel on the flash for this image...should have gone with a half-cut.


Stephen and Lula. They are interesting in having a formal portrait done. Might have to oblige them.


Danette, who has the Gift of Small Talk, in spades.

Brad with Mr. Persona Non Grata, according to the management.

New Pool for the Patio

John and Pat supervise the filling of the new pool. This one is more than a Foot Cooler. I could come down at midnight on a sultry July night with my girlfriend and have some fun with this pool...if I had a girlfriend.


The Tin Man, I call him. He's been out here for years, getting a little rustier with each season. I picture him as a poet in his former life.


Joe was also hanging out this evening.


Pat engaged a little American Consumerism this afternoon. Way to contribute to the GDP, Pat!