I realize that it’s winter here in Northern Illinois and that the only place to find something like this is in a greenhouse… which is exactly why I’m posting it. I caught this little beauty in Florida while visiting a friend, and it reminded me of a more exotic version of my Sun Salutation (tulip) from a few years ago. Check the archives and compare, if you like. =)

Recently I got to visit the zoo with a friend and her daughter (and the boys of course). The temperature was dropping all day, and these two lions were simply laying about staring across the enclosure at the open railing when I approached the plexiglass window to the side of their stony perches. The male stood up and wandered over and before I knew it, my solitude was shattered as a crowd of excited people pressed me into a corner between fake rock, plexiglass and a sea of humanity. The lion looked as bewildered as I felt and I think maybe we connected for a split second. It was amazing to see the wonder in all the children’s faces reflected on top of his own.

So I’ve posted it green, and I’ve posted it blooming… this is what happens to Lunaria in the fall, when it dries. Actually, the silver dollars/moons are covered with dried husks after the green sheaths around them die. You have to very gently rub them off with thumb and forefinger to reveal the beautiful dried plant. One of my favorite plants, all year round!

Well, maybe not so little. We won’t be seeing any of these guys for a while, since the cold weather is finally settling in. Already I miss the green forest and all it’s critters. At least I have pictures of all the life I haven’t uploaded yet. Maybe I can sustain myself for a little while with images.

Just like any other couple, my husband and I sometimes have disagreements. One thing I’ve always loved about him, however, is that sometime later (sometimes WAY later, but still) he does something to make me feel better. This time it was one of my favorite flowers. Now if he’ll just help me buy this camera I used…

Welcome to www.marydiamond.com! I really meant to get more pictures of fall leaves before they all fell. Unfortunately, my procrastination has taken all the colors from me. These seed-laden dried plants were really cool close-up.

I took the boys for a walk in the forest, and with a newly borrowed Canon Eos 20D snapped a few autumn shots. This here bumble bee found the last few flowers to collect from and I got a few goodies from his efforts… my GOD I love this camera.

This little guy is just one of the many visitors my sunflower received every morning. Come to think of it, I should be harvesting seeds right now…

I recently visited a good friend in Florida. Fortunately, we both appreciate the quiet moments in life and we found the time to visit a fairly low-traffic beach. I had my Canon Powershot with me, but be prepared… I’ll soon be posting some experimental fun with a digital SLR!