Yearly Archives: 2005
Rusty, Trusty Tractor
The fields that this old tractor worked in are long gone. She may lean a little, but she is still a powerhorse.
Unwilling participant
While watching my sister’s dog, Mitzi, over the weekend, I wanted to take some shots of her. She was less than thrilled with the idea. After tracking her through the house, I cornered her on the bed, trying to get under the covers. After a few quick shots, I let her have her peace.
End of summer…
This globe is called the “dandelion clock”, and blowing it apart is a popular pastime for children. The name dandelion is a derivation of the Old French, dent-de-lion, literally “lion’s tooth” on account of the sharply lobed leaves of the plant. The dandelion root is a registered drug in Canada, sold as a diuretic. A leaf decoction can be drunk to “purify the blood”, for the treatment of anemia, jaundice, and also for nervousness. The milky latex can be used as a mosquito repellent. Also, a dye can be obtained from the roots of the plant. A dandelion’s milk, when applied to warts, can help get rid of them without damaging the surrounding skin. They still cost me money every year to get rid of them from my yard.
Susan, Meet Bug
Any Entomologists out there? Never seen this insect before. The Black-Eyed Susan is probably the most common of all American wildflowers. The characteristic brown, domed center is surrounded by bright yellow ray florets. The state flower of Maryland.
Not So Busy Bee
This bumble bee takes a break on my sundial. Do bees have unions, cause this one sat there for at least 15 minutes as I took pictures of different flowers and insects in the garden. Guess it pays to know somebody on the inside ;)
Friends
2 Germans and a praying mantis. Jessi and Svea are exchange students from the past year. The praying mantis survives by using camouflage, I don’t think tie-die colors are the best solution for this one! Praying mantis are the only insect that turn from side to side in a full 180-degree angle. Their eyes are sensitive to the slightest movement up to 60 feet away. These 2 German students exhibited similar techniques when cute boys would walk pass. Nice to see we are still learning from Mother Nature.
Cincinnati Sunset
The sun setting in Cincinnati, Ohio with the Ohio River in the foreground. Another image from the old Fujifilm MX-700.
Franklin Park Conservatory
An older shot of the conservatory in Franklin Park, Columbus, Ohio. This was taken with my old Fujifilm MX-700, my first digital camera.