Outside my door Jan. 1st, 2013

 The beauty in Northern California this time of year is truly spectacular. As a newcomer to the area, I so appreciate the vibrance and majesty found right outside my door on the grounds of Hilltop Farm & Studio, where I live & work in Granite Bay, CA. Here is what is on our grounds on January 1st, 2013.

Edibles can still be found this time of year. My cilantro is still growing....

as is my rosemary.....

                                                     
                                                                                                                            and mint.....

                    and lavender (yes, this is an edible)....

and one orange tree is ripe for harvest. 

Check back soon to see what else is happening at Hilltop Farm & Studio, my little slice of paradise.

Wild Child Outdoor Photo Camps

Even rainy weather can't dim the wonder of Beals Point at Folsom Lake SRA. As seen this morning. The show goes on at Wild Child Outdoor Photo Camps, regardless of the weather. Beauty is always present if you continually practice how to look.

Black & white toning is an in-camera editing option the campers learn to use.



This looked like a black & white photograph to me. Just the spot of red in the Stop sign gives it away.

Can you see the ripples in the puddle? Amazing to me, considering these photos are shot with my Blackberry mobile device. It produces far inferior quality images compared to the equipment I loan campers to use.

Turning the image into a Sepia tone is another skill campers learn with in-camera editing.

Encountered in the gutter walking to Beals Point (We live across the street from the Park.)

California Autumn

I have discovered my favorite season here in northern California: autumn. Hands-down, the most beautiful foliage I've seen in many years. Crisp and bright, the outdoors beckon with the promise of an enjoyable outdoor experience. The explosion of color is everywhere. I'm humbled, and thankful.

Welcome Baby Gianna!

A fellow Rotarian recently gave birth to the first baby born to any member of our club. This beautiful girl was less than a week old when we took these sweet images. Congratulations, Shauna & Ricky!