Although the weather was exceptionally dreary–it was still fun to visit Marin Headlands and search for birds.  Above, a Great Blue Heron swallows a tasty morsel.  He was on alert!

On guard...

Was a treat to view such a majestic bird, so couldn’t resist a view more shots…

Along the shore

Hunting...eyes searching

Closer to town…it was low tide and birds were everywhere! Just amazing to see so many every which way you looked.

Tall and Proud

Saw new birds to me…Long-billed Curlew fluffing it up–not as clear as I would like, but fun shot!

Shake and fluff

Wasn’t really a down pour, just drizzly and spitting, no wonder a fluffing was necessary!

Another glimpse

There were also some Black-necked Stilts close to shore.

Long legs and reflections

Another view…what?  I did say closer to town…guess I meant IN town!

This is really a great birding location and shopping too.  What more could a girl want?

A special thanks and shout out to @BirdGalAlcatraz who shared knowledge and locations with me. Simply brilliant and fabulous at bird identification.   A fun day–despite the weather!  I will just have to go back again when the sun is out, not such a hardship after all! 

I did learn…it is much harder to shoot birds–they move without warning!  Will use a tripod next time and experiment with exposure compensation.  Think that’s what I appreciate most–loving the moment and learning all the time:)

Down River

Exciting to explore in new places…found a new curve to the American River at a nearby park, William B. Pond.

We have had exceptionally warm weather lately and many seem to flock to these waters when it’s hot.  Was most impressed with a person managing the waters and rocks in high heels!

Umbrella and Heels

Am certain if I ever tried that, I’d be in the river for sure!

Look forward to visiting again–vast space with great rocks.

Swift and Slow

Wide View

Another umbrella person, but no heels and dog on leash.  Must admit–couldn’t walk my dogs in bare feet along/in river–or we’d all be wet! 

Just a branch!

Having lived in the northwest–Pullman, WA and midwest–Martinsville, IN.  fall is a different time of year in sunny California.  In Sacramento, we do have some trees that change color and drop leaves–just have to be patient with them.  We also have had a really mild summer followed by a heat spell in September.  So much, I have bulbs coming up, might have some October Tulips!  Clearly–they are confused.

Visited William Pond Park again, which borders the American River and searched high and low for some fall color.  Here is what I found!

Leaves of Three...

Heart on the Ground

Just a Touch of Color

Lighting The Way

 

Be Patient with Me!

 

Was really quite a warm day out today and lovely along the river.  Look forward to sharing the progress of fall with you…

About an hour from Sacramento lies an area rich in soil for growing grapes and flowers.  The Amador Flower Farm held its Fall Festival this weekend.  Decided it was worth a trek to visit the outskirts of the town, Plymouth.  Mapquested the address and ventured on!  The directions got us close to the location…after a few miles of wondering country roads as the only car with vultures circling above–we decided we had taken a wrong turn!  Retraced our path and ventured left instead of right as Mapquest had indicated and did make it! 

The specialty of this farm is Daylillies with 14 acres and the selection was overwhelming.  The folks working were knowledgable and very helpful.  Whimsical garden decorations were amidst flowers…paths were well maintained.  

Garden Friends

We were experiencing summer like weather, so I wore my sandals for the drive and planned to change into tennis shoes once we arrived.  Was quite surprised when I looked in my car and did not find my shoes–oh well, figured I’d be fine…and then saw this! 

Good to know!

Seriously wished I had better footwear, but decided I would look for rattlesnakes and photo the display garden anyway! 

Bee resting

Many of the flowers were past their prime…but the area was still lovely with views. 

Near the pond

A bit of clouds

Beyond the road

Rich lawn and vines

All Alone

A bit of life left

My favorites of the day were these bright and sunny flowers–so I took a few shots! 

Still Lovely

Another view

Bee Centered

Also took my wide angle lens which I don’t use often. With Nikon introducing the 24mm prime lens and seeing the wonderful results over the past few weeks–decided I need to work more with my 14-24mm. 

Pink Dahlia

Followed this butterfly through the garden area and realized I was not looking for rattlesnakes!  Preoccupied–have yet to get a decent photo of a colorful butterfly.  Handheld with 70-300mm, little soft–but decided to share it anyway… 

Soft Butterfly

Will look forward to another visit next spring when flowers are really in bloom AND wear the proper shoes!

Shadows

Visited our local Aerospace Museum in North Highlands, California to view a Star Trek Exhibit on loan from the Smithsonian Museum.  A few years ago, I attended another showing and was a bit disappointed–so this time, was ready for anything!  Sadly–no photos were allowed in the Star Trek Exhibit.  They did have photographers that would take your photo in the Captain’s Chair or at the Transformer Place –what was it called when they were “beamed” up to another location?  All I remember is, “Beam me up, Scotty!”  I refrained from having my photo taken–will just remember the moment instead!! ($14.95 for a 5×7)  

The information in the exhibit covered numerous Star Trek showings and had so much to read– enjoyed the history–much, I was not aware of.  The highlight for me was the showing of clips from the Star Trek TV shows–showcasing each of the stars with their outfit properly displayed alongside.  I did enjoy the sets that were shared, but longed to be able to photograph.  So, I visited the main hanger with various planes shown and parts… with my Nikon! 

Wide View

Colorful Parts

In addition to the indoor planes–there were a few out on the tarmac…  

Happy little plane–complete with smile!  

This museum is part of an old base –which still has some air traffic from the Coast Guard–these planes are visible many times a day.  Not quite sure what coast they are visiting.

Coast is Clear!

Another popular plane–just had our annual air show a few weekends ago!

Blue Angel

Helicopter Cockpit

 Another event on Saturday was visiting the Founder’s Day Celebration at the Carmichael Park.  Breezed through a showing of old cars–my favorite was a 1953 Rolls Royce Limo–original.  The owner was getting offers of $100K as overheard by visitors…what a labor and passion of love–the details were exquisite.  Right down to the Grey Poupon Mustard!  

Mustard Anyone?

Not to mention the interesting view of a tailgate–could this be where the concept for a “Tailgate Party” started?  Amazing!!  

Tailgate Party, anyone?

Have visited other car shows and have very little prior knowledge–but what struck me the most with this show were the details showcasing the time of the car.  If anyone remembers, Bob’s Big Boy–this will take you back.  Was a big deal to go out there when I was growing up.  

Bob's Big Boy in Alhambra--good times!

Another replica of the same make and model was displayed on the back of the car.  Amazing details!!  

Wanna go for a ride?

What I appreciate about photography is being able to shoot photos of things that are not, “my norm”.  No stitch of nature and landscape this weekend–but enjoyed trying various settings to capture what I thought might be worthy to share.  Out of element–but fun just the same!!

Now known as Cavallo Point

Have had the pleasure to share photos from my July trip to the Bay Area, just not yet where we stayed.  Not far from the Marin County town of Sausalito is an Army base, Fort Baker.  The army base has a new name… Cavallo Point–the Lodge at Golden Gate.  Fort Baker lies at the Northern passage of The Golden Gate Bridge and is surrounded by the Marin Headlands.  A lovely setting to visit and photograph. 

The previous Officer quarters have been divided into rooms and can house a number of people under the same roof.  Each room is independent and has own bathroom.  (Important amenity for me, I must admit!)  The common areas include covered porch with lovely sitting areas throughout the entire facility. 

Divided into individual rooms

In addition to being housed near the Golden Gate Bridge, another fabulous vantage point is the view of San Francisco.  We visited late July and got to enjoy the summer fog.  Even though–the view from our porch was breath-taking!  To be quite honest, the majority of these photos were taken from right in front of the house where the room was.  Spent the day touring Alcatraz and visiting Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf–not much energy to carry more gear around.  Fortunately–there was much to see and enjoy without going far! 

Travis Marina below Bunkers

Another view.. 

A distant Coit tower

Palace of Fine Arts

Think you know you are in a good spot when you see tour buses arriving to take in the view of The City and the Golden Gate Bridge…do love the line of geese on the field below the row of tour bus riders! 

Worked for me!

This is one of the views from where the buses kept coming in–had to investigate! 

Background...Golden Gate Bridge

The main lodge has a spa, restaurant and additional housing. 

View from our porch...

A perfect spot for special occasions… 

View from a far

The grounds were lovely–rich with flowers and bird friends… 

A bit of a breeze...

Still overcast in SF

Colors add so much

Hold Fast & Steady

 This tree was directly in front of the house… 

On the lookout

Popular tree for birds!

With the vast field in the center of the fort–there were many animals that visited–we saw deer, geese, squirrels–but the most abundant and determined where these Blackbirds. 

Continually looking for food!

One that was not shy and finally let me get close! 

Posing for the camera

 Managed a short walk for a night view of The City… 

Want some chocolate?

Coit Tower Night View 

See the lights?

A Ferry crossing the bay…

Ferry and City View

This area is so rich in history.  We met a gentleman visiting his former base and also a member of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy. He shared stories about being stationed here in the 1970’s and also his passion for the natural area surrounding Fort Baker–The Marin Headlands.  Can understand his interest and return trips to this area–I long to go back and take advantage of the beauty and park lands, preferably when there is sunshine! 

Birds sunning on rocks

Labor Day Weekend was not quite the weekend I had planned.  Got up early on Sunday to go visit The American River Parkway only to realize my yearly park pass had expired on 8/31/10. On Monday, armed with a new pass good until 9/30/11, I headed to William B. Pond Park.  It is only about 20 minutes from my house and am so thankful the Labor Day rafting crowds got me out of my comfort zone and caused me to explore new surroundings.   

There were no maps available when I drove in with my new pass shining from the rear view mirror. So, my exploration began!   

Where does this go?

There were many folks out enjoying our unseasonably cool weather and most had fishing poles!   

I was thrilled when I found a little puddle and wondered what the slapping noise was, so ventured closer.   

The noise drew me closer...

The noise was the sound of Polliwogs frantically swimming at the puddles shallow edge–sadly, the wrong direction for survival.  While I was stooped over, out of the corner of my eye, I saw a fluttering and noticed there were dragonflies zooming around.  They would dart through the reeds chasing one another and finally land on a reed.    

Identification is so welcome.  Checked Flickr and Googled Dragonflies–overwhelming.  Think I need to go back to insect anatomy first, then look again!  Too impatient to post this than spend the time needed to ID. Please forgive me, so appreciate those who have knowledge to share!  Special thanks and acknowledgment for @Bosque_Bill for sharing IDs. Feel fortunate to be part of a community with folks who support one another–kudos and gratitude for helping me learn more about nature! Below, a photo of a Common Whitetail. 

Wind blowing wings

Enjoying the sunshine

Pictured above, a Twelve-Spotted Skimmer, enjoying a break from darting around and teasing me.  I sat down and enjoyed their antics for quite some time.  What a fabulous first experience–fun to shoot, due to the fact, they were moving all about.  

Stable place to rest

Lush along the shore

 Two more views of a Twelve-Spotted Skimmer… 

Wings make an "X"

Tip top of reed

Next, decided to see what birds were enjoying the pond. Canadian Geese were on the other side and on the island.  While these birds…found a place to sun via rocks in the middle of the pond.   

Walking and standing on water!

City-fied and smart

 Clearly, the previous dragon, a Widow Skimmer is adaptable and has learned that the metal “reeds” are much sturdier than the green ones!   

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder"

So thankful my initial voyage caused me to look beyond a puddle in the dry dusty area below the levy and see the beauty beyond.   

I love when you learn as you explore and take photos. I “learned” I would really benefit from a longer lens…used a 70-300mm for these shots and then cropped to bring closer.  Guess I will have to do some research:)  Not too much of a hardship, at all!  My wish list is always growing!

The Golden Gate Bridge from Marin County side, Cavallo Point Pier Entrance 

Lately, I have been enjoying revisiting my pictures from a trip to San Francisco and Marin County late in July.  July is really not the ideal time for a trip to “The City” due to fog and cold.  Our weekend was no exception to this weather, as the shots will tell.

 We stayed at Cavallo Point Lodge, which was going to be my next blog topic…however, I became distracted with  images of The Golden Gate Bridge and decided to showcase this lovely icon alone. 

All images are taken from the Marin County side of the bridge…enjoy! 

From Cavallo Point Lodge

The buildings shown on the left bottom are the Coast Guard Station…what a lovely post to have!

Couldn’t resist this night shot–even though it was foggy as heck.  The fog was hovering around the bridge…

Just a glimpse

We watched tour buses pulling into the marina area below The Coast Guard Station and decided to investigate the next morning… 

Now, know why the buses were parking here, the view!

 Ever wonder what is really under the bridge? 

While enjoying the expansive view from the marina, decided for another view…Lensbaby Composer with Fisheye.  

A Little Lensbaby Fisheye Fun

Distance Perspective

I look forward to visiting this location again when the sun is shining…hopefully, that will be soon!

Welcome!

The nick name for Alcatraz, is “The Rock”.  There was no soil on “The Rock”–so, it was brought from a nearby location, “Angel Island”.  Angel Island was the West Coast equivalent to Ellis Island in the East, and still can be visited today. 

The brief history provided above and the  identification of buildings following, is based on a brochure published by Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, “Discover Alcatraz A Tour of the Rock.”  A great $1.00 investment to accompany the tour of the island.  

Apartments–current residents are the Sea Gull–and they are everywhere!   

This is the Guard Tower–imagine the 360 degree view must be stunning! 

Long forgotten bucket, with some flowers along the walk way to what was the Warden’s home. 

Clean up on aisle 9

Bet this fireplace was used a lot!  

Lighthouse–city side

View from in front of Warden's home

View from the Barracks/Apartments

Prison above the yard

And now…inside the cellhouse.  An audio tour is available and runs about 45 minutes.  I shared this shot to show the width of the aisle as well as the number of heads that are on the tour!  It is impressive to watch the number of visitors moving along the tour as the head phones guide you from location to another.  The number of visitors to Alcatraz is monitored each day–so if you plan on going, be sure to book early.  Another clever act, I imagine to limit your stay is the fact–no food is sold on the island.  Water for sale, but that’s all.  Gotta get back on the ferry to go get food. 

Audio Tour of Cellhouse

3 Floors, cells from top to bottom

Every cell had a number above the entry.

Shoes do show a bit of the era, don’t they? 

Heater important here!

 To anyone who has ever visited the San Francisco Bay Area–they can tell you how down right cold it can get, even in the middle of summer!  We visited at the end of July and did not see much sun at all. 

Not sure if these were fashioned after the real tins… 

To visit Alcatraz, visit www.nps.gov/alcatraz

One of the next posts will be of Cavallo Point–the fort built on the North side of The Golden Gate Bridge.  Now, Cavallo Point Lodge occupies the ideal setting and is a fabulous place to visit and stay.