Freestone Park, Gilbert, Az

 Lori, JC and I went to Freestone Park with the Monte Vista Photoclub to shoot some birds.   Compared to the Riparian which we frequently visit for the birds, Freestone is much smaller with paved paths and some fountains, waterfalls and foliage which provide some good background for shots.  

We keep finding new places to visit. 

Birds in flight are so difficult.  Background is a bit messy but finally got one in focus. 

Bad hair day

Cormorants are great to shoot.  They are slow moving and are great posers.

Where the expression "Like water off the ducks back" came from. 

  

Tempe Blooms

On Saturday Lori and I took a drive to Tempe to take in the Tempe Blooms festival.  Sue and Barb came with us and I wandered taking some candid shots while they took in the kiosks and floral displays.

 

Arizona Railway Museum

 Lori and I took a drive out to the Arizona Railway Museum and spent the morning walking through old railway cars and talking to the docents who volunteer their time restoring the cars and engines.  

Lost Goldmine Hike

 Before Christmas we took Barry and Kelly for their first desert hike.  It is their second year as snowbirds and figured it was time to test their metal.  They did great.  No contact with any Jumping Cholla cactus.  We even found a rattle on the trail that once belonged to a rattlesnake.  No sign of the snake.