"Adelaide and Beyond'

The Last Of The Lotus Flowers.....

2012-02-27T22:30:00.000+10:30

~ Nelumbo Nucifera ~

As we bid goodbye to the season of summer
we also say good bye to the beautiful and fragrant sacred lotus
which have been flowering in our Botanic Gardens
over the preceeding few months.

One by one the last of the petals will fall
only to return again to beautify our world in the springtime.

This is my contribution to
"Our World Tuesday"

Bouquet or Bokeh........

2012-02-27T06:15:00.000+10:30

I know some of you have mastered the art of Bokeh (Bokashi) Photography
and so at a country wedding I attended on the weekend
I had the perfect opportunity to try out a little Bokeh on a bouquet!!

~ Candlelight and David Austin Roses ~

Not Bokeh ~ but just because I liked it.

Red Boat On The Lake.....

2012-02-25T07:30:00.000+10:30

Most weekends Mawson Lake has it's share of
remote control yachts - fortunately for me this morning
the wind was down which was perfect for reflections
but I don't think it was as fortunate for the yacht owners
~ no wind in the sails ~

Linking with
James' Weekend Reflections

Twilight Time At The Port......

2012-02-23T19:30:00.000+10:30

~ Looking west towards the Port River Bridge from McLaren Wharf ~

It was an evening just like any other evening - nothing spectacular
until the sun started dipping below the horizon - everything changed
and the world took on another hue
one of blues and pinks and golds

Viewed through the rigging of the sail training ship
"The One And All"

This is my contribution to
"Skywatch Friday"

Figs Bagels & Wigs......

2012-02-23T07:30:00.000+10:30

Adelaide's Central Market is always a buzz
with it's eclectic mix of fruits, vegetables, bagels and wigs ..
plus old book stands where you can pick up much read tattered
versions of Flaubert's Madame Bovary or Jeffry Archer's
"Not a penny more - not a penny less"

Ship Ahoy #2 .............

2012-02-20T22:00:00.002+10:30

~A replica of Captain Cook's ship The Endeavour ~

As night falls and the lights come on
I was amazed to see the massive amount of ropes,
rigging and other necessary nautical equipment
on this meticulously replicated ship

Land ahoy ....Can you imagine climbing these
rope ladders on high seas with gale force winds.

Not for the faint hearted ... to be sure!

"I had ambition not only to go farther then any man had ever been before,
but as far as it was possible for a man to go"
~ Captain James R Cook ~

Now that's what I would call an adventurous spirit.

Linking with
"Our World Tuesday"

Ship Ahoy #1 ............

2012-02-19T17:15:00.000+10:30

~ Looking into the galley kitchen ~

This is a replica of Captain Cook's tall ship
HMB Endeavour - which is currently docked at the
McLaren Wharf in Port Adelaide

Imagine sitting in the Galley Kitchen
watching the waves roll onto the stern of the ship

I wouldn't last long
but I can imagine for those with sea-legs
the experience would be quite an adventure

~ The Royal Navy Ensign ~

I hope I'm correct in saying this is the stern of the ship!!

she is beautiful and I'm hopeful I will be able to capture
her in full sail

Chandeliers, Shutters And Roses.....

2012-02-18T06:30:00.000+10:30

~ Reflections through a bay window - Ayers House ~

I have taken pics of this window before
but each season brings with it a different
vignette of reflections.
Today it's blue skies and pink rambling roses

Linking with
"James' Weekend Reflections"

Gone Fishing ......

2012-02-16T22:00:00.000+10:30

Word had got around tommies and gar
were biting at Henley

Linking with
"Skywatch Friday"

A Thing Of The Past......

2012-02-15T05:45:00.000+10:30

~ Thorndon Park Water Tower ~

No! it's not the leaning Tower of Pisa ... but an old water tower built in the early 1800's
which is no longer in use but now designated as an architectural landmark

The resevoir and surrounds have been turned into a picturesque park
with walking tracks giving access to the many marshy water areas
with a wealth of bird life

Linking with " Watery Wednesday"

The Lady With A Rose........

2012-02-13T21:00:00.000+10:30

Situated in the historic area of the West Terrace Cemetery
is this elegant lady delicately holding a rose ... shall we persume it is red.
It is the beautiful etched headstone of Ada Sara who's epitaph has this to say

"Tender and True Graceful and Tactful
Self Sacrificing Brave Hearted and Wise"

She was the young wife of William Thomas
and sadly departed this life way too early.

The detailing of the drapery on her headstone is quite exquisite.

Because of it's age some sections of the stone-work
have taken on that wonderful coppery-burnished patina

To see what others have uncovered in their corner of the world
take a visit to "Taphophile Tragics"
& "Our World Tuesday"

Fiat Or Ferrari .....

2012-02-12T07:30:00.000+10:30

Taking a stroll around this weekends "Italian-Carnivale" amid flashy red Ferrari's
and cutesie Fiat bambinos

Take your pick!

I don't know how many miles this baby would get me up the highway
but I have to admit it made my heart sing.
Don't you just love that steering wheel and the combination of
duck-egg blue and rust is a marriage made in heaven!

Red White & Posh .........

2012-02-11T04:15:00.000+10:30

~ River Cafe Torrens Lake ~

Glimpsed through the trees, this posh resaurant looked
quite spekky with its white facade and red deck chairs
reflected in the lake

Not open for breakfast
what a pity!

Linking with
"James' Weekend Reflections"

Beneath Grey Skies ......

2012-02-09T22:00:00.000+10:30

On my way down to the Torrens Island Markets
I passed this little inlet near the North Arm
of the Port River Estuary

Soft grey skies .. yachts taking shelter amid the mangroves
and just a shimmer of morning sunlight

Linking with
Skywatch Friday

The Lake By Night.........

2012-02-09T06:20:00.000+10:30

~ Mawson Lakes Boulevard ~

This boulevard is a short stretch along the north end of the main lake
with restaurants running from end to end
Tonight the diners have all had their fill and gone home
which is an excellent opportunity for me to
practise night shots across the lake.

Clear Off ........

2012-02-08T07:00:00.000+10:30

Port Adelaide
somewhere near the docks

I couldn't help but smile at the signage on doors to this
company workshop originally established way back in 1875.
Although the street was a hive of activity with people looking for a park
no-one dared park in front of number 12

Edith Piaf...The Little Sparrow...

2012-02-07T05:45:00.000+10:30

On my last trip to Paris one of my sisters and I
spent a whole day mozzying around the cobblestoned paths
of Pere Lachaise Cimitiere - the most visited cemetery in the world.
Final resting place to many historic luminaires
among them being Edith Piaf or as she was commonly known
"The Little Sparrow"

Nothing is more Parisian than to hear the beautiful low husky voice
of this legendary and much loved French chanteuse.
She lived a tragic life but in the end had this to say
~ Non! Je ne regrette rien ~

Oh! those steps .... all day up and down
not for the faint hearted

To see what others have uncovered in their corner of the world
visit "TaphophileTragics"
& "Our World Tuesday"

A Walk In The Park.......

2012-02-06T08:30:00.000+10:30

This last weekend was just perfect to take another walk in the Botanic Gardens
after heavy rain on the Friday night ... every thing was fresh and pretty.

Growing up in rural South Australia I became accustomed to seeing
large blousy dahlias growing in relatives country gardens
My Mother often referred to them as being common and ostentatious
.... so consequently they were never grown in our garden.

Yes! maybe large blousy bold and ostentatious
but beautiful to photograph.

Linking with Mosaic Monday

Sacred Lotus.............

2012-02-05T05:45:00.000+10:30

As you can see I got a bit carried away with my
new camera ..... trying out different techniques

The one effect I really wanted to achieve was
sharp subject matter with soft blurring in the background
and so here you have the dead seedheads of the Sacred Lotus
which are presently blooming in our City Botanical Gardens
with the soft blur of foilage and lotus flower in the background
I hope you like it!

Sacred Lotus ~ Nelumbo Nucifera

Linking with Scenic Sunday - The view from right there
and Saturday Sareenity

Paddling Around .........

2012-02-03T21:00:00.000+10:30

~ Garden Island Dolphin Sanctuary ~

After spending a wonderful day this week with fellow blogger
and photography enthusiast Arija from "Garden Delights"
who most kindly allowed me to click away on her Canon camera
I decided to bite the bullet and purchase my very first
DSLR camera.... and so this is the first photo taken
on my own real camera ... and it even had reflections.
.

I guess Mr and Mrs Paddler with dog ... out in the middle of the estuary
were quite oblivious to the fact that this was a very momentus occasion for me.
I hope they didn't mind.

Linking with James' Weekend Reflections

Twilight Time.........

2012-02-03T07:00:00.000+10:30

Looking out towards the Torrens Island power station
is not usually a pretty sight but it's amazing what a
brush of twilight can do to the most
mundane areas of a city

This is my contribution to "Skywatch Friday"

Gondolas In The Sky...............

2012-02-01T20:00:00.000+10:30

~ Ferris Wheel On The Glenelg Promenade ~

Up Up and away ..... these pretty babushka style gondolas will take you on an
8 minute spin for A$6- with spekky views over both the city and the sea
not that I've actually taken the ride but I can imagine
it would be well worth the money.

I love the colour they bring to the area especially at night
when the wheel can be seen for miles around

"Prime Time" ..........

2012-01-31T22:00:00.000+10:30

No! I'm not in Monaco - Cannes or St Tropez
but sipping coffee on the Marina Pier boardwalk
among luxury yachts and classy restaurants

Yum Cha - Seafood - Greek or Steakhouse
take your pick

Don't you just love this spotless kitchen
complete with white barbecue !!

Linking with Watery Wednesday

Follow The Lane To The End.......

2012-01-31T07:15:00.000+10:30

~ Houghton Cemetery ~

Just through the pretty hamlet of Houghton
turn to your left and follow the lane to the end
That's how I found this quiet secluded country cemetery
situated on a small knoll - the burial place
to many of this areas pioneers

Some of the old headstones dated back to the 1860's
and like this one was almost ready to topple over or
in some instances had toppled over
leaving the inscription totally unreadable

I noticed quite a few of these early pioneers
although having lived through many a hardship and heart-ache
had survived to the grand old age of 80 years or more .

The names that brought a smile to my face were
Charlotte Jeremiah Emily Sarah & Daniel
not uncommon names in our present generation.

...................................

This is my contribution to
"Taphophile Tragics"
and
"Our World Tuesday"
take a visit to see what others have
uncovered in their corner of the world

Keeping Cool ..........

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000+10:30

~ Glenelg Jetty ~

Blue skies nothing but blue skies!
It has been so hot here at the moment that I can only
think in blue and green and water ....

Still Morning Along The Torrens.............

2012-01-29T06:30:00.000+10:30

Early morning on this stretch of the Torrens River is usually
a hive of activity with rowers from the nearby boating clubs
participating in their early morning practise session.
Unfortunately today the river has been closed due to
the pollution of blue-green algae - all is still! all is quiet!

These quaint "Popeye" motor launches have been around since 1935 !

they carry sightseers between Elder Park and the Adelaide Zoo

It's terrible to say I've never travelled on Popeye -I'm not good on boats

.... maybe I should just take the plunge

think of the photo opportunities - from the inside looking out!!

Linking with "Scenic Sunday" & "Saturday Sareenity"

Lady With A Pink Suede Glove............

2012-01-28T05:00:00.000+10:30

I snapped these reflections
on my way to The Mall
a mish-mash of hats - gloves - parking lots
and a lady with a pink suede glove

Linking with
James' Weekend Reflections

Evening Light............

2012-01-27T05:30:00.000+10:30

~ North Haven Marina ~

Watching the sun slowly dip below the horizon
accompanied by the rhythmic chimes of
sailboat riggings clanging against their masts.
clang!...clang!...clang!

Linking with "Skywatch Friday"

Bleached Timber & Hollow Rumblings..............

2012-01-25T06:45:00.000+10:30

~ Henley Beach Jetty ~

There's something magical about the underside of jetties
water gently lapping against wooden struts
hollow rumblings from footsteps overhead
textures of bleached timber aged and splintered
and of course light and shade and that wonderful salty smell of the sea.

I can't think of a better place to be on a hot summer morning

Linking with "Watery Wednesday"

Apples.. Chooks & A Rusty Barn............

2012-01-24T06:30:00.000+10:30

~ Some-where near Basket Range ~

An old rusty shed surrounded by apple orchards
and a mob of chooks clucking at the side fence
just asking to be photographed ...............

Rhode Island Red chooks
Cox's Orange Pippin apples - I think ??

This is my contribution to
"Our World Tuesday"

Riding Down To Camelot......

2012-01-22T06:15:00.000+10:30

~ Camelot Castle Adelaide Hills ~

"Four gray walls and four gray towers
overlook a space of flowers"

Did I find that bold knight Sir Lancelot
or the beautiful Island of Shalott
unfortunately not!!

but I did find the pretty space of flowers
and was able to gaze where the lillies blow

"Willows whiten aspens quiver

little breezes dusk and shiver.......

This is my contribution to "Scenic Sunday"

Take Two At The Marina.................

2012-01-20T22:30:00.000+10:30

While walking along the side-path at North Haven Marina
where I captured the sunset pics for yesterday's post
I noticed this great reflection in the front window
of one of the holiday homes and of course immediately
thought .....perfect for

"James' Weekend Reflections"
take a visit to see what others have captured

When The Sun Shakes Out Her Colours..........

2012-01-19T21:30:00.000+10:30

~ Summer Nights ~

Don't you just love that time of day
when the sun shakes out her colours

....................................

going! going! gone!
and I could hear that song running through my head
"There's a kind of hush all over the world"

~ North Haven Marina ~

This is my contribution
to "Skywatch Friday"

Think Green.....................

2012-01-19T06:00:00.000+10:30

We have just sweltered through a few scorching hot days here in my city
and so it was a welcome sight to see this stretch of green
in our East Parklands

Unfortunately not my picnic!

When The Rubber Hits The Road............

2012-01-18T06:20:00.000+10:30

Lampre chats with LiquidGas
as the "Santos Tour Down Under" heads out
on the stage one " Prospect to Clare" event

They will travel 149km in just under 4 hours
and the top favourite to win this stage is none-other
than Andre Griepel

I love the atmosphere along the road-side while waiting for the tour to appear
horns blowing-Skoda cars zipping here and there police cars with sirens & lights blazing
and of course official photographers waiting for that big shot - then woosh!!
I managed two clicks and they were gone.

Saddle-Makers Wheelwrights & Brass Founders...............

2012-01-17T06:45:00.000+10:30

~ Walkerville Wesleyan Cemetery ~

Opened in 1849 this historic small graveyard
is the final resting place for many of South Australia's most
prominent settlers together with lime-burners, saddle-makers
flour millers, wheelwrights and brass founders

Although only a small city cemetery it's a place you could meander
around in for hours - each site telling a story of other times
some quite heart-warming but others extremely sad.

I wondered about John - he was one of the very first
to be buried here and his grave lies up against the
hand-made stone wall that surrounds the area

"Departed this life in 1850 - Deeply regretted by a large circle of friends"
That sort of warmed the cockles of my heart.
.......................................

This is my contribution to "Taphophile Tragics"
and "Our World Tuesday"

A Splash Of Colour..............

2012-01-15T21:15:00.000+10:30

Nestled in among the stately mansions and regal buildings
on the eastern corner of South Terrace
I noticed this side wall decorated with street art.

It had no signature and to my mind no real message
but I quite liked it - I hope you do too.

Tranquility..................

2012-01-14T07:00:00.000+10:30

~ Adelaide - Himeji Gardens ~

The lake or S'ensui forms the heart of these tranquil gardens
created in the south parklands to honour our city's
sister city Himeji Japan.

~ A quiet place for reflecting on reflections ~

Linking with "James' Weekend Reflections"
"Shadowshot Sunday2" and "Scenic Sunday"

Gold-Dust On Silver Waters.......

2012-01-12T22:00:00.000+10:30

Last night the sun crept slowly towards the horizon
not with its usual fanfare of vibrant colours
but hiding her face behind the dark murky clouds
while gently shaking out fine ribbons of gold-dust
to glisten across silver waters.

It was one of the few occasions I had specifically
driven to the sea-side to capture a spekky sunset
but it wasn't one of those nights - it was very subdued
but in its own way quite beautiful
........................

This is my contribution to
"Skywatch Friday"

A Shimmer Of Gold......

2012-01-12T06:00:00.000+10:30

The northern end of King William Street Bridge
with reflected lighting shimmering across the River Torrens

The Ebony & The Ivory.......

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000+10:30

~ Morning sunlight on Grange Jetty ~

I have never been a real lover of monochrome photos
but in some respects I have admired the posts by other bloggers
who seem to make an average pic come to life in black & white.

So this is my little foray into the world of
the ebony and the ivory

Jonathon Livingston Seagull - no doubt!

Some of the photographic tutorial web sites
say to capture in colour and then edit to
black & white gives a better effect!!

I would love to hear what you think gives the best result.
.............................

Thsi is my contribution to the "Watery Wednesday" meme

Pansies, Candles And Violins.....

2012-01-10T07:20:00.000+10:30

Today I am taking you way beyond my home town
to the city of Salzburg in Austria
These photos were taken in the St Peters Abbey Cemetery
where most of the wealthy & aristocratic families of Salzburg are buried
it is also the site where the Von Trapp Family
hid in the movie " The Sound of Music"

I loved meandering around this wonderful place
with it's sense of history and the sound of
violins drifting across the air

Beautiful baroque style graves are tendered and decorated
with candles, ornate lanterns, fir branches and flowers
predominately pansies - because they derive their name
from the French word pensée which means thought.
..........................

This is my contribution to
"Taphophile Tragics"
and
"Our World Tuesday"
Take a visit to see what others have uncovered
in their corner of the world

Rusty Gate With Scrolls & Cobwebs........

2012-01-09T06:30:00.000+10:30

I fell in love with this rusty old mellow-yellow gate on the
Glen Ewin Estate property near Houghton in the Adelaide Hills

Its endearing qualities being lots of rust
coupled with intricate patterned spider silk

This estate was originally home to the famous Glen Ewin jam factory
which unfortunately ceased to operate in 1988

The buildings are now used as a function centre
and wine storage facility.

And where does this lane-way lead to ?
That's just it
I don't know !!

take a visit over to see what others
have found to post on "Mellow Yellow Monday"

Church Among The Gumtrees.......

2012-01-07T22:00:00.000+10:30

~ Golden Grove Uniting Church ~

A typical early South Australian country church
built in 1864 to the cost of 550 pounds
A small portico at the front to shelter the congregation from sun or rain
a copper metal cross atop the main building and a
bell used to herald the commencement of service
to the surrounding parishioners just in case they had
any thoughts of sleeping in !!

A corrugated iron roof and gum-trees completed the picture

Salt Of The Earth.......

2012-01-07T05:30:00.000+10:30

~ Reflections on the Dry Creek salt fields ~

"Salt is born of the purest of parents
the sun and the sea"....... Pythagoras.

....................................

I've often passed these salt fields in an area
north of the city not generally know for its salubriousness
and marvelled at the transformation created by evening light
reflecting off salt fields -It truly turns into a quite magical place

Unfortunately there are few spot to pull over off the busy highway
to take photos - so these transient views were taken from a distance
and then cropped, I hope it gives you an idea of the beauty of the place.

Looking west towards Torrens Island power station

For more interesting reflection pics
visit "James' Weekend Reflections"

Good-Morning Sunshine.....

2012-01-06T06:38:00.000+10:30

Looking east towards The Esplanade from Henley Jetty
with the sunshine peeking through silhouettes of large Norfolk Island pines

It's going to be another hot day!

For more beautiful skies from other corners of the world

visit "Skywatch Friday"

Nectarines Cherries And A French Baguette....

2012-01-05T06:00:00.000+10:30

Early morning in our Central Market
is always a hive of activity
with serious foodies checking out the
very best and freshest produce

Decisions Decisions!!
Nectarines or cherries
peaches or plums

Then onto my favourite bread shop for
croissants and a demi- baguette.

Seeing Red.......

2012-01-04T04:45:00.000+10:30

~ Mawson Lakes Boulevard ~

Taking a walk around the lake before the day heats up
red chairs at the ready - but unfortunately
it's too early for coffee

From a bench with a view

For more watery shots visit
"Watery Wednesday"

Hollyhocks Amid The Gravestones.............

2012-01-03T07:15:00.000+10:30

~ West Terrace Cemetery ~

The location for this State Heritage Listed Cemetery
was originally fixed by Colonel William Light
when he surveyed our city way back in 1837

I noticed a lot of self seeded old fashioned plants randomly popping up
amongst the gravestones - hollyhocks - wild minature trailing roses - and in some
areas young olive trees and couldn't help but think that mingling amid
the wonderful old names of Eloise - Emmeline - Maud and Wilhemina
they added a sense of history to the place

I should have taken more notice of the epitaph on this headstone
Does any-one know the quote ?

Take a visit over to Julie's new meme

Taphophile Tragics

to see what others have found while

wandering around cemetries in their corner of the world

..............................

My contribution to "Our World Tuesday"

Henley Jetty...........

2012-01-02T07:30:00.000+10:30

~ Morning Light ~

Early morning -6.30am to be precise- and the Henley Jetty is already a-buzz
with fishermen - joggers - and locals just out walking their dogs

It's A New Day - It's A New Year..........

2012-01-01T11:10:00.000+10:30

~ Henley Beach Jetty ~

That magical time of the morning
just before the sun peeks it's face over the horizon
never ceases to amaze me!

A palette of multi layered colours
from silky blue to violet to turquoise to soft pink
...................................

And for my photo of the year

~ Glistening pearls atop the sacred lotus leaves ~

<a href="http://www.citydailyphoto.com/portal/themes_archive.php?tid=65">Click here to view thumbnails for all participants</a>

Pelican On A Log......

2011-12-30T23:00:00.000+10:30

Mr Pelican soaking up the early morning sun
at the Greenfields Wetlands

Wishing you all a wonderful safe and happy New Year!!

For more reflections from around the world
visit James' Weekend Reflections

Sand, Sea, Sky And A Lonely Seagull.......

2011-12-30T05:30:00.000+10:30

~ Boston Bay on a clear Summer's Day ~
I love it when the sea sparkles!

maybe that's not a gull? it's beak looks way too long

To see what's happening in other skies around the world
visit Skywatch Friday

There's A Kind Of Hush..........

2011-12-29T05:30:00.000+10:30

Less than ten minutes away in the heart of the city
everybody is shopping till they drop
bagging a bargain at the post Christmas sales
but here in the surrounding parklands all is peaceful
and quite - not a soul to be seen.

It's rumoured that a large proportion of this area will be
converted to parking space when they demolish the perfectly adequate
and unique Adelaide Oval to make way for the new oval.
And that's called progress!!

Ship Shape For Sashimi.........

2011-12-28T12:30:00.000+10:30

"The Tacoma" - one of many tuna boats that operate out of
Port Lincoln (my home town) which has given this city the prestigious title of
"Most millionaires per head of population"

............................

A large percentage of tuna are caught in the pristine waters
of the Southern ocean then put into floating enclosures
and slowly towed back to local waters - extreme care is taken
so as not to damage or bruise their flesh nor stress the tuna in anyway
they are then fattened for the very lucrative Japanese sashimi market

~ Getting everything ship-shape ~

For more watery shots visit
"Watery Wednesday"

On A Wing And A Prayer........

2011-12-27T12:00:00.000+10:30

This statuary dates from the mid 1800"s and is located
in the "old" section of Adelaide's West Terrace Cemetery

Tragic in one sense because of the broken arm and wing
but beautiful in another because of the attention to detail in the drapery
and the wonderful patina of muted colourings against the early morning sky.

This is my contribution to Julie's new meme "Taphophile Tragics"
which I'm sure is going to have me prowling local
cemeteries with camera in tow
...............

To see more pics from other corners of the world
visit " Our World Tuesday"

Reflections Of Audrey.......

2011-12-24T07:00:00.000+10:30

A Christmas lunch at tea rooms on Unley Road

where almost everything is Pink!!

A Merry Christmas to all my friends in blogger-world

I really hope you all have a wonderful day with family and friends

Weekend Reflections

Christmas Lights In The Suburbs..............

2011-12-20T23:00:00.000+10:30

A little blurry but I quite like this family home
all dressed up for Christmas.
My little point and shoot camera just doesn't do it justice
and I have resolved in the New Year to purchase
my first ever SLR camera - in fact I'm looking forward to it
and have been busy comparing cameras and prices
decisions! decisions!

A Taste Of Summer......

2011-12-19T20:00:00.000+10:30

Soft light over Glenelg Beach

Sitting on the sand eating fish & chips
on a pefect summer evening

To see what's happening in
other corners of the worldvisit
Our World Tuesday

The Palm House...........

2011-12-18T07:30:00.000+10:30

A little touch of Victoriana in our Botanic Gardens

This wonderful glasshouse was imported from Bremen Germany
in 1875 and is currently home to a collection of Malagasy arid plants
Although this collection is quite unique -I would have to say they are not my favourite
type of plants but I love the structure and feel of this decorative building

Sky Watch Friday.........

2011-12-16T07:00:00.003+10:30

~ North Haven Marina ~

While the rest of Australia seems to be suffering
under grey skies and rainy days - here in Adelaide
we have had the good fortune to enjoy beautiful blue skies
coupled with fair weather - days when it's good to take a walk along
one of our many beaches and soak up a little of the summer sun

For more Skywatch photos
from around the world
visit Skywatch Friday

Carousel In The Mall.......

2011-12-14T21:00:00.008+10:30

Amid the flurry of Christmas shoppers in Rundle Mall
is this pretty carousel with its colourful assortment
of characters ranging from prancing horses, swans
and sea urchins to an ever so graceful purple ostrich

It certainly adds a bit of Christmas cheer.

Nothing But Blue Skies ...............

2011-12-13T06:00:00.004+10:30

- Holdfast Bay Marina -

I love the sea when it sparkles!

A little taste of Europe - red geraniums
blue waters and the sight of tall white masts
against clear blue skies
That's as good as it gets!

Planning my get-away!

To see what's happening
in other corners of the world
visit Our World Tuesday

St Peters Cathedral.......

2011-12-11T22:00:00.003+10:30

~ St Peters Cathedral North Adelaide ~

All decked out and ready for one of the nearby schools
end of year "Christmas Carol Service"
It is one of Adelaide's earliest landmark churches
built in the Neo-Gothic style

Beauty In High Places.......

2011-12-10T22:00:00.015+10:30

Adelaide is a city where you need to look up to
appreciate it's many architectural treasures

.............................................

These pics were both taken looking towards the northern
end of the heritage listed Bonython Hall

The style of these windows is noted as being Medieval-Gothic
but I would refer to them as being Cathedral Windows

This is my contribution to
Scenic Sunday

Nasturtium Reflections.......

2011-12-10T08:00:00.003+10:30

I hope you've all had a wonderful week
I've been far away in the west of our state
but now it's back to reality

For more reflections from
around the world
visit James' Weekend Reflections

It's Beginning To Look A Bit Like Christmas.......

2011-12-05T19:00:00.003+10:30

It's nice to see the main gates of Government House
all decked out for Christmas

Greenfields Wetlands.........

2011-12-04T07:00:00.011+10:30

Now I'm going to show off my birding knowledge
this is a - Great Egret - soaking up the sun
and I really hope I've got the name right !!!
anyway whatever the name he's a very handsome bird
and even more special because unlike other water-birds
he didn't fly off into the blue beyond
the moment I aimed my camera.

I'm an impatient photographer - just like to point and shoot
then be on my way but Steve Paris impressed upon us
at his work-shop - the need for patience and perseverance
I really must return to this place with a different mindset.

Greenfield Wetlands is a relatively new man-made urban wetland zone
constructed in an effort to entice bird-life back into the area
plus filter polluted stormwater through a series of reedbeds and ponds.
On both counts it's been very successful

These pics have been linked with
Scenic Sunday

Reception With Reflection.......

2011-12-03T05:00:00.000+10:30

~ Henry's Brasserie North Terrace ~

All dressed up for the wedding guests

For more interesting reflections from around the world
visit James' Weekend Reflections

Layers Of Light & Shade......

2011-12-02T07:30:00.000+10:30

This photo was taken back in September while holidaying in Northern Queensland.
It was very early in the morning with a band of dark misty clouds hovering low over the horizon
and just enough break to allow the new day sun to shimmer across the waves
and land a reflected sun right at my feet.

I hope you don't feel sea-sick!!

My contribution to
Skywatch Friday

Decked Out For Summer.......

2011-12-01T06:00:00.002+10:30

- North Terrace - Our Cultural Golden Mile -

It's refreshing to see lush green foliage
back on the plane trees after a long leafless winter
everything on the terrace looks lighter and brighter

Hello Summer!

Looking Through The Portico....

2011-11-28T21:30:00.004+10:30

Looking out from the side portico of " Bonython Hall"
a beautiful mellow stoned building referred to as the "Great Hall" of the
Adelaide University's City Campus

I got a bit carried away taking pics

each archway a vignette that needed to be snapped

To see what's happening in other corners of the world
visit Our World Tuesday

Walking In The Rain.......

2011-11-27T07:00:00.015+10:30

~ raindrops on a milky green pond ~

Soft morning rain - grey overcast skies and very damp underfoot
didn't deter a friend and I from heading out on a photo shoot
along a nearby creek- bed

"The best thing one can do when it rains is to let it rain"
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

I don't know the official name of the creek
but it's very shallow and in places reduces to almost a trickle where
the trailing nasturiums have over-grown the banks

I guess the English would refer to it as a babbling brook!

Reflections At The Marina........

2011-11-26T05:30:00.004+10:30

My home town -Port Lincoln-
with touches of red and blue and white
and a gull soaring high.

............................

For more interesting reflections from
around the world
visit James' Weekend Reflections

Blue Skies, Hollyhocks And A Busy Bee.....

2011-11-23T20:00:00.010+10:30

Trying to capture this bee collecting pollen
was not an easy task - he kept flying back to the edge of the
hollyhock petal and performing this little hovering dance
before diving into the centre again to gather more pollen
for mamma queen bee.

click here for more skies at
Skywatch Friday

and for beautiful flowers visit
Floral Friday Fotos

The Green Or The Gold.........

2011-11-22T20:30:00.005+10:30

I often take photos from different angles but with these
two pics I think I might have overdone it a tad !!!

...................................

On spring cleaning my photo cache
it was either delete them or post them
So here you are - the leaning fountain
in green or gold!

Blurry but I love the green

Both pics were taken from my favourite city location
standing on the King William Street Bridge
just after sunset.

On The Grape-Vine.......

2011-11-21T22:00:00.008+10:30

These pics were taken in and around the
historic Penfolds winery complex which includes
vineyards - winery - cellar door and the
Magill Estate Restaurant with it's million dollar view
looking down across the vineyards and further west
onto Adelaide's skyline

It's hard to believe this complex nestled into the foothills
of the Mount Lofty ranges - is less than
15 mins from the city centre

To see what's happening in other corners of the world
click here to view
Our World Tuesday

Colour My World Green.....

2011-11-20T21:00:00.003+10:30

One happy and contented duck
perfectly posed and with such a pretty face
how could I not take her photo!

Glimpsed Through A Window.....

2011-11-18T21:00:00.009+10:30

Taking a peek through the round bay window
on the western edge of historic and
picturesque "Ayers House"
.............................

Adelaide's finest example of regency architecture
with great windows for catching reflections
slightly curved and shone to perfection.

Looking sky-ward through the beautiful old jacaranda tree
you see reflected in the window

.....................................

For more reflections pics from around the world
click over to James' Weekend reflections

Soft Golden Skies.............

2011-11-18T05:30:00.004+10:30

- Semaphore Jetty -

That time of day that the French refer to as
"l'heure de crepuscule" when the world takes on
a wonderful soft golden hue.

I couldn't quite decide which pic to post
and so decided to post them both!

For more skies from around the world visit
Skywatch Friday

Happy Skywatching!

A Drive In The Country........

2011-11-16T07:00:00.014+10:30

Maggie Beers' Farm - Barossa Valley

Spring is the time for a drive in the country with friends
and of course topped off by a rustic picnic-fare lunch
at one of my favourite places.
.....................

Maggie makes these wonderful picnic box lunches
and so on each visit I choose a different box
Today it was Pheasant Farm pate with caramelized onions
freekah salad and wood-oven baked bread
delicious!

Looking through the window from the kitchen
where the tv program "The Cook & The Chef" was filmed

Purple Haze..........

2011-11-14T20:30:00.004+10:30

~ Tusmore Avenue ~

Each November our city becomes aglow with a
purple haze courtesy of the many beautiful
Jacarandas trees which line our suburban streets
.......................
Pretty as a picture to most of us residents
to others unfortunately nothing but trouble
with the continual dropping of lavender petals
into their gutters and drains.

Strolling around one of our more salubrious neighbourhoods

click here to see more pics from around the world at
Our World Tuesday

Days Of Wine & Roses..........

2011-11-13T18:00:00.007+10:30

The bill-board says it all
this old winery located in the eastern Suburbs
has been around for a long time
with the sort of nostalgic signage that makes you
want to skid on the brakes and turn in.

Reflections Amid The Lotus..........

2011-11-11T18:00:00.010+10:30

~ Sacred Lotus Pond (Nelumbo Nucifera ) - Adelaide Botanic Gardens ~

Peering into the new soft green under-growth of the Sacred Lotus
I was amazed to see the size of the water droplets
perfectly formed and sitting atop the lotus leaves
like glistening pearls.

In a few weeks time this pond will once again be a mass
of exquisite lotus blooms and I will be back again taking
photo after photo of this amazing sight.

My blog- header photo was taken last December
when the pond was a blaze of pink and white.

For reflections from around the world
take a visit to
James' Weekend Reflections

At The Going Down Of The Sun.............

2011-11-10T17:00:00.011+10:30

~ Sunset over the Gulf of St Vincent ~

As the sun hovered low over the horizon
before slowly disappearing - it left in its wake
a magical treasure trove of rich colours

Today here in Australia it is "Remembrance Day"
when we remember the members of the armed forces
who lost their lives in the line of duty.

At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month
our nation along with many other nations
pause for 1 minute silence.
.....................
"At the going down of the sun
and in the morning
We will remember them"

To see beautiful skies from around the world visit
Skywatch Friday

Waiting For A Bus.......

2011-11-09T16:00:00.007+10:30

The Supreme Court of South Australia
with the normal flurry of trams buses and cars

What more can a person do while waiting for a bus in the city
but snap a few everyday scenes
nothing spectacular
just random shots from the bus bench!

Pilgrim Uniting Church
sitting pretty at the corner of the square

The Angas building dwarfted by its neighbour

St Francis Xavier Cathedral

soaking up the late afternoon sun

Lavender - Wormwood and Rambling Roses.....

2011-11-08T07:30:00.003+10:30

An early South Australian cottage now gone to ruin
but the beautiful rambling cottage garden
continues to flourish despite the lack of attention.
I love to drop by here every so often and take a walk
among the rubble and sweet perfume of the place
set amid thickets of olde-world plantings.

wild roses - lavenders - worm-wood - rosemary

click here to view more pics from around the world at
Our World Tuesday

Fountain In The Square...........

2011-11-06T23:00:00.008+10:30

The Three Rivers Fountain - by John Dowie

Normally quite subdued in grey tones
this fountain located at the northern edge of
Victoria Square could be described as nice
but not spectacular - however the other evening
as I passed by - the late afternoon sunlight
had illuminated the surrounding buildings
and I would have to say for the first time
I actually thought the fountain looked quite stunning.

A Right Royal View.................

2011-11-04T23:00:00.005+10:30

No! I haven't hopped on a Qantas jet and winged across the world
These pics were taken on my last trip to London when I was fortunate enough
to pay a vist to Buckingham Palace on one of their Open Days.
The Palace gardens were an absolute delight and I could imagine
the Queen walking her corgis down by the lake.

......................................

Unfortunately she wasn't at home when I called
but I enjoyed tea and scones out on the rear terrace
remembering to hold my tea-cup with pinkie finger extended!!

.

It really is a tranquil haven
nestled right in the heart of London.

A happy week-end to you all!

For more reflection photos
click here to visit
James' Weekend Reflections

Twilight Comes Softly.......

2011-11-03T22:00:00.003+10:30

Looking land-ward from Semaphore jetty
towards the main street of this historic beach-side suburb
The sun had just dipped below the horizon
leaving a soft palette of pastel hues across the sky-line.

To see beautiful skies from around the world
visit
Skywatch Friday

Al Fresco In The East-End.........

2011-11-02T20:30:00.002+10:30

The east-end of Rundle Street is Adelaide's trendy cosmopolitan centre
with a plethora of cafes- restaurants - cinemas
and my favourite shop of all Gelatissimo with the
scrummiest selection of ice-creams
At the moment we have been fortunate to have the
Italian Film Festival featuring some great Italian movies

Hay Barns & Country Fences...............

2011-11-01T05:00:00.003+10:30

~ Poonindie ~

This old style timber log fence runs down
the side of a quaint hay barn in the small community
township of Poonindie on the West Coast of our state.
Nestled amongst gum-trees - dilapidated - covered in weeds
sitting on the edge of town - it's the sort of scene
that begs to be photographed
I hope you like it!

This is my contribution to the November
City Daily Photo Theme Day
" Fences "

and
"Our World Tuesday"

<a href="http://www.citydailyphoto.com/portal/themes_archive.php?tid=63">Click here to view thumbnails for all participants</a>

Blue Crab & Squid........

2011-10-30T18:00:00.000+10:30

~ Largs Bay jetty at low tide ~

Largs Bay Jetty is one of Adelaide's oldest Jetties
full of charm and character with its sun-bleached pylons
and fishermen dangling their lines over the side.

A guy down the end told me it's the best place for
catching blue crab and squid
I'll take his word for it!!

City Reflections.........

2011-10-28T21:00:00.012+10:30

Looking across stream to the modern
Space-Theatre and Dunstan Playhouse
which are part of the wider Festival Theatre complex

It is rumoured that this whole area is going to receive a face-lift
which is long over-due - by night it's fine but daylight definitely
shows the need for a re-vamp,

For more interesting reflections from around the world
click here for James' Weekend Reflections

Blue Skies Over North Haven........

2011-10-27T20:50:00.003+10:30

Located on the northern end of our metroploitan beaches
is the North Haven Marina
usually choc-a-block with luxury craft
with their mast poles reaching for the
endless blue sky

click here to visit more
Skywatch Friday photos
from around the world

Soft Evening Light.......

2011-10-26T21:00:00.006+10:30

We have had the most amazing sunsets in the last few weeks
not dramatic - but soft with a melding of pastels
I really envy artists who can put brush to canvas
and paint what they see.

Still Water & Raindrops on Blossoms.........

2011-10-24T21:00:00.009+10:30

Looking south- east across Mawson Lakes

A few weeks ago I showed you this view
taken just before sunrise on a crispy cold morning
today while passing I decided to take the same pic
with sunshine and clear blue skies.

~ Raindrops on Spring Blossoms ~

......................

This is my contribution to
Our World Tuesday

Inner City Living........

2011-10-24T08:00:00.005+10:30

~ Charlick Circuit ~

Tucked away just a stones throw away from cafes coffee shops and bakeries
is what is know as the cbd's niche-market

Could I live here?
probably not - but I can understand why people do

Sunrise Over Wynn Vale Dam.......

2011-10-23T08:00:00.009+10:30

A magical time of the day
not only to take photos
but simply to be alive.

I took these photos at about 6am this morning
and wish they could convey to you the beautiful cacophony
of a myriad bird songs on the clear spring air.

If you want to see more pics
from Scenic Sunday
click here

A Hard Days Work.......

2011-10-22T01:00:00.005+10:30

This group of workman were hard at work directly
outside a rather up-market restaurant in the city centre
I couldn't help but take a shot of the proceedings
reflected through the window where
Bob the Builder in his hard hat and bobcat digger
happily mingled with the posh waiter!

click here
to visit James' Week-End reflections