At the top of the World, or maybe even higher

For several years now, I've known of a nesting area for the herons and egrets of the area right off the expressway heading into Chicago.  The former corporate campus of ATT has a large pond in the front with an island smack dab in the middle of it which is perfect for these creatures.  No access to the island, only viewing from a distance.  I've often driven the "loop" around the island and seen many nesting birds in the trees.  For some reason, this summer the island is more populated than ever and I'm seeing more young ones than ever.  Unfortunately, the young ones are small and they of a darker color so they don't show up as well in photos.  But, the fully white adults stick out like a sore thumb.  Some days, just in the few seconds it takes to pass the area, I can count around 20-25 full grown adults sitting in the trees or in the pond fishing.  I haven't really had any chances to go hang out there this summer, but today in midafternoon, I made a point to stop when I saw all the white specs sitting in the trees.  The shots tonight are of the same bird just from different perspectives.  Before I even put the camera up to my eyes, I knew this would be a special shot with the lone bird perched high up in the trees with the turbulent clouds in the background.

Let's continue with the sunsets

Tonight was perhaps the most beautiful sunset of the summer.  But, you won't see a pic of that here since we were too busy having fun in the water and I didn't feel like running up and getting my camera.  You will see a pic I grabbed last night.  And while not quite sunset yet, it was getting close.  This shot shows that the big ball of fire in the sky is truly a star.

Summer Lights

Just a quick couple of shots from the last few days showing the various lighting situations from the summer sun.

Summer Love

Well, in this case, I don't think its love.  But, come on, everyone has had that one special friend one summer in their life, that you spent alot of time with, experienced alot of what you should experience at whatever age you were at the time. Someone that you could spend time with that wasn't an adult telling you what to do all the time.  In this case, Derek's summer friend is a girl.  But, don't tell him, because once he realizes it, it will probably end.  He's an 8 year old, you know. The "G" word is forbidden around him.

In Control

A sight that will probably never be seen in my family.  This pelican family seems to be at peace.....with no squawking,,,,,no bickering......just peace and quiet.  Eh, sounds boring anyway.  But, a pretty picture.

Splish! Splash!

Bigger kids means bigger thrills.  I'm realizing this as mine get older.  My question though is, at what age does a person require lesser thrills.  Somehow I missed that exact point in time.  I know as a youth I craved those same thrills.  All of a sudden, I see a grounds eye view of this monster slide and I think she's nuts for attempting it. One of the great mysteries of life.

Just Hanging Around

I know I posted earlier tonight, but I'm still just hanging around. This shot makes it worth a double post day.