Mother's day butterflies with my daughter

I thought I would share some of the photos I took on the wonderful Mother's day outing to The butterfly place with my daughter. There were so many species of butterflies and moths, and we were lucky enough to have several land on us! 

A swallowtail landed on her hand and then climbed up her arm... I actually really love the whole series of photos I took of that happening. 

How awesome is that?? We had a wonderful time amongst the butterflies... How about a look at a few of the varieties we saw?

One of me taken by my daughter... With my favorite butterfly. <3

        What a wonderful way to spend Mother's day... 

Thank you for enjoying ours with us.  

Spring scenery at an Italian garden

I'd love to bring you to one of my favorite parks. It's home to a gorgeous sunken Italian garden. And although the roses aren't in bloom yet, there was so much of an explosion of pinks, whites, greens and reds, that I couldn't stop snapping one shot after another.

Pink petals carpet the brick walkways, and lions keep watch over the rose garden. I can't even describe to you how sweet and Spring-time fresh the air smells. I sat on several of the stone benches and just really enjoyed the moment... I listened to birds, I walked on petal covered paths in my bare feet, I snapped portraits of my kids and scenic shots to share with you.  

I really couldn't have asked for a more perfect Spring day. High 60's, slight breeze, blue skies and wispy clouds... It's like Mother Nature knew that I was in need and happily obliged.


I love the herringbone brickwork. So much detail in the little things.... Let's take a closer look at that bench, shall we?

The angels on the arm rests remind me of the maiden heads on a ship. Incredible craftsmanship and painstaking amounts of time were spent on this.

The paths seem to wind their way around the property in a fluid way that always brings you back to the garden. Let's meander a bit and take a look at the "bigger picture".

The roses aren't in bloom yet, but you can imagine all of the pinks, reds, whites and yellows that come to life in the Summer sun. I'll revisit and share those with you when their time comes to bloom.
I know you're dying to get a closer look at those handsome lions standing guard over the garden...

And who could blame you? They're so beautiful in person, I can only hope that I've captured a little of it for you.

You know I couldn't resist taking a dozen shots of my daughter here on the bench with the poofy pink blossoms in the background, and the harbor in the distance.

Roman pillars... This little area was FILLED with bird's nests in the ceilings. Small sparrows it appeared.

Looking across the garden at the falconer statue and the sea beyond, I'm thankful for history. And warm Spring days. And sweet smelling breezes....
I'm even thankful for sunspots that you think may "ruin" your shot... It brings a warmth and a beauty and a feel that wouldn't have existed otherwise...

Leaving the garden, I find a beautiful bouquet of Spring colors to bid you farewell with... I'll update with more Spring adventures soon!