Here’s Lookin’ at Me

Catching a glimpse of myself during a recent photowalk in downtown Tampa.

Turning the Hillsborough River Green

The Mayor’s River O’Green Fest took place today in downtown Tampa.  I don’t know exactly who this gentleman is, but he was the master of ceremonies and was happy to pose for me.

It started out small, with one boat and an interesting hue of green dye…

And an enthusiastic crowd gathering along the river….

Then the fire department got involved and completed the greening process ….

A Night at the Zoo

A Night at the Zoo

With more seasonable weather, it was a pleasant night to venture out to Lowry Park Zoo for DinoQuest 2. DinoQuest is an exhibit area featuring 22 animatronic dinosaurs, complete with sounds. The exhibit is open on select nights and, I have to say, it’s pretty cool visiting at night. Outside the exhibit, there is an interactive area for the kids featuring a Dino inflatable slide, bouncy house for the little ones, and an archeology dig.

Lowry Park Zoo was again rated #1 Zoo by Parents magazine. It’s nice to see a local place receiving recognition.

Dino Nights at Lowry Park Zoo

Two Girls Walking

Two Girls Walking

Something different has been in the air for 2 days now…really cold weather in Tampa. I ventured out into the blustery, raw outdoors today to see an art show downtown. I admit that I could have used a few more layers and maybe even a scarf to face the elements. I also admit to wishing I had the furry hats and fuzzy boots these ladies donned for their walk along the river front.

Good Day Sunshine

Good Day Sunshine

My, it’s been a while, hasn’t it? Happy 2013!!

While it’s pretty cold in most of the country, our little part of the world is enjoying more spring-like weather after a short cold snap.

It’s Spirit Week at school and one of the week’s themes is “Decade Day.” While I was hoping she’d choose 80s, she went 60s. I think she makes a pretty flower child.

Peace and Love, everyone!

 

Scott Kelby’s Worldwide Photowalk 2012

Just Do It

Last weekend was the annual Scott Kelby’s Worldwide Photowalk. While I had hoped to travel out of state for this year’s walk, I ended up staying close to home again.  This year, I opted for the Ybor City/Tampa Ride the Trolley walk.

50 of us hit the rails for trips around Ybor City and downtown Tampa. It was my first time on the trolley and it was a lot of fun.  During the day I met some really nice and talented people and talked all things photography. After the walk, we went to a local bar/eatery for more conversation (and air conditioning).

The image above is my entry for this year. The original shot was full body, but when I took it, I knew I’d crop it down to show the tattoos and skateboard. I also envisioned a black and white shot. Overall, I’m pretty happy with it and I really love all the shadows.

Happy Birthday, EPCOT

Happy Birthday, EPCOT

Wow, it’s been 30 years since Epcot opened!  And what does the acronym EPCOT stand for, boys and girls? Experimental Prototype City of Tomorrow. (The original name, by the way, was EPCOT Center.)

I remember my first visit in high school, just after it opened. I still have that ticket around here, somewhere. My favorite part of EPCOT was and still is the England Pavilion. I can easily say I’ve been to Disney and all the sister parks in Florida more than 100 times. It never gets old for me.

Sadly, I’ll miss this year’s Food and Wine Festival at Epcot, but I hope to be able to renew our family passes soon.

The photo above was taken during the 2011 Scott Kelby Worldwide Photowalk. This year’s walk is October 13 and ‘ll be part of a group heading to Ybor City by trolley. The idea of the trolley sold me on the walk. Well, that and I’m still waiting for extra cash to renew those Disney passes!

Check out the Worldwide Photowalk website to see if there’s a group near you!