Life: Through the Lens

June 15 is designated as Nature Photography Day - a day to get outdoors and share your love of photography, and nature. What better way to spend a day than by teaching someone about the importance of caring for our environment. Take this opportunity to create awareness; you can find out more information about this event, and ways to share it, at http://www.nanpa.org/news/2007_NaturePhotoDay.php So mark your calendar: Friday, June15 - "Capture a Scene." I will be posting prior to this day, and would like responses from those participating. Get creative, grab a friend and/or family member, and get outdoors.

What a wonderful trip to an extraordinary country. This photo shows our group in the jungle canals of the northeastern area of Costa Rica, Tortugero. Shooting from a boat was a new experience for us, but we captured some beautiful images this way. Look for our newest images on our website within a week or so.

When Robert Snyder purchased more than 5,000 acres in Missouri's Ozark Lake district, he had visions of a private retreat in European style. Construction of his "castle" was begun in 1905, but halted a year later due to his untimely death in one of the state's first automobile accidents. Snyder's sons completed construction, then leased the castle as a hotel. Unfortunately, the structure was gutted by fire in 1942 when a chimney spark ignited the roof. Found in Ha Ha Tonka (Laughing Waters) State Park, this structure overlooks scenic hills and lakes. Take a picnic lunch when you go.

As we wind our way through part of the country prior to our departure for Costa Rica, we found this Windmill Farm fascinating. The prevailing westerly winds and open plains of upper Illinois drive these 63 foot tall windmills, powering small towns near Paw Paw. Though wind power can sometimes be unpredictable, this is definitely one alternate power source worth considering.