Saturday, May 09, 2009

Birds at the Bird Feeder

~~~
Here are just two of the birds that came to my bird feeders yesterday.
I bought a new lens, 80-400mm, which will bring the birds closer for more detail.
Well, you know what I mean. 
It doesn't bring them physically closer, just makes them LOOK closer. 
I also bought a "blind" so I can hide from the birds and I can get closer to them.
A blind is like a little tent, just made for photographers (or hunters?).
 The outside of this "tent" is camouflage fabric to blend in with the trees and grasses. These two birds were my first shots.
Now for the next step.....
I will have to construct a more pleasing perch or some branches nearby the feeders, so the birds will be in a more natural habitat for the shot.
Whew! I didn't realize how difficult it is to photograph birds.
It brings a new appreciation to the wonderful bird photos you see in magazines and on the internet.
The real skill comes when birds are photographed in a more wild, natural environment, but let me take this one step at a time.
For me, right now, the bird feeders will be my photography "studio!"
~~~~~~~~~~

Tuesday, May 05, 2009

St. Josaphat's Monastery Tea House

~~~

St. Josaphat's Monastery Tea House, Glen Cove

See the historical background below...

~~~

Sunday, May 03, 2009

WLIW21 NEEDS HUNTINGTON MEMORIES

WLIW21 NEEDS HUNTINGTON MEMORIES 
FOR A NEW DOCUMENTARY

Share Your Stories, Photos & Home Movies

In the tradition of WLIW21’s award-winning New York The Way it 
Was series, the New York public television station is getting 
ready to explore the story of one of Long Island’s most 
interesting communities – Huntington. 
Following the tremendous  success of New York War Stories, which featured viewer- contributed videos and letters, WLIW21’s production team turns  to viewers like you once again for stories, photos and home 
movies of family celebrations, sporting events, carnivals, 
parades and other Huntington activities. 
If you lived in 
Huntington Village, Cold Spring Harbor, Huntington Station, 
Northport, Greenlawn, Dix Hills and Lloyd Neck 
between 1950 and 1990, 
please share your memories of the places and people that 
will always remind you of your hometown, Huntington. 
WLIW21’s 
cameras can capture Huntington today, but need your help to 
tell the story of yesterday. 

Visit wliw.org for details.

Send your photos or movies (any format) to:
Stephanie Marsh
WLIW21
P.O. Box 21
Plainview, NY 11803
Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want 
your submission returned.

All photo submissions will also be considered for the film’s 
DVD cover.

Email your stories of life in Huntington as you knew it to 
Hometown@wliw.org.

Call 516.367.2100 x8461 with any questions.

Submissions will be accepted through June.
~~~~

Saturday, May 02, 2009

St. Josaphat's Monastery Garden Gate


St Josaphat Gate, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

St. Josaphat's Garden Gate, Glen Cove

A little history on the once wealthy estate, and now part of the St. Josaphat's Monastery:

"In Lattingtown, one of the wealthiest communities in the country, there is a 118-acre estate whose residents have taken vows of poverty. It is St. Josephat's Monastery, and the Basilian monks who have lived there since 1944 use the 74-room mansion as a place of quiet prayer. The mansion had been owned by industrialist J.E. Aldred until he went bankrupt in 1942. A bank seized it and found no buyers until the order of Basilian monks snapped it up for $75,000, a bargain even then."

More history:

"Ormston House John E. Aldred estate, built 1910-Now used as a monastery, this 40 room mansion is reminiscent of an English country estate. Situated atop a sloping hill, it commands a magnificent view of Long Island Sound. J. E. Aldred constructed this estate at the same time, and adjacent to, the former W. D. Guthrie estate, Meudon. Aldred and Guthrie were both friends, who together purchased the town of Lattingtown. They then demolished all of the homes and businesses in the town to create their estates. Although Lattingtown no longer exists with a town center, there are some remnants of its history. The original Latting House, for whom the town was named, still remains today and is privately owned. Ormston is still in good shape, but Meudon has been demolished and replaced with private homes."

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Temple of Love


Temple of Love, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Old Westbury Gardens
"Temple of Love"
Old Westbury, Long Island

Linden Allée


Linden Allée, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Took advantage of the good weather and went to Old Westbury Gardens. Here is "Linden Allée" -four rows of Linden trees line the entrance to the estate. Beautiful now and even better when the leaves come in completely.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Sitting Outdoors


A beautiful day on Long Island and the first day we could really sit outside for lunch
 with our little visitor, Oliver.
He is so cute and he leaves lots of crumbs for the ants!
It feels good to spend the entire day outdoors!
~~~~~~~~~~

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

osprey


osprey, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

Taken on Friday, when the weather was pleasant, at the William Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Oakdale, Long Island. The Osprey nest is still on the top of the chimney.

I waited for him/her to fly away and come back with a fish, but it just didn't happen while I was there.

~~~

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Starling


Starling, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Walking through the neighborhood on a beautiful spring day, a Starling was calling his/her mate. I'm not sure of the ID of this flowering tree. Cherry maybe? Here on Long Island, the trees are beginning to bloom and the birds are busy with life.

Saturday, April 18, 2009

Peacock Display


Peacock Display, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

We went to the Holtsville, Brookhaven Ecology Site today. Nothing unusual but cute. A great place to take the kids!

This is the first time, that I remember, actually watching a peacock display his feathers. He shakes them making a rattling sound and rotates 360 to show them off. Beautiful and so cool!
~~~

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Oliver kisses


Oliver kisses
Originally uploaded by Alida's Photos
This is Oliver, age 15 months, sending kisses to grandpa!

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

First Blooms


First Blooms, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

~~~

The neighborhood weeping willow is starting to bloom!

Yeah! for spring!!

~~~

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Happy Easter!!


daffodils in April, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Wishing you all a warm, happy Easter Sunday!

Thursday, April 09, 2009

Early Springtime on Long Island

The daffodils are in bloom!

Wednesday, April 08, 2009

Chico in 2005


chico 2005, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

May you rest in peace....

Sunday, April 05, 2009

Our friend, "Chico"

~~~
Our friend "Chico" is struggling on the last breaths of his life.
His name is Robert, born of Jewish Hungarian parents, in Cuba.
It's a long story, his, and it is now coming to an end.
It's a difficult time for everyone who knows and loves him.
He is currently in the loving care of Hospice and surrounded by family and friends.
We love you Chico......
~~~
Update:
Chico passed away early Monday morning, April 6th.
He died peacefully in his sleep, in the company of his wife and daughter.
~~~

Friday, March 27, 2009

first crocus


first crocus, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

March 27th on Long Island and the first crocus are up

early spring


early spring, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

The daffodils: March 27th on Long Island. In my yard this morning!
The daffodils have broken through the soil in just the last week.
They are now preparing to bloom! I can't wait!
~~~

Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Florida


Dickinson State Park, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~
Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Florida

"Close to 11,500 acres of land and river await the visitor to Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Teeming with wildlife, the park offers camping, canoeing, 
hiking and bicycling, picnicking, fresh and saltwater fishing and
 guided tours of the Loxahatchee River."
~~~

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Jupiter Lighthouse


Jupiter Lighthouse, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

Warm Florida weather and a trip to the Jupiter Lighthouse for a sunset shot....
There is something so romantic about a lighthouse. 
Its history and its connection to the sea, brings it to our hearts!
~~~

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

under the pier, Juno Beach, Florida


under the pier, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

The weather was warm but the wind was strong and cool.
Waves crashed against the pier at Juno Beach, southern Florida.

I'm back on Long Island again, and will be posting some photos from my trip to Florida!
~~~

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Loxahatchee River


Loxahatchee River, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

We've been traveling this week, so please forgive the recent laps in posting. I know I should post more often but sometimes things just get too busy.

We are here in Florida to enjoy the warm weather and the company of good friends. 

This photo here is from last year but we are visiting in the same area:
the Jonathan Dickinson State Park and the Loxahatchee River.

As soon as I return to Long Island, I will be posting some Florida photos!
~~~

Monday, March 16, 2009

Happy St. Patrick's Day


Hope you have a merry St. Patrick's Day!
We didn't go to any parades this weekend. I wanted to, as I do every year, but there were just too many unexpected events and changes in our plans. 
Also, the weather wasn't the best for photographer so I just didn't push myself to attend.
The holiday isn't over yet!
There is still tomorrow!
~~~~~~~~~~

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

montauk lighthouse


montauk light 2, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

While organizing my photos, I've created a new gallery of Iconic Long Island shots.

Landmarks and Icons of Long Island

See it here!

This is the type of photo that people often look for, to print and give as gifts. They are the "postcard" images!

My email is filled with such requests!

Personally, I don't consider these images "art", but yet, it is just the kind of iconic Long Island image that people want.

Art is so subjective, isn't it?

~~~

Saturday, March 07, 2009

Deep Hollow Ranch


Deep Hollow Ranch, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

Beautiful day today! Beautiful!!
We took a ride to Montauk Point, walked the ocean beach and it felt like early summer. 
Coats were removed because it was just too hot to walk around with a coat.
On the way home, we past the Deep Hollow Ranch. 
It was on my list of photos to take.
 Some people have "bird lists" and I have a Long Island "photo list."
√ Check √
~~~

Wednesday, March 04, 2009

Bayport in snow


Bayport in snow, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

My family has begun to ask me if I've been indoors too much.
I do not sit home all day and take photos of my furniture, or macro shots of things! 
No!
*Of course not, family!*
Yesterday, the sun was out and even though it was cold, the sun has begun to take on its spring-like personality to warm us up.
Before you know it, the snow will melt!
Yeah!
~~~

Tuesday, March 03, 2009

snow storm '09


snow storm '09, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

We haven't seen snow like this on Long Island in a long time!

Today the sun is out and I'll be out there taking nice snowy, sunny photos!

Monday, March 02, 2009

the sofa


the sofa, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

I've had this sofa for over 10 years now. It still looks like new. One thing you learn when raising two young boys: Don't buy solid or light colors. Of course when I bought this they were already grown, but it is holding up really well. 

Why am I photographing furniture? 
Well, we had lots of snow last night. Lots! Maybe 12 inches. 
I may go outside later but right now I needed to photograph something. It's an addiction I think.

~~~

Saturday, February 28, 2009

book shelves


book shelves, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

The theme is travel, so my little idol from Central America is guarding the books.
Getting ready for warmer weather, the NYC book is waiting.
~~~

Monday, February 23, 2009

Gerbera Daisy


Gerbera Daisy, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Another cold day photo activity: macro shot of a newly bought Gerbera Daisy!

Sunday, February 22, 2009

The Flamboya Tree


Flamboya Tree, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

I read this book in just a few days. Excellent.
The Flamboya Tree by Clara Olink Kelly
It's a true story about war-time courage, a mother and her children.
You will realize how little you can do without, as long as you have family.
It's not a pleasant story so don't read it if you are easily depressed, but it is a true story.
Stories like this only make me stronger and give me a reason to appreciate life.
~~~
The pear has nothing to do with the book, but I wanted to create a still-life with similar colors and interesting light.
~~~

Saturday, February 21, 2009

mardi gras mask


mardi gras mask, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

Getting ready for the day, Mardi Gras, (or Fat Tuesday) this February 24th.
Traditionally it is the last day to feast before Lent in the Catholic religion.
What excesses would you be willing to give up?
I don't know how many people still follow this practice. I imagine worldwide, it is still very much part of people's lives and culture.
For one thing, the Fat Tuesday part is very popular. One big party, carnivals, parades, costumes, and lots of food and alcohol, are part of the celebration.
Do those same people cut back for the 6 weeks until Easter?
Me? I'm always holding back on what I eat or drink. I have to!
If I didn't, I would weigh 300 lbs.
Maybe, I'll give up chocolate this time. Ummmm, maybe not.
~~~

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

rainbow cd


rainbow cd, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

An experiment of color and light
I wanted to create my own little rainbow on this dreary day.

Remember ROYGBIV?

  • Red
  • Orange
  • Yellow
  • Green
  • Blue
  • Indigo
  • Violet

~~~~

Monday, February 16, 2009

Patchogue Gazebo


Patchogue Gazebo, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

View west from Shorefront Park, Patchogue, NY

The Great South Bay was semi-frozen and there was no wind.

Standing in Patchogue's Shorefront Park, looking west, the gazebo is reflected in the bay.

A fog was rolling in and the mist over the melting ice gave an eerie color to it all.

~~~

Lighting from Above


flower macro crop, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

On very cold days, or windy, or gray days, when outdoor photography is just not an option, indoor macro is the next best thing. This flower was lit from above and is sitting in front of black velvet, taken with a macro lens.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Cat's Cradle


Cat's Cradle, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
~~~

Just a little macro project to keep myself busy. 
It was windy today so I needed to find an indoor project that was fun. 
(I could always clean out a closet or something, but what fun is that?)

1 - a pocket
2 - something in the pocket
3 - a title from the list of 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die.

This book, Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut
~~~

Monday, February 09, 2009

Connetquot State Park


Connetquot State Park, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

The entrance to Connetquot River State Park and Preserve
~~~
A beautiful place to walk on a snowy winter's day.
Six dollar parking, or free with the Empire Pass, this park is one special place.
Read about it Here!
You can see wildlife, the Connetquot River and a little bit of history.
Check out the mill house, estate and the fish hatchery.
Even on a cold winter day, your eyes will be pleased.
~~~

Friday, February 06, 2009

Deer on Fire Island

deer on FI

There are signs everywhere, "Do NOT feed the deer!"
Do people listen? Of course not. They think the deer are so cute.
When I took this shot, there was a family with some very small children and they were petting and feeding the deer.
Don't they know the deer carry Lyme's Disease carrying ticks?
The deer also get used to humans and then run to their cars and become a nuisance.
Do NOT feed the deer on Fire Island! 
~~~

Thursday, February 05, 2009

frozen pond


frozen pond, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

East Pond in Oakdale, Long Island, NY, just east of the Connetquot River

Tuesday, February 03, 2009

Fire Island Lighthouse


FI Lighthouse, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

The lighthouse on a clear winter day on Fire Island
Cold winter days bring out the crisp colors and clear sky

Sunday, February 01, 2009

icy shore in Sayville


icy shore in Sayville, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

The icy shore in Sayville, Long Island, with the partially frozen Great South Bay.
We walked along the beach today. It didn't seem to be too cold, yet the bay was frozen for quite some way out into the center. No ice boats visible but I will check again, later on this week. Stay tuned......

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

snow on branches


snow on branches, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Another snowy day on Long Island.
I'm fortunate in that I can stay indoors today and not travel to work.
My heart goes out to those who have job lay-offs.
I hope the economy picks up soon!

Saturday, January 24, 2009

Too cold to to get out...


Too cold to to get out..., originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Too cold to to get out of the car...

It was also very windy too...

This is the town of Patchogue, at the entrance to the river.
~~~~

Winter is Dead


Winter is Dead, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Winter may be dead here at the cemetery...but not on Long Island!
We are right in the middle of our winter with snow and cold breezes.
Let's hope the sun shines and the snow melts.
~~~~

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

fresh snowfall


fresh snowfall, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Back to the snow and a beautiful morning......

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Hammock Heaven


the dock, hammock heaven, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

I'm home now but dreaming about the warm weather and wonderful diving I experienced in Roatan.
I took photos of the snow yesterday, and later today, before I watch the inauguration, I'll process some of those photos.
~~~

Monday, January 19, 2009

4 chairs


4 chairs, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.
Roatan, Honduras on the beach

A relaxing place to sit after a dive, but early before the mosquitoes attack!

We had some rainy weather while there and the mosquitoes and no-see-ums were voracious!
It's good to be away and it's even better to be back home on Long Island.
The neighborhood looks so beautiful covered with snow. 
Crystal white and bright!
~~~

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Scuba over Mr. Bud


Mr. Bud, a fishing vessel, 90 ft. in length and 70 ft. deep in the water.
Roatan, Honduras
~~~~~~~~~~

Roatan, Honduras

 

Roatan, Honduras
This traveling Long Island Woman is here in Roatan.
 A slow internet connection but still a connection to the world!
Isn't the web wonderful?!
~~~~~~~~~~

Monday, January 05, 2009

Pottery

Just playing with color and light.
This is the folk art pattern that was so popular. I still have a few pieces that I love to use. So solid and useful.
~~~~~~~~~~

Saturday, January 03, 2009

beach fence


beach fence, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

~~~

Nickerson Beach in winter
A snow/sand dune fence is there for protection from the winter wind.
~~~
There is something so calming about the beach in winter.
No crowds, lots of birds, and only the sound of wind and waves.

The wind will blow and destroy the beach. 
The protective fences help, and add a certain "winter formal" look to an otherwise naked beach.
~~~

Thursday, January 01, 2009

Sunrise 2009


sunrise 2009, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

January 1st, 2009 at sunrise
~~~
I awoke to a new year, 2009. The temperature outside was 10°F and it was very windy. 
There was ice and snow on the roadways.
My usual New Years Day trip to the beach was put on hold.
Plan B: taking sunrise shots near my house! It really was beautiful!
~~~
I was just a little disappointed but decided that the beach would have had too much sand and ocean-spray blowing over us....bad for the camera and me! I could stand the cold but the wind makes it too uncomfortable. My husband decided to stay in bed.

It turned out to be a beautiful morning. I couldn't walk far, nor did I want to, but just around the neighborhood was magical. 
The pond and canal were beginning to freeze up but the birds were busy at the bird feeders 
and in the holly trees.
 I was the only one out there and loved it!

Enjoy your day and remember that we got to see a new year. 
That's amazing in itself and should be celebrated!
~~~