Level 1

Cowboy Days

If not for the people in the background, one could believe this was a step back in time. I liked the seriousness of these two men.

Mission Santa Barbara

I awoke in the middle of the night to drive to Santa Barbara before dawn. I was determined to arrive on time.

Early morning at the mission

The lights no longer glow, but California's golden sun shines on Mission Santa Barbara in the early morning.

Hotel Ala Mar, Santa Barbara

One of the strangest places I've ever stayed, but right on the beach.

Aquarium of the Pacific

The boys caught my eye; the gesture sealed the deal. The ray was good enough to pose as well.

An Egyptian exhibit at the Reagan Library

I studied Classical Archaeology at Michigan. How can I not include some reference to my youth? I like the simplicity of this image.

Blacksmith at Calico Ghost Town

While not a perfect shot, it pleases me because I dared strike up a conversation with Klaus. Perhaps I find people more interesting than art.

1939 Bugatti at the Petersen Automotive Museum

I have zillions of shots of this car, so it was hard to choose. Even now I'm wondering if I picked the right image. The Bugatti speaks sensual power. It's lines are fantastic!

Guo Pei gown on display at the Bowers Museum

My goal was to move as far as possible to the side of this display. I wanted to see the swirl of fabric and the twist of the body.

Forte Verde, Arizona

Somehow I stumbled on a local celebration at Forte Verde. I also dared creep close enough to snap this image of the scouts raising the flag. I've included it because I like the kids dwarfed by the huge banner. What does it say about the US today?

A dead rose

Of all my flower images, I still like this rose. How can it be so dead and yet still on the bush?

Lily

I include this , too, because it's recent. The only appeal it has for me is that it doesn't look like a flower.