Day 366 - As the sun sets on 2008 . . .

I wish each of you a

~~ Happy New Year ~~

and great photographic opportunities in 2009!

Day 365 - Flat top tree

This trees in one of the shopping centers in Frederick got a severe trim this year, leaving a bunch of flat top trees like this one.

Day 364 - The corn field revisited

My post yesterday and the one December 14 have caused some confusion. There is still a lot of corn in the field to harvest. I took both these photos from a low angle to get the sky with a lone stalk. The harvester on December 14 took a couple trips around the field and then started back and forth at the far end. He then quit as it was getting dark and has not returned. A construction company bought this farm in 1986. The dairy operation ceased several years after and the fields have been planted and harvested by various people in different years. About 15 years ago, there was a proposal to develop this farm and others nearby with 1200 additional homes. First traffic congestion; and then the county's development fees (to pay for schools, roads, etc.) halted this plan. Farms on the other side of the river, now in Frederick City, have been developed and now have major housing developments, a shopping center, Wal-Mart, and other businesses. The land in this picture is still zoned agricultural and we hope to enjoy the rural view for years to come. Yesterday's sunset picture was taken in the edge of the field near the tree seen on the right of this one.

Day 363 - Sunset from the cornfield

A lot of changes in the sky today with clouds and strong winds. Here is the end of the day.

Day 362 - Our house at night

We opted for simple outside decorations this year.

Day 361 - Crowded perch

Always room for one more.

Day 360 - Christmas at our house

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Just a few shots from our house this Christmas day. We opened our presents and Christmas cards, talked to our kids and grandkids, and ate a delicious ham dinner. A throughly enjoyable day!

Dining room

Flowers from my daughter

Ornaments from my sister

A sample of the tree

More of the tree

Only the train remains under the tree

Day 359 - Waiting for Santa

Both of our cats like to snooze under the tree. Tonight Buster had established himself as the lookout for Santa. Below is the Santa Express that runs circles around the tree.

Day 358 - Christmas in Frederick

A few photos of decorations taken while driving through the old section of Frederick City.

Day 357 - Mouse and Santa's cookies

One of the mice that decorate our tree.