THEME DAY-CHANGES

As day changes into night, the transition isn't smooth. Though the inevitable must occur, the day does not give up without a fight. We are all the beneficiaries of that battle.Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST

Just one last look at our favorite Manatee mailbox. We have featured this guy decked out in all manner of costumes appropriate for each holiday. Have fun tonight but be careful. There are enough crazies out there without you adding to their numbers. Happy New Year to each and every one of you. Best wishes for the best of all possible new years.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

While I did not take this picture nor do I know who did, I felt it appropriate to upload it today. A very Merry Christmas to all of you! May the peace that transcends all understand rest upon you and yours.

MOOSE CROSSING

Here's another creature I caught wandering around town. He wasn't with yesterday's animal but he was out of place, nevertheless. With the cold weather in the North, any creature with a credit card is heading South. Can't say as I blame them. He really needs to work on his tan.

IN DESPERATE NEED OF SUNBLOCK

You know how you always see Santa's sleigh being pulled by reindeer about the size of a real deer or perhaps a small horse. Well, I have it on good authority that the real reindeer employed by S. Claus, Inc., are considerable larger. I happened to see one of them just the other day. He was vacationing here prior to the 'big event.' That whole Rudolph thing is starting to make a lot more sense now.

FLY INTO THE DANGER ZONE...

This little guy flew into our yard the other day. He spent about 20 minutes watching me watch him. I politely asked from whence he came and by what name he favors. He remained silent but focused and reticent till his departure. If anyone out there knows his family name, please let me know. I can't say that I've seen his kind before.

HERE'S LOOKING AT YOU, KID

This is certainly not your everyday truck. This one has character, personality, and a whole lot of charm. The paint job is right out of Spray-Paint 101, no air brushing on this baby. It's also very easy to find in a parking lot.

HE OVER STATES THE OBVIOUS

I have displayed more than a few shots on this web sight that were taken in cemeteries. They contain beautiful sculpture, touching verse, and the occasional oddity. The above shot defies convention. The dearly departed is sending a message to the living. Enlarge the photo and read the inscription in the lower right corner. Truer words were never spoken.

SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR

I don't really know what to say about this statue. The owner must not have been happy gazing upon the sculptor's work and felt the need to embellish it. And that, he did. I cleaned up the image a tad to allow viewing by all age groups. I had to use Photoshop since I was unable to find a fig leaf. I don't suppose any of you have something similar in your backyards? I thought not.

IN THE OCTOPUS'S GARDEN IN THE SHADE...

Many people go to great lengths to decorate their homes at this time of year. I'm sure many of you have seen Santa in his sled being pulled by 'Ole Red Nose' and the boys (they were actually girls, you know;the 'boys' shed their antlers in winter but not the girls). But I digress. I bet none of you have seen a Christmas Octopus. Well now you have. Kind of makes you wonder what Halloween might have been like.

OSTER SHREDDER

Another one of Those weird pieces of "Modern Art." Looks rather interesting from afar. Not quite sure what, or if, it represents. I believe it looks like a combination of a paper-shredder and a blender.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS

Many people have made inquiries as to where I originally hail from. Well, I really am not permitted to say. Some have hinted that it is "not from around here," and, no, I have never been in New Mexico. At least not around Roswell. I will show you a shot I took on returning from home. I took this just before reentry (I mean landing). So there you have it. I hope that answers all your questions. Oklahoma is lovely this time of year.

THE DETROIT LIONS

While walking around downtown the other day, I came across these lions arguing. Seems they were about to play basketball but they each wanted to play with their respective basketballs. The were hissing and snarling at each other;and the language the were using. Finally, I had enough. "Have some 'pride' I screamed." "They'll be her shortly," they retorted.

TROMPE L'OEIL, MY DEAR?

The more I get around this city, the more murals I discover. They really seem to be everywhere. The work above is one of my most favorite. Do yourself a favor, click it and be amazed. The perspective is incredible. While my French leaves much to be desired, I believe this is a real 'trompe l'oeil.'

KNIGHT TO SEE YOU AGAIN

I was taking some photos the other day and came upon this tree. I really liked the way the light was reflecting off the trunk. I must have looked suspicious because the owner of the house came out and was ready to defend it at all cost. You can tell he means business just by looking at him. So, I got back in my Yugo and retreated to my own castle. I may be gone for a day or two as both my Commodore 64 and "Trash 80" have been removed from life support. The new 'Black Box' arrives today and it may take me more than a day to get it up to speed. Those new IBM PC's can be pretty tough on the floppy disks.

VOISIN BIENVENU

We have many Canadians that visit South Florida at this time of year. They are wonderful people in spite of their strange accents. They, also, bring with them a few strange habits. Being of hardy stock and great lovers of the outdoors, they enjoy being in nature as much as possible. While we Americans are a tolerant lot, we must put our collective feet down. Please, bathe indoors. Aye!

WALL TO WALL, WALL

I came across this mural by chance. While out in search of what, I can't remember, I ran into this very strange work;almost primitive by most "mural" standards. It certainly got my attention. You may want to click the image for a better view.

STOCKING STUFFER

I love cars that look like they're moving when standing still. The Audi R8 pictured fits that description perfectly. Just sitting at a parking meter it might get a speeding ticket. The U.S. version checks in with a 420 H.P. engine capable of speeds in excess of 180 MPH;very practical in a state where the top speed limit is 70 MPH. But hey, who said anything about practicality? It gets about 12 MPG city and 18 MPG on the highway. I guess that explains why it's not available in "Green."

I'LL MEET YOU BY THE RED CHAIR

I am confused when looking at some modern art. Take the above piece which resides in front of a downtown office building. It is Modern, obviously not part of the 16th, 17th, or even the 18th or 19th centuries. One look tells you it is somewhere between one month and 10 years old. Kind of makes you wonder what people will think of it and similar pieces in the not too distant future. Just down the street, is a wonderful exhibition of Norman Rockwell's works. I think I may rest in this chair before heading down to see it.;if I can just find the missing cushion.

I CAN'T GET NO RELIEF...

I came across this Relief on an, otherwise, unassuming house. I thought the way the Sun light interacted with the color of the wall made for an interesting photo. At any rate, It is obvious what the address is.

SLIP OUT THE BACK, JACK

Just a few more hours and they'll be safe. Best holiday wishes to all!

BLACK CLOUD

Sometimes life just isn't fair. After a horrendous night's sleep, I got out of bed, tripped over the dog, stumbled into the kitchen only to find that we were out of coffee. Well, 'it can't get any worse', I said to myself as I headed out to get my morning paper. I guess you can tell how the rest of the day went from the photo of my car. Yep! No paper, either.

A BEAUTIFUL DAY FOR A SAIL

Here is a photo of a man, a dog, and a giant kite. It's actually a pavilion in the downtown area. It plays host to Art Fairs, Exhibitions, music, Octoberfest celebrations, and the ubiquitous Christmas Carolers. I think the dog is just happy no one is around to bother him.

MR. CLEAN

Just another of those very strange dogs of Michigan. I don't have access to my house for a couple of days, so back into the archives I go. This particular guy was just finishing sprucing up his house when I asked if I could take his picture. He said he wouldn't mind but he looked a little 'ruff' at the moment.

WHAT RECESSION?

So, here is what was opposite yesterday's post. The Oasis Of The Seas. She is the newest and largest cruise ship in the world. This photo was taken thru a fence with dogs nipping at my heals. Security is rather tight in the port these days, making closer shots difficult. She arrived four days ago from Finland. Her maiden voyage will be on December 5. She has a crew of 2,165, 16 decks, a carousel, an Aqua Theater, a mini golf course, 4 swimming pools, a park with 1200 plants and 56 trees to name but a few of the attractions. The photo below (taken by Amy Bennett) shows her arrival into port. If you click the above link, you will be directed to the official Oasis site with more photos and videos. In case you happen to be wondering what her price tag was, try $1.5 billion U.S. Even I can't think of anything to say after that.

NO HOLIDAY DELIVERY?

I came upon this mailbox by accident. While shooting tomorrow's post, I turned around to find this pretty strange mailbox. Very patriotic and certainly one of a kind. I wonder if the people who live here get preferential treatment? Come back tomorrow to see what he is staring at.

GROUND CONTROL TO MAJOR TOM

I have always been fascinated by cemeteries. No, I am not obsessed with death or the dead. Rather, I find great beauty in the myriad of statues most cemeteries seem to have. The above example does not fit into that category. This, if you can believe it, sits atop someone's final resting place. A lover of aviation? Maybe. A modern metaphor? Why not!

AIRMAIL

A somewhat stoic figure, this Pelican seemed attentive to my every move. I guess the mailman would simply drop a fish in front of him. While he bends down to pick it up, shove the days posts into the box and take off. A pretty good plan but a lot of fish. On another note, A salute to all our Veterans for their service to our country. Thank you for a job well done.

FISHING FOR AN ANSWER

Here is another unusual mailbox. How they ever got the Tarpon to stand like that and balance a mailbox on it's nose, I'll never know.

NOT YOUR USUAL FISH TAIL

Another interesting addition to the "Unusual Mailbox" series. Not a lot of commentary is needed for this one.

WHERE'S THE OCEAN?

Another of the many ways to see the city. A popular tourist vehicle that can show you around town, give you a little history, and not get lost or have to ask for directions. We locals are very grateful for that.

NOT A SAAB STORY

There are many strange costumes people put on for Halloween. I showed you mine a few days ago. While out searching for candy, I noticed many folks had their pets in tow. Some were in costumes having fun with their owners. I struck up a conversation with the fellow above. He said he was just visiting from Sweden and had no idea what was going on. I inquired about his costume and he gave me a quizzical look and said, "What costume?" Ah, Halloween.

CHEERS!

Adjusting to the heat and humidity has taken it's toll especially when you have savored the cool Lake Michigan breezes all summer. Fort Lauderdale is steamy and oppressive. While walking down the street the other day, I felt parched and in need of an adult beverage. I stopped in the above establishment for a bit of rejuvenation. You may want to click the photo to get a better look at the pub's slogan. I was greeted by all sorts of interesting characters who, after awhile, didn't want me to leave. Before I knew it, days had past by and I had to return to the Fort Lauderdale Daily Photo Newsroom to put out the next edition. They were sad to see me go but they said they would be there tomorrow, the next day, and ...

UP ON THE ROOF

Just another of the many Vose Murals that cover our city. This one needs a little touch up. I would offer to help but I am having trouble getting out of my Halloween costume of yesterday. With all his talent, he surely doesn't need much help. On the other hand, I do. This mural graces a hotel on the beach. I would assume it is one of his earlier works since it has some fading and weathering. Still a beautiful piece of work.

TRICK OR TREAT OR ELSE

Halloween is one of the more popular holidays in my neck of the woods. There are many parties and lots of public events in addition to the usual door to door candy grabs. People go to great lengths to outdo each other. They work for months designing the perfect costume. I, on the other hand, just go into my closet and pull out the first thing I see. This is my outfit for the big day. If you see me at your door, say hello. It is rather hard to see out from inside it. Better yet, come out and join me. It should be a lot of fun.

I'M GREEN WITH ENVY

After a long car ride and a sedentary summer, it helps to get out and stretch a little bit. I think it is a wonderful, healthy thing to do. Not for me, you understand. I would rather take photos of people exercising than actually do it myself. The person above, for instance. It is a sweltering 90 degrees and he is the 'picture' of health;albeit a rather stiff picture.

THE AGE OF AQUARIUM

Well Dorothy, we're not in Kansas (Michigan) anymore. We arrived back home to face 87 degree Fall weather. Not a single leaf has changed color and there is no squash of any kind in the grocery store. The land of 'perpetual summer', South Florida, is open for business once again. The above mural, for instance, would seem so out of place in the North. Yet here, in sunny Fort Lauderdale, it is quite common place. I even saw some kids trying to feed the fish.

HAPPY TRAILS

The fire-hydrant has a red flag so it will be visible during the winter. The top of the flag should be higher than the accumulated snow, historically speaking. Last year's snowfall was exceptional. Thus, the new marker to make the hydrant more visible should this year's be as bad. The days are getting shorter and the temperature is dropping. The time has come to head back to sunny Fort Lauderdale and avoid the white stuff. I hope you enjoyed my Michigan summer and some of the beautiful and unusual sights along the way. Will be back with you after the trip south. Hope to see you then.

KNOCK, KNOCK-PART II

Just another of those strange things that people put in front of their homes. Really no story to accompany the photo, just a lot of questions. Enjoy your weekend!

REAL STREET ART

It is more than amazing the things you can see if you just open your eyes. While taking a walk the other day, we happened to look down on the path and found this beautiful chalk drawing. I'm sure it took some effort and time to create. The elements will combine to afford it a brief life. The artist was aware of it. And yet, here it is;preserved forever in digital memory banks. While it may not be of museum quality, it sure gave rise to many different thoughts and emotions within me. Art really is all around us;in museums, galleries, nature, and right below our feet.

MOM, CAN I KEEP HIM?

When you grow up in a city, most of the wildlife you are exposed to are confined to zoos. I grew up like that. This summer has been an eye opener for me in so many ways. Coming in contact with all kinds of animals and birds has been quite an eye opener. This little guy showed up in our backyard the other day. After staring at each other for awhile, it dawned on me that we were both being enlightened. Sort of alien contact;not quite "E.T. phone home," but you get the picture.

GOOD MORNING MR. PHELPS

We were walking in the downtown section of a neighboring town the other day. There were a number of people with fishing rods standing along a small bridge railing. We went over to see what they could possible be doing. Much to our amazement, they were fishing for salmon. This is in a populated section of downtown. These marvelous fish were doing their best to get upstream to do what salmon do. The water was rushing so fast, I did not see one make it up the falls while we were watching. I have seen salmon swimming upstream in the Pacific Northwest but in Michigan? Like I always say, you learn something here every day at City Daily Photo.

KNOCK, KNOCK

I came across this statue on someone's door step. I thought it was rather interesting. I don't believe it once belonged to a tobacconist;too large for that. This area has a large population of Native Americans' belonging to the Odawa Tribe. I have no idea what he is holding in his hand. Any politically correct suggestions would be welcome.

IN 1492, COLUMBUS SAILED THE OCEAN BLUE

This is a replica of The Nina, one of the three ships to set sail for the New World. Most people are familiar with that fact. Few are aware, however, the real name of the ship was Santa Clara. She made landfall in The Bahamas at daybreak on October 12, 1492. The rest, as they say, is history.

TOO MANY NOS

They forgot to add, No Fun!

CAMELOT REVISITED

It's not often the King is seen in public. He is usually absorbed in the affairs of state. There are those times, however, when even royalty has to escape. Given the opportunity, King Gourd likes to get out and mingle with his subjects. The people all seem to love him. He is very approachable. Though his station in life is quite lofted, the people see themselves in him and are pleased. After all, he really is one of them.

BORN GREEN

I am constantly amazed by the sundry things people put in their front yards. I spotted this rather unusual looking topiary while taking a ride in the country. It appears to be a rabbit with some sort of a cowboy Sponge Bob thing on his back. I have no idea of the significance or meaning or anything, for that matter, of it. If anyone has any insight, it would be greatly appreciated. It certainly pays to have a camera with you since you never know what is around the next bend.

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY-WHAT YOU MAKE IT

LET THERE BE LIGHT

While walking down the street the other day, I came across this feature on a house. I thought it was rather unusual. I gather it is a mini-lighthouse with a very nice weather vane. Who ever owns the home must get as much pleasure from it as the casual passer-by. It is rather unique and offers a lot of eye appeal. A lovely touch to any roof line.