When the playing's done

Our son, daughter-in-law, and 2 year old grandson escaped winter's (rather loose) grip to come and visit us for a couple of weeks. Of course that entails visits to any place with slides and swings and things like that. Amidst the countless captures of family (naturally) there were also the occasional moments to capture a very brief moment of solitude:

(18-55mm  f5.6  1/50 sec  ISO200)

Now I couldn't let this opportunity pass without letting you have a peek at who's driving the daily agenda around here:

(70-200mm  f5.6  1/160 sec  ISO200)

A momentary pause

Hello faithful bloggers,

Our winter abode in the subtropics has become a magnet for friends and family. Our popularity has risen in direct proportion to the local temperature. I have surfaced briefly to let you know I'm still here. While I have still found opportunities to make photos, opportunities to visit and post have been limited. I do hope to visit you over the next few days before our next guests arrive and I fade from blogland like the sun at the end of the day.

Overheard

"Hey, looks like something interesting going on down there."

"Sam, what do you think ?"
 
"I don't know, Charlie; do you think we should go check it out ?"

"Well you two can sit here talking all day; I'm getting hungry !"

"Hmmm, the grasshoppers DO look greener on the other side !"

"Eenie, meenie, miney, mo ..." "Aw, forget it; last one down's a dirty rotten egg !"

"That figures - Art's always last; what a birdbrain !"

"Finally ! Now I've got this side all to myself !"

It Came Upon A Midnight Clear ...

... the idea to get out for a few night shots, that is.

With everyone already in bed, and the night still young, and fresh snow on the ground, there was no compelling reason not to take advantage of an opportunity to capture the serenity. Sasha didn't need a second invitation and we set off into the crisp night air. It seemed like we were the only ones on the planet.

It's a pity if you've never ventured out on a beautiful winter's night.

If you have a few moments to linger, listen to the music (click on play button below the last photo) as you step into the peaceful night.

(all photos shot with a 10-22mm lens at f7.1, ISO200, with shutter speeds from 6 to 30 sec)