Viewing Vancouver's summer fireworks from my deck, in company with some good friends, has been a highlight as I gather my photo gear and finalise all the details for my big trip.  I am trying not to bring "the kitchen sink" as I attempt to pack for all climates and all social scenes.  All thirteen flights are organised, and I know where I will sleep every night for the next two months.  Too many different beds to count!

6 am in Melbourne

I was in Australia for three months last winter (their summer).  From these images, taken at that time, you can see that my favourite subjects are trees (roots, stumps, branches, you name it, I love trees), birds of all kinds, animals (preferably in the wild) and flowers.  All flowers are beautiful.  I also take many photos of family and friends, which I share by making books and calendars.  A special joy is being able to capture gorgeous light.

A eucalypt (gum) tree in Sydney

Southern BooBook owl fledgling - we disturbed a pair of them in the bright midday light

Seals taking a nap on Kangaroo Island

Huge pelicans congregate along the shores of  South Australia

These iris-type flowers are prolific in urban Melbourne

Getting ready for Southern Africa

Vancouver - home, sweet home - the view from my deck

First post of my new blog.  I'm looking forward to going next month to South Africa, Namibia and Botswana, after visiting friends and family in England.  It's a "dream trip" and I'm getting my photography gear up to speed.