Illustrated Excursions

Thanksgiving Video for Jing

2007-11-22T21:40:00.000-05:00

Crocus Open at the Triphammer Mall

2007-04-14T15:45:00.000-05:00

After lunch, I noticed some crocus popping up around the outside of the Triphammer Mall.

Ubehebe Crater

2007-01-02T20:30:00.000-05:00

Ubehebe Crater can be dangerous. Don't believe me? Just ask Isabelle. (Death Valley)

Valley of Death

2007-01-01T20:29:00.000-05:00

Wind blown dunes.

Here's the view from the largest dune. We're probably close to 1 mile into the dune field at this point and walking in deep sand isn't easy.

Our car is parked somewhere along that road in the distance.

Badwater Basin, one of the lowest points on Earth.

Taking a closer look at the salt out in the valley.

Artists Palette is a colorful combination of various types of minerals.

More Joshua Trees

2006-12-31T20:28:00.000-05:00

A dead, yet beautiful tree, on a trail that's not often used by Joshua Tree tourists.

Joshua Trees

2006-12-30T20:27:00.000-05:00

Yeah...it hurts.

It's easy for me to become emotionally attached to some of the trees in this park.

Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best places for rock climbing. This guy had plenty of equipment, whereas I usually just use my hands. Then again, I could never scale that peak!

From Beach to Desert

2006-12-29T20:25:00.000-05:00

I tried to catch this bird feeding in the bay beside Seaport Village, but he was too fast.

A cool looking bird near seal beach in La Jolla. We felt rushed the day before, so we came back for another look.

We pulled over to take a look at some cacti in a California State Park between San Diego and Palm Springs.

Sea World and La Jolla Beach, San Diego

2006-12-28T21:21:00.000-05:00

Flamingos hanging out at Sea World, San Diego.

Enjoying the view at La Jolla Cove.

La Jolla beach, San Diego.

I can't believe this is December.

Sunset and waves at La Jolla Beach.

The awesomeness that is La Jolla.

Friends

2006-12-27T20:25:00.000-05:00

Chillin' on the set of "Friends".

Anybody know whose cup this is?

Back in California: Hollywood and Santa Monica

2006-12-26T20:22:00.000-05:00

Outside the Chinese theater with the rest of the tourists.

Playing with a palm leaf in Santa Monica.

Christmas 2006

2006-12-25T19:47:00.000-05:00

Grandmom and Michelle share a moment.

Christmas Eve 2006

2006-12-24T19:36:00.000-05:00

Ryan and Michele get into the spirit of the Nintendo Wii on Christmas Eve.

Great Adventure

2006-09-24T20:02:00.000-05:00

Three little piggies.

I knew Jing would like roller coasters as much as me!

Hiking in Michigan Hollow

2006-05-07T13:03:00.000-05:00

Vegetation like this is returning in great numbers along the Finger Lakes Trail off Michigan Hollow Road.

The water level of the creek was quite low, making it easier to spot fish like this one.

Here are two water striders mating. I bet you haven't seen this before.

Slope Day 2006

2006-05-05T13:00:00.000-05:00

Relaxing on the quad after Ben Folds finished his set on Slope Day 2006.

I was exhausted from staying up all night the day before, not from Slope Day festivities.

Shepherd's Pie

2006-05-01T12:54:00.000-05:00

Mmm...shepherd's pie, hot out of the oven!

First Arboretum Trip of the Spring

2006-04-29T13:33:00.000-05:00

I was thrilled to see that bloodroot has sprouted again in the Arboretum -- and just where I saw it last spring!

This was my first photographic journey through the Cornell Arboretum this spring.

More bloodroot.

A closeup of a beautiful specimen, scattered with pollen.

Of all the geese I've seen, this is the first time I've seen their offspring -- here at Grossman Pond.

The chicks search for food as their mother stands guard.

Two tadpoles swim around a lillypad which has not yet reached the surface of the pond.

A lonely goose walks around Houston Pond.

On my walk back to the Jeep, I met a new friend.

Holy Mary, Mother of God

2006-04-27T11:54:00.000-05:00

Holy Mary, Mother of God (Magnolias in bloom at Sage Chapel)

Trees are near full bloom all over campus. These are located along the pedestrian walk leading up to the clocktower.

A few redbud trees guard the end of the pedestrian walkway.

Some awesome residences overlooking the gorge near the law school.

The same scene taken with different camera settings. I love the color of the leaves.

The Birds

2006-04-19T22:17:00.000-05:00

This evening I took several photographs on my way to Collegetown. I paid special attention to birds. This bird, which is not a robin, I have never seen before.

Here's a similar bird with its mate. They were chirping and fighting with each other just before I snapped this photo.

This sparrow was perched peacefully in a nearby tree.

Much further along in my walk, I spotted another, possibly a different species of sparrow.

I found it interesting that the flowers in this cluster next to WSH were each a slightly different color.

Taking a Break from the Lab

2006-04-18T11:12:00.000-05:00

A bumblebee buzzing around some Phlox near Day Hall.

Whoa!!!

A spider had set a very clever trap on this daffodil outside Gannett.

Closeup of the spider and his web. Also notice the pollen on the daffodil.

Happy Easter

2006-04-16T11:07:00.000-05:00

The closest I could get to a home-cooked meal up here in Ithaca.

Spring is Back in Ithaca

2006-04-15T10:41:00.000-05:00

Jing and I took a walk through Mundy Wildflower Garden, the Herb Garden and past Hemlock Gorge by Beebe Lake. Here are some pictures.

Extreme closeup.

The Mundy Wildflower Garden is once again springing to life.

I take photography very seriously!

These three flowers have sprouted at the base of the stairs at the Herb Garden.

Closeup of some pollen.

Jing gets acquainted with some of the plants around the Herb Garden.

Always hold your camera tightly.

Rhododendrons were not yet in bloom.

All dressed up in heels and fishing in Beebe Lake.

This backyard in Forest Home borders Fall Creek at Hemlock Gorge, as it empties into Beebe Lake.

Reflection of Forsythia on Fall Creek.

A red stair approaches the creek from the backyard of a Forest Home residence.

Jing in New York City

2006-03-18T19:27:00.000-05:00

The best thing I can say about our New York City trip is that I had an opportunity to take this adorable picture of Jing.

Snow Hiking

2006-03-04T19:21:00.000-05:00

Snow covered farms near Varna, NY.

50th Annual Biophysical Conference, Salt Lake City, Utah: Last Day

2006-02-23T12:33:00.000-05:00

Lucy (left) and Jing (right) meet up with me in downtown Salt Lake City after some shopping.

Jing poses in front of the Mormon Temple.

Jing checks out of the Radisson Hotel after a couple of intense days of talks and discussions.

50th Annual Biophysical Conference, Salt Lake City, Utah: Day Before Last

2006-02-22T12:08:00.000-05:00

The Mormon Meeting House in Temple Square, Downtown Salt Lake City, Utah.

The Mormon Temple in Temple Square. Only "worthy" members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints are permitted entry.

The sun setting against a tall building in the downtown area.

Jing poses at the Gateway Center, a large outdoor shopping area built for the 2002 Winter Olympics.

Several Olympic torches still burn at the Gateway Center. Every hour at this location, a giant water fountain displays a show to music.

First Shave in Years...

2006-02-14T18:46:00.000-05:00

Oh God, what have I done?

Jammin'

2006-02-07T18:15:00.000-05:00

Jing gets acquainted with the E chord.

Hiking @ Ringing Rocks Park

2005-12-29T12:32:00.000-05:00

Ringing Rocks Park in Upper Black Eddy, PA. Supposedly, even geologists cannot fully explain why these rocks make a sustained ringing sound when tapped with a hammer or other rocks.

Water designs in the creek which flows through the park.

Tiny waterfalls cascade through the rocks.

A Day & Night Out on the Town w/Jing

2005-12-26T00:25:00.000-05:00

A SEPTA train approaches the R7 station in Levittown, headed toward Center City Philadelphia.

The roof of the Kimmel Center on Broad St., where the Philadelphia Orchestra plays.

Jing and I saw the Nutcracker ballet at the Academy of Music on Broad St. This is the curtain before the show.

Jing and I on the steps of the Franklin Institute. We returned to see Harry Potter on one of the most advanced IMAX theaters in the world, but alas! It was sold out!

City Hall from West Market St.

Makin' Smores in Cosi's in Rittenhouse Square.

Jing trying on a $240 coat along Walnut St.

The paparazzi must have taken this photo as I was coming out of my dressing room.

During the holidays, the city provided colored lights to show off City Hall.

At the end of the night, Jing got on a bus for Ithaca and I took the R7 line home from Market East Station.

Christmas Eve in Philly and @ Grandmoms, 2005

2005-12-24T12:15:00.000-05:00

Jing at Love Park, Philadelphia.

The architecture of the side entrance of the Free Masons Lodge in Center City Philadelphia.

Liberty 1 and Liberty 2, the two tallest skyscrapers in Philadelphia will soon be eclipsed by a new building, scheduled to break ground in January, 2006..

The Free Mason's Lodge in Center City Philadelphia.

As you can see, I take my cheesesteaks very seriously. I enjoyed this one at Rick's in the Reading Terminal Market.

I have always liked this sculpture across from City Hall in Center City Philadelphia. The artist intended the clothespin to resemble two lovers embracing about to kiss.

Some architecture around 10th and Market St. as Jing and I walked toward Chinatown.

Oh baby! It's too bad all these bottles were gifts!

My grandmom Hall poses in front of her Christmas Tree.

From left to right: My dad, Linda (step mother), grandmom Hall, Aunt Krista, Rick, Aunt Karen, Uncle Mike.

From left to right: Me, Michele (sister), grandmom Hall, Christine (cousin), Jamie (cousin), Matt (cousin).

Gathered around the living room after opening presents -- very likely watching "A Christmas Story". From left to right: Michele (sister), Matt (cousin), Jamie (cousin), Aunt Krista, Uncle Mike, Christine (cousin), Rick, Aunt Karen.

Home For Christmas With Jing, 2005

2005-12-23T12:09:00.000-05:00

Jing, my mom and my sister Michele, moments after I arrived from Ithaca.

That evening, Jing and I went to the Franklin Institute in Philly to see the Body Worlds exhibit. Real human bodies were donated, plasticized and on display in a variety of different ways. Some were sliced in half, others had their organs exposed, some were displayed in athletic poses to show off their muscles, and there was an entire room dedicated to childbirth.

At night we met up with my old roommate Pat (right) at Ortleib's Jazzhaus on North 3rd Street.

Ortleib's.

Skiing @ Labrador Mountain, NY State

2005-12-18T12:05:00.000-05:00

Alfred (right) and I at Labrador Mountain near Cortland, NY. This was only my second time skiing and the first time in New York State.

Delicious Chinese Food in Syracuse

2005-12-17T11:55:00.000-05:00

After some hectic Christmas shopping at the Carousel Mall in Syracuse, Lucy suggested we eat at a Chinese restaurant north of the city. The duck was the best I ever had!

Left to right: Lucy, Me, Charles, Jing.

A Winter Walk Through the Cornell Plantations

2005-12-10T23:19:00.000-05:00

This tree was not far from the bench on the trail between my apartment and the Arboretum.

Virgil Mountain Summit, Finger Lakes Trail

2005-12-03T14:52:00.000-05:00

Hiked a 4.7 mile loop to the summit of Virgil Mountain today using the white-blazed Finger Lakes Trail and the orange-blazed Virgil Summit Spur Trail.

Lucy and Johannes, shortly after embarking on the journey.

I never realized Lucy was such a tree-hugger.

On the way to Virgil Mountain Summit we passed by the Greek Peak ski resort. It opened for a single day last week, but closed shortly after because most of the snow had melted. With 10 straight days of snow forecast, it will probably be opening again very soon -- and I can hardly wait!

Lucy and Johannes shortly after descending from the summit.

For a short while, we had taken the wrong direction. It was not a total loss, however, since we came across this odd looking tree.

Part of the trail on the way back went along some power lines. Here's the view from underneath one of the towers.

Once the snow falls in Ithaca, it's there to stay until about April. Fortunately, the sky has not yet attained the uniform white/grey color that is typical of the winter season in Central New York.

Thanksgiving, 2005

2005-11-24T12:45:00.000-05:00

Ever since I was born, I've spent Thanksgiving at my grandmother's house and this year was no exception. Some pictures are below.

My grandmom and my Uncle John apparently feel differently when it comes to carving the turkey.

My family from left to right: John, Jack, Mom, Michele and me.

Aunt Pattie, Michele and I started dipping into the wine immediately.

Grandmom and Michele after dinner.

Me playing poker with some of my cousins after dinner.

Rocky Mountain National Park

2005-11-18T12:37:00.000-05:00

The wind in Rocky Mountain National Park was quite formidable. A few times, I had to brace myself to regain my footing.

As a result, the highest part of the park, Trail Ridge Road, was closed. But we were able to see quite a lot from the open sections.

Here the wind blows around the powder on top of one of Colorado's many fourteeners, far above the treeline. Soon after taking this shot, Pat and I went snowshoeing for a few miles near Bear Lake.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Day 3

2005-11-17T12:28:00.000-05:00

When the sun rose on the third day, I was better prepared. With camera properly in hand, I snapped this shot with the sun to my back as it started to illuminate the sky behind the dunes.

The moon was full and bright just before the sun popped up from behind the mountain range behind me.

Trees are plentiful near the mountains, but become much more scarce the closer you get to the dunes. Still, some large ones have managed to survive the sandy terrain.

The sky was mostly clear this morning, but here you can see the start of some clouds heading over the park. By sunset, a snowstorm would engulf the area.

After another day hike, we packed up our tent and packs and headed out. This picture was taken as we passed by the dunes we climbed the day before. The wind had not yet swept away our footprints.

Another shot of the dunes as we made our way back to the car.

We actually saw many deer during our hikes. This family stared at us for a little while before slowly making its way behind some trees.

After we made it back to the car, we parked at a popular visitor location. The scenery was spectacular.

The lighting created by clouds of the incoming snowstorm was incredible.

This beautiful bird is a Magpie. It's relatively large and seems to be quite common in Colorado. I had seen it many times during my stay.

The wind blown sand surface.

Another picture of the spectacular landscape.

Closeup of the dunes.

Pat explores the area as the snowstorm moves in.

The Rockies provide a nice backdrop for the dunes.

More dunes!

Here's a snapshot I took as we were driving out of the park.

Another shot taken while driving.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Day 2

2005-11-16T12:03:00.000-05:00

Pat and I arrived at the park the previous afternoon with just enough time to strap on our packs, hike out to the Indian Cove campsite and set up the tent before sunset, so I didn't have time to take any pictures until the next morning. Pictures from that day are below.

The first picture was taken as soon as I could dig my camera out of my tent after I watched the sun rise.

To the east of the dunes stand part of the Rockies. The largest peak in this photo, one of Colorado's fourteeners, is the fourth largest peak in the state.

I haven't yet been able to identify this bird, but they were extremely active during the morning.

Here's a look at the dune field at midday from the canyon we hiked up.

Here's a picture of some of the smaller "Escape Dunes", a patch of dunes closer to the mountains than the rest of the field.

I took this picture as we approached the dune field from the mountains, planning our route through the field back to the campsite.

Even when there were no dunes, the ground was covered in sand.

Here we are about one third of the way up our first large dune. The canyon we hiked into earlier in the day is in the background.

Pat takes a very short rest. We have already climbed a large dune here and you can see that on top are several small dunes like the one in the background.

Me on top of the dune field, heading toward the campsite.

Let the GPS lead the way!

There's a good reason that the grass on top of the dunes looks wind blown.

Walk Around Beebe Lake, Cornell's Campus

2005-11-06T13:15:00.000-05:00

Hemlock Gorge.

Hemlock Gorge from another angle.

Part of the waterfall at Hemlock Gorge.

Off the beaten path around Beebe Lake.

Sackett Bridge at Beebe Lake.

Differently colored maple leaves by the Toboggan Lodge.

A bridge along the '59 Jogging Trail on the north side of the lake.

These boats are piled up for use by the Cornell Recreation Club on the north side of the lake.

Fall Creek from Park Park

2005-11-05T19:06:00.000-05:00

Today was uncharacteristically warm for mid-November. I took advantage of the 72F high to read at this location in Park Park.

An Autumn Bike Ride

2005-10-30T21:29:00.000-05:00

There's no stopping Autumn's inevitable transformation.

Autumn Approaches

2005-10-05T18:42:00.000-05:00

Autumn has begun her transformation of the landscape on the shores of Fall Creek.

For now, most of the colored trees are Sugar Maples.

With the recent rain, the water level of Fall Creek has been rising, dancing strange designs as it flows past the beautiful rock formations.

Fall Creek & Park Park Before Sunset

2005-08-28T19:49:00.000-05:00

Just before sunset looking west along Fall Creek from Park Park, Cornell Plantations.

Looking east along Fall Creek. The lack of rain explains the low water level, exposing most of the rocks.

A bee inspects what appears to be either a Prairie Coneflower or some type of Woodland Sunflower.

A butterfly jumps from one flower to another.

The reduction of the water level has allowed new plants to sprout amongst the rocks.

A butterfly perched on a rock on the north side of Fall Creek.

The same butterfly from a different angle.

Bees were plentiful in this area.

Reflections.

A lonely red leaf resting below the waves of the creek.

I liked the ripples in the water in this picture.

More leaves below the water's surface.

Similar shot in black and white.

A shot of the sky from the south side of the creek.

Shipwreck Mini-Golf

2005-08-21T17:37:00.000-05:00

Lucy looks on as Jing takes a shot toward the end of the course at Shipwreck Golf in South Cortland, NY.

Jing at Shipwreck Golf course.

More of Jing...

Michael and Lucy at Hole 1, before teeing off for our second game.

Judson & Megan @ the Farmer's Market, Minns Garden and the Cornell Law School

2005-08-20T15:47:00.000-05:00

Johnny Russo, local musician and potential performer at Judson and Megan's wedding next August, playing at the Ithaca Farmer's Market.

Megan and Judson introduce themselves to Doug Robinson, another potential performer at their wedding.

Doug shows off his jazz guitar abilities.

Judson and Megan at the Minns Garden off Tower Rd., Cornell University.

Another at the Minns Garden.

And another...

The wedding will be performed at the chapel in Anabel Taylor, Cornell University.

Anabel Taylor Hall.

The Cornell law school.

Judson and Megan on the balcony of the Cornell law school.

And now only Megan!

Under the law school arch.

Isabelle, Ithaca Farmer's Market and Mini-Golf

2005-08-14T21:55:00.000-05:00

Isabelle and Ryan browse the bread selection at the Ithaca Farmer's Market.

Isabelle finally finds some leeks that surpass the quality at Ludgate Farms.

Isabelle, Sharon, their new belts, and the man who made it possible.

Sharing a laugh with the maker of Isabelle's first-ever belt!

Ryan and Duane on the pier behind the Farmer's Market.

Isabelle and John (and a Cuban sandwhich).

Qu'est ce que c'est?

A duck dips its head into the water by the pier.

Isabelle had enough time to show off her miniature golfing abilities.

Matt struggles through hole 17.

Isabelle finishes hole 18 with style.

The A. D. White House in Summer

2005-08-03T17:46:00.000-05:00

A hose with a leak splashes water high into the air on a nearly unbearable summer day in front of the shrouded A. D. White House.

A view from the porch of the A. D. White House.

The entrance to the basement looked rather inviting.

Mom and Grandmom Visit the Cornell Plantations

2005-07-30T17:43:00.000-05:00

Mom takes a photo of grandmom and I as we enter the Vegetable Garden, a part of the Cornell Plantations.

The herb garden in the Plantations is considerably greener now that it's summer.

Mom, grandmom and I enjoy some rest in the shade at the herb garden.

By the Docks at the Ithaca Farmers Market

2005-07-30T17:42:00.000-05:00

Some ducks gather by the pier at the Ithaca Farmers Market.

Several sailboats are docked at the base of Cayuga Lake by the Farmers Market.

Scranton vs. Rochester AAA Baseball

2005-07-02T18:49:00.000-05:00

Tyner, at the plate for the Rochester Red Wings fouls a pitch down the third base line.

Reggy, the mascot for Rochester, looks on as his team steps up to the plate.

Reggy interacts with a bald fan.

A
Scranton Red Barons player takes a big lead off first base. Two pitches later he was thrown out while trying to steal second.

A Scranton reliever about to release a pitch.

Here you can see a pitch come in below the knees of Bartlett for a ball.

Toads and Dragonflies on Van Lone Trail

2005-06-25T17:21:00.000-05:00

A bright blue dragonfly with black wings perched on a branch which hangs over the stream along the Van Lone Loop Trail near Cayuta Lake.

This area was covered with dragonflies!

This, probably an American Toad, was very difficult to see amongst the leaves.

This closeup shows the structure of the skin on its back.

A Shady Place Near Sage Hall

2005-06-24T17:49:00.000-05:00

A moth rests on a leaf near Sage Hall, Cornell University.

A squirrel checks to see what I'm up to.

Some Mammals Next to Sage Hall

2005-06-23T22:03:00.000-05:00

This squirrel was digging around the base of this bush. Apparently he found something he liked, because he started eating it after he pulled it up.

A chipmunk surveys the area for food.

He seems to have found a berry he likes.

And he begins eating it.

A Sparrow at the Big Red Barn

2005-06-21T22:53:00.000-05:00

This bird, possibly a Field Sparrow, twists his head around to get a better view of something at the entrance of the Big Red Barn, Cornell University.

Morgan-Smith Trail in Park Park, Cornell Plantations

2005-06-19T21:50:00.000-05:00

A Warbling Vireo perched on a branch of Eastern Hemlock on the Morgan-Smith Trail in Park Park, Cornell Plantations.

A chipmunk in a tree by Houston Pond in the Cornell Arboretum.

The same chimunk chews a nut at the base of the tree.

Sneaking around in the grass.

A male malard by Houston pond.

The lillies in the Arboretum have just started to bloom! This is the only flower which has fully bloomed thus far.

Return to Minns Garden, Cornell University

2005-06-15T20:17:00.000-05:00

I don't know what these plants are, but I like them!

Hosta (left) next to some Coleus (right).

A closeup of some very brightly colored leaves.

I really like the way these leaves are folded. Unfortunately, Cornell did not identify them with a tag, as is normally their policy.

The popular TCAT Route 81 stops across from Kennedy Hall down the street.

Minns Garden, Cornell University

2005-06-14T20:06:00.000-05:00

An Iris in the Minns Garden in front of the Plant Sciences building on Tower Rd.

A honey bee perched on a leaf in Minns Garden.

Several species have recently been planted here.

I think this might be Purple Coneflower. Notice the three stages of flower development.

Another shot of the Purple Coneflower.

Jerry's Going Away Party at Stewart Park

2005-06-06T22:14:00.000-05:00

On Monday, our lab organized a BBQ at Stewart Park, a city-owned park which borders the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, to say goodbye to a fellow lab member who will be moving on at the end of the week.

Chris attends to the grill at Stewart Park in Ithaca, NY for Jerry's going away party.

The sunset over Cayuga Lake at Stewart Park was fantastic.

Some birds sit on a branch in the lake.

Another view of the sunset.

A lighthouse in the background is shrouded in mist.

This lighthouse, also shrouded in midst, is located where Fall Creek empties into Cayuga Lake.

Someone constructed an odd wooden structure on the shore.

Here are eleven separate pictures stitched together for a beautiful panoramic view of Cayuga Lake from Stewart Park.

A Walk Around the Arboretum

2005-05-28T13:08:00.000-05:00

Wild flax is now common along the trails through the Cornell Plantations.

This group is located at the trailhead near my apartment, at the intersection of Dryden Rd. and Forest Home Dr.

The tree coverage has grown dramatically over the past several weeks, making this trail incredibly enjoyable.

A moss-covered log lies among some flowers along the trail.

Part of an old stump among the same patch of flowers.

These views are representative of most of the trail.

A fly rests on a wet leaf along the trail.

Several new pine cones are generated on this evergreen near McConville Barn.

Cassie, a resident of McConville Barn, enjoys some hay.

Browny also enjoys some hay.

After eating some hay, Browny washes it down with a drink of water.

Exploring Ithaca With Mom

2005-05-21T17:45:00.000-05:00

My mom came to visit from Philadelphia for the weekend. The following pictures partially document it.

The sign on this tree, in the Cornell Arboretum, says to treat this tree with great respect because of its age and its character.

This thick stem of this species resembled a weed, but the hairy leaves on top were very interesting.

My mother snuck a photograph of me while I was examining some "Lady's Mantle" up close.

Here is a copy of the photograph I was taking at the time. Later in the day, I learned that the leaves of this plant have been used to ease the symptoms of menopause and menstruation.

Some variegated leaves found around the same area at the Arboretum.

My mom peeks through a crab apple tree at the Arboretum.

My mother rests on a rock underneath a crab apple tree.

A honey bee enjoys some Golden Ragwort in the Mundy Wildflower Garden, Cornell Plantations.

The same honey bee inspects a similar flower.

The same honey bee raises his wings just before taking flight.

I'm not certain, but this appears to be Wild Flax.

(Potentially) more Wild Flax.

Variegated grasses are not uncommon along the creeks which meander through Mundy Wildflower Garden.

The name of this species, on display in the Herb Garden at Cornell, likely appears on the blurred sign in the background.

Mom catches me coming down some stairs which cross over one of the stone walls in the Herb Garden, Cornell Plantations.

A white tulip opens in the Flower Garden, next to the Herb Garden, Cornell Plantations.

The rhododendrons have started blooming in the botanical gardens, Cornell Plantations.

Mom snaps a picture of me outside Rockefeller Hall, Cornell University.

I'm partial to this tree, which grows on the lawn to the west of Rockefeller Hall.

A bumblebee inspects some flowers on the path between the Big Red Barn and Tower Rd.

I found this flower next to where the previous picture was taken. I don't know what it is, but it resembles a poppy.

This panoramic image was constructed by stitching four pictures together. This is the view from the top of the Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University.

A conversation outside Juna's Cafe on the Ithaca Commons.

New Flowers Bloom Along Tower Rd.

2005-05-16T23:48:00.000-05:00

New flowers have bloomed in a Cornell garden along Tower Rd.

Most of the flowers I have not yet identified.

An American Tree Sparrow collects a twig, likely to add to his nest.

The name of this was written on a metal tag near its base, but I have already forgotten the name!

Looking east on Tower Rd. from the bus stop across from Bradfield Hall.

Flowers West of East Ave.

2005-05-13T19:09:00.000-05:00

A honey bee inspects a tree of what appears to be an apple variety.

This picture, of the same tree, shows that it is covered with flowers.

The beautiful pattern of seeds produced by a dandelion.

The underside of a leaf along East Ave.

This leaf resembles that of a Dogwood, but without any flowers, I couldn't tell for sure.

An apple tree, on the south side of Goldwin Smith Hall.

Two students take a study break outside Olin Library during finals week.

A squirrel keeps his eye on me outside of Sage Chapel.

A couple walks from McGraw Tower in the direction of Collegetown.

The same couple embraces near the Cornell Store.

West Ithaca from McGraw Tower. A North Campus building is in the foreground.

Panoramic view of West Ithaca from McGraw Tower.

Flowers Around the Big Red Barn, Cornell

2005-05-11T21:51:00.000-05:00

The flower coverage on Cornell's campus appears to be near its peak.

These pansies have bloomed in a garden between the Big Red Barn and the Andrew Dickson White House.

This large bush, near the Big Red Barn, is now completely covered with white flowers.

A single dandelion emerges from a bed of commonly observed purple wildflowers.

Here is my first observation of lilac this spring.

A ball of dandelion seeds -- a single seed is produced by each individual blade-like flower formed in the bloom.

More Forget-Me-Nots have bloomed along the walkway connecting the Big Red Barn to Tower Rd.

I have not yet been able to identify this interesting flower, found near the Andrew Dickson White House.

These flowers, known as the "Star of Bethlehem", are some of my favorite so far!

These are located along Tower Rd., by the Andrew Dickson White House.

More Star of Bethlehem.

And even more.

An interestingly colored tulip near the Big Red Barn.

Several tulips in a garden just east of the Andrew Dickson White House (pictured).

Here is a nearly perfect pink tulip.

The same pink tulip from above.

Several variegated tulips near the Big Red Barn.

A squirrel eats a nut under some evergreens in front of the Big Red Barn.

Some beautiful flowers in the foreground, with the same squirrel eating in the background.

Unfortunately, I have not yet been able to identify these flowers.

Watkins Glen State Park

2005-05-08T21:18:00.000-05:00

Watkins Glen State Park's gorge was incredible! Unfortunately, the depth prevented a lot of light from reaching the bottom, making photography difficult.

This
farm is on the opposite side of Watkins Glen, as seen through the 12x
zoom lens from atop a bridge crossing the gorge.

This sculpture was found in a graveyard on the north rim of the gorge.

Patches of Phlox were present amongst the graves.

As on parts of Cornell's campus, Periwinkle was common in the graveyard north of the gorge.

More Flowers in Bloom at Cornell

2005-05-06T21:48:00.000-05:00

As the remaining daffodil petals begin to fall, several new flowers are making an appearance on Cornell's campus.

This Periwinkle has bloomed outside of Stimson Hall on East Ave.

More Periwinkle outside Stimson Hall.

These red tulips have bloomed outside Day Hall, the site of the recent Red Bud Woods protests.

Among the red tulips was a single variegated tulip.

Meanwhile, the dandelions are beginning to change into another familiar form.

I
have still not been able to identify these flowers, but they now exist in large patches on campus and the Cornell Plantations.

One beautiful patch is across from the bus stop at Statler Hall on East Ave.

Various colored tulips have been planted on the south side of Sage Hall.

Here is another view of the Sage Hall tulips.

Lucy took my picture while we were enjoying the view of the tulips at Sage Hall.

The massive outdoor drinking and partying event known as "Slope Day", although nearby, hadn't defiled this area.

These trees, possibly Hawthornes, line the walkway from Gannett to McGraw Tower.

These flowers were found along the ledge which borders the walkway to McGraw Tower.

The inner structure was very interesting. A tiny green bug can be seen crawling on this one.

The
Red Bud trees on campus are now covered with buds. They are quite remarkable. This one is next to the Chemical Engineering building.

This tree, possibly an oak variety, stands in front of Willard Straight Hall.

These interesting flowers are blooming on a large bush at the top of the Slope.

Political statements are common both on and off campus. This was found on a bench next to the suspension bridge near the Johnson Art Museum. It says: "I get 3 Iraqi kids per gallon. How bout U!"

The view from the suspension bridge, looking west.

Some pink magnolias, north of the suspension bridge.

Here is the suspension bridge, as seen from the north end.

This house, which borders the north side of the gorge, made me imagine that I was in Europe somewhere!

These small wildflowers, possibly Smooth Aster, are just starting to bloom outside of Risley Hall.

More Flowers at the Mundy Wildflower Garden

2005-05-04T23:53:00.000-05:00

Several new flower types have bloomed at the Mundy Wildflower Garden on the Cornell Plantations.

This large white flower had very little leaf coverage.

Three deer observe me from afar, waiting to make their move.

These, apparently, are Yellow Wakerobin Triullium.

Does this flower explain why "yellow" is in their name?

The Wakerobin Triullium have camouflage patterns on their large leaves.

This small pond (or large puddle) had formed when the level of Fall Creek receded.

Here is a panorama constructed from four individual photos of a tiny waterfall in Fall Creek. On the left bank is the village of Forest Home. On the right bank is the Mundy Wildflower Garden, part of the Cornell Plantations.

I don't know what this is, but it sure is fuzzy!

These, part of a much larger tree, look like some sort of weeping palm tree leaves.

One of four Cornell reservoirs in the area has (purposely?) dried up and the ground has cracked as a result.

Thankfully, the Red Bud Woods (now on death row) is not the only place where Red Bud trees exist on campus.

Hopefully I will find out what these buds turn into this coming weekend.

Flowers and Donkeys of the Cornell Arboretum

2005-05-01T19:52:00.001-05:00

Daisies have bloomed in clusters all over the Cornell Arboretum.

These flowers are springing up all over the Arboretum, but I have not identified them yet.

In certain areas, patches of daisies mingled with these purple flowers.

This flower appears to be Bloodroot.

This Japanese Skunk Cabbage is flowering along the Cayuga Trail.

Unfortunately, these flowers tend to droop, so they are difficult to observe straight-on.

This plant seems ideally suited for collecting raindrops.

Does the storage of these droplets serve any purpose?

Several of these flowers were growing along the creek near Forest Home Drive.

These flowers, in mid-bloom, appear to be some different, although related, variety.

Blackjack was immediately interested in my presence at the McConville Barn.

Once we got to know each other, I obliged in offering him some fresh grass.

After feeding Blackjack, I returned to my Jeep, which was parked on the other side of Dryden Rd.

Red Bud Woods

2005-05-01T19:29:00.000-05:00

During my search for Red Bud Woods, I wandered into a graveyard on the old Treman Estate.

Upon locating the woods, it was clear where the area got its name. I'll have to return in several days when the buds have flowered.

Here is a typical view of the woods, which consists mostly of what appears to be younger trees and large shrubery.

Some long grasses have taken residence around a manmade pond.

This plant, garlic mustard, is a species native to Europe. It's leaves are edible and are allegedly garlic-flavored.

This tree may be an American Elder, which would make these elderberries.

Commonly considered a pest, I feel that the Dandelion is underappreciated.

This garlic mustard has already flowered.

Many
students, faculty, and local residents have called for a reversal of Cornell's plan to pave over Red Bud Woods to create student parking spaces. However, all signs indicate that time is running out for Red Bud.

Six Mile Creek & Mulholland Wildflower Preserve

2005-04-30T21:36:00.000-05:00

I'm laughing here because my camera lens looks gigantic compared to Jing!

Beads of rain rest gently on newly formed leaves.

The Large-flowered Trillium is frequently cultivated in wildflower gardens.

More wildflowers along the trail.

Most of the wildflowers in the preserve have not yet bloomed. These were only just beginning.

The trail required the crossing of several waterfalls of this type.

Waterfalls were plentiful, each emptying into Six Mile Creek.

Approaching the lake, which is just beyond the dam in the background.

This, the second largest waterfall along the creek, guards the entrance to a large lake.

This plant, which appears to be a fern of some kind, was growing out of a crack in the gorge.

Ithaca's Vibrant Sunsets & Sage Chapel at Night

2005-04-28T23:20:00.000-05:00

Sunset as viewed from Andrew Dickson White House.

Vibrant sunsets like this are typical during the warmer months in Ithaca.

It seems safe to say that the winter months are safely behind us.

The sunset as viewed from Uris Hall.

A stained glass window on the east face of Sage Chapel.

Stewart Park & Ithaca Commons at Night

2005-04-27T22:01:00.000-05:00

Stewart Park typically provides a spectacular view of sunsets, but today it was much milder.

Many willow trees line the park at the base of Cayuga Lake.

I have always appreciated the the character of the clouds in the area.

The willow trees as viewed from the pier.

A few swings stand on the shore of the lake.

A single car passes by while taking a night photo of the back of this apartment complex on the Commons.

I wonder what kind of goods are for sale at the Immaculate Conception Shoppe.

Ithaca's City Hall is located on Green St. across from the public library.

East Hill Plaza and Rt. 13

2005-04-24T19:36:00.000-05:00

TCAT's 51 line exits East Hill Plaza, headed for the Commons.

This is the closest I've gotten to the new Walmart in Ithaca. Only time will tell the effects it will have on the region.

A local resident enters Wegman's grocery store.

A Cloudy Day on the Ithaca Commons

2005-04-23T16:40:00.000-05:00

Ithaca Commons

Unloading plenty of onions for the Moosewood Restaurant on Seneca St.

A news stand on the Commons.

Waiting to cross Seneca St.

Rolling across South Aurora, fully prepared for rain.

This sushi place opened on the Commons in December. It very much reminded me of eating in Tokyo.

"Song of Innocence", Ithaca Commons

Water fountain on the Commons.

Droplets of water from the fountain on the Commons.

Graffiti on South Cayuga St.

A TCAT bus waits to begin its route at the Green St.-Commons station.

A mural underneath the parking garage on Green St.

The front of Ithaca's City Hall.

Ten Thousand Villages displays their merchandise on the Commons.

A TCAT bus about to turn left onto Green St.

Green St.

Friendly conversation on the Commons.

Perhaps Ithaca's only adult toy store is just west of the Commons.

Whereas most of the women passing by were interested in this cat, most of the men were interested in the women.

As
soon as the clouds cleared up, people started filling the outdoor tables at Simeon's and other restaurants on the Commons.

Enjoying some coffee on the Commons.

Playing chess outside Moonshadow Tavern.

These two informed me they had already gotten in trouble for carrying around their 40's.

Like most of the area, these flowers are in full bloom.

It's probably about time I walked into a place like this.

McConville Barn & the Arts Quad

2005-04-22T23:36:00.000-05:00

"Browny", a resident of Cornell's McConville Barn, munches on some spring grass.

A student walks along the top of the slope towards McGraw Tower.

Reflections at Sage Chapel.

Uris Hall as seen from underneath a Magnolia tree at Sage Chapel.

A view across the Arts Quad from Goldwin Smith Hall to Morrill Hall.

Engineering Quad & Surrounding Area

2005-04-21T20:10:00.000-05:00

What I believe to be Cherry Blossoms outside Lincoln Hall.

More cherry blossoms.

I was not the only one photographing cherry blossoms.

The Magnolia petals are already starting to fall.

Studying in the engineering quad.

An inviting bench at an out of the way place in the engineering quad.

Tower Road & Beyond

2005-04-19T23:08:00.000-05:00

Flowers in a garden along Tower Rd.

Flowers ready to bloom along Tower Rd.

Several insects explore a flowering branch atop the Cornell Store.

A religious statue stands near the entrance to Sage Chapel.

An adult American Robin just east of Sage Chapel.

There's nothing quite like afternoon melee atop the Cornell Store.

McGraw Tower from atop the Cornell Store.

Home of the Johnson School of Business Management, Sage Hall.

The doors of the Big Red Barn are always open (almost).

A very interesting plant near the Big Red Barn. I wonder what the flowers will look like!

Cornell's North Campus

2005-04-17T22:41:00.000-05:00

A male northern cardinal along Beebe Lake.

Balch Hall, Cornell's North Campus

A Cornell student studies amongst the daffodils along Beebe Lake.

Two Canadian Geese appear apprehensive about me being in close proximity.

Feather pattern of a Canadian Goose.

A Canadian Goose reaches for a few blades of grass.

West Seneca Wine Trail

2005-04-17T21:56:00.000-05:00

How many glasses do you see? (Glenora Winery, West Seneca Lake)

Cheng Hui (left) and Jing (right) enjoy a glass of wine at Glenora Winery, West Seneca Lake.

Sharon, Dave, Matt and Isabelle outside the Hermann J. Weimer winery.

Flowers Blooming at Eastgate

2005-04-17T10:21:00.000-05:00

A beautiful flower at the Eastgate Apartment complex.

Cornell's Campus at Sunset

2005-04-16T20:09:00.001-05:00

Cornell is finally coming alive with color.

Close up of a flower I cannot identify.

April flowers with Goldwin Smith Hall in the background.

What are you lookin' at?

Sage chapel at sunset.

A few students relax after playing Frisbee.

This path next to Goldwin Smith provides an attractive escape between classes.

McGraw Tower is connected to the Uris Library.

The sun sets over Cayuga Lake, as seen from the base of the McGraw clocktower.

A student studies on the slope, taking advantage of the beautiful evening.

The slope is a popular place to watch sunsets.

Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area

2005-04-16T16:21:00.000-05:00

Female (left) and male (right) ring-necked ducks north of Connecticut Hill Rd.

Canadian Goose along Connecticut Hill Rd.

This trail is east of Cayuta Lake west of Treman State Park.

Mundy Wildflower Garden, etc.

2005-04-15T23:18:00.000-05:00

A male mallard pads from one stream to the other along Fall Creek.

A male mallard enters Fall Creek.

Many of these purple and white flowers have popped up around Ithaca.

A small insect crawls along the underside of an illuminated sprouting leaf in the Mundy Wildflower Garden.

The backyard of a Forest Home residence.

A male Downy Woodpecker in the Cornell Plantations.

The same woodpecker hammers away at the bark.

The herb garden at the Cornell Plantations.

Close up of a pine in Cornell's herb garden.

A couple of American Sparrows perched on a wall surrounding Cornell's herb garden.

A daffodil on the lawn of a house in Forest Home.

Walking to Campus

2005-04-15T21:00:00.000-05:00

I had to drop the Jeep off at the auto shop today to get a headlight fixed. Rather than rush and take the bus in the morning, I decided to walk to campus instead, camera in hand. I didn't have too much extra time to take photos, but I did manage to snap a few birds and the following picture.

Looking down Tower Road at McGraw Tower, Cornell University.

It was enjoyable and I'd like to take morning photo-walks to campus occassionally if I can get up early enough.

The New Lumix at the Cornell Arboretum

2005-04-14T22:06:00.000-05:00

I received my new camera in the mail today -- the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ20. I couldn't wait to try it out! Here are some pictures I took before sunset at the Cornell Arboretum. I haven't figured out how to use any of its manual features yet! These are all "point and shoot" images under some automatic settings. Check out the amazing 12x optical zoom!

Grossman Pond

Pagoda on Houston Pond and the McConville Barn

The Leon Ballord Allen Memorial Trail

Two male mallards in Houston Pond.

Which way is up?

A female red-winged blackbird.

Possibly a male red-winged blackbird.

Broadleaf Cattail along Houston Pond.

Pagona on Houston Pond.

Broadleaf Cattail along Houston Pond.

The sun sets behind Cornell's McConville Barn.

Gorge Trail & the Finger Lakes National Forest

2005-04-10T22:24:00.000-05:00

I hikes with Isabelle and Lucy today through the Finger Lakes National Forest. I had wanted to hike through this area for quite awhile now, but was saving it for good weather. I almost went last weekend, but it was postponed because of rain. Based upon the US Forest Service Website, I decided to park along Mark Smith Rd. and start by hiking up Gorge Trail. This was a pleasant beginning, since most of the trail went along the creek. The name is slightly misleading. We saw no major gorges as you might find near Ithaca or Watkins Glen, but it was pleasantly covered with eastern hemlock and pines, offering shade as we passed.

One of the many small waterfalls along Gorge Trail.

Isabelle tests my nerves by crossing the stream on a log.

After one or two miles, the trail intersected the main trail in the area, the 12 mile Interloken trail. We decided to pass by this trail and continue on towards backbone trail, which runs north to south along the ridge of the hill. Just before that intersection, we came upon a large pond, where we ate lunch and found a green toad.

An orange colored "Green" toad near a pond along Gorge Trail.

Backbone trail basically consisted of a dirt road. Unfortunately, there wasn't anything of great interest along the extent that we hiked. Supposedly there are nice views of Seneca lake elsewhere on this trail. Of most interest, we found another green toad. This one was remarkably unafraid of us -- so much so that Isabelle was able to pick him up without any sign of struggling. As you can see in the photo, he sat perfectly still in her hand. Eventually, he jumped away from her as she tried to inspect his undersign by flipping him over gently.

A green toad along Backbone Trail.

From backbone trail, we entered the ravine trail. Some reports online indicate that the area is reminiscent of Japanese tea gardens. It was a nice area, but I would stop short of a tea garden description. I suspect that it looks even nicer once all of the leaves have sprouted. After a short while, the trail bordered the creek. The creek was very shallow -- easily less than an inch in depth -- and Isabelle, not surprisingly, removed her shoes and walked along the creek instead. Lucy and I continued along the trail until we reached a bridge. At this point Isabelle convinced us to join her by walking in the creek instead.

Isabelle beckons us to join her in the creek.

Lucy decides to join Isabelle in the creek.

We didn't go far before walking in the creek became too difficult. Tree branches, large shrubs and thorn bushes reach extend over the creek making continuation along it tedious, if not impossible. Here we carefully dried our feet, replaced our shoes and hiked into the brush in search of the trail. At this point, Isabelle came across the skull of an animal. It was immediately recognized to be a deer...easily identified by the two antlers above. We soon found other bones around it. First, bones belonging to the legs and then an entire rib cage and spine! Isabelle and I gathered some of these bones together, but Isabelle was the only one adventurous enough to touch the rib cage. Less than 50 yards from this site we found a second skull -- this time without antlers, indicating it was probably a female deer. It was incredible -- finding not only one, but TWO SKULLS in the same area within 50 yards of each other. We ended up taking the skulls with us, along with some of the other interesting bones.

Isabelle examines the rib cage of a deer.

Very shortly after this, we ended up on another road in the area. We took this road east several hundred yards until we reached the Interloken trail. Our idea was to take this back to Gorge Trail and return home. We soon reached a patch that was so muddy that we decided to take the Burnt Hill Trail back instead, this one being parallel to the Interloken Trail. To get there, we crossed what might have been a blueberry patch (being in the blueberry patch recreational area). From there we met two other hikers who confirmed we were now on Burnt Hill Trail. It was two or three miles to Gorge Trail. On the way, the most interesting thing was a large pasture. It is likely that cows graze her during the summer as there were gates on each side. From here it was possible to look down into Seneca valley, but the lake was not visible. Towards the end of the pasture there was a single, interesting tree as shown in the picture below.

A pasture along Interloken Trail overlooking the valley around Seneca Lake.

Enjoying the view from a cool looking tree.

After reconnecting with the Gorge Trail, we headed back towards the Jeep. Along the way, we stopped for a snack to finish up the rest of our food by the creek.

Isabelle and Lucy stop for a snack along Gorge Trail.

The rocky stream along Gorge Trail.

Overall, the trail was nice. The best parts were Gorge Trail and the pasture along Burnt Hill Trail. I have read online that parts of the Finger Lakes National Forest are home to many varieties of wildflowers, so I plan on touring more of the forest this spring. Unfortunately, I was not able to record the trail of the hike because my GPS had a lot of trouble determining our position. I later found out the reason was that I changed some of the settings previously and forgot to change them back.

Cycling in Varna

2005-04-09T19:18:00.000-05:00

After the Phillies were through with pounding the Cardinals, I had an urge to enjoy more of the pleasant weather. I decided to go biking so that I could enjoy some views of the surrounding farms. Several days ago I went biking with Dan, but struggled and failed to make it to the top of Mount Pleasant. Setting it as a future challenge to overcome, I decided to work on climbing some gentler slopes in the area. Perhaps the toughest was climbing up Sunny Slope Rd., which I succeeded in doing. A picture of the Turkey Hill Rd. climb is shown below.

Did I really just bike up Turkey Hill Road?!

I only biked for about 90 minutes. Towards the end of my ride, I decided to do a loop around the Cornell Arboretum. I snapped this shot on the way there over one of Cornell's farms along Gamefarm Rd.

Sunset overlooking a Cornell farm from Gamefarm Road.

The ride around the Arboretum was pleasant. Here's a picture of some birch trees which really stood out in the setting sun. I never really noticed them before.

A few white birches stand out during the sunset at Cornell's Arboretum.

The bike ride was so pleasant that I am thinking about adding a weekly bike ride to my weekly hike. It would allow me to explore different aspects of Central New York and it felt good to use different muscles on the bike.