Collums N Flowers

Two for One

For this weeks Weekend Reflection and Friday Skywatch photo I have decided to share this photo of the sun and late afternoon sky reflecting in the windows of this great old building. The photo was taken at the beginning of the summer, while we were doing this.

Sharing with:

Jame's Weekend Reflection

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Friday Skywatch

 

Afternoon in Rapid City

A bit of Reflections

The Pennington County Courthouse is a gorgeous bit of architecture and those arched windows do such a lovely job reflecting the afternoon sky.

One thing that still amazes me even after so many years living in South Dakota is the appearance of the moon in the mid afternoon sky.

Have I lost it?

What woman goes to a unique shopping center and doesn't look at a single item that is for sale? Yep, that would be me. I know I should have my right to call myself a woman revoked or at minimum suspended. 

However, in my defense the architecture and landscaping at Tlaquepaque Arts and Craft Village in Sadona Arizona is so mesmerizing I was too busy oohing and awing to notice the many unique crafts items for sale. An absolutely amazing experience. Here let me show you.

The entire village looks like an old Mexican village possibly built as long ago as when Arizona belonged to Mexico.

Just look how the tree limb has grown into the outer wall as if the wall was there when the tree was just a sapling.

Wide staircases with beautiful elaborate tile work approached by worn cobblestone paths, led to shops unexplored. Enormous Intricately carved doors thrown wide in welcome . All set in stucco buildings that captured Mexican Colonial Architecture down to the very smallest detail.

Everywhere I turned my eyes were met with beauty and grace. I was led down winding cobblestone paths that opened into breathtaking courtyards.

Black & White Wednesday Submission

To find myself branching off onto paths through narrow shaded alleys with small hidden courtyards, fountains and intricately carved benches.

No area had been overlooked, it was all terrific, Right down to small delicate fountains heavily covered with moss like this religious shrine nestled against the stucco protected by lush vegetation and ornate ironwork.

If I wasn't entranced by the architecture I was captivated by the sculptures. Every courtyard, walkway and nook held some fantastic carving from delicate pots to elaborate sculptures.

The only thing that felt a bit out of place to me was the Zen Garden in one of the larger courtyards. Although, even that held my interest. 

I was not the only one that had eyes only for the beauty of the scene around me, this artist was creating a wonderful painting featuring the villages bell tower.

So what do you think, does my defense hold up or do I need to sign up for classes on how to be a woman?

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Withering Beauty

During a photo walk Sunday evening with a few photographers from Clickin Moms I was drawn to the beauty of some of the doorways on a few homes that seemed to be in need of some TLC. It dawned on me that name of gallery 23 of 52 Photos Project was perfect to describe these beautiful doorways.

This majestic old home is in the process of receiving some much needed tender loving care. The stripped columns almost look like heavily rusted metal instead of wood.

I really loved the steps up to this door but what really caught my eye was the contrast of the shiny new kick plates on the weathered door.

If you enjoyed these you may want to head over to the project and check out the other withering beauties:

Weekend Reflection

One of my favorite aspects of newer architecture is the uninterrupted use of large panels of reflective or tinted glass that allows for fabulous reflections like this one.

Linking up with:

 Jame's Weekend Reflection.

Weekend Reflection:

Today's weekend reflection comes from my walk through the Freemason Street Historic District. Among the many beautiful homes sat Norfolk's first permanent library.

I was very tempted to call the number on the reality sign on the building to see if they would let me go inside and take pictures. I am rather saddened that this is on the market and not being used by the city for the purpose it was intended. 

Be sure to hop over to Jame's Weekend Reflection for more awesome reflections.

Exploring Norfolk, VA : Beautiful Homes 1

Driving down Hampton Blvd. the other day I decided to pull off onto a side street for a quick look at the old homes. I am very glad I did for I was able to take a short stroll down this lovely street. The first three shots are of the home that caught my eye, inspiring me to stop and look further.

So many beautiful homes. I am looking forward to exploring this area more.