There’s a tree a little north of Thrall I’ve had my eye on for several years, but last evening that tree had residents, two Crested Caracaras perched on its decrepit-looking branches.   The warm late-afternoon light was also a plus.   Until a few months ago, when a friend mentioned one nesting in a tree near house, I’d never heard of a Crested Caracara.  Now I’m always on the lookout for them.    The birds, members of the falcon family, have a long history in Central and South America, and Mexico, often referred to as Mexican Eagles.    In recent years, they’ve migrated north.   They’re relaxed creatures.  I watched them for several minutes, never seeing them move more than their heads.   This was a good opportunity to document not just a tree, but also some mighty interesting birds.  For closeups, I’d suggest doing a Google search.   This photo was taken with about 500mm of lens power.   I couldn’t get closer, but again, I like the tree’s nomenclature, too! 

The last time I stopped to photograph Locklin Cemetery in Milam County was August 2021.   If possible, I try not to repeat myself too often.    The site dates to 1844, but as with most old sites, finding the first burials there proved difficult.    As they age, inscriptions on gravestones become virtually unreadable.    It’s still a peaceful place to take a few photos near the end of a day.   When visiting 19th Century burial sites, I’m always moved by the number of children interred.  It was a different time,  when medical breakthroughs were less common.   The cemetery is surrounded by many acres of farmland, far enough away from development (hopefully) to remain pristine for a while.  

Something from Taylor’s Murphy Park tonight.  A Waxing Crescent moon, 5.3% visibility, made its presence known.  The last photo includes no hint of moon, but it suits my mood.

At certain times of day prairie grass becomes a tapestry of gold.   Combined with grazing cows near Coupland, it merited a photo.    I often get too wordy, but will leave right here tonight.

Seen during my morning walk through Taylor’s Bull Branch Park.   The resident ducks and geese were patiently nibbling grains from the young man’s hands.    The city’s parks staff prefers that residents not feed them, but the birds were gentle and kind to their benefactor.

My daily walks don’t usually lend themselves to sweeping landscapes, but they do provide opportunities for close-in botanical photos.   Tonight, just a few of those images.   So far, the walks include my little Olympus camera.   The micro four-thirds systems are noticeably lighter than anything else on the market.    I like my Nikons, but use the best tool for the moment.     

If you look at the weather forecast this weekend here, you won’t find a mention of rain, but when I left the house late this afternoon, we got about a dozen drops.   Clouds developed over Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.   A color version was okay, but black-and-white seemed right this time.

One one of those evening wanderings this week, I saw this.   At first, I passed it by, then quickly drove around the block for a photo.   The warmth of a lamp, friends.

I’ve always admired the juxtaposition of grain elevators and sports activities at Taylor’s Fannie Robinson Park.   For a while I watched a softball game.   Then a youthful basketball player happened along.  In the past few years night photography has become a passion.

From last evening, about 30 minutes before sunset, the sun intense.   Autumn began a little over an hour later.    Today’s high in Taylor is 100 degrees.   For now, Autumn is a suggestion.