Sequoias Tower Above the Clouds

The giant sequoias are nature's examples of real productivity and efficiency. They can be viewed as solar powered hydraulic fire resistant pumps that transmit about 500 gallons of water each day up their ~ 300+ feet trunks and efficiently reuse during warmer temperatures. Some of the oldest sequoias have done this for over 3,000 years - Sequoias were already 800 years alive when Christ was born. Humans are expendable for plant species. Hubris would lead us to believe vice versa.

Climate imbalances could result in insufficient groundwater to help these trees endure longer and warmer summers in the future.
“The system of nature, of which man is a part, tends to be self-balancing, self-adjusting, self-cleansing. Not so with technology."
 - Economist E. F. Schumacher

Lion's Share

A 2012 Duke University study funded by National Geographic found that only 32,000 lions remain in Africa, down from an estimated 100,000 in 1960. Lion population declines are an efficient indicator of deforestation which accounts for nearly one-fifth of global greenhouse gas emissions.

A sunrise view of Saint Peter's Square and Rome from atop Basilica di San Pietro

Rome is in the news this month with the election of Pope Francis, and the Rome Marathon a few days later. Rome and the Vatican are a delight to walk through with a plethora of ancient attractions; and intriguing juxtaposition of travelers and peddlers, magnitude and solitude, faith and despair.

Fireworks at Darling Harbour, Sydney

Harbour Down Under

Took close to 1/2 a day - some long walking, and patient waiting to get a few with the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge together from this point. There was less than 1/2 hr of twilight left from the time the lights on the Bridge and Opera House were lit.

Natural Expressions

Roller coasters are good at bringing out expressions of anxiety, anticipation, fear or happiness. For a few moments, strangers unknowingly reveal themselves in unison.

Benediction at the Holy See

Off The Beaten Track

Friends Forever

Living Planet

Green Roof

Walking Out of the Shadows

Sunlit Crosslights

Torrey Pines State Reserve, San Diego

Bird of Paradise

Happy Holidays & Best Wishes for 2013

Monkey Business

Sistine Chapel - 500 Years

Ecological Staircase Trail

Scary Picture