Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Dreaming of summer, Mute swan on a pond

Just a week ago we had some perfect summer-like days here in the Bay Area, and they got me so ready for summer to start. I found myself full of energy in the morning -- excited to get out of bed and watch the pastel colors of sunrise fill the neighborhood out of our window as I cut up fresh strawberries to have on my cereal. But alas, it's only April and spring is still in the air. And while there are plenty of wildflowers around, I'm more referring to the drizzle and mist we've been having over the last few days. So while I (im)patiently wait for those quiet mornings followed by warm sunny days to return, here are two shots that I took late last May that remind me of summer.

Mute swan at Ellis Creek - Pat Ulrich Wildlife Photography

There was something so carefree about the way this swan paddled back and forth across the pond, moving at a slow pace. It's the epitome of that summer feeling -- no reason to rush, just enjoying life as it passes you by! (These shots are from the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility in Petaluma, CA.)

Impressionistic swan - Pat Ulrich Wildlife Photography

Submitted to World Bird Wednesday -- follow the link to see this week's posts!

20 comments:

  1. Hiya Pat,

    and lovely they are too.
    You are lucky, you still have it all to come.
    Our Spring/Summer is going by so fast that it will all be over soon.
    2jo.co

    ReplyDelete
  2. those are beautiful and serene shots.

    ReplyDelete
  3. what perfect shots, crisp and clear. LOVE the reflections!!! xo

    ReplyDelete
  4. I like how you caught him (or her) stretching their legs.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Lovely Swan, Pat. It must look like a water ballet when seen in person.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Lovely, peaceful images. Always a joy to visit your wonderful blog!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Wonderful shots Pat. We're getting snow this week in Michigan so your lazy summer vibe is particularly appreciated! I do hope your visitors will look at your previous post,"Never turn your back on the Ocean." Incredible!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Great close ups Pat. Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Very graceful. We have temperatures that are more akin to the summer months at the moment but I have that feeling that it will all do an about turn before long.

    ReplyDelete
  10. What a beauty. Excellent captures!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Lovely images of a beautiful bird Pat.

    ReplyDelete
  12. They are lovely birds and your photos are beautiful!

    ReplyDelete
  13. They are such royalty. Great photos.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Beautifully elegant bird, well photographed.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Absolutely fantastic pictures Pat. Swans are so regal. You have captured it perfectly.
    B.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Simply wonderful captures with the outstretched paddle in both directions, perfect reflections and the super whiteness of the contented summer bird. It reminds me of punting on the river Cam in Cambridge with recumbent young ladies in white dresses and parasols being gently punted on the quiet stream by young gentlemen in white trousers and boater hats.

    ReplyDelete
  17. We can def learn from this swan....he is a handsome devil!! Great photos.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Your mute swan in the pond is beautiful. Great images.
    Have a nice easter.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Great shots. We have rain forecasted for the next week, so I'll have to rely on last year's photos to get me through it!

    ReplyDelete