Poverty Point State Park

On Mother's Day, we don't fight the crowds trying to get into a restaurant. Instead, we have a tradition of packing a picnic lunch and heading off to explore. In the early years, we usually found one of the rare picnic tables available at the Vicksburg National Military Park. This year, however, my wife, Karen, wanted to go to Poverty Point State Park in Delhi, Louisiana. Above are some of the birds — and turtles — we spotted around the vast man-made lake. It's a gorgeous place over there. Black Bear Golf Course is located right next to the lake. I have played golf there many times, but this was the first time I had explored the road around the lake. It was quite impressive with many pretty homes located along its shore. I'll be going back because it is a great place to watch the sun set and rise!

Pilgrim's Rest M.B. Church

One of my favorite churches in the whole world is Pilgrim's Rest M.B. Church, located alongside the Louisiana levee between Delta and Mound. It's not used very much anymore, but I did stop and worship at the church one time last year. I entered the church when Sunday school was being conducted by a man for his two children and four other people. A special memory, for sure. That's the only time I have ever seen anybody else at the church, for it is in some serious need of some maintenance. I don't think the building can last much longer. It has some beautiful handmade pews in the little church and the choir loft is pictured at the top. The old piano has seen better days, but is still graceful in its own way. I have photographed the interior and exterior of the church for several years now and am honored to have done so.

Alligators at Lake St. Joseph

One of my favorite lakes to photograph is Lake St. Joseph in Newellton, La. I meandered there in the last few days and found some old friends waiting for me. These alligators were spotted in front of Winter Quarters, a historic home located on the bank of the picturesque lake. I've spotted alligators there each time I have ever visited. Alligators are usually shy creatures, not wanting to appear in many of my photos. But the fella at top had not a care in the world and let me shoot photos of him to my heart was content. Now that is the way to relax!