NLand Surf Park

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Just when you thought Austin couldn’t get any cooler, along comes NLand Surf Park.  The technology involved is amazing to watch.  A company called Wavegarden has developed an underwater “snow shovel” that is pulled along the length of a 14-acre lagoon.  Near perfect waves pop up on either side of the pier allowing up to 120 surfers to enjoy the surf at their particular skill level.  The surf park has a sandy beach, a gift shop, a juice bar, a restaurant, and a nice deck to view the action.  It is located about 10 minutes from the airport and collects rainwater to fill the lagoon.  Now I just need to learn how to surf.

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Moonlight Adventure

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You know the kind.  Those nights when you think you are cool and can search around the local church building for some eerie photo opportunities.  The moon is shining brightly at first and then it seeks cover behind a blanket of clouds.  You walk out to the cemetery behind the church, and then your nerves kick in, even though you are still on the paved road, but very alone.  Every nighttime sound is a horror waiting to happen.  Your pace quickens as you return to the parking lot for one more photo and then a quick escape to the familiarity and comfort of your vehicle.  Whew!  That was exciting!

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Butterfly Swarm

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There was a small swarm of Monarch butterflies in the community garden this afternoon.  They are migrating south to escape the cold weather.  There were so many that they often had to share the purple blossoms that they enjoy so much.  Photography is challenging, as they move so fast and the blossoms sway in the wind.  The reward is to capture just the right image to share with everyone.  Enjoy!

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First Presbyterian Church of Bartlett

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I found this old gem of a structure in Bartlett Texas today.  It is the First Presbyterian Church of Bartlett, and is obviously in need of repairs.  According to the church records, construction of the church began on March 7, 1899.  I was able to walk around and take photos of the exterior, but there was no way to get inside.  The moon obliged and posed for a photo behind the bell tower.

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Grace Heritage Center

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This evening’s fun was found in the parking lot of the Grace Heritage Center.  Chet Garner, or better known as the Daytripper from the PBS show, set up a viewing party for his Big Bend National Park episode.  It was fun, and for photo opportunities there was the former Grace Episcopal Church along with the sky and clouds at sunset.  A pretty nice Thursday evening!

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