Now that we are settled in the new house, it was time to get out an explore the neighborhood. It was the monsoon (rainy) season here in Arizona (mid-July thru August). It is when the state gets most of the rainfall for the entire year, which isn't a lot. But this particular morning, it thunder-stormed and rained really hard in the wee early morning hours between 4 - 7 am., so it was the perfect time to get out and explore the area, take a nice walk and enjoy the cooler temps.
There were quite a few people out getting in some exercise walking, biking, as well as, walking their dogs! The wind was cool, with just a hint of rain sprinkles in the air. As I started walking, I took notice of the beautiful yards filled with plants and trees. So, I stopped along the way to snap some photos of the scenery and plants. There is so much to see and experience, if you take the time to appreciate natural beauty in your neighborhood.
Take for instance the first picture in black and white - the fire-hydrant. Others may think this is a bad photo because of the distraction of clutter, build material and that eyesore in the back. But what I see is the greenery framing the fire-hydrant and "Porto potty" in the background that seems to be a distraction but tells a story of an unfinished neighborhood being transformed. the Porto potty also provides just enough wonder to make us ask, "Is that what I think it is?" I like whimsical and the unexpected in my photography! In my humble opinion, art and photography should make you feel something (good or bad) and entice you to want to have a discussion or want to know more about it. Not just say, "Nice Photo" and move on.
As I continued on my walk, I snapped photos of beautiful flowers and honeysuckles in the trees. When I got to the community garden and bridge, then I got some great shots! 📸
I am still learning how to use my new camera phone (Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra). Not only does it take phenomenal, professional photos, there are a bunch of cool features that I am only just starting to discover.... take for instance "portrait shot in dark mode" It blocks out the background and you are left with total darkness and the image of your portrait(s). Cool, right? But, my favorite features, will always be manipulating photos with filters. The possibilities are endless... I have also discovered "Slow-Mo" feature... So, if creativity and photography is your jam... you have to get this phone!
There is a beautiful park (Anthem Park). It is located right up the street from where we live. The park is for the whole community of Sun City Anthem 55+ Community (yep, we be 55+ old, in fact we both turned "55" this year... There are a lot of small wildlife like bunnies, geese, ducks, lizards, birds etc... that love the area. There are (3) three different ponds, an Ampitheater, restrooms, picnic tables, playground area with swings, waterfalls, bridges and a separate dog park. (You can't forget about the fur babies, Lol...) 😂 There is also a walking/bike trail around the park as well.
The park is very beautiful and scenic. There is no shortage of man-made waterfalls. Even when it is 106* in the shade, it is nice to visit first thing in the morning or evening. I was there about an hour just taking photos and walking around. It had just rained, so it was nice and cool when I arrived, but by the time I left, it was muggy and hot again. 🤷♂️ This is Arizona!
Activities in the Anthem Community: Although we haven't had a lot of time to get involved in the classes and activities here in the community due to getting the house finished, I did check out the indoor pool (which I had all to myself that morning). The classes & activities are very affordable. Another activity I am enjoying is working out at our gym. Going to the gym and participating in the activities is a good way to meet people in the Anthem Community. Unitil next year, stay tuned to see what shenanigans I (we) get up to in 2023! 😂
Comments