This photo is very clever and unique - a pleasure to look at - definitely frame worthy - color me jealous !!! Great job !!!

Most definitely the color version - the b/w could be almost "any" flower. Flowers are meant to be seen in color - don't fool with Mother Nature !!!

Great shots - colors are amazing. They entertain me and my cats all day -- hey, we have the same bird feeder !!!!

Old barns are like covered bridges, can't resist a shot. I really like the composition of the first one - I like seeing the open field rather than trees. Am sure it has wonderful history. I think it
is postcard/note card and hanging worthy - it relaxes me. Thx for sharing :-) .

It looks very similar to my neighbor's cactus. I believe it is in the Cereus family - possibly called a night bloomer because that is when it actually blooms. Sadly with the heat they only last one day, but another Mother Nature wonder. Nice shots :-) .

EP -- this is very close. thanks

Thanks EP, will give it a go.

LOL -- yes, I have -- that's why I use a zoom lens -- ouch !!!!

Thanks -- the one in the vid. looks more like a plant but the name
Cereus will help my research. Have a fine day.

This cactus only blooms in May during the night time hours and they only last for one day. A few pic's of the buds getting ready to bloom. Thanks

Hi DRJ -- I'll add my method to the good suggestions. I have a main folder called Photos - in that I have multiple folders, these folders have the date & place taken or event (example: 2013-05-17 -- Rose Parade . I can usually find what I am looking for and it reminds of when taken. I often re-size some pic's in these folders for e-mail, I rename the pic and add in brackets the original number of pic I resized . I do that because I usually take at least
two pic's and after viewing use the best one for sending. For backup I've
subscribed to Carbonite, highly recommend it -- it backs up more than just my photo's. I'm sure you will find a method that is comfortable for you.
Good Luck.

The other day someone asked about a free editing program, I can't find the original question. Here is a link to get a free program : http://www.komando.com/downloads/category.aspx?id=5467&utm_medium=nl&utm_source=dotd&utm_content=2012-10-05-article&utm_campaign=end

I just downloaded it - for me there will be a learning curve, for others that use PS it might be easier.

Agree the cat is a pretty one. Is his/her name "King Kong". :)

I hope you had success in recovering your photo's from the suggestions given. You may want to check out an icloud service called "carbonite.com". For about 60 bucks a year it gives you unlimited storage, highly encrypted, automatic (once you tell it what files/folders) - I feel it is an excellent safety net - well worth the money - oh, I am not associated with them in any way.

Here's my "valuable 2 cents" opinion.
1.) Your lovely wife must know that you like phtography.
2.) This is your first vacation "together" in 6 years - how could you not want some pic memories.
3.) Therefore, I suggest a compromise of sorts -- I believe we now have some 'disposable digital camera's' , at the very least 35 mm ones. This elimates the need for a P&S purchase -- but you will capture "some memorable moments"
4.) When there I'm sure you will be able to take a few shots while your wife is occupied getting beautiful.
5.) While out wherever (beach/restaurant) bring this small camera and I am sure you will find someone to take a few snapshots of you "both" having the time of your life.
6.) Upon your safe return create a slideshow, put in on the big screen TV - throw some sand on the floor & do it all again.
7.) Have a blast -- you "both" deserve it !!!!!!!
8.) The pic is from Laguna Beach, CA