Sorry to break the theme, but I'm still going through old pet pictures. Here's Poppy, the First Dog. My DH and I found her in PA when we were living in midtown Manhattan and spending our weekends in the country. When Poppy, a stray, had puppies, we adopted her. What a culture shock it must have been for a country dog! She adapted well, though (other than chewing a big hole in the arm of our new sofa). She occasionally accompanied me to work at Lincoln Center, and became the mascot of the Philharmonic's softball team. A thoroughly nice dog who paved the way for many more dogs.

It's understandable that Taos Pueblo requires a camera permit. There are hordes of people traipsing through this ancient home and ceremonial site on a daily basis, and the required permit is but one way for the Puebloans to try to exact some control over how visitors conduct themselves. You would truly be amazed at the audacious acts that entirely too many "guests" commit while visiting. Those who cherish the pueblo have a right to expect respect -- to not have photos taken of people and places where they have not given consent -- and this is one way to drive that point home. (One doesn't have to buy the permit in order to visit the pueblo, however.) Acoma Pueblo also requires a paid camera permit (most active pueblos do). I don't mind paying these fees one bit, considering that it has allowed me to experience cultural ways that are on the verge of extinction. There is so much beauty, mystery, and magic in these places IMO.

Santa Monica beach, CA P.S. That's the same kid as in my photo from yesterday - my nephew - he's in HS now

It is a bear. Swam the whole way across the lake. Came up on the bank just down from our campsite.