Mellow Yellow Monday

Not a lot of yellow here but just enough to qualify, I hope.  I'd love to tell you who 
made these hearts (and would love to have one too)—but I took this through the 
window of a gallery in Venice late at night, and never got back there to find out. 
Been saving it until time to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!
[You can see lots more Mellow Yellow here.]

Shadow Shot Sunday

Any time I find a "balloon man,"—as here and here—
I reach for my camera.  Happy Birthday to
the unknown recipient of this balloon bouquet!

[See more shadows /here.]

photo Hunt — "education"

These kids are SO lucky—and (for the most part) they seem to
appreciate the fact that they are here at the Musée d'Orsay with
an enthusiastic teacher, learning all about a fabulous Impressionist painting.
Wish I'd had this kind of education (and made sure my daughters did).
[See more takes on the theme "education" here, at tnchick's meme.]

Skywatch Friday

Venice in winter: an early-morning sky and
the lovely bells of San Giacomo di Rialto—the city's
oldest church, originally consecrated in 421(!).
[You can see more Skywatch here.]

Thursday Challenge — "texture"

I was allowed to get about two inches from the painting 

with my camera—and a guard was sitting right next to it!  

Click to enlarge to really appreciate the texture in this work 

(Oeillets et Clematites Dans un Vase de Cristal, by Edouard Manet, 1882). 
[You can see more textures here, at Dale's meme.] 

abc wednesday — D is for "dog"

Seems only right, since C was for "cat."  This is
Lola, who came to the New Year's Eve bash in
her new taffeta dress.  She knew she was the cutest
girl there too—although her mom here (whom I've 
featured before) was wearing a pair of peep-toe 
Louboutins with 4-inch heels.  They were both stylin'!

Looks like we're already up to E,
for envy.  But no.  My "dogs" were 
perfectly happy (and comfy) in 
my cheap black flats—honest!
[See more ABC D's here.]

That's My World

In case these boys were wondering what they're supposed to be 
doing here . . .  On the other hand, they are from NYC's hardworking 
Chinese community and probably do need to be reminded.  We're
celebrating the Year of the Rabbit here too.  Gung Hay Fat Choy!
[See more of the world here.]