I've had a month filled with favorite images, many of which were taken with my new little P&S camera.  I found this to be a wonderful travel camera.  Small enough so I can carry it in my hand, ready for a shot.  More controls than an iPhone.  On my trip to Paris and Italy, I just brought that one camera and my iPad.  I was truly amazed at what I could do with these two pieces of equipment.  Plus, I was fortunate to be at extremely inspiring sites and surroundings in which to take long walks and snap a few photos.

Here are some of my favorites from the month:

PAD April 3 In Montmartre Paris I was walking in the Montmartre neighborhood in Paris.  There was a crowd at the Basilica of the Sacre Coeur.  Most were there to experience the amazing views of Paris.  These two were very intimate as they took a break.... I grabbed a shot as they were enjoying the view on a beautiful spring day in early April.

My next favorite photo is when I was walking along the streets in Northern Paris, enjoying the sites and the various cafes.  I was just about to cross the street and I sighted one of the waiters changing the menu.  My camera was in my right hand ready to go.  I only had a chance to capture one shot and didn't realize the seriousness of his expression until I look over the images later in the week.

PAD April 3 Color along Montmartre When I left my hometown of Wisconsin, it was cold and there was still some vestiges of snow on the ground.  Walking around Paris was such a joy since there were all sorts of flowers in bloom.  This in the Montmartre cemetery.

PAD April 5 Near Notre Dame I took this image in the early evening on my last day in Paris.  I loved the colorful blossoms set against the house.  This was taken close to Notre Dame.

Next was Italy.  Wow.  I had eight days of wonderful Italian sunshine.  The first image was taken right outside my hotel in Castellania, Piedmont, Italy which is the home of the Italian Biking Superstar, Fausto Coppi.

PAD April 6 Coppi Memorial Italy The following image shows the lovely, scenic countryside

PAD April 8 On the road to the Medieval Castles near Borgo di Castellania One of my favorites while in Castellania is this lone woman walking along the road.

PAD April 9 Women in Red

And lastly is the lovely seaside village of Sestri Levante.  I will do a whole series about this town.  I had the good fortune of taking early morning shots before the conference I was attending (and presenting at) started.  Early mornings were pretty quiet, but especially on a Sunday.

PAD April 11 Sestri Levante, Bay of Silence It was quite the month.  Near the end of the month in my backyard was a couple of deer.  I was surprised by their appearance.  I think they were attracted to the flowers and the tender leaves that are just starting to emerge.  

PAD April 28 Deer Series Four