Sharon Dodd Photography

Today, the Topeka Zoo unveiled the newest exhibit with the ribbon cutting and grand opening of the Tiger Trails and Den Academy. What a wonderful gift by the Mark and Bette Morris family. A lot of people showed up for the event and I'm sure are going home with great memories!

Nothing better than nature's bouquet.

Fiesta Topeka held their annual Fiesta Topeka Parade this morning in downtown Topeka kicking off Topeka Fiesta activities.

Taking out time to enjoy what's right outside the door. Good for the soul.

Visited the Topeka Zoo earlier this week. Always impressed with the staff and how friendly they are. The zoo always has improvements going on. I think it's about a month away from opening the new Tiger Trail area!

I have been visiting the Topeka Cat Cafe since the day they opened 2 years ago and have had the pleasure of photographing their new arrivals every week for a year. The impact that they have had on the Topeka and surrounding communities has been tremendous. They have found forever homes for more than 850 cats since opening and have also provided a venue for folks like me to get hours and hours of kitten therapy. Sadly, they will be closing this Sunday, June 14th. I for one, am going to miss their presence so much. There will continue to be a great opportunity to support the cats and find adoptable cats through Team Kitten.

If you are still hoping to visit the Topeka Cat Cafe, you still have a few days. They have several adorable, playful, and loving cats that are ready and waiting. I truly hope they ALL find their forever homes by Sunday.

I would also ask that if you're not already following and supporting Team Kitten, that you look them up on Facebook. They do tremendous work and need the support of the community.

Enjoy the photos!

It was a rough start to the week for me, but I decided to go through the photos I captured yesterday evening during a wildflower walk through the beautiful Konza Prairie in the Kansas Flint Hills. There are more than 50 varieties blooming now. It was a perfect evening. Remembering the flowers has lifted my spirits. I hope you enjoy them too!

Backyard photo ops

If you haven't visited the Topeka Cat Cafe yet, NOW is the perfect time. Who doesn't need a little kitten therapy? Believe me, it does wonders. The cats are sweet and are waiting patiently for your cuddles and maybe even joining your family. It's worth the visit!