Show and Tell - 101

I mentioned before that I was taking a Basic Photography 101 class. I'm not sure I should feel dumber after each class, but at least I am in good company - we blurry-eyed students usually assemble in the parking lot after class, and stand around saying "did any of you get that?"
The teacher is pretty good, but the classes should be a little longer and there should be one or two more of them. It is suggested that we do "homework" to practice techniques we have learned. Yes, the pesky practice!
Anyway, here are some practice shots I have taken. Thank goodness for digital - I keep less than 10% of what I end up taking. If you want to see a larger view, click on each picture.

Here is a tulip by the pond. I was using a macro setting, even though I don't have a lens for that yet (and may not spend that kind of $). I just loved the sherbet coloring and crepe detail.

I titled this picture "Jailbird". This was composition practice - and whether I accomplished what I was looking for, or not, I just love this for several reasons. This little guy is really free to do what he wants, but hides behind one of the bars.

This is my first attempt of panning. I was using a tripod, slow shutter speed and moved the camera with the subject. I loved that the tractor looked like it was moving SO fast - a conflict since tractors are assumed to move SO slow.

Another composition attempt, and using directional lines within the frame. I wonder if this bird is trying to decide which path to take?Miss Kitty looks like a pile of cotton that you could just wallow in. Super close-up full frame. Doesn't her nose look like velvet?

A full frame of like items. I think this looks like one of those jigsaw puzzle pictures (the 5000 piece kind that makes you insane cause every piece looks alike).

And finally, another example of panning. This one was done freehand. Her name is Greenlee, and she is "just-a-friend" dog - but I could just eat her on a cracker she is SO yummy.
So, here is my amateur attempt to be a hobby photographer. Feel free to share comments (yes, Brit, this means you...lol).