"Unexpected"

It's really hard to anticipate a "photo-op" and that's why one should probably always have a camera in hand or at least accessible.  But never knowing what equipment might be needed for a particular opportunity, often times it's easier to dump your paraphernalia in the trunk of the car.  Thankfully on a rainy afternoon trip to Houston, I had camera in hand as I double-checked photo settings for an upcoming shoot.  And as fate would have it, we passed a dedicated Harley rider, unencumbered by the elements and totally engrossed in reaching his destination.  It was a study in concentration that first prompted me to swing my camera around to capture a shot of a man and his machine "roarin' in the rain".  But it was later while proofing the photo that the realization dawned on me:  I'd just ridden the interstate with Ichabod Crane.  If I've lost you on this analogy, merely Google  Disney's "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and it will hopefully show the resemblance of my subject to one of America's most colorful, literary characters.  

"Better Times"

With catchy names like "QuickTrip", "RaceTrack" and "Fuel City", new multi-pump stations seem to flourish on the interstate,  offering not only fuel, but franchise food ranging from Colonel Sanders Chicken to Wendy's Hamburgers.   While only a few miles away,  a trip down outdated  Farm-to-Market roads reflects a past that's been lost to progress.  It was an era where small general stores displayed signs promoting Ice Cold Cokes to enjoy while you got gas. These little stores provided a welcome break to many a weary traveler. Those were simpler times. Slower times.  And now, times gone forever.