Monday, November 19, 2012

"Veterans Day, Mineola TX"


Small town America is still one of the greatest blessings bestowed upon us, especially if you're mired down in a major metropolis with its traffic, congestion and, all too often, its rude, harried and hurried inhabitants.  And when you can visit one of these cities and it coincides with a national holiday, that's when you really appreciate what rural America has to offer.

In my case, it was a was a pleasure trip to Mineola TX one Friday afternoon, a 90 mile drive from Dallas.  While checking in,  the motel clerk mentioned a Veterans Day parade the following morning, and I suddenly had a priority on what had been a "no-commitment" week-end.

So it was with Nikon in hand that I joined the locals to commemorate and recognize the sacrifices  hundreds of thousands of American Veterans have made to preserve what this country is today.  And what a glorious experience it was when the American Legion Color Guard kicked it all off, followed by the Mineola High School Marching Band, plus a variety of parade participants who only added to the down-home grandeur of this event.  There was Miss Stars & Stripes astride her steed, accompanied by The Statue of Liberty, followed closely by an effervescent Uncle Sam tossing candy to the kids, and who could overlook the school children with their hand-painted patriotic posters?

But the highlight of this Saturday morning was the privilege to honor one of the vets to whom this whole celebration was designed to recognize: Parade Grand Marshall-- from The United States Marine Corps-- Private First Class James A. Krodel, who stormed the beaches of Iwo Jima and fought on Guam more than a half century ago.  







If this modest photo essay moves you to seek out a vet, shake his hand and say Thank You!, it will  have served its purpose.  

Semper Fi, Private Krodel!!!!!  
And Thank YOU!

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

"Technical Advances"

While hiking the highway to Taos Ski Resort, a dilapidated shed nestled in a stand of trees caught my eye.  The decaying wood was highlighted by a powder-blue door askew from neglect, but regardless of   the weathered condition, its contents were secure thanks to a new, brass combination padlock.  One can only wonder what prized possessions were being safeguarded by this modern security device.  Quite a step up from the rusted, door bolt still in tact.

Monday, November 5, 2012

"Unbridled Joy"

In a gallery (to go unnamed), at a location (not to be divulged), I happened upon a sculpture by an artist (who shall remain anonymous), and going against all protocol, I was able to raise my camera in homage, capturing forever a great piece of craftsmenship. Who would not be moved by the exuberance of this child who may be celebrating the first day of summer vacation, or the feel of new-mown grass on her bare feet, or just a glorious springtime shower? It's your interpretation, but as you contemplate, don't lose sight of the immense talent on display. When one talks about capturing lightening in a bottle, this magnificent piece does just that. Bravo!

Saturday, November 3, 2012

Taos Sunset

Looking down a deserted highway from the Rio Grande Gorge winding back to Taos, a New Mexico sunset is taking shape.  This picture merely confirms why this state is known as "The Land of Enchantment".  Whether dawn, high noon or end of day, New Mexico is indeed visually spectacular.