"The Cutie.....and Her Beasts"

Funny what you'll run across cruising the backroads in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.  On an overcast Sunday afternoon, the goats seemed to be as curious in me as I was in them as they perched atop stacked logs in their grassy pen.  But the real treat was when I was approached by their owner thinking that maybe I'd be in the market to buy one of her newborns still confined to the barn.  It wasn't a kid I wanted, but a photograph of this absolutely delightful young lady.  And did she ever oblige with a smile that lit up a cloudy day.  I've said it before, and I'll say it again...."You're  missin' all the fun if you're driving the interstate.  Take a farm road and discover what Americana is all about!!!........"

"Dancing With The Pars"

OK,  I admit it.  It's a really lame pun.  However, if you've ever covered tournaments extensively as I have, you're always looking for that one bright moment somewhere....anywhere:  that emotionally charged nano-second that captures the passion, intensity or hilarity of this goofy game of golf.  Therefore, I submit this study in contortions.  A dedicated duffer valiantly coaxes a long one into the hole for a hard-earned win on his final putt of the day.

"The Hemingway Museum"

One of the most interesting aspects at the Hemingway Museum becomes apparent before you even enter the grounds of this Key West institution.  It's the wall.  How could any self-respecting, world-famous icon sign off on the workmanship of this grotesque, sloppily finished project?  Well, that's the point.  Hemingway didn't worry about the  small stuff,  because it was he and a group of his rum-swilling buddies who made up the construction crew for this project.  And as the rum consumption increased in the sweltering Florida sun, any degree of craftsmanship diminished, accounting for the wobbly, weaving, pattern of  bricks held in place with drunkenly slathered mortar.  But in their defense, the wall still stands as a tribute to this  inebriated focus  on a fortress (circa. 1930).

"Rush Hour Nassau-Style"

Your guess is as good as mine as to where this trio is headed.  Are they crew?  Or merely workman hitching a ride to a dredging operation, a drilling stand or to make repairs on a bridge, pier or dock?  Regardless of their task at hand, the commute is something most land-locked employees have got to envy.  No bumper-to-bumper gridlock as you inhale your fellow commuter's exhaust fumes, but open air, bright skies and an endless highway of crystal blue that eventually floats you to your workplace.  This truly supports the theory that it's not the destination, but the journey that's relevant.  If ever given the opportunity, maybe the trade-off from a 6-cylinder gas guzzler on the interstate to a slow, lumbering rust bucket, ain't that bad a deal????

"Tranquility & Intensity"

Since my last post was back in March, it only seemed appropriate to feature one of the photos responsible for filling my days with activities other than updating my blog. Taken during The First Tee Spring Tournament at Gleneagles Country Club, the tranquility of the lake seems an oxymoron to those golfing warriors sweating bullets over a four-foot putt.  From photo assignments on the course or in a canyon,  to conducting a photo seminar in the Smokies, it seems hours have been at a premium and certain things have suffered, including this blog.  So, it is with renewed vigor that I've set a goal of posting at least one photo a week drawing from the inventory of photos I've taken from the wilds of West Texas to the mountain greenery along the North Carolina border.  Thanks also to you folks who've inquired as to my well being as a result of my blogging absence.  I'm back and hope to share my photos with you who are willing to stick with my erratic schedule.  So...it's upward and onward!!!!!

"Has The Bug Gone to Pot?"

Absolutely not.  The Bug IS the pot!!!!

And it's also an eye-catching display on Highway 1469 as you take the country roads from Dallas to Houston.  So next time you want to avoid the interstate, don't miss shopping this rural market with its fresh produce, jams, jellies, and a variety of sales items that just aren't available anywhere else.  I doubt if "the bug" is for sale, but it wouldn't hurt to ask if you're interested.

"Arrows & Quiver"

Prominently displayed at Tulsa's Philbrook Museum in the Native American section is an integral part of Indian heritage:  hand-crafted arrows in a leather quiver.  The surprising thing for me was the workmanship that had gone into the carrier, as well as the equally intricate arrows.  Layered in varying colors and wrapped with decorative leather strips, it would appear this hunting paraphernalia was not only functional, but a frontier fashion statement of sorts.  If one is afforded the opportunity to visit the thriving town of Tulsa OK, The Philbrook Museum affords a fascinating tour of artwork and artifacts, as well as a step back in history as you tour the fabulous Philips Estate where this priceless collection is on display.

"High Rockies Tranquilizer"

If you've ever had the opportunity to hike up to the top of the falls (any falls will do), chances are you'll run across a gathering pool en route.  The mesmerizing sounds of the babbling brooks winding their way down the mountain seem to erase the tensions and relax the soul.  If you've not stopped to absorb this tranquility, take note:  you're missing out on one of many benefits the Rocky Mountains have to offer.  

"A Survivor"

In today's world of digital photography, including everything from economical point-and-shoot cameras, to elaborate Nikon systems with interchangeable lens running into the thousands of dollars, it's no surprise to find an Ansco blackbox camera in an antique shop in Eastern Tennessee. Buried by the digital revolution, this reliable companion probably captured its share of 4th of July picnics, church socials and family vacations in its heyday.   But thankfully, sitting next to this relic is a proven survivor:  a jar of homemade Apple Butter.   And if you've ever slathered a healthy dose of this breakfast staple on a golden-brown slice of toast, you'll know why I've used the word "thankfully".  Just think about it for a moment. If you're old enough to remember this homemade delight, doesn't it make your mouth water, especially if you were to add a few strips of country-cured bacon and two eggs over-easy?  

"Rejoice!!! Rosie's Arrived."

It was just about 5 years ago when I was asked by good friend David Acree to photograph him and Biscuit, the family's much loved canine member.  Biscuit's health was failing and David wanted to present a little momento to wife Bobbie for Christmas in the form of an informal pet portrait. Sadly, before the Christmas present could be opened, they lost their beloved Biscuit.

It was only recently that a less demanding schedule and revised lifestyle prompted David and Bobbie to go "take a look" at a new litter.  And a quick look was all it took, especially when it was discovered that there was a direct linkage between a particular little female Golden Retriever and Biscuit.  So welcome Rosie to my blog, but more importantly, to a new loving household.

Congratulations David and Bobbie on your new addition to the fold!!!  

"Discovery"

An addition to downtown Dallas is the Klyde Warren Park located within the shadows of the famous metro skyline and positioned over a bustling crosstown expressway.  While thousands of cars roar beneath the park, a pastoral escape awaits park visitors with open areas for picnics, concerts, an outing with your pet in the doggie park, and even a special section with children's attractions.

Of specific interest to the youngsters is a water feature resembling a snail, winding its way through                 grassy knolls.

"Home Sweet Home"

As you reach the main intersection of Golden TX you'll immediately notice the historical building that might have been a dry goods store in the past. Or a bank. Or a dime store. Regardless of its history  the faded paint on the side of the building still welcomes visitors to this quaint little village.  But what's hidden from view is the magnificent transformation that's taken place inside this stately commercial structure.  It's now home to Sammie Barnie.  And she's one proud homeowner as was apparent as I photographed the front of the building. The front door opened wide and there stood Sammie with the invitation "Dontcha wanna come in and look around?"  Now who's gonna turn down an offer like that?

What followed was a grand tour of a building that had been lovingly transformed by Sammie and her husband, sadly now deceased.  But his handiwork, along with Sammie's vision, will live on for generations.  From the entryway on the first level, you're drawn to an inviting conversation area around the fireplace.

As you pass a display case of collectables ranging from antique musical instruments to a dog-earred Visitors Journal, you can't help but notice the plaster stripped from the walls to expose the original brick.  At the rear of the expansive first level, its up the stairs to the second floor.

A full kitchen, complete with island bar, the latest in appliances, all resting on the original wood flooring makes for a luxurious hub to entertain.  And further in to the second level, another conversation pit, plus an open area allowing you to look down to the lower floor and the main entrance.
Add to the mix, bedrooms and bathes and there you have it. A landmark, a conversation piece, and most importantly, a beautiful home.  Kudos to the Barnies!!!!!

"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!

"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.

"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!

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.

The Market

It really doesn't make any difference where you go to uncover the fun and characters in a market.  Whether it's a flea market or farmer's market, it's pretty much the same.  And they're in Sante Fe, New Mexico and Estes Park, Colorado...even as far away as the Smokie Mountains of Eastern Tennessee.  Each area is represented in this post, and since it's been awhile since I've made an entry, I decided to run a series of some of the most delightful people I've run across.  None were posed. Most didn't even realize they were being photographed.  And that just adds to the rich tapestry of a rural market.  Real folks.  Real towns.  Real portraits of Americans.  God Bless America!

"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.

"A Man & His Sculpture"

Initially I referred to him as "Mountain Man" as I catalogued a group of photographs from a recent trip to Tennessee, because that's where I discovered him:  sitting in his rocker on the porch of his studio, perched above a two-lane road on the side of a mountain.  Actually his name's  Jess Betschart and he's much more than a mountain man. He's an artist.  And  he's a genuine American character,  whether he's sittin' and whittlin' or just talking with visitors who've come to see his work.   But when he gets around to doing some serious whittling, he creates inspired carvings, whether it's a majestic eagle, a whimsical bear or a primitive crucifix. So if you're ever in Monteagle TN and decide to drive "off the mountain" down Hiway 41, look for the rustic carved sign "Sculpture in Wood", and be prepared to make a quick turn up a winding dirt drive to Jess's magical world of art.  You'll be glad you did.

"A Road Less Traveled"

Forgotten Barn

Bathtub Greenery

Tractor Tracks

Rolled & Ready

It's been about two months since I've posted anything -- with the majority of that time squandered on dealing with an internet provider in an attempt to access the internet in a reliable fashion. After untold hours of frustration, it appears that I'm back on line.  And with a vengeance, as is evidenced by the posting of not my usual single photo, but with four compositions captured while exploring Eastern Tennessee.  You never realize what you miss as you travel the interstate until you hit the roads of rural America.  And what visual treasures await.  It's America at 20 Miles Per Hour  (or less).  What a delight!  Virtually everything you find around the next bend is unexpected:  a ramshackle barn adjacent to a deteriorating silo;  a bathtub inexplicably filled with foliage; a freshly mowed field with an alien message or more than likely just the footprint of a errant tractor; and, finally, a field of rolled hay to be loaded.  All of these indelible memories of Americana captured in a mere hour of wandering a road less traveled.

"Terlingua Memorial"

A weathered wooden cross ravaged by decades of blistering heat and a relentless West Texas sun still stands in Terlingua's barren cemetery. In the fading light of a fall afternoon, the draped, silver beads seem to be a further testament in honor to an anonymous loved one.

"Double Duty"

If you didn't see the red beacon on the old Grapevine TX Fire Engine as it roared down the street, you'd hear the distinctive wail as it made its way to another emergency. At least this was a step up from the old hand-cranked siren, and since it was electrically powered, a functional light was added. But like so many things, this antique warning mainstay has been replaced with concealed digital models that are more piercing and powerful, even giving emergency responders a choice of sounds to alert the public that there's trouble brewing, so clear the way.

"No Mass"

Located just outside the town of Lajitas, TX on the Rio Grande, this small church was never really designed for religious services. Rather, it served as a backdrop to some rather well-known films, including "The Streets of Laredo" and "Maverick" (the movie), starring James Garner, Mel Gibson and Jodi Foster. Although decaying in the unyielding sun and scorching temperatures of Southwest Texas, this abandoned movie set captured the "wild west" architecture, sparing no detail from its exterior stucco to the cross carved into the window shutter.