"On The Road to Cerrillos"

Cerrillos NM

Just down the road from Santa Fe, you'll find the little town of Cerrillos, NM.  But you better be prepared to jump off the main road or you'll miss this little jewel of a town.  There's not a lot to Cerrillos unless you stop and wander the main streets.

Shopping in Cerrillos

Bridle For Sale

And if you're fortunate like I was, you'll meet Billy and Eugene, the self-appointed Goodwill Ambassadors of this nearly-abandoned village.

Goodwill Ambassador Billy

Goodwill Ambassador Eugene

When asked if I might snap a shot of these two brothers, Billy agreed "I reckon so for the price of a cold beer".   On the other hand, Eugene really didn't seem to mind what I did as long as I'd let him finish his cigarette.   Once our contractual negotiations were completed, I snapped away, while they filled me in on some of the town's history, and they should know.  They were born and bred in Cerrillos and, from all indicators, have no intention of leaving. Especially when they can set up "Ambassador Central" right on the doorstep of Cerrillos' popular watering hole, Mary's Bar. 

The Infamous Mary's Bar

When you first stand at Mary's entrance, you'll find no signs of this weathered establishment even being open, other than the lighted neon Coors sign in the window, along with a garbage tub nearly overflowing with empty beer cans.

Entrance to Mary's 

But when you open the door, you're likely to find a long bar, a few stools and a white-haired lady behind the register.  By the way, that's Mary.  Accommodating and friendly, she looked like she could've been a grandmother.  In fact, that's exactly what she is and she has a young dynamo of a grandchild who seemed only too eager to pose for pictures as he sat on the bar waiting for his school bus.   

Mary

The Precocious Grandson

So there you have it.  A quick trip to a town with surprises galore.  And oddly enough, visited by a multitude of artists, photographers and history hounds wanting to experience a little bit of the "old" in New Mexico.  If you ever make it to this area, bring a camera and a thirst, because there's  a photo-op at every turn and Mary will have a cold one waiting for you.

"WARM WEATHER MEMORIES"

With a temperatures settling in at just above freezing under grey January skies, I realize that Dallasites don't have all that much to complain about a far as winter weather, especially in comparison to locales such as Butte MT, International Falls MN or Traverse City MI.  That still does not prevent me, however, from reminiscing about warmer days as I perused through photos in search of a particular project.  And I was so taken aback by these shirt-sleeve days, I felt obligated to share some scenes spanning the borders of Arizona, Colorado, Texas and Tennessee.  Hopefully, these will give us all something to look forward to in the lazy, hazy days of summer soon to follow.

Spider Rock, Canyon de Chelle AZ

                                       

DeGrazia Grounds & Museum, Tucson AZ

Mineola, TX

Monteagle, TN

                                       

St. Xavier Mission, Tucson AZ

Rocky Mountain National Park CO

"The Doors to Nowhere"

You almost had to do a double-take on this one.  Everything was in tact from the framework to the double doors with not one, but two sturdy deadbolt locks.....even an identifying number. One thing, however was missing. Someone either forgot to attach a building, or else a modest New Mexico bungalow had been stolen, leaving only a formal entrance. Whatever the case, a foreboding skull set an ominous tone for anyone wanting to pass through this portal to nowhere.  This would have been a great prop to one of Rod Serling's episodes on his classic "The Twilight Zone".

"In The Pink at The Komen"

This year the Komen Race for the Cure came around on a bright, nippy Saturday morning.  And for a photographer who loves to capture people, The Komen is a photo-op at every turn.  But it's also a testament of hope, perserverance, courage and strength as evidenced by the more than 3,000 participants who showed up for the 5 Kilometer event.  One way or another, they'd all been touched by cancer.  And they were there to do their part to fight this horrible disease until a cure is finally found.  Participants came in pairs; they showed up alone; they came in honor of a mother, sister or aunt; they came in numbers resembling a church choir to support a co-worker; and they came as survivors.  They marched, they posed, they laughed, they danced and one spunky young woman even took time to flash me as she saw me setting up to take her picture.  It was an electric experience with positive vibes all around.  But it's the final picture of this photo essay that really captures the essence of The Komen Foundation:  a woman still on her journey to victory over cancer supported by her husband and successfully crossing the Finish Line.  God Bless Her!!!  May God Bless them All.

This blog entry is proudly dedicated to my sister-in-law, Joan W. Haynes, an avid Komen supporter and herself a cancer survivor who proves with every passing day that The Race for The Cure works!

"Break Time"

While on assignment to capture The First Tee's Golf Marathon 2013, I happened upon a situation adjacent to the tee box of Hole 7 that truly supports the old adage, "A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words".   But in this case, it won't take that many words to come to the conclusion;  it was lunch time at The Las Colinas Country Club.

Work commenced shortly thereafter to fully repair a sprinkler system malfunction.

"Boo-Boo Relief"

What better way to relieve the discomfort of a summer mishap than to break out an ice-cold tube of frozen slush?  It certainly seemed to work for this little camper at The Monteagle Assembly who was willing to discuss his "boo-boo", but the explanation was not about to interfere with the enjoyment found at the end of a frozen cylinder of lemon-lime.  For you older readers, this tube has obviously replaced the much-revered Popsicle, that summer staple so many of us grew up with many years ago.  Surely you remember the antiquated treat that came with two protruding wooden handles that afforded you the opportunity to break your icy treat in half and share it with a friend.  

Rush Hour -- Big Bend-Style

Two enterprising merchants cross The Rio Grande at nearby St. Elena Canyon to check several souvenir "drop offs".  Placed strategically on rocks along well-traveled paths or near a scenic lookout, these retailers garner a few bucks from tourists hiking and exploring the wilds of The Big Bend National Park.  

  Even with aspiring artists within earshot, these international merchants are undaunted as they check their take for the day,  before they slowly wind their way back towards the canyon and across the river to their home base south of the border.

"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!