Stairway to ?

It's Halloween and since this is the day when witches, goblins, and every other character walk the streets of neighborhoods around the country, I thought it would be fitting to add to the moment. (Tonight I am going to be dressed as "Swiper" from the Dora series...it was not my idea, but a request!)

When this blog is read in the future it might require us to think back about the movie "Paranormal Activity" that's in theaters right now. Whereas I have not seen this movie, nor will I, this has become the most profitable movie EVER. For a mere $15,000 to produce, it has raked in more than $61,000,000. What movie did this movie overtake in profitability? Blair Witch Project---another low budget movie I am happy to say I never saw nor will I.

I like Halloween; not for the obvious benefits of "swiping" candy from the kids, but for the excitement they have in dressing up and running up to the door and blurting out those famous words..."Trick or Treat!" When I was a kid we went to one house and the person said, "What's your trick?" We stood their dumbfounded as we had never thought about it. Of what I recall we ran away. So, I guess if you run out of candy, you can "ask for a trick" and if not good enough tell the kids to come back when they have one. You will not need any candy from that point on. Guaranteed.

Another new trend is leaving the bowl on the porch with a note, "please take one piece." When I was growing up, and maybe this was just the kind of crowd I ran with, we would have interpreted this to say, "leave one piece and take the rest." I guess times have changed because I do believe kids take a piece (or two) and run to the next house.

Of course Halloween is all in fun, and movies like Paranormal Activity are not real (Blair Witch Project was originally produced as an ad campaign for making a "different film project look real") the photo above is well...where do the stairs really go to? Where did they start? Maybe this is a "stairanormal activity?" Could this be the start of something?

Since tonight is Halloween, and it's a Saturday, please make sure your kids are safe, have large bags and when there is a bowl on the porch reach in and take your favorite candy. After all, if it's anything like our household, you're going to rummage through it and take it anyway!

Thanks for stopping by.

And the rust is history.

My wife and I enjoy going to markets---whether it's a farmer's market, antique or art show. There is something to be said about the people who are behind these local events. They are engaged, passionate, and proud of what they have to sell. But it's also very difficult to not offend these individuals as you move from one area to another---if you are not interested, you just keep walking. But to an artist for example, who has put their heart and soul into their creation, you have to be very strong. I am not sure I could handle that with my photography---it's way too personal.

Recently we went to an antique show in Sandwich, IL, a small town about 50 miles from Chicago. We have been going for many years; but as the economy has tanked, and the bloom appears to be off the antique rose, more and more people are saying "no" to the relics of long ago. I assume they are now seen as musty, dusty and rusty items that are not wanted---they are also expensive at times. There have been many times when I have scratched my head and said..."you have got to be kidding me?" Then you see people leaving with these same items. Go figure.

When we go to Sandwich I insist on buying one item----every time. Fresh kettle corn. A combination of salt, sugar and popcorn swirled around in a huge vat. It's a must. Except this time, as I searched for the kettle corn stand, it was no where to be found. I was truly bummed out. There were the fresh donut, lemonade and pita stands, but no kettle corn. I left empty handed. I will likely go back next year, but if the kettle corn stand is a thing of the past, I am afraid I might be as well when it comes to visiting Sandwich, IL

The photo above is a picture of a bus door. It was taken in Texas. It was amongst a number of rusted out cars, buses and trucks spread out over a big field in the middle of nowhere. Although I will never drive in this bus, rust and decay do make for interesting pictures.

You won't find me buying any rusted items at an antique fair, but you might find me buying an old magazine advertisement, trading card, or item that only has value for those who wanted to be reminded of days long ago. Like when they had kettle corn at Sandwich, IL.

Thanks for stopping by.

Remind me to never run for President of the United States

I don't get it. Why would anyone want to be President of the United States?

It seems you are very popular for a short period of time and then you are attacked from every which way. I read today that President Obama's approval rating has dropped. I think part of the problem is people anticipated things would turn around very quickly, and it just has not been fast enough. Now I don't want to get into politics because I really don't know a lot about them, but I do know that even though the recession has been declared officially over, there are millions of people who are saying, "It is?"

These are the same folks who were out of a job during the last month or two when the recession was still around---they are still out of a job yet the recession has now been declared over. I just can't wait for America to be back on its feet again---prosperity is wonderful, we just need to keep it all in perspective and not fall into what we have experienced over the last couple of years. Because once we go back to our ways of old, it is like a bad habit, it just keeps coming back.

So back to running for President. I have to believe that since we now live in a global economy and can not hide from anything thanks to all forms of media, being President is worse than living in a fish bowl as everyone has the fish food and can decide when to feed you (and when to pull the food back.) It's probably one of the reasons why the President ages faster than any human being during the 4 to 8 years in office--- yet I assume there are benefits of being the President. You eat well, have a driver wherever you go, and never have to wait for an airplane. Not bad, still not worth it to me.

I have said to my kids, "Please do not run for office unless it is a Senator." As a Senator, you are well paid and you can remain in office for a long time. I am not too worried none of them have shown any interest.

The photo above was taken on a very dark and ominous day in Washington DC. Seems like nothing has changed since I took the picture. There are much better days ahead...I am ready when ever they decide to get here and stay for a while.

Thanks for stopping by.

Say cheese, eggplant or whiskey.

A lot has changed in photography; the phrase above has not. I don't know why someone suggested "saying cheese" as the appropriate way to get some one to smile. So, I went to ask.com to find out why.

This is what I learned. "By saying 'cheese' most people form their mouths into what appears to be a smile like shape." I don't know about you, but when I say cheese, this doesn't happen. But it must work because not only do we do it in the U.S., but other countries have adopted our way of generating a smile---except they use different words. For example in Iran they say, "Apple;" in China they say, "Eggplant;"in Latin America they say, "Whiskey." Hmmm...I guess if you have enough whiskey it's probably pretty easy to smile before you pass out.

Recently I shot photos again at the "Sweet Maple Cafe" in Chicago; for those of you who read my blog on a regular basis---thanks Sis----you may remember how I featured Laurene Hynson, who owns the cafe. (If you are intrigued, or you have no idea what I am referring to, here is the blog: http://mrosenbaum123.blogspot.com/2009/09/thanks-for-stopping-by.html). At the cafe getting people to smile or let me take their picture always surprises me. I walk up, start a conversation, and get them to give me their best smiles. I am sure they are hoping I am going to leave, but I do achieve what I am hoping for. Except one man. He would flat out not let me take his picture.

He said he did not have a job and was not in a position to have his photo taken. I didn't ask any other questions as not only was it none of my business, but I didn't want it to become my business.

Being a photographer does allow you to meet a lot of people and feel closer to animals. (I assume even animals want to have their photos taken.)

The photo above was taken at the Brookfield Zoo outside of Chicago. Now, I am not sure if this was a total fluke, or he knew what I was doing, but if you look at his mouth, he is smiling for the camera. I don't speak giraffe so I was not able to suggest he say "cheese" or any other words that might have suggested he "flash the teeth." But he did. Fortunately the shutter clicked.

I can't wait to take pictures of other zoo animals; I will have to learn their language. But if whiskey is the answer in Latin America and Apple in Iran, I am sure somewhere I can find out what elephants say before they give me a pose.

Thanks for stopping by.

Real emotion.

Last February my wife and I started training to be "real" wedding photographers. I am not sure if there is a difference between real and fake wedding photographers, but with what we learned it's actually a lot more than snapping a picture. You learn almost everything of how to take pictures---from taking photos with all different lighting sources to making sure you have clear instructions on what the bride wants and is expecting on her day; the groom is rarely mentioned for some reason.

What's really interesting about wedding photography is you often think you know what to expect, but often the unexpected becomes the norm. I am actually okay with that as it makes it more interesting. Whereas we have finished the training we have yet to shoot a wedding professionally. We have photographed my nephew's wedding---I think we understand what it takes. We just need more weddings to shoot.

"Emotional events" are really important to family and friends. Many of us have taken snap shots at weddings, Bar Mitzvah's, prom and homecoming (these last two are very important) but what's always consistent are the people who let you know how they took classes and/or used to shoot pictures when they were younger. I always ask, "Would you like to take a picture with my camera?" They sometimes say "yes" but not always. I think they are concerned they might either break the camera or have a photo not come out as well as they were sure it would. I don't care how the photo comes out---it's their picture after all---but I do watch to make sure they are careful with the camera. I would likely cry.

The photo above was a surprise. The bride is my nephew's wife of more than a year---she was a very easy bride to work with! When you are shooting pictures at a wedding you don't look at the outcome until after the event---I didn't see this photo until a couple days afterward. When I saw it, and I am not 100% sure if I took it or my wife did, I just knew this was the real thing---pure emotion.

In the world of photography, when capturing the moment is the difference between a keeper and delete, I love photos like this. That's why they call it a Kodak moment!

Thanks for stopping by.

Someone to watch out for us.

This is not a blog to promote or to disagree what's happening overseas in Iraq, Iran and other countries. I am not a loud enough voice to have any impact as I believe this blog likely maxes out at less readers than say some of the e-mails I send. That would be a handful.

One thing I do know is the men and women who are fighting for our country are very brave. Much braver than I am. The war the U.S. has been involved in is actually short in comparison with many wars that have taken place around the world---but one loss of life, as I see it, is one loss too many.

Recently I read an article about a father who needed medical care for his wife and family and performed a very brave act. He enlisted so they would be taken care of while he was gone. I found the story to be very humbling, as I have been out of work for some time and knowing what this man did was something I didn't consider. Of course at my age I would have enlisted and been up for retirement all in the same day. I think you can see how this man cares and loves his family to the point of risking his life.

If you have been to Washington D.C. perhaps you have seen the soldiers who are in the photograph above. They are across the field from the Vietnam Memorial on the Mall. It's a very moving display. If you have not seen them it's worth seeing. If you have been to Washington and seen some of the photo exposes from the wars you know how photography has played a role in capturing some very moving and important moments in U.S. and world history. You will see many of these exhibits at the Smithsonian Institution.

By now you may have figured out I love photography. But it's not just the act of taking photos, it's all about taking the steps to capture a moment. One that might bring a smile, a feeling of insecurity or discomfort, or even a tear---no matter what a photo does to you, it just might move you to think about people who matter in your life. Whether you know them or not, a picture is worth as they say, "a thousand words." For the men and women who are fighting in my absence, I would like to send out a thousand prayers for their well being. I also would like to say thanks.

Thanks for stopping by.

Come into my web..oh and do you have a dollar?

This weekend Astro Boy opened in theaters. At first glance it appears it is not going to be doing very well at the box office. Perhaps moviegoers have said, "enough is enough" or maybe this one just does not appear that it's going to cut it. Or maybe people are not as familiar with the character?

Think about who we have seen on the big screen: Batman, Superman, Hulk, Phantom, Spiderman and many others. Many years ago when Batman hit the small screen, it was enormous. Adam West and Burt Ward played the roles of Batman and Robin and they captured the imaginations of boys around the country---I was one of them. When they hit the big screen my friends and I saw the movie at least 4 times. I remember the greatest thrill was sitting in the front row of the theater.

Batman has changed however. He has gone from a good guy trying to help out the people of Gotham city when times were simple and easy to today's Batman who is a lot darker and violent. (He does, however, continue to fight the bad guys.)

In the case of Spiderman, he really shocked the country when the first Spiderman movie came out a number of years ago. I don't think anyone was expecting the success to be this large. How big was it? Marvel was sold to Disney this year for $4 Billion dollars. I am fairly certain without the success of some of these movies, and other Marvel movies, that the price would not have been a 1/3 of what it turned out to be.

So why is Spiderman out on the streets of NYC not helping fight crime, but asking for money? Maybe he was not included in the Marvel buyout? I am not sure. I do know when this picture was taken of Spiderman he was not flying around by web but walking by foot. Who knows?

I would assume even super heroes have been effected by the recession...let's make sure we take care of these men and women as we need all the help we can get in the streets of Gotham and Main.

Thanks for stopping by.

He outlived Michael Jordan as a Chicago Bull

One of my favorite things to do is to take pictures at Chicago Bulls games. There are many of us in the stands and chances are we have many of the same photos inside our cameras.

There are two differences that make a photo a "wow" and a "delete." I know both of them all too well; unfortunately I know the "deletes" a lot better than the "wows." If you have been to sporting event that takes place inside a stadium you may have noticed bright flashes of light that literally illuminate the entire stadium. Although for only a split second, it's what makes a picture a photograph and not just a dark and blurry shot. This burst of light also ruins any photos taken at the same time shot by anyone who is not connected to the lights overhead. Why doesn't everyone have access to these lights? Because the cost is ridiculous and I believe there are only 6 or 8 in the entire stadium---they are reserved for the media and professional photographers.

But then there are times when you can find the opportunity to really shoot something that's not often shot. Benny the Bull when he waves the Bull's flag. I had thought about taking this picture before I had gotten to the game. I was fairly high up in the stands for this game and I had a really good lens with me. Actually a friend of mine who I convinced to bring his lens, let me use it for the opening of the game. I was actually a bit anxious before I took the shot because it is one that's either going to happen or not. This night it did.

Shooting sports is different than shooting photos of a house, tree, or family. Why? Because the players get traded, retire, and/or do something that ruins their image. In the case of Benny the Bull he has been around for as long as I can remember. He is not likely to be traded, retire any time soon, but he has had a few controversies along the way. He was sued of what I recall a few times for "behavior" situations. I am not sure what he did. You can "Google" it.

The photo above was taken from the seat I was in that night. I took about 6 shots, very quickly, and one came out. The others were not even close to what was captured that night---it was a very fortunate shot. How much do I like it? I have it framed on my wall. Because unlike Michael Jordan, Ben Gordon, and many other professional athletes, Benny is here to stay for a while.

Thanks for stopping by.

Rainy day in Chicago.

It’s probably a good thing the Olympic Committee didn’t come to Chicago today; sure we are out of the 2016 Olympics, but days like today do not showcase Chicago well. In fact, days like today are never seen on the “Welcome to Chicago” page!

But that’s okay. All this means is people who really love Chicago, and know how Chicago works, get around the messiness and pray they are fortunate to find a taxi or bus to get them to work.

If you have been to the Art Museum in Chicago perhaps you have seen the painting “Rainy Day in Paris.” It’s huge, is in one of the main galleries, and has a way of mesmerizing you when you look at it from a distance. It’s one where you can actually feel the raindrops dripping off your umbrella while you get wrapped up in the painting.

So why is today’s blog all about rain and bad weather? Because days like today actually are great photography days. You have reflections off the pavement, umbrellas of every color, and crowds. For some reason when you put it all together the magic happens.

The photo above was taken on a day like today. The difference is Mother Nature didn’t know whether to have snow or rain that day. She gave us both. But look at what you have in the photo---reflections, people under an umbrella, and a “feeling” that makes you glad you are not out in the weather but still willing to look as long as you can remain dry.

Unlike most days I am not going to walk to the office. It’s just too messy. But what I do have next to me is my camera. You can be sure before the day is done I will have pictures inside. If you have a camera with you look for crowds, umbrellas and sidewalk reflections. You just might be amazed.

Thanks for stopping by.

The snap shot.

It usually starts with holding a camera, not placing your fingers over the lens, and pushing the button. Voila, your first photo.

For some a snap shot is enough to get them through life, for others it's the beginning of a hobby and perhaps a career. Whether it's a picture of an exit sign, water pitcher or someone taking a picture of you taking a picture, it's fun. You think you have taken the next iconic photo and you realize when you look at the photo, or in the olden days, received the photo back from the processing center, that there was a ways to go. But it has to start somewhere.

For me, the bug began when my Dad went overseas to Japan and returned with a camera that would be considered, "spy like." It was narrow and could almost fit in the palm of your hand. It was just cool and I showed it off with pride. The photos? Well they were really not very good, but it was a start.

Yesterday two things happened regarding photography; both were important. In one situation, a co-worker asked me to explain how her camera worked. It's a point and shoot and she really wants to learn. How flattered I am being asked about how to help her take a better picture. The second situation was one that stunned me. Turns out we had two guests in the office yesterday; they were both from Sports Illustrated. I knew one fairly well, and was an acquaintance of the other. The one who knows me said, "You have got to see this guy's photos." They both have links to sports photos----so who knows? I may have to end this blog early as I promised if I made it into Sports Illustrated I will have reached my goal. Secret---I was kidding. I am not going to stop taking photos and I am not stopping snap shot.

The photo above is a perfect example of a snap shot. It's of my daughter and her first hit. Unfortunately she didn't get to see it, but the camera did. These are the moments we all want to capture. They are spontaneous, they are treasures, they are what keeps me going as a photographer.

Thanks for stopping by.

Napa.

I ran into a friend the other day who had just returned from a trip to Napa, CA.

He said they had a great time exploring the wineries, they were out there for a wedding, and tasted some of the regions best wines. He asked, "Have you been to Napa?" I said, "Yes." He then went on to ask which winery was my favorite? I answered, "The one with the green vines." His look said it all. "Huh?"

About 2 years ago we drove up to Napa for a day to cap off a trip to CA---we had spent the majority of our time in Carmel. Napa is a beautiful area; although for me, since I don't drink wine very often---it was just a very scenic place. (It also has many visitors who are driving when they should not be on the road---I can only imagine the number of tickets handed out.)

We went to 3 wineries and the amount of "sampling" done by others would have put me under. We were talking with one couple who had been to 2 or 3 other wineries and were sampling as much as they could---they would then venture off to the next winery. The designated driver was the one who felt they could manage to get there. (We left before they did.)

I do wish we had been to Napa during the harvest...of what I am told the grapes are bursting off the vines and glisten in the light. To a wine connoisseur this is something to expound upon when they return home--describing how they swished, sniffed and swirled some of the best wines, but for me, it's a photo opportunity!

If you have not been to Napa it's worth the trip. Not far from San Francisco it's lush, laid back and far removed from the metropolitan areas only a short distance away.

The photo above was of the winery with the green vines; I have no idea of its name, I only know it's located across the street from another winery we visited/sampled. When I saw it, I said, "I need to take a photo of that." It just called out to me; I think the same could be said of some of the Pinot Noir's, Chardonnay's, Merlot's and more that most people visit the region to experience.

If you make it to Napa be sure and bring a thirst for some of the world's best wines---oh and bring a camera, because the wine may not last forever, but the photos will.

Thanks for stopping by.

The Circus is coming to town.

I saw the first sign of the NBA season unfolding yesterday.

Every year the Chicago Bulls play a few games at home in early November and then head out West for their "dreaded" West Coast swing.

Why?

Because the Ringling Bros. circus takes over the United Center. Based upon the past 8+ years, after Michael retired for the 2nd time, there have been times when it might have been best for the circus to stay and the Bulls to not come back to the stadium. This year is going to be different however, as the Bulls will win the division. You read it here first.

I have been to the circus the past 3 years; it's genuine entertainment. The circus has changed a lot from when I was a kid. Sure they have clowns, and animals, but they also have introduced some incredible acts that I don't believe they had before. (Plus technology has hit the big top including big screens and more.)

What hasn't changed is the gimmickry. If you decide to eat while you are there, you get to pay ridiculous prices for slushes, popcorn, cotton candy and other "Circus food." But the best part is you get souvenir cups, hats, and more that come with the food. Why wouldn't you pay $15.00 for a slush when it comes in a cool plastic elephant cup? We did. And it's still in the cupboard waiting to be used again.

Once you sit in your seats and the show begins, the magic really does takes over. There are tigers, elephants, clowns and trapeze artists---if they fall, or are attacked by an animal, I promise you, it's going to be a bad day.

The photo above was taken at last year's performance. Unlike the year before, the focus was on the performers and not one of the clowns who led the show. This woman was not tethered to anything and she really did take your breath away. Sure it's the allure of the show, but when you see someone hanging 40 feet off the ground, you do want her to be careful. (Unless you capture that picture with your camera but no one wants to talk about that.)

If you have not been to the circus, you should go. It's fun, entertaining, and as far as $10.00 boxes of popcorn go, it's the best. (Especially since it comes with a hat to wear!)

Thanks for stopping by.

It happens every year.

Give or take a week, every year at this time Mother Nature always feels like showing off. I am glad she does!

This year, and I am not sure if it's the amount of rain we have had, or cool weather, she has shown up later than usual; the good news is she brought all of her best colors with her. Red, orange and golden leaves flanked against bright blue skies and white clouds---it makes you want to take a picture or two or maybe a hundred.

When the leaves turn, it's with mixed emotions; the colors make you feel alive, yet you know they are not going to be around for long and that's the end of the season. Next stop winter.

Since I am in advertising, I appreciate the written word---very much. Whether it's on paper, part of a radio commercial, or in the background of beautiful scene on your TV screen. If you live near Michigan, you may have heard their advertisements on radio or seen them on TV. Tim Allen (yes that Tim Allen) is a native of Detroit and does what is called "voice over." He is fantastic. But as good as he is at making you want to listen to his soothing voice, it's the written words that make these ads so wonderful.

Here are some of the words from Michigan's "Fall Colors" advertisement:

"It begins with a slow dance of turning leaves. And crescendos into a flurry of vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. When the 19 million acre woods explode in their annual blaze of glory, the colors of pure Michigan." Want to hear more? Just click on the link below...it's worth it.

http://www.michigan.org/

They may have the worst economy in the U.S. but their commercials make you want to get into your car and drive there.

The photo above was taken yesterday. The skies were deep blue, the clouds bright white and the colors were shouting out of the trees, "please take my picture." I did. I took more than one and less than 500. (I am not telling.)

Thanks for stopping by.

Please pass the jelly.

When I was a kid, one of the most memorable collections I had were Flintstone jelly jars. I don't remember who marketed them, I think Welch's, or when they were no longer sold, I just remember having many of them. Similar to my baseball cards, that are no longer in the picture, I suspect they were tossed away together and are living in a landfill together. Too bad as they are now worth probably 6 to 7 times the cost when they were filled with jelly. Oh well.

I still like to collect things. I guess once you get the bug it's tough to break. I have gone through the beanie baby stage when that was hot (just to make money I promise---they are in a landfill as well), then moved to bobbleheads (I have more bobbleheads than I am going to admit) and now cameras and lenses. When I got the camera bug it bit hard; it started out with a film camera (remember those), then I received my first digital camera. I really didn't like it as I thought it was just not for me and I, as a photographer would be giving in to this new fad. That ended when I bought my first "real" digital camera---which was upgraded to a "really real" digital camera, which morphed into "an incredible real" digital camera, that was put aside when I bought my "super incredible real digital camera." I use that today.

I am done buying cameras for now.

As I search for my next collection one thing I still enjoy is joining local museums to shoot photos; the picture above is of jelly fish at the Shedd Aquarium in downtown Chicago. If you have been there then you know it's a good aquarium, there are better around the country, but they use lighting to make the fish more interesting. Of course these jelly fish are not really blue, they turn red when the red lights come on, but they are some of the strangest looking "critters" I have seen. Just don't step on them when you encounter one that is not behind glass.

So as I have moved from a very inexpensive collection of jelly jars to bobbleheads to cameras, I suspect the next stop will be lenses for the cameras. Hey maybe I can take pictures of my bobbleheads with my digital cameras?

Thanks for stopping by.

The old ball park.

A while back there was a commercial for Master Card where a group of guys visited every MLB baseball park throughout the U.S. They did it over a summer of what I recall. That was a trip of a lifetime to a baseball fan...and one that could continue on with all of the new parks being built each year.

I have been to probably a 1/3 of all of the ball parks and every time I walk in, the "Wow" factor hits. There is something really amazing about venturing into a stadium where your favorite team is not playing. In my case I don't know the players, I don't know the manager, I know nothing about the team. (Well I know the name of the team but not always the name of the stadium.)

When you go to a stadium with a professional camera the first question you get is, "Are you a professional? and "Do you work for Sports Illustrated?" I have never had the guts to say "Yes and Yes" even as a joke. But there is a benefit to having a very large lens and professional looking camera. You can often get very close to field level, or near it, just by asking. It's rare that I get turned down.

The tact I use, and so far none of the ushers have taken me up on it, is to say, "If you would like the pictures from tonight's game, I will send you a disc." They appreciate it, and boy do they let you hang around down by the field for as long as you want. But, when you make the offer to people sitting in the nearby seats, the first question out of everyone's mouth is, "How much will you charge me?" The answer is always the same. "Just give me your address and I will send you a disc for free." I always send it by the way.

A couple of years ago I visited Fenway Park in Boston. I had never been there and was sitting in dead center field. The seats were great, the fans were crazy, and my only concern was, "How am I going to get a hot dog as I was in the middle of a long row?" My option, I stopped for food after the game. However, I was able to take a walk during one of the innings and made it to the home plate area. Sure enough, the words "please" and "thank you" got me down to the first row right behind first base. I was escorted by one of the ushers to my seat, he asked me, "Is this okay?" What a thrill.

The photo above is one of my favorites from the evening. It showcases one of baseballs most treasured stadiums---Fenway Park! If you have been there then you know it is old, but the memories just pop out from all over---some of baseball's greatest players played on this field. It was a WOW moment.

This summer, it will get here eventually, try something new like going to a ballpark or site seeing; it doesn't matter if it's the city you live in, or one your are visiting. It's just fun. Oh, and bring a camera with you to capture the memory.

Thanks for stopping by.

This dog is no angel.

Last year at this time we purchased 2 puppies from a local breeder---Cash and Carter. They are brothers and both Boxers.

It all started with constant begging on behalf of our now 12 year old daughter. It ranged from "I will get up with them every day and walk them to you will never have to do anything with them. They are MY dogs." Right.

Zoom ahead one year and the landscape has changed. Carter is now living with some friends of ours---as he proved to be too much for our household. Turns out, Carter has a gene (thanks to his Dad) that makes him very aggressive toward children. Major Problem. So that leaves "Cash" residing at our home.

Now many of you are thinking, perhaps, that "Cash and Carter" stand for the late Johnny Cash and June Carter---at least my family did. But, we are talking about 2 male (former males if you know what I mean) dogs and what do Johnny and June have to do with "Boxers" anyway?

The truth is, at least as I see it, they are named after 2 boxers: Rubin Hurricane Carter and "Cash"us Clay. (AKA Mohammed Ali.)

If you have a dog, or want one, then you know there are differing opinions here. One is, "Why did I ever get a dog?" The other is, "I wonder if I should get a dog?" The final decision is up to you...I know how I would vote.

Cash is actually a good dog; he is big and he loves our family like a dog should---especially when your life consists of being fed, chewing bones, going outside to do your number, and being petted. How hard is that?

But this dog is also no angel. He has chewed up two or three bicycle seats, thinks the couch has his name on it, and wants to go out or come in or go back out to the backyard multiple times an hour. He drives me crazy;I think he knows he does this by the way. When we brought Cash and Carter home from the breeder they weighed about 10 pounds each. That was a long time ago as Cash now clocks in at over 80 pounds. He eats like we did in our fraternity---with the fear that if we don't choke it down, it might be taken away. Like we would ever want any of his food? He does want ours however.

The photo above is an illusion. One of the hula hoops our girls use was behind Cash and I thought, "you know from this angle, it looks like it is floating over his head. " I promise you it's an illusion. What I like about the photo is how he is lifting his head---you would think he knows something we don't know. He doesn't. Guaranteed.

If you are thinking about getting a dog, re-read the part about his chewing, couch and outdoor habits---it will be an easy decision on your part.

Thanks for stopping by.

Loss.

To lose something is very difficult. To lose a loved one is much worse.

The Fall is an emotional time for our family; we have experienced our highs and lows. But it's the lows we tend to remember as the highs tend to fade into memory. It seems for my side of the family the early Fall brings about birthdays and celebrations, while for my other side we have experienced loss. This is not a blog to bring you down, it is a reality check about appreciating what you have in life and making the most of it.

What I believe is most important about this time of the year is re-connecting with family and friends. As we prepare for the late fall, and winter, we go into our "cocooning stage" as I call it. We know daylight is getting shorter, the weather is getting colder, yet the warmth that was with us only a few short weeks ago is confined to our homes. I am just fine with that!

As I have grown to be an adult (seriously) I have learned there are many important aspects I had no idea were important up until a few years ago. Okay, maybe a few dozen years ago, but I still realize how important they are! I learned to love every day like it was your last one; I learned that being critical is cheap and unhealthy; I learned to open my eyes to my surroundings. The way I learned this was through the lens of a camera.

Now certainly not everyone carries a camera with them, and thinks about photos the way a photographer might, but if you open your eyes and look at your surroundings, you are going to be very surprised what you have missed. You will see that house in the middle of the block you never saw before---although you have walked by it more than 100 times. You will see that child who in a blink of an eye has gone from a stroller to driving a car. You will see things in a completely different light. This is not lost time, it is new found experiences.

The photo above can be looked at one of two ways. It can be seen as dark and dreary---or a sign that life is going to be coming back to this tree very soon. When I shot that photo, we were on the edge of springtime---I knew I wanted to take it before the leaves pushed back on to the branches. It is one of my favorite photos.

It's easy to open our eyes and see "new" in our surroundings---it's also very important to remember those who are no longer in them. All 6 of our children are named after people who touched us in very special ways---several of them left us in the fall. We will never forget them.

Today's Snap Shot is dedicated to the passing of my brother in law on this date and to my niece who I was never fortunate enough to meet. They live in our hearts and prayers.

Thanks for stopping by.

I saw Santa on vacation.

Hard to believe, but the holiday season has begun.

Of course we have yet to have Halloween and Thanksgiving, but as usual the Christmas season is here and in full swing. I have seen trees at Costco (plastic ones), decorations in Macy's, and about 500 different gift cards for sale. From restaurants to sporting goods stores to itunes to practically any retailer who has something to sell. I read yesterday that retailers such as Macy's, Target, and others are counting on gift cards to help them out of what could be a disastrous holiday season.

Gift cards are a fairly new phenomena. Once thought of as the gift that you gave when you had no time or interest in spending time searching for that perfect gift---it's now the gift of choice by many teenagers, Moms and business associates. (The thought...let me buy something I really want because I have no idea what I really want.)

So why do retailers love cards? Because until they are used they have the money, and believe it or not many of the cards never make it back into the store and are never used! In other words, pure profit except for the cost of making a plastic card.

I assume because of this change in shopping habits Santa can spend more time away from the Elves and the North Pole. If you only have to make plastic cards, and they are not always used, no clothes, no toys, no wrapped gifts need to be placed in the sled for the long journey. (I wonder what the unemployment rate is up north?)

The photo above was taken in Colorado; it was obvious this gentleman knew he resembled Santa Claus and was more than pleased with the amount of attention he received. I guess it's possible he is the real deal---certainly his beard was real!

One thing I didn't see was whether he was using any gift cards while he was in town. It would not surprise me since he is now printing them---think of the benefits?

Thanks for stopping by.

Something's fishy around here.

When I was younger I raised tropical fish. It started with all of the basic “cheap” fish and grew into a full-fledged hobby. I was one of the readers of “Tropical Fish Hobbyist.” At that age, when most are discovering the opposite sex, I discovered fish. Luckily as you will find out later in this blog, I overcame this problem.

Probably the craziest thing I ever did, when it came to fish, happened when I took a trip to Florida with my parents. My brother and sister were in college and I was the lone kid at home. (A bonus I assure you that.) I knew there was a fish I wanted; it’s called a Discus fish. They are large, rare, and very expensive---except in Florida where they are indigenous to the region. In Florida they are cheap. It’s when they are shipped to the north they multiply in value---and fast.

So, how did I get this fish back to St. Louis you might be wondering? I took it on the airplane with me (it did not require a seat) and it made it back to the safety of my tank---it’s new home.

Now, you might be thinking that’s the end of the story, but sit back…someone else in the family took over the love of fish. My brother.

I believe in all of the years of having tropical fish I “maxxed” out at a 55-gallon aquarium. Compared with my brother that would be a shack in neighborhood filled with mansions. His aquarium holds 400 gallons of water. How large is a 400-gallon aquarium? You could actually swim in it. No, you could not do laps, and you would have to be very careful to not bump into the coral, but you could certainly fit inside.

Unlike my venture into your basic tropical fish, my brother has a saltwater aquarium. This baby not only requires all of the accessories to replicate a body of water like the fishes' homeland, but also uses the back room of the basement to do special things with the water. I have no idea what this equipment does, but when it leaks or the electricity goes out, it’s a mess.

It was the other day that made me wonder if it’s all worth it to have a mini ocean when “mama and papa ocean” are hundreds if not thousands of miles from St. Louis.

Turns out some of the fish that hide so well in the aquarium were doing more than hiding----they were dead. Because of their “passing” it raised the ammonia count. (If you understand this let me know?) This, in turn, caused some of the “deceased fishies” brothers and sisters to join them in that big aquarium in the sky. It also killed some of the coral and other “stuff” that ebb and flow in the aquarium. The photo above is an example of what these fish hide and play in all day and night.

The good news is, my brother has removed all of the dead fish, and coral, and is starting to rebuild his personal ocean; my kids love to go over and look at the fish swimming and darting back and forth so I am glad he did not give up.

The photo above was taken a while back; I think you are looking at a fish that is no longer with us ---but it really is a spectacle to see. The aquarium takes up a large part of the room and is like a moving piece of art/furniture. I am really happy my brother has taken over the family tradition---I am not sure how his wife feels about this, but since it remains and the aquariums have consistently increased in size, I assume she is fine with it as long the ocean stays down stairs.

There is a 100% chance fish will no longer be in my life as a hobby---although a great hobby, it’s better to visit than have in my home.

Thanks for stopping by.

A bunch of hot air.

I would suspect most people have not flown in a a hot air balloon. I have done it twice.

The term "hot air" is very appropriate; as the fire blasts into the huge opening, if you are tall or too close to the open flame (no you don't get burnt), it's uncomfortable. That's about the worst of the situation however. As you leave the ground it's a very eerie feeling. Here you are in a basket, with about 4 other people, floating up to the sky. I went on a hot air balloon in AZ and over Lake Tahoe--- and although very different, the views were spectacular. The day we went up in AZ there was a balloon crash. One passenger, I remember, died in the accident. Luckily it was not in our group but several miles away. I don't think we knew of this before taking off---I can guarantee you we would not have gone as we were at a sales meeting.

When floating over Lake Tahoe, the pilot was very talkative. So we asked questions. "No he had never crashed" (a plus as we were concerned), "no they don't go up in bad weather," and "yes there have been some very unusual questions asked in previous flights." The most unusual you may be wondering? Someone asked who watered the trees along the lake. Our response, "you're kidding?" He was not.

I was relieved that person was not flying the balloon with a comment like that.

The photo above was actually taken from a window at a hotel in Indianapolis, IN. It was a bright morning and I saw a number of balloons take off in the distance. I wanted to get a silhouette shot so I waited for the balloon to pass in front of the sun. Snap, snap and we were done. It turned out to be a very colorful picture---one that brings about memories.

If you have the chance to go in a hot air balloon, do it! You will be amazed how the world looks when you have a complete 360 view. Oh, and bring a camera with you---I didn't and regret it to this day.

Thanks for stopping by.

What gives?

We all give. In many different ways. Some people volunteer their time, some mentor junior associates in their work place, some give money to those who are in need. Whatever we do, it does make you feel good when you do it. Yesterday, when we experienced our first dosage of cold air of the post-summer season, men and women were on the streets collecting for the Lion's Club.

I always feel guilty (figures) when I don't feel I have enough money to give. Yesterday proved to be no different. We pulled up to a stop sign, rolled down the window, and out came the usual..."I am sorry I don't have more to give." He smiled and said, "It's been really slow today, thank you." He then proceeded to give us extra candy as two of my daughters were in the back seat. (Hmm...wonder if he is a dentist and is trying to find new customers??) Just kidding.

A long time ago, and I know it has been quite a while because this man has been deceased for more than 20 years, my boss and I were walking back to the office after a call. A man came up and explained he was recently released from jail and was trying to get his life back. I was leery. My boss was not.

Now what you don't know about my old boss is he was frugal. When we went on the road, we stayed in cheap hotels; when we went to dinner, we ate like kings. His belief, a bed is a bed, but you need to eat well. I have never forgotten his way of thinking. So, this man explains his situation and my boss pulls out a $20.00 bill and gives it to him. This man had the same reaction I had. It was between "you have got to be kidding to thank you so much." His reaction was priceless and one that is etched in my memory.

Since that day I have given to people who I really believed needed the money. From a man at O'Hare who was trying to get his wife and daughter home to a nearby suburb to a homeless man right before Christmas----and many deserving people in between. My only thinking, especially with the man trying to get to a nearby suburb was, "if you're not telling the truth, you deal with the repercussions." I still feel good when I give.

The homeless guy was probably the funniest one. I gave him a $20.00 and his shock said it all. It was his religious wishes upon me that made me smile and want to get out of there. He was telling religious figure, who is not part of my religious belief, to watch over me. I could hear him a block away... and this was in downtown Chicago!

The photo above is one taken in a border town in Mexico. My youngest daughter gave a women some money; in border towns it's hard to fake poverty---what we have in the states is immense

compared to what they have. One of our other daughters, and this was at a different time, saved up all of her money and gave it to a woman in the same town. For this woman it was probably more than she had in a month. I know it made my daughter feel very good. I was proud.

This is a tough time of the year in the north; as it gets cold and we are warm inside, it's important to remember those who are truly in need. It feels good to give---and the looks on their faces are worth much more than what you give.

Thanks for stopping by.

Old Glory.

There is something very special about the Flag. You don't need to say the U.S. Flag or Flag of the United States of America, to me it's just the "Flag."

I love the Flag. Always have, always will.

Probably one of my funniest memories about the Flag happened when I was at a sporting event. I can't remember which one, but I remember what happened like it was yesterday. The announcement comes over the system, "And now please rise for our National Anthem." The band starts and it's time to sing. Like always, the words come forward, "Oh say can you..." (You know it well most likely.) Now, I don't sing loud, and I do know the words---but one gift I have never possessed is much of a voice. In other words, I can't carry a tune.

As we are approaching, "Whose broad stripes and bright stars.." a person in front of me turns around and asks me to "please stop singing." I was really embarrassed. I never claimed to have a good voice, and I was not singing very loud, but I guess it was so bad that it was disruptive. (Even today, when I sing the National Anthem I always keep it way down in volume---barely over a whisper as a matter of fact.)

Here's a little trivia fact for you. Did you know the original title of the National Anthem was, "In Defense of Fort McHenry?" I sure didn't. Also, the song is much longer than what we sing at stadiums, shows and fields around the country; if we sang the entire song we would likely be standing for several minutes. (Imagine, we would have to put our beers, popcorn and hot dogs down for a longer period of time than we could handle.)

The photo above is one I have taken every 4th of July in Chicago. It's a giant Flag hung on the side of the Wrigley Building for about 4 days. It's HUGE, and beautiful. When I see it on the side of the wall, I will stand and just look at it in the distance. I have viewed it from water level, from a higher floor of an office building and from street level. No matter where I view it, every angle makes me very proud to be an American. I love the red, white and blue.

If we are ever at a baseball, hockey, basketball or football game together, please forgive me when they start to play the National Anthem. I will try to keep it down.

Thanks for stopping by.

Big.

One of my favorite movies is "Big" staring Tom Hanks. It's a movie that I can say I have seen many times; it just seems to reach me for some reason.

What I like most about the movie is how the lead character "Josh" wishes for something and then finds out it was not as great as he thought it was going to be. If you have seen the movie you know he wants to be "big." The other day I saw an article about lottery winners who wished they had never won;these are people who won a lot of money and today it is all gone. They learned the lesson of who your real friends are, but what they really learned is sometimes you really don't want those "unanswered prayers" to be answered.

When I was younger I wanted many things I could care less about today. I think many of us feel that way as our lives have changed. What was once a dream could now be something you laugh about; could be that sports car that you were sure was the road to "cooldum" (that by the way is a made up word) or the house that would prove you had made it. I have always lived by the adage that a house is house but it really counts when it is a home. We have a nice house, but we have a much nicer home.

Often you will hear me say "when I grow up I want to do this." I am a grown up, but I still have my dreams. What is it? I want to be a professional photographer. I am not talking about apaparazzi or a wedding photographer (although there is nothing wrong with this as the money you make is incredible) I want to shoot an iconic photo. The one that stays around for months, years, decades. I have a long way to go, but we can always dream.

The photo above was taken at our local carnival that shows up in May. Like the movie "Big" there is something magical happening here. Out of the dark comes an oasis...a food oasis. It's bright, filled with food, and has a certain magic to it. I still go to carnivals but can not handle what I used to love---spinning rides are not for me and the thought of being upside down is not appealing. At all. I now take pictures. I guess being big is not all it is cracked up to be.

Thanks for stopping by.

Please talk with strangers---adults only.

I have a confession. I talk to strangers. I am not referring to people who I have a meeting scheduled with, I am talking about people on an elevator, in line, or in the stands at a sporting event.

Even though I talk with people I don’t know, I still use good judgment.

For some reason, and perhaps it has come over time, I have learned most people, in general, are interesting to talk to. We’re not talking about hearing their entire life story, but we’re also talking more than “Hi.” Today for example, as I was waiting for the train, I stood next to a guy I barely know. We have said hello to one another for about 6 years. Not much more than that.

As we were waiting I noticed it had started to rain. We were under a covered area, so the umbrellas provided the best clue. (As usual, didn’t have one with me.) I commented, “Looks like fall is here---if not winter.” He said, “Did you grow up here? “ I said, “No, I grew up in St. Louis.” He went on to tell me he grew up in CA and lived in Menlo Park; turns out I had represented a magazine called “Sunset” for many years based there. Not only did he know it well, he knew several people who had worked there and were family friends. (I knew some of these same people.)

We talked for more than 5 minutes---which would be 4:51 longer than we had ever spoken before. Yet we had a lot in common. Small world.

As we get older we have the ability to determine who is more likely to be safe in starting a conversation with, in comparison with those who are not. If someone has a gun or looks like he is going to become violent I make a habit of passing on any chit chat. But when you are on an elevator and you work in the same building (and are confined to a small space)---I believe it brings about a feeling of calm. Just have to be careful in what you say of course!

I still think elevators are a bit odd. Here we promote safety in everything we do, yet we get in elevators, cabs, and situations where we don't know these people---but still enter their space. Again, as adults we need to read the situation before we get into it.

The photo above is one that was taken at a beach in North Carolina. We stayed with friends, this is their “beach house,” and at night it illuminated a vast area of the beach. It’s a beautiful home, but at night it takes on a different look. It’s actually scary. If you saw it during the day, it’s very engaging. Funny how a little light, or lack of, can effect you.

It’s a pretty good bet I will continue to talk with strangers, but it’s also a very good bet I will tell my kids not to. In the end it’s all about being cautious and in today’s times it always pays to use good judgment.

I have to go, I am talking to someone next to me on the train who is a Chicago Bulls fan. See we have something in common!

Thanks for stopping by.

Pink.

Unless you have spent the past few weeks in a cave or hole you may have noticed the world has turned pink. Pink is everywhere and for a good reason. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Whether it’s a can of soup, water bottle or bagel (yes they have created a bagel in the shape of the ribbon used for Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Research) wherever you turn, you see pink. And it’s for a good cause.

I don't know a lot about Susan G. Koman except there are a lot of corporate sponsors who support the cause---and that whomever was behind the marketing of this need for breast cancer awareness has done a fantastic job. I have heard people say think it's ridiculous to have all these products plastered with pink; I guess they have not experienced this horrific disease head on. They will likely change their minds should this happen to them or a loved one.

Today in the paper they announced the Nobel award for medicine. Three very smart men and women won it for their work "for the discovery of how chromosomes are protected by telomeres and enzyme telomerase." (With me here? In layman's terms they have located the chromosomes that effect aging.)

What they learned was amazing; they were able to determine how these cells worked, what the differences were, and how they shut off and turned on. Whoa. This research will hopefully help in the areas of aging, cancer and other diseases that could help mankind live longer lives. In other words, this is a lot more important than whether the Tigers or Twins won last night. Okay, a little more important. By the way the Twins won in 12 innings.

The photo above was created in photoshop. In color you have 3 girls wearing pink high top tennis shoes. But when converted to black and white, the message jumps out---3 girls, 6 feet, and 1 hope for a cure for breast cancer.

I really hope in our lifetime we see cancer wiped out. As far as I am concerned I would like to see the word “Cancer” only known as an astrological sign.

Thanks for stopping by.

Ouch.

This is the time of the year when a lot happens. Leaves fall, the holiday messages start to pop up everywhere, and many sports come to a crescendo.

What?

Think about it. We are in the midst of the fall classic in baseball; it’s the time when after a 162 games (unless you are a Twins or Tigers fan) you know if you are in or out. For some teams, they are in. For others, you guessed it, “Wait till next year.”

Then you have football. An interesting off-season season where you have Brett Favre back in yet another uniform, Michael Vick out of one and into one he enjoys wearing much more, and Placido Burress sporting one he’s not going to like very much. Good thing the Bears are on a bye this week---there’s just too much happening.

This is actually a time when broken hearts are a plenty. If you are an NFL fan you are pretty sure that even though the season is only a few weeks old, that an 0-4 start could spell “draft pick.” So fast and so soon. But there have been miracles in the past, for some teams it appears to be their best hope.

Then you have injuries. These athletes are in tip-top shape, but all it takes is one hit, one bad pitch, one shot that goes the wrong way and things change. Your star player is done for a day, week or season.

The picture above was one that caused the crowd to take a deep breath. Prince Fielder, although a large man, was hit in the elbow with this pitch. I did not feel the pain, I saw it on his face. That ball hurt. I have been fortunate, for the better usage of the word, to catch photos of players being hit; whether it’s with a puck, ball or elbow. I have seen a lot through the lens. No matter how you see it, you can be sure, there is real pain and you can never get used to it.

From my vantage point, I am going to stay behind the lens; I constantly make sure however that I am not in the line of fire because like some players, I don’t want to be carried off on a stretcher.

Thanks for stopping by.

The diamond in the rough.

Sometimes we don't see things that are happening around us. Whether it's out of view or edited out, sometimes a diamond in the rough is staring you in the face and you don't even know it's there.

About a week ago I saw an interesting real estate ad for a nice little home in England. It was on a rolling countryside with nice green grass all around it. There was one little thing that was not mentioned (and for some it might not be a huge deal) but it was located next to a nuclear power plant. I suspect this would help lower your utility bills being in such close proximity to the source, but there are a few negatives with it as well.

Over the years I have been fortunate to see a lot of America by car. I am not kidding, I do enjoy driving. For the past 6 or 7 years my camera has been by my side. I have taken pictures of funny signs, a gas station with a very peculiar name, and even horse drawn carriages when I went through Amish country. That was very cool.

It's when you go off the highway when you find the photos. All you have to do is go about a mile or so off the highway and you capture what life in rural America is all about. It's small town living with some of the best food, best scenery and nicest people who appreciate you stopping by---and meaning it.

The photo above is a great example of what you don't see in the picture. Around exit 217 off highway 55 there is a really cool old house in the distance. It actually looks like its haunted but since I have not gotten close to it, I don't know for sure. But it's big, it's daunting, it's out of the ordinary. After taking photos of the house I went back to the highway and saw this barn. It was just beautiful. What you don't see in the photo are the 2 gas stations and the construction going on around it. It's completely congested and unless you were looking for a farm, you would pass right by it. Thankfully, I didn't.

Looking for the surprise photo is what makes photography fun. Editing out all of the unwanted distractions is what makes a snapshot a photo!

Thanks for stopping by.

Life after the bright lights dim

It’s hard to believe that the NHL has started their 2009-2010 season. MLB isn’t over yet although the NFL has begun; the NBA is in pre-season. I am not sure about MLS, but I think they are still playing. We have a lot of sports teams in the U.S., no doubt about it. But when you sort through the number of players that make up a sport, a team, a league, you find out the players are pretty much just average people who have incredible talent. It’s when you focus on a superstar that things get out of balance---I will leave their stories to Access Hollywood.

It may have been the same year, I don’t recall, but I met two athletes and had the opportunity to talk with both of them. They were just your average guys---and both were retired. We were about 10 years apart in age.

I was in a bar with some business associates while we were at a sales meeting in Florida; this is back in the days when you had sales meetings. One of my associates had a little too much to drink and picked a fight with the bodyguard of a former NHL player named Ron Greschner. Ron had played for the NY Rangers. Ron Greschner was one tough guy; I assure you his bodyguard was tougher.

After things calmed down I sat down next to Ron and we talked. We didn’t talk about his hockey career, we didn’t talk about his wife at the time---Sports Illustrated swimsuit model---Carol Alt, we talked about finances. Yes finances. He was into the stock market and so was I. He was into talking about the economy and so was I. It was a great talk. I am not sure he knew what I did, I am not sure if he knew that I knew he played in the NHL for the Rangers. It never came up.

It must have been a good year because a few months later I met Jim Plunkett at another sales meeting. He was a guest speaker at a meeting I was attending. Jim had retired a few years earlier and was a star quarterback; both at Stanford where he won the Heisman trophy and in the NFL. Probably one of his greatest NFL moments came when he helped the Oakland/LA Raiders win 2 Super Bowls---he retired shortly afterward. After the meeting I went up and introduced myself. We were outside walking to an adjacent golf course where our meeting was being held. Thankfully he played in a different foursome. I was relieved. Golf is not my game.

We walked and talked about what it was like to walk off the field for the last time. I know he had been asked this question before, but his response was honest, sincere and painful. He said, “It was the hardest moment of his life.” He was in his 30s and he didn’t know what he was going to do next. Football was over.

The picture above was taken in the highest section at the United Center in Chicago. It was a game where the St. Louis Blues literally annihilated the Chicago Blackhawks. What I like most about the photo is how they are all bunched together as a team. It’s the celebration that makes a sport fun to watch. Because as I have learned, when the celebrating stops---life begins.

Thanks for stopping by.

Home.

“I'm going home,

Back to the place where I belong,

And where your love has always been enough for me.

I'm running from.

No, I think you got me all wrong.

I don't regret this life I chose for me.

But these places and these faces are getting old

So I'm going home.”

-Chris Daughtry

From my home to my hometown is 311.3 miles. Exactly. As far as how long it takes to make the trip, that all depends on how many people are in the car with me. (I.E. the number of stops we make.) But once I cross the state line, and the “Welcome to Missouri” sign is staring me in the face, it doesn’t take long for the memories to rush forward. The memory of my old room, old stomping grounds, and old friends---this trip I have been fortunate to experience all 3, but the best part of the trip has been spending time with my folks.

My Mom is in hospice and the time I am spending with her is something that cannot, and will not, be replicated.

Going home has always been a different experience for me; when you grow up in a city, and have spent most of your life there, it must be natural to assume that all will be the same when you walk through the door of your home. However as soon as I walk into the house, the ceilings seem lower (could I have grown at my age?) my bedroom seems smaller---but the food is always the same. Some things thankfully never change.

I love memories; I love how they mold the person who I have become. Part of me will always have St. Louis as part of my DNA no matter where I live---and there is little doubt the Arch is part of St. Louis. What I like about this picture is the angle; I have not seen it shot from this vantage point very often and that’s one of the coolest things about going home, every time you see something different you didn’t see before.

I like weekends like this; it’s nice to be home.

Thanks for stopping by.