Put me in coach, I’m ready to play

I have never been a coach. Yes I have helped out when asked to do so, but knowing my teaching skills, it’s not something I believe I would be good at doing. But when a coach is good, and can handle the responsibilities of making a team a team, it’s very obvious they have a tremendous amount of talent.

Some of the best coaches I have seen have been John Wooden, Phil Jackson, Scotty Bowman and Joe Torre; they not only knew how to win, but they could keep egos in check. The four above have coached some of the greatest talent to ever step on the ice, court, or field. I remember when the Chicago Bulls traded Will Purdue for Dennis Rodman. Will Purdue seemed to be a safe, non-confrontational bet---Rodman was the complete opposite. But what Phil Jackson knew how to do was to make his team work together---how? He used Zen. Go figure. But then again he created a dynasty.

The other night I witnessed another great coach. He is the coach of the Glenbard West Hilltoppers. (AKA Hitters.) Sure he is not of the caliber of the names above, but what he did was just as big. He took a group of teenagers and molded them into a really good football team. He didn’t have to step on the field or play a single down---but he won the respect of every player (and every fan in the stands). You could see it when the players looked at him---he had them where he needed them to be, focused on the biggest game of their lives and working together as a team. That’s what a great coach has to do. In football yelling is a part of the game; coaches and assistant coaches are quite good at it--yet these kids listen. (Better than my kids do.)

But there is another side---these coaches really care about their players; at least the goods one do! I have been fortunate to see how the great coaches respond to their players before, during and after the game. Yes they do chew them out at times, but like a parent they also put their arms around them to let them know they believe in them. Next time you go to a ballgame watch the coach and notice how he interacts with his or her team. You just might be surprised---and impressed.

I have read a number of photography books (okay, I have looked at the pictures too) and when it comes to sports photography, all photographers say, “Look for that special moment where there is interaction.” The one that happens when the play is over, before it’s begun, or when players interact with their coaches/managers.

The photo above was taken at the Glenbard West/Wheaton Warrenville championship game on Saturday; the game had ended and this picture demonstrates why players care about their coaches. For many, they’re a father figure; they want to impress their coach and be told they did a good job. Most important, they want to hear their coach is proud of them. On Saturday night, each coach on the field had every reason to say these words to their team---no matter what side of the field you were on, they played a great game.

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In this game there are no losers.

Yesterday our family travelled to Champaign, IL to watch the local high school team compete in the state football tournament. Glenbard West (GBW) was 13-0 playing the next town over---Wheaton/Warrenville High School who were 12-1. I am not a big high school football fan, this was the first year I actually went to a game---but this was the game to see. Both teams were charged up and they were ready to play. (The fans were just as riled up as the players---some wore no shirts, others had the team colors, and most of us lost our voices by the end of the game.)

At half time the game score was 7-3; not the usual blow out GBW was accustomed to seeing when they looked up at the scoreboard. When the second half started, I said to my wife, "I am going to shoot down by the field." Since the corner I wanted shoot in was barren, I knew there would be little problem getting down there. I am glad I did. One of the GBW players intercepted a ball and ran it in for a touchdown right into the corner where I was shooting. Just like the last time I shot pictures at one of their games, I was the only photographer within many yards. Sixty pictures later I got the shots that made this play magic.

As the game wore on, and I returned to my seat, it got colder in the stands but much hotter on the field. As time ticked down, GBW was on the 20-something yard line; the kicker, who is very dependable, lined up and missed. Stuff happens. Then they went into overtime and sudden death started; in high school and college football it's where both teams line up on the 10 yard line and have 4 downs to try to score. Both teams scored on their try---so 4 more downs to try and do it again. This time GBW didn't score and Wheaton/Warrenville did. So, they lost the game and the potential championship.

Here's where it gets interesting. Understandably GBW is very disappointed. To come this far and not carry off the trophy is a let down. A huge let down. But, think about how far they came? Think about how many teams would die to be in their shoes (or cleats)? I know it doesn't matter, but in many ways it does. These are the learning experiences that shape people. It's the old adage, "you can't win them all,"and in the end there are a lot more wins ahead in life. I promise.

At the pep rally some of the GBW players didn't show up. They were probably too ashamed, disappointed or upset---only a guess. I can certainly understand; however they should have been there. Not because they wanted to be, but because their fans were waiting for them. It's okay to not win, but these young men are not losers. There is a very big difference.

The photo above was from last night's game. Based upon the reaction of the team in the background, and the team in the foreground, you can probably tell who won and who didn't. But what if the opposite would have happened? Would their lives have really changed? That's what they call destiny and in the end there is little you can do about it. I hope this team appreciates and knows how proud we were to be in those stands last night. I probably will not remember the score or too much about the game months from now---I will remember that both teams put on one heck of a show. Congrats to both teams.

Thanks for stopping by.

Warmth.

There is something about this time of year that brings comfort. I am not sure if it's the holidays, the anticipation of the holidays with family, or climbing into a warm bed when you come in from the cold. I think it's a combination of all 3.

Every year there are 2 commercials and 2 songs that have become, in my mind, symbols of the holiday season. The 2 commercials are for beverages: One is for a beer the other for coffee---and the two songs come from "The Boss" and a Carpenter. (Not the Jewish one.)

You may have been able to guess one of the songs, but the commercials are a bit tougher. The first commercial is from Miller Brewing. It's to the tune of "I'll be home for Christmas" and is as warm and cozy as you it can get. It still plays on network TV even though it was produced and aired over 30 years ago. The other is for Folgers coffee, it's when the son comes home from college and makes a cup of coffee---very unrealistic in our household, but I assume it does play out in other areas of the U.S. (By the way, Folgers was a leading brand at one point---this was before Starbuck's took over.)

Now that Christmas music plays 24/7 on selected radio stations, you hear "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" by Bruce Springsteen and "Merry Christmas Darling" by the Carpenters frequently throughout the day. Two songs from my formative years that always let me know we have entered the holiday season. For those who are wondering how far back in the record vault you must travel to know when these songs became part of our holiday history---Springsteen recorded his song on September 20, 1978 in NJ, and the Carpenters back in 1970. Wow, it's hard to believe that song is almost 40 years old!

For me the holidays are part of tradition; sure I realize it's about gift giving for Chanukah and Christmas, but it's also a time when people gather and celebrate the season. We then move on to diets and up here in the northern U.S. the "can't wait" feeling for spring.

The photo above was taken about a mile from my folk's house. It's an area where they have a butterfly greenhouse---with real flying butterflies---and houses and barns that were transfered from other areas around Missouri. This barn is very old, but still has it's beauty. The glow is not a light switched on, unless you consider the sun to be a light you can switch on and off. It's actually the sunset shining into the barn. I always liked this picture because it's very inviting and warm. Not a bad feeling to have any time of the year.

Thanks for stopping by.

Welcome to Black Friday, let the games begin.

In yesterday's Chicago Tribune there were more ads fighting for our attention than I believe I have ever seen. Cameras, toys, and TV's all were working as hard as possible to get their price in front of us first; "Look at me I am only $17.00 (a door buster) for a $75.00 scooter." We bought one, however not in store---although we tried---we purchased it this afternoon on line. I didn't even have to fight for a check out---I just clicked and went downstairs. Life is good.

But there were a few signs that were not good when it came to shopping this morning---I am hoping a lot of people purchased gifts on line. I went to Target, found a space, didn't find the Razor I was looking for; but found many other gifts on sale. I then walked right up to a checker and there was no line. Where were the 20 people waiting in line ? I had already dropped my wife off at Woodfield Mall---there was no way I was going to have to deal with the usual insanity---and what was missing? The lack of parking places, the crowds of people, the traffic jams. I could have parked right in front. (When I did go back to pick her up, I found a space in no time.)

What??? I know, what's up here? Is this not Black Friday?

Then we went to Kohl's and life was as I remembered it to be on Black Friday. The store was packed, the line for the checkout was 75 deep, the deals were better than ever. I felt like life was back to normalcy. (We found the same to be true at Nordstrom Rack.)

All in all I do believe this is going to be a very heavily discounted holiday season. On average I would say we saved a minimum of 60% off of the items we purchased. I am fine with that. I think the recession has demonstrated to us that spending is good, but we have to really be careful on what we buy and how we buy it. Except for my Kohl's purchase, it was all cash.

Something else I missed. Where were the fights? The dirty looks? When I went to Target for the Razor, I was told there were none left. When I found what I thought was one, it was in someone else's hands. Instead of grabbing it and running to the check out, I helped her scan it at the self service scanner. We laughed and I said, "Hope you enjoy it." She was a grandmother, I doubt it was for her.

The photo above was taken at the United Center in Chicago. The St. Louis Blues were playing the Chicago Blackhawks. These two teams have never liked one another and a fight is usually a given. This night there were 2 of them--no one hurt, just part of the dance these two teams go through when they show up at the same party. Part of me is happy I didn't have to punch it out this holiday season (I never have by the way) but part of the season is all about how our economy is doing. I really hope it turns out to be a point, click, purchased holiday season if the malls aren't full.

Thanks for stopping by.

D.C.

If you have been to Washington D.C., whether it was the famous “8^th grade trip” that many schools offer or one with family, you know there is a lot happening in the center of our government. I was fortunate to spend more than the average amount of time in Washington when I represented Smithsonian Magazine. I was in media sales.

Washington D.C. is a very interesting town. In one section, known as the Mall, you have the Capital, Washington Monument, Smithsonian Institution and vendors galore. It’s amazing how many t-shirts are available at the reasonable price of 3 for $10. It’s when you get up to the area where they are selling that you realize the really cool ones are far from $3.33 each. More like $25.00 each. (I have a few if anyone ever needs one---along with a statue of the Lincoln Memorial, The White House, and other souvenirs.)

Then there are the areas that are much more serious; if you are fortunate to get tickets, the Holocaust Museum is worth the 3+ hours to experience. Not the greatest time in World history, but an important one to know about. Also, the Lincoln Memorial is a must see; we all know about the statue of Abraham Lincoln, but that’s not what possesses me to visit every time I am in Washington, it’s the inscriptions on the walls. (The Gettysburg Address and the Inauguration Speech from his second term are etched in to marble that came from Colorado.)

But there is one that I find people don’t talk about as much and it is a beautiful monument; it’s the Vietnam Memorial. When you visit get ready to lose your voice. On the walls are names that are anonymous to anyone, but the families who were affected by this war. It’s when you see the families at the Memorial, etching the name of a loved one or friend on to a piece of paper, that not only bring tears to your eyes----but helps you experience what they are going through. It is an incredible experience.

The photo above was taken at the Vietnam Memorial. What I like most about it is the history that’s represented on the wall and by the reflection of the Washington Memorial. Although roughly 200 years apart in historical significance, both represent what our country has been through in a relatively short period of time.

We have so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving; we also have a lot of people to thank for making America the land that I love. "Thank you."

Thanks for stopping by.

Yes that’s MJ.

It still is a little hard to believe that Michael Jackson has died. Not that it doesn’t happen to celebrities, but if you had believed the tabloids years ago, you would have thought he would have passed away well before the age of 50. (Another hard to believe fact.)

When the American Music Awards were broadcast this past weekend, Michael Jackson was up for, and honored, by winning 4 AMA’s. It’s too bad in this case he was not around to hold them. But this is nothing new. There have been times when celebrities have won awards after their deaths. All you have to do is travel back to last year’s awards shows and Heath Ledger.

Neither Michael Jackson nor Heath Ledger could walk into a restaurant, retailer, or sports arena with out being swarmed. In some instances I am sure they enjoyed it, but there has to come a time when they want the peace and quiet. For some the glamour of being a star is what drives them, for others it’s just their profession.

What’s really cool is when a faded star suddenly brightens; Tony Bennett, John Travolta (for many years he was not in the limelight) and Donny Osmond. Winning “Dancing with the Stars” last night places him front and center into the world he knew and knows too well. Of course for people my age he will be remembered as part of the Donny and Marie duo, the lead in Joseph, but now for millions of people who didn’t know who he was, he is now the guy who won, DWTS.

The photo above was taken at the Smithsonian Institution; in Andy Warhol like fashion, this work of art captured Michael Jackson in his prime. It’s too bad we can’t turn back time because when the light was shining on him, it could not have been brighter.

Thanks for stopping by.

Commuting by rowboat.

I have commuted by car, bus and train, but never by boat. A number of years ago I knew of a couple who actually lived in the light house in the photo above. They were both media representatives and sold advertising space for a living. I can only imagine what it would be like to entertain in their home----you really have to be careful about how much you drank.

Once at a business luncheon I was talking to the husband who rented the lighthouse (it was not for sale) however they no longer live there and in fact are no longer married. It does not come as much of a surprise. I asked him what it was like to live out there? He said it was enjoyable---however not as quiet as you might think as boats do come by. You also have to perform the duties of a lighthouse keeper as this was a real working lighthouse. What I didn’t ask about were the usual conversations a couple might ask who lived in a traditional home.

“Honey did you let the dog out?

“Did you tie up the boat?”

“Did you get the milk I asked for?”

A lighthouse off the coast of Chicago’s Navy Pier is not for everyone.

The other day online I read an article highlighting some of the ugliest homes around the world. Some of them lived up to the title of the article; some were just really weird. We have some in the area near where we live---if you drive by car (not by boat) about 6 miles there are 2 homes that are being built. Now I am not sure if royalty lives there, but not only do these homes resemble castles, but it would not surprise me if they had a moat. They are that big and ridiculous looking amongst a neighborhood of normal sized homes.

I have always wondered what people are thinking when they build a home that is so unusual and so large that when you have come to your senses, you ask, “how I sell this? In markets like Chicago, homes do cost a lot. But to have a home valued at $8,500,000+ is not an easy sell. Especially in today’s real estate market; I guess you have to invite some of the sports teams over and have an open house.

The photo above is the lighthouse mentioned in today’s blog. It is a really cool lighthouse located about 400 yards off of Navy Pier. This may not sound like to far to travel, but when the waters of Lake Michigan are rough, and it’s dark outside, there’s a good likelihood the delivery guy is going to be late and eating at home is in.

Thanks for stopping by.

Take me out to the ball game…now duck!

Going to a professional sporting event is designed to be an uneventful evening. Well that is after you’ve gotten over the shock of the price of the tickets, snacks and souvenirs.

When I am fortunate to sit in good seats near the floor, ice, or field, I always look around to see what the crowd looks like from my vantage point. Sometimes I have to pinch myself, not literally, knowing how lucky I am to be where others want to sit. But there are risks. I have been to hockey games where a puck goes into the stands and knocks someone out. It’s gotten better since they have put the netting up behind the goals---a young girl was killed by a puck at Columbus Blue Jackets game--- but there’s a reason the photographers will often where helmets who are sitting at center ice. The puck hurts when it hits---no matter how slow it appears to be traveling.

One time when I was in Cincinnati I was watching batting practice from my seat near the left-field foul pole. I was so happy to be in this seat as the Reds were playing the Cardinals. Well, sure enough Albert Pujols was batting, I was talking on the phone, and whap a ball slams into a seat 5 seats away. I checked to make sure the seat was still in one piece. I quickly got off the phone and paid much better attention.

There have been times when I have seen players go into the stands trying to catch a foul ball, retrieve a bad pass, or in one case go after a fan. (That was cool). Whatever happens, you want to make sure you aren’t the one carried out.

The photo above was taken in Manchester, NH at a Manchester Fisher Cats game. I don’t know what a Fisher Cat is in case you are wondering. But I had a great seat---it was 1^st row behind the plate. Later in the game, I decided to move to the 3^rd base side to get a better vantage point. While I was sitting taking pictures I heard the crack and a bat slammed into a seat 2 rows away. No one got hurt, but I was really disappointed I didn’t get the shot of the bat hurling at us. That was until I looked at the photos that night. Sure enough, thanks to my trusty/fast Nikon, I caught a picture of the broken bat leaving the batter’s hand. I doubt that picture made the news that night, but as we all took a sigh of relief it sure made the news throughout the stands where we were sitting.

Thanks stopping by.

Do we really have to do this?

This past weekend was a rarity. I can’t say for sure, but as I look at a family photo hanging on my parent’s wall, I believe it’s been 4 years since we all were together. Ironically, I think it was to celebrate my Mom’s 75^th birthday.

One of the easiest ways to tell is to try and determine, based upon size, how old the kids appear to be in the picture and then gauge it from there. Or, how much the adults appear to have aged---both usually appear to be on the same course.

Not much has changed in 4 years when it comes to taking a family photo. You get those who are just fine and move to the place they have been asked to sit or stand. But then you get some family members (names withheld) who just can’t seem to stand in the right place, turn the right direction, or look into the camera. This is not a situation only our family experiences, every family does. The ones who are usually the toughest are the smaller children who can only look in the wrong direction. Sometimes I wonder if they try to do this.

You have to bribe them, call their names, or find ways to get them to turn toward you. So what happens? Just when the kids turn their heads, someone else (usually an adult) turns to make sure the kids are behaving. Happens all of the time.

Okay, so everyone is ready, and you start taking pictures. That’s when the “are we done yets?” start to come out. It usually starts with the teenagers, and then you see it on the faces of the adults.

But then a funny thing happens. I will say, “Okay, we’re done” and then some one will say, “Will you take a picture with me and so and so?” Once one starts there are usually many who are now waiting for their pictures to be taken with their wives, kids, etc. Then the teenagers chime in and want to know when they can leave? But, who are the first who want to look at the pictures? You guessed it, the same ones who could not wait to finish and get out of there. Funny world we live in.

The photo above was taken at the Chicago Botanical garden in the Northern Suburbs of Chicago. What I loved most about this picture are the lines and shadows from the trees, that to me, symbolize how no path is perfect and how every road takes you into a new direction. At least this is what I see, but who knows, I am just the photographer.

Thanks for stopping by.

Clouds.

I think we all have done this. Remember when you were young and you would lie on your back and look up at the clouds? They would be in the shapes of animals, cartoon characters, and countless other images. I remember seeing one of Snoopy from the comic strip, “Peanuts” when I was very young. I was told, “Are you crazy?” In my eyes, that’s what I saw, “ So I was not.” Only I couldn’t prove it, because soon the cloud morphed into something else---maybe a different cartoon, I don’t remember.

I happen to like clouds a lot. I am always amazed how you can have a nice sunny day at one point and then the clouds come in and make it a completely different one just a short while later. At least that’s the way it is in Chicago. The other day as we drove from Chicago to St. Louis there were some amazing clouds; they were ominous in the distance, but when you drove closer to them they were ablaze with reds, oranges and yellows---it actually looked like fire on the bottom of the cloud bank. I would love to show you, but it's long gone and I didn’t take a picture. Yes, I am shocked too.

As we drove further, the clouds got darker again. You could tell it was going to rain and it was going to be here in just a moment. Yet, in the distance you could see the sun. I said to my kids, “In a minute, once it stops raining, there’s going to be a rainbow.” I got the look of…”whatever you say Dad.” Sure enough not 30 seconds later off to the left was a deep, rich, rainbow. Probably one of the best I have ever seen.

You might be thinking, “Why didn’t you take a picture of the rainbow when you passed on the cloud bank?” Because my camera was in the back of the car and it was still pouring outside; to get to it I would have to get out of the car, get the camera, and take a picture---the rainbow would probably be long gone and I would be wet. Next time, I am going to go for it.

The photo above was taken in California. One of the things I love about clouds is when they come over a ridge they just take over the scene. For me, they bring about a feeling that takes me back to the days when I would lie on the ground and spend hours watching them float by. It was time when your imagination was all it took to pass the time…a lot different than what it takes today. I can’t wait for summer---you’ll find me with my hands behind my head, on my back, looking up to the sky. Wonder if I will see a dog, lion, or Bart Simpson?

Thanks for stopping by.

The Pillars in Life.

There are people who come into our lives and when you first meet them you know they are going to play an important role. You may not have an inkling at first, but when they “play the role” they know best, it becomes very apparent the pillars they will serve during these times.

There were many people who have helped our family through my Mom’s illness. At first it was the hospital personnel, even though I got into an argument with one of the oncology doctors, they did prove to be helpful and accurate with their diagnosis and information. Unfortunately.

Then there were the friends of my parents who no doubt have spent time helping to care for my Mom and Dad---many of them have spent countless hours talking and being with my Mom when no one else was around. It’s what my Mom would have done for them, and of course they knew that. That’s what friends do for friends they love.

But there are those who are the true pillars in life; these are the people who stay for hours and take care of the ones who need them after the friends and family leave to go back to their regular lives. It’s hard to believe, but not only is this their job, this is what makes them feel complete; it’s their passion, love, and role in life. How cool is that to find what you are really meant to do!

There are two people who have played a significant role during the past 6 months since we learned of my Mom’s disease. Sure they did what they are trained to do, but it’s how they treated our family (especially my Mom and Dad) that makes them even stronger pillars. The first you have met in one of the previous Snap. Shot’s---it was my Mom’s caregiver, Anise Holmes. She cared for “Ms. Barb” like she was kin. You could tell she treasured the time she spent with my mom and vice versa; I just learned that Anise was in an auto accident last night (she is okay but sore) but what really demonstrates her passion, and compassion, is how she is making sure she’ll attend my Mom’s funeral. Her sister is driving her.

The other is Mike George. He works for Heartland Hospice. I never met Mike in person, I will today. He was so helpful in giving us a real “snap shot” of what my mother was going through as she fought on. He was not “sugary and hopeful of recovery,” and would not provide a timeline, but he knew exactly what was going on and how to inform a family about what, in this case, my Mom was experiencing. He used only one tool to determine the situation---the tool of experience. When you would talk with Mike it was like talking to a brother; he was there to answer any question, but he also really cared when we spoke. He didn’t have to say it---you just felt it!

The photo above was taken in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. It overlooks Lake Coeur d’Alene. Sure it’s a pretty picture, but it was only today when I looked at it that I figured out why I took it. I must have known there would be a day when I would talk about people who would be the necessary pillars in our life. Two of these individuals are Anise and Mike.

I probably will not be talking with Anise and Mike again after today---maybe I will---but I would like to thank them and everyone else who were so important to our family over the past few months. Sure we went through a tough time, but these two individuals treated us with what we needed at the time---pillars to tackle a situation we knew nothing about.

Thank you Anise and Mike….I will never forget you and can not thank you enough.

Thanks for stopping by.

It's okay to be different.

Let's face it, we all are not the same. We have different colored hair, eyes and skin---that's what we're born with. (Okay, you can change your hair and eye color---with contacts and L'Oreal because "you are worth it"---but stick with me here.)

The big change occurs when you figure out it's okay to do something different. If we didn't, we would still be living in caves and probably would not have cellphones, iphones/ipods, and Facebook. I know, I can't imagine it either. But someone came up with everything that made our life different and better---let's be thankful, I know I could not live without my Nikon.

This coming week as we all know is Thanksgiving. For me, it's hard to believe how fast it arrived. Of course I say that every year because no matter how far in the distance it seems, it always gets here in the blink of an eye. Just think, the 4th of July will be here in 10 minutes! The reason, at least I believe this is the case, we have holidays and special ceremonies is because people dared to be different. They looked at a situation and said, "I can do that, I can make that better, I can do what I want." How cool is that?

For me the concept of being different actually occurred pretty early in life; I was overweight and when everyone was doing their thing, I was doing something different. Whether it was raising fish, reading books, or whatever was right for the time, I just did something different. This is not a ploy for you to say I am "gee that sucks," I am glad for it. It allowed me as I grew to become okay with being someone who is just different---I really don't always think like others, I don't have all of the same interests as many of my friends, but I also have learned to take their passions and learn from them.

However in the picture above, this is something I don't think I would ever do or be interested in doing. This man was at the beach in Lake Tahoe. While everyone else was enjoying the beautiful scenery that Lake Tahoe offers, this man was looking for metal objects that perhaps someone else had lost. A coin, watch, nail file, whatever. I went up to him and asked how long he had been doing this? He said "for many years." Of course I asked what he had found in his search for valuables? His response. "Nothing but I am sure I will one day." That was a different response than I had anticipated. He was just fine about being different while others, including myself, "what a waste of time." I guess that's what makes the world go around as they say.

Thanks for stopping by.

My first love.

We all pretty much come into this world in the same way. The real difference is the way we are greeted when we arrive. For me, it could not have been any better. Sure I don’t remember my first days of life, but if they were that bad I am sure I would not be the person I am today.

My first love is very similar to what other people have experienced. My first love was my Mom, Barbara Ellen Rosenbaum. Although she had a real dislike for her middle name, she felt it was perfectly fine to give me one that was just as bad---Elliot. (I know this is not a time to joke, but this was something we truly had in common.)

My Mom was the first one to hold me, the first one to nurture me, the first one to say, “He’s my son.” She had a real gift for caring about people and she had many friends because of it. Many friends who have been in constant contact since April 4, 2009 when we learned she had brain cancer. It’s ironic we found out she was sick on my birthday and we will be saying “goodbye” on her 79^th.

So where is she now?

I spoke with my sister a few minutes ago and she explained what my Mom’s final moments were like; since this is personal I won’t go into detail, but I was told “she left us in peace.” I was very fortunate today as I was able to say goodbye to my Mom---not in the usual way at her bedside (I was 300+ miles away)---but my sister placed her cell phone next to my Mom’s ear and we spent several minutes together.

I am sure she heard what I had to say, and I 100% guarantee that she knows how I feel about being her son. She was a wonderful person; she was the definition of what a Mom is---caring, determined, and proud. That’s my Mom.

The photo above is one I did not take. It’s one of the few you’ll find in “Snap. Shot” where I am not the photographer. Ego you might think?

Nope, the real reason is I don’t want to ask permission to use them! Since my daughter took the photo---the feet imprints are of my youngest daughter Sophie during her first few moments of life---I am going to assume my daughter is not going to be upset , or sue me, for using it.

At 6:08 PM this evening, I learned my Mother, Barbara Ellen Rosenbaum, lost her battle with brain cancer; she fought hard, but this damn disease fought harder. I will miss my Mom but I also know she is in a better place…one that I will visit when it’s my turn. A big part of me looks forward to it, but I have a lot to do before we see each other again.

I love you Mom---I miss you so very much.

Thanks for stopping by

Passion.

We all have our passion points. For some it’s gardening, cooking, painting or riding motorcycles---for me, it’s photography. I am sure you are shocked.

I am not one who enjoys gardening---I pulled way too many weeds when I was growing up---and if you have tasted any meal I have ever created (except for barbecuing) you will not want to sit down for the meal. So that leaves passions like painting and riding motorcycles; I leave riding motorcycles to my brother in law. At least once a year he will take off on a journey----a journey that will take him hundreds of miles from home. Living in Minneapolis he has travelled to the east, west and south. I am not sure if he has ever left the country travelling north, but it would not surprise me. As far as I know, he just rides; I have no idea if he has a radio on board and I doubt he can talk on the phone. So for many hours he loses all communication with the outside world. In today’s advanced technological world, where you are always in contact with anyone around the globe, it doesn’t sound too bad!

Last year I had the opportunity to attend the 105^th Anniversary for Harley-Davidson. A culture in itself, thousands of people gather as one to celebrate their passion for riding---riding a Harley. Known in many circles as H.O.G.S. (Harley Owners Group) they live and breathe being on the road with other owners----they then hang out at bars, restaurants, and other gathering spots. I can’t say for sure, but most do own a Harley.

Even though the recession has hurt Harley’s business, I love their mantra, “Screw it, Let’s Ride.” Sounds like what you would hear from a Harley owner doesn’t it? Not really. Many Harley owners are business owners, moms with kids, religious leaders and others you would not stereotype as H.O.G.S. They just love their Harley’s---in fact, the brand “Harley-Davidson” is second to “Mom” in the tattoo world.

If you think Harley only sells motorcycles, be sure and visit one of their retail stores around the country; not the motorcycle stores, the merchandise stores. They sell jackets, bottles, patches, baby clothing and much more. Because as I am told, “Once you have Harley in your blood, you bleed black.”

The photo above was taken at the 105^th Anniversary. A father and son were at the grounds and I asked if I could take the father’s picture. The son was just as large as Dad, but he didn’t have the beard. I thought that added to the Harley mystique. I have never ridden on a Harley, nor do I own anything with the Harley-Davidson name on it, but if I did, I would wear it with pride. Because as they say, “there’s nothing like having a Harley between your legs.”

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Snakes? No thanks.

There are times when I wonder why I like rural areas. I was not born in a small town, I have never worked on a farm, nor do I want to, but there is an attraction to many of the sites you encounter when you leave the big city.

One of the reasons I don’t like to hang out in rural areas has to do with snakes and other creatures that live amongst the corn, soybeans, and other crops. I was once visiting a horse stable and out of the hay slithered a nice big multi-colored snake. You would have thought the world was coming to an end based upon my response. Not a scream, it wouldn’t come out, but a complete freeze---one that would not have allowed me to run away even if I wanted to.

There was also the time when I was at a sales meeting when it became known of my complete fear of these disgusting reptiles. We had roommates at the meeting, and for some reason my roommate thought it would be funny to place a long rubber black snake on my chair as I sat down to eat. Granted the dropping of my plate did create a lot of well-deserved laughter, but it was his scream when I snuck into the bathroom as he was showering --and let that same rubber snake slither down into the tub--- that gave me the appropriate payback. No one heard it, but I did. I could not have been happier.

The knowledge of this fear has made me the brunt many practical jokes; I have a friend who was kind enough to look for opportunities where snakes would be found and then joke that we would see one. For example, we were on a golf course in the Arizona desert---he made sure we played during the time when rattlesnakes were known to be found on the course. Luckily we didn’t see any, but I had a club in my hand at all times incase we did. I paid him back in a very fun way---if he is reading this blog he will know what the flight attendant calling him is all about.

The photo above is one of the most beautiful pictures I have been fortunate to take of a barn. Off of a highway in Ohio, I pulled off the highway, checked to make sure there were no semi-tractors heading on to the shoulder of the road, and took several pictures. The colors of the season, in combination with the blue roof and tractor, really made this picture a photo. Oh, and not having a snake pop out from brush helped me make sure I didn't drop my camera and run.

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It's all in the way you look at it.

I am not a big art connoisseur. I still like Norman Rockwell, Leroy Neiman, and others that you will not find in some of the famous art museums around the world. I have been to the Louvre, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and others, and there is no doubt they have beautiful paintings, sculptures and more. I just have trouble envisioning them in my home. (Not the real ones, this is me Joe Blogwriter after all!!)

What amazes me when I visit these museums are the ages of these paintings. To think these artists had the instruments and materials to create these "masterpieces" and still have them around today---at times some 400+ years later. When you consider many of these artists were old when in today's times would be considered at best, early middle age, makes it even more impressive. I know no matter how old I live to be, I won't paint anything like this---okay maybe I will, but I sure hope that "art gene" shows up soon!

Which brings me to something that happened yesterday. I was at Brookfield Zoo outside of Chicago and they had the winners of a photo contest conducted by the zoo. Turns out 2 brothers one first and second prize for the under 12 category. One was 8 and one was 10. I was talking to their Mom and she said, "They both took these pictures with old point and shoot cameras they had at the time." I was expecting at least one of the "good cameras." Nope, they were your basic early point and shoots that are now hidden at the bottom of a drawer. Their photos were really good. To think, the camera I use is much more expensive---maybe I will switch to a point and shoot.

As I spoke to the Mom, the boys came over. I said, "Your pictures are really good." They of course were polite and thanked me and then they went over to play with the box full of toys they had won---guess they are still boys after all. I thought to myself, "these boys are more than 40 years younger than I am, and look at the photos they took. Can you imagine what they will be doing at my age?" It goes to show when you have got the knack, it starts very young---and the equipment is really good. (Better than the Kodak Instamatic I referred to yesterday for sure.) I didn't ask them for their autograph, hmmm...maybe I should have? Just kidding.

The photo above was taken at the Chicago Art Museum; I went there to take pictures one day. I was actually hoping to take one like Norman Rockwell's "The Connoisseur" but no such luck. This one just kind of happened. There was a man looking at this picture and he cocked his head as if the painting would look different from another angle. Maybe for him it did, but for me, it looked just the same. It just goes to show, we all look at things differently and for me paintings and sculptures are nice, but I will take a photograph instead.

Thanks for stopping by.

Lyle.

This past week it was announced that music fans attending concerts would be allowed to take photos on their "point and shoot" cameras. I have no idea where concert promoters and security have been, but people have been taking pictures at concerts for as long as I can remember.

Why did they suddenly say it was okay? Because they learned the photographs taken by fans, which more than likely never make it beyond the scrap book, have had no effect on sales of memorabilia. Pardon my 12-year old impression, well "duh." When you are sitting hundreds of feet away, with lights flashing on the stage, the best you can do is get an outline. Who would buy this?

Many years ago, and we are talking a long time ago, my friends and I went to see the rock band Queen. They were just incredible. One of my friends snuck in a camera. It was a film camera and I assume it was a Kodak Instamatic for those who remember them. In other words, it was about 1/1000th of what we have today; we thought they were the best cameras at the time---and for us, they were. Of what I recall the photos were pretty much a bright light with an outline of a body. Funny, no one wanted to buy them.

So now you will be able to bring in a point and shoot digital camera---something that has been happening since they were introduced--- and now without the fear of being told you can't. Funny thing about photography, and musical events, is there's never a question when it comes to pro sports or even Ringling Brothers. Most security will say to me, "nice camera."

The photo above was taken at Ravinia---the outdoor theater located about 20+ miles from Chicago. It's a great setting where you can sit on the lawn, have a nice dinner, and enjoy the music. Or, if you would like, you can purchase seats in the pavilion for a more intimate opportunity to be closer to the performer. In this case it was Lyle Lovett, someone I was not very familiar with---all I knew was he was briefly married to Julia Roberts. The concert turned out to be much better than expected---nice night, great acoustics, and my wife's point and shoot.

It's going to be a while until they allow the better cameras to be included as the "accepted ones"

at concerts and performances---I am reasonably sure when the photos are taken they will sell briskly when they become available.

Really? No.

Thanks for stopping by.

Somebody actually wants this job.

America has been built upon an economy where you work, you spend, you enjoy. We all know from the last year that this doesn’t always work as well as we had hoped.

There are some jobs that I could see myself doing, but there are many that I have no reason to even consider. I think we all fall into this category. For example, I would not want to be a doctor; it’s more than the risk factor of saving someone’s life, it’s also the knowledge it takes to have a total understanding of probably the most complicated “system” we could ever imagine. The human body. Even “House” gets stumped at times and let’s face it, the guy can pretty much cure anything when he puts his mind to it. (Believe it or not, there are people out there who actually think he is a real doctor.)

I also would not want to be an engineer; I am not really good with numbers (hated geometry) and knowing you have to build what will be a structurally sound building, bridge, or playground is something I would struggle to understand.

The one job I am 100% sure I would not want is to be President of the United States. Sure, there are many people who think it’s an easy job, and one they could easily handle---I agree with them and encourage them to run for office in 2012. However, you will not see my name on any signs, TV commercials or buttons---you can be sure of that.

Of course there are some jobs I would love to have---I will focus (no pun intended) on the one I would like to have to complement my full-time job. I would like to be a photographer for Sports Illustrated. I have made this comment 3 times so far in “Snap. Shot.” but so far the phone has not rung. I have not heard from the publisher, editor, or chief photographer---no voice at the end of the phone saying, “Mark, big game this weekend---we need you on the sidelines.” Until then I guess I will just keep taking pictures in hopes of getting the call. You know what? They actually have my number as I know people at SI---that’s gratitude for you.

The photo above demonstrates a job I would for sure never be interested in applying for---I suspect I am not alone. I went to the Professional Bullrider’s show early this year. For some crazy reason I wanted to take pictures of bullriders. I am so glad I went; I had a great time, the crowd was so into it, and the bullriders were very appreciative for the opportunity to perform for us. The only ones who didn’t have an opinion, and perhaps they don’t like their jobs were the bulls. Maybe they were more interested in being an engineer, doctor or politician.

Thanks for stopping by.

Nemo found me.

It wasn't long ago that when a movie came out, it played in one theater for several weeks and then was replaced with another movie that would occupy the same space the other one had had---get this, it’s because there was only one screen! Then came Megaplexes where up to 30 movies played under one roof. Sure, some of the movies were the same, but if you missed the 2:15 showing, there was a 3:10 not far behind---and you could buy popcorn and snacks while you waited for the next show to begin. (Plus, you got a really good seat!)

Of course things have changed dramatically in the movie business; in the mid 1980s a movie went from being only seen in a movie theater (and later on TV) to now coming out on a VHS tape (for a reasonable $79.99) which morphed into DVD’s to pay per view and so on. Well, it’s going to change again. It was just announced today that Disney is going to create ways to make sure you can watch a movie when it comes out. But not just in theaters. Think about it, a movie comes out on a Friday night, you’re tired and the weather is lousy. You just don’t feel like making the trip to the theater. So now you’ll be able to watch it at home---because soon you are going to provided with limited access to the movie’s digital file the day the movie is released. In other words, when you are looking to “Find Nemo” he will find you! It can be on your ipod, computer screen or home theater system.

Who wins? We do. You’ll have a choice to see it when you want and where you want; if you want to see it on the big screen at a theater, you’ll still be able to!

Who loses? Probably the theaters---but maybe not. I am not sure of the numbers, but theaters typically don’t make money on a movie until it’s been out at least 2 weeks; they typically make their money on the $6.50 popcorn and $4.75 drinks. But if people are watching the movie at home, or on their ipod so goes the overpriced popcorn, snacks and $10.00 seats.

Feeling bad yet for the theaters? You may not have to.

Here's why?

There could be a new development happening---by the way, this is just a guess. If this technology does catch on, you will not only see a drop in ticket prices at the movie theaters, but really good incentives to keep you coming back to the multiplexes. It’s one way the theaters can stay competitive---and a way they can make an experience out of it for all of us. Who will fund these changes? Advertisers and marketers who want you to have good feelings about their products.

Imagine going to your favorite 30-screen megaplex to learn dinner is being served thanks to Healthy Choice or some other food company. Sure the movie theater will lose out on some popcorn business, but they will be well paid by the advertiser; plus there still will be popcorn, candy and Cokes sold because not every one will want to eat a Healthy Choice chicken dish.

Okay, back to the future.

The photo above was taken at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago---this clown fish, AKA Nemo, was swimming alone. It reminded me of one of my favorite movies I have seen with my kids. I’ll never forget it, it was the day we missed the 11:40, 12:15 and 1:30 performances at the megaplex---fortunately there was another showing 25 minutes later. Disney knows how to make us want to see a movie so bad we’ll wait at the theater---but soon we won’t have to.

Thanks for stopping by.

These are the good old days.

When Carly Simon sang these words back in early 1975, we were in a similar situation as we are today. We were coming to the end of a war, the economy was in a challenging spot, and America had been through a rough patch----so what happened? We made it. Today I look upon those days as times I enjoyed. I entered college, voted for the first time, and saw, and felt, the impact of what was learned through the tumultuous years that had just ended.

Today we look at high unemployment, a fragile economy, one that I do believe is on its way back, and a very radical change in our government----whether it's a health care bill, the first African-American President, or whatever is yet to come. Some will look at these times as being horrible, and rightly so in some respects, but 30 years from now, unless time ends today, we will likely say, "those were the good old days."

The best example I can give is when I occasionally listen to the Oldies station here in Chicago---you hear songs from the Police, Rolling Stones, and Genesis. Back in the 1970s and 80s, these were the bands burning up the airways, today they are heard on elevators, ipods, and the oldies station. Why? Because in our minds they represent the good old days; the days when things were easier, were more care free, and include the memories of the good things that happened to us. (Sure there are bad memories associated with music, but unless it's a song that crushed your heart when you broke up with your boyfriend/girl friend--they seem to push the bad aside and bring forward the "good old days." They do for me at least.)

Today is Veteran's Day. A day where we honor those who went to war for the millions of American's who are back home and hoping and praying for their safe to U.S. soil. Unfortunately some don't make it home---and in some cases when they do come home they are not the same person we knew when they left. But no matter what, these are the men and women who represent America; they are brave, loyal, and when it is all said and done, our heroes.

The photo above was taken in California on the way to Lake Tahoe. It was a small town, a real throw back, and I saw this car with a photo of James Dean in the back seat window. That caught my eye, but it was the old post office in back of it that made the snap shot a photo; it was not one of the modern post offices, it was from the good old days. The days when we listened to songs that made us smile, cry and wonder what lies ahead. As Carly Simon sang, "These are the good old days."

Thanks for stopping by.

Take a bite.

It wasn’t that long ago when a Walkman was the norm, a computer had the name IBM, Compaq, or Dell on it, and a cell phone was either made by Motorola or Nokia; times have changed and you can blame Steve Jobs. He didn’t invent the computer, cell phone or portable music player---he made them Apples. And America has taken a huge bite.

I have never met Steve Jobs, but I did have an encounter---one that I have told to anyone who would listen. I received an ipod for the holidays back in 2002---when they first came out. Back then they were the size of a cigarette package, could only play songs---up to 1,000 of them---and if you dropped or lost it you were out nearly $400. (Today that same unit holds more than 30,000 songs, plays TV shows and movies, and takes videos---all for half the price.)

The first ipod I received lasted 3 weeks as the hard drive crashed when I downloaded my second batch of songs. I took it back and received a replacement at the Apple store---no questions asked. The replacement lasted less than 4 weeks before it crashed. Yes, Apple had a few bugs to get out of it…but it still was very cool and the sound, when it worked, was fantastic. I had much better luck with the 3^rd ipod---it lasted a little more than a year before it crashed. But something happened that I didn’t like or expect---Apple said the warranty had expired because it was more than a year old.

Here’s where it gets interesting. I spoke with Apple Care---they are the ones who help you fix Apple products. When they too said, “I am sorry but it’s out of warranty.” I then asked if I could talk with a supervisor. She explained she was one. So I asked, “May I have Steve Job’s address at headquarters?” Very politely she gave it to me. So I wrote to him.

About 5 days later I received a call from Cupertino, CA. I thought it was a joke; sure enough Steve Jobs read my letter and had his personal assistant handle the situation. His name was Alan and he said, “Mr. Jobs would like to make sure you are a satisfied Apple customer.” I was floored. Sure enough after hearing my situation, Alan said, “Let me contact the nearest Apple Store and take care of this.” He did and I have continued to be a devoted Apple user having purchased every product they have ever sold. All it took was a phone call.

The photo above was taken in our living room. I thought it looked like a still life painting; more important it reminded me when you see something that you like, it’s perfectly normal to want to take a bite. I did and it was an Apple.

Thanks for stopping by.

Down, but not out, in the Motor city.

I have only been to Michigan 3 times. I have never made it to Detroit. After what we have seen happen to the city, and surrounding suburbs over the last few years, I was not sure there would be a city to go to.

But, I think their demise was written off a bit pre-maturely. You all can laugh, but something interesting is happening. The automobile market is showing it’s not dead---maybe on life support---but certainly not dead. Last week, Ford Motor Company, at one point a company fading faster than any of the others, made a profit. A $3,000,0000,000 one. (For those who don’t recognize all of those zeros, that would be $3 Billion.) Ford does not have to pay back their TARP fund because they didn’t accept it when GM and Chrysler did. (Pretty impressive---but they thought ahead having restructured their debt a couple of years earlier.)

Okay, enough of the business talk.

What has impressed me about the car companies are their guts to have stayed in business after every thing they did to screw up. But now GM is basically saying, “You want to know how serious we are? Take a 60-day test drive. You don’t like it, return it.” I like this kind of confidence---it’s part of the American spirit---the spirit we Americans really need at this time; because no matter how damaged our economy is at this time, we will be back and stronger. What’s cool about what’s happened in Detroit is they have worked to overcome some huge hurdles and kept their pride—look at their sports teams and you know we Chicagoans should figure out we don’t have it too bad!

A friend of mine lives in Detroit and is in the advertising business; a very tough business to be in at this time, especially during this past 12 months. We spoke last week and instead of being down and out, he explained that he has had some business coming in and thinks the economic turn is coming. Not tomorrow, but still coming. I agree with him---I can’t wait.

The photo above was taken in Texas---the license plate should have given it away---and where many people might see this as rusted out trash, I thought it made a great photo. Every time I look at this photo I think, “this car was new on a dealer’s lot at one point and now sitting rotting in a field.” Sad but true. So what’s the significance?

It means it’s time to buy a new car, perhaps one made in Detroit.

Thanks for stopping by.

Suits me.

It wasn't many years ago when everyone, and I mean everyone would dress up to go to work. Men would wear suits, women would wear skirts or dresses and that's the way it was. It's no longer that way today. Today it seems anything goes---within reason of course.

The last time I wore a suit to work was more than 2 years ago. Every time I go into my closet and see a suit I think about going to Temple. It's the only time I wear a suit---I will always wear a suit to Temple as this is something my parents have instilled in me. You get dressed up when you are in the sanctuary. Period.

I have to admit sometimes wearing a suit makes me feel more professional when I am on a call, however those feelings are fleeting once I realize I don't have to wear one. I just like to wear pants and a sweater during the winter and fall---and pants and a short sleeved shirt in the summer. (Spring rarely shows up in Chicago so why bother commenting on it.)

There are some areas of the country wear suits are still the norm. Go to New York City and it's like stepping back in time as far as what is worn. Men still dress up. Women still dress up. Even when I go to New York I have dressed up. By the way, that was the last time I wore a suit to work. As they say, "When in Rome..."

I have been in the advertising and marketing business for my entire career. I was not around for the 1960s advertising revolution and am glad I was not...I doubt I would have been able to handle it. All you have to do is watch Mad Men on AMC to get a realistic feel of what these times were like. But, I was around in the early 1980s, even had a blue seer sucker suit, and caught the tail end of the 3 martini lunches; these were times when business was conducted before noon, and little happened after you arrived back to the office after lunch. I was able, I guess this is the appropriate word, to experience what I really am glad is no longer part of the business culture. I saw some very good men and women fall hard during these times and not get up---just not worth it, and in today's times business is always on.

The photo above was taken on Michigan Avenue in Chicago; men walk around with billboard signs handing out information about substantial savings on suits and mens clothing. They hand them out in all types of weather---this night it was well below freezing. What I like about the photo are the blur of the people. Like the men's suit business it seems like this part of life has in many respects passed us by.

Thanks for stopping by.

W.W.J.D.?

A few years back this was a frequent question seen on everything from t-shirts, to wrist bands, to bumper stickers, etc. I have not seen it as often so I suspect either the question was answered or a new question is being asked?

I suspect however that it will be popular again. Not for religious reasons, but for the 2010 NBA free agency---in other words, "What Will James Do?" (As in LeBron James.)

Yesterday a friend of mine and I were having lunch when I mentioned, "Did you see the Bulls beat the Cavs last night?" He did. Next to us were a man and woman and the wife said, "Did I hear you mention something about the Cleveland Cavaliers?" Turns out they were from Cleveland and were huge Cavalier fans. Small world when you are in Water Tower Place in the middle of Chicago. We talked about a lot of things, for a half an hour, and finally decided that we all hoped LeBron James stays in Cleveland. As the husband explained, "He just built a $26 million home (should be easy to sell in Cleveland where the median price of a home is $139,000) and he is everything in the marketplace." Sometimes however the bright lights of a bigger city blind you, so you never know what a star athlete will do.

I really do hope that LeBron stays in Cleveland. Frankly the city does deserve to have a marquee player like LeBron and even though New York, Miami, and Los Angeles might have the glow of a brighter light, in the end you are a smaller fish in a much larger pond. Plus if you really want to spend more time in these cities it's easy to just fly there, have fun, and then in LeBron's case nestle back into your 35,000 square foot home.

But funny things have happened----many professional athletes get their starts in smaller cities and then are lured to the bigger ones for fame and glory. Leaving their fan base crying in their beers and scratching their heads asking, "Why would they leave us? Don't they like being here?" It's like losing a friend as fan's see it. Sometimes they get really mad---just ask Green Bay fans about Brett Farve.

The photo above was taken at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee. I had a fantastic seat that I bought on E-Bay from a guy from Chicago. Following me? I wanted to see LeBron play and the seller had 4 tickets---I sat by him and his 2 kids---he talked the entire game. I focused on LeBron and tuned him out completely. (My greatest concern after purchasing the ticket was---what happens if LeBron takes the night off?)

Certainly having a photo of LeBron jamming the ball in practice is a good shot, but it's the look by Eric Snow to the left side that makes this picture. He was in awe---and it shows.

I have no idea W.W.J.D.? But I do know he is very fun to watch, has an incredible talent, and adds a lot to the town who has supported him from High School to the NBA. So whatever he does, I do hope I have the opportunity to take pictures of him again---he makes the camera click faster than any player I have ever photographed.

Thanks for stopping by.

70/30

Just for today try and be different.

Recently I was in a meeting where the speaker made a very intuitive comment. She said, "In an average day 70% of everything we do is routine. We get up for work, we brush our teeth, we have breakfast, go to work, etc." She went on to say, "It's the other 30% of your day that can make life more interesting." In other words, we are not drones, we are humans and why not make the most of making every day a better one. Not a bad thought.

There are some people who might say, "I am not predictable, I never do the same thing every day." Well for you, please come back tomorrow because I sense there will be few of us who can make this claim. I, for sure, can not. I eat the same thing every morning, raisin bran, check my e-mail at approximately the same time each day, leave for work and catch the same train (yes I do sometimes take different trains---i.e. yesterday's blog) and pretty much am what would be deemed predictable if not down right boring.

But there are certain things I do to make changes in my life. Such as this blog. Every day I approach the screen with absolutely no idea about what I am going to write about. I will typically look for a picture and then start writing. It's actually a lot of fun. I am sure as I hit the number 100 in writing Snap Shot, there will be a block. For those keeping track, we are on number 66.

Today I did something different to start my day. Besides checking my e-mail, my youngest daughter and I sat by the kitchen island and counted coins. "What's this?" I asked. "Daddy it's a penny, a nickel, a dime, etc." We then went back and counted the number of pennies that make up a nickel, dime, etc." I figured she better learn now as she will be laughing at me one day when I ask about pennies, dimes and quarters. She will be saying, "Okay I get it, can I have a $20 so I can go shopping now?" They are so wonderful.

Living life by making changes to the 30% of your life can not be done every day. I do believe there are times when you will fall back into the rut. It just happens. But if you do think about making changes to your average day, it's kind of fun.

The photo above is my brother in law jumping off a post in Lake Tahoe. He is braver than I am. Not only did he do it, but my daughter did as well as my sister in law---I captured it on my Nikon. Hey, it's a different picture than I have taken before, so I guess for that day it would fall into my 30%. There was no way I was going to copy what they were crazy enough to do.

Thanks for stopping by.

All aboard.

This week Warren Buffet's Berkshire Hathaway acquired Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad.

So?

For many of the readers of Snap Shot, a train is a mode of transportation they only see along a highway, overpass, or in rural areas. For me, that's not the case. In our town, we have trains moving through our downtown all day long. At one point, and I am not sure this is a daily figure, we had more than 125 trains traveling through each day. Most are freight trains, but we have our share of commuter trains that take us into nearby suburbs or all the way to the city. If you travel to work by car each day, a commuter train may not be part of your world, but it sure is convenient.

The railroad system purchased by Berkshire Hathaway is part of our train system. They run both commuter and freight trains; I sincerely doubt Warren Buffet will ever be collecting tickets or be a conductor for a day, but you can be sure it will be the subject of Snap Shot if and when he does.

If you have ever taken a commuter train it's a very easy way to get from point A to point B in a fairly quick period of time. If there is a delay, such as an accident or stopped train due to engine failure, it's not. Thankfully this does not happen too often---the longest delay was due to a bank robbery happening in a nearby town. (I was able to get off the train and went over to the town and you guessed it...took pictures of the SWAT team!)

I take the train in daily, sometimes I take different trains because they run fairly consistently all day long (remember 125 trains a day---see above) and I might have missed my regular train. Because many of the same people do the same thing everyday, you have what are called "train friends." They sit in the same seats everyday---don't even think of taking their seats as you will get a look---and each morning they talk about what happened from the time they left their train friends the night before and each evening they discuss what happened in their day.

I have train friends on about 3 different trains; keep in mind if you miss one train, there will be different people who you see on the next train. It's like having friends you only see on the train. What's odd is when you see these people off the train in the city, shopping, or outside the world you know them---the train. Just last weekend, during the Halloween parade, I saw a family who commutes everyday with two of their 3 children. (As the children get older, they go to school and you rarely, if ever, see them except when they are trick or treating for example.) When I saw the family, I of course took pictures---I also introduced my family to their family.

Last night I saw the Mom get off of the train with her two daughters and said, "I have your pictures." Turns out I was in a different car---guess I broke the train friend rules.

The picture above is a pretty good indication of life in our town---trains come, trains go, you wait. Sometimes there will be 2, 3 or even 4 trains that go by in different directions---but we know of a trick should this happen and we really need to get across the tracks. There is an underpass that avoids the trains---I learned about this early.

If you have a chance to take a passenger train, try it---you just never know who you will meet on board. Could be Warren Buffet!

Thanks for stopping by.

Are they on Twitter, MySpace or FaceBook?

It may seem hard to believe, but it has been only 6 years since MySpace was launched; FaceBook and Twitter came shortly there after.

Social media, as it is termed, has just exploded; if the written word and photo are not enough to engage you, you have YouTube to round out ways to let people know what you are doing, what you have found, what you think is cool (or uncool), etc. I remember when a computer was good for writing a letter. I also remember when a cellphone was used to talk to someone. Considering I use FaceBook and Twitter (I still can't grasp why and what Twitter really does) and the cellphone of old is now the digital smart phone of today, I guess I really do like technology. (If I didn't like it there would be no blog and I would be writing letters to people.)

So, what's cool about FaceBook? When I first heard about it, and MySpace, I had no idea "adults" would have any use for it. I used to say, "FaceBook, that's for kids." I retract that statement because one of the largest growth segments in social media are the 35 years+ and older. I can not begin to tell you how many people I have "re-connected" with since joining FaceBook less than a year ago. Some I want to hear from, and well you know the rest of this sentence. It's not that I am running from anyone, but if a person was not a friend or someone I had any interest in hearing from again (nice of me huh?) then why would I suddenly want to be in contact now? Fortunately this is not a large number of people and I sense I am not alone in my thoughts.

What amuses me is the amount of information people put on FaceBook about themselves. Information like, "I am taking a shower, I am eating breakfast, I am going to a baseball game, the baseball game was good, it was bad, etc." I do many of these activities, but I really never thought anyone was interested in whether or not I had my raisin bran this morning, or I took a shower. Okay, maybe they would know if I didn't take a shower even if I didn't tell them.

FaceBook is still great for kids to let other kids know how they rank in their lives, but sometimes too much information is just that---too much information. (Or, TMI for those who don't like to spell it out...LOL.) The computer has taken over our lives, all you have to do is go to any location that is wireless to see people not paying attention except to a little screen.

The photo above was taken when my two youngest daughters were watching a movie on our Mac. They don't know what Twitter is, could care less about MySpace (unless we are invading their space) and as far as FaceBook, they see that as coloring very closely into a coloring book. For right now, I am just fine with that!

Thanks for stopping by.