Why?

"Oh well I believe there are angels among us,
Sent down to us from somewhere up above.
They come to you and me in our darkest hours,
To show us how to live, to teach us how to give
To guide us with the light of love."

A while back, I wrote about Jennifer Mills, a local resident of Glen Ellyn who had passed away at a very young age. Whereas you may not remember that particular blog, I do. Jennifer was “discovered” by a friend of ours who was in from out of town. They went on a nighttime treasure hunt and with a flashlight saw something reflecting off of a limb of a small bush.

The reflection was one of a number of “fairies” that filled the branches---down below was a plaque letting anyone who encountered this bush know that Jennifer Mills was no longer alive. Next to the plaque was an angel with its head down; it was for sure the most moving tribute amongst the many that are located around the lake.

Last weekend, while we were down at the lake, we took my nephew to visit the bush that where Jennifer’s tribute now resides. But something was wrong. I was not able to find it; the fairies were gone---the angel no longer guarded her, it was just another bush---and only the plaque remained. I was sad; I was not sure if Jennifer no longer wanted this tribute, and elected to remove them on her own, or worse yet if someone had come along and taken them as a funny joke.

We live in very interesting times; it seems as if people sometimes, not always, feel they can make changes they think will either be funny or show they are in charge. It happens in our personal and professional lives; what’s unfortunate about their actions is they leave others wanting what had once been there. Whether it’s a secure job to help feed and maintain your family or a reminder of a special person---changes do happen. But when they are malicious and unneeded, they fall into a very different category.

I am looking for a similar statue that was once next to the plaque that honored the loss of a woman taken away too soon. I figure if I place it there, and it is removed by Jennifer, then it was her way of saying, “I don’t want this here.” If it remains, maybe those who took it will think about why it was there in the first place---and leave well enough alone.

The photo above is of the dedication to Jennifer before everything was removed. I a sure that somewhere this fallen angel is wanting to go back to the place where it belongs. Right next to young woman who loved angels.

Thanks for stopping by.

Does anyone have change?

"I'm at a payphone trying to call home
All of my change I spent on you
Where have the times gone, baby it's all wrong
Where are the plans we made for two?"

I read online about the class of 2016 and what they have experienced and what they really know little or nothing about. They have probably never seen an airline ticket, lived without hundreds of networks on their TV, and for sure, they likely have never used a payphone. If they have, it’s because they lost their cell phone.

Roughly 20 years ago I got my first cell phone. In these days of smart phones dominating our everyday lives, back then these were not smart phones, they were portable talking pieces. They were also expensive if you talked too long to friends, family, and everyone in between; I remember a business associate of mine who took our company phone on the road. He used an 800 number thinking that because it was an 800 number there would be no charge. He was wrong---$200-plus wrong. Who was he talking to? His folks.

As I look around the train car I am in, I see iphone, ipads, and computers placed in hands, laps and attached to their ears. It’s the ones who are talking that are the most disturbing. I should have sat in the quiet car; kind of funny that we can no longer be social without disrupting people and taking them away from their electronics is now viewed as offensive. (I have overheard some great conversations---whether they wanted them heard or not.)

The word on the street is that Apple will soon be launching its latest version of the iphone. As people line up the days before they are unveiled, I will be looking on line to see what benefits they have in comparison with the model I have now. The difference between myself and the others who view this as a “must have”…I really don’t care as long as mine has an ability to talk, listen to music, take photos, record notes, go on the internet and provide directions and apps so I can pass the time. I need nothing more than all of these options---well unless it can make breakfast.

The photo above was taken a few years ago. I was really kind of amazed when I saw two payphones that still appeared to be in working order. Of course they were in pretty good shape as they stood waiting for someone to pick up a receiver and place a call;that moment didn’t arrive. Perhaps it’s because a call is now 50 cents---when I was a kid, and yes that was long before we had even a cordless phone, it was a dime. Now I know the reason why kids don’t use payphones, there’s no place to slide a debit card.

Thanks for stopping by.

Out at sea.

"Wait a minute baby...
Stay with me awhile,
Said you'd give me light
But you never told be about the fire.
Drowning, in the sea of love
Where everyone would love to drown,
But now it's gone,
It doesn't matter what for,
When you build your house,
Then call me home."

Music is a very powerful way of expressing yourself without having to say, "this is about me." When a writer puts words on paper, and music around the words,  I am not sure if he or she is writing about them self or if perhaps they can disassociate themselves from the meaning and just create magic. If they can do this, they are not human. At least I know I couldn't do it.

As I have grown up, and I actually have, music has defined my inner emotions. I have felt love, rage, defeat, and every conceivable emotion as I have listened and let my mind drift into wherever it feels like taking me during those few minutes. I am not the only one of course, but what's interesting is how 3 or 4 minutes can change how someone feels and take them to a place where they are safe or perhaps even vulnerable. We let this happen, it's part of the emotions we have stored deep within us. Can you imagine if we didn't have this ability? I can't.

A long time ago, I wrote about the power of the radio in "Snap.Shot." Growing up in St. Louis, I had a white clock radio that I received when I was probably around 8 or 10 years old. When I first received it I was pissed. Why? Because my brother received a tape recorder and that was the coolest thing I had seen; me, on the other hand, I got a damn clock with an AM/FM radio. Oh how I misunderstood the power of radio---I ended up treasuring that gift for many years. I cannot say the same about the tape recorder.

There were nights when I would turn the radio on and listen to stations such as KSLQ, KIRL, and KSHE (if I felt like "hard rock") and would just let myself go wherever my mind had the keys to drive me to. One of my favorite songs, and I still love it today, was "Things We Said Today" by the Beatles. It explored loss, love and the power of the memory of days gone by---I probably listened to that song a million times. More likely on my record player, but sometimes on the radio.

Normally I don't write about the song I have placed on "Snap.Shot," but I will today. This song by Fleetwood Mac just tears at me; the power of the words, combined with the sadness of the sound of the music, always works in taking me to a place I yearn to be. I know, you think I am kidding---but I am not. It's something about "drowning in the sea of love, where everyone would love to drown" that resonates with my years growing up. I was socially and physically awkward and so bad wanted to be in love with someone who would feel the same way back. I have later found that in my later years, but it's the "Wonder Years" that are such powerful memories.

The photo above was taken on the banks of Lake Michigan; we were actually on the Michigan side. I saw this boat, and I saw the fading sun, and knew there would be a moment where they would come together. It was a fleeting moment---in other words, it was like love at times.

Thanks for stopping by.

Summer.

"I see your shadow everywhere
 I feel your smile though you’re not there
A kiss for every star in the sky way above
You’ll always be my one and only summer love."

Writing about summer is a topic I enjoy. Living here in the upper Midwest, we enjoy summer; yes it's been a hot one, and unlike today we have had very little rain, but I know what's coming and I am not happy for its arrival. Winter in Chicago is comparable to the flu---you know when it is more than likely going to arrive and once it does you can't wait for it to leave.

This summer has been at best interesting in our household. We have seen days, and even weeks, where it is pretty desolate, and then other weeks where I am not sure if we can squeeze another body inside. Okay, we can, but when we have as many as 9 people living in our home at one time, the privacy level is not what we would call----umm....private.

Of course, summer is not all about crowding people into a home---for me it's about building the memories that help me through the cold days winter brings. It also is a great springboard for some incredible photographic opportunities. For example, this weekend we are planning to go to Chicago's lake front and watch the Air and Water Show. If you have seen it, you know it's pretty much indescribable. If you have not...let me provide you with a visual. Planes doing stunts that if you were a participant, you would swear that your life was over. I have seen planes soar hundreds and hundreds of feet above the water and dive down to a level just inches from it. I never hear any screaming on behalf of the pilots, perhaps their voices are still floating around at the top from where the plane began its rapid decline.

Also this weekend, and I am not sure how I will get this done, is the Arlington Million horse race. I do enjoy photographing horse races, but I also know that to me a horse is a horse and I really don't know anything more about them such as their name, rider, and the odds of them winning.  But what I do know is...this is not an everyday experience, and if I miss it I have a full year to wait for the next running. What a dilemma.

The photo above is what summer is all about. Freedom, fun, and finally shorts and no coats. Recently at 6 Flags Great America, I was without my trusty Nikon, but had my iphone 4s. (The one with Sari who does not really interact like she does with the stars in the commercials.) I really had no idea how good the camera on the iphone was until I downloaded the photos. They actually are not too bad. Sure the iphone does not take photos as fast, but in the end, I could place it in a plastic bag when we went on the water rides and could capture a summertime memory.

Thanks for stopping by.
 

Shades.

"I can see you,
Your brown skin shinin' in the sun,
You got that hair slicked back and those Wayfarers on, baby
I can tell you my love for you will still be strong
After the boys of summer have gone."

This time of year, as you walk in the city, more than likely you cannot see anyone’s eyes. The sun is bright, high fashion is part of the scene, and sunglasses are an accessory that lets one person look at another without them realizing you are looking at them. You with me?

I recently bought a pair of sunglasses. I really liked them. The key word here is “liked.” I can’t find them and it has been less than a month of ownership; if they were ten-dollar glasses I would be fine with it, but as you might suspect they were slightly more than that. I am hopeful I will be able to find them before winter---don’t bet on it.

This is for sure not the first time I have purchased sunglasses; it’s also not the first time I have lost, sat on, or misplaced a pair either. Being someone who I would call a very impulsive, get-me-out-of-here shopper, I am not one to spend much time in search of the perfect pair. One time, and this is a story that I have repeated a few times, I went to Neiman-Marcus; I rarely, if ever shop at Neiman’s---I guess I was feeling like I was a rich man that fateful day. I walked in, was approached by a man who looked like he shopped at the store where he worked, and I confidently said, “I am looking for sunglasses.”

Based upon his now confused facial expression, I suspected I was speaking a different language than their average customer. He looked at me and said, “Sir, at Neiman-Marcus we don’t sell sunglasses, we sell sunshades.” I took it in, let it absorb, and thought, “What am I doing here?” I then said, “Thank you, but I suspect these are going to be more than I am looking for” and walked out of the store.

I do not recall where I finally ended up buying a pair, but I am thinking it might have been Kohl’s. I am a Kohl’s shopper and am just fine with it.

As the summer is starting to wind down, Labor Day is staring us in the face, I know the sunglasses will find a location and not move for some time. That is if I find or buy a new pair.

The photo above was taken this past weekend; our 2 youngest and their cousin were out and about wearing their new sunglasses purchased at a fair we went to. A deal we could not say no to. Buy one pair, get two free for $20.00. I should have purchased my own set---that way I could have lost, sat on and misplaced all 3 and be ready for next year’s sunglass purchase in the spring.

Thanks for stopping by.

Alone.

"I hear the ticking of the clock, 
I'm lying here the room's pitch dark. 
I wonder where you are tonight,
No answer on the telephone.
And the night goes by so very slow, 
Oh I hope that it won't end though, 
Alone." 

Life is funny; sometimes you can’t wait to have time to yourself and then when you do, you wish you didn’t. In the end, I suspect we all want to have some form of friendship, togetherness, and even a relationship that takes you away from being alone.

Over the past few months, off and on, I have had plenty of time to know the feeling about being alone. My wife and kids did a lot of traveling to see family and friends; the house was quiet, except for me and our dog Cash. Whereas Cash is a friendly dog, and certainly part of our family, he is very interested in sleeping, eating, and going outside as often as he gets the urge. That dog gets the urge frequently.

Now don’t get me wrong, there are benefits of being alone. I watched whatever I wanted to on TV, made whatever I wanted to eat for meals, and if I wanted to go to sleep at 9 o’clock because I was tired, I did. Once I got beyond these benefits I realized that I am a people person and I do need people in my life. 

During the time my family was away I ventured out and took photos. I went out to the Western suburbs where there is farmland and photographed barns and animals. On one shoot, I was able to get up very close to a horse that wanted to either see my trusty Nikon, or was curious why I was invading his space. I took a number of pictures of this horse and the cows he was “protecting.” I shot pictures from above the wire fence, through it and from the ground upward to capture angles of my new friend the horse.

Until.

I suspected the wire fence was there to keep the animals in and what I thought was right. What I didn’t realize is that farmers, based upon experience, know that animals can escape by literally pushing through a fence---whether it’s wood or wire. Unless it has electricity going through it that is; then it tends to keep the animals in and everyone else out. That day I was part of the “everyone else” and learned the hard way.

As I was getting up off the ground, my lens touched one of the wires that held the fence together; the lens as you might suspect is made of metal as well. The shock I received reinforced that keeping a 1000-pound animal confined takes a lot of electricity. I was stunned and thankfully my camera took the jolt like a champ; after I figured out what happened, I checked to make sure it was not fried. Luckily it was okay.

The photo above was taken before the voltage went through my body and the Nikon’s body; I suspect the cows were well aware of what was going to happen should I touch the wires that they know all too well. With their heads down I wonder if they were laughing and waiting for the moment---if so, they are probably still laughing about it.

Thanks for stopping by.

Voice from the past.

“Baby, I'll take care of you, I'll never let you down

No harm will ever come to you as long as I'm around

I am not afraid of what people say or do

The only thing I fear is being here...without you.”

Last weekend I called home to talk with my Dad. It had been a few days since we had spoken and I wanted to check on him to make sure he was not spending too much time outside. It had been over 100 degrees here in Chicago---I can only imagine how warm it had been in St. Louis. I always said, “You know we have cooler summers up north and sure enough, we were a whopping 5 degrees cooler…ahhhh.”

Over the past few months my Dad has had 24-hour care. At first he was not a fan of it, but I suspect he now could not live without it. Whereas I would like him to get to the point where he could once again live independently, I suspect that is wishful thinking on my part.

When he answered the phone he said, “There’s someone here who would like to speak with you.” I had no idea who it could be. When the voice came over the phone wire, part of me knew it was someone familiar and part of me had trouble placing it. Then it hit me. It was Anise, the woman my Mom trusted throughout the last days and weeks of her life while she lie in bed preparing for what would be the inevitable.

It was a little awkward at first; I really didn’t spend much time getting to know her as she tended to my Mom’s needs---but I felt the warmth and compassion that made her so important to our family almost 3 years ago. She was back, and whereas I hate to admit it, I suspect this might be a déjà vu. (I am really hoping I will not be writing about it soon in “Snap.Shot.”)

Trust, and giving yourself to another person who is there to help you, I suspect is difficult; sure we do it when we are born, and yes as parents we do it for our kids, but when the situation changes and it’s you, well…I just hope I can relinquish control. I doubt I will have a choice.

The photo above was the last time I saw my Mom. Right beside her, watching her every move, was a person who months prior would have just been another person I would have just said “hello it’s nice to meet you" to. It was really nice to hear a voice from the past---especially one who elected to come back and help once more.

Thanks for stopping by.

The wink.

“In this complicated world it may sound absurd,

But simple little things are the miracle cures,

Pushed to the limit or standing at the brink,

All she's gotta do is just give me that wink.”

It’s something either you can or cannot do; but if you can, it lets you communicate in a way that’s between you and one person or millions. It’s the wink. If you can’t do it, and you blink both eyes at the same time, well then I would suggest something else as you completely give it all away.

A wink is something you don’t see every day; you use it when you are letting someone know you are either kidding, attracted to them, or just being playful. It’s part of the human personality and it takes only a split second to split the lips of another individual into a smile, nod, or a better state of mind.

When I am photographing portraits, and I know the person who is facing the lens cannot wait to get out of there, I take control. Cross your eyes, jump in the air, now give me a wink---it’s all part of getting them engaged into having their photo taken. After it all starts, and then ends, they usually walk away saying, “Thank you” along with a smile on their face.

They weren’t expecting it, but I was…it works.

I am reasonably sure people winking at one another goes back to the days of Adam and Eve; I am not sure if it had the same meaning—maybe Adam got a branch slammed in his eye by Eve--- but as the wink has evolved, it is the signal that says so much without saying anything at all.

I always love to see when a couple is in love, and a wink travels across the room; you do have to be careful however, because if it is intercepted by the wrong individual, trouble begins. I am sure we have all witnessed it…and I hope for all of us we have been on the receiving end of having had someone do it to us in a warm way. That is, if you can wink without making yourself look like you have a twitch.

The photo above was taken of my youngest daughter and her friend on the first day of school last year; I was not there, but I am sure all my wife said was, “Give me a wink.”

Thanks for stopping by.

Long way from home.

"I'm going home to the place where I belong 

Where your love has always been enough for me
And I'm running from.. you know 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
But these places and these faces are getting old
I'm going home
I'm going home."

Because we have many modes of transportation we have the ability to travel many miles away from where we call home. Sometimes we leave for a short while and other times we move away and start anew. I fall into both camps as I travel more than 30 miles to my job and live 300 miles from where I grew up.

But, there are many people who I have met who still live within the neighborhoods where they were raised. Their kids go to the same schools they did, in some instances they are very actively involved in the community and I know of a few who have businesses just steps away from their homes. I think I might struggle with that, but then again, I don’t know any better. My brother lives less than a mile from the home he grew up in---it works for him and it has really helped as my Dad has needed care.

In my travels, primarily through the Midwest, I have gone to many cities and towns all the while exploring them if I have time; it’s rare that I am concerned for my safety or anything like that, but it’s common, if I am taking photos to be concerned for their privacy. One of my most memorable ventures outside the lights of a big city was when I went into Amish and Mennonite areas in Iowa, Ohio and Pennsylvania. It was in Pennsylvania when I saw, and heard, my first horse and buggy.

At first I was not sure if I had heard it, but as it got closer there was no mistaking what I was about to encounter. Around the turn came a man and his wife---being drawn by a horse and carriage. It stopped me in my tracks and I really wanted to take a picture; I decided it would be best if I tried to “fake it” by staying in my car and taking it with the window down. It worked, but it also was just what I thought it would be---a snapshot. So I drove to another location, I was in a car after all, and caught them coming around the turn. I suspect this had happened before as they waved.

Later in the trip I saw another family, with their buggy to the back of me, traveling down a long road. It was the picture I wanted---in the distance were fluffy clouds, the road was as far as I could see, and it may have been a snapshot, but it turned out to be a photograph. I still have it…somewhere on an external hard drive with 1000’s of other photos.

The photo above was taken a week or so ago. It was lunchtime in downtown Chicago, and I knew a huge storm was coming toward the city; I have wanted to go up on the “ledge” of the former Sears Tower (now known as the Willis Tower) to capture a storm of this magnitude from above. I missed the storm as the elevators that take you up 1300 plus feet were delayed. While standing in line I struck up a conversation with the family in front of me. They were from Northeast Indiana on the way by train, yes train, to Montana---30 hours in a non-sleeper car. Did I ask for a photo? Nope, I didn’t feel comfortable.

Until they stepped out on the ledge with nothing between them and the ground below but a piece of very strong glass.

Thanks for stopping by.

Against the odds.

“And it's run for the roses

As fast as you can

Your fate is delivered

Your moment's at hand

It's the chance of a lifetime

In a lifetime of chance.”

I really do not enjoy going to the horse races for the same reason most others do. I have written about this and even though I have gone 4 times in the last one and a half weeks, I can say I have walked away a winner each time. Well, that is, I haven’t lost any money. It’s probably because the last 3 times I have not actually stepped inside the gates where everyone else watches the races---I have been standing near the turn outside the fence to get a different perspective and angle. Odd? It’s me.

Every time I shoot, I hope I have gotten the shot. The one that will end up on my wall or at least one I will be so proud of I will want to do something with it. I have yet to have the feeling---maybe the next time I go. I think part of my disappointment stems from not knowing the names of the horses or whether or not they run well, won the race, or are just an old nag that is thrown in to give another one competition. This is not the Kentucky Derby—I need to keep that in mind.

Hard to believe I come from a family that enjoyed going to the track. My Mom’s parents spent time and money at the track near Collinsville, IL. I don’t remember a lot about going when I went as a kid---but I do remember there were some less than desirables holding on to the ticket they believed could change their life. It’s changed over the years, at least the track we go to, because if it didn’t no one would be there. There are too many options to lose your hard-earned money just down the road.

This past weekend, as I was getting psyched up to watch the horses run, I watched the videos on YouTube of Secretariat and his Triple Crown win; I watched the Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes. Big mistake if I thought I would be capturing anything close to that.

When I was shooting I was trying to imagine how I would have photographed a race of such magnitude that is part of the Triple Crown. Although it was over 101 degrees outside this past week, I found myself perspiring with anxiousness and fear thinking about it---in addition to what had already started the moment I walked up to the track. What would happen if I got the shot? What would happen if I missed the shot? I don’t know if I will ever have the opportunity, but if so I figure I have some practice.

One thing I do when I shoot is to make sure (or suspect)) I have the best angle possible---knowing myself, I knew I would have self doubt up until the race was in full swing. Then it’s either hit or miss---I know both.

The photo above was taken on Friday; I probably took this photo, without horses, from 20 different angles prior to the actual race. I was not sure if I would capture what I wanted and you only have a few seconds, at best, to get it right. Miss it, and they just run by and it’s off to the next race nearly 30 “hot/sweaty ” minutes later. I didn’t feel this was  the winner, but considering how I felt like  I was going to pass out, it felt like a “place or show” for sure.

Thanks for stopping by.

Roots.

"There's still black marks on that county road, where we drag raced our pick-ups and mustangs

And weathered all the sun and rain
And to this day up on that overpass, even underneath the new paint, you can still see,
"Allie, will you marry me?"

It was almost 10 years ago, when my Dad was about to turn 75 and I ventured back to the town where he was born. It was relatively easy to find, it was 10 miles from Pella, Iowa, and I had a meeting at Pella Window Company. If you know anything about windows, you know they make very good ones.

Because I wanted to make sure I was going to find Monroe, Iowa, I asked for directions after my meeting had ended. I had explained I was going to visit the birthplace of my Dad. The people I was meeting with all thought it was very cool that I was going to do this---no one thought it was any cooler than I did. I wanted to walk in my Dad’s footsteps; okay, he left when he was very young, but I still think it’s something every son or daughter should do if they have the opportunity. Especially if they live in a town far away---this qualified.

The timing was right because this was when the photography bug had ventured into my life and was getting ready to take a huge bite. This was before I had a digital camera and every shot had to count—it was film after all. I traveled back home, knowing I was going to have them processed, when I accidently opened the camera body and exposed the film. True story and one I feel stupid telling. 

Fortunately many of the pictures were not exposed—but I guess many were. I will never really know.

I am really not a small-town guy, however I have always been attracted to them. Maybe it was when we would spend vacations visiting my Dad’s family in Colfax, Iowa, or growing up in an area that was once farmland but had been leveled and made into a housing development. One of my most vivid memories is when we would line up at the bus stop in our subdivision and hear the farmer chopping away. I won’t provide too many details, but let’s just say they weren’t laying any more eggs, and they really do run around with their heads cut off.

Throughout the years I have traveled to some of America’s best-known farming states and I have enjoyed every minute being there. Probably one of my favorites was when I went to New Hampshire and Ohio---they have beautiful farms, fences and farmland. Especially during the fall when the leaves turn colors.

The photo above was taken recently in Western Illinois---I was photographing barns, and as I backed up I looked in the side mirror to make sure I was not going to hit anything such as a cow. I saw the farm in the background and the words, “Objects in mirror are closer than they appear.” Oh how right the mirror turned out to be.

Thanks for stopping by.

At the corner of tradition and memories.

“But you went away,

How dare you?

I miss you.

They say I'll be okay,

But I'm not going to ever get over you.”

If you have ever read the book “The Giving Tree,” then you know how an inanimate object can take on a very significant meaning in your life. It doesn’t have to be a tree, it can be song, a place or anything in between that brings a memory from the back of your mind to the forefront.

For some reason, and I have to believe it’s because I feel so much more alive this time of year, but summer really brings out a different person in me. I feel the moments that made me who I am today come rushing forth---and for some crazy reason they arrive much faster than they do when we are in the dead of winter. Perhaps my brain is too cold, however based upon the heat wave we are experiencing, it should be just as challenged.

Today I watched a video on YouTube that was created by a 12 year-old-boy and 32 year-old-man; they were having a very detailed conversation. The interesting thing, they were one and the same person separated by 20 years. When this man was younger, he videotaped himself, all with the knowledge that one day he would do it once again after he had “grown up.” Whereas it was very creative, and extremely well thought out, the turning point was when he was asked by his younger self if “he was still drawing?” The pain on his face let us all know he was not---he had let one of the most important aspects of his life take a back seat.

It made me think about how we have so many important details in our life that we put aside and often forget to pick back up. Whether it’s a long-lost friend who you have not spoken to in years, a hobby that used to consume your life, or even that lost love that was constantly on your mind, new distractions pull you away, and the memories are often lost until something reminds you of what you have been missing.

There is little doubt this time of the year brings back big-time memories for me; when I was growing up in St. Louis, with summer vacations, spending time with friends, and having no idea what the future would entail---I witnessed life through glasses with a much different strength than I wear today. Now, many decades later, I think about the times I experienced and how they have been etched upon who I am today. I am very fortunate.

This past week something changed; I spent the 4^th of July without my family---it has been decades since this has happened. Everything is fine, they are just out of town visiting family and I am left with the house, the pooch and the heat. (They had worse heat; they were in Mississippi and now Texas visiting family.)

I was not sure what I was going to do on my favorite holiday. Should I go to the local parade and fireworks show as I have for all of these years? I was pulled in the direction of “Yes and No.” Finally I decided to let “Yes” win. However, I did break the tradition of not going to the exact spot where I normally would sit for both activities. What a bold move on my part!

This year I sat at a corner near the cross streets where I live to watch the annual parade pass by. There was a spot just waiting for me along with my trusty Nikon as I walked up just as the parade was scheduled to begin. Next to me were a man and his dog. We struck up a conversation. I learned that on this very spot that I was “invading”---was where he and his family spent 4^th of July watching the parade for decades. I didn’t know if I was invading or allowed to be there? I sat down and travelled back in time with him.

The photo above is of Dave Wentz  (No relation to Pete Wentz) and his dog Sunny. I assume I spelled the dog's name right as Sunny is a she. We talked for some time, he knew many of the local politicians in town, and I was permitted to live the memories he experienced long before I lived in the community. He and his family have since moved, but it was obvious he needed to once again spend time at the corner of “tradition and memories.”

Thanks for stopping by.

190 M.P.H.

“Here he comes, here comes Speed Racer

He's a demon on wheels

He's a demon and he's gonna be chasing after someone

He's gaining on you so you better look alive

He's busy revving up the powerful Mach Five.”

There is little doubt, when I know nothing about something I am going to photograph I start to wonder, “Why am I doing this?” My quick response to myself, “got me?”

A few weeks ago I was invited to an auto race in Milwaukee, WI by a friend of ours. I was unfamiliar with the race---I actually had no idea Milwaukee even had a race track---I of course said, “I would love to go.” By the way, the racetrack is considered relatively small by Indianapolis 500 standards, but you would be hard pressed to say that’s the case once you get there. It's a one-mile oval track that fit a carnival, thousands of people and all of the cars and gear needed to run a race with “Indy cars” whipping around it inside the oval grass area. It was cool, actually hot, and it was noisy.

I was in my glory.

Before we all went up to Milwaukee (it became a multi-family event) I researched auto racing, Indy cars, and even looked up the race track to determine where I would want to be photographing. I learned about as much as I could in a very short time, except where I thought I wanted to be was not where I would end up taking pictures.

Here's why.

We arrived on Friday afternoon for the Saturday race; they were doing trial runs and as I stood in the pit (yes I was right there by the track) and I knew I had gauged it all wrong. The cars were going more than 150 MPH and even though my trusty Nikon shoots 7 pictures a second, it was no match for what I was experiencing. (I would push the shutter, click, click, click, etc. and saw, nothing, nothing, nothing, the back tire of a car, and nothing, nothing, nothing.) These would be awesome photos if you wanted to shoot the wall that surrounded the course--woo who.

I figured the pits were out of the question and went to one of the turns where the cars come racing down the track. These cars go fast and I figured I needed to make sure I could see them before they zoomed by; this gave me about a whopping 2-3 seconds to focus and shoot.

To make it more challenging, I wanted the photos to be clear and sharp---not a complete blur as they sped by. I did it, but the problem was, I was shooting at such a high shutter speed that it now looked like the cars were standing still on the track; you could actually read the lettering on the tires. 

I was now really concerned as I had made promises to myself and my friend that I would deliver cool pictures.

On Saturday I ventured over to the same spot where I stood the day before; I was determined to get photos of speeding machines with tires and background in a blur. The cars, however, had to be clear; this was my personal challenge and I knew I was screwed at that point. I had no idea what to do, so I did the unthinkable “guy” move---I asked another photographer for help.  This is tech talk for, “I have no idea what I am doing and how I am going to do this?”

He was really nice about it and helped me out.  I said, “Why aren’t you wearing earplugs?” as the noise level was unbearable. He screamed and said, “I forgot them.” It was payback time---I had an extra pair with me. That was the last I saw of him as I took to shooting ridiculously fast cars.

The photo above was taken at the turn as cars sped by; I was there to take photos of Graham Rahal for our friend who knows the family quite well. (Some of the Rahal family live in our community---I guess you could call this my 15 minutes of fame from afar.)

On the 4^th of July, a few weeks after the race, I was at our same friend’s home and met Mr and Mrs. Rahal Sr. (The parents and grandparents of these racing legends); I was told they liked my photos--I was honored---as I had dropped a few off photos as a way of saying "thank you" to my friend for including us a very fun weekend. Mrs. Rahal asked, “If I took racing photos often?” I said, “No but it was a lot of fun and would love to one day do it again.” I then went on to boldly say how I would one day like to take photos prior to a race while their grandson is alone and mentally preparing to go 200-plus MPH. Her response, “I can do that for you.” More to follow---maybe.

Thanks for stopping by.

Star. Power.

“'Cause when you're a celebrity

It's adios reality

You can act just like a fool

People think you're cool

Just 'cause you're on TV

I can throw a major fit

When my latte isn't just how I like it

When they say I've gone insane

I'll blame it on the fame

And the pressures that go with

Being a celebrity.”

We live in a society where being famous places you above the crowd of individuals who are pretty much in the sea of average folks. It doesn’t matter who they are, you know they have done something different---such as star in a motion picture--and suddenly they are elevated to a different status. Often times their egos travel upward too.

However, not always.

Last night, when I got home, I was informed we were going to our local library for an ice cream social and the chance to meet someone famous. I thought, “Famous at our local library? Who could it be?” A writer, a local politician, or someone who I would have no idea or interest in meeting? I am happy to report---I was wrong.

Upon arriving at the library, the first thing I noticed was a crowd of people where I have never seen a crowd before. I thought, “Wow, maybe I am mistaken and yes, Salena Gomez was actually here in Glen Ellyn.” My kids thought for sure it was going to be her and Justin Bieber mingling with the kids who were there to meet a “celebrity.” Thankfully they were elsewhere and not in Glen Ellyn, IL.

About 20 minutes after arriving, with paint on their faces and push-up pops in their hands, my daughters and I ventured up a small hill to see a young girl signing movie posters. Yes, she was an actress (actually the lead) in a movie that is scheduled for release on June 29^th in select cities around the country and on-demand June 15^th--- her name is Rylie Behr.  It’s called “I Heart Shakey.”(Heart as in a heart shape.)

What impressed me about Rylie was her smile and eagerness to listen to kids who immediately felt like they were amongst royalty. She is 12 years old, looks younger, but has the charisma and personality of someone well beyond her years.. (If you are reading this Rylie, you have plenty of time to grow up—just take your time and enjoy the ride.)

I spoke with both the producer and Rylie’s Mom and learned she was discovered in a mall; you might be thinking, “Which one in Los Angeles, New York or Chicago?” How about the mall in Des Moines, Iowa. Been there? I have been to Iowa no less than 100 times; my Dad was born in a town about 40 miles from Des Moines.

What I liked about Rylie most---she seemed to understand she is very fortunate to be in this position. She is grounded…not the grounding from being bad...but “grounded” in a way that when she goes back to school, she will be a normal kid again. Pretty cool.

In a previous career I worked in entertainment marketing and the stories told about celebrities ranged from, “You have got to be kidding to you can’t be serious.” I am sorry to say, they were not kidding and they were serious.

My favorite story—it’s true---involved a Disney teen star; her contract was run through a large talent agency and her father was her manager. That can be the worst thing to happen to a child, their parents  go from novices to experts when they hear one word---“income.” This individual was willing to “settle” for $500,000 to perform a 1-day shoot. In other words, she was making more money than the average American makes in 15 years all in one day. Not bad for a 15 year old, right?

Her Dad thought she was worth more. She is after all…his daughter. He said, “Last night I re-thought the contract and I think she is really worth $750,000.” She got it.

So how is she doing? Let’s just say you may have read about her and her star has tarnished greatly.

Unless I am mistaken, I suspect Rylie will not end up in the same situation; her Mom is with her as she travels, she is being well taken care of in a crazy world that tends to not take care of you. She just seems different---I think it’s her Iowa roots and having someone who is showing her the way

The photo above was taken with my daughter Sophie. My other daughter was taking pictures using a film camera, however when it came time for Sophie’s turn, the film had been used up. That did not set well with a 7-year old. So, out came the iphone, Rylie stepped out from behind her table, put her arm around Sophie, smiled and the rest as they say will be Sophie’s story of the time she met a movie star.

Thanks for stopping by.

Determined.

“Well, you’re not suppose
 to say the word “cancer” 
in a song.

And tellin’ folks that Jesus is the answer,


Can rub ‘em wrong.


It ain’t hip to sing about


Tractors, trucks, little towns or mama,

Yeah, that might be true.


But this is country music,


And we do.”

When it comes to cancer, there really is very little that’s positive to write about---except for those who are determined to do something about it. I really admire those who take a stand and creatively look for solutions to get the message out. This past weekend was a perfect example of how a cause can bring out the best in people.

We live on a fairly long street; divided by cross streets, they separate one “small” neighborhood from another. 

Every summer, once the snow goes and cold weather takes a long needed break, there will be individual block parties where neighbors, who have been virtually in hibernation since fall, come out of the woodwork to re-connect.

We comment about how the kids have grown, what has happened in their lives and neighborhood issues that make the time fly by. Then we go home and promise to get together before fall. I suspect you know what happens from that point on.

This past Sunday, we had one “small neighborhood” reach over into another and invite us to their block party; there is nothing snooty about not having one block join another, it just sort of happens that way.

But something happened that changed the dynamic of the street on Sunday; lined with large trees, the street turned into a sea of pink. Pink ribbons wrapped around trees, pink flowers placed in flower pots, and pink luminaries lighting the way creating a magical path with the objective of curing cancer. If you have read “Snap. Shot.” for any period of time, you know cancer (I will not capitalize this horrific disease) is something that’s near and dear to me. It was three years ago at this time when I watched my Mom—from afar---fight for her life as she battled brain cancer. She lost.

I really didn’t know much about what was going on when I saw the ribbons being wrapped around the trees. It was later that evening I learned one of our neighbors was very actively involve in a fight against breast cancer. She does not have it, it was in honor of her mother who has battled the disease and now has seen this disease spread to her pancreas.

What I learned was really impressive about Lynda’s (my neighbor down the street) determination; along with friends she organized a group called---you ready for this?

“ The Titsy Chicks.”

Lynda and her group sold shirts and other items at the block party---my youngest wanted a t-shirt and I was very proud she was wearing it yesterday. Adults pay attention to kids outfits, I am hoping Sophie (my daughter) will be a pro-active billboard spreading the word about the need to fight.

The photo above was taken at the block party; Lynda had been taking photos with her point and shoot camera and it was not in the mood to cooperate. My wife Susan was talking with her and walked home to get the trusty Nikon. She not only captured the essence of the luminaries, but hopefully through “Snap. Shot.” visually spread the word of the fight that everyone needs to be involved in until “cancer” is just an astrological sign and a disease we have conquered.

Thanks for stopping by.