Before people, before animals, before life as we know it, Chairs were the primary species of this great planet. They lived open and free. There weren't any need for possessions or fuel for energy. They just existed, and they were happy with their lives, until...

One Chair stepped out and proclaimed their craving of purpose. It wanted to have a meaning in its life rather than the typical day to day roaming about without a care in the world. As much as the other Chairs tried to keep it quiet, the more pronounced the Chair became. Soon, there were other followers, buying into the idea of purpose. Those that were interested in a change were curious of exactly what purpose they could have. How could their lives have meaning and purpose.

The conflict that began, between the Chairs, began small, but escalated over years. As their feud continued, people began populating the planet. The Chairs that wanted meaning in their lives began fulfilling the purpose of aiding humans with a resting place; allowing the humans to pin them down while they relaxed. The opposing Chairs saw this as an insult. The constant argument between the two factions of Chairs quickly led to the Chair Wars. 

The Chair Wars ended almost as quickly as they began, leaving many so battered and broken that their only purpose was to be discarded at nearby Chair cemeteries, usually marked by a tall standing structure or a mound of dirt. The purposefully-driven Chairs won the war, and today, many humans use them daily. Most of the fallen Chairs have broken away and decayed into new earth, but there are a few, like this one pictured above, that remain as a testament to a war that really didn't serve any purpose. It was kind of ironic, in the end. :)

Seriously, this photo shows the garbage that was left behind by a business that failed. Most everything was stuffed into this old barn, save a few items used by those that have found it. The barn is structurally failing now, and it won't be long before it falls and becomes one huge pile of of forgotten items that once, long ago, had a purpose. 

I hope you enjoyed the trip through my imagination, sparked by this one picture.

Have a great day!

Photography has grown to be a huge part of everything I do. It's no longer a hobby that I set some time aside for each day. Instead, I carry my camera from location to location and attempt to capture some part of the event I am participating in. Through these pictures, I am taken back to these places. Every element that was experienced from sight to sound to smells to feelings are remembered in such a vivid manner that I imagine I am there, right now, in that place. Like a song can take a person back to a time in their youth, triggering memories long forgotten only to realize that the block was temporary, these photos will always take me back. 

Today, the day I took this photo, I was sitting in a tree stand alongside a bean field, waiting for an elusive whitetail deer to make a presence. Whether it was nearby or far away, I am thankful for any encounter I can witness. The beans are a great lure, no matter the frustration of the farmer that put them there. On this particular day, in October of 2014, I did not see any deer, but I did get to enjoy the sounds, the weather, the smells of this evening,...and yes, this delightful sight. Because I took this one picture that night, my memory is triggered, and I am there, right now, able to explain the entire setting to you.

Have a great day!!

     Want to see something neat? Have you already seen it? This carousel sits on the edge of the Detroit River on a walkway that borders it: The Detroit River Walk. I've spoken of the circumstances of why I was there before, but to reiterate,... I was provided an opportunity to hang out with a couple of professional photographers for a workshop that featured the exploration of some really cool places in Detroit Michigan. The professional photographers are Olympus Trailblazers Jamie MacDonald and Mike Boening. Mike is from the Detroit area, so he knew some really cool places to hang out and get some awesome photo opportunities and work on fine tuning the use of our cameras.

     The part of the river walk we were in housed some really great pieces to photograph. Not only was there the river, which was covered in fog, but there were man-made water features, a big top tent that covered an eating area, and people fishing from the dock. Occasionally runners would come through, and they made great photos as well. Included in the features of the river walk was this carousel. 

     The carousel was interesting to me because of the unique riding pieces attached to it. They seemed mystical, and nearly magical. A frog, a mermaid, a bird, etc.; all something to look at and capture for everyone to enjoy. Along the edge of the carousel was one of the water features. A crystal clear pool of water and a step for the water to fall down. I wasn't quite able to capture the waterfall to my liking, but the reflection of the carousel across the pool made the opportunity achievable. The cool fog that was beginning to extend from the water to the river walk completed the scene. 

     A great fog, an awesome carousel, and a reflecting pond made this photo something I will reflect on for years. Add that to the great photographers I got to spend the day with, and that makes for an even greater experience in the city of Detroit, Michigan. Thank you.

     This image is intriguing to me. I actually edited the color version to this black and white, high contrast photo. The Jackson Michigan Hot Air Jubilee is still a recent topic for me as many photos were taken and memories were made. From this picture, I cannot tell which balloon it was, but to be honest, they all rocked out the event and put on a splendid show for everyone in attendance. 

     The photo was captured as the sun was setting and the pilots were preparing for the night glow. This is when all of the balloons are inflated to a standing position. Then, as influenced by a DJ or by music, the pilots blast bright flames into the balloon to illuminate everything through its envelopes. Imagine 30 balloons sitting in an open field in the dark, and as the music plays, they shoot yellowish flames into the balloon to the beat. It's quite a spectacle to behold, and really makes it a lot of fun for everyone watching. 

     Each balloon is anchored to a vehicle just in case a gust of wind or an itchy trigger finger on the propane blaster wants to take the balloon in a direction that wasn't intended. This balloon was anchored to a large pickup truck. The seams on the balloon reflected off the windshield and even onto the hood of the vehicle. The lines were what caught my attention as I stared at them, trying to match them up to the seam of the balloon. Off to the left of this balloon is another balloon that is being inflated. I don't know, but this picture stuck out at me, and has me staring at it still.

     By the way, I was at this event with my son, and had handed him one of my cameras to photograph anything that was interesting to him. I want to encourage him to do what he wants with his life, but while we are hanging out, I really want to make memories with him. This was an impressive photo captured by the camera I had let him use, and therefore, he has caught an image that is keeping my attention thoroughly. This photo was taken by David IV while spending time with me at the 2015 Jackson Michigan Hot Air Jubilee.

The Jackson Michigan Hot Air Jubilee is an event that is a must for the community. Laid-back, interactive, and entertaining events are going on all weekend long during this event, typically held in July. The weather is usually warm and the storms are unpredictable. It's always a 50% chance that the balloons will get to fly, but the other things going on around the event can make those times of non-flight interesting. From the nearby carnival to music and car shows, there is always something to do throughout the entire weekend. 

     On July 9, 2015, I was blessed to be a part of the media event which occurs about a week and a half before the actual event. It really holds the attention of those of us that have the ability to reach out to the population in and around Jackson. On that evening, I was paired up with a pilot, Tyler Jaques, of the Post (TM) team. I was able to tumble into a basket and fly for nearly 50 minutes over the southeast part of Jackson County. The flight was calm, relaxing and full of photographic opportunities. Mostly, because of the excellent pilot at the burst and vent controls.

     The big weekend of the event was July 17-19, 2015, and boy, was I looking forward to it. Although I wouldn't be flying during the event, nothing could have kept me from attending it. My first contact would be the Post (TM) balloon due to the fact that Tyler provided me with an experience I wouldn't ever forget. This picture (above) was taken on the launch field as the balloon was being inflated. Many hands are helping with this job, as it seems to go up effortlessly. Everyone knows their position, and they all do their jobs well. 

     I especially like the dual saw blades at the top. I'm not sure why, exactly, but it captures my attention every time. This shot was taken with the camera sitting on the tipped over basket as it was receiving gusts of air from a nearby fan. It's just one of those shots that can't typically be taken from someone along the outside of the launch field, and I hope this allows those that are interested to get a better view of what the pilots and crew get to see every time it inflates. Sometimes, those details are lost in the ritual of ballooning. I still find every aspect of the possibility of flight on a balloon exciting.

The Experience in FullThe 2015 Hot Air Jubilee Media Event in Jackson Michigan

     It's that time again!! A time of wonder! A time of color! A time of loud bursts of heat and flame blasting into an envelope (aka balloon). It's a distinct sound that turns heads as it sails over their yards. People are waving from this tiny basket that is fastened to the bottom of it. It moves slowly and is visible to everyone on the ground. It travels on a breeze and is controlled by vents and propane. The Hot Air Jubilee is back with new and exciting games and balloons. Because this is about the upcoming event, and my recent experience, this update may be a bit long. I hope you like to read, and can sense the excitement and emotions I felt.

     On Thursday, July 9, 2015, the Hot Air Jubilee hosted a cookout and created opportunities to unite the local media with the pilots, as well as allow productive interviews of the pilots and officials. I was representing Jacksonopolis tonight. After arriving, I checked in and signed a waiver in case an opportunity to fly were to become available. As I learned that night, one member of each of the medias, present, would be matched up with a participating pilot to get the opportunity of a lifetime: A balloon flight. I was not the only representative of Jacksonopolis that evening, so my chances were based on how many pilots actually participated for the event. If there were more pilots than media reps, others would be allowed to fly as well. 

     As it turned out, I was paired up with a pilot at the last minute. The pilot that I was introduced to was Tyler Jaques. He pilots the Post Cereals balloon. A yellow, white and dark red envelope with a huge POST logo in the middle. The other Post Cereals balloon in the event is the one shaped like Sugar Bear. That balloon is piloted by Tyler's dad, David Jaques. Tyler is a young man with lots of experience and a great family bond to the ballooning community. Upon first impression, I knew I would trust him with this trip into the sky. I asked him how long he had been a pilot. His answer was, "Three weeks." I must say that that answer took me off-guard, and he let that sink in before changing his answer to the correct one: 13 years, although he'd been in training with his dad long before actually pursuing a pilot license. Any emotions of fear were erased.

     Once the balloon was filled, heated, and standing up, I had to sling the cameras over one shoulder and maneuver my way into the basket. I heard someone behind me say that there isn't a graceful way of getting in and boy! was she right. If it hadn't been for people pushing my feet over, I would have toppled into the basket rather than climbed in. Once in though, I asked where I should stand, and stayed in that spot. Tyler kept telling his mom to get into the basket as she adamantly refused. She had told me that she had only been in a balloon three times despite her husband and son being pilots. As it turned out, Mo Piper (The Hot Air Jubilee Balloonmeister) walked by. It didn't take too much coercion to get her to climb into the balloon for the flight. Within a few minutes, the balloon crew would taxi us out of the way of the other still-inflating balloons, and we would be on our way.

     It's a little daunting to begin the ascent, but I would remind myself to trust the pilot and know that my friend was there too. I started looking around and waving to people on the ground, occasionally shouting to them. As we reached a height that should have made me feel very uncomfortable, the breeze started to carry us in a southeast direction. It was a slow drift, and one that I took in immensely. Rivers that cut their way through the trees and semi-hidden roadways were revealed in patterns that became stunning works of art. Watching the little people on the ground was intriguing, and the distant clouds that were finally leaving the Jackson area appeared as breath-taking mountains. A familiar boat storage facility appeared ahead with a small lake right behind it. Sharp Lake to be exact. But Sharp Lake began to appear larger as we got closer. It also became closer as I noticed we were descending. 

     We were drifting over a swamp of cattails, where the water could be seen at their base. A small wooden dock was in their midst, and despite how I felt about being that close to the ground as the bottom of the basket grazed the tops of the cattails, we descended lower. A nearby fisherman, in a kayak, paddled away from the direction were were floating and the stopped and watched as our basket touched the top of the water. I lifted my feet and watched, in awe, as Tyler Jaques sailed that balloon gently over the lake, skimming the basket on the surface of the water, leaving a small wake for about 10 to 12 feet in distance. The basket never went more than three inches into the water, when there was a sudden burst from the burners, and we began to ascend again. The part of the lake we had just skimmed was lined with trees, and it took long bursts to clear them. Mo was able to grab a handful of leaves from the top of the trees as we exited the lake area. Looking back, I watched other balloon pilots going for the splash and dash with their baskets. What a site it was!

     The sun was in its full brilliance! There were about a half dozen balloons behind us as well as a couple in front of us, and a few more over us. The light coming through the sides of the balloons illuminated them to their fullest potential of color. And the lake, now becoming an item of the past, mirrored everything around us, like an alternate universe, on the flip side of the land below. The scene really showed a monumental experience and the result was completely artful, even poetic. What a great night spent with the community, our friends, and now, our new friends. 

     I'd like to thank Jacksonopolis, Travis Stevens, Mo Dedrick, and the 2015 Hot Air Jubilee of Jackson Michigan for the opportunity to enjoy this great experience. I would also like to extend a special thank you to Tyler Jaques and his awesome balloon crew and family for participating in the event and making sure I didn't die (or drown), all-the-while making this experience one that I will remember forever. Thank you.

     This photo reminds me of a trip that I was about to go on. I was sitting in a carpool lot watching traffic for by while waiting for my ride. I was actually a bit early, so I got out to check my gear. I wanted to make sure I was going to have the correct lenses for the upcoming photowalk. While I was going through my bag, I began to notice the birds in the woods that stood between the parking lot I stood in and the off ramp to the nearby highway.

     I rifled through my bag and pulled out my camera and the zoom lens. I didn't want to bother with collapsing the tripod down when the car arrived, so I just decided to shoot freehand. The birds were fast when they took of from their well-hidden spots. Cardinals and Bluejays were flying around singing throughout the wooded area. Just as I would get a fix on one, it would fly to another tree. They weren't sitting still long enough to get a solid focus before they would flutter to another tree. It was becoming frustrating, so I started looking around at other things to shoot. These seed pods were far enough away to fit in the frame without zooming (about 20 yards). The wind was barely a breeze, but the passing traffic kept them lively enough.

     These were last year's pods that hadn't gone down under the weight of the winter's snow. I learned that these are called Dipsacus Sylvestris. Oh yeah! I knew that!! I admire Dipsacus Sylvestris as often as I can, and I watch that crazy Sylvestris try so hard to eat the Tweety Bird! Oh, wait! Sorry! Got confused there for a minute. Dipsacus Sylvestris is also known as Fuller's Teasel or Wild Teasel. These particular seed pods can be found in almost every grassy field around, but this set of three were alongside a carpool parking lot near I-94 while I waited for Travis Stevens to pick me up. Our final destination was Comerica Park, in Detroit, MI. Here, we were to go on a photographic adventure tour that covered almost every area of the stadium, but that's a story for another update. For now, I marvel at nature and the little things that make everything work. Thank you. 

Worth ExploringA small shed-like structure

     Urban exploration is a fun way to capture the decay of abandonment, as well as imagine what a place or scene used to be when people were in or around it all the time. What era was it when this place was enjoyed, worked in, productive, and full of life. I have traveled to Detroit many times to go through old factories, churches, and schools. What were those places like when people used to worship in them, build cars in them, or educate young lives in them? What color were the walls or how bright were the lights in these dark, desolate areas?

     There are days, after work, where I like to drive through the countryside looking for something inspirational. I prefer to find roads that are unknown to me, but having traveled much of Jackson County, Michigan now, there aren't too many that I haven't driven on anymore. The season is winter and the year is 2014 in this picture. I was driving down a road I had been down many times. Usually, there are leaves on the trees and the grass is green and lush. But today, it's a barren landscape of cold and snow and ice and wind. I was drawn to this road by the large amount of turkey buzzards that seemed to be circling the area. I found an old silo with two or three of them on it, and photographed them for a short time. Did I mention that it was cold outside?

     After warming back up in the car, I continued driving in the direction I was pointed. Besides wildlife and a few other things that interested me, I decided to turn north on the next road and head on home. Prior to that happening, I passed a wooded lot with the shadow of a barn and a shed on the property. It appeared vacant, as the snow was about a foot deep with no footprints or evidence of vehicular use. I was traveling at the speed limit, so I had to find a driveway to turn around in. When I arrived at the lot I had seen, I turned on the emergency flashers, and pulled off the road as much as I dared, so as to not get stuck there. I checked the edge of the property to ensure that there wasn't any foot traffic, and then decided to approach the shed.

     The shed was about 60 yards away from the road and surrounded by briers, so it was quite the workout to get there, knowing it would be as difficult to get back to the car if I had to make a run for it. The shed had multiple old oil signs attached to its exterior, and the windows were still in tact, despite the years of dust that was attached to them. The door was on the left side, and upon first site it was definitely abandoned. The door was locked with a padlock, but the window was broken, allowing me to see in fairly well. 

     I didn't want to be there for too long, so I looked around through the window aand then took a few photos so as to look into it farther at a later time. this is one of those photos. The place was trashed. An overturned desk with slots for items pertaining to the business and it's contents spilling out. A work bench with an rusted grinder, and a lot of stuff on the floor. This is a place I would like to return to someday and perhaps explore the barn nearby. I left after about 10 minutes of looking around, but it left me with the same thoughts of wonder: Was this a place where cars were repaired or maintained? What were the people like when customers arrived? Was there a cable that "dinged" when a car pulled up? Was it a full-service station? Questions and questions that will most-likely remain unanswered. 

     This photo is difficult to describe. Let's start with the history of it: I was invited to join in on a photo opportunity in Detroit, Michigan, accompanying two inspiring, professional photographers as they work with fellow Olympus camera owners to get everything they are looking for in their photography to come out in their work. This was definitely something that was interesting to me, as they add suggestions of perspective as well as in the settings of the camera. The two photographers are Olympus Trailblazers, Jamie MacDonald and Mike Boening. 

     Our journey had us start at the Detroit Riverwalk, near Belle Isle. It was hopeful that would could get a grand sunrise photo op. Unfortunately, as nature is predictable from a distance, there was a layer of low clouds that prevented seeing to far. When we arrived, we could see the other side of the river (Canada), but that was a bout the extent of the view. The fog continued to roll in, and eventually obscured our sight to only 20-30 feet over the water. Canada was no longer visible and although we heard the horns on a freight ship, we couldn't see it, no matter how hard we strained. We left the Riverwalk, and continued to other areas in Detroit, throughout the day.

     During the workshop, we entered the Eastern Market of Detroit. This place was a street photographers dream stop. Everything from graffiti on the walls to shops and street vendors to crowds of people from every walk of life. There was so much opportunity to get a picture with every step in the walk. We photographed walls, cars, items for sale, and people. Mike suggested using the "Multiple Exposure" setting on the camera to get some really interesting results. Personally, I hadn't ever used it. Mike demonstrated on a dual arched entryway to one of the markets, taking a shot of it and the turning the camera upside down and taking another shot. The result was definitely something to look at, to try to understand. Had I not seen him do it, I wouldn't know what I was looking at, let alone how he did it all in camera.

     We all wandered around the market, sometimes running into each other and then separating again later. I found myself alone when I came across this bike. I decided to attempt a shot on the multiple exposure setting as suggested earlier. The first shot was the darker portion of the picture: A bike propped up against a utility pole and a truck in the background. I composed the second shot by lowering my lens and moving away from the scene a few inches. This was the result, and I was really happy with it. It encourages someone, and even me, to look at it closer; to see the value in the work put into the composed piece. This shot really stuck with me, and I will definitely be doing more multiple exposure shots in the future.

     A special thanks to Olympus Trailblazer Jamie MacDonald for inviting me along for the workshop, and to Olympus Trailblazer Mike Boening for the inspiration to try something new on my camera.

     This photo is interesting to me on a couple of levels. I absolutely love landscape photography. There is so much to see in the open world. Sunsets and sunrises really amaze me although they are an everyday occurrence. Getting in the right location to maximize the view is important to me, and maybe having a few clouds in the shot to capture the glow would optimize the opportunity, especially right after the sun exits the scene. 

     Here we are, it's winter in Michigan. It's about five degrees outside, and in the days prior, there was a thin coating of ice that had fallen over the area. Everywhere you looked, it looked like Jackson had been coated in smooth plastic.  The thickness of the ice was comparable to the glass that comes with a picture frame. When it was broken, it was just as sharp. There wouldn't have been any snow angels found. I knew this wouldn't last too much longer, as I was waiting for the right time to get out and photograph this interesting phenomenon. I waited as long as I could, and decided to make a trip out to the Cascades Hill area on a beautiful evening. No one had walked across this field and the plastic-like coating was in tact. It appeared as though the sun was setting on a lake. 

     As the sun set, the reflection stretched across the sheen of ice. If I didn't know this area, I would have sworn that there was a body of water under this ice. This ice was covering about twelve inches of powdery snow. Under the snow was a field of grass waiting for its season to to be a lush green attraction to young soccer players in the Jackson area. We are looking at an open field at a park, neighbored closely by a school. The sunset here is unique in that this reflective properties are seldom seen here. This is truly a remarkable opportunity, and one that won't be seen again (for at least a few seasons.) Thank you.

Innocence and RemembranceA young child moves into the picture and into the open to get a better view of the fireworks.

     This photo is very recent, having been taken on July 4, 2015 at around 10:30 PM. This incited a powerful emotion. It is powerful in that it can lead to opportunities in this young child's curiosity. As beautiful as the fireworks are, these explosions, in the sky, are all there for us to remember how America became free. It is to remember our ancestor's brave retaliation to gain independence from a country that wanted control. 

     Imagine being a child, this young, and walking out onto your front porch or into your yard to see men fighting and dying. Imagine seeing massive explosions in the distance that rivaled this day of celebration, knowing that someone just got hurt somewhere. The colorful displays back then would be those that would cause fright rather than elation. Those men fought and died so that we could enjoy our nights of celebration and our freedom from tyranny. Our brave soldiers continue that fight, and with these celebrations, we keep them in our minds, our hearts, and especially our prayers.

     This child was seated with his family behind me, behind the fence. I could see why he would like to be in a position that was unobstructed by a mesh of wire. He stood on home plate, of this ball diamond, completely engulfed in the fireworks. He stood really still for about 30 seconds. His gaze was upward the entire time. Once this had ended, he turned and beckoned his dad to come join him. A few shots later, I had a photo of him and his dad sitting side-by-side on home plate. What a wow moment! No one else noticed him as they were all caught up in the celebration. 

     I hope you enjoyed your parties and celebrations this past Independence Day. Thank you for stopping by, and may God continue to bless our America.

MNSSHP Fireworks1Fireworks during the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at WDW

     Ask anyone I know where my family vacations. I dare you! I would bet that they all know that we are avid Walt Disney World guests. At one point, I was a guest blogger for WDW or Bust. It's no longer blogging, but it was a lot of information in a small piece of space on the internet. My family has a countdown timer on the mantle that changes nearly every day. It gets reset almost as soon as we arrive home from our vacation, and begins counting down to the next time we are going. 

     There is so much to do, and our return trips year-after-year allow us to re-experience what we liked the years before, as well as try new things. Character meals, getting into the parks early, exclusive tours, new rides, renovated rides, and the whole aura that everything is engulfed in leaves us feeling completely at home. I started going in 2007, and this will be my ninth trip to the World. I believe this will be my wife's 28th trip and my son's fourth trip. Yep, we love coming back here, and wish we could do it more.

     I have spoken about it in a previous blog update, but in 2007, I owned (still have it) a Sony Mavica CD Camera. Taking photos of fireworks was a bit of a joke. Most of them were blurry, and the one or two that turned out okay had a clear view of the castle while being washed out with the overly bright lights of the fireworks. In 2013, I borrowed a new camera, an Olympus PEN E-PM2. It was a tiny little thing and I had a couple of lenses to play around with. One was a wide angle lens, one was a prime body cap lens, and the other was a zoom lens I rented. My fireworks photos, that year, were just as undesirable as the ones I took with the Sony. But I knew the capability was there. I just had to learn how to harness that power; so I set out to practicing on the fireworks in my home town the next year.

     I learned a lot in one summer, and after receiving a new camera (Thank you Jennifer Colucci and Olympus), and buying a tripod, I set off to WDW in 2014. I set up in the middle of Main Street, and began firing away in LiveTime.

     Now that the basis for the photo is taken care of, I will continue on this particular photo. This is one of the scenes from the beginning of the show. Disney, in my opinion, has the best fireworks display anywhere that I have seen. This display is set off at the end of the night, during the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. In late September through October 31st, Disney throws a hard ticket only event at the Magic Kingdom which allows a certain number of guests to attend each night. The parks are hardly crowded, and a few rides remain in operation throughout the evening. If there was ever a time to ride with short lines, it was during this event. During the evening, Disney characters come out in their Halloween costumes and dance the night away at pin-pointed areas. In other areas, guests can "trick-or-treat" for lots of treats. The festivities are a lot of fun for all ages.

    About two hours prior to the end of the party, the roads are blocked off. The cast members are making a clear way for the oncoming parade which features the headless horseman at the front. Then comes a parade that can only do well to be conducted in the dark. Lights decorate every float and cast member involved. When the last cast member passes in the parade, it's time to make your move to where you want to be for the last act of the night: The MNSSHP Fireworks Display, where the villains control the show. The castle is lit up in dark and menacing colors as the pathway lights are dimmed. The first set of explosions are impressive and echo all around the park. The picture above is one of the opening sets as the display begins.

     When I look at this picture, memories fill my mind, and I can actually place myself in the very position I stood. I can experience the show through imagination with the support of this shot. When I look at this picture, I see a word that best describes the entire night: I see the word "WOW."

     There has been an excessive amount of rain this year, not only in Michigan, but still more than I want during a summer. There are counties around our state that are under water more than I expected. Driveways are impassable unless you own a high clearance vehicle, yards are not being mowed and fields with soy bean and corn seedlings are visible only with polarized glasses. Ruined crops and deteriorating roads are a common subject right now. This photo was captured before any of this happened, when Spring was new and the snow had finally melted. The greenery is making more of a presence and it is welcomed.

     Waiting for the storm season to approach was still an anticipated event, but these gentle showers that leave these water beads are a good appetizer. Getting one up close is fun, as it turns the world upside down. I noticed this leaf as I was leaving to take my son to school. Not left with a lot of time, I loaded into the car and left. After dropping him off, I returned home with about 15 minutes left before I would have to leave again. 

     I used the smallest camera in my bag with the best magnification. My point and shoot really brought out the tiny pearls with all of the greenery trapped within them. They sure decorated this little leaf, and made it stand out more than any other in the garden. I haven't seen another set of leaves with droplets on their points since, as the water now beads on top of the leaf. This was a spectacular view to me, and captured for future enjoyment. Thank you.

     Meet the MacDonalds. There are, from the left, Jamie, Carter, Mason, and Becky. As a disclaimer, I did not take this picture. If you look closely at the photo, you will see a device in Jamie's right hand. He is using an app that connects to his camera via wi-fi. Jamie took this picture. I requested this picture, from Jamie, because it was needed in the development of a benefit dinner for his wife, Becky, who was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. That event is a whole other story than I want to focus on, but I will say that it was a success and Becky is doing much better. No, this post will be a reflection on our friendship that led to a common interest in photography. I hope it doesn't bore anyone. 

     I tell people that I met Jamie about the same time that our parents let us cross the street. Jamie lived two streets over, and friendships were made when we all learned how to ride our bicycles. There was freedom there, folks! Over time, Jamie became an avid skateboarder, and my efforts to ride were hilarious to watch. My brother also skated, and their friendship was stronger, as they spent more time together. I hung out with them on occasion, but then again, I was old enough to drive and had a car to take them to skating places. As we entered adulthood, we all went our separate ways and spoke once in a while.

     Ok, we'll speed things up here from the 1990's to 2013. I was about to go to Walt Disney World, with my family, and was really tired of carrying my Sony Mavica CD Camera everywhere. It was heavy and cumbersome to carry around the parks. I called Jamie, because he was the guy that was into photography, to see if he could point me to a camera that was light-weight, had interchangeable lenses, and could easily fit into my backpack for walking around the parks. He said he knew just the camera, and allowed me to borrow his Olympus PEN E-PM2. Technical jargon is what I have tried to stay away from in my blog, but this is important. I urge you to google that camera. Anyway, he also let me borrow a couple of lenses, batteries, and a battery charger, as well as the cord to upload the photos daily. He just wanted me to share some of the photos I took while I was there. No Problem!!

     When I returned from Disney, I had decided that he wasn't going to get the camera back. I walked all around Disney World with this little camera, and got better photo results than my Sony. Better because it wasn't a hardship to carry around. I couldn't attribute any pains in my neck, back or shoulders to having carried this camera. Granted I shot a LOT more pictures than I did with the Sony. I would have to credit the seemingly unending amount of recordable space on the little flash card, versus taking 3-4 mini disks with me on every trip into a park or resort. Less to carry, less weight, more space, and photo quality allowed me to start seeing things I missed with my old camera. 

     I contacted Jamie a few weeks after I returned home and asked him a question: How much would do you want for this camera? Of course, I had to give the Olympus M.9-18mm lens back, which was really difficult. I borrowed it a couple of more times afterward, but knew I would have to start getting gear of my own. 

     That is how I got my start in serious photography. I thank Jamie and Becky for being wonderful friends. A side note: Jamie is an Olympus Trailblazer and has all kinds of advice and logic when it comes to photography. I implore you to seek that advice if you ever come across a difficulty in your photographic adventures. He is always happy to help, if he can. I also want to throw out there that if you are looking for a great and lightweight camera with quality photo results, please check out the Olympus brand of cameras. They have quite a lineup of equipment that can suit any type of photographer. 

     Ok, back to our regularly scheduled blog posts. The next one should be the day after tomorrow. Thank you!

Sunset 090414The sun really impacted this shot sending an orange glow throughout the land.

     This picture is really significant to me. Landscape photography really became a passion for me after seeing the response when I posted this on my Flickr page. Within a couple of hours, it was placed on the In Explore page of Flickr. Although I don't understand it fully, it seems that out of the millions of pictures that are uploaded to Flickr daily, they (The powers that be at Flickr) select a really low percentage of them to be posted in an "elite" page where it is seen in parts of the world that I didn't know existed and to fans of photography and photographers everywhere. By the end of the day, the picture had been viewed 15, 400+ times and was favorited by 243 fans of the In Explore community. I had been shooting landscapes for a while up to this photo, but this one locked it in that this is what I absolutely love to photograph.

     Sunrises and sunsets seem to be the most predictable times to photograph. I specifically look for mornings or nights when there are clouds; not enough to obscure the setting or rising of the sun, but hoping for the glow that usually occurs once the sun is below the horizon is an amazing experience. I typically cannot refuse the opportunity to shoot the sunset, and lately, the sunrise if I am awake that early. So many opportunities, as of late, have been presented to photograph the rising sun, despite how much I want to just go back to bed. I choose the beauty of the scene and photograph it to show anyone who looks what I experienced, perhaps even the emotion of the event. The sun rises and sets everyday, but it's taken for granted because of just that: It's supposed to, therefore it's not really a phenomenon to pay attention to.

   This picture was captured on a September evening in 2014. It shows me that there is a bounty of beautiful landscapes that can be capture within a few miles of my home, and that those that view it can really appreciate the value of what I am seeing; what I am feeling. A week after this photo was captured, my family and I flew to Lake Buena Vista Florida, where I captured more photos of landscapes within the property of Walt Disney World. Despite everything that is there, I looked forward to returning home, in Michigan, to capture more photos of everything beautiful in a place I am familiar with. Things that most people take for granted or just plainly don't see anymore.

A Step Back (2)The kitchen of an abandoned home in Eaton Rapids Michigan.

     This picture is obviously a kitchen room. Two refrigerators and cabinets are a few good clues. But the house that possessed this room was something to behold. The front of the home had a wall that had come down, exposing the interior to the elements. The side porch had a gaping hole under the floorboards where the house began to sink in. There was a massive honey bee nest in the east wall that made it difficult to take pictures through the windows just below it. The kitchen was found through the back door. The floor slats seemed stable, but there was a small hole in the side of the room between two counters. One of them had a water pump and the other had some garbage and jars on it.

     Driving into Eaton Rapids Michigan, on a road I hadn't ever been on before, I passed this house on the left. I turned around, pulled in the driveway, and found that there were two other houses behind this treasure. They were modern houses, so I had to believe that one of them housed the owner. I looked into the field next to the house and there was a guy on a tractor. I pulled off and waved to the tractor driver. In time, he made his way to me, where I noticed he was blasting ACDC over the noise of the machinery. He stopped the motor and the music and I introduced myself, conveying my wish to photograph the house. He said the owner was away on vacation, but given the fact that most people that stop to look at the house do not ask, he didn't see any problem with granting me permission, but advised to not go inside due to the instability of the floors.  He did add that the original owners of this house participated in the underground railroad movement and several former slaves were hidden in rooms under the house.

     I walked around the house a couple of time, photographing little things I could see. As I photographed through one of the windows, I learned of the bees nest directly above me. I did get the shot I wanted, and then fled the area. I walked to the back and found the kitchen as well as the remaining appliances and cupboards. The hole in the floor, complete with a ladder leading into the ground, was no longer a mystery. Through the windows, I could see that the house had become a huge storage structure over the years. There was even a motorcycle inside the living room. I left the area after about an hour and went to a friend's house. I told him about the house, and, of course, he already knew about it. I told him about getting permission, and we went back together. It was then that we entered the kitchen and really got to feel the age of the house. We were standing in a home that stood for something someplace in history. I looked around for a little bit and then left. we were going to come back at a later date when we could look around some more, to explore the upper floors via a drone. 

     We did make it back for one more visit before it was demolished, and the photos from the drone, as well as from our cameras were epic opportunities. This kitchen really shows the age of the room as well as the generations it was used for storage. It was a good find, and the little extra step of asking for permission allowed us to explore farther into it.

Luella Terrill (1918 - 2015)My wife's dear grandmother. This was taken on her 97th birthday

     Luella Terrill (1918-2015)

     I really didn't know Luella Terrill really well. She is my wife's grandma, and I saw her on occasion. Usually when I went out to visit my wife's parents, and then that was only if she happened to be there that day. It didn't happen often. We would enter the doorway to Ron and Darlene Terrill's home and immediately see the walker and know she was there. It was a definite treat for my wife to see her, as she was getting up there in age. The first time I had ever met her (that I recall) was at our wedding. My new wife and I decided to make a contest to seek out the couple that had been married the longest and have that couple take to the dance floor. Year-by-year, the couples sat down until Francis and Luella Terrill were left. They had been married 58 years. The prize to the contest was a solo dance to the tune of Fred Astaire's Cheek to Cheek. Unfortunately, due to their health, they were not able to dance, but we did play the song in their honor. 

     Luella was married to Francis for 61 years when a tragedy struck. Her husband was out in the field on the tractor when an accident claimed his life, in 2009. It was a huge blow to their longevity of union and one that resulted in many changes thereafter. In time, Luella went to live in a senior retirement home. She seemed to like it there, and I got to see her a couple of times while she resided there; both times having been her birthday. This photo was taken at her 97th birthday party. Many friends and family members all came to celebrate her life and their relationship with her. She talked and laughed and had a great time. She was very aware of everything around her, and her disposition was clear and sound. I didn't know that this would be the last birthday party I would attend with her. 

    As I am writing this, the family is grieving the loss of their mother, sister, grandmother. A sadness is draped over the family. Luella passed away on June 21, 2015. She was never in any pain, although she did suffer from a bad heart most of her life. She passed on in the company of her family after having lived a full life. Ninety-seven years old is quite an accomplishment in and of itself. She had presence of mind right up until the very end, and had everything in order for the day she left this world. 

     When I remember Luella, I remember a frail, little lady with strength in wit, communication,  & memories. I spoke with her briefly during her 96th birthday party, about a handmade doll that lay on her bed. I asked about its beginnings. How had she come into possession of this unique doll. She sat with me for about a half hour and explained how it had changed hands, and she ultimately ended up with it. It wasn't a boring story in the least. She retained that memory and was able to tell her story to me,...at 96 years old. She went back to the party and had a grand old time. That was the most I had ever spoken to her, and how I became fully aware at her strength.

     I didn't see strength in her frail body. She, afterall, had to use a walker to get around and hearing aids to hear. No, I saw her strength in those around her. Her kids that she raised and how they are so independent now. How they have raised kids of their own and passed her strength and resolve into them. I saw strength in her presence of mind; her ability to recall stories or carry on a conversation, even in old age. I looked at her wrinkles and knew full well that she earned every one of them, and she wore them so well. Luella was a beacon of strength in my opinion, and I only wish I had gotten to know her better. Perhaps I don't see her the same as those that did know her better, but in the brief amount of time I knew her, this is what I witnessed. Despite our infrequent meetings and our seldom conversations, I admire her for her strength.

     Luella was laid to rest on Wednesday, June 24, 2015. May she rest in eternal peace.

     The late afternoon was one filled with remembrance of a dear soul I had the honor to have met during her life. I was on my way to a visitation for an old, dear friend from my school days. The funeral home was in Grass Lake, Michigan. From the moment I had learned of the revised visitation and its location, I planned to do a therapy session afterwards with my camera. Shooting landscapes and nature has become a very soothing hobby. My spirit calms down and any anxiety or stress I had felt throughout the day melts away with each shutter snap.

     I showed up at the funeral home and found old friends. All of those friends were either school-mates or teachers and/or mentors. We caught up on lost time, all-the-while remembering a common friend. We made it a point to talk with each other about a lot of different subject. We learned what we all went on to do with our lives, as well as how we were doing as we waded through life. Our kids, our schools, our families, and our successes; we had a lot to talk about. Of those I spoke with, most were related to the deceased, and although their hearts were broken, we enjoyed a great conversation. We remembered her life, the impact she made, and our interactions with her. She was a great lady that positively influenced a lot of people, both young and old. Remembering our friendship throughout high school as she was a role model for all of the students she had encountered. She was an active participant in the church that was associated with the school and everyone had the utmost respect for her. Peggy Butterfield had lived a long and successful life.

     When I noticed the sun was getting low, I said my goodbyes and headed out to Grass Lake. I set up my tripod on the edge of the lake, mounted the camera and awaited for the sun to cast its reflection on the face of the water. The streak of golden sunset on the water's face, as it began setting, was a sight to behold. The end of the day was imminent and the final show of beauty was memorable. I suppose that our lives, through memories, begin to be reflected upon by those around us. On a beautiful life, those reflections can glow through conversations of remembrance. We can literally and subconsciously visualize the life that is about to end or just has ended. Like this sunset, a beautiful end, and more memories captured to be talked about for years to come.

Fungus CelebrityA purple mushroom makes a bold appearance through the dead leaves.

     This particular picture has a humble beginning, not something sought after or expected, but it was forewarned. 

     A friend of mine, Jeff Windham, is a zealot when it comes to bettering himself. He sets goals for himself that only baffles me. He is the all-around outdoor activity major. Hiking, camping, jogg...(I'm kidding, Jeff) and running. I'm not a runner, but I enjoy a casual hike and some camping. On this particular day, Jeff, my son, and I had set out on a casual hike at the Waterloo Recreational Area in Jackson, Michigan, near Portage Lake. It's considered casual because I tend to take my camera with me, and there are a few stops along the way that cause everyone to stop and wait for me.

     About three minutes into the hike, we passed some other hikers that were headed out of the woods. They noticed the camera I was carrying, and then said to be on the lookout for a tiny purple mushroom on the left side of the trail. They said that if we were looking for it, we would see it plain as day, but it's easy to miss because of its size. We departed ways, and then kept a lookout for the infamous purple mushroom. After a little while, we thought we must have missed it, because we hadn't found the fungus in about 3/4 mile.

     We stopped looking, but I was still looking for other shots along the trail; stopping here, for a tent worm nest, and there, for a branch with a crazy vine creeping around it. A little farther in, under some newly green foliage, tucked into last autumn's leaves that still blanketed the ground, stood a tiny, purple mushroom. It wasn't at all what I imagined. It appeared to have a layer of slime on it, making it really shiny, and seemingly wet. It was dry to the touch, and the brightest purple in a otherwise brown-coated wood. We spent several minutes in this one spot. Several pictures were taken, in a numerous amount of angles. I used one camera to capture details and another to capture the overall picture of its location and size. 

     This picture really shows what we saw that day. The miracle of regeneration as winter faded away, and life flooded in. The color alone was a step-stopper. It didn't seem real, and I hadn't ever heard of a bright, slimy, purple mushroom before, but there it was. The top was about the size of a fifty-cent piece, and the color was magnificent. It was a good day to be in the woods, exploring nature while in the company of a good friend and my son. It's a memory that won't fade, and a picture to ensure we never forget.

Memorial Day FireworksThe opening explosives at the end of the "Star Spangled Banner" created this beautiful display.

                    This photo doesn't really need a description. I see a lighted man-made waterfall (New LED lights) complete with lighted fountains and an array of fireworks that really bring in every detail around the area. The night is the Saturday before Memorial Day. Before the sun set, and the light faded, a band played at the base of the falls. Rock n Roll favorites and patriotic songs were performed. They engaged the crowd that gathered to 1) remember our veterans and those that have willingly given their lives so that we can enjoy the freedom we have today, and 2) to welcome in the warmer weather. 

                   It was a beautiful evening, but as the sun dipped out of sight, the "warmer weather" went with it. Overall, it was tolerable, but the coolness was really making itself known. Darkness crept in and an announcement was made that the singing of our National Anthem was about to be sung. Everyone stood and men removed their hats. Some of the crowd sang with the performer, others stood with their hands over their hearts. Everyone stared at the flag. "...and the home...of the....Braaaaaave!

                   Barely a moment of silence and the fireworks began. This display sprayed straight up and then fanned back and forth. It continued for about 30 seconds longer than I allowed my camera to capture the opening. It was a brilliant display that resulted in a photo that captured a lot of attention. Sometimes, so many fireworks go off at the same time that the details are lost in the blur. this photo really brought out the detail of the display, and I'm grateful that so many really appreciated it. :)

     I am, overall, a landscape photographer. I seek out places that details are often overlooked. I have said this before, but I will repeat this somewhat known fact: When I decide to go out and photograph landscapes, I like to drive down roads I don't know. I love to get lost. Technology can always get me home, but when it comes to taking a picture, I want to not care where I am; I want to be in a place where I am unfamiliar with the area so I can focus on the details. Whether it be an old structure, like a barn or old shed, or some plants where the light is being collected in the leaves; I want to find something that can be easily overlooked or dismissed as normal.

     When deciding to go out to capture a sunset, I really look for scarce to moderate cloud cover. A setting sun is a softer light that seems to make its surrounding glow. The illumination is captivating, and it's almost everything that makes a great photo, in my opinion. A great foreground completes it. We can watch sunrise and sunset times on weather apps, so knowing when to go is the easy part, unless there are a lot of clouds that are breaking apart at the horizon. Given the hills and valleys, the time of sunset can vary. This one piece of property was perfect for this sunset. 

     There were two fields that had been plowed within the past month. They were divided by a drainage ditch with some low, flowing water. On each side of the drainage ditch was a 6-8 foot patch of very green grass that followed the drainage ditch from the road all the way to the woods. By the time I had found this property, the sun was about to set, but it was behind the clouds. A small opening was between the clouds and the horizon. I waited for the right moment before taking a series of shots. This one was the best one. The sky was glowing, the sun was setting, and a plethora of colors were included in what was a picture perfect evening that I was able to share with everyone that cares to view my photo.

Chapter 1-AbuseA book, sitting on a window sill, is opened to Chapter 1: Abuse

     Among the friends I have, a group of them are adventurous photographers. We are all scattered throughout the state, but we have one common interest that draws us together for new adventures in urban exploration. Some of them live near the areas we explore, and are able to look into the building or area before we put ourselves in harm's way. Of the places we have visited, not one had felt unsafe in,...until this one. Keeping in groups is usually the safest means of travel, but for this shot, I had found myself alone. I was very fearful for my safety at this point, but the book kept me there for a few more seconds.

     This book was among many in this classroom. There were books scattered all over the floor, some were still in book cases, and then there were these, spread across the window sill of a shattered window. We were exploring the Colin Powell Academy in Detroit, Michigan. While seeking the largest room in the abandoned school, we went through some of the rooms. When I came across this room, there was an eerie sense of quiet in the building. We typically communicate with each other all throughout an abandoned building just for the sake of safety. This book had really caught my attention though, and when I saw what page was hanging open, I knew I had to capture it. Chapter 1: Abuse. What a peculiar page to have been left in this position; in a school that has since been left behind, abandoned. The paper was yellowed and stiffened by the constant bombardment of the outside elements, yet the words stood out for attention.

     Shortly after capturing this shot, I moved toward the doorway, seeking the company of my fellow photographers...all I found was the same strange quiet...that, and the two unknown guys standing right outside of the same window I was photographing the book. They were looking into the window, and we made eye contact. It was time to find my friends! I texted one of them, and they got back with me almost right away, and we were reunited on the next floor up, where they had found the room we all sought: The gym. We continued our exploration, but I refused to let any of them out of my sight again. None-the-less, another great place to visit, a lot of photos taken, and time spend with friends of a common interest.

                    When I get out of work, I drive to my Mom's house and pick up my son. Sometimes my Aunt Connie is there and she likes to look at the pictures I had been able to capture since the last time I had seen her. She really takes joy in viewing them, and sometimes offers some of her perspectives as to what she looks for in a photo. Everyone is seeking something different, so I can't just focus on what she likes, but it is good to hear, from people, what they like. As a photographer, I really dig nature. The sky talks, the river sings, and the wildlife compliment every inch of it (So does the bug life).

                   One particular day when my Aunt Connie happened to be there, she mentioned a particular landscape perspective that appealed to her. We went through some of my pictures and then my son and I left. That weekend, I took my son with me as I sought to get lost in the country somewhere. I find that losing sight of where I am allows me to "see" inspirational settings and sometimes capture them. I don't worry about being lost...this is the day of technology, and my phone would get me home. 

                 As I turned on some unknown road, I moved my foot to the brakes and my right hand to the hazards button on the dash. I find that this is something I do lot of now, and the two actions are subconscious. My son was looking for whatever made me stop so suddenly, but realized that it was for a photo. I picked up my camera, and exited the car to overlook this gurgling brook (now free from ice and snow). The fence was partial, and there was an old broken swing tipped over nearby. There was some trash in the creek and on its banks (beer cans), but those were removed in post edit. ---- That day that my aunt told me the perspective she liked, it was this... A small winding creek and an old fence. The broken swing was a bonus, I guess.

Thank you! :)

            The picture above was a spontaneous stop along the way home. I had carpooled with a friend, Jamie MacDonald (one of the Olympus Trailblazers), so I had to be there somewhat early and left when all was said and done. As we approached this area, we decided to exit at the next off ramp and go shoot this oddity along the highway. Located across the street from the Whitetail Museum and Calderone Farms Golf Course, this one-room school house sits on a little spit of land bordering a farmed field.

            With the constant bombardment of news relating to ticks, and the fact that this property was not mowed, walking to the schoolhouse was something we both considered not doing. We were both in shorts and we knew that one of us would end up walking away with a lime-disease carrying bug. We shot from the edge of the grass for a while until I decided to throw caution unto the wind. I approached the building and photographed around it, but the one shot I liked the most was this one: Low to the ground, shooting over the tall grass, capturing the attitude of the sky and the loneliness of a structure that once educated our youth. It now sits vacant, as a semi-filled shed that has been forgotten.

Attentively SpottedTwo fawns enjoying a spring day.

As I travel, there usually isn't much to see, especially when the leaves start to appear on the trees. By that, I mean that the birds are now able to hide within the foliage. Typically, near the Grand River, I will see a red-tail hawk or a blue heron. Those are fun to stop and watch, as well as photograph. I am always looking though; looking for something to pop out at me before I enter the industrial area of Jackson Michigan. This particular day yielded something that was equally fun to watch and capture: Three fawns playing in a small grassy field across the street from a factory. 

As I drove past, I noticed they weren't startled by the passing vehicles, which made me think that the parent was nearby. I safely maneuvered to the side of the road, waited for traffic to clear, and made a U-turn. I was hoping that by parking across the street I wouldn't cause them to run. I have made it a habit to ALWAYS carry my camera, so I opened my bag and found that the lens I wanted to shoot with was already attached. That made for a quick setup. 

I exited my car and began photographing from in front of it. The fawns became curious, and started to walk toward me, which would have put them into harm's way. That wouldn't have made for a good picture, so I lowered the camera, waited for traffic, and then crossed the street. The small deer were startled by my direction of travel and made their way back into the center of the field. Upon crossing, I moved away from them. One of the fawns had made its way to an opening in the woods, while the other two remained in the field. These were those two. They were still on alert at this point, but slowly decided that I wasn't a threat. 

After about 20 minutes of photographing them, I figured I ought to continue on to my destination. When I started to make my way back to the road, the doe half-way exited the woods, stomped her foot twice, and the fawns ran into the woods, followed by their mother, after a brief period of time as she watched me. The session was over, but I was able to capture this image in all of the excitement. They were, as I titled it, Attentively Spotted.

I feel that I am in the shadow of many great photographers in my area. So much inspiration and the plethora of creativity all around me makes me feel that I can do anything if I set my mind to it and point my camera at it. There are portrait photographers, landscape and nature photographers, photographers that dive deeply into urban exploration, and those street shooting photographers that capture life as it happens. All around me, all of the time, and many of them are close friends. I draw on their experiences and energy, and work to create something to be proud of. 

When I photograph something, and it passes my own personal criteria for perfection, I want to be able to say that that picture is something I would put on my own wall; and sometimes I do. I have six pictures of mine hanging on my wall, or awaiting a frame to hang. Those that I want to print someday are listed on this page, for sale to anyone that may feel that that photograph needs to be on their wall too. 

Please take some time and browse thru the categories in the "For Sale" title. If it strikes you, please consider buying it and hanging it. It sure would be an honor to have helped create a piece that inspires.

Thank you :) Nightlife in Downtown Jackson MichiganSitting atop a parking structure in downtown Jackson Michigan, the camera is trained on the cityscape near The Foundry as a band is preparing to play. The traffic is captured on a live composite mode of an Olympus E-M1.