My online journal where I share my interests in photography, nature, coffee life, journaling, fountain pens, bicycling, spirituality and asking deep questions.
I had the opportunity to pick up the far traveling Paul Lester at the train station in Denver yesterday morning. The man claimed to be hungry so the first needed was breakfast. This was accomplished a t a place called the Rand House Cafe on east Colfax. Paul and I both proved hunger was satisfied. Instead of driving to Mt, Evans we decided to wander the streets of Golden, CO. We picked the right day as they had the USA Pro Challenge bicycle race the day before so Sunday was quiet and peaceful. We stumbled into a yogurt place called Goozel Gourmet Yogurt. We all know the benefits of yogurt. It supplies us with a healthy amount of bacteria and as a dairy product we get a dose of animal protein. Paul and I went a step further and added the nutritional value of coconut, almonds, chocolate chips and any other toppings we could find. Adding a pink spoon for shoveling it in while sitting in a comfy lounge chair makes life seems pretty good. And as two photographers will do we took a few photographs.
This image came up unexpected. By that I mean I did not see this or envision it. What caught my attention was the late afternoon light. We had rain and overcast skies all day until late afternoon when the clouds broke and the sun came out casting long shadows. I saw the light against the bulding and grabbed my camera. I honestly did not see the window until I looked through the view finder and then it was all I could see. I moved around placing it in various positions in the frame while keeping my reflection out of the window. I also expected to convert it to black and white but I do like the subtle soft hues instead. I settled on this one and ran it through Topaz Adjust. I never saw it coming.
Airports are notorious for waiting, right up there with hospital deliver rooms. I found this man sitting outside the airport in the arrivals section patiently waiting for his ride. And as is the case now a days he was playing a game on his PDA or texting.
It’s good to get out, plain and simple. If we don’t get and take steps to see the world around us then we have missed out sights and experiences we need in life. Sitting in my hotel on this particular afternoon was not going to work. It was cold and cloudy, but no snow. So, I spent some time walking my camera around Church Street in Burlington, VT. And what did I find?
Well, my first stop was at a place called Outdoor Gear Exchange. The “shopper” in me likes to look around, touch all the toys, gadgets, clothes, backpacks; all the things I really don’t need. Thankfully, I walked out without buying anything so it was a good experience.
Enjoying a latte
I then warmed up with a mocha at a place called Speeders and Earls Coffee. It had a good location and was one of those long narrow stores with this lime green color giving it a warm and inviting feeling. They had local artwork on the walls. There were small tables along a wall while on the opposite wall was solid mirrors. The service was wonderful as the young lady made my latte and initiated a nice conversation. I sat down at one of the tables to enjoy the flavor, rest my feet and of course to warm up. The above image is yours truly in a self portrait.
Later on, I grabbed a sandwich at a small restaurant called new moon. They describe themselves as a place to enjoy authentic espresso and creative eating. I had their grilled chicken and brie sandwich with an excellent apricot mustard. Check out the menu to see what other temptations they have. I skipped on their coffee as I had just finished one so I have no idea what theirs are like. The young man making my sandwich as a Nikon guy so of course you know where our conversation went: cameras, digital and film and what we want to do with our photography.
Rainbow of Plates
My final stop before going back to the hotel for some much needed rest was a store called Homeport that specializes in furniture housewares and gifts. When I first walked in the door the bright colors caused my trigger finger to start itching. Oh, and the different patterns were causing my eyes to twitch. I found myself standing there looking at the patterns and colors of this row of stacked plates, my mind trying to figure out the composition and exposure. A woman named, Betty, snapped me out of my trance and asked if she could help me. I told her I want to take a photo and was granted permission. I gave her my blog address and picked up a store business card.
I got some interesting images and met some interesting people. I’m glad I got out!
Today is the 68th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. That attack sank or damaged three cruisers, three destroyers, and one minelayer, destroyed 188 aircraft, and caused personnel losses of 2,402 killed and 1,282 wounded. The United States entered into World War II. I offer a moment of silence in memory of those who lost their lives in that war.
