the little things

Catawba Rhodo

Here on Roan Mountain the rhododendron look over the blue ridges in the distance.  This past weekend was the 65th Roan Mountain Rhododendron Festival.  The weather was tough for those of us that came out for the celebration.  Our first trip to the top was in heavy clouds and light rain.  A second drive back up the mountain several hours later brought up an exciting adventure.  The temp. was near 58 and with clear skies the visibility was really good.  The storms had passed leaving us a real treat.  It was really something to see.

kist

freckles

youngblood

50mm f1.8 1/1250s ISO:1600

after the rain

55mm f5.6 1/200s ISO:1600

Robert Norman Jones

If you need someone to honor today honor this man, Robert N. Jones.

He was the grandfather of a Shipmate and friend of mine, Master Chief Robert Jones.  Several years ago I was with Rob when his grandfather was buried.  We stood side by side in our Dress Blue uniforms and honored him as a Shipmate, fellow Chief and a grandfather.  Look here at his Navy ID card.  He was DISCHARGED on DEC 7th, 1941, can you believe that.  He rejoined the US Navy in 1942 and completed his tours of duty in the Pacific Theater and was promoted to Chief Petty Officer.  

He served in the United States Navy and he served well.

In Memoriam

And I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.

And I won't forget the men who died,

who gave that right to me.

bamboozled again

50mm f1.8 1/60s ISO:100

bamboozled light

50mm f1.8 1/320s ISO:100

inside out

50mm f1.8 1/8000 ISO:1600

a day late and a dollar short.

I'm supposed to be posting my Brenda Photo Challenge photos this morning.  The assignment was May flowers since Spring is in full swing now most everywhere.  Unfortunately I worked ever day for the last 9 or so days... and several of those were double shifts.  I have about 2 hours to relax this morning, enjoy my two cups of coffee and breathe.  Then I'm back off to another shift.  I should have pulled out of the challenge this go round.  

  

blades of summer

stars of the clematis sky

the setting