You are currently browsing the monthly archive for November 2007.
Tomorrow we’re riding a slow-paced 80 miler. You can click the link herein to see the map. Ho-hum. A typical “PREP” period ride. Best to bring tunes, drinks and food. It’s a long 5 hours. Now for the rest.
Today’s photo is from Clingman’s Dome. And yes, it’s spectacular – very. No, it’s not near Tremont (my personal mecca) nor the Foothills Parkway. However, it does remind me of the Foothills Parkway. We need to vary it up occasionally. The photo is a very wide pan at 10018 pixels and a large 22mb file. There’s a lot of depth – even with the leaves gone and the ground clearly showing signs of sub-zero temps every night. What a beautiful part of the world.
Let’s go a little deeper in the photo archive. Umm. When last on the island of Oahu, I visited Hanauma Bay. I actually road there from Waikiki on my bicycle – then about 1/3 around the island. This spot is favorite among tourists staying for a three or four day excursion. The trip is fairly quick from Honolulu and removed enough to give the beach goer a taste of Hawai’i. Interestingly, the day I was there I saw cars waiting to pull onto the road – to take you to the parking lot – to park – to visit the beach. So much visitation that a Park Ranger was counting cars to keep from an overfill. UMM. My little 16lb bicycle wasn’t in the way – and so I took my happy ass down to the beach. It was an eye full. I’d settle for the North Shore. It’s lots less crowded and much more Aloha. Peace out.
Aloha from Hapuna Beach. That’s the Big Island of Hawai’i and it’s the place to be. Could you tire of it? Mabye. If so, then go inland for a few days and experience all there is to see and do. Ski – as in snow ski? Yep. The Big Island’s got it. Mauna Kea is the place to watch the stars and see the snow on Hawai’i. With so much to do, I’d best get planning my 08 excursion. TWO weeks – and that’s without a bicycle (well, I’ll rent a mountain bike and see some off-road sites). In 2007 I replaced the Hawai’i trip with a Yamaha 150 (go figure) – not again. The great state of mind known as Aloha is on the docket from here on – some how, some way, even for a few days. And when I move there I’ll need a great gas mileage transporter. Ride on.
It was a wonderful Tuesday – with lots of sun – better, warmer weather and a nice day overall. I took advantage of the weather and ventured outside after work for a ride in the dark. Yeah. Best bring warmer gloves for tomorrow night. Ok – overall this week is going to be great. Great. Because it’s all about having fun from now on. I sound like I’m convincing myself, but really it’s all about fun. Do you ever look at folks – say in their 60’s – and wonder … have they had fun in their lives? What are they living for? What is their retirement plan? What … what … what if … why … are they having fun? Have they had fun? What’s the word fun mean? My def: F-U-N > smiles, laughter, people talking, music, mental vacationing (regularly), and a general mental attitude of … “I want more of that please.” Nuf said.
I continue to notice one thing: people postponing fun tend to have less fun. ERGO – Let’s have more fun. Can I get a right on?!
Random image of the day – very random. Figure it out. Yeah, it’s the garage, well a small corner of a 2,100 sq ft garage.It feels more like a gallery with some kewl “shiznet” in it than a garage. I’ll snap some mo shots. But it’s my escape from the world of riding, the world of racing, the world of advertising and the University.
It’s a great place to peel off a few hours while doing nothing but care shiznet.
Color – color everywhere. Random placement of images and such on a blank canvass. I should have used more white space (LOL). With my new program, “Color it!”
I’ve got a retouching helper to aid in masking, cloning, cropping, painting and goofing off. You’ll
probably ‘not’ like the attached photo image/photo art, but I had to try my hand at using some of the new tools in the box. Otherwise, this photo does one thing – it adds lots of brightness to an otherwise dreary day. Peace.
The route for my Saturday bike ride started in Greenhills (actually near West End Avenue) and carried me through Belle Meade out to
Old Hickory Boulevard down Vaughn Gap and over to Old Natchez Trace Road. Naturally this has been replaced with the highly modernized Natchez Trace Parkway stretching 442 miles in total length. My ride wasn’t that long. Well, for today anyway.
I covered a mere 73 miles – starting at mom’s house and traveling to mile marker 407 on the ‘new’ Natchez Trace Parkway. I soaked up the entire route – as much soaking as you can do when it’s 35 degrees. This route was a favorite when I was in college. I’d ride this road three or four days a week. The Old Natchez Trace road is strikingly similar to River Road near my home in Maryville. Nothing odd about that … I suspect I enjoyed it so much while in college that I subconsciously moved near a similar location to continue enjoying it later in life? Not sure – but it’s interesting.
At Mile Marker 423.9 along my route I stopped for a water bottle change (I consumed four total) and grab a snack from the rear pocket of my jersey. With the trusty Pentax, I shot the panoramic photo.
This spot, in 1796, marked the location between the United States to north and the Chickasaw Nation to the south. Ergo the Valley Divide. No arrows were found – but I did run into some biking buddies on the Parkway. Another story – another time.
Bike riding has a history lesson associated with just about every ride. Sometimes it’s a “don’t ride too close to cars lesson … other times it’s a slow down you fool you’re not going to outrun all six of those dogs (LOL) lesson.” Today’s lesson was a reminder that the smooth-as-glass, no road signs, no commercial trucks, no stop’n-robs – no nothing (!) road that we call the Natchez Trace Parkway was once known as the first American interstate highway. Long ago, at its best, it was a wide path.
The ‘new’ Natchez Trace Parkway has two lanes that are extra wide, and in most locations it has a shoulder. If you travel the road just make sure to take food, drink and a cell phone. There are no places to stop and replenish supplies.
Although no photo was taken, my turnaround spot was mile marker 407 – site of the Gordon House. In the early 1800’s (like 1801), the Gordons operated a ferry that took passengers across the Duck River. The house was built later in 1818. Long time ago and yes, the ferry has been replaced with a bridge.
The second photo, taken on the ‘old’ Natchez Trace Road, tells the rest of the story.
Ayali (ah-yah-lee). Goodbye in Chickasaw.
Last night we (mom, Thurman, Amy-Ames and moi) traveled to “Briktops” on West End Avenue. My treat. IT was yummy. The restaurant is the site of the former Houston’s Restaurant (a long-standing Nashville favorite) – just about 3 minutes from mom’s place and is well worth the visit. It’s nice to step out and get away from the gobble-gobble of turkeyville. I ate enough turkey for next year.
On Thanksgiving we ate at the Country Club — and I had (!) scrambled eggs with cheese, roast beef, grilled asparagus, shrimp (chilled), garlic crackers, Starchuck coffee and some chocolate silk pie to wrap it up. Blah-blah-blah. Here is the photo of the day – me and Ames at Briktop – smiling and having fun. Yeah.
Well – in 2006 (last year) I was in Jonesboro with my extended family. Yeah. We drank. A lot. We ate. Even more. We played games – that required drinking to keep up with. We ate to regain energy. We napped (some more than others). And we laughed. A lot. Here is a photo montage for all those viewing my site today! I miss you too.
Many people touch our lives – and even more brush up against us. I’m so thankful to have a lot of people in my life that are helpful, friendly, giving, loving and authentic. My family – certainly. My girlfriend – Amy-Ames.
My cycling buddies too. This past week several people at my workplace surfaced as “more than just colleagues.” It was a particularly stressful week – and yet – several people shouldered the burden with me – along side me – and I was lifted by them. David J (Captain Internet), Amy (Superhero of Web traffic), Amanda (Queen of ‘get it done’), Brian C (Mr. 24/7), Nick V (Creative Master), and Ricky-Rick (Art Director of navigation).
I’m also thankful that I’m in possession of mental photographs that bring instant smiles. I’ve included one from Hawai’i that I took near Pali outlook. Lush greens, royal blues and strong winds. Here is the link to a short video I took just after I snapped the photos: Pail – Oahu. A cocktail for the senses.
Aloha.
Traveling through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park on Tuesday of this week, I stopped and captured a photo – randomly – to make sure I reminded my own eyes where the colors live this time of year. Fewer of them are on the trees – more and more I find them on my car, on the roof and the ground. The trip to and from Gatlinburg was a bit – shall we say interesting and disturbing. En route, an SUV met a large motorcycle head-on just up from Metcalf Bottoms. One person was ER’d away (that means to the emergency room – I’m NOT referring to Queen Elizabeth!) – and I don’t know about the second person. I’m not even sure what happened. The SUV had to be towed – so it was a significant crash. I SLOWED down after that site. And will SLOW down in the Park. Whew.
The photo of the day was taken near Sugarlands Visitor Center after a great meeting with a great client. (Greatness defined as important and valuable.) Each time I meet with the folks at Jackson Mountain Homes I truly enjoy the discussion and the feedback (even when we need to improve something). Politeness is extended – courtesy to “be yourself” is given – creativity is expected but not demanded. It’s pretty easy to understand why JMH is a successful cabin rental company. If you go to the mountains, stay with Jackson Mountain Homes – they do take your vacation personally. Peace.
Near home. At home. The favorite among those who bicycle near the Foothills. The River Road (or Old Walland Highway) is the “standard” on a weekly route to and from The Institute at Tremont. I’ve rarely stopped … but did so today. Well, yesterday I stopped. The photo of today was taken roadside – near the bridge that carries you from River Road to Highway 321. I’ll add nothing more – enjoy.
I love you Amy-ames. My email today had you really worried! Yessur. Ok. I’ll post fun-fun for now and get back to the real posts for later. XO, D
Ever wonder why we wear what we wear to work? Or to the mall – or to the grocery? Ever think about the “wearables” for the day? When we plan our wardrobe we are in essence planning the future. I believe that our future is “dreamed” the same way — we plan it out or it’s planned out for us.
Think about this – how are you going to work tomorrow? What turns will you make along the way? Can you make choices that change your path but allow you to arrive at the destination just the same? Yes. Yes. Yes.
Dreaming about our future is exactly (!) the same way. Meditation experts recognize the importance of thinking clearly and also the significance of “imagining” our destination before we arrive. Some life-coaches call it thinking from the end – backwards. The focus is on the process — with a goal in mind. Ergo – when we discover the vision of what we want – and can then go about taking the steps to arrive at the blue suite, black shoes, white shirt — or — jeans, hiking boots, sweater, backpack — blah-dity-blahblah. You get it.
Today we’re reminded that somewhere on this planet warm weather abounded. Yessur. The goal. Steps to realize the goal include distinct visioning so we’re reminded of the goal with clarity and vivid detail. It encourages realization. Find a photo of what you desire – and focus on it.
It could be success at work. Or, family harmony. For some – the ability to climb a mountain. Others – to make sure their family is healthy, happy and love. From my spot on the globe I’m thinking of a warm destination in the middle of the Pacific. So – we have a view from Hawai’i. I do imagine that on a routine basis.
Enjoy – Aloha.
Ok – first – the Big Green Egg. This ginormous egg is a terrific ceramic smoker. This lunker is stashed off River Road and hasn’t been used now for many months. I suspect an offer of $1,500 would snatch it .. but I’m not sure. I’ve got the “mini” and it’s been in operation for about 10 years now. It’s easy to cook on/with – using both direct and indirect heat. You can get a 6 hour cooking cycle from one small batch of charcoal. It uses real coal only. And with a 6 hour cycle, you can change the smoke every 40 minutes based on what you cook. Start with steak – using pecan. Then cook some fish – using cherry. Finish off with some pork chops – using hickory. YUM-yum-Yummy. Visit Big Green Egg and find out more.
Why the hell is it that folks have to deface signs in an effort “to leave their mark?” I’m amazed at the lack of respect – and the attitude that joins forces with penmanship like we see here. Such antics affect me … why? Is it because some of us want pristine signs giving us information? Or possibly that additional graffiti detract from the sign itself? If you look closely, “Bub and Lisa -07″is written in black ink at the top of this sign. Can I get a “WTF.” If my can of gasoline were handy I would have erased this tacky addition.IN any case, the mountains of North Carolina are in the background and are easily viewed from the Cherohala Skyway. Enjoy.
What a week.
How about 55 hours of work. 17 hours of working out. 8 hours dedicated to UTK (and my students’ needs) … when did I sleep, eat or think! I’m not really sure. Alright then – let’s figure in about 50 hours of sleeping and another 4 hours of driving and 3 hours eating. 8 hours with Amy-Ames. What’s left? Well it seems bigger than it is. With just 24 hours “left over” I had little time (in my opinion) to contemplate the afterlife of ‘work.’ I.E., Hawai’i. Nuf said — “can I get a ‘right-on?’”
No worries, there is enough sun to shine on you too. I’ve picked a delightful photo for today’s viewing pleasure that resonates with lots of folks. The blue sky – the palms – the sand – the slight surf – the shade – the thought of BEING there. Whoa. Ok then. Shine on – Rock on – Right on. Aloha.
Another day at the office. LOL. Seriously – it was more fun today than any other because it was cold outside – I got a new monitor for home (an LG wide screen) – I left on time and there wasn’t much fuss in my class at UTK this AM. Yeah. Happy or not it’s just another day – or so it seems. I’ve attached a random photo for review … actually there was nothing random about today’s photo. It’s from the island of Oahu – and is lovely. I’ve been to Hawai’i everyday this week and plan on that mental vacation as often as possible. Right-on. Enjoy it – I certainly did.
Whoa. Can you imagine – two days in a row that it’s raining in east Tennessee. How nice. What’s even nicer is the fact that I feel good about it raining. As much as I love the rain, I’d prefer not to ride in the rain. I did yesterday but it was just wet, not raining. Needlesstosay – no other riders were outside working out. AND – very few cars traveled the boulevard nearby. Yea.
Enough of that shiznet. Travel to my YouTube video: lightening on the Parkway to see and hear a storm blowing in from the east. This video footage was taken looking toward Townsend, Tennessee.
After much ado about dryness, we’ve got a little wet weather. That should clear the air and provide a fresher smell come Thursday. Let’s hope so. The fall has been dry – yet we’ve enjoyed tons of bluebird days. My gut tells me we’ll endure more rain over the winter months than in previous years – and with warmer temps – more rain than snow. Oh well – enjoy each day as though it were the only day we’ve been given. Had I reflected upon that thought earlier this week I wouldn’t have posted some of the nasty-gram-posts that appeared in my blog. Whatev. It’s all about being human, right? Today’s photo is just that – rain-full and peaceful cause it’s taken near Townsend, Tennessee. Where’s my Gortex?
A day off from work. How lovely was that (it was very lovely). Aside from the fact that I didn’t sit through a long series of meetings at the office – most of which could be shorter and kill less trees. No need to use the high-tech shiznet in our conference room – it’s best to print, print, print.
Ok then. I took Friday off and Monday off – and I did what I wanted – GOOF OFF; that was fun. I hadn’t had time to just “be” in way too long. Should I say – not in a long time. Rather than take a “formal” vacation this year, I elected to purchase a Yamaha 150 scooter. Now that might cause some folks a little pain (whatever … vacation or scooter – let me see??). I went the scooter route because it was needed. Is needed.
“Scootie” is a nice addition to the stable of four vehicles, five bicycles and such. Why? … motor-paced training. In the coming year I plan on opening up several cans of whooooop-ass during my races. Training via Scootie will give me an edge. It’s the equivalent to training at race pace and allows for the kind of hard riding associated with racing (24+mph). With Scootie, I can go faster – I can go further – I can train longer – I can train when I need to versus when a group of buddies is ready to train, and I can train even when it’s F’in cold outside. Unless the BGE isn’t in the mood for cold. She’s been good so far – - – we’ll see.
Now for today. I drove Amy-Ames to the Cherohala Skyway. Pointing out the significant percentage grades and the required climbing – particularly as we drove up Montvale and over to “Sweety Pie” (a 17% climb that makes MY legs hurt). The first panoramic photo for today was take atop Sweetie Pie. This is, by the way, just below the top of (- you guessed it -) the Foothills Parkway.
The second – much more impressive photo – was taken atop “Huckleberry Knob,” one of the highest points in the eastern US. Approximately 5,560 ft and it provides a 360 degree view. There is NOTHING blocking the view. Not a tree. “The hills are alive with music … ” LOL! It’s a bald spot on an otherwise nothing spot. There was a Geo-cache bottle hiding near the summit – and we added our own little treat. With a short wooden pencil I had in my backpack, and using some paper we pulled some paper from the Geo-cache, we created a rubbing of the grave marker for Andy Sherman. If you hike to the summit, the grave is clearly marked with a metal cross. Again, I’m talking about Huckleberry Knob just off the Cherohala Skyway. The geo-cache was a nice and interesting ending to our picnic atop Huckleberry. We also found two firearm rounds (a .44 and a 9mm) on the ground. Umm, are guns needed on this hike? I’ll save the answer for another day. Peace.
The truth set me free this morning. It was a combination of great coffee – a little laughter from my friend’s blog about her cat’s toys (cute) and the fact that I’m spending the day off with my girlfriend, Amy. BGE for now.
The TRUTH: I’m often amazed at how people will tell you who they are – and they do so with every encounter. Some people have it all – and aren’t happy. Associated with my career I encounter lots of people – both in work and at the University of Tennessee. There are a few people I know who have accumulated real wealth – I’m talking real wealth. However, the businesses they own tie them down … to the business(es) and thus the money becomes a noose of sorts. When contemplating why people are so damn moody – it’s probably because they’d rather be out fishing or doing something fun. Imagine having enough money to do what the hell you want to do when you want to do it – and because you have some commitment to your business(es), you … well … cannot. If you know “WTF” – then “WTF!!!!”
I’ve been a whipping boy for moodiness long enough – I tend to ‘take it’ because I’d rather not push back due to the flack-attack or the ‘tude’ that comes with the response. Not any more. That ended with the last cup of coffee 2-Day.
The last few months have whipped my ass.
Here’s where I’m at on this topic: crabby people suck. People who say, “I don’t push people in front of the bus” (and DO) – suck. Even if they are paying clients – they suck. People who discount your opinion when you’ve got the most valid opinion (and knowledge) in the room – they suck too. What really sucks – is the fact that being happy and helping one another is a lost art and curt rude behavior is the accepted norm. When you leave horsepower at the starting-gate, you run a race less-than-your-best. How odd is that? I mean, if you had, for example, 550 hp for your race – wouldn’t you want to tap into it? Some people like placing a governor on the engine just to make sure we conserve fuel (LOL).
FEITCTAJ – fit-z-ga (Russian for “Fuck’emiftheycan’ttakeajoke.) Ahh, that feels better.
Some of us have simple pleasures in life that keep us tracking – fewer have none and they are even happier. I am in awe of the natural setting that surrounds us – especially here in east Tennessee. Just a quick bike ride and you’re in the National Park. How awesome is that?! Just a little further and you’re in North Carolina on the Cherohala Skyway. How awesome is that?! Post #1 today is from Tremont – at the creek – by the bridge – where the water runs peacefully – where I love to stop and soak up the world. Guess where I’m going 2-day: at-The-Creek-in-Tremont-Soaking-up-the-sounds.
Herein are some photos taken along the airstrip on the North Shore. This little airport is situated well outside town and certainly off the beaten path. Well – sort of. On this end of Oahu, crime was once very high. Due to its isolated location and proximity to an off-road trail leading to the mountains, this became a fox hole for many criminals doing the “hit and run” on local well-to-do homes.
The road is now paved – for a good stretch (about 8 miles – I’ve ridden it on my bike) and development regulations have minimized potential hotels or resorts from popping up. Ah, the airstrip, Dillingham Airfield – please use these words “supa-badass” when referring to the location.
With mountains as a backdrop and the Pacific just off the north, it’s a hub-bub of flying frenzy. You can wave-soar off the mountains due to the continuous airflow or drift inland and thermal-soar to gain altitude.
Feeling gutsy? Go off shore over the Pacific for some aerobatic flying … I did. Probably the very best activity I’ve ever enjoyed while on vacation. I learned to fly an ASK-21 back in the mid-80’s and it was same model I flew over the Pacific. The only (mega) difference – we flew the plane as it was designed to be flown – as an aerobatic two-person sail plane. Again, ’supa-badass.’ Click over to my youtube videos and check-m out.
See my videos here through these links: a) Inverted, and b) Two-g’s. Enjoy – I did.
Yes, you heard correct – the Duchess of Plasma visited the Institute at Tremont Saturday. The motorcade traveled from near Maryville out River Road then through Townsend. Most motorists along the way were peaceful and watchful.
A few drivers came a bit close to her – I assume to verify that she is indeed the Duchess of Plasma. With a minimized wind resistance, she traveled 321 at a speed of 24mph (cruising speed). The brief stop at Tremont allowed for a jel-pak and water bottle refill. And a photo. With refreshments, the Duchess was in the mood for some faster paced travel back to Maryville. Existing Tremont we then traveled to the Parkway at 30mph and 25 for most of Highway 321. The trip back home is always a bit faster (mostly downhill) and the wind had settled somewhat. Ahh, the sound of a disk wheel, the aero position, the aero water bottle – and plenty of ‘tempo’ on the Nano.
Nearing the Avery Estate (known as the Country House), she requested a brief respite for another photo capture. Ergo the panoramic insert taken one mile from home. Enjoy.
I think therefore I can imagine – and without having visited (yet) Palau, the 343 islands that make up this “Eden” are highly attractive. Little did I know that the TV program, “Survivor” was
once there – oh boy. Whatever – I’m assuming the producer selected an outer island – possibly #342. Let’s hope so.
The more I research this destination, the more I realize it’s got my name on its list. Hell, it’s way-far from what we know and it’s even further than the weather-man can talk about – even with weekend updates (LOL). I say – “sunny, warm, and full of blue-bird days.” Best not get sick – you’ll have to travel to Guam or Honolulu to find assistance. Right on.
So when I go there, I’ll likely stay at the Palau Plantation Resort. The property is tight – right – and very pri-vite. Can you say, “my new home.” Let’s mentally go to the place we fashion as mecca each day. Why? It’s healthy – it’s also the quickest method of realizing a dream. According to Dr. Mitchell Perry, author of In the Zone, visualizing your future gives the mind control over the body and ultimately over the future.
Can I have a eatable version of “In the Zone?”
The visuals are killa – and worthy of visualization. Right on.
Another beauty for the eyes. Yes, it’s WAY out there in the western part of the Pacific. That pearl is called Palau. I would have loved to be there today – sunning and relaxing (not sure if I could relax but I’d try). With a tropical paradise surrounding you, what else is there to do? It’s an awesome natural environment to snorkel, scuba, hike or just watch the sting-less jelly fish. Yes, there is such a thing.
Take a look-see at the photo gallery (since I’m all about photos you’ll find these exceptional and worth viewing), and you’ll discover several visual reasons for at least a mental visit. I suggest the mental visit first – as it’s 4,609 miles from Honolulu (like flying from Atlanta to LA) and most folks fly to Hawaii then to Guam then to Palau. Did I hear two weeks of vacation required??? Rock on.
Ever wonder how some young folks make it in this world? I do. Most of the late afternoon on Tuesday was spent dealing with a young woman who just “doesn’t get it.” It’s not the fact that she hasn’t really worked in this world – nor that she fashions herself living in the real world of “life.” She’s “performing” as though she were in college even though she’s not. It’s based on the fact that even at 20-something she’s a child. There are freshmen in my class at UTK that are more mature. This graduate of an SEC college that shall go nameless acts more like a high school student and not at all like a young woman with any sense. Baby go wagghhh is applicable. HA.
Umm, why am I writing about this “person.” I see hope for her. Of course, there had better be a private plane involved – or so a former intern told me. BLAH – baby go waggghhhh.
I’ve been on a kick lately with a huge focus on Hawai-i. Possibly it’s the beauty — more so because it’s so off-the-beaten path — even more so because it’s the favorite spot in my mental vacation these days. Especially with some very difficult people on the career front – even more so because some of them have serious issues with professionalism.
Tar and feather? I didn’t hear that did I? Ok then. The photo of the day is a terrific sunset shot taken from the base of Diamond Head. Look closely and you’ll find the sail boats taking in the last bit of sunlight heading back to Honolulu Harbor for the evening. This is a spectacular time of day — only in Hawai’i.
After a weekend full of working out: Saturday was slated for three.point.three hours of motor-paced riding with the BGE (that is Ames), with another three hours of power-washing the driveway – then grilling some tasty steaks (YUM) and football.
WHOA. I’m tired.
Today, I worked for four hours and then road to my favorite place – “Mecca,” a.k.a., The Institute at Tremont. Today’s image was taken at the wooden bridge which carries you across to the Institute itself. I thoroughly enjoy stopping there to take in a moment of silence. The water is very peaceful and the autumn air felt great today. The lack of noise pollution is refreshing and I mentally go “there” when life’s stresses pinch me during the day. Today I added a .mov to give you some sound to the silence that awaits the visitor. Enjoy.
To the North Shore. Right on. It’s just about this way. I took time out to view some shots from my Hawai-i collection and didn’t realize that I had four photos taken just across the street from Jameson’s.
Ok – so I stitched them together – poorly I might add – but you get the view that I say that evening. Albeit I had to turn my head some to soak all of that view inside my brain, but it was there none-the-less. Knowing what I do know – I would have used a tripod to stabilize the shots and assist my photo retouching efforts to make a better final photo. This was a mega file – 8957 x 1611 (WHOA). In any case, this week has been nothing but Aloha. Again, right on. Mahalo to my Pentax.
And there’s plenty of salt in the Pacific Ocean. Kai, Hawaiian for “salty water,” takes you to a wonderful place today: the south east shore of Oahu. This photo was taken about 11AM with lots of sun overhead and plenty of ocean in front of me. With VERY few people around.
Unlike Waikiki or the North Shore, this area is not considered a hot spot for sunning, snorkeling, or much else. Other than a few guys fishing and some private homes it was way off the “I-want-to-be-there” scale. Right-on. I’m so digging the opposite side of Oahu. On one end Oahu is like New York City – and the other end – it’s more like the Hawai-i that most people know and love.
She’s able to leap creative hallways with a single click of the keyboard. Known to see through ‘group hub.’ Can navigate the most wicked of job sups and maintains the same full-smile demeanor. Yes, it’s Amy – interactive super-hero of the week. Amy is her name and she’s new to Tombras. But she’s not new to interactive – - she’s a transplant from L.A. (the real L.A., not lower Alabama) and has a knack for making things “work.” Mostly, I believe, it’s because she’s upbeat, optimistic and very personable. Check out her blog, “Keeping up with the Morrells” and you’re on your way to discovering more about Amy – the super-hero.
