Error Error Error /  by Dave Hileman

Don’t make the mistake if you visit Capitol Reef National Park in Utah of missing the pie. That would be a serious error in culinary judgement. I highly recommend the Strawberry/ Rhubarb or the Blueberry, or the Apple, or the Cherry, yeah, that’s the ticket, Cherry … or the Apple. Here’s a better idea buy two or four, (I did:) Course, I had a freezer with me. Or the lemon meringue.

Time Flies /  by Dave Hileman

This old store and combination restaurant is found south of the James River in South East Virginia. The modern SUV is motoring past on a modern version of this old country road at a speed the truck likely never obtained and certainly nothing was moving that fast when this structure was built. Everything changes all the time. Keep up!

Portrait Project #4 /  by Dave Hileman

Let me introduce you to Nae. I met her at the Virginia Diner where I was having a late breakfast with Dennis Mook (thewanderinglensman.com) after a morning of shooting photos. The Virginia Diner is an institution in the area and a great place to enjoy country ham! Nae was a delightful person - proud of her cute young daughter and working hard to create a future for the two of them. Appreciated her smile and her vivid personality. The photo was taken in the restaurant between customers and if you visit leave Nae a nice tip!

Portrail Project # 2 and 3 /  by Dave Hileman

Please meet Shane and Sandra. They were at the North Carolina Museum of Art and I stoped to ask what was the large wheel he was pushing. Turned out to be a powered unicycle and it would travel up to 43mph. I asked he if he had done that but he told me he was still learning. Then I noticed the huge helmet and the pads on his legs. I asked if I could take their photo and they agreed. I learned he was planning a cross country Amtrak trip to various National Parks and intended to get around on the unicycle. How cool is that! And the pretty lady also had a pretty laugh.

So day 12 of the challenge with three done, a bit behind I think.

Gila Cliff Dwellings /  by Dave Hileman

These were a challenge to get to in west central New Mexico but they were so worth the journey. A series of still well preserved dwellings dating from about 1100 dot the rugged cliffs. There is abundant water nearby and small fields were cultivated by these folks but hunting was still the main source of food. Geronimo was born in this area. Maybe in one of these homes in the sides of this rock wall.

Skyline Arch near Sunset /  by Dave Hileman

Once again in the Arches National Park this time a few miles back the main road almost to the campground there are a few arches nearby, one hidden and some you must hike in to see but this one is quite near to the road. I just pulled over and shot this one en route to another one that I planned to shoot but could not pass up the nice late afternoon light.

It's all Greek to me.... (several photos) /  by Dave Hileman

….sorry. These are shots from the town of Tarpon Springs in Florida - where they still dive for sponges and there is a thriving Greek community in the beautiful town.

Several neat murals in the town

Sponges in the open air market

Stiros (how it sounded but I am sure not spelled) is a hand on one of the dive boats.

The owner of a small store talking his lunch outside his shop.

This was a WOW bread place. And pastries too. But the bread was so good.

Splashing Fun /  by Dave Hileman

These are two delightful novice nuns on the Atlantic Coast - along with about six others, who were having a wonderful time, giggling and enjoying their day at the beach. They were not allowed to talk but I chatted briefly, very briefly, with the “Nun in Charge” who confirmed they were on a day outing from their convent. I tried to be respectful of their privacy and only shot in a way where they could not be identified.

Two Posts Today /  by Dave Hileman

In addition to the Sunday Scripture, I wanted to post this photo of Cindy on what would have been her 74th birthday. I expect her view today is much more spectacular than this one at Acadia National Park. God provides wonderful memories.

New Project /  by Dave Hileman

This is a significant challenge for me, as an introvert and often too shy to ask, my plan is to try and photograph - with a nice portrait, 100 people I do not know. So basically asking strangers if I can take their picture. Not sure how this will go but I have a mixed start. This lovely man, aged 93, is number one. I met him at the North Carolina Museum of Art’s grounds where he was sitting on a bench watching birds. He was very gracious to let me take his portrait. Later in the week I met two nice people, and their super friendly dog. We had a nice chat and I simply was too shy to ask. Missed opportunity for sure. And I also talked with three young women and just did not know how to ask without appearing, well, creepy. I think I could have asked them as a group, but once again did not act. So if you are keeping score, one shot, five missed. Not a strong beginning for a 2024 challenge. But a challenge for sure! I will not post them all here (or maybe I have, eek) but occasionally I will and let you know how I am faring on the project.

Rolf, an avid traveler, walker, bird watcher, photographer and just a fascinating man.

Beehive /  by Dave Hileman

Looking at the Beehive, an excellent hike, viewed from Great Head in Acadia National Park. Among the plans I am formulating for late spring and early summer is a return to Acadia. I am asked often what park is my favorite. And while it is not the most spectacular nor does it have the most wildlife, it is missing high waterfalls and snow capped mountains, it is my favorite place of all the parks. I love the seascapes, the forests, the carriage roads, the lakes, the bird life, the scale of the island and the wonderful hiking on the 31 peaks and miles and miles of trails. Plus, restaurants of every type, small villages, seafood, superior ice cream and photo opportunities abound. Already looking forward to a week or two on Mount Desert Island.

Evocative /  by Dave Hileman

This photo just speaks volumes to me of so many places I have been where these magnificent birds add to the enjoyment of the place. They turn what you might drive past with barely a glance into a moment of joy at being a participant in the amazing creation.

Glide Path /  by Dave Hileman

This Great White Heron was gliding through the trees intending to land on a branch but a second GWH flared at him and this one dipped and landed a couple of trees away. It is neat to watch them slip through the foliage and they don’t make a sound at that moment. Cool.