More Than Nature Photography

We do love nature, and nature photography. But we also photograph other things - like airplanes. There is something about the sound of an engine warming up, the sight of a propeller flashing in the sun, and the rush you get as the plane leaves the ground. The poem High Flight speaks to the joy every pilot feels as he or she rises to meet the clouds. High Flight was written by Pilot Officer Gillespie Magee, of the No 412 squadron, RCAF, just a few short months before he died in December of 1941. He penned it on the back of a letter to his mother. Starting with "Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth..." it ends with lines immortalized by Ronald Reagan on January 28, 1986, speaking of those who lifted off that morning for what would be their last flight - aboard the space shuttle Challenger:

"Oh I Have Slipped

The Surly Bonds of Earth...

Put Out My Hand

And touched the Face of God."

There are a number of air shows this summer, most with displays of antique or historic aircraft. Attractions may include air races, skydiving, wing walking, aviation record attempts, hover craft, and new technology demonstrations. The largest gathering of aircraft enthusiasts is in Oshkosh, Wisconsin each July; this year the 23rd-29th. But cities and towns across the country hold events, as well. The mid-Michigan community of Alma is holding an air show August 25-26 of this year. A free event, it will offer wing walkers, fly-bys, static displays of military and vintage aircraft, and more. There will be food vendors available on the grounds. If you're in the area this summer, drop on by Gratiot Community Airport. Hours each day are 9 a.m-6 p.m. (The airport lies between Alger Road and Ely Highway, on Seaman Road.)

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100 Blessings

It's funny how a project takes on a life of its own. I started out making a list of things I'd like to take pictures of - piles of M&M's, rocks on the beach, license plates hanging on an old garage door. Then I decided it would be interesting to find 100 items about "me," celebrating my 100th post with items about me/my life/etc. This way I could tie my compulsion to blog in to my theme. So, I started THAT list. And when I was done I decided all the things I was collecting, ideas as well as items, were actually blessings. Things about my life that make me who I am and allow me to keep striving to be the best I can be at what I do. Each activity isn't necessarily a blessing, it's my ability to do the things I love to do, and be with the people I love to be with. This became an introspective activity, and that's probably where I am in my life right now. If the shoe fits..., so to speak. So, welcome to my 100th Post ! Without everyone I've met thr

Macro Monday + One

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Hidden Gem

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Life: Through the Lens

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