"Athens of The South"

A most impressive building in the Centennial Park at Nashville, TN is the Parthenon.

It is full scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parthenon_(Nashville)

Trainers meet up with their clients at sunrise where they challenge their physical potential and improve their physical health. A museum is now housed beneath the Parthenon.

Nashville... a city of dreams.

Nashville is a place full of dreams and expectations. Stardom and fame are a driving force behind those who strive to rise above the rest. The Nashville Music Experience is a place for the audience, the spectators. The ones who are on the outside looking in.

Sarah Ventre explored how.  Musicians Weigh Big City dreams against Hometown Pride. in her NPR article.

As I walked the street today, I spotted a man walking with a guitar in hand. In his face, I could see his dreams, hopes and fears. Perhaps an he was headed to an audition or a local live music event or even a recording session...anything was possible. And with his walk, his attitude, anything was possible.

As a fellow dreamer, I saw a bit of myself...and yet I also felt his fear. His knowledge of knowing the statistics...sometimes it helps not to think about the number of dreams that have been broken.

For some reason, the human spirit keeps dreaming. Imagine the courage, and determination it takes to walk on. This may be why we all celebrate each time someone, even a stranger, finds their dream...because deep inside, we all can dream.

Kymulga Grist Mill Barn

 



Inside Kymulga Grist Mill Park Covered Bridge

The large unfinished timbers that frame this covered bridge create interest and stability to the old covered bridge. Located about 36 miles south of Birmingham, AL, I happened by this small park completely by accident.

During my visit, I met another photographer who was very interesting to talk with and very inspiring. His name is William Anderson of William Anderson Photography. His work can be found at www.WilliamAndersonPhotos.smugmug.com

A late night sky.

Being up and awake at 2 or 3 AM has its rewards in Navarre Beach Florida. I looked up and saw this intensely wonderful sky full of stars. How to photograph it was a bit harder. But with just three time exposure shots making an adjustment with each review...after a quick white balance correction, I ended up with this.

A good portrait is more than just good lighting and exposure.
It should also tell about the subject or tell a story.

The aroma in the air today was unmistakable. It was sweet and lingering. Sweet as a Gardenia bloom and just as soft but not as fragile. It was an aroma that could only happen after weathering the bite of   cold winter days and the turbulent winds of spring.

This sweetness can only happen after years of growth, learning patience along the way and remembering to be thankful for the sunshine and rain that gave life. A sweetness that can see the blooms that have faded and will soon fall from the tree to continue providing a source for growth and strength for buds yet to bloom.

I stepped back and filled my lungs with the scent of rain from a nearby cloud. Remembering that even in the rain, the Magnolia is grateful. It reminded me of my home in Mississippi where my own Magnolia has bloomed and shared the sweetness of life. She turned seventy this year and her color remains bright and peaceful. Like the aroma in the air today, she lingers, calling all of those around her to bloom.



Yosemite Valley
The view of Yosemite is spectacular from whereever you find yourself...but among the most awe inspiring views in my life is just as you exit the tunnel leading into Yosemite, you are given the grand view of the valley with its majestic cliffs flanking each side.

I have chosen to present this in a black and white version because I always imagine myself standing next to Ansel Adams when I am in Yosemite.