Vacation...all I ever wanted

A beautiful relaxing trip for my Dad's 80th birthday. Oh, who am I kidding. I was ready for a vacation too! Started in New Hampshire, where we had a celebratory dinner with my Dad's two best friends from childhood. What a treat! The next day took us into Kennebunkport. Of course a must-see was the Bush family compound. Surrounded by a characteristically rocky New England shoreline, but not at all ostentatious. We enjoyed some chowda and seafood for lunch. Subsequent days took us along Route 1 through Kittery and Portland. The journey home took us back through Dad's hometown of Lowell. I do love New England, it's quaintness, beauty and quiet strength. I'll be back.

Remember

In the aftermath of today's horrifying events, I must make a concerted effort to remind myself of the good in the world.   The people who stop to help strangers, the people who pray, the people who love.  Am I angry?  Yes.  Am I sad?  Immensely.   Do these feelings help anyone? No.   What can I do?  I can be more patient in traffic.  I can smile more at strangers.   I can slow down.  There is still beauty in the world...let me be a reminder.​

Gulp...

The sound you hear from me after I make a big purchase from B&H.  Well big for me anyway.  I'm stepping up my game and buying a "real" tripod and ball head, courtesy of Manfrotto.  (Not sure I should say courtesy, since I am paying a pretty penny for them!)  I've had the items in my cart for several days, reading every single review.   I bit the bullet half an hour ago and clicked the "place order" button.  Just do it, the famous slogan said.  ​  Everyone has their toys...mine come from the photography mecca up on I-95.