Not much beats hearing Debbie and Rob play baroque music…other than listening to them play by candlelight.
I have some wonderful friends.
Night Forge
Speaking of Terry
When you have a conversation with Terry, he spends as much time listening and thinking as he does speaking. Which makes his words all the more interesting to hear when they do come out. He may be soft spoken, but he commands your attention none-the-less.
Wet Day on the Farm
Typical of late fall weather here in Ohio, we’ve had plenty of rain. Slow falling, drizzle, the kind that seeps into your bones. The kind that creates lots of mud.
The animals don’t seem to mind at all. And so, I suppose that I shouldn’t be bothered by the weather either. But, I am. As a photographer, I like the textures and saturated colors that come out in the rain. As a human being, and one in his fifties at that, I have begun to enjoy my creature comforts too much to fully embrace cold wet weather. I am not after all, a pig. Though some might say otherwise.
Georgia Museum of Art
I was in Atlanta over the Thanksgiving holiday and had the pleasure of visiting the Georgia Museum of Art. Located on the UGA campus, the museum is small, but has always been a favorite. True to form, the visit was really enjoyable. There were several new exhibits…at least new to me, and as always, their collection of primitive furniture is wonderful. However there was an exhibit of instruments and materials used by American brass bands in the 19th century and a collection of needlework created by early 19th century girls.
The highlight was a fantastic display of Japanese Samurai armor and weapons. Each piece was gorgeous and amazing in the artwork and styling. Certainly, I can’t think of any other implements of battle that can come close in terms of beauty.
If you are an art lover and ever find your self in Athens, Georgia. Give the museum a try. I think you will like it quite a bit.
CMOA
If you have never been to the Columbus Museum of Art, you are in for a fine treat. Not that you would have thought much of the museum in the past. The building was old and too small. The artwork was crowded and there was very little in the way of contemporary or modern artwork on display. I was always disappointed in past visits.
Yesterday, my buddy Jim and I were able to take a last minute trip over to see the museum after its new expansion. Now, everything has been flipped 180 degrees. The expansion means new traveling exhibit space and more importantly, room for contemporary and modern art. Best of all, the art now has room to breathe.
The building is covered in copper that has been chemically aged. It has a nice texture and the patina is wonderful.
There are new conference and event rooms with art on the walls. All-in-all, CMOA hit the ball out of the park with the new expansion and the overhaul of the older building. I highly recommend that you visit the next time you find yourself in Columbus, OH.
Sewing Box
I simply loved the blue of the box. Sometimes, you don’t need a reason to take the shot other than you wanted to.
Guard Duty
Betty is ever vigilant, lest a strange cat should suddenly appear and assault her fortress. False alarm. Although Riley is a strange cat, he is no stranger. The big tom is our resident non-resident. When I mention that we have 6.5 cats, Riley is the 0.5 part of our cat herd.
What I am Thankful for this Year
Children’s Barn Dance
Way back in September, I attended a children’s barn dance and was reminded that I am just a big kid when it comes to these kinds of events. I adore seeing the delight, confusion, and all-round joy that the kids are having.
With guidance from the grown ups, the children were put through their paces. The parents were not allowed on the danced floor, but cheered on from the sidelines.
When the dancing was finished, the band kept playing for me. It was one of these fantastic moments, when you realize what good friends you have.
As the winter approaches (and my winter blues begin to kick in, dragging my spirits down), I can look at these images. The children and the great big smiles help me to remember the warm sunny day and the sounds of the blue grass music. The kind acts, and the laughter become vivid in my imagination. And for just a few minutes, the blues are held at bay.
tim mcmurdo 