Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

Madonna and Child in a Two Hour Parking Zone

2011-11-28T10:38:00.000-05:00

"The artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place: from the sky, from the earth, from a scrap of paper, from a passing shape, from a spider's web."

Pablo Picasso

Street painting was first recorded in Italy in the 16th Century. Created by " madonnari," (so named because icons of the Madonna were a common subject of their work) itinerant artists, many who had been brought to the cities to work on the cathedrals and later needed to find another way to make a living when the work for the church was done. The madonnari's materials were tiles, coal and chalk. Their canvas was the pavement in front of the cathedral. The madonnari's goal was to inspire pilgrims to throw a few coins their way . The art form spread throughout Europe--In England such artists are called screevers and in Germany strassenmaler.

Recently Fredericksburg hosted its second annual Via Colori Festival which brings together artists, aspiring artists, a dabbler in the arts or two, and a few souls searching for that artistic spark within themselves, to put chalk to pavement as did the madonnari of old......without the whole livelihood stress thing.

For me this event is not so much about the art but rather the process that creates it. One can marvel at the technique, the beauty, and confidence of years of experience and talent . To appreciate the struggle to create. And to see potential and recognize the desire in someone's first efforts. My interest in this event is not to see what is created but rather how it is created. ....

Street Art of A New Century

A 16th century modannari would probably not understand the street art of today. For the most part religious themes no longer predominate. The role of art in his time, which was used to inspire, teach, and tell stories (and yes make a few coins on the side), has also changed. What he would recognize is the desire to create.

So It Begins.......................

From such mundane things as a tape measure, cardboard, chalk, tape, paper towels, a paint can (?), and what I suspect to be a bag of munchies, the creative process begins. Don't know how the whole barefoot thing plays into this process but then I am not an artist.

Art Immitating Nature......With A Little Help From Nature

"Art not only imitates nature, but also completes its deficiencies."

Aristotle

I must take issue with the esteemed Aristotle on this one. There is no question that the vibrant colors of this piece capture and enhance the spirit of the fall season which we now find ourselves here in Virginia. However, I would say that Mother Nature's small contribution to the bottom left corner of the piece adds immeasurably to the overall effect.

Experience Art--Up Close and Personal

"Every artist was first an amateur."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Well you have got to start somewhere so why not by rolling in it and getting a better feel of the piece. My guess is we are not looking at a budding artist but rather a budding art critic. Or it could be just as simple as an attention getter which at this age is the most probable.

Creation...........

"In wisdom you made them all, the earth is full of your creatures. There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number - living things both large and small... When you send your Spirit, they are created and you renew the earth."

Psalms 104:25,30

Art allows us the opportunity to free ourselves from the bondage of reality and allow us to imagine the unimaginable. We can see ourselves as creators if only on canvas, marble, bronze......or asphalt.

A Moment in the Creative Process

It looks as if the artist is sitting on the ottoman sharing a moment with her creation. What is she thinking about--color, shading? Or is her mind at a different time and place?

All Journeys Begin With a Step

"If you hear a voice within you say 'you cannot paint,' then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced."

Vincent Van Gogh

There are those that are inspired by the efforts of others to create and say to themselves,--"I too can create." Many would see this as nothing more that some childish scribbles. What it actually may be is the beginning of a journey and we were blessed to be present to witness the first step.

The End of the Journey?

From the first random scribbles to inspiring beauty. To create such a picture from chalk on a cracked piece of asphalt is a marvel to behold. But is it fair to say that anyone reaches a point where they can no longer learn, or dream something new, or create even greater beauty?

The Transforming Power of Art

Take a little imagination, vibrant colors, and a little patience and you can take what most people would consider a rather mundane street scene and turn it into a work of art. When looking at this I also wonder about the story behind the picture. What was the inspiration, or maybe memory, that created this scene? Another plus in my book.

We End At The Beginning.............

Like the madonnari of old--Madonna and Child. I actually took a class in Iconography in college. If I am not mistaken (and I'm not because I checked) this is a rendition of the Black Madonna of Czestochowa. It is said that it was painted by St. Luke the Evangelist. While painting the picture, Mary was to have told him about the life of Jesus and he later incorporated it into his gospel.

Madonna and Child in a Two Hour Parking Zone

2011-11-05T21:17:00.004-04:00

"The artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place: from the sky, from the earth, from a scrap of paper, from a passing shape, from a spider's web."
Pablo Picasso

Street painting was first recorded in Italy in the 16th Century. Created by " madonnari," (so named because icons of the Madonna were a common subject of their work) itinerant artists, many who had been brought to the cities to work on the cathedrals and later needed to find another way to make a living when the work for the church was done. The madonnari's materials were tiles, coal and chalk. Their canvas was the pavement in front of the cathedral. The madonnari's goal was to inspire pilgrims to throw a few coins their way . The art form spread throughout Europe--In England such artists are called screevers and in Germany strassenmaler.

Recently Fredericksburg hosted its second annual Via Colori Festival which brings together artists, aspiring artists, a dabbler in the arts or two, and a few souls searching for that artistic spark within themselves, to put chalk to pavement as did the madonnari of old......without the whole livelihood stress thing.

For me this event is not so much about the art but rather the process that creates it. One can marvel at the technique, the beauty, and confidence of years of experience and talent . To appreciate the struggle to create. And to see potential and recognize the desire in someone's first efforts. My interest in this event is not to see what is created but rather how it is created. ....

Street Art of A New Century
A 16th century modannari would probably not understand the street art of today. For the most part religious themes no longer predominate. The role of art in his time, which was used to inspire, teach, and tell stories (and yes make a few coins on the side), has also changed. What he would recognize is the desire to create.

2011-11-05T20:15:00.004-04:00

So It Begins.......................

From such mundane things as a tape measure, cardboard, chalk, tape, paper towels, a paint can (?), and what I suspect to be a bag of munchies, the creative process begins. Don't know how the whole barefoot thing plays into this process but then I am not an artist.

2011-11-05T19:57:00.005-04:00

Art Immitating Nature......With A Little Help From Nature
"Art not only imitates nature, but also completes its deficiencies."
Aristotle
I must take issue with the esteemed Aristotle on this one. There is no question that the vibrant colors of this piece capture and enhance the spirit of the fall season which we now find ourselves here in Virginia. However, I would say that Mother Nature's small contribution to the bottom left corner of the piece adds immeasurably to the overall effect.

2011-11-05T19:25:00.001-04:00

Experience Art--Up Close and Personal

"Every artist was first an amateur."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Well you have got to start somewhere so why not by rolling in it and getting a better feel of the piece. My guess is we are not looking at a budding artist but rather a budding art critic. Or it could be just as simple as an attention getter which at this age is the most probable.

2011-11-05T18:28:00.002-04:00

Creation...........

"In wisdom you made them all, the earth is full of your creatures. There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number - living things both large and small... When you send your Spirit, they are created and you renew the earth."

Psalms 104:25,30

2011-11-05T17:59:00.000-04:00

A Moment in the Creative Process
It looks as if the artist is sitting on the ottoman sharing a moment with her creation. What is she thinking about--color, shading? Or is her mind at a different time and place?

2011-11-05T17:42:00.002-04:00

All Journeys Begin With a Step

"If you hear a voice within you say 'you cannot paint,' then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced."

Vincent Van Gogh

There are those that are inspired by the efforts of others to create and say to themselves,--"I too can create." Many would see this as nothing more that some childish scribbles. What it actually may be is the beginning of a journey and we were blessed to be present to witness the first step.

2011-11-05T17:39:00.001-04:00

The End of the Journey?
From the first random scribbles to inspiring beauty. To create such a picture from chalk on a cracked piece of asphalt is a marvel to behold. But is it fair to say that anyone reaches a point where they can no longer learn, or dream something new, or create even greater beauty?

2011-11-05T17:11:00.001-04:00

The Transforming Power of Art
Take a little imagination, vibrant colors, and a little patience and you can take what most people would consider a rather mundane street scene and turn it into a work of art. When looking at this I also wonder about the story behind the picture. What was the inspiration, or maybe memory, that created this scene? Another plus in my book.

2011-11-05T16:55:00.001-04:00

We End At The Beginning.............
Like the madonnari of old--Madonna and Child. I actually took a class in Iconography in college. If I am not mistaken (and I'm not because I checked) this is a rendition of the Black Madonna of Czestochowa. It is said that it was painted by St. Luke the Evangelist. While painting the picture, Mary was to have told him about the life of Jesus and he later incorporated it into his gospel.

Ruminations From the Road Less Traveled

2011-09-18T23:16:00.000-04:00

The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself.

Henry Miller

While composition, lighting, and color can draw one's attention to a photograph; it is the story inside the photograph that holds it. We enjoy photographs of a beautiful sunrise, the colors of a fall day, the majesty of a mountain range; but with nothing else to hold our interest we move on. But if the photo makes us think-- make us stop to glimpse back down the road we have traveled, present new perspective, remind us of our humanity --then it truly becomes memorable. So let us take a few moments to look past the picture and see the story, a different perspective, maybe a bit of humor, as we continue down the road less traveled..............................

Our Forgotten Past
King George, VA--Overgrown, unseen and forgotten. For most this is how we see our past. Yet there are stories here of a time and of the people who lived in it. Stories of their trials and triumphs; their mistakes and the lessons learned. Unfortunately, most believe that we have evolved beyond anything the past can teach us. What they fail to realize is that while technology, knowledge, and our quality of life has greatly improved our human frailties remain the same.

2011-09-18T22:20:00.000-04:00

There is Always an Exception to the Rule
OK, not a lot of hidden meaning here. Heavily photo shopped--cropped, colored, contrasted, highlighted, sharpened, and dry brushed. Just liked the shot so sue me.........But wait.... now that I think (see above) about it I see that I have created art from art (note sign in window) from a mundane reality. Boy that is deep and full of...................

2011-09-18T22:06:00.002-04:00

"Street Numbers? Street Numbers? We Don't Need No Stikin Street Numbers....."
Coles Point, VA-- Who needs numbers when a name on a sign tacked to a tree will do. As folksy and quaint as this may look it doesn't help your insurance adjuster (that be me) who has to drive around for about half an hour trying to locate you and not being able to reach you by phone for directions because you're outside enjoying the breeze coming off the river.

2011-09-18T21:47:00.001-04:00

Epicenter--Puts Mineral on the Map
Mineral, VA--Being at the epicenter of an earthquake felt from Florida to Canada is one way to get noticed. On August 23rd at 1:51:04pm a 5.8 magnitude earthquake gave Mineral it's, "15 minutes of fame." Visiting the area a fews days later it looked like the town's new found fame had not gone to anyones' head.

Downtown Mineral. All the brinck buildings to the right sustained some damage requiring a lane closure. You can see workers on the white building to the right foreground.........

A bad day for chimney's. Here Mother Nature scored a Hat Trick taking out three chimney's on the same house.........

The top of the brick facade of this downtown building came down and other sections pulled away. This business will be closed for a while but..........................

.....adversity can and is overcome. The sign on the supports holding up the front wall of Main Street Plumbing announces, "Open for Business."

2011-09-18T21:18:00.000-04:00

Yes We Can Learn from the Past..............
Rt. 20, Orange, VA--Russia, 1787, Grigory Potemkin, one of Catherine the Great's ministers, is alleged to have build fake villages along the Dnieper River to impress the Empress with the value of the newly conquered lands. Taking a lesson from this endeavor of the past the town of Orange has constructed their own, "Potemkin Village" (and I must say it has the village look) to mask and old junk yard on the way into town. The question to be asked is when the site is developed in the future will it look as nice as it does now?

2011-09-18T20:56:00.001-04:00

You Know When Your Really in the Country When.........
Lost in Louisa County--Dogs in the country are more than just pets they are members of the family. A show of hands please....How many think a dog house built like the family mansion with a TV antena is going a bit too far? Then again it could be a very small "man cave." Gives a whole new meaning to being in the doghouse. Have to say the pig weather vane on the water faucet is a nice touch.

2011-09-18T20:48:00.000-04:00

A Perplexing Question?
Westmoreland County--So old cars and or trucks sitting in the front yard, some on blocks, is considered a good indicator that there are rednecks about. So what does a bunch of old tractors in the front yard, with one on blocks, mean? I went on three search sites with: old tractors + front yard + on blocks + meaning, and got nowhere. Not even a Wikipedia entry! Could this be the question that stumps the internet?

2011-09-18T20:34:00.000-04:00

A Different Perspective.............
Rt. 17, Caroline County--To most this is one of those idyllic country road scenes (Cue John Denver now). But let's take a closer look......at the deer crossing sign. Note the bullet damage.....While I had high apptitude scores in the areas of math and science during my scholastic career neither topic ever held much interest for me. Hard to work either topic into a conversation at a cocktail party. So I will defer to all those who embrace the sciences (and therefore are not very interesting to talk to at cocktail parties) and ask whether or not a deer is smart enough to take the hint that this may not be the best place to cross the road?

2011-09-18T20:18:00.001-04:00

The End of the Road--A Previous Tantrum by Mother Nature
Falmouth, VA--This is the end of the old Rt. 1. Beyond the trees is the Rappahannock River and at one time this road spanned the river. On the other side one would have seen fields in front of them as Rt. 1 went off to the left and continued through the heart of downtown Fredericksburg. Here is what the bridge looked like in its heyday in the 1930's.......

.........Then on April 26, 1937 the Rappahannock, flowing 39.1 feet above its normal level, washed out a section of the bridge.........

It was repaired but because Rt. 1 was the only major north/south road on the east coast it was decided to build a stronger and higher bridge over the Rappahannock which was opened in 1943 and is still in use today.

Thanks to former Mayor Bill Beck for allowing me access to his extensive Fredericksburg postcard collection.

2011-09-18T19:52:00.000-04:00

Not Much of A Picture...........
We have all run across a picture like this one while going through family albums. Looking at such an ordinary scene most would make a cursory effort to identify the individual then put it aside and search for the more interesting scenes. For others looking at this photo they wonder why such a seemingly ordinary photo was taken? What is the story behind the picture?

Only a few moments before my youngest, Joshua, shook my hand, gave his mother a final hug goodbye and turned to walk back to his new home on the campus of James Madison University. It marked the end of the beginning.

My role as a parent is coming to an end. At this moment the realization comes that my relationship with my son has forever changed. I will no longer scold or become angry with him. I can only be disappointed. I will no longer be happy for him. I will be proud of him. For he now controls his destiny and I am a bystander. Offering support and advise when asked but the final decisions will rests with him.

And as my son walked away I also have to admit being a bit envious. I remembered a similar moment in my life. The feeling of apprehension and exhilaration as one steps off to create a life of their own.

......listening to all the things you can't hear, and not bothering.

2011-06-19T14:42:00.001-04:00

Don't underestimate the value of Doing Nothing, of just going along, listening to all the things you can't hear, and not bothering.

Winnie the Pooh

WE shall take the sage advice of that great philosopher of life Winnie the Pooh and not clutter or minds with thoughts of things to do, or try to place meaning on things, or endeavor to make a point. Today, with a little help from W.B Yeats we shall just enjoy the moment. Some random shots of my recent travels...........

I WENT out to the hazel wood,

Because a fire was in my head,

2011-06-19T14:35:00.002-04:00

And cut and peeled a hazel wand,
And hooked a berry to a thread;

2011-06-19T14:30:00.000-04:00

And when white moths were on the wing,
And moth-like stars were flickering out,

2011-06-19T14:19:00.002-04:00

I dropped the berry in a stream
And caught a little silver trout.

2011-06-19T14:11:00.002-04:00

When I had laid it on the floor
I went to blow the fire a-flame,

2011-06-19T14:09:00.001-04:00

But something rustled on the floor,

And someone called me by my name:

2011-06-19T14:06:00.002-04:00

It had become a glimmering girl
With apple blossom in her hair

2011-06-19T13:59:00.002-04:00

Who called me by my name and ran
And faded through the brightening air.

2011-06-19T13:57:00.002-04:00

Though I am old with wandering
Through hollow lands and hilly lands,

2011-06-19T13:56:00.000-04:00

I will find out where she has gone,
And kiss her lips and take her hands;

2011-06-19T13:49:00.003-04:00

And walk among long dappled grass,

And pluck till time and times are done

2011-06-19T13:43:00.005-04:00

The silver apples of the moon,

The golden apples of the sun.

Practice What You Preach.......

2011-05-22T15:05:00.001-04:00

"Matt, I agree with your concern about the courts issue. And admire your dogged efforts to shine the light of day on council’s sneaky actions. But, seriously man you need to get a life. You are blogging here and elsewhere on this issue 24/7 – don’t you have a stamp collection that needs attention or something?"

Gramps

Comment on Free Lance Star Blog

May 16, 2011 1:37pm

"Hey, Rube!" carnival workers used to holler when they needed reinforcements in a melee with townspeople. Mr. Kelly has hollered it for all he's worth for months, but the Bearded Lady and the Indian Rubber Man have not rallied."

Free Lance Star Editorial

May 20, 2011

Some people need gentle reminders to step back, take a deep breath, and take a look around. In fact, one of the reasons for this blog is to make that exact point. As the quotes above suggest I need to practice what I preach. Got a little too focused and lost perspective. Whether intentional or not both Gramps and the Free Lance-Star Editorial Board brought this lesson home with the proverbial baseball bat to the side to the head. Life is too short to waste . There are new discoveries to be made, moments to experiences, people to meet, and relationships to nurture. So let's get back on the road........................

A Parental Moment..........

The last time my eldest son appeared on this site he was behind a 50 cal. on a humvee in Iraq. On Mother's Day weekend he received his degree in Criminal Justice from Methodist University. His older sister, single mother of three, received two degrees in Biochemistry from Minnesota Sate the following weekend. And finally our youngest Josh will be leaving for James Madison University in August where he plans to major in music.....If you can call heavy metal music. Three months away from an empty nest and the moment when my wife and I look at each other and say, "What now?"

2011-05-22T14:58:00.000-04:00

May My Garmin Burn In Hell!

Madison Co. VA--My Garmin said, "turn right here," so I did. It is not unusual in rural Virginia to find yourself on gravel or dirt roads. But in this case I'd have to say without exaggeration that this road ranks in the top 100 of The World's Most Dangerous Roads. Actually considered sending in a suggestion for them to film a segment on this piece of Johnson Road. Is that a smirk I see? Hey, quit with the rolling of the eyes!

I'm driving a 2010 Ford Fusion which does not have big road clearance. Actually the worst section of the road starts after the next rise. But because I had a death grip on the steering wheel as I drove through small lakes and clay morasses while also trying to avoid foot deep ruts as my wheels spun and the steering wheel kept trying to jerk me to the left or right, I didn't think much for reaching over to get my camera. The "high point" of this adventure came as I glanced back up from my (expletive deleted) Garmin which was telling me I still had another 1.5 miles to go and I saw a tree had fallen across the road. Then I had a fun time backing up about 100 yards to a point where I could turn around.

I made it back to where I had started. Got out of the car, Waited about five minutes to get some circulation back in my hands and then took the picture. I later discovered that if I had continued on Rt. 522 I would have still reached my destination while only having to drive another mile!

2011-05-22T14:55:00.000-04:00

HORNY COWS, HER WORDS NOT MINE

Orange Co.-- I had arrived to inspect damage to a barn roof. I was told by the matronly insured that the damage was on the pasture side of the barn and I needed to watch out for the "horny cows." While most of my experience with bovines usual involved a bottle of A-1 steak sauce this was not my first encounter with cows. However it was to be my first experience with "horny cows." (Start humming the theme to "Jaws" here) As I crossed under the fence I noticed that 1) these were in fact horny cows and 2) they all seemed to be staring at me. Then as I took a few steps forward to try and get a look at the barn roof the "horny cows" took a few steps towards me. As I took a step the horny cows took a step and in about five more steps we were going to be up close and personal. I began to get this feeling that I would be really pressing my luck if I turner my back on a bunch of "horny cows" (Again her words not mine). So I decided to walk backwards, back under the fence, and took my photos from inside the barn. Sorry boss.

2011-05-22T14:51:00.000-04:00

God I Love Rural Virginia!

Locust Dale, VA on Rt. 15 in Madison County. It has it all--An old boarded up building, a beat-up trailer for a post office and a two door outhouse in the parking lot! Who could ask for more. God's country.

2011-05-22T14:47:00.001-04:00

Great Time At A Piano Bar....I Think

Orlando, FL--During a trip to Florida to see the Daytona 500 my friends and I (guy road trip) stopped in a local piano bar. Enjoyed it quite a bit but this was the fifth bar we had been to that day. Thought I would pass on few tips to help you enjoy your experience should you find yourself stumbling into a piano bar:

1. Never hurt to start with the old standard. Not that it's really going to do any good. No that's not Angelina Jolie or Brad Pitt making eyes at you from across the room.

2. If you are not a Billy Joel fan don't go in. You will hear Piano Man and a lot more.

3. Don't, I repeat, don't request Guns N Roses "November Rain" or anything by Lady GaGa.

4. Alcohol affects your musical judgment too.

5. Pace yourself. One song and one dollar per napkin. Sending up 5 napkins with four songs on each and a lot of dollar bills isn't going to get your songs played any faster. (See #4 above, delete "musical")

6. The song you really want to hear will be played while you are in the bathroom.

7. Ignore rule #4 in one respect. The people you are sitting with really can't sing. I have proof but they won't let me post it.

2011-05-22T14:42:00.002-04:00

Architecture and Speed--It will All Make Sense

Orlando FL--The main drag in front of our hotel. Eight years as an elected official changes you. You see the world in a different light. To most of you this is a rather mundane photo of a mundane street scene in Orlando. Now let's take a look at it through my eyes. Note the sign. How in the heck do you come up with a $262.00 fine for running a stop sign. I Google searched this and came up empty. Also note that the amount on the sign can be switched out. That does not bode well for local residents. Elected officials have a real problem reducing numbers.

Now let's look at the hotel across the street. I bare the scars from what is fondly referred to in our city as the third Battle of Fredericksburg--The construction of a downtown hotel. While you may be wondering what the pineapple is made of I've broken out in a sweat and am having flashbacks about EFIS, scale and massing, and downtown character. And I forgot the prozac in my room!

2011-05-22T14:39:00.000-04:00

Need More Gas Pumps

Louisa, VA--No I have not lost my fascination with abandoned gas pumps. What makes this pair all the more fascinating is that they are located on a rural dead-end road with no signs of a building structure nearby. The pumps are set at a price of 31 cents a gallon which takes us back to around 1957. For those economist among us based on the rate of inflation the comparable price would be around $2.41. Some fun facts about 1957:

Average cost of a house was $18,000.00. A car $2,100.00

Some music chart toppers were, Pat Boone, Jonny Mathis, Tab Hunter...

The Surgeon General links cigarette smoking to lung cancer

FORTRAN (computer language) is introduced

Milwaukee Brewers won the World Series

Yours truly wasn't born yet.

2011-05-22T14:35:00.000-04:00

English Gardens vs. Continental Gardens, Democracy vs. Totalitarianism

Orange, VA--Ah the idyllic spring day on the back roads of Virginia. Isn't nature wonderful! Note the beautiful carpet of little purple weedy things. The English have it right, why mess with mother nature. Just sit back and let it happen. Not like those high brow continentals with their formal well manicured gardens. Faux nature that's what it is! And such gardens perpetuated serfdom, servitude, and the bondage of the masses. How undemocratic. And this oppressive practice continues to this day. Only the names have changed. Today servants are called husbands and serfs are called teenagers. And my last serf, I mean teenager, is leaving in three months! Dandelions and little purple weedy things are mother nature's way of adding a little color to our lives. Why must we fight mother nature? Its undemocratic and unnatural. Sometime I wish we were still the colonies. Rule Britannia.

2011-05-22T14:31:00.002-04:00

A Guy Moment.......

Ladies if I may have a moment alone with the guys.............Picture this--Laid back with your feet up on your barber's chair with remote in hand and the big plasma screen in front of you. A brief turn in the chair and there is a small refrigerator within easy reach filled with (insert preferred beer here. If your thinking either wine or soda please leave the room.). You place the cold one on a small metal dentist table attached to one arm of the chair. On a similar table on the other arm sits your munchies of choice........

OK the chair doesn't fit with the room decor and the red leather clashes with all the other colors in the room but we can dream can't we? And maybe, just maybe, some brave soul will grab for his dream. And though he may not succeed, and suffer the consequences of his actions, he could inspire others and someday this dream will be a reality.

This barber's chair could have been the one. It could have been some guys chance at immortality. A moment of silence please to mourn this lost opportunity (shed tear here).

2011-05-22T14:23:00.000-04:00

Don't See This Everyday
Madison County off Rt. 522--This area had some serious brush fires recently. This is actually a house not too far behind me. It was saved when a fire department tanker truck got stuck at the back of the house. The owner and his son continued to operate it till it ran out of water. No damage to the house.

For The Times They Are A-Changin'.

2011-01-21T00:12:00.009-05:00

Come gather 'round people
Wherever you roam
And admit that the waters
Around you have grown
And accept it that soon
You'll be drenched to the bone
If your time to you
Is worth savin'
Then you better start swimmin'
Or you'll sink like a stone
For the times they are a-changin'.

Bob Dylan

In 1975 I brought a Texas Instruments SR-22 calculator to my high school chemistry class to use during a test. My fellow students were none too pleased when our teacher, Mr. Maskalenko, said I could use it. Holding up a slide rule; which he had spent weeks teaching us how to use, he pronounced in an assured, and rather loud voice to be heard over the din, that there was no difference between my SR-22 and the side rule the other students had.

Not that the SR-22 really did me much good. I got a B in chemistry only after promising Mr. Maskalenko that I would take as few science and math classes as possible in college. I kept the promise taking only math 101 (beginning with long division and sets) and statistics (lost 10 points on a test when I wrote sadistics on the top of the page). But I digress.

The point is, I didn't realize it at the moment, and for years to come, thanks to a whole lot of college parties, getting married, trying to find a job, raising children, a dog, three cats......., that day in 1975 marked the end of the slide rule and the beginnings of a technological revolution. The times they were a-changin.

My youngest, Joshua (still annoys him when I use him in a post. For new parents fear not! Your opportunity to drive your kids nuts will come. Suggestion-- bringing crayons or markers when you visit the grandchildren-- they will know what to do.), who is now where I was in 1975(to his credit with better grades), wouldn't recognize a slide rule, or eight-track tape, LPs, cassette tape, floppy disc, moon pies, typewriter, Cherry Smash, dial-up phones, etc. etc....if his life depended on it.

Our knowledge of the world around us and the resulting advancements in technology is growing exponentially. It was noted in a recent article that, " It is estimated that a week’s worth of New York Time’s contains more information than a person was likely to come across in a lifetime in the 18th century. It is estimated that 40 exabytes (4.0 X 10 to the 19th power) of unique new information will be generated worldwide this year. That is more than in the previous 5,000 years." I can't imagine what my grandchildren will have to know when they go to high school.

I have a set of encyclopedias published in 1916. There are almost 5-pages dedicated to the steam engine with diagrams. On any page I can learn about someone, something, or some event which is not even a footnote today. Knowing that we cannot be expected to keep up with the growth of knowledge it will be interesting to see what we as a society decide is important to know and what is not. That is something scary to contemplate. So we won't., Instead of looking forward let's take a look back . I thought it would be interesting to pull off the road of knowledge and take a peek in the rear view mirror to see how far we have come...........................

For The Times They Are A-Changin'

I never pass up an opportunity to inspect an abandoned gas station. Love to check to see what the gas price was when the station sold its last gallon of gas. This particular station is in King George. This pump could not register a price per gallon higher than .99 9/10. The cost per gallon shown is 36 cents. The last time the price of a gallon of gas was at this level was 1970. So lets throw out a few fun facts about 1970--

Avg cost of home-- $23,400.00
Avg. income-- $ 9,350.00
Avg. Cost for car-- $ 3,900.00
Top Movie --M*A*S*H
Top Song-- Bridge Over Troubled Waters

2011-01-20T23:40:00.003-05:00

A Painful Reminder
One of my favorite quotes is from C.S. Lewis who said, "We all want progress, but if you're on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive."

Case in point. In the 50s we all (those of us around then anyway) marveled at the interstate highway system that stretched across this great land. The automobile was king and passenger rail became thing of the past. Rail was relegated to moving freight. Now lets jump ahead 50 years. Our highways are parking lots, in disrepair, and becoming more expensive to build and maintain. So we make our about-turn and see the advantages of rail in moving large numbers of people....again. But now the railroads, mostly in private hands, are doing quite well in the freight business in part because of government subsidies. So well that they would rather not take up valuable time and track space with passenger trains.

If I am not mistaken this is a railroad bridge, located just off of Rt. 3 in King George,built for the Central Virginia Railroad. This section of the line was not completed because the company went belly up.

2011-01-20T23:20:00.004-05:00

So What Does This Have To Do With Knowledge And Technology?

To be truthful I took this shot because I liked the setting and the colors. Having said that there is a tie in to the subject at hand. And in this case it proves that a little knowledge is not always a good thing. This house has a stucco finish. Another reason for the photo is that you don't see too many of these type of buildings anymore. However, a decade or so back there was a demand for this type of exterior finish and the Exterior Insulation and Finishing System (EFIS) was born. When installed all connection points were caulked to ensure its insulation value. However, moisture will finds its way in. Especially during very humid Virginia Summers. With EFIS once the moisture got in it could not find it's way out. The result was mold and rotten framing. Actually inspected a house where the only thing holding it up was the exterior EFIS boards. The moral of the story is that technology can still bite you in the (expletive deleted).

2011-01-20T23:15:00.003-05:00

OK, OK It Doesn't Fit So Sue Me.
I had to cross over barbwire, dodge cow pies, slide down a ravine, push aside thorn bushes and trudge through a stream to get this shot so I'm going to use it Damn it! No I can't tie this into our search for knowledge or the marvels of technology I just thought it would be a good shot. So shut up and enjoy it.

2011-01-20T22:57:00.004-05:00

What A Difference a Century Can Make
This tractor in Culpeper County had its heyday in the late teens early 20s of the last century. In 1900 the average yield for corn per acre was 29 bushels. In the year 2000 the average had risen to 145 bushels an acre. And as the world population continues to rise so will the need to continue to increase yields. Thus one of the dilemmas of our age--things like pesticides, fertilizers and erosion from farming are causing one set of problems yet we need them to keep everyone fed. Where do we go from here? Guess we have some more learning to do? Do hope an exabyte or two this year will get us moving in the right direction.

2011-01-20T22:25:00.005-05:00

Where Will We Be A Hundred Years From Now?
Today religion is seen as superstitious, archaic and the cause of suffering, bigotry, and hate. Yet in the past it was these same teachings, be it the Bible, the Koran, or the Torah that taught us that compassion, not might, should be the basis of civilization. Teachings that have inspired us and gives purpose to our lives. The teachings have not changed we have. We, not religion, are the architects of our problems. It seems the more we learn the more we question our faith, turning to ourselves for answers, and the message of our faith fades from memory. We are fixated on knowing and seem to have little patience for believing. Wonder where that is going to get us?

2011-01-20T22:08:00.004-05:00

There will Always Be Constants in the Universe.

While our knowledge may increase by leaps and bounds, and we marvel almost everyday at the latest technological advancements, it is still a given that some things will never change. One of the constants of the universe is that bureaucracy is the enemy of progress. And in the great Commonwealth of Virginia there is no greater example of this than the Virginia Department of Transportation. We may expand our minds, devise new cures, defeat hunger, and spread knowledge to the smallest corners of the world: but we are still going to to be sitting in traffic. A one-lane bridge in Hanover County.

2011-01-20T21:58:00.003-05:00

Robbie(?) Stubbs, Born Oct. 4, 1907; Died July 7, 1955
An unusual headstone in that it is made of poured cement. It was sitting in the back of a small church cemetery in Spotsylvania. I know there is a story here but it will have to wait for another day. What we can do is take a look at what was going on in 1955-

--1st presidential news conference filmed for TV (Eisenhower).
--The minimum wage is raised from 75 cents to $1 an hour.
--Tappan sells 1st microwave oven.
--1st World Series color TV broadcast on NBC-TV (New York Yankees beat Dodgers).
--Marian Anderson becomes 1st black singer to perform at Met (New York City)

2011-01-20T21:48:00.002-05:00

An Interesting Discovery in Madison County.
Another opportunity for me to enlighten you with another fun fact that will make you the life of the cocktail party! Did you know that British inventor, James Sharp patented a gas oven in 1826? The first semi-successful gas oven to appear on the market. Pictured here rusting away in an old barn was state of the art in the 20s and 30s. It's a Wincroft combination wood/gas stove. You can still see some of the porcelain finish which was a big technological leap forward making the stove easier for the little lady to clean.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! (With No Apologies)

2010-12-18T22:01:00.006-05:00

It is time that I put childish ways behind me. I promise it shant last long. Give me a moment while I take off my dark glasses, headgear, pocket my cigar and grab the old soapbox and climb aboard. Ready, set, rant......OK enough with the "Happy Holidays" crap! I want to celebrate Christmas!

We are turning this season into a generic, one size fits all celebration of what? Can someone explain it to me? What are we celebrating? What is the meaning behind "Happy Holidays?" In the effort to be non-controversial, inoffensive, (insert favorite PC phrase here) we have not only stripped away the name of Christmas but we have also stripped away its meaning.

I acknowledge there are other beliefs other than my own and I do respect them. And in turn, I would ask that my beliefs be respected. I was brought up to say thank-you to anyone who prayed for my well being, and that of my family, no matter to whom they prayed to. Today, I am told I am offending someone when I pray for them in the name of the God I believe in. Diversity of ideas and beliefs are a gift not a curse. We should learn from this diversity not try to hide it away.

Christmas acknowledges the birth of Christ and through the story of his life and sacrifice, we see the person we should be striving to be--forgiving, compassionate, patient, and humble. Putting the needs of others before ourselves, treating others as we would expect to be treated. Traits, frankly, that run contrary to our human nature which means we have to work hard at it and must acknowledge that we will sometimes fail. And who wants to do that?

So today, we take the message out of the celebration so we don't have to be reminded of our human frailties and our obligations towards our fellow man. Instead we can feel good about ourselves by wrapping a few gifts for family and friends. Our only challenge is to sit in traffic a bit and suffer the inconvenience of standing in line at the post office. As for our obligation to the rest of humanity dropping some loose change into a kettle can cover that.

I know it's a lot of work and frustration when faced with being a better person. So how is acknowledging this message considered a celebration? We are celebrating a gift from God which inspires us to rise above our human frailties. And that we are forgiven if we sometime fail which should encourage us both to be more forgiving ourselves and not allow our own failures to divert us from our task.

In the spirit of the Christmas season I have posted the original verses of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem (and in edited form--a carol) "Christmas Bells" written in December of 1863 during the American Civil War. I would call your attention to the last three verses. As in 1863, so it is today, there is no "Peace on Earth." But with some effort, hope, and a little faith, each of us can help get us a little closer to achieving that dream....If we take to heart the true meaning of the Christmas season. Thus endeth the sermon.....

OK the soapbox has been stowed, the headgear and glasses are back in place and I'm taking my cigar back out of my pocket. Some photos of the season and a few fun Christmas facts you can amaze your friends with as you make the Christmas Party circuit..........Oh, and I almost forgot...from the Kelly family to yours we wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy, safe, and prosperous New Year........."God bless us every one!"

" Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts."

I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

In 1850 Richard Stoors Willis introduced one of the first American Christmas carols, "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear." There soon followed other now popular carols--"Oh Little Town of Bethlehem", "Away in the Manger", "I heard the Bells on Christmas Day" and "We Three Kings."

2010-12-18T21:58:00.001-05:00

"To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas."

And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along
The unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

The first documented Christmas tree sale was in New York in 1851. Catskill woodsman Mark Carr and his son sold them for a dollar a piece at the corner of Vessey and Greenwich Streets.

2010-12-18T21:56:00.001-05:00

"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful."

Till, ringing, singing on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime
A chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

On Christmas Eve in 1822 Dr. Clement Moore who was known for writing, A Compendious Lexicon of the Hebrew Language, a biography of the King of Albania, and translated a French Treatise on Sheep Raising, wrote a poem for his children which began, "Twas a night before Christmas..." Embarrassed by its popularity he would not acknowledge writing it until 1838.

2010-12-18T21:52:00.001-05:00

"The earth has grown old with its burden of care, But at Christmas it always is young...."

Then from each black accursed mouth
The cannon thundered in the South,
And with the sound
The carols drowned
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

In the early nineteenth century, American slaves didn't have to work as long as the Yule log burned, so they would choose the biggest, greenest log they could find. If they did have to work while it burned their master had to pay them for the work.

2010-12-18T21:50:00.001-05:00

"Greater love hath no man, than a man should give up his life for his friends. "

It was as if an earthquake rent
The hearth-stones of a continent,
And made forlorn
The households born
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Holly & Evergreens--Holly leaves represent Jesus' crown of thorns, while their berries represented the drops of blood shed for humanity's salvation. Evergreens represent eternal life.

2010-12-18T21:46:00.002-05:00

"Christmas began in the heart of God. It is completed only when it reaches the heart of man."

And in despair I bowed my head;
“There is no peace on earth,” I said;
“For hate is strong,
And mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!”

In 1659, a ban on celebrating Christmas went into effect in the colony of Massachusetts. The General Court banned the celebration of Christmas and other such holidays at the same time it banned gambling and other lawless behavior, grouping all such behaviors together. The court placed a fine of five shillings on anyone caught feasting or celebrating the holiday in another manner. The ban would not be lifted until 1681

2010-12-18T21:40:00.003-05:00

" I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
“God is not dead; nor doth he sleep!
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good-will to men!”

The first drawing done of Santa Claus appeared on the cover of the January 1, 1863 edition of Harper's Weekly. Santa was shown wearing a coat of stars on a blue field and his paints with red and white stripes handing presents out to Union soldiers. It was done by Thomas Nast who would also later give us the symbols of the donkey and the elephant for the Democrat and Republican parties. In 1866 Nast would draw Santa in his traditional red and white garb so that no nation could claim him as their own.

Black Friday--A Different Perspective

2010-11-28T20:20:00.004-05:00

"Once again we find ourselves enmeshed in the Holiday Season, that very special time of year when we join with our loved ones in sharing centuries-old traditions such as trying to find a parking space at the mall. We traditionally do this in my family by driving around the parking lot until we see a shopper emerge from the mall, then we follow her, in very much the same spirit as the Three Wise Men, who 2,000 years ago followed a star, week after week, until it led them to a parking space."
Dave Barry

I am going to have to pay a little closer attention to those calendar memos I periodically received from home office. And then again...maybe not. Case in point Friday morning. While many were checking their credit card limits, firmly securing elbow pads (studs or spikes optional), girding (protecting) their loins and preparing for battle on the roads, in the parking lots, and in the aisles of their favorite retail Mecca I was looking at a less exciting and dangerous day on the road earning my paycheck. Later that afternoon when I called home office regarding a coverage issue I learned from the office answering machine that I had the day off. I have to say that on this occasion my typically male--What me ask for directions? Reading manuals (or memos) takes away the excitement of discovery--attitude actually paid off. I bet had had a much nicer day than most...........................

Truly The Road Less Traveled

This is a typical road on which I traveled on Black Friday. Note that there is not a car, traffic signal, speed limit sign, billboard, turn lane, or human being in sight. I truly enjoyed my day on the road.

2010-11-28T20:12:00.003-05:00

I've Got Dibs................
Orange County--Large yard and a wrap around front porch on a country road. Add a porch swing and a cooler and some munches and I'll be ready to sit back and watch the world go by. Hey Dan, it's a little bit bigger yard with a few more leaves to rake but I think you can manage.

2010-11-28T20:02:00.002-05:00

A Question Looking for an Answer......

Rt. 3, Spotsylvania County--Monument to the 154th New York State Volunteers. This commemorates actions of the regiment at the Battle of Chancellorsville. I've checked both the regiment's history and the unit's roster to determine the German connection--Note German flag. While there were members of the 154th born in Germany there were actually more Irish born members in the regiment. So one has to wonder what is with the German flag?

2010-11-28T19:51:00.002-05:00

No Parking Problem Here
Somerville, Fauquier County--This is it! The local general store and post office. In the background is the feed store. Took a moment to check for moon pies and cherry smash but had to settle for a Coke and some chips. Didn't have to wait in line though. In and out in 10 minutes with no problems with parking or back-up at the intersection.

2010-11-28T19:26:00.003-05:00

A Different View
Madison County--While many of you were staring at the back end of an SUV; or finding yourself trapped in the household cleaning supplies isle choking in a haze of cheap perfume and aftershave, battered and bruised after another failed attempt to reach the men's clothing department; I was enjoying the view of the Virginia countryside void of the struggling masses.

2010-11-28T19:00:00.007-05:00

The History They Could Tell.

"These tractors had served some farmer faithfully and well,

had helped him plant his crops, his sweat, his family's dreams

into the ground. Generations of farm history they could tell.

But at auction, sentimental value has no worth it seems...."

A glimpse of a simpler time and a beacon that shows us how far we have come. Sometimes I wonder what we left behind in our rush towards progress?

2010-11-28T18:52:00.003-05:00

Old Virginia Mansion
Madison County--Rural Virginia is dotted with the mansions of old dating back to the 18th century. And in this particular case a cast-iron urn just as impressive as the house itself.

2010-11-28T17:56:00.002-05:00

......And the Other Kind of Mansions
Orange Co.--And beside the mansions of old can sometimes be found a different kind of mansion of smaller size and less grandeur but with an equally impressive entry way.

2010-11-28T17:27:00.003-05:00

A Little Reminder
Orange Co.--One of many makeshift memorials along the back roads of Virginia. During this season we can get caught up in commercial frenzy trying to prove our love for one another with material things. Life is short. Just taking time to enjoy family and friends is a gift which is undervalued and too often take for granted until it is too late. Take a moment and put aside the perceived cares and priorities of the day and spend some time reacquainting yourself with those around you.

2010-11-28T17:20:00.003-05:00

It Has Been A While..............
....since I have posted a photos of a real fixer upper opportunity. This little gem is located in Orange County.

2010-11-28T17:03:00.002-05:00

Time For A Mid-Life Crisis.....

Near Midland--Don't know what make or model it is (If it has a heater and a radio I'm happy); but its small, its red, and it exudes speed. My guess would be that most self-respecting middle-aged men would be proud to have this as the symbol of their mid-life crisis. Speaking as one who has never creased the pages of an issue of Car & Driver or Motor Trend what first caught my attention were the two old gravity feed gas pumps in the background.

THE BIVOUAC OF THE DEAD

2010-11-07T16:38:00.006-05:00

"The memories of the blissful moments I have spent with you come creeping over me, and I feel most gratified to God and to you that I have enjoyed them so long. And hard it is for me to give them up and burn to ashes the hopes of future years, when God willing, we might still have lived and loved together and seen our sons grow up to honorable manhood around us. I have, I know, but few and small claims upon Divine Providence, but something whispers to me—perhaps it is the wafted prayer of my little Edgar—that I shall return to my loved ones unharmed. If I do not, my dear Sarah, never forget how much I love you, and when my last breath escapes me on the battlefield, it will whisper your name."

Capt. Sullivan Ballou, 2nd RI Vols.
Letter to his wife July 14, 1861.
Died of Wounds received at Manassas July 28, 1861

Another Veteran's Day approaches and for those who take a moment to mark the occasion they will again hear the words--dedication, sacrifice and suffering. Yet for many those words cannot be fully understood. We who have not been called upon to endure the horrors of battle cannot comprehend the fear, privations, aguish, pain, and loss that such an experience entails. But while we may never comprehend, we must acknowledge what others have gone through on our behalf. Not just by listening to the words; but by our own actions both honor and advance the principles for which they fought.

Today I do not look beyond my own backyard to try and understand what lay behind the words-- dedication, sacrifice and suffering. Every day on our way to work, to school, to shop, or on to our favorite watering hole; we pass little reminders of what those words mean. Acknowledging the limits of my own experiences I shall let those who have stood in harm's way speak to us. And from their words and actions I hope we all have a better understanding of their sacrifices and also an understanding of our obligation to ensure that they were not in vain........

...Closed the Mouth of this Vast and Awful Tomb.

Fredericksburg National Cemetery--

"the bodies of these poor fellows, stripped nearly naked, were gathered in huge mounds around the pit, and tumbled neck and heal into it: the dull thud of corpses falling on corpses coming from the depths of the hole until the solid mass of human flesh reaches near the surface, when a covering of logs, chalk, and mud closed the mouth of this vast and awful tomb."

The muffled drum's sad roll has beat
The soldier's last Tattoo;No more on life's parade shall meet
That brave and fallen few.
On Fame's eternal camping ground
Their silent tents are spread,
And glory guards, with solemn round
The bivouac of the dead.

2010-11-07T16:34:00.002-05:00

...Bounced Through Our Ranks Like Rubber Balls.

Slaughter Pen Farm, Fredericksburg--
"cannon balls were flying over and among us all the time, killing men and horses and tearing up the ground all around us." The adjutant of the Second Reserves, Evan M. Woodward, recalled that many of the missiles, "plowed up the earth in deep furrows, or went howling and bursting over our heads, filling the air with iron hail and sulphur." Some of the shots landed among the Pennsylvania Reserves and kicked up spigots of mud "higher than the tallest tree," while others bounced through the ranks like grotesque rubber balls."

No rumour of the foe's advance
Now swells upon the wind;
No troubled thought at midnight haunts
Of loved ones left behind.
No vision of the morrow's strife
The warrior's dream alarms;
No braying horn, nor screaming fife,
At dawn shall call to arms.

2010-11-07T16:30:00.001-05:00

...Knew it is Surley as Though I Culd Read His Thoughts.
Tapp Farm, Wilderness Battlefield, Spotsylvania--

"I saw many wounded soldiers in the Wilderness who hung on to their rifles, and whose intention was clearly stamped on their pallid faces. I saw one man, both of whose legs were broken, lying on the ground with his cocked rifle by his side and his ramrod in his hand, and his eyes set on the front. I knew he meant to kill himself in case of fire—knew it is surely as though I could read his thoughts."

Their shivered swords are red with rust,
Their plumed heads are bowed;
Their haughty banner, trailed in dust,
Is now their martial shroud.
And plenteous funeral tears have washed
The red stains from each brow;
And the proud forms, by battle gashed,
Are free from anguish now.

2010-11-07T16:27:00.002-05:00

I Continued in the Tallest Running Match of My Life.
Motts Run, Chancellorsville, Spotsylvania--

"At about the same time I felt that some part of my accouterment on the left side had given way; instinctively grasping for whatever it might be, I caught the straps of a leather pouch and of a haversack in my left hand, they had both been severed by a bullet, without halting, I continued in the tallest running match of my life, seemingly swinging my booty, i.e. my own provisions, in triumph, while the sword, in my right in its gyrations seemed thirsting for blood and the metal scabbard on my left was indented and bent by another bullet."

The neighing troop, the flashing blade,
The bugle's stirring blast,
The charge, the dreadful cannonade,
The din and shouts are past;
Nor war's wild note, nor glory's peal,
Shall thrill with fierce delight;
Those breasts that never more may feel
The rapture of the fight.

2010-11-07T16:23:00.001-05:00

....When Others Would Take Their Places.

Bloody Angle, Spotsylvania--
"Nothing but the piled up logs of breastworks separated the combatants. Our men would reach over the logs and fire into the faces of the enemy, would stab over with their bayonets; many were shot and stabbed through crevices and holes between logs; men mounted the works and with muskets rapidly handed them kept up a continuous fire until they were shot down, when others would take their places."

Like the fierce Northern hurricane
That sweeps the great plateau,
Flushed with triumph, yet to gain,
Come down the serried foe;
Who heard the thunder of the fray
Break o'er the field beneath,
Knew the watchword of the day
Was "Victory or death!"

2010-11-07T16:19:00.002-05:00

Late in the Afternoon of This Day.....

Railroad cut, Wilderness Battlefield, Spotsylvania--
"Late in the afternoon of this day I went among the wounded of the Third Regiment South Carolina Volunteers and of the Yankees who had fallen into our hands. As usual on such occasions groans and cries met me from every side. I found Col. James Nance, my old school mate, and Col. Gaillard of Fairfield lying side by side in death. Near them lay Warren Peterson, with a shattered thighbone, and still others who were my friends."

Long had the doubtful conflict raged
O'er all that stricken plain,
For never fiercer fight had waged
The vengeful blood of Spain;
And still the storm of battle blew,
Still swelled the glory tide;
Not long, our stout old Chieftain knew,
Such odds his strength could bide.

2010-11-07T16:16:00.001-05:00

....but it is a Line of Dead Men.

The Stonewall, Fredericksburg--
"Owen reached the Stratton House and looked for Hancock's line. "To my amazement," he reported, "the two lines which I was told to support I found to be almost totally annihilated." The Philadelphia Brigade recognized "some scattered companies and parts of regiments." Most soldiers however, recalled "one long line of battle, lying down two deep, but it is a line of dead men."

Twas in that hour his stern command
Called to a martyr's grave
The flower of his beloved land,
The nation's flag to save.
By rivers of their father's gore
His first-born laurels grew,
And well he deemed the sons would pour
Their lives for glory too.

2010-11-07T16:13:00.002-05:00

The Dead and Wounded Were Torn to Pieces.......
Bloody Angel, Spotsylvania--

"The dead and wounded were torn to pieces by canister as it swept the ground where they had fallen. The mud was halfway to our knees. ...Our losses were frightful. What remained of many different regiments that had come up to our support had concentrated at this point, and had planted their tattered colors upon a slight rise of ground where they stayed during the latter part of the day."

For many a mother's breath has swept
O'er Angostura's plain,
And long the pitying sky has wept
Above its moldered slain.
The raven's scream, or eagle's flight,
Or shepherd's pensive lay,
Alone awakes each sullen height
That frowned o'er that dread fray.

2010-11-07T16:05:00.003-05:00

It is for Us the Living.........
Fredericksburg National Cemetery--
"It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us -- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion -- that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

Sons of the Dark and Bloody Ground
Ye must not slumber there,
Where stranger steps and tongues resound
Along the heedless air.
Your own proud land's heroic soil
Shall be your fitter grave;
She claims from war his richest spoil,
The ashes of her brave.

2010-11-07T16:00:00.001-05:00

And Should Those Lives be Sacrificed in Vain?

Camp of the 28th Mass., Vol. Near Falmouth, VA June 1st 1863--
"And should those lives be sacrificed in vain? The heart of every true Irishman will answer no emphatically no. they have a vital interest in the preservation of our national existence the perpetuation of our institutions and the free and untrammeled execution of our laws. We who survive them have a double motive then to nerve us to action. We have the same national, political and social interests at stake not only for ourselves but for coming generations and the oppressed of every nation for America was a common asylum for all. And we have the stern fact before us that thousands of our race have sacrificed their lives in this cause and should we now fail to support it they will have fought, bled and died in vain."

Thus 'neath their parent turf they rest,
Far from the gory field,
Borne to a Spartan mother's breast
On many a bloody shield;
The sunshine of their native sky
Smiles sadly on them here,
And kindred eyes and hearts watch by
The heroes sepulcher.

2010-11-07T15:55:00.002-05:00

For Every Man That Falls in Battle.....

Confederate Cemetery, Spotsylvania--
"For every man that falls in battle, someone mourns, for every man who lies in hospital wards and of whom no note is taken, someone mourns. For the humblest soldier shot on picket, and of whose humble exit from the stage of life little is thought, some one mourns."

Rest on, embalmed and sainted dead,
Dear as the blood ye gave,
No impious footstep here shall tread
The herbage of your grave.
Nor shall your glory be forgot
While fame her record keeps,
For honor points the hallowed spot
Where valor proudly sleeps.

2010-11-07T15:48:00.003-05:00

...a Confederate Volley Ripped Through
Bloody Angle--Spotsylvania--
"Under a furious rain, the 15th New Jersey charged across a narrow field towards the famous "Bloody Angle." Just 50 yards from the enemy's works, a Confederate volley ripped through the regiment's right flank. In less than 30-minutes, 151 New Jerseyans has fallen, more than half of the unit present that morning. The regiment's chaplain and first historian, Alanson Haines, believed that, "no experience during the whole time the fifteenth was in service was more destructive than that half an hour, from 10 o'clock to half-past-ten on the morning of May 12th."

Yon marble minstrel's voiceless stone
In deathless song shall tell,
When many a vanquished age hath flown,
The story how ye fell.
Nor wreck, nor change, nor winter's blight,
Nor time's remorseless doom,
Shall dim one ray of glory's light
That gilds your deathless tomb.

A Day In The Life...................

2010-10-29T17:42:00.005-04:00

"The hammer banged reveille on the rail outside camp HQ at five o'clock as always. Time to get up."

Alexandr Solzhenitsyn

And your off....... Welcome to the rat race. There are many who probably can relate to Solzhenitsn's protagonist Ivan Denisovich Shukhov in One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich. Up at 5 a.m. On the road by six. God willing, there are no accidents on I-95 or a delay at a VRE station, or on the tracks; and you are at your desk by eight....ish. Then the mind numbing routine of the day begins. Where process is everything and outcomes are not. Mired in office bureaucracy and politics. Yet no matter how bad or boring one's day may be there are always moments to be savored. Even for a prisoner in Stalin's Gulags. "Shukhov went to sleep fully content. He'd had many strokes of luck that day."

Thankfully I am not part of the pack fighting their way up the interstate with a small cubicle awaiting you at the end of the trip. I do feel for those people and take this opportunity to provide what I hope is a moment to be savored. A glimpse into my day and some more pics from the road less traveled.............................

The Day Begins
Around 7am. Not the bumper to bumper interstate traffic but a drive down Hanover Street towards downtown. Not to an office but for my first and only coffee of the day and to catch-up on the comings and goings of Fredericksburg. An hour for coffee and back to the office by eight. Did you get that boss? And today we are off to Orange.

2010-10-29T17:33:00.002-04:00

Time for a Morning Cup of Joe.

OK while you are spilling your coffee either on yourself or on the person next to you as you slam on the brakes and veer right to keep from hitting that (expletive deleted) who just cut into your lane while at the same time getting an earful on your Bluetooth and the finger from the person driving in the lane next to you who you almost hit; I'm strolling down this picturesque sidewalk in downtown Fredericksburg for my morning coffee at Hyperion.

2010-10-29T17:17:00.003-04:00

The Inner Sanctum....
My office...well not really as I share the room with my wife. Which brings into question the whole inner sanctum thing. I've been told that Bogart has to go as its encroaching on my wife's space. Hey, see if you can find the 1916 Lee-Enfield rifle. There is also a piece of the deck of the HMS Iron Duke, Britain's flagship at the Battle of Jutland in May 1916 somewhere in here along with a bronze crucifix from the time of the First Crusade! Not the typical corporate America office. One of the advantages of working from your home. Does beat a 6' x 6' cubical with temporary walls.

2010-10-29T17:06:00.003-04:00

It's Lunchtime in the Burg.
Olde Town Grille in downtown Fredericksburg. I always sit at the counter and marvel as Shawn (pictured) and Dan the owner (one of my wife's former students) whip through multiple orders at one time. Today it's a bacon cheeseburger with jalapenos and chipotle sauce with potato chips made on the premises. No desert..watching those calories. I did get a shot of the burger but I thought this picture was more artsy. So you'll have to go in an order one yourself to see it.

2010-10-29T16:52:00.002-04:00

Hey Matt What the Hell is This?????
Brock Road in Spotsylvania County is what it is. We are getting off Rt. 3 and taking a short cut on our way to the town of Orange. And yes its a rather ordinary..almost boring, why in the hell did you take it, shot. What may seem ordinary today may not have been so ordinary at some other time. In this case 1864. After the bloodbath of the Battle of the Wilderness the Union Army was heading east to this point. Turn left was to retreat. To continue on ( in 1864 the road continued across somewhere near the mailbox in the background) was to head south and advance. When the army continued down the Brock Road Union Soldiers began to cheer. Union General Grant was heading south and the Confederacy's days were numbered.

2010-10-29T16:41:00.003-04:00

Take Me Home Country Roads to the Place I Belong.............
Frankly I never was much of a John Denver fan. Hey, quick fun fact! Did you know he wrote the lyrics to I'm Leaving on a Jet Plane made famous by Peter, Paul & Mary? OK I'm both off track and dating myself. If you haven't figured it out we are heading south on Rt-20 in Orange County. Lots O' old Farms heading down this road. I've posted a number of photos of the sites on Rt. 20 and there are still a lot of photos to take.

2010-10-29T16:27:00.002-04:00

We Have Arrived!!!
Today's destination is the Town of Orange. This is the courthouse downtown. And as with every small town in Virginia it has the statue in front honoring the sons of Orange who fought for the Confederacy. This is a rather unique looking courthouse. At some point I'll have to spend some time doing a little research........Not during working hours of course. Right now I've got to head down a block or two and inspect some water damage to a dining room ceiling.

2010-10-29T16:19:00.002-04:00

Going Back Home by Way of the Road Less Traveled....
The bridge over the Wilderness Creek driving through the Wilderness Battlefield. Especially in the fall its nice to get off the main roads and a drive through the battlefield parks. You would have to agree its quite a view this time of year. And it only gets better as fall progresses. Beats the hell out of the view from I-95 and Rt. 3 around 4pm!

2010-10-29T16:00:00.002-04:00

What Does This Have to Do With Work You May Ask?
Simple answer--it doesn't. As I could probably lose a pound or two...or three+ I have taken to skipping a lunch or two to document the pedigree of this Model 1841 cast-iron, smooth-bore six pounder sitting in front of our fire station. It is either one of thirty-six imported guns from Sweden or was cast at the West Point Foundry (1817-1911) in New York. In arrived in Fredericksburg by way of a request to the governor by the City Council in February 1850. In June of 1851 the governor authorized the state Adjatant General to send a six-pounder cannon to the city. Only time it was fired was on the 4th of July and Washington's birthday. Now trying to document how and when the gun was turned over the the great Commonwealth of Virginia. HEY! Wake-up!

I Pulled A Pooh

2010-10-08T22:31:00.005-04:00

"I don't see much sense in that," said Rabbit. "No," said Pooh humbly, "there isn't. But there was going to be when I began it. It's just that something happened to it along the way."

Winnie the Pooh

Most of us are sensible people. We travel the shortest distance between two points as quickly as possible. We are task oriented and play by the rules. Being sensible is ingrained in us and to do otherwise we believe is to lose focus and waste valuable time that could be better spent doing more sensible things. We also fear that straying from the sensible course will bring about chaos and uncertainty.........Or maybe not?

This week I was off to attend the annual company conference . I put the address into my GPS, not bothering to confirm it of course (It's a guy thing), and the most direct route was calculated (the shortest distance thing) and off I went ........ It was about an hour into the trip when I started to feel a bit uneasy(that ingrained sensibility thing) . My surroundings were not as I remembered then from previous years. The sensible thing to do was to check in to confirm where I was going. In this case the sensible course of action lost out to a desire to play fast and loose with the rules and continue exploring my new surroundings.

When I was about seven miles from my, "destination," I finally called in and learned that I had punched in the wrong resort into my GPS. Where I was supposed to be was about 60 miles north or where I was. The sensible thing to do at that point would be to become highly agitate (the whole shortest distance/time wasting thing again) and question my GPS's parentage while throwing it across the road--It gave me the wrong directions didn't it?

Fear not my GPS is still firmly attached to my windshield. I decided to accept, "...that something just happened along the way," and realized I now had another hour of exploring to enjoy. The moral of the story is that happiness is tied to more than just straight lines, time management, and other sensible things. And that a little uncertainty and chaos can also be fun. And now for your viewing pleasure.....................

The Road Warrior
Yours truly embarking on another road trip into the unknown. With me are the essentials. My trusty Garmin GPS to make sure I don't following the most direct routes. My Fuzzy dice to insure I can find my car in mall parking lots. You would be amazed of the number of 2010 Ford Fusions are on the road today. Also can't really tell the difference between a Focus and a Fusion. But I digress. My pine tree shaped air freshener that smells like vanilla (I can't explain it either) to cover the smells of stale coffee, burgers and fries, and smoke from the fire loss I just left. My hand carver German Rosary given to me by my son. Yes, God is my co-pilot. I need all the help I can get. And finally no car is complete without a bobble head. In my case a Stu bobble head from the movie The Hangover. When the bobble head moves it recites three lines from the movie. Needless to say I now have them all memorized and they are now getting a little irritating. Hey, I just noticed in the picture the button for my hazzard lights. Go thing to know.

2010-10-08T22:12:00.002-04:00

To Boldly Go Where No Sensible Person Would Consider Going
Star date 100610. While our GPS system says we are on course I am feeling a bit uneasy as my surroundings seem foreign and unfamiliar. Every fiber of my being is telling me to do the sensible thing and call in for directions. Yet....something else which I cannot put my finger on has just decked my sensible side with a right cross. We continue on into the unknown.

I can't tell you what county I was in, or the road I was on, when I took this photos. I was just enjoying the view.

2010-10-08T22:03:00.002-04:00

See, If I was Sensible I Would Have Missed This.
Somewhere on Rt 340 about 40 miles from where I was supposed to be. OK, how many times do you get to see the laundry hung out to dry on the porch of an 19th century home that needs some serious work? By the way, this is my yard in about another month or two if I can't get my son Joshua back on the dating circuit. Keep those pictures and resumes coming!

2010-10-08T21:55:00.002-04:00

For You Sensible Folks Out There

Wintergreen Resort. A view from the resort where I had rejoined all the sensible folks at the annual conference. Don't want you to think that there aren't opportunities for the sensible among us to look up and enjoy the view.

2010-10-08T21:29:00.002-04:00

Thank God For Digital Cameras........... And A Pop Quiz!

A quick stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway. You cannot travel more than a few feet on this parkway without wanting to pull over and break out the camera. At that rate the cost in 35mm film and developing costs would probably cover my mortgage for a month. With my digital camera I point, shoot, crop, sharpen, highlight, etc., and finally post. Save a lot of money at the cost of a few hours sleep. And now for your quiz.........Virginia has I believe 34 National parks, trails, historic sites and parkways. There is one state in the Union that has zero, the big goose egg, nada, zip, zilch, no National parks, trails, historic sites, etc.....Which state is it. Some hints: The current Superintendent of the Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Battlefield Parks calls this state home. One of the state's more famous mascots is a sexual frustrated chicken.

2010-10-08T21:12:00.004-04:00

"I Wanna Know What Love Is. I Want You to Show Me..."

Oakwood Cemetery, Orange County. I do believe Lou Gramm of Foreigner has gotten his answer. In addition to everything else note the solar panels on the roof that keep the lights on 24/7. In a recent story in the local paper a mother was told by another local cemetery that she had to remove all the mementos around her daughter's grave because they violated cemetery rules. Don't think Oakwood has any rules.

2010-10-08T21:00:00.002-04:00

Don't Rush Me Dear I'm putting My Face On.........
Fredericksburg, VA. A few weekends ago our local arts community hosted a street art event called Via Colori. The event can be traced back to 16th century Italy were itinerant artist used to draw pictures on the ground, usually based on the Madonna, in front of cathedrals hoping to get some loose change thrown their way. Unfortunately, it rained Sunday and most of the works at this event were not completed. Even unfinished this effort it quite impressive.

2010-10-08T20:41:00.003-04:00

Another Opportunity to Ignore the Sensible Approach
Westmoreland Co. I spend a short period of my misbegotten youth in Westmoreland County. Back then after partying with friends you stayed off the main roads on the way home to avoid the local constabulary. Looking back now after 30+ years I would have to say it was pretty stupid to drive on unlit narrow winding roads after a six-pack or two. You were too intent on staying on the road and it was too dark to see anything. Being a bit nostalgic recently I decided to ignore the, "continue 5 miles and turn left on Rt. 3 west," coming from the Garmin (the sensible thing to do) and took a quick left onto Rt 624 which had been well traveled in my youth. But today I had the opportunity to see what I had missed all those years ago.

2010-10-08T20:18:00.004-04:00

This Can't be Stafford County?

Stafford County is part of the fastest growing region in Virginia located on the I-95 corridor. Considered a suburb of Washington, D. C it is expected to double its population in the next 20 or so years. How to handle this growth is a hot topic in the county at the moment. This little single lane gravel track is called Leeland Road. Just up the road a piece it does widen a bit and is paved. Not too far from here is a major commuter parking lot. Crossing over this section of the "road", and Potomac Creek to the right, is an old railroad bridge. Will have to come back here in 20 years to see which side won the growth debate.