The Pink Angel

Brenda used to tell us, “I quit smoking too late”. A nagging hack of a cough persisted for weeks that turned into months. A daughter-in-law’s leukemia took precedence over a trip to one’s own doctor. Even after her own diagnosis of lung cancer she was still holding garage sales to support her son’s family. I am going to beat this thing if that is what I am to do.
It was a losing battle…but even at the end she was still taking care of the feelings of others. No bitterness. So many people were touched by Brenda that she had to be some kind of Angel.

Flying V

Each morning I have the pleasure of driving by Cove Lake on the way to work. I never seem to tire of the interplay of color, shadow, and reflection. I have mentioned this area before. The ducks enjoy their paradise without fear of guns since it is a state park. Occasionally I see them in their Flying V. It is not so often that I can routinely carry a camcorder to record their follow-the-leader game. I am usually too rushed to hang out for their next swarm. One day last week (sans camera) I was driving and they were flying, parallel to the road at the treetops, almost in slow motion. Sometimes I wish the mind was like a big hard drive... recording beauty for replay over and over.

Coming out party

Thanksgiving brings out some of the best extended family opportunities. At 19 years old in 1971 Peg is introduced for the first time to the southwestern Virginia relatives. Great Grandmother was a spry 85 year old. The dinner plates have been cleared away. Desserts are on the way. As said a year ago, “eating forms the basis for all future relationships”. Well, it has worked for me. -James

into the light

November 9, 19xx

Happpy Birthday, Sara.
This was from 8th grade
graduation. Already quite
a presence @ 13 1/2

I speak

I speak,
You speak,
We speak,
I spoke,
We spoke
I am speaking,
We are speaking...
The people have spoken.

Into the Valley of the 106,000

Alabama‘s flags fly valiantly into the shadows...
foretelling the loss in the end.

Capture the flag

Like a heavyweight boxing match LSU and Tennessee slugged it out at Neyland Stadium Saturday. Lead changes and a rookie QB kept it exciting. The Tigers were the better team and kept the Vols in it with penalties and turnovers... Attack of the battle flags.

up Jake’s Creek Trail

Sylvan scene near Elkmont Campground, Great Smoky Mountain National Park. water seeking it’s own level, path of least resistance, arteries of the life force; more correctly, venous return, washing cleansing, tumbling, Eternal Return, by gravity, gravitas, water vapor, condensation, in a closed loop.

The Earth biosphere, third rock, hydrosphere, big terrarium.