Jonathan Bailey Photography

I ate 'em

2012-02-28T10:04:00.001-06:00

One of the best things about the zip lining, is the beef eating. You see, the zip line place is home of North Shore Kauai beef. On the way back from zip lining I asked the instructor, where could I go to eat the wonderful looking grass fed cows that were everywhere. And she informed me, the Chevron. I, honestly, asked three times before I believed her. Fortunately, the local Chevron / grill / butcher was in the parking lot of a mall. So I had a not so delightful burger (locally grown, not so delightful burger!), and Kat went shopping. Sometimes happenstance and coincidence work out in our favor.
jon

The Roots

2012-02-23T04:30:00.000-06:00

After a long road, with some delightful single lane bridges, we ended up at the end of the north side. And it was a beach and forest. And, the beginning of the Napali Coast. We didn't hike very far, and we were greeted with one of my favorite scenes.

We also totally managed to lose each other after a bathroom break. It was a little embarrassing.

jon

And, Where Were We Again?

2012-02-22T05:00:00.000-06:00

Going paramilitary?

Nope, ziplinning! It was freaking awesome. Just unbelievably fun. Try it, NOW!

With no fear, wet weather, and helmets to protect to us. We were stoked, it and it did not disappoint. Just a rip and a ride.

Turn down the volume, and prepare to be nausious,

Untitled from Jon Bailey on Vimeo.

I'm not sure it gets the full excitement of the moment. But, it certainly demonstrates my inability to go straight.

A little wet, a little tired, but still could tolerate me! What a great day.

Boo, leaving is lame.

jon

Rooster-Roo

2012-02-22T03:00:00.000-06:00

Oh, all the things rooster can do, all the places roosters can go. Don't you wish you were with the roosters?

Rooster, on the path.

Rooster at the beach.

Rooster getting ready to call home.

jon

Hiker

2012-02-21T05:30:00.000-06:00

A feature of the island is the urban wild zoology. The first example is the chickens, the second is the cats. Everywhere you go, there seem to be cats about. In this case, we watched this guy hop up on the table, walk around in a circle, and set his butt down at the rate of an arthritic geriatric. After a while, we finally asked a guide if that is some one's cat, or just a stray. His response, "oh, that's Hiker"

"And, Hiker loves non-dairy creamer".

Seconds later he walks towards the coffee set out for everyone, and a transformation began. Soon, he was no longer a tired old cat, but a youthfull kitty. Meowing joyfully in anticipation of the treat which was soon to come. As you watched Hiker enjoy his non-dairy creamer, you knew he was a sweet little kitten after all.
jon

Puka Dog, Poi'Pu

2012-02-20T04:30:00.000-06:00

By the suggestion of my physical therapist, we decided to stop at Puka Dog's. It was pretty much as advertised, and more. The chutney / sauces they douse the hot dogs in is to die for. But, the real innovation is how the hot dog is "bunned". They have heated spikes which they jam the bun on, thus putting a hole in, and toasting, the bun at the same time. A style of dog I had not yet experienced. I should totally rip them off. Otherwise, the name always makes me laugh, as I have a frat brother nicknamed Puka, and he is one hilarious guy.

Additionally, we began the "Jon eating things" series. I mean, why just take pictures of the food when you can take pictures of yourself eating the food. DELICIOUS!
jon

Layers

2012-02-19T05:00:00.000-06:00

I like the layered feel. Plus, corn. Everyone likes corn. Especially in sugar form.
jon

All The Glamour

2012-02-18T04:00:00.000-06:00

Of course, first things first. Glamor shots of Katherine. Check her out!

It was the perfect shirt and necklace combonation for the occasion. A set we just happened to buy moments ago in Hanepepe.

The surf was a little rough for us to swim. That in addition to it being a no-rescue beach, and in addition to it being known for deadly undertow. Yeah, guess no swimming in the ocean for us.

Finally, who you've all been waiting for. Blast, I totally lost that hat.
jon

Payoff

2012-02-17T03:30:00.000-06:00

That's right, a literal rainbow at the end. Check that out! This image has become indelible in my mind. Not just because it is my screen saver at work, but the whole deal. What a fantastic spot.

jon

p.s. turn down the volume,

Untitled from Jon Bailey on Vimeo.

Signs, the good kind.

2012-02-16T14:11:00.000-06:00

Fortunately, for my own fortitude, there were signs that the trip may be worth it after all. Now, in this situation one may be susceptible to taking anything as a sign. As we all know, when you get in deep sometimes you just have to keep digging down before you are smart enough to come crawling out.
jon

Behind Us

2012-02-15T14:10:00.000-06:00

As we carried on, fears grew to an extreme level. Concerns were voiced, repeated, and emphasized as we carried on. With each passing moment Katherine's arms became more fatigued from the rutted path. I knew how far it was, but not how far we were. The tension was only made more palpable as we saw long lost parts of cars sadly rusting away after being rattled off their one time host. The frequent passages of other tourists ripping down the road with all abandon while the road became ever narrower was not anyone's favorite. All the while I was being reminded that only half of our traveling crew thought this was at all a good idea. Yet, through near tears, we continued to prevail and forward on.
jon

Wide Eyed For the Wide Skys

2012-02-14T14:00:00.000-06:00

On the Southern side of the island, the skies were big and bold. A landscape that reach about as far as you could see. Yet scarred by canyons you can't believe were formed in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. And here we were, defeated. Our planned sailing trip was canceled. We had spent the entire day wasting time so we could stay close to the port city. Well, perhaps wasted is too strong of a word. But, when you are on an island like Kauai, it is hard not to think of time as opportunity, and not going for broke every day as a missed moment. So, without a plan or real idea of what to do, we drove. And, we drove. I decided that we would drive to the end of the road. After all, you could, it wasn't that big of an island. Katherine reluctantly agreed, and we were off.
jon

To Long; Didn't Read

2012-02-13T14:05:00.000-06:00

As luck would have it, Katherine did not read the sign. At the end of the paved road, there was still road. Dirt road, moderately poorly maintained dirt road. Had Kat known the either the length or disrepair of the road in conjunction with the sign, it would have been a guaranteed "no". Fortunately, ignorance was the better part of valor that day, and we rode on.
jon

Mele Kalikimaka

2012-02-13T11:18:00.000-06:00

I know, a little late. But, why should you miss the island greeting that was sent to you, from the land that is far away.
jon

The Ride

2012-02-13T06:00:00.000-06:00

The Nissan Versa. It is an awful car. Rattle trap even before we got on the road. It had that top to bottom cheap feel to it. Whatever, she got us around for the week, and considering we probably weren't the only jackasses to drive the damn thing on a dirt road, it does seem to be holding up well.
jon

Up Close and Personal

2012-02-12T10:46:00.000-06:00

Industrial decay and decline is something all Milwaukians are intimately familiar with. And to see it on Kauai is rather alarming. The end of the sugar plantations was tied to the beginning of workers rights. The great sugar barons probably didn't anticipate that fighting to become a state would be suicidal.

Decay always has its own stark beauty.
jon

And That's Just the Side of the Road

2012-02-11T10:44:00.000-06:00

Hawaii truly has boundless beauty, and expansive sights. From blue sky, to green hills, it never ceased to amaze.
jon

Roadside Attraction

2012-02-10T14:11:00.000-06:00

Kitsch at it's finest. The sign on the side of the road was advertising a volcano. Now, we are not morons, but we really wanted to see this volcano. And here it is in all its glory.

It took Katherine six tries to get the "hang ten" hand sign correct. It was hilarious.

The tiny garden was surprisingly pretty.

And here is where we found a great close up of a crazy plant. I still hardly believe those spots are seeds and not some fungal infection.
jon

Mele's Kusina of Hanapepe

2012-02-09T14:06:00.000-06:00

I wonder which one is Mele? Also, what an awesome name, I should have asked how to pronounce it.

Much of the Hawaiian food can not be qualified as "healthy". Most anything cheap enough for a snack or quick bite was deep fried and delicious.

Yum.

Mele's Kusina also has this great view when you sit down.

Nah, the real view was above the table. These flowers are some of my favorites, adding a bright red to a rather subdued town.
jon

The Thing About Hanapepe

2012-02-08T14:03:00.000-06:00

Hanapepe is not a terrible place, but again not a first choice. We decided to camp out in this former immigrant town as we waited for the cruise. It does have a cute little arts district, which did have some ridiculously expensive paintings. It also, apparently, was trying to become famous for having Niihau shells. Near every corner store had the 'certified', 'authentic', or 'genuine' Niihau shell leis. Also not cheap. Which was strange, as these were particularly tiny shells. The only thing that makes them notable is the very few native Hawaiians which are allowed to, well, squat on Niihau. From what I read, this is their only source of income.

Hanapepe also has a swinging bridge.

But, don't dawdle to long, people actually use the swinging bridge to get about.

And once again, the Aloha Theater. So scenic.
jon

Scenic Hanapepe

2012-02-07T11:19:00.000-06:00

The vibrant art scene is immediately apparent upon entering Hanepepe. The town is also well known for being the home town of Lilo, from Disney's Lilo and Stitch. Which makes them ever-so-slightly more famous than Milwaukee, which is mostly known for Liverne and Shirly.
jon

Kauai Coffee Company; The Tour

2012-02-06T10:55:00.000-06:00

What do you do when your $45 a person botanical garden tour is canceled? Why go to the Kauai Coffee Company of course! Especially when you cannot reschedule as you are planning on doing a sunset sail on the Na Pali coast that evening.

Now, I would not say put this experience first on the list. But, for a time killer, it is pretty effective. Also, go there before your morning coffee, as samples abound.

If you don't like the samples, feel free to pick and eat your own coffee. Kidding, of course. But, if you've ever wanted to get up close and personal with the amazing giver of life known as the coffee plant, here is your chance.

Unsurprisingly, it pretty much looks like a farm.

You can't quite get lost. And beating the retirees from the cruise ship is paramount. So, get your early bird on and go!
jon

Tidepools, Grand Hyatt; the place to eat in Kauai

2012-02-05T10:46:00.000-06:00

Tidepools at the Grand Hyatt was very impressive. They really bring the A-Game. From a great waiter, to a kickin' menu. It was the spot.

And we were by no means emboldened to go big after getting a hotel gift certificate for a wedding gift. By, no, means, at, all.

Appetizer. Appamazing. Such finely seared tuna. Where to begin, where to end? All I can say, you saw it here first. (Unless you've been there.)

If only I could actually remember the name of what I ate. Instead I am left with this feeling, this emotion, this long lost ethereal notion of deliciousness. Mmmm, ethereal deliciousness....

jon

And Dinner Was Beautiful

2012-02-04T10:33:00.000-06:00

Even before anything arrived, I already had the most beautiful dinner you could imagine. Not a bad view, eh, eh, eh?
jon

That's Us Indeed

2012-02-03T10:30:00.000-06:00

Even had time for fun! See, you can do silly myspace style photos with a 5D. Why would you even question that?
jon

Moet? Don't Mind if I do.

2012-02-02T10:26:00.000-06:00

Not a bad find when returning to your hotel room. Thank you "Uncle" Rick and Andy! Also came with some delicisous chocolate dipped strawberries. Which were amazing, because they came with this crunchy stuff in the chocolate. Puffed rice maybe? Wait, not important. What is important was the delicious and amazing champagne and strawberries for a turn-down service. Nummy.
jon

I want to go back to there.

2012-02-01T10:20:00.000-06:00

Hammock's. The everyman's relaxation ideal. Swaying at sunset. Sigh, I really do want to go back.
jon

Sunset in Paradise

2012-01-31T10:20:00.001-06:00

What to do around sunset? How about a little shopping.

A little sight seeing, even if it is just looking back at the hotel.

A walk on the beach.

Watch the waves rolling in.

And taking a dip (actually not Kat this time. Thanks random lady!)

-jon

Deep Fried You Say? Mark's Place it is!

2012-01-18T02:00:00.000-06:00

All the local places had awesome shit food. For instance, this deep fried tuna belly at Mark's Place. It was phenomenal, greasy, filling, and fatty. And our first experience that the local food is generally a terrible combination of cheap ingredients and fat. Traditional food, and restaurant food was quite good. But, seemingly, due to the high cost of food, the local joints trafficked in high-fat and low quality fair. Of course, they did not forget the delicious.

They also didn't forget the requisite rooster. Seen here enjoying a meal with Katherine.
jon

There's A Monastery In Them There Hills

2012-01-17T02:00:00.000-06:00

Up in the mountains there was a small, but notable Hindu Monastery. It was a long trip on a rainy day to go see, but we did have some planned stops along the way.

We actually intended on going to see the Iraivan Temple (http://www.himalayanacademy.com/ssc/hawaii/iraivan/ ) , but were foiled. When we called in the morning we were informed that you could go and visit any time of day, just to find out that the tour to the Iraivan Temple was only available by reservation at 9 am.

What was truly odd about the experience was all the white people. I mean, all the monks were white people, the visitors were about half white half not. Somehow, and this is the weird part, it felt less genuine that each of these monks chose to be, instead of grew up in a Hindu society. It is a feeling that this space is somehow "fake", an almost Disney "this is a temple" feel, instead of having the feeling it is a temple.

This assertion is; completely, absolutely, unquestionably unfair. I have no doubt that the people worshiping here regard their religion in the highest esteem. But, well, that's how it feels.

It also doesn't help that I'm a stupid tourist who doesn't understand their traditions.

jon

To Get to The Other Side.

2012-01-16T02:00:00.000-06:00

Duh.

Jon

Birds? In a Hotel??

2012-01-15T01:30:00.000-06:00

Each morning the staff brought out four birds of paradise to the common area of the hotel. What was amazing about this space is that it was both open air, and in the hotel. The lobby was covered only along the halls and at the check-in desk. Otherwise it was a grand open space.

The gardening around the hotel contained the most spectacular flowers we saw the whole trip.

In fact, outside of the hotel we saw very few flowers. There was one truly spectacular wild orchid, but it was far to far to capture on 'film'

Upon exiting (or entering I guess) the hotel there was a giant koi pond with two black swans. When you walk up to the pond they immediately chase up to you, but when I took a picture instead of feeding them they quickly swam away.

jon

No, the License Plates Aren't Kidding

2012-01-14T01:30:00.001-06:00

There are, in fact, rainbows everywhere on the island. It is that rain for a minute, then get clear type of weather that breeds the colorful wonders. In fact, we could see this bow from end to end, it was certainly a site to behold.
jon

Blow Hole!

2012-01-14T01:30:00.000-06:00

Hey, maybe by the time this posts I'll figure out how to view and post my videos. Oh man, they are huge, and my blasted computer can by no means handle the size. Outside of buying a MacBook, anyone have advice?
jon

I Said the Gophers

2012-01-13T01:00:00.000-06:00

Now, I understand that golfing in Hawaii is the top of many peoples list. In fact, once upon a time it did appear on my list. Then I realized there was; one, no way I would ever keep the ball from flying into the ocean after every drive, chip, and yes even every put. Two, wow, how expensive is that. I've long since quit playing the worlds most pointless, expensive, frustrating "sport". Well, maybe golf isn't all of those things, but if you average out its place on each of those lists, it may be the top combined.
jon

She Gets Her Own

2012-01-12T02:00:00.000-06:00

My favorite subject always gets her own post. Except when she doesn't. But she mostly gets her own posts.

jon

Along the Trail

2012-01-11T02:00:00.000-06:00

A tough call was to bring the new camera with the one lens. Not even a zoom lens! The forced restriction was great for capturing certain things, but it made me miss on the grand expanse pictures.

It is hard to really complain, witnessing each scene in person, and not focusing on the "perfect" picture was quite relaxing. Only occasionally I would force an attempt. Not that this attempt is forced or anything.

But it absolutely changes your vision.Changes where you look, has you chasing detail. It is so easy to miss the details. A fifty millimeter is simply a different way of thinking. We have become so used to just zooming in and out without regard.

The trail itself was rugged and dry packed mud on rock. It felt as if we were flowing downhill. We also found out we were absolutely amazingly lucky to wander to the top on a clear day. From what we understand, it is almost guaranteed to be wet and cloudy.

In fact, Mount Waialeale is quite possibly the wettest place on earth,

Averaging more than 452 inches (11,500 mm) of rain a year since 1912, with a record 683 inches (17,300 mm) in 1982, its summit is one of the rainiest spots on earth.^[1]

^{(thanks Wikipedia; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Waialeale )}

For contrast, Milwaukee gets 35 inches a year, and the dry part of Kauai gets 17. I mean, how freakishly stunning is that.

More trees. Boy-howdy do I like trees.

FERN!!!!!!!!! And yes, the mountain top jungles do seem to contain fern gullies.

Just showing off how much detail my camera can pull. Wholy moly.

Jon

That Looks Like a Great Hike

2012-01-10T02:30:00.000-06:00

The first whole day was the only hiking day. After buying a house and planing a wedding, we went for the 'wing it' style of honeymooning. On the first day we drove all the way to the top, and decided that this would be a great spot to start wandering down the red path. The tour book we had was not great for hiking, so you really had to keep your thinking cap on, just going for it would not be advised on the island.

Jon

Rooster Time

2012-01-09T02:30:00.000-06:00

They were everywhere. Feral roosters from abroad. There were also feral cats, and wild dogs, but none seemed to take to island life like a rooster can. Especially the dogs, those sickly beasts were rarely seen, and even some of the domestic ones looked awful. The cats seemed much more territorial, only inhabiting an area around a shop. But the roosters, oh my. They were in every parking lot, along every road, and even into the wooded hikes. I've never quite seen such wild animal dominance.
jon

Tree!

2012-01-08T02:00:00.000-06:00

Love the trees. So many lush delightful trees. Imagine, trees. Leafy trees. In the WINTER!! Oh, I miss you so much Kaua'i

A Trip up Waimea Canyon

2012-01-07T01:30:00.000-06:00

The Pacific's Grand Canyon, Waimea Canyon on Kauaii is a spectacle to behold. Beginning on the South side of the island it rams smack into the Na Pali coast.

The winding roads were the appropriate amount of twist and turn, certainly not a repeat of the nausea inducing "dragon's tail"

The whole of the south is covered in this red clay looking soil. It stains everything you own a nice brownish red.

The canyon is mostly formed by the flow of water, just like the more famous Grand Canyon, in addition it did have some assistance from lava flows and a collapsing volcano. Wikipedia Knows

As usual, I took pictures of graffiti stickers on a sign which no longer communicates. The lack of a wide angle lens presented a challenge in scenes like this. This is the second impasse it caused, the first was a lack of hotel room pictures.

But, it does take great pictures of Kat!

jon

Crazy Chips

2012-01-06T02:00:00.000-06:00

Crazy colorful that is. Look at the weird food these alien people eat! You wouldn't even think them Americans. Actually, that is a fact you sort of forget from time to time. You really feel that it should be counted as visiting a foreign country, because it just takes so damn long to get there. Maybe the Hawaiians should revolt and make it a foreign country again. That would be a total surprise, the over / under is that Texas would be the first to secede.

jon

Our Porch

2012-01-05T02:00:00.000-06:00

Though banned from our household, I do like me some wicker. It always feels so summery and light. A pleasant place to rest my bum. Kat missed out on porch time, usually napping in the wonderful AC as I sat outside and reveled in the local brews.

Our view was partial ocean. Which was true, there were a couple of snippets of ocean to be seen. But, that was of no matter, as we were close enough to fall asleep each night with the sounds of waves lapping against the shore, and overlooking the garden pools was no eyesore.

jon

A Good Place to Chill

2012-01-04T02:00:00.000-06:00

The resort had many wonderful spaces to sit back and relax by the pool. Which is really nice, if that's your thing. Being a more sort of restless type, it was hard for me to imagine spending a day by the pool. A morning or afternoon, maybe, but a whole day. Probably not gonna happen.

jon

You Got Stacked!

2012-01-03T02:00:00.000-06:00

Rock stacking is a fun and interesting habit. I have no idea if it is part of an ancient Maori tradition, or if it takes any particular skill. But, it makes for some nice detail on the scenery of the beach.
-jon

A Morning

2012-01-02T01:00:00.000-06:00

One of many delightful sunrises from near our hotel. It was quite pleasant being so close to so much for the early morning. That, and both of our sleeping schedules were set to be up at 530am in the morning every day. Far be it from me to deny an early morning jaunt.

Jon

A NightCap

2012-01-01T01:30:00.000-06:00

And a moment for rest and relaxation. The end of a long flight and tiring day. A time to get our ears talked off by another two honeymooners. Very, very drunk honeymooners. The best was either when he bought a bottle of Scotch to ship back to Philadelphia. From Hawaii. It wasn't Hawaiian scotch. Or, when he closed the tab because his wife kept ordering drinks while he wasn't looking. Either way, it was a bit much for our first day on the garden island, and we quickly scurried back to the room.

jon

We Got Leid

2011-12-31T02:00:00.000-06:00

Finally, we got leid. I was slightly disappointing not to get leid at the airport, but getting leid at the hotel may have been best.

Landfall - Hawaii

2011-12-30T02:00:00.000-06:00

Again, I do realize that it is mildly insane to be taking pictures of airports all of the time. But, what else am I supposed to do during a layover? Plus, we were really excited to be in Hawaii. First and foremost, because we got off the blasted plane, and second because, well, frankly, WOOOO! Honeymoon!!!!!

The airport had some good touches, and I wouldn't be surprised if that was an actual translation. But, I'm pretty sure Aloha means mostly hello and goodbye. Which if it meant to love, would be a really odd way to great and leave.

And then, lunch. Or was it dinner. Linner? Anyway, I had some good local beer to kick off the trip. A good, local, $9 bill.

It was a good break from traveling.

jon

The Only Choice

2011-12-29T02:00:00.000-06:00

I don't know about the rest of you, but the only choice as far as I know is Canada Dry. That sweet delicious ginger ale makes every flight complete. It is so ingrained in my mind that is what to order. I have no idea why, or where it comes from but I am delighted that I am not the only one to think so, The Oatmeal . Of course, why take a picture of it. Well, any number of reasons. Boredom, new camera toy, boredom, an opportunity to reference The Oatmeal, and boredom. It was very necessary to break up the monotony of "the train game" and writing thank you cards on a 9 hour flight. If only it had been overnight and I could have slept.
jon

O'Hare A'Gain

2011-12-28T02:00:00.000-06:00

O'Hare, the launching point of so many adventures. And really, not the worst place the Monday after Thanksgiving. No one was flying by the time we got there. Well, no one in the O'Hare sense, there were still a load of people. I was not the only one who photographed the decorations.

One reason Kat was willing to allow me to receive the camera is its portrait prowess. Amazing thing that nifty fifty.

I enjoy the hustle and bustle. Now that I'm a suburbanite and not walking through downtown every day, I genuinely miss it. Which is sort of sad, except my house is awesome. And better than yours. Niah.

It must be odd being an airport architect. So much of what you do is pure utilitarian. Structure following need, form following function. It seems there are only so many ways to a link terminals via walkway. But, when they do have a great space, it really makes you feel it is well thought out, and in its own way beautiful.

jon

It's a Party

2011-12-27T02:30:00.000-06:00

The day after we had a traditional wedding present opening. Something I had no idea was traditional until in the middle of the party.

As usual, Andy was too cute with the kids. The kids destroyed everything in their path, including Andy. And everyone ate so much cake. Man we had a lot of leftover cake.

The classic me taking a picture of the girls taking a picture of the picture book with pictures of themselves in it. The girls did proceeded to take a picture of every page in the photobooth picture book. You know, just in case my mom wanted that on her camera.

Then we all took out our smartphones.

jon

What Nice Wrapping Paper

2011-12-26T02:00:00.000-06:00

I for one, must admit, that presents are awesome. But, I don't think it dawned on us until much later that people would actually be giving us stuff. I know what people might have said, but we didn't get married for the presents. And they ended up being a total life saver, otherwise our house would be an example for a miserly Spartan.

jon

Tuckered

2011-12-25T01:30:00.000-06:00

The night-cap ended up being water. After a night of fun and ceremony we were exhausted. The good way, but exhausted none-the-less.
Jon

My new favorite toy

2011-12-24T02:38:00.000-06:00

It was after the wedding, after the reception, pretty much after everything, and time to wind down. I, oddly, was smart enough not to walk around drunk with my brand new camera the entire night. But, just the end when we were heading up to Blue.

To drunk, and the camera being new, I just ran with full auto. (Or maybe it was aperature priority?) Well, the important part is that the low light prowess of this beast was staggering.

It can even focus in low light! The Olympus either used the strobe flash, ick, or it would need the big flash. In this case, I can literally point and click, and amazing happens.

See, amazing!
Jon

Elegance, Thy name is

2011-12-23T04:35:00.000-06:00

And, because as well as beautiful and elegant, she is also smart. She ordered it with a lens, and memory card so I could immediately begin snapping pictures. Super - duper awesome. In hindsight, I wish this was the first picture instead of Xavier. But, whatever. I was just so excited to get it going.

Thanks,
Jon

So, I have THE camera.

2011-12-22T08:35:00.001-06:00

As a surprise wedding gift, Katherine got me the wedding gift of the century. The one, the only, Canon 5D Mark II .

Xavier says, awesome.

Jon

What's On?

2011-12-14T01:30:00.000-06:00

I enjoy the marks of civilization. Of our waste, of our triumph, of our defeats. That there might be a former owner with a tragic story, a TV that's just past its prime, or a broken heap that no one is going to pick up. Each item has a history of its own. From inventor to designer to trash, the life of an object is not without its own tale of how it arrived where it is. I'm always reminded of this as man made objects always seem so random, so out of place compared with nature's own grandiose plans. That we just drop things along a curb, entirely lacking circumstances of arrival makes each an exhibit for all. They are part of a web, but in this place they seem so removed from it. Did the designer realize that in the end, it was trash they were designing? That once the idea left their desk its fate was sealed, future landfill fodder. I suppose not, and maybe that's better.
jon

I know the answer

2011-12-13T01:00:00.000-06:00

Who put these here is the question. Without any evidence it will be hard to ever know for sure. I cannot believe that man even has the technology to put up such crazy icons. And even though you think you know, I can disprove your "science". This riddle only has one solution:

For sitting?

2011-12-12T01:00:00.000-06:00

Dude, I totally call dibs on the good seat.

jon

Hey Snaky-poo!

2011-12-11T13:14:00.000-06:00

What's up little snake? Gonna find some crickets and eat them? So glad I didn't accidentally step on you on my way to that flower. Maybe later we can hang out, but now I've got to get back to my hike.
jon

Color Fantastic

2011-12-10T01:00:00.000-06:00

So much color! Enjoy it while you cannot. As now is the winter. Oh, we can only hope it is a bright and cold winter, and not the long slog through gray blegh that it can so often be. What I wouldn't give for snow almost every night, and clear skies every morning. *finger's crossed*.

Jon

Hiatus

2011-12-09T13:09:00.001-06:00

Thy name is wedding planning. Well, not just wedding planning. There was also the simple fact I overwrote a trip to Madison with my nieces Christmas card pictures. Yes, I finally did it. I mismanaged my memory cards. It is an awful, traumatic experience. A whole weekend with the Ferkos down the electronic toilet. It did, however, focus and double my "get this done" attitude towards the photo session. But, I was deflated, the blog was missing critical pictures. I know I'll go back, but it will never be the same. Why is time so fleeting?

Red Tree

2011-11-08T17:20:00.003-06:00

Let me say this for sure, fall started too early this year. I know it is pretty and all. But, man, I was really starting to get into Summer. Next year I'm going to start playing outside even sooner.
jon

Maybe, not open.

2011-11-04T03:00:00.000-06:00

Well, last of the North Ave line. I suppose I'll have to post another set of depressing Milwaukee pics a different time. In fact, I think I took a similar walk a week later. Allright, more depressing pics!
jon

Phone, Without a Phone?

2011-11-03T02:00:00.000-06:00

So, maybe there should be preassigned spots to stand when you are talking on the phone. Especially if you use bluetooth, that way we know you aren't crazy. Of course, this only works until the crazy people figure out they can stand and talk to themselves without being harrased in the zones. But, maybe that's another idea; designated crazy people zones. Awesome.
jon

There's More

2011-11-02T02:30:00.000-06:00

It also dawns on my me that my spell checker was not working properly. Hopefully the embarrassment is minor.

jon

37th Street Scoopz

2011-11-01T02:00:00.000-06:00

When shooting on my city trips, I've gotten more and more into desaturation. Though it seems like an odd choice, it seems like a natural progressoin for photogophers. (this based on my informal poll of dicking around on the Internet). It just seems that the feel of the scene, and communicating how you felt when you were standing there matters more than "pop". I've shown a few people this picture, and I just know that they feel the scene the same way I did. Knowing that my choices to execute match the emotion I am going for is pretty cool.

Then there's this. But, it means something different. It is contrasting the 'pop' with the deriliction. Of course, if I think its necessary to explain, I probably missed.

jon

A Lost Marquee

2011-10-31T01:30:00.000-06:00

Not truely lost. I mean, it is right there and all. But, well, you know what I mean.

jon

Uptown

2011-10-30T01:30:00.000-06:00

While in line at Walgreens last night, there was a fairly old couple right in front of me. Normally I would say nice old couple, but I have no idea how nice they were. They could have been a the biggest asshole old couple for all I know. Sorry, digression. Anyway, as I was standing in line I had a sudden moment. Imagine how strange this all looks. I mean, not just only since they were my age, just generally how strange. I pulled my self out of the moment, looked around, and though weird. Just really weird. The best I could come up with in that 45 seconds before I had to pay for my card, is that our reality is so set by our childhood. When we are young everything is 'normal'. There is no offsetting reality to assess now against. So we just go along. When we get old, not only are we not "with it", but we have so much 'it' to compare now to. Then I started thinking about Abe Simpson, onions, and really lost my train of thought. The checkout lady was nice. But imagine, soon what's normal will be a world without pay phones. And it will be normal. But now, I get to live in a world where they are a strange anachronism hearkening to a time past. A time no simpler than now, but a time separate, apart. A time which I will never get to live in again. So damn strange.

jon

Happy Birthday Kat

2011-10-29T03:00:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

From Kat

WOOO!!!!!!!
( I really hope I have the right day )

jon

Just Another

2011-10-28T03:00:00.000-06:00

I think you would have a harder time finding a store front with a business in it than the other way around when it comes to North Ave.
jon

A Busy Street Bare

2011-10-27T02:00:00.000-06:00

I must admit, I sort of cheated on this one. This is actually quite a busy street. Some may know it as North Avenue. I just waited a couple of cycles just a block away from a stop light on a major intersection. Still, great effect if not 'truthful'
jon

Even the Pawn Shop?

2011-10-26T01:30:00.000-06:00

What sort of world do we live in, where pawn shops cannot survive. A travesty I tell you, a travesty.

jon

Good Spot

2011-10-25T01:00:00.000-06:00

A good spot to make a call I guess. You can't actually use the phone. Seeing as someone has taken it. But, you could still stand here on your cell phone. And that counts for something. Right?
jon

Judy's Red Hots

2011-10-24T16:35:00.000-06:00

The wreckage of an ecomony past liters the north side of Milwaukee. Someone's small business dream left to rot away. Empty parking lots and stores without wares. It is really a shame.
jon

A Little 'Trava

2011-10-22T02:00:00.000-06:00

I'm not one for shooting the Calatrava (Quadracci Pavilion?) very often. A combination of "it's been done" and "it's been done better than I ever could" make for a difficult subject. Photography is sometimes like dating, you pretend you are the first one there. That it is your composition, that your the first one to see it that way. In effect thinking your eye has graced the presence of the scene like no other. When you see commonly photographed items, you cannot but help think of oneself as retreading where many have gone. Or even worse, finding a shot after you post your own of the same scene done much better from days, months, even years earlier. Though, sometimes you think you've gotten the best shot no matter how many have been taken, almost making it all better. But then, you still come find out how low on the list of great ones you really are. It is all rather emasculating. The photography. Really, I'm talking about the photography.

jon

Let Them Eat Cake

2011-10-21T01:30:00.000-06:00

Tasty, tasty cake. Now, if only I hadn't hosed the scheduling we'd be probably be getting a Simma's Cake. As of now, it is up in the air.

It Could Have Been 1987

2011-10-20T03:00:00.000-06:00

Then I saw this and really started to wonder, did I travel back time to grade school? I mean, are the "Goodfellas" suddenly in Milwaukee? What is going on here?!?!

jon

I Thought They Were Extinct

2011-10-19T02:30:00.000-06:00

Can I get a prize or something? You aren't suppose to find these anymore. And what gives? A phone call is still only a quarter?!?! Do drug dealers have better negotiating skills than the rest of us? I could have sworn prices everywhere else went up since grade school.

jon

Lil' Blue Door

2011-10-18T04:00:00.000-06:00

It suddenly occurs to me, you have no perspective on the size of this door. It could be eight feet tall, or three feet tall. I shot it at a flat angle to reduce distortion, and have pretty much relieved the photo of scale. I mean, we have a general idea of the size of a brick, but not enough to truly get an idea of what's going on. It looks like a normal 7 foot tall door. It isn't. Not at all. It isn't tiny, but just a little smaller than what one would expect. A serious 'croucher' for someone like me. Well, enjoy the illusion.

jon

The Only Good Thing

2011-10-17T03:00:00.000-06:00

Blight and decay make for great pictures. If only they were the exception and not the rule in this town. (Sad face)

jon

Soup's On

2011-10-16T03:00:00.000-06:00

And it is delicious. As I may have mentioned, we never get to go out to the various soup houses around Milwaukee. Generally, they are only open during the daytime on weekdays, making it difficult for weekenders like ourselves.

But, this time Soup Bros just happened to be open. They were catering to a private event and open to the public. The greatest combination ever. For us.

I cannot believe I forgot to take a picture of the soup. Amazing! You have to go. Warm cheddar soup on blustery fall day. Mmm Mmm good.

jon

Everyone's Favorite

2011-10-15T03:00:00.000-06:00

But, she's mine!

Ha.

jon

No Good.

2011-10-14T03:00:00.000-06:00

I happen to not have any 'good' pictures of the water tower on North Avenue. In fact, this is probably my only picture with it as subject. So, good enouf I say!

jon

Fairy Princess...... Apartment Building?

2011-10-13T02:30:00.000-06:00

Ya know, you live somewhere your entire life and you'd think you'd notice the fairy princess apartment building at the end of a major street. But, noooo, it takes until you are old and almost out of wonderment. By almost out of wonderment, I mean not at all. Check this crazy thing out!

jon

Dog Races, Horse Races

2011-10-12T03:00:00.000-06:00

Canebury Park. For one day it was home to more than just horse races. It was also home to all you could eat free hot dogs, "please only two at a time", and the world championship wiener dog races.

First, The horse races.

He just stared, and stared at me as they rode by. Getting whipped the whole time. It was eerie how the horse just singled me out. It also could have been because of my giant camera. I didn't cause them to lose, they were already in fourth.

A different number 3. The strength is amazing. I highly doubt they aren't drugged up. What is the horse version of steroids?

Those jockey's are awfully confident. It would scare the snot out of me. You can feed the companion horses as they come out. Which Samaria thought was awesome.

Eventually they would go back to the stables. Which were huge. It is hard to imagine that this huge complex was supported by gambling. Man, people really love gambling.

The announcer even suggested side-bets on the wiener dog races! Gamblor, how will we ever defeat you?

jon

Not Sexual

2011-10-11T02:00:00.000-06:00

Not really anyway. This moment did lead my most offensive, hilarious, wonderful animated .gif yet,

Jon

When Kat's Away

2011-10-10T02:30:00.000-06:00

That could be the title to so many posts its unbelievable. Or, is it unbelievable how many it couldn't?

When the girls, plus Ryan, were shopping at Macy's I let myself out.

I had never really walked around downtown, and this was to be my only chance. It was like escape from Alcatraz. If the prisonor's had asked politely and the guards wanted them to have a nice time so they said O.K.

Anyway, I think it is time Milwaukee brings back the Brady Street as foot traffic only idea. I mean, every town has it, why not Milwukee? It is really fun to be able to have carless streets. Just ask Madison.

jon

Yeah Breakfast!

2011-10-09T02:30:00.000-06:00

Bagels and locks. Capers and cream cheese. I thought it was all perfect. Until I discovered red onions and sprouts. Yeah.

Also, clocks on locks. Yea rhymes!

jon

The Rabbit Won

2011-10-08T02:30:00.000-06:00

I know what you heard. It's not true at all. After losing, the turtle ran around telling everyone he won. On every corner, in every barber shop. Meanwhile, the guilt was so bad he couldn't go to work. What if they had heard? What if the rabbit's side of the story was heard in Turtletown? Does anyone personally know the rabbit? The stress was overbearing. At first the turtle would skip work, but come home every night. Maybe a little tipsy, maybe a little drunk. When he felt like making an excuse, it was just happy hour with the boys. But, when it became day after day, week after week, turtle's family knew something was wrong. Bills with URGENT written on them. Phone calls throughout dinner. Short tempers abounded. Soon, turtle couldn't face his own family. At first they were realived when turtle didn't come home, however they would soon start to feel a deep sadness. Rabbit ran an add in the local paper setting the record straight. It became clear, turtle couldn't maintain the house of cards he built for himself. Turtle's family started looking. Too old for milk cartons, and his reputation too battered to reach out to the media, postering the neighborhood was the last choice. Unfortunately, it was too late. Turtle was found with an empty bottle of vodka in an alley adjacent from the plasma donation center. This was rock bottom. Turtle never found his way out. The lesson, never set expectations to high, or you'll end up like turtle.

jon

Before the Cream Sets Out To Long

2011-10-07T02:00:00.000-06:00

You must whip it!!!!!

jon

Nexus.

2011-10-06T03:00:00.000-06:00

The oft talked about and rarely seen nexus, a pay phone and corner store. You saw it here first. Or last. I forget.

jon

This is why they dominate the Internet

2011-10-06T02:00:00.000-06:00

Even despite my clear, and well known, disgust with cats. They are just to fuzzy and cute.

Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww

jon

Moo Joos and More

2011-10-05T02:30:00.000-06:00

Again, obsessively taking pictures of my beer. It is quite an odd thing.

On occasion, I do go back to remember what I drank. But, mostly to remind me of something great, instead of avoiding something bad.

There is just so much average beer out there. Some places, like Furthermore, find a couple of unique flavors and nail it. Just absolutely crush it.

Oscura is just another example. Ryan thought it was the best. I'm quite convinced that this is only true because it is full of caffeine. Lots and lots of caffeine. Mmm, caffeine.

I cannot for the life of me remember what this guy tastes like.
jon

Last Bastion of the Corner Store

2011-10-05T02:00:00.000-06:00

Odd realization. May be racist, may be wrong, but here it is. Why do al these mom and pop bodegas survive in the bad parts of town? I mean, you down see the local food guy in fancy parts of town. The larger companies and corporations merely imitate the local guy. Strange.
jon

Schwin

2011-10-04T02:00:00.000-06:00

I like shiny thnigs. And metallic things. And am just so happy when people put shiny and metallic together.
jon

Caaaaaa - noe

2011-10-03T02:00:00.000-06:00

It has been an entire summer since we kayaked the Milwaukee river. Might it be time to canoe again?

jon

You so Crazy!

2011-10-02T02:00:00.000-06:00

Holly, you so crazy. Why are you rolling around on the ground like that? Squirrel poop? Oh, that does sound like fun.
jon

The Fountain Style

2011-10-01T01:00:00.000-06:00

As I mentioned way back in the Paris series, fountains are a bid difficult to photograph. As part of what makes them great is the size, that feeling that they are so much bigger. That they impress through imposing.

At the same time, they are full of detail, whimsy, and fine artistic work.

So, I decided I would make a "fountain style". Though I'm sure this isn't the first incarnation, it seems to work quite well. Get a picture of the whole piece in context. Thus the people admiring above, then get shots of the details.

For instance, this delightfully drunken baby.

Which leads me to believe these men are purging at the vomitorium during a great wine party.

All hail Bacchus! Even if it isn't really Bacchus, we must always remember to hail him. Her?

jon