Birmingham Alabama Daily Photo

Birmingham Rouge - A Kid's Eye View

2012-02-03T00:01:00.001-06:00

The playground equipment at Birmingham's new Railroad Park is irresistible for kids and photographers alike.

Alabama Gives Day - What If Every Child Could Read?

2012-02-02T00:01:00.000-06:00

Today, February 2, marks a statewide initiative to raise much needed donations for Alabama's nonprofit agencies. Although each and everyone is deserving, I chose a program near and dear to my heart.

STAIR Birmingham's first site was at my church Independent Presbyterian. Now thanks to willing volunteers there are sites in Ensley, Woodlawn, Norwood and Avondale.

Their website says it all.

STAIR, an acronym for Start the Adventure in Reading, works with second grade children who are reading below grade level in an effort to give those children, who have not been successful in learning to read in first grade, a chance to catch up with their peers. Research shows the optimum time to master reading skills is by the end of second grade.

Each child attends STAIR two days a week and meets with a trained volunteer. The structured lessons engage the student by using phonics, sight words, alphabet review, and games. During the course of the school year, the students develop reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills. To date, students who complete the STAIR program improve their reading test scores by an average of 96%.

I have had the privilege of being their photographer for several years and put together a short movie that you can see HERE and also make a much needed and appreciated donation.

http://algives.razoo.com/story/Stair-Of-Birmingham

CDP Theme Day - Animals

2012-02-01T00:01:00.010-06:00

SLURP!!

If you get down on "dog level" you will usually get a big SLURP on your lens!

Pepper Place Market

My entry in the City Daily Photo Blog Theme Day....ANIMALS!

Today my City Daily Photo blog friends around the world are posting their favorite ANIMAL shot. Click HERE to see them all!

Fuelman

2012-01-31T00:01:00.001-06:00

This sign, which seemed to be vintage is hanging on Highland Avenue at a gas station. I tried to Google more information and found a similar sign for auction for a pretty hefty price here. Regardless, I thought it was a pretty cool sky with the blue sky behind it.

Coffee With My Friend

2012-01-30T00:01:00.005-06:00

Last Thursday morning I met my friend , mentor, and marvelous photographer Doug Stocks, for coffee at O'Henry's coffee shop in downtown Homewood. Doug and I had some catching up to do. He'd been to his beloved England last November, and I'd been to my beloved.......well you know! It was a chilly and very rainy morning but we spent a delightful hour together talking travels and of course photography. Before I left, I snapped this wall of beans.

Sunday Church Series - First Pres...the balcony

2012-01-29T00:01:00.000-06:00

I loved poking around First Presbyterian Church. The balcony level was pretty special. Look what I found.

Closing Time

2012-01-28T00:01:00.001-06:00

Gilchrist in Mt. Brook Village is hopping during the day. It's always full of breakfast and lunch customers and the after school kids. They started out as a drugstore many years ago, but now it's just their soda fountain that keeps them busy. Their freshly squeezed limeades are what they are known for and I'm pretty sure they still have the old fashioned milkshake machines.

Where Little Princesses Shop and Party

2012-01-27T00:01:00.000-06:00

A Tiny Kingdom in Mt. Brook Village has it all figured out. They offer party space for boys and girls as well as all the trappings. Need a tutu or crown? Star Wars paraphernalia? They have it and much, much more!

Spit and Polish

2012-01-26T00:01:00.002-06:00

One of Mt. Brook's finest giving the truck the final once over.

Portraits - Space One Eleven

2012-01-25T00:01:00.002-06:00

My mission through this blog has always been to highlight the good people of Birmingham doing good things. Space One Eleven fills that bill. I was recently there for another event that I will highlight later, but had a look around this gallery filled with the wonderful art created by Birmingham's youth. The very ones that need the creative experiences that Space One Eleven offers.

Here is what they are all about:

Space One Eleven is a visual arts nonprofit founded in Birmingham, Alabama in 1986. Our mission is to provide professional opportunities for artists, create a forum for public understanding of contemporary art, and offer arts education to area youth.

Key to the philosophic foundation of Space One Eleven is the belief that art is where you find it, whether from a Birmingham artist, a nationally recognized artist or a creative youth in a local Birmingham neighborhood. Art is informed by place, time, and experience. Run by artists, formed by place, and celebrating cutting-edge art that stretches the imagination, SOE incorporates these principles into all of our programs as we deal with art, community and public discourse.

The Uniform House of Dixie

2012-01-24T00:01:00.002-06:00

I posted a "ghost sign" last week here and I so enjoyed the comments from those of you that like to find them in your cities and from those that, like me, just learned the term. Here's another one from downtown Birmingham, 2nd Avenue if memory serves ( which it doesn't so much any more).

BADP On The Road - Oak Hill Cemetery , Jasper Alabama

2012-01-23T00:01:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I had the pleasure of traveling to Jasper, Alabama for a special baptism. It was a foggy Sunday morning, and we were a little early, so my son-in-law Jason was kind enough to pull over at Oak Hill Cemetery (1880's) cemetery and humor me!

City Lights

2012-01-22T00:01:00.000-06:00

Shortly before I left for Paris, I joined some good friends for drinks at The Club atop Red Mountain. Of course I took my camera because the view from the terrace can't be beat!

Downtown Ghost Sign

2012-01-21T00:01:00.004-06:00

Lem Motlow, Jack Daniel's nephew had one of his distilleries right here in B'ham. This downtown "ghost sign" on the corner at 2nd Avenue North seems to be in good condition. I'm glad my city is preserving these signs!

Wikipedia is back up and running and gives this definition of a ghost sign:
A ghost sign is an old hand-painted advertising signage that has been preserved on a building for an extended period of time. The signage may be kept for its nostalgic appeal, or simply indifference by the owner.

I thank my friend, NY blogger Daryl for tipping me off to the term when she visited me here last summer. Now I'm on the prowl for more!

All Lined Up

2012-01-20T00:01:00.001-06:00

When Homewood did a major renovation on their main park on Central Avenue, they chose metal posts that "undulate" and have taken on a lovely patina. I feature them HERE but liked this closeup as well, with the oakleaf hydrangeas in the background.

Art Walk Reflection

2012-01-19T00:01:00.001-06:00

My friend and talented Birmingham photographer Karim Shamsi Basha reflected in a doorway at Art Walk last fall. I was taking a class from Karim, and as we wandered Morris Avenue in search of photographs, I caught the photographer himself!

We're Hobos ma'am Part III - Bracelets and Rings

2012-01-17T00:01:00.001-06:00

This is the third in my series. If you've not followed the previous posts, click HERE and Here.

This young man was braiding bracelets and rings from balls of twine to sell on the street.

Meeps Ties One On

2012-01-16T00:01:00.000-06:00

My friends on Facebook have enjoyed seeing my Meeps as she has "willingly" modeled a growing number of my scarves and a few necklaces as well. It all started when I shared the Youtube video, 25 Ways to Wear a Scarf. I dressed her up one day and she didn't scratch my eyes out so I have continued to push my luck. There are murmurings about a possible calendar or book. Who knows, she could need an agent before you know it. Today, she models my favorite.

Stacks of Classics

2012-01-15T00:01:00.000-06:00

Memories are made of this.

Renaissance Records, Five Points South

Keep Your Eye on the Ball

2012-01-14T00:01:00.000-06:00

My friend Terri Hamilton has been teaching tennis to kiddos for years. She's so positive and enthusiastic, they all love taking from her. I found her one Saturday morning at the park and tennis courts on Overton Road in Mountain Brook. Her cute student was happy to show me her swing!

Birmingham Rouge - Clang, Clang

2012-01-13T00:01:00.000-06:00

This vintage fire truck has been lovingly restored, right down to the bell!

Whistle Stop Festival

Irondale, AL

Gallette du roi....

2012-01-12T00:01:00.004-06:00

Well in Paris everyone is buying up these divine cakes for the celebration of Gallete des Rois (Epiphany.) I have another reason to post this photo from Paris. Eric Tenin, the creator of Paris Daily Photo AND CityDaily Photo blogs is having a birthday today! For quite a while, I've called Eric "Le Roi de CDP", so it's only fitting that we celebrate in this way. I'm in Paris and will be wishing Eric a BON ANNIVERSAIRE in person tomorrow evening. I'll give him your best! :)
V

Zig, zag, zig,zag.....

2012-01-11T00:01:00.005-06:00

Morris Avenue

Fire escapes are eye candy!

With Legs in the AIr!

2012-01-10T00:01:00.000-06:00

So this is what the chairs do after hours at Bottega Restaurant!

My Suitcase is Packed

2012-01-09T00:01:00.001-06:00

I still remember the Samsonite train case ( a smaller version of the one here) my grandparents bought me as a pre-teen. Zoe's Consignment Shop on Clairmont Avenue won my heart with this display. I pack for Paris much lighter now, but back then flying was I think, a lot more special. I have fond memories of my very fashionable mom visiting us in Neenah, Wisconsin in November '71. She got off the plane dressed in a wool coat, heels, and mink pill box! Those were the days!

Sunday Church Series - The Cathedral of Saint Paul II

2012-01-08T00:01:00.001-06:00

The ceiling of St. Paul's Cathedral, in downtown Birmingham, is a beautiful as any I've seen in France.

We're Hobos Ma'am Part II - Man's Best Friend

2012-01-07T00:01:00.001-06:00

Obviously these two were pals that traveled together. I'll be honest, I was more afraid of the collar than the dog!

See yesterday's post for Part I of this series.

We're Hobos Ma'am Part I - Guitar Man

2012-01-06T00:01:00.002-06:00

About a month ago, my friend Patty and I took a Saturday afternoon to go out for lunch in Five Points South and then we walked around the area looking for photos. We walked up on a small group of men and Patty and I started chatting and she asked, "What are ya'll doing here?". One answered, "We're hobos Ma'am." I'll be honest, I haven't heard that term used since I was in elementary school, and we dressed as hobos for Halloween when we didn't have a costume. One played his guitar, another cuddle his dog, another made bracelets and rings from twine, while we took their photographs. No one asked us for money. Apparently they move from city to city and it's a way of life that they have chosen. It's not for me to judge their lifestyle. I wish them well. Today is the first of a short series of photographs from that day.

Hmmmmmm

2012-01-05T00:01:00.001-06:00

You tell me. What are "Old Men's Mags"? I am sure I'll get some really good comments on this one.
On the other hand, maybe we don't want to know.... but they were half price!

Arctic Blast in B'ham?

2012-01-04T00:01:00.000-06:00

The weatherman says we're getting some sort of "Arctic blast" this week. I think that translates to "winter has finally arrived in Birmingham." This happy fellow, that hangs out in the window of Mountain Brook Flower Shop most of the year, should be very happy about that!

Hey Cupid!!

2012-01-03T00:01:00.008-06:00

These beautiful handmade arrows, by artist Sara Smith, are crafted from recycled wood.

Bellewether, in English Village.

And Sam Cooke has a song for you today right here.

Dining Alfresco

2012-01-02T00:01:00.001-06:00

at Vino in English Village is a great new place to try. This upscale restaurant and wine bar is owned by veteran Birmingham restauranteur Al Rabiee. I had the pleasure of chatting with him not long ago and taking some photographs. When I left he brought me a bag of his wife's DIVINE apple fritters. Try them!

Lately our weather has been so mild I'm sure they've had the fire pit blazing and patrons have enjoyed their lovely outside seating.

In 2012, Remember To...

2012-01-01T00:01:00.000-06:00

Kick up your heels!

Express yourself!

Dance like nobody's watching

BUT ALSO....

Feed the homeless

Let your voice be heard

Show compassion

Help those that need it the most

BUT REMEMBER TO ....

Stop and smell the roses.

and DON'T LET ANYONE RUFFLE YOUR TAIL FEATHERS!

Who Knew...

2011-12-31T00:01:00.001-06:00

that those root vegetables that are so GOOD for you, could be so gorgeous???

Eat Fresh, Eat Local at the Pepper Place Market 2012, is my newest calendar, now available, along with Paris Through My Lens 2012 on Zazzle right here!

Reverend Mickey...

2011-12-30T00:01:00.003-06:00

preaching to the faithful at the Church of Disney? No, just a fanciful arrangement I found upstairs at What's On Second? in downtown Birmingham. You just never know what you'll find, that's why I go so often!

Lines, Lines, Lines.....

2011-12-29T00:01:00.003-06:00

Homewood Park

This new year I'm offering a Birmingham calendar
Buy Fresh, Buy Local
At the Pepper Place Market
2012
Have a look right here!

Afternoon Light

2011-12-28T00:01:00.002-06:00

Winter seems to be the season when I have the time to share photographs taken during the year that just never seemed to make it to the blog. My daily photobloggers know the challenges that winter brings. I hope you won't object to some photographs from my archives from time to time for the next few months.

Today, a beautiful garden in the English Village area of Birmingham

Good Advice For The New Year

2011-12-27T00:01:00.000-06:00

My Mother's Words

by Boston Sculptor Jonathan Borofsky

Bellewether, English Village

Mother's Bells

2011-12-26T00:01:00.001-06:00

On Christmas Eve eve, we gather at our neighbors' for a lovely, old fashion carol sing. Two baby grands with four pianists play for us while we all eat and sip and catch up with one another. Then, out come the song sheets and we sing our hearts out. Their home is a wonderful old Forest Park jewel that has been lovingly restored. In the glass bookcases beside the fireplace, this year I discovered Carolyn's mother's bell collection. What a treasure.

What can I give Him..

2011-12-25T00:01:00.002-06:00

Charlotte Woodson Antiques, Mt. Brook Village

Colin's Creatures

...poor as I am?

If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb;

If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part;

Yet what can I give Him...give my heart.

Christina Rossetti

In a Bleak Midwinter sung for you here.

Waiting For Santa

2011-12-24T00:01:00.002-06:00

Meeps and I are enjoying our new home this Christmas. We even have a fireplace so Meeps has been waiting and watching for Santa.

As my Facebook friends know, I've been posting photographs of Meeps all dolled up in assorted scarves and holiday bling. Today she chose this photo to share with you all.

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and
Joyous Holiday!

A Quiet Holiday Moment

2011-12-23T00:01:00.001-06:00

This is a meaningful, but busy time for so many of us. However you are celebrating, I hope you take time to relax, remember, reflect, and rejoice!

Deck the Deck With ....

2011-12-22T00:01:00.004-06:00

SNOW! Some of you may remember that last Christmas Day right here in B'ham, it SNOWED!!! Our weather this week has been in the sixties, so I don't look for a repeat, but thought it would be fun to have a look back to Christmas past. This was taken on my daughter Kathleen's deck last Christmas. White Christmas in Dixie. Who knew!

Paris Through My Lens 2012 by VKJONES
Begin selling my art online at zazzle.

Time Flying?

2011-12-21T00:01:00.001-06:00

I just thought it was cool when I looked up one night and the clock faces seemed to be floating over Crestline Village!

Paris Through My Lens 2012 by VKJONES
Join Zazzle.com's artist affiliate program

Old Timey Yard Santa

2011-12-20T00:01:00.004-06:00

Jim Reed's Museum of Fond Memories, of course! Does this Ho Ho bring back fond memories for you?

Paris Through My Lens 2012 by VKJONES
Join Zazzle.com's artist affiliate program

Vintage Record Heaven

2011-12-19T00:01:00.000-06:00

Renaissance Records in the Five Points South district is a fun and funky place to browse around. Old music buffs could wander in and never be seen again. Nice to know places like this can stay in business when they're up against the Big Boys and the internet. Owner Gary Bourgeois has owned it since 2003. He's fun to talk to, tell him I sent you!

2020 11th Avenue South

Birmingham, AL 35205

Sunday Church Series - All Saints' Chapel, Sewanee-

2011-12-18T00:01:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago I traveled to Sewanee-The University of the South in Tennessee with some very dear friends. We made the trip to attend their Service of 9 Lessons and Carols, one that draws attendees from all over the south and who stand in line for hours to get a seat. for the three services. My friends have been going for over 20 years and I was delighted to make the trip with them this year. It is a beautiful campus, chapel and a candlelight service. I'm looking forward to next year already. Today, a few photos for you.

Sweet Faces of Christmas

2011-12-17T00:01:00.009-06:00

Shooting parades is NOT my forte. I find them crowded, fast moving (duh!), and often with really low light. I struggle trying to capture just a few that for me represent the spirit of the event. After shooting this year's Homewood Christmas Parade, I was convinced I had very little to show for it, but these two sweet faces made it all worthwhile.

I have published two new Paris weekly calendars on Blurb, in color and black and white.

Paris Through My Lens
2012 | Make Your Own Book

Santa Needs to Shop Here!

2011-12-16T00:01:00.001-06:00

Mary Charles' Doll House in Mountain Brook is a charming little shop that offers new and antique dolls, doll houses, furniture and accesories. She's been in business for over 40 years. This precious little shop is a delight for any little girl.

Mary Charles' Doll House

2820 Petticoat Lane

Mt. Brook Village

Still Shining After All These Years

2011-12-15T00:01:00.003-06:00

About 60 years ago, Homewood resident Douglass McConnell took some steel, wielded it together and made a giant star that was hung at the top of the hill on 18th Street in Homewood. Well, amazingly it's still around and is one of Homewood's most beloved traditions. Recently the city rededicated it, and you can read about it here. The photo in the article is one of mine from an earlier Christmas. You Birmingham readers will recognize Vulcan in the background.

I'm pleased to announce that Paris Through My Lens 2012 weekly planner is now for sale on BLURB!

Midnight Train

2011-12-14T00:01:00.001-06:00

Downtown Birmingham

Flamingo Love

2011-12-13T00:01:00.001-06:00

Magnolia's Cards and Gifts in Five Points South. Go there for the quirkiest gag gifts, and the funniest and yes, naughtiest cards in town!

It's My Blog.......

2011-12-12T00:01:00.002-06:00

and I'll post my cute grandchildren on a whim. Taken last Christmas Day when it started snowing in Birmingham. I've lived here most of my life and NEVER had it snow on Christmas until 2010. Laura Kate sends her sweet wishes for a magical holiday season. ( The cute pink cap I knitted for big sister Lindley when she was a BABY. We've gotten some miles out of that one!)

Sunday Church Series - First Pres

2011-12-11T00:01:00.001-06:00

A few weeks ago I attended the Pancake Breakfast to benefit First Light Women's Shelter. It was held downtown at First Presbyterian Church, and rightly so, First Pres (as it is affectionately known) founded this wonderful shelter for women and children. My church actively supports FIrst Light so I have had the privilege of serving dinner there on a number of occasions. The Pancake Breakfast is an annual event and I enjoyed a delicious breakfast and later Re. Shannon Webster was kind enough to show me around the Sanctuary and allow me to take a few photographs.

Hanging Around

2011-12-10T00:01:00.001-06:00

This gorgeous red maple at my church apparently decided to hang around and be a part of the holiday decorations this year. IPC's 62nd Holiday House Tour is this weekend and features not only 5 homes but of course the beautifully decorated church sanctuary, chapel, parlor and tea in the Great Hall. Tickets may be purchased at the church or any of the homes. Proceeds benefit so many of IPC's wonderful missions and community outreach.

Meet the Newest Reindeer....Glizten!

2011-12-09T00:01:00.001-06:00

Artist: Merrilee Challiss

Oh I wish I had this hanging over my mantle this Christmas. Where can you lay your hands on this? Why Charm on Second Avenue of course. It's a great and funky place to shop downtown with vintage and handmade jewelry, handbags, scarves, art, and all sorts of delights. GO!

Charm

2329 2nd Avenue North

Shop the World This Christmas

2011-12-08T00:01:00.003-06:00

My Chappell loved this cute frog cap so much that
Katleen bought it and she wore it out of the store!

Looking for unusual handcrafted gifts this Christmas? Well Soujourns in downtown Birmingham is the place you need to shop. Owner Melissa Kendrick opened this unique store in 2005, and is committed to supporting the fair trade movement. Every item in this shop is created by artisans that receive a fair wage for their handcrafted goods. I visited her new location on 3rd Avenue recently with four of my grandchildren and we had to drag them out of there. It's full to the brim with art and colorful, well made items from around the world. What could be a better place to spend your Christmas dollars this year?

Soujourns
Adventure-Art-Peace
2017 3rd Avenue North

Y-L-F

2011-12-07T00:01:00.001-06:00

Last Sunday, I introduced you to the terrific kids that make up this year's Youth Leadership Forum. I spent time with them at Railroad Park as they carried out an photography assignment. They were assigned to groups of about 9 and as I wandered the park I took some photos myself. This group was being quite creative as they used their shadows to spell out Y-L-F. The groups were given the task of photographing Railroad Park as they would for a brochure and the catch was that they must only shoot 24 photographs, as in a roll of film. My intent was that they would be thoughtful as they composed their photographs and really thinks before they "pulled the trigger". I was very impressed with their work. They worked and planned their shots as a group. Afterwards, their leaders downloaded all of their images and we selected a large album of the work we felt followed the criteria. I couldn't be more proud!

Let's Get This Holiday Started!

2011-12-06T00:01:00.001-06:00

Nothing like a Christmas Parade to get you in the Christmas spirit. Last week I attended the Homewood parade and I thought I'd share a few with you today. It's was chock full of homemade floats with shepherds ( Mary and Joseph?) throwing candy and Santa cheerleaders slinging Mardi Gras beads. I think here in the south, our various holiday parades have morphed into one! Oh and I guess you're wondering if Santa showed up. He did, but I'm saving him for another day!:)_

Dear Santa...

2011-12-05T00:02:00.000-06:00

I think Santa still prefers snail mail, don't you? Looks like his in-box is full!

Reed Books/Museum of Fond Memories

Art Day with the YLF

2011-12-04T00:01:00.001-06:00

Last Thursday I had the privilege of meeting and working with the 44 area high school juniors that are participating in this year's Youth Leadership Forum, an outgrowth of the highly successful Leadership Birmingham. This elite group gathers once a month for a full day learning every aspect of our community. This month the focus was art, and I was was asked to talk with them about taking better photographs and guide them through a photography project at Railroad Park. After hearing the day's agenda, I asked if I could tag along! They started with a drum circle with John Scalisi, and after our outing at the park, they moved to the Birmingham Museum of Art for a guided tour and lunch with area actors, musicians, and videographers. For the afternoon, they were divided into interest groups for recording, cooking, dance and drama. A full day of learning, working and learning together. Thank you YLF for letting me share the day with you. I hope I can join you again! ( Of course there will be more photos in the days to come!)

All Is Calm, All Is Bright

2011-12-03T00:01:00.000-06:00

Quiet night at the Shades Valley Optimist Club's Christmas Tree lot. These nice folks have been selling trees at Shades Cahaba Elementary on Oxmoor Road for as long as I can remember. They do good work in the community. Please give them your business.

Catch a Ride

2011-12-02T00:01:00.001-06:00

The carousel at the Birmingham Zoo is magical at night. I shot this last December at Zoo Light Safari, which will be held this year December 9-11.

CDP Theme Day - Action Shots

2011-12-01T00:01:00.001-06:00

It's the first of the month.......already and you know what that means after 3 1/2 years.....City Daily Photoblog Theme Day. This month's theme, voted on by the thousands of CDP bloggers around the world, is Action Shots. I liked this one taken last summer at The Magic City Art Connection in Linn Park. These dancers were colorful, talented and fun to photograph.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

2011-11-30T00:01:00.004-06:00

I'll take the red one with the green stem!

I hope you bought your baby one of these very cute knitted hats at the Pepper Place Market! It's been very cold the last two days with a few snowflakes spotted this morning. Last Saturday, I didn't even need a jacket! Fall and winter in Alabama is always interesting.

City Lights

2011-11-29T00:01:00.002-06:00

Last Saturday my friend Patty and I had a great photo shoot around town. We met up later at Brad Morton's studio for his show at his home and studio on 1st Avenue South. ( More photos to come.) As we were leaving she suggested that we cross the viaduct to see what photos we could find there. I caught her and the lights of downtown Birmingham. Thanks my friend.

The Face of Hope

2011-11-28T00:01:00.002-06:00

May it never be replaced with fear.

Sunday Church Series - The Tolling of the Bells

2011-11-27T00:01:00.001-06:00

One of my favorite Birmingham churches, the beautiful Holy Trinity - Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral on Birmingham's southside. I've featured it here and here and many other posts..

A Rose Among the Thorns

2011-11-26T00:01:00.001-06:00

Even the alley behind Bare Hands Gallery's Dia de los Meurtos Festival was decorated for the occasion.

Show Biz

2011-11-25T00:01:00.000-06:00

Jim Reed owner of Reed Books /TheMuseum of Fond Memories must have one zillion books in his eclectic shop and can usually lay his hands on just about anything you might want. The term "organized chaos" originate right here I think. Actually some or most ( how do you know?) are shelved in categories. That's how I found Audrey.

Thankful

2011-11-24T00:01:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families.

If you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one." Mother Teresa

Details

2011-11-23T00:01:00.003-06:00

The Massey Building, completed in 1925 is one of my downtown favorites. Have a look at the details and you'll see why.

B'ham Wiki says: ""Built in 1925, Massey Building was named for its original developer, R. W. Massey. It was designed by William Leslie Welton. Taking inspiration from Spanish Moorish architecture, the building features spiral-fluted columns and pointed elements atop the parapet meant to mimic minarets."

218 Richard Arrington Blvd. North

Belle Inspiration Magazine is featuring a number of my Christmas in Paris photographs this month. Have a look !

Leftovers

2011-11-22T00:01:00.001-06:00

I pulled off the highway near Harpersville a few weeks ago to photograph this cotton field, but it had already been picked. So all I have for you today is leftovers.

NO Diving!

2011-11-21T00:01:00.000-06:00

Until next summer.

Homewood Pool

Sunday Church Series - Preparations

2011-11-20T00:01:00.010-06:00

Saturday morning I slipped in the side door of the Cathedral of St. Paul. I was alone in this beautiful place except for this gentleman, hard at work getting the church ready for services.

Signs of the Times

2011-11-19T00:01:00.001-06:00

Admittedly Occupy Birmingham is small time compared to other cities, but here are a few of the faithful that I snapped at a red light yesterday. They want to have their voices heard. Thankfully we live in a country where that is possible!

STOP!!!

2011-11-18T00:01:00.000-06:00

... and take this shot through the windshield!

( With grandchildren in the backseat shaking their heads)

Morning on the Lake

2011-11-17T00:01:00.003-06:00

There's something about a screen door that reminds me of my childhood. It also reminds me of this song from way back. Grab a cup of coffee and a slice of that pumpkin bread and join me out here on the porch!

Moonlighting

2011-11-16T00:01:00.001-06:00

I'm not going to rant about how I feel about decorating for Christmas before Thanksgiving, but ...... everywhere you look, Christmas decorations are going up. I'll bet after a very long day wrapping lights around every tree in Mountain Brook, this guy's going to leave the tree lighting at home up to his wife!

Bragging Rights

2011-11-15T00:01:00.001-06:00

Admittedly I took this about a week ago ( picture more leaves on the ground), but our weather here in Birmingham has been pretty great considering it's the middle of November. Aside for a few chilly days, we are still enjoying some fine fall weather in shirt sleeves/sweaters and for some....running shorts. Another reason I love where I live!

Good Day Sunshine!!

2011-11-14T00:01:00.001-06:00

We interrupt this blog to bring you Martha and Ron Council's glorious ginkgo !

Returning the Salute

2011-11-13T00:01:00.001-06:00

I've been blogging here for over three years. Often I cover events over and over, hoping to find a new focus. This was my third Veteran's Day Parade, and while it's a wonderful event for my city, I wondered if I could capture anything different this year. As luck would have it, I met up with a Viet Nam veteran that I remembered from last year ( on the left). We reconnected and as we stood near each other during the parade, I was able to watch as the passing servicemen, young and old, give him a salute. The special moment I was looking for.

Hail and Farewell

2011-11-12T00:01:00.007-06:00

As the Veteran's Day Parade ended yesterday, I have no idea why I turned my camera straight into the afternoon sun and took this shot. I'm glad I did.

Thank a Veteran

2011-11-11T09:28:00.002-06:00

Baubles, Bangles and Beads

2011-11-11T00:01:00.000-06:00

Sweet Peas Garden Center in Homewood recently hosted a great little art and crafts show. This lucky little girl was getting some hands on experience melting glass for her very own bead, from Chris Champion.

Meet the Mud Cloth Artists from Groupe Bogolan Kasabané

2011-11-10T00:01:00.000-06:00

Two of the six artists that make up Groupe Bogolan Kasobané from Mali, West Africa joined the Gee's Bend Quilters as part of the week long workshop, Common Threads at the Alys Stephens Center at UAB.

Using handspun and handwoven cotton cloth, they apply a mixture of clay and plant dyes to the cloth.

Meet the Gee's Bend Quilters

2011-11-09T00:01:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was one I've looked forward to for many years. FINALLY, I was able to meet and photograph some of the now famous Gee's Bend quilters. They are here for the week participating in Common Threads at the Alys Stephens Center at UAB, along with Groupe Bogolon Kasobane mud cloth makers from Bamako, Mali. This partnership brings together textile artists from West Alabama and West Africa. It's free to the public and what I loved the most was the access to interact and move around and watch them work. I took a LOT of photographs, hung over their shoulders while they worked, and asked a million questions. Everyone was delightfully patient. The artists from Mali tolerated my weak French, and the Gee's Bend ladies even sang a few spirituals while they worked. I'm sorry I didn't have a video cam for that! Today I wanted you to meet these ladies, but this week I'll have more from both groups. I LOVE THIS "JOB"!

Autumn Show Stopper...

2011-11-08T00:01:00.000-06:00

or maybe a walk or run stopper. This tree along the Jemison Trail in Mt. Brook stops me every autumn. While it has the appearance of an evergreen, at this time of year there's not a green needle to be had. Maybe some of my expert readers can enlighten us. For now, enjoy the color.

Capturing the Sunset

2011-11-07T00:01:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago three dear friends and I gathered on Lake Martin for Girls' Night at the Lake. The weather was perfect, and I had my camera clicking almost nonstop (when I wasn't talking, laughing, eating and drinking wine). My good friend ( and former photography student) Angelyn couldn't let the sun set without a few snaps herself.

A Walk in the Park

2011-11-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

Saturday morning proved to be the perfect autumn weather for a visit to Overton Park. I caught these cute kiddos enjoying the sunshine!

Tailspin

2011-11-05T00:01:00.001-05:00

I attended a lovely 50th anniversary party for some friends last weekend at the Southern Museum of Flight. This is a terrific museum for your folks in the Birmingham area. I'm glad I remembered my camera!

Dia de los Muertos Festival II - Remembering Sara

2011-11-04T00:01:00.002-05:00

la Tour Eiffel, I think Sara would have loved this.

Two years ago, at this very festival, I met Sara Jones and her husband. She recognized me from my blog and if you knew Sara, you wouldn't be surprised that I got a big hug, and we became friends on the spot. We kept up via Facebook and I met her for coffee a few months later to help her plan a trip to Paris where they would be joined by her precious daughter. We ran into each other from time to time at the Pepper Place or at Art Price's openings. I wish I were a better writer and could describe Sara as she deserves. I will just say I'll always remember her gentle spirit, her smile... no her LAUGH, and joie de vivre. She was truly a blithe spirit and lived her life to the fullest. She is greatly missed.

Wednesday night as I turned the corner to the alley at the festival, at almost the exact spot where we first met, this stunning portrait of Sara by our friend Art Price took my breath. A loving tribute as only Art could create.

Dia de los Muertos Festival

2011-11-03T00:01:00.001-05:00

Bare Hands Gallery on 21st Street South was again the venue for Birmingham's Dia de los Muertos Festival. I arrived early and have many very special photographs to share in the days to come. We'll start with some of the faces of the festival.

Autumn Color - Liberty Cemetery

2011-11-02T00:01:00.001-05:00

Last week while staying at Lake Martin with some dear friends, we passed Liberty Cemetery. They were kind enough to go back later that afternoon so I could take a few photographs.

I Love a Parade!

2011-11-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I was lucky enough to be a photographer for the Mountain Brook Mystics Halloween Parade. It was great fun seeing the creative homemade neighborhood floats packed to the gills with very cute costumed kiddos, plus local businesses and of course cheerleaders, dancers, firemen and much more. I couldn't pick just one so you get a collage today!

PS I caught a Milky Way thrown from a float. Life is good!

Ghoulishly Fascinating

2011-10-31T00:01:00.000-05:00

Since Kate Middleton's wedding "fascinators" have taken the country by storm. At The Lamb's Ear Ltd. in Crestline Village, even the ( sparkly) skeletons are looking a très chic. Happy Halloween!

Party in the Lou

2011-10-30T00:01:00.002-05:00

On a Shoestring Antiques

Bluff Park

My friends all know that watching/following baseball is about the last thing on earth I'd choose to do. Well I heard a rumor that the St. Louis Cardinals were in the World Series and I understand they won it! Since my dear blog friend Bob Crowe ( St. Louis Daily Photo) is a die hard fan , I thought I'd post these well worn gloves ( mitt???) in honor of his home team. Now....back to Auburn football!

Autumn at Lake Martin - View From the Slough Part I

2011-10-29T00:01:00.000-05:00

Today we take a little trip down Hwy. 280 to Coosa County. Why you ask? Well my friends and I gathered for a "Girls' Night on Lake Martin" on Thursday. The weather was perfect, the food delicious, the company delightful and the photo ops were so plentiful I could hardly put my camera down long enough to refill my wine glass!

Meet the Author

2011-10-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

Meet Ronnie Davis. UPS deliveryman by day, published author by night. Ronnie's autobiography, Ingredients of a Man, chronicles the ups and downs he has experienced in his life and how cooking has been a continued source of satisfaction since childhood. You can buy his book on Amazon here, and at Charlotte Woodson Antiques in Mountain Brook and other Birmingham area locations.

A Photographer's Delight-The Vivian Maier Exhibit

2011-10-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

Kevin McCollister and Petrea Burchard admire a piece that they agreed was their favorite

One of the highlights of my trip to Los Angeles last week was the opportunity to join my fellow bloggers at Stephen Cohen Gallery and the see a small but powerful collection of street photographer Vivian Maier's remarkable work. Maier died at the age of 83 a virtual unknown. In 2007, John Maloof bought a storage container almost sight unseen. He then discovered the amazing contents. Maier left over 3,000 prints, 100,000 negatives and approximately 800 rolls of undeveloped film. Since that time, he has worked tirelessly to catalog and exhibit her work. You will want to read more here.

Stephen Cohen Gallery

7358 Beverly Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90036