Sole Man II

Some of you might remember my trip to the Goodyear Shoe Hospital last summer. You met Andrew then. I was prowling around in the archives and found this photograph that I'd forgotten about. I love the way his hands are illuminated by the small light on his machinery. That reminds me that maybe I need to pay Andrew another visit!

Our friend Kim (Seattle DP) suggested I might have started a Table and Chairs series this week. Well you know, she might be onto something!  I have a few more that I'll post in the next week.  Thanks Kim.  I'm always game for something new around here!

TWO THINGS CHALLENGE: East/West

Up until a few days ago I thought I was going to have to let this TWO THINGS CHALLENGE pass me by.  Thanks to D.C. Confidential, who kindly gave me a few hints, I am able to be a team player this week. Merci my friend.

Here goes:  This gorgeous red  Chinese basket and vase are obviously my EAST, and these well worn and nicely polished cowboy boots are my WEST.  There you have it!

( Christopher House Antiques and Goodyear Shoe Hospital)

CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER!  The American Institute of Architects  has a new series titled THE SHAPE OF AMERICA.  In the category highlighting the St. Louis Arch, I am sure you can guess that our very own Strangetastes  from St.Louis Daily Photo captured 14 out of the 19 photographs that they selected.  Recognition well deserved!  We however,  can see a fabulous Arch photo each and every Thursday. 

The Tune du Jour is "L'hymne a l'amour" by Romane.  Stick around and give this one a listen. You'll like it!

Discover Romane!

Boot Scootin'

Contrary to popular belief, everyone in Alabama does not  wear boots.   However,  they are the favored footwear for many a little boy ( and  a few big boys. too.)  The top photo shows my little guy sporting a pair of  hand me down boots that he begs to wear day and night.

Meanwhile at the Goodyear Shoe Hospital, this sassy pair of high heeled pumps seems to be making a move on these mighty fine cowboy boots!

The Tune du Jour is, of course,  "These Boots Are Made For Walking" by Nancy Sinatra.

Momma Mia!

Last Tuesday  you met Andrew from the Goodyear Shoe Hospital in downtown Birmingham.  I promised a return visit.  Meet Momma, the shop mascot.  Rhonda, the owner, found Momma and her littermates in the parking lot out back.  Momma has been Rhonda's faithful companion ever since.  While we were there photographing, Momma gave me many resounding meows, along with several scowls  that would stop traffic.  When Rhonda urged me to pet her, naturally I balked.  I nervously held out my hand,  fully expecting a mauling.  To my surprise, after a quick sniff, she rubbed up against my hand like I was her lost long friend!  Momma's encore was to "sit" on command.  After a few minutes of coaxing, she made us all proud.(See the photo below.)   I may be more of a cat person than I thought.

I have only been part of the City Daily Photo community for about 3 months.  I am grateful for the friendships that I have made in this short time.   Special thoughts and prayers go out to our friend Pat,  Bibi in Belgrade ,  on the loss of her dear husband Ivan.  

The Sole Man

Meet Andrew, the ultimate Sole Man.  I had the pleasure of meeting him at the Goodyear Shoe Hospital on 3rd Avenue North in downtown Birmingham.   Just when you think nobody gives a lick about customer service anymore , you find a place like this.  The owner and the shop mascot, Momma ( you will meet them another day) are just delightful.  Throw in Andrew,  their employee of  25 years,  and you have a place that you might just want to visit even if your shoes don't need repair!  My photography buddy, Doug and I knew immediately that we had hit , as Andrew told us, "The Mother Lode" for photographers!   Oh yes, this was just what we were looking for.  A back room filled with amazing machinery,  sewing machines, and a ton of shoe memorabilia.   It was a a treasure trove .   We filled our memory cards and then when we thought we were done,  Momma the cat,  performed a "dog trick" just for our enjoyment!  Where is Dave Letterman when you need him???   An afternoon well spent.

NEWS!! Our friend Angela at Nice Daily Photo has added a new blog to the CDP network.

Check out Valbonne, France Daily Photo.