Is this Newborn Expressing an Opinion of the Crazy, Mixed-Up World He Sees?

A Misty Christmas Memory: Father and Son

It was only about a month ago, I visited my neighbors to help them photograph the event of having all the kids and grandchildren home at once. This was a bonus shot of their son with his son, pensively watching the Christmas tree. (I guess the baby was nervously watching me and my camera). I performed some fun, funky photo editing. I like the bright-warm color riot contrasted with the cool blue, etc.

I expect too much of popular, entertainment level fiction...

Three books I finished recently, in ascending order of preference:

I picked up (from my local paperback book exchange) a Stephen Hunter 'Bob Lee Swagger Novel' called "I, Sniper", a 2009 publication. 1960's era, left wing, high profile political activists are gunned down in public by an expert marksman using an extremely accurate, long range gun. I was amazed how closely the profiles of the victims fit with real world Jane Fonda (including the nasty, rich ex) and the now middle-aged, college professor bombers from Chicago (one mistake missed by proof readers referred to the man as "Bill", though the character's name was "Jack"). It was a page-turner, but not high quality. I'm very touchy about editing.

Martha Grimes "Help the Poor Stuggler". Usually I like her stories; this one just wasn't my favorite.

"The Chamber" by John Grisham. More of a quest for social change (stop the death penalty) than effort to entertain. So there was no mystery how it would end. His "The Painted House" was so much better as a fully developed novel, probably a little 'American classic'. Grisham has one more chance with me.

Spending a lot of time in our bedroom...

Recovering from last Friday's foot surgery, I can't move around too much. The weather outside was very cold and clear, with stronger sunshine and slightly longer days. We have a crystal hanging in the south window that sometimes produces brilliant rainbow projections on the walls and ceiling. I can't wait to get the cast off my foot.

Foot Surgery...so far, so good

Today, some needed repair work was done on my left foot. We are chillin' with ice packs, pain pills, etc. Wonderful turkey soup was brought by our friends next door; along with pieces of a great cake made with apple and chocolate. Who knew that would taste so good? Thanks for that, and messages of care and concern from all. Fortunately, I found some TV series DVD's to binge on.

Revisiting Photos

Very handsome Black Swallowtail from a few years ago.

The Impressive New River Gorge and the Bridge that spans it.

Part of a unique road trip in Spring 2015