Independence Day Fireworks - Friday, 4 Jul 08

A fireworks display off the eastern coast of Key West lit up the night sky in an array of colors after the "whoosh" of being set off. It was an amazing display that lasted about 45 mintues. I don't have the type of camera to truly capture the splendor of fireworks, but here are a few highlights I could catch somewhat.

My Hometown - Wabeno, WI - Monday, 30 Jun 08

My hometown is a very small town in northern Wisconsin in the heart of Nicolet National Forest. It's a place for tourism all year round.
The town was founded as a logging/farming community. In the small park in the center of town "Larry The Logroller" stands about 30' tall near a historical steam engine.
The Logging Museum provides an array of information about the town of Wabeno and it's evolution over the years.
A tiny church stands on a small plot of land adjacent to Main Street.
Our Public Library is an old log building which also stands adjacent to Main Street, very near the small church. The town is approx 1.5 miles long and maybe 1 mile wide with a population that may reach 600. The homes I grew up in were 6 and 10 miles outside of this tiny little town.

Scott n Holly Sloan's Wedding (Part II) - Saturday, 28 Jun 08

Since we had some time between the wedding and the reception Laurie, Sue and I found a nice Italian Bistro near the riverside with a outside patio to enjoy some cocktails and snacks. It was an excellent afternoon stop.
We just couldn't keep Dad in his tie once he was out of the church. I'm actually surprised he didn't loose the jacket as well.
The only reason I posted this picture is because of the adorable look Laurie has on her face here. She really does look sweet.
A little dance between Holly n Uncle Will. And a kiss on the head to boot.
Five out of six of the sibs together: Jerry, Romelle, Will, Tina and Roy. Tami wasn't able to make it. We obviously were having a bit of fun!

Scott n Holly Sloan's Wedding Day - Saturday, 28 Jun 08

The end of June brought me up to Wisconsin; all the way up to the tip (Superior) to attend my niece Holly's wedding.
The wedding was set in deep rose red, sharp midnight black and brilliant snowflake white.
A trail of rose petals was spread down the isle by Scott and Holly's mothers as they entered the church. They're a beautiful accent against the train of Holly's dress as it floated across the floor.
More beautiful red roses were carried by each of Holly's attendants in small bouquets.
Those in the wedding party weren't the only ones dressed up for the occasion. Here's a shot of Mom and I just inside the doors of the church.

A Day Of Sailing - Sunday, 15 Jun 08

After multiple tries of getting out on the boat with Tim and JoAnn the day finally came. Justin and I joined them for a very nice day of sailing. We went from Jolly Harbour to Deep Bay and dropped anchor so we could enjoy lunch on the deck in still waters before sailing back down to Jolly. According to Tim it was a very weak wind day. Being the wimp that I can be I thought the lean of the boat was plenty in the winds we had.
Yes, I actually did get a chance to help with some of the duties on board. I can't tell you the proper name for what rope I pulled. I just said "tell me what color rope you want pulled or released and I'll do it". I successfully raised a sail or two and brought the main beam across as well. Not yet sailor material, but it's a start.
And of course, there was relaxation time too. No, Justin didn't chill the entire trip, I just happen to be the one with the camera at the moment.
A touch of America in the waters of the Caribbean. Their boat is registered in the U.S., therefore flies our American flag against the beautiful colors of the ocean.

Deep Bay - Saturday, 14 Jun 08

A beautiful view of Deep Bay as seen from an old fort atop the hill on the northwest side of the bay. The Royal Antiguan Resort can be seen in the distance.
Beyond the ending of the land that creates the bay there is an outcropping of rock (picture behind me). Notice how clear the water looks here.
Even though the fort is very small there are several areas that are relatively in good condition. Here is an exterior stairway that leads to the very top of the fort.
The front side of the fort faces the beach are of the bay. Through the second opening and up the stairs brings you to the highest point. It's amazing how well preserved the stones, etc are for being subjected to the elements for so many years.

Guiana Island Hike - Saturday, 1 Jun 08

The island of Guiana sits a short thirty yards off the shore of Antigua. It's a small, uninhabited island spanning about 1/2 mile wide by two miles long. Years ago there was a small group of people living there and before that a military presence. We were able to see some of the remnants of these long gone residents as we hiked along the trails of the island.
Dangling hooks and mangled sheet metal of an abandoned building give way to the elements; showing signs of rust.
A pile of ornate iron has also been left to rust as it sits in a heap instead of being used to create a beautiful railing or other aesthetic addition to the now dilapidated property.
In the basement an old wicker chairs sits rotting in the darkness.
The wooden rungs of this ladder have long since rotted away as it lays amongst the leaves and debris collected on the old porch.
A vintage auto is overcome by the growth of the jungle.