Long hair

By the time I let it grow, it had retreated from my forehead, giving one that Cowardly Lion look.  Oh well, you are only young once.  Or twice.

The Swimmer

My father was always a terrific swimmer and diver.  He was a Red Cross Safety Instructor (he is the one that certifies lifeguards) and did this until well into his 40's.   Not sure where this was taken, probably in the early 1950's at a lake in PA.  Just guessing by the stones he is resting on.

Parents

It is sometimes hard to think of one's parents as young, and then you find an old picture of the two of them sitting on the backsteps of my greatgrandparent's house in Greensburg, PA.  
My father is 22 and my mother is 18.  They are not married yet.  They had met the summer before while he was working at a lifeguard at the Ligonier Beach.  The wedding is still a couple of weeks away. Not more than children, it is the styles of the time that add a maturity, but my Dad is wearing a tee shirt and work shoes, and my Mom's dress is hanging off her skinny self.  I do not remember this dog, but my great aunt Mary had a fondness for obnoxious terriers that bit everyone.

Father's Day

My  father was always young and strong.  A gifted athlete and teacher.  The epitome of a coach, father, grandfather, and friend.  I keep his picture on my desk top, that way I know he is close by, looking over my shoulder as I write my books.   Offering advice and counsel, never critical, only wanting you to do your best.

Early Sunday Morning

Tired after signing books yesterday.  
Not ready to start writing on 1745, though now that it is over 410 pages, the book is rounding slowly into shape.  It will be hot today.  Too hot for this early in June but the weather will be moderating as the week goes along.  
I am touched by one of my friend's Bob's writings, http://afewwordsfromeurope.com/author/afewwordsfromeurope/ sometimes my ramblings, by contrast and depth, seem so superfluous.  

Went to Upperville, Virginia earlier in the week for the Horse Show.  Managed to cut the heads and tails off of most of my pictures, so I switched to video.  
Spectacular settings under the large oaks which form a living canopy over the jumping ring.  
Had lunch at the Red Fox Inn, and came back home via Fredericksburg (after a brief refueling stop at Carl's Ice Cream).

Upperville Horse Show

In Upperville, VA this week.  I am off this morning to the Town Hall in La Plata for Arts Fest 2012, and I will be signing my books.

The Highwayman

Capt. Mulqueen.  Dia duit.