Wow, it's been almost two years since my last post. Going to try to do better.
I'm going to pursue a different subject. Something I never thought I would be writing about.
Eating healthily.
Starting about four or five months ago, I would wake up at night with my heart racing. I knew I should go see a doctor, but procrastination kept winning out. Then one morning, it started happening. I laid back and tried breathing slowly, trying to get the heart to slow down. I started feeling light headed and dizzy. I figured I had better go get checked out.
I didn't feel comfortable driving, and my wife doesn't drive any more, so she called an ambulance.
I very seldom see a doc, let alone have never been in an ambulance, other than medical training. That was an experience.
When they got me to the ER, my pulse was 250. The staff did all their stuff to get it down and ran a bunch of tests. I had to stay the night and more tests the next morning.
To jump ahead, it was not a heart attack, or anything really life threatening, it was something called Tachycardia. Basically the hearts electrical pulses shorting out.
Upon being released, I was given a bunch of 'scripts for meds they wanted me to start taking, and a stern warning to lose weight.
At the follow up visit with the Cardiologist, he referred to me as obese. I knew I was overweight, but that word had never been used before. The "F" word, yeah, but not obese.
Again, the list of meds he wanted me to take. I don't like meds. My wife has to take several, and watching my parents, at the end of their lives taking lots of meds, and what they did to them, I resisted.
In my next doctor visit, with a new primary physician, we talked about the meds and losing weight. She told me that changing my diet was something I could do to stay off some of them. I needed to eat healthier.
I have always been a person that enjoyed food. I love to cook. I love trying new dishes. I love food. Guess that's why I am "obese".
And I was one of those people that just shook my head and chuckled when someone said they were a vegetarian. Not for me!
She gave me the names of a couple books to read and some documentaries about food to watch.
I was pushed on to a more vegan path. A new world for me. I am not going totally vegetarian, but more healthily stuff and less meat. And practically cutting out sugar totally. That is really hard, but I'm trying.
The book that really hit home was "The Omnivore's Dilemma". And the film was "Forks Over Knives". These really opened my eyes into the food we eat today. What the food industry does to what we eat. I'm not blaming them totally, they are in business to provide a product and make a profit. But a lot of what they produce is just not good for us.
So, my writing for a bit will be about what I am discovering in eating healthily. It's exciting to go down this path. New foods to learn. New cooking techniques to try. New adventures.
And loose weight!!
Thursday, January 26, 2017
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Remembering Mom
My mother passed away today.
It wasn't unexpected, and she was ready. Her last couple years had been difficult for her. She could no longer enjoy the special things in her life. She couldn't work in her garden. Her friends were pretty much gone. And she couldn't recognize a lot of her family. It was heartbreaking to see her slide away.
Now we get to remember all that made her so special. Why she was so loved. Everyone that new this lady thought the world of her. Now she's telling jokes to God.
As far as moms go, I don't think I could have had a better one. I know I couldn't have. She was always there for us. Her love knew no limits.
I could always talk to her about anything. Even though she never finished high school, her knowledge of life was boundless. She always had an answer for my problems.
Looking back at life, she was always there. Her kids were the most important thing in her life. Grandkids, and Great-grandkids, they made all that much better. These were what was important to her. Once, when it was our turn to do Thanksgiving for the whole family, and barely holding it together, I ask her how she was able to do it and keep smiling. She said those times were the best in her life.
Her and dad never had a lot of material things, but had the love of family and friends that cannot be bought. They had a hard, but full life. They enjoyed what they had and were happy for it. Such wonderful people.
As a kid, she was a strict disciplinarian. I remember many times trying to outrun her switch, or yardstick. And if I was mad and would slam the door leaving the house, I got to come back and softly close it a dozen times.
She instilled self sufficiency. By the time I left home, I could wash and iron my own clothes, cook, and sew. I suppose I knew how to make a bed, and put my clothes away, but never did it. I remember one time I was staying with an aunt and uncle in Portland, and needed a shirt ironed. I ask Aunt Rose if she could do it for me. No way, she got our the iron and ironing board and told me she knew I knew how to iron.
As a cook in the grade school, all the kids loved her, and to her they were an extension to her family. She knew them all by name, and would make special treats.
Like everyone who loses a parent, I am missing her so much. And will continue to miss her, but will remember all those wonderful times with her, and how much she filled my life. She not only gave me life, but was a large part of keeping it full. A friend told me when he lost his mother, it was like have a hole ripped in your heart that you know will always be there.
So, with tears running down my cheeks, I want to say "Mom, I love you, and please keep watching over us."
The world is a little more empty today.
Saturday, March 7, 2015
Boise via Central Oregon Trip II
The second night was really cold. Did get the sleeping bag woes worked out, and wore a beanie, so was fairly comfortable and warm. Amazing what a good nights sleep can do.
We fished a little when we got up, then came back to make breakfast. Pretty simple the second morning. The first morning I taught Sean how to bake biscuits in a frying pan. I can remember my grandfather showing my dad how to do this in the driveway of his farm. Works great, and you don't need a dutch oven. He loved learning how to cook over an open fire. Had always cooked on camp stoves before.
I can't wait to teach his son, Tommy, and Jon's son, Oliver, about camping. I've been doing it my whole life. That was my parents idea of a vacation, and is mine today. My wife loves it.
After breakfast we decided that we would pull up stakes and head for the Powder River outside of Baker City.
Heading for the John Day River Valley, we came across a shoe tree. Pretty cool! Sean wanted to get a shot of it. There's a small sign on the tree "A bunch of old soles hanging around". Cute.
We fished a little when we got up, then came back to make breakfast. Pretty simple the second morning. The first morning I taught Sean how to bake biscuits in a frying pan. I can remember my grandfather showing my dad how to do this in the driveway of his farm. Works great, and you don't need a dutch oven. He loved learning how to cook over an open fire. Had always cooked on camp stoves before.
I can't wait to teach his son, Tommy, and Jon's son, Oliver, about camping. I've been doing it my whole life. That was my parents idea of a vacation, and is mine today. My wife loves it.
Heading for the John Day River Valley, we came across a shoe tree. Pretty cool! Sean wanted to get a shot of it. There's a small sign on the tree "A bunch of old soles hanging around". Cute.
We hit the valley a little west of Dayville. This is the country I was raised in. John Day and Prairie City. It's really pretty here. High elevation desert. Very dry. Though there was fresh snow in the mountains.
We stopped in John Day for lunch at a local brewery. The boy does like his beer. The food was great, and the waitress better. Very pretty lady. If you are passing through, stop at the 1188 Brewing Company. You won't be disappointed.
I had Sean drive around and showed him where I had lived, and a little history of the place... and me.
He really like the town. Wants to find a job there. It would be a great place to move back too.
Finally took off for the rest of the trip to the Powder River. We had to go through what was a small mill town of Bates. The mill closed in 1975, and the house were sold off and hauled away. A lot to Prairie City (which we passed through without stopping). It's really strange to see nothing there but flat ground. It's now a state park.
We finally hit the Powder River, and stopped to check things out. It's not a large stream, especially in winter, but a sweet little place. I stopped last summer and caught a small rainbow with in a few minutes.
Standing there looking at the water, it was REALLY cold, and Sean was talking about finding a place to set up camp. I was so not looking forward to that, but it was his trip, and whatever he wanted I would go along with. A motel sounded so good.
He finally came around and suggested we get a room in Baker City. (I still think of it, and call it, Baker). A good nights sleep and then explore Baker a little.
We went up to the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center and took the tour. A very interesting place, showing the lives of those that settled the west. A very courageous group. What the went through to make the trip is amazing. If in the area, be sure to visit.
Well, time to hit the freeway and finish the trip to Boise. It was a great time, and look forward to spending more time there.
Tom
Friday, March 6, 2015
Boise via Central Oregon Trip.
Hey All,
Finally got to go on an adventure. Sean had to make a trip to Boise, so he called and asked if I would like to spend a couple days exploring Central Oregon waters? The weather was predicted to be mild and sunny.
We had a couple phone conversations on where we would go, and when we would leave. It was to be his last day working the day shift, starting the graveyard when he got back. This sort of gave us an extra day.
I had been wanting to go to the Crooked River at Smith Rocks. It would make a great background for some fishing shots. And there was easy access to both sides of the river.
Sean decided that he wanted to leave as soon as he got off work. He would have all his stuffed packed, pick me up, and off we would go. Now this is February. It's still "winter" even though the temps have been mild, but it gets dark around 5:30 or so. A three hour drive, find a campsite, and set up camp in the dark. Not unheard of, but hey, I'm getting old. Comfort is a big deal to me.
Well, Sean had heard that it was good fishing below the dam at Prineville Reservoir. Maybe we could run up to Smith Rocks after a day at the dam.
It was a pleasant drive over the Cascades, into Sisters. No snow anywhere except the peaks of the mountains. This is one dry winter. May not be much water this summer. Scary.
We pulled into Prineville about 7:30 that evening and stopped to get some dinner. We wanted a burger and fries, but not fast food, so passed by the McDonalds and Dairy Queen and settled on a small, local diner.
We got into a conversation with a gentleman that had just moved to Oregon from Wyoming. Nice guy and it made us feel good about this part of the country. And the burger and fries were great. Wish I could remember the name of the place.
Anyway, back in the truck and off to find a campsite. There were several BLM campsites on the road to the dam, but they had campers in them. Not that we don't like people, just wanted solitude for our outing. That, and to be as close to the dam as possible.
The last campground was empty, so we picked our spot, and set up camp. It seemed a little colder than what the predictions were saying, but we were here, so make the best of it.
Rolled out our bags and went to bed. Now, I've became a little bigger than when I bought my bag twenty some years ago. It's a nice Marmot down bag. Very warm, but has got a little confining on me. I usually just unzip it and use it as a big, warm blanket. Great for summer and fall, but it started to get cold! Had to zip the thing up and crawl in. It really made me feel like a mummy. And I fought the zipper all night.
Oh, well, tomorrow will be great.
Sean got up before me, put on his gear, and started fishing. I got up and started breakfast. Priorities!
Finally got down to the river and started fishing. Fished for about an hour with no strikes. I was just goofing around while tying one night and made up a fly. Called it the Tsunami Tommy, after Sean's son. So I thought I would give it a try, being that I had forgot all my other fly boxes. Just had a few in an Altoid tin.
So tied on the fly and let it drift. BAM! It got a hit. That was awesome. The fish liked my fly. Caught six in a couple hours, with a few more strikes I didn't hook up. They were a couple rainbows, whitefish, and a redound. I had never caught a redound before. Beautiful fish.
Finally got to go on an adventure. Sean had to make a trip to Boise, so he called and asked if I would like to spend a couple days exploring Central Oregon waters? The weather was predicted to be mild and sunny.
We had a couple phone conversations on where we would go, and when we would leave. It was to be his last day working the day shift, starting the graveyard when he got back. This sort of gave us an extra day.
I had been wanting to go to the Crooked River at Smith Rocks. It would make a great background for some fishing shots. And there was easy access to both sides of the river.
Sean decided that he wanted to leave as soon as he got off work. He would have all his stuffed packed, pick me up, and off we would go. Now this is February. It's still "winter" even though the temps have been mild, but it gets dark around 5:30 or so. A three hour drive, find a campsite, and set up camp in the dark. Not unheard of, but hey, I'm getting old. Comfort is a big deal to me.
Well, Sean had heard that it was good fishing below the dam at Prineville Reservoir. Maybe we could run up to Smith Rocks after a day at the dam.
It was a pleasant drive over the Cascades, into Sisters. No snow anywhere except the peaks of the mountains. This is one dry winter. May not be much water this summer. Scary.
We pulled into Prineville about 7:30 that evening and stopped to get some dinner. We wanted a burger and fries, but not fast food, so passed by the McDonalds and Dairy Queen and settled on a small, local diner.
We got into a conversation with a gentleman that had just moved to Oregon from Wyoming. Nice guy and it made us feel good about this part of the country. And the burger and fries were great. Wish I could remember the name of the place.
Anyway, back in the truck and off to find a campsite. There were several BLM campsites on the road to the dam, but they had campers in them. Not that we don't like people, just wanted solitude for our outing. That, and to be as close to the dam as possible.
The last campground was empty, so we picked our spot, and set up camp. It seemed a little colder than what the predictions were saying, but we were here, so make the best of it.
Rolled out our bags and went to bed. Now, I've became a little bigger than when I bought my bag twenty some years ago. It's a nice Marmot down bag. Very warm, but has got a little confining on me. I usually just unzip it and use it as a big, warm blanket. Great for summer and fall, but it started to get cold! Had to zip the thing up and crawl in. It really made me feel like a mummy. And I fought the zipper all night.
Oh, well, tomorrow will be great.
Sean got up before me, put on his gear, and started fishing. I got up and started breakfast. Priorities!
Finally got down to the river and started fishing. Fished for about an hour with no strikes. I was just goofing around while tying one night and made up a fly. Called it the Tsunami Tommy, after Sean's son. So I thought I would give it a try, being that I had forgot all my other fly boxes. Just had a few in an Altoid tin.
So tied on the fly and let it drift. BAM! It got a hit. That was awesome. The fish liked my fly. Caught six in a couple hours, with a few more strikes I didn't hook up. They were a couple rainbows, whitefish, and a redound. I had never caught a redound before. Beautiful fish.
Sean on the Crooked River.
We had lunch, took a nap, and fished the afternoon. I shot a few photos, but was not impressed with the light. Plus, I have a bad ankle, and after wadding all morning, it was giving me grief.
It was great spending the time with my son. I wish Jon and Chris could have been there. A lot of jerking each other around. A late dinner and off to bed.
Late dinner. Hot dogs and chile.
Will post more tomorrow.
Tom
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Life in Eugene.
Well, it's been a while since I lasted posted. I'm not the most prolific writer, and ideas don't come easy. I do need to make an effort to do this a little more.
My last post I talked about moving. It's been an interesting five months. I really got to hit some life markers. First, my wife, Janie, had a heart attack and had to be life flighted from McCall to Boise. They put a stent in, and she is doing fine.
We returned to Eugene for a month, then had to return to McCall for a wedding. Janie started having chest pains again, so another helicopter ride to Boise. This one ended up being no big deal, the doctors in McCall were worried about her, and not having the resources there, sent her down.
That was our last trip to Idaho. We've found a place in Eugene, and are making it our new home. Love the neighborhood, and am getting used to driving around the city. No more getting lost and losing it. I do have a temper when it comes to traffic. Hate it, but am getting used to it.
Living in Eugene is a little strange. You have a large university, which puts a lot of liberal mindset into the population. Very liberal. At the same time, I see a lot of big trucks with hunting decals, and fishing is very big here. With two big rivers coming together, it's prime steelhead and salmon fishing right in town.
And the town is fun watching. I swear, this must be the breeding grounds for Prius. They are everywhere. I've never seen so many. Those and other hybrid autos. Must be that green thing.
And recycling. When we signed up for disposal service, we were issued three trash cans and a plastic container. One for recyclable materials, one for yard waste, and a small one for trash. And the plastic box is for clear glass. Still learning the system. I've had stuff left in the yard because it was put in the wrong container. I'm too old to be learning how to separate my trash.
But Janie likes it here. We've enjoyed finding new places to eat. Sweet Life has the best pastries, Fishermans Market has an oyster poor boy I love, and Giant Burgers in Springfield has burgers and shakes that are worth the drive. And the Market of Choice grocery stores are amazing. Cheeses and meats that I've been craving, and a bakery that make great croissants. Gotta be careful though. I bought some broccoli without noticing it was organic, until it was rang up. Five dollars a pound!
The other thing is watching the people. A lot of homeless people and drug abuse. That's sad. But a the old, balding guys that have pony tails in kinda sad, also. And I saw a beret, along with required pony tail. Wanted to laugh.
And the Obama stickers! Are these folks for real? With a razor blade and a few moments, they could scrape those things off.
They just voted to legalize marijuana. The new law goes into effect this summer. Now I worry about getting pulled over when I go back to Idaho. Those Oregonians, trying to sneak some dope into Idaho.
Haven't got to fish much. Went a couple time last fall, but didn't do well. Tried the Metolius for a couple days and got totally skunked. Need to get my license and get out on the water.
Just started sending out mailers to try to drum up work. It'll be interesting to see what comes of them. Have some other ideas on getting shoots, so I'm finally getting down to going back to work.
See what the future holds.
Friday, August 22, 2014
Moving
Today I thought I would ramble about the adventure of moving. When we moved to Idaho twenty years ago, we packed everything and then had a moving company ship it. The driver was a friend, who I think gave us a pretty good deal on the move.
This time, we again packed everything, but rented a U-haul and moved it all ourselves. Twenty years older and that crap is a lot heavier. Thank God for my sons. They made the whole thing work!
The fun part was driving a 26' truck across Oregon. I took the road though the desert, hitting Burns and Bend, then dropping into Eugene.
The truck was very comfortable, and drove like a dream. Was a little nervous at first, fearing I might tip the thing over, but no trouble at all. It even had enough power to pass when needed.
When I drive, music is not a big thing to me. If the radio is on, it's more background noise than for enjoyment. I like the way the mind just wanders when there is no distraction. Don't get me wrong, driving takes concentration, but a desert road with little traffic, you can't help be think about a lot of things. Such as "how am I going to start my business all over again?", "what's it going to be like living in a city again?"
This whole thing is both scary and exciting. A whole new world to explore, from the fishing waters around the area, to living in a very liberal community. May have to be a little more open minded. Maybe see things differently. Now don't think a hard core conservative is going soft! I still believe in what I feel is the right direction, but maybe get some insight into how libs come to their beliefs.
Back to the adventure of moving. Climbing up into the truck, and seeing the road from a higher vantage was great. It's a wide, beautiful world out there, and driving along, taking it all in is great. I have always loved road trips, and have been blessed with having had the opportunity to drive all over the U.S and Canada. Back roads are the best. You may not make good time, but theres more to life than speeding along at 70 or 80 MPH, with the world whipping by.
By taking back roads, I got to see a slice of U.S. life that most only see on television or in movies. Herds of antelope or big horn sheep. Beautiful rivers and mountain ranges. A distant storm blowing in. Visual stimuli!
The "fun" part of driving a truck is when you get into traffic. Truckers are great. When you pass on, and need to get back into the right lane, they'll flash their lights to let you know you are clear. Those driving autos, on the other hand, can be down right rude. Guess they don't realize they're going to loose a rumble.
Now I'm not claiming one trip in a small truck makes me a long haul driver, but it was fun. Years ago, when I was shooting trucks, before the changes on CDL requirements, there were times when I got to drive big rigs. Now that's a kick in the ass. Sitting eight feet up, looking down on the world. At the same time, trying to back a forty foot trailer into where it's needed, is an art. Just starting those things gets the blood flowing a little faster.
The other part of a great road trip, is when you get to drive alone. I know having your sweetie, or a good friend with you is great, but a day or two, or three, by yourself allows you the freedom to do what YOU want. No checking with the passenger. What to stop and throw rocks off a mountain, do it. Pull over at a greasy burger joint? Go ahead. You can even sing along with a favorite song without being told to shut up.
The end of the drive finally came. Tired and ready to stop, but at the same time regretting that it's over. There is always a new road to travel. Kinda like the changes in your life.
This time, we again packed everything, but rented a U-haul and moved it all ourselves. Twenty years older and that crap is a lot heavier. Thank God for my sons. They made the whole thing work!
The fun part was driving a 26' truck across Oregon. I took the road though the desert, hitting Burns and Bend, then dropping into Eugene.
The truck was very comfortable, and drove like a dream. Was a little nervous at first, fearing I might tip the thing over, but no trouble at all. It even had enough power to pass when needed.
When I drive, music is not a big thing to me. If the radio is on, it's more background noise than for enjoyment. I like the way the mind just wanders when there is no distraction. Don't get me wrong, driving takes concentration, but a desert road with little traffic, you can't help be think about a lot of things. Such as "how am I going to start my business all over again?", "what's it going to be like living in a city again?"
This whole thing is both scary and exciting. A whole new world to explore, from the fishing waters around the area, to living in a very liberal community. May have to be a little more open minded. Maybe see things differently. Now don't think a hard core conservative is going soft! I still believe in what I feel is the right direction, but maybe get some insight into how libs come to their beliefs.
Back to the adventure of moving. Climbing up into the truck, and seeing the road from a higher vantage was great. It's a wide, beautiful world out there, and driving along, taking it all in is great. I have always loved road trips, and have been blessed with having had the opportunity to drive all over the U.S and Canada. Back roads are the best. You may not make good time, but theres more to life than speeding along at 70 or 80 MPH, with the world whipping by.
By taking back roads, I got to see a slice of U.S. life that most only see on television or in movies. Herds of antelope or big horn sheep. Beautiful rivers and mountain ranges. A distant storm blowing in. Visual stimuli!
The "fun" part of driving a truck is when you get into traffic. Truckers are great. When you pass on, and need to get back into the right lane, they'll flash their lights to let you know you are clear. Those driving autos, on the other hand, can be down right rude. Guess they don't realize they're going to loose a rumble.
Now I'm not claiming one trip in a small truck makes me a long haul driver, but it was fun. Years ago, when I was shooting trucks, before the changes on CDL requirements, there were times when I got to drive big rigs. Now that's a kick in the ass. Sitting eight feet up, looking down on the world. At the same time, trying to back a forty foot trailer into where it's needed, is an art. Just starting those things gets the blood flowing a little faster.
The other part of a great road trip, is when you get to drive alone. I know having your sweetie, or a good friend with you is great, but a day or two, or three, by yourself allows you the freedom to do what YOU want. No checking with the passenger. What to stop and throw rocks off a mountain, do it. Pull over at a greasy burger joint? Go ahead. You can even sing along with a favorite song without being told to shut up.
The end of the drive finally came. Tired and ready to stop, but at the same time regretting that it's over. There is always a new road to travel. Kinda like the changes in your life.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Life and Change.
The last twenty years of my life have been lived in the Central Mountains of Idaho. The town of McCall was a great place to be, and finish raising my family. But all good things must come to an end.
The photo business here has been very slow in recovering from the past recession, and has changed so much, that the wife and I decided to pull up stakes and move on. It wasn't that hard of a decision. Winters just seemed to be most of the year, and summers in a tourist town were getting less fun. Plus we wanted to be able to spend time with the grandkids.
So after having a big moving sale, and giving away lots of stuff, we packed everything left into a U-haul and moved back to Oregon. All we own is packed in a storage unit, waiting for the next part of this life.
Moving wasn't as easy as it used to be. Bookings had to be completed, the wife had to close here business, good-byes to very good friends, and spend a little quality time with Mom. A couple more fishing trips with buddies, and a couple going away parties to attend. It's been an adventure and we're excited about the new life we are about to start.
This blog is a little dry, but over the next couple days I plan to write more about what it's been like. Hopefully, I can portray the adventure in a way you can enjoy it as much as I have.
Until next time..............
The photo business here has been very slow in recovering from the past recession, and has changed so much, that the wife and I decided to pull up stakes and move on. It wasn't that hard of a decision. Winters just seemed to be most of the year, and summers in a tourist town were getting less fun. Plus we wanted to be able to spend time with the grandkids.
So after having a big moving sale, and giving away lots of stuff, we packed everything left into a U-haul and moved back to Oregon. All we own is packed in a storage unit, waiting for the next part of this life.
Moving wasn't as easy as it used to be. Bookings had to be completed, the wife had to close here business, good-byes to very good friends, and spend a little quality time with Mom. A couple more fishing trips with buddies, and a couple going away parties to attend. It's been an adventure and we're excited about the new life we are about to start.
This blog is a little dry, but over the next couple days I plan to write more about what it's been like. Hopefully, I can portray the adventure in a way you can enjoy it as much as I have.
Until next time..............
Sunday, June 15, 2014
THINKING OF MY DAD.
For some reason, this Father’s Day seems to be resting on my mind more than others have. Thinking about my Dad more.
We had a strained relationship when I was growing up. He was always there for us, but distant. Maybe it was his generation, and how they were raised. Maybe it was what he went through in WWII. I can’t imagine how his generation accomplished what they did. A twenty year old young man, crawling into a bomber, flying over Germany to drop their payload, and then getting back home, meanwhile seeing other planes around them being shot down. What was going through their minds? How scared were they? But he was was one of the lucky ones that made it home.
All through high school, we didn’t get along, and I left home as soon as I could. Looking back, I don’t think I was the son he was looking for. I wasn’t a star athlete. I was more the hanging out with the bad kids. Never got in any real trouble, but do know I caused his some grief.
Things seemed to change after I was discharged from the Navy. I was married, and soon we had out first son. I went off to college, and then started my career. When ever life seemed to get hard, he was always there to talk to. I called home a lot. I missed him. He never had a lot of material things, but seemed happy with the life he had.
I was traveling all over North America, but living under a lot of stress. Talking to Dad always seemed to bring peace to my soul. But I always had to call early ‘cause he was in bed by 8:00.
When we came to visit, it was such a homecoming. He, Mom, and the sisters were always waiting in the driveway when we pulled in. How did they know we were arriving? How ever it happened, it made the heart warm. And leaving was always so sad. And I always had to call as soon as we got home, letting them know we made the trip okay. No cell phones back then.
And when him and Mom would come to visit us, it was so special. We lived in a world that was so different form theirs. And the life I had, I’m sure he couldn’t imagine. I remember one time when they came to visit, I had to go to Chicago for a truck shoot. He went along with me, riding through the city in a grip truck, and then setting in the shade watching as I put the photo shoot together. I looked over at him, and he really seemed to be enjoying watching what I was doing.
That night, we stayed at the Marriott downtown. Our room was on something like the 42nd floor and had floor to ceiling windows. I asked him what he would like to do, and all he wanted was room service and to set and look out and see the city from that high. As simple as it was, that was a very special evening to me.
We moved to McCall, and I was able to spend five years with him before he passed away. I am so thankful for that time. I think that was when I got to know him. Better late than never.
Now changes are happening in my life again, and I really miss not being able to talk with him. I know what he would say… “..everything will work out and be just fine”. He is still my strength when I need it. Today, I miss him more than ever.
I love you, Dad.
Monday, February 3, 2014
A few random thoughts
It's been a long time since I last posted anything. Good thing I don't have any followers. No one missed it. I have to start being more consistant with my writing.
A couple thoughts on fishing.
Last summer the fishing was pretty weak. Low, warm water didn't help things. The snow pack so far this year is not looking that much better. Hope we get a lot dumped on us during the spring.
Did catch a couple nice twenty inch Rainbows in October. A lot of fun. Only thing is I took a friend down a few days later and couldn't buy a strike. Good thing I had photos to prove I caught big fish.
I would like to get out and get some winter fishing photos. I need to find a model and do it. Our snow may be below normal, but it's beautiful. Wonder who I can get to wade when the temp is around 14˙.
On to photography thoughts.
I recently was made aware of the portraits a mother in Russia shoots of her children. Fabulous images. So much soul in her work. I keep going back to look at her images. Check her out. http://500px.com/ElenaShumilova.
Last spring I got to teach photography to a fifth grade class. I had a ball teaching these young people, and was pleasantly surprised at the images they came up with. A few weeks ago, I started with a new class. Last years class was only nine students, this year it's twenty-two. Big difference.
I'm already getting excited about what they are producing. We spend about half and hour talking about some aspect of photography, then they get to shoot, using what we covered that day. They have already shown some interesting images. I can't wait to see what they com up with by the end of the class. The way an eleven year old see the world is refreshing.
Now to try to get more folk to follow my ramblings..........
Tom
A couple thoughts on fishing.
Last summer the fishing was pretty weak. Low, warm water didn't help things. The snow pack so far this year is not looking that much better. Hope we get a lot dumped on us during the spring.
Did catch a couple nice twenty inch Rainbows in October. A lot of fun. Only thing is I took a friend down a few days later and couldn't buy a strike. Good thing I had photos to prove I caught big fish.
I would like to get out and get some winter fishing photos. I need to find a model and do it. Our snow may be below normal, but it's beautiful. Wonder who I can get to wade when the temp is around 14˙.
On to photography thoughts.
I recently was made aware of the portraits a mother in Russia shoots of her children. Fabulous images. So much soul in her work. I keep going back to look at her images. Check her out. http://500px.com/ElenaShumilova.
Last spring I got to teach photography to a fifth grade class. I had a ball teaching these young people, and was pleasantly surprised at the images they came up with. A few weeks ago, I started with a new class. Last years class was only nine students, this year it's twenty-two. Big difference.
I'm already getting excited about what they are producing. We spend about half and hour talking about some aspect of photography, then they get to shoot, using what we covered that day. They have already shown some interesting images. I can't wait to see what they com up with by the end of the class. The way an eleven year old see the world is refreshing.
Now to try to get more folk to follow my ramblings..........
Tom
Monday, July 8, 2013
July Weekend
This was another great weekend. Aside from all the tourists in town for the 4th of July festivities (and all the personal fireworks that seemed to never end), It was good.
I am getting real spoiled spending time with my Grandson Oliver. Jon and Rachel come up every weekend so she can work a couple shifts at Lardo's Grill. Jon always brings Oliver over to hang out for a few hours. Love that little guy. He definitely has his dad's ability to charm.
Had to brag a little. Hope you don't mind.
I got to go fish with Warren a couple times. Friday he asked me to go with him to teach his cousin and her husband to to fly fish. They live in the San Francisco bay area, and are for sure city people. Very nice and friendly. Very excited about the area up here. Not used to the "wild" country. Why are folks from urban areas so pre-occupied about bears? Seems they are always worried about a bear attack. If you happen to run across a bear in the hills around here, you are probably only going to see his butt as he is running away. They don't like humans.
Then Sunday, Warren and I got to go fishing on our own.
We went to a small stream about twenty miles from town that can be a sweet little water for small brookies and rainbows. A great small rod water. Nothing big was caught, but a lot of little 4 to 8 incher. I know this is probably not exciting to those who chase the big one, but there is more to it than catching big fish.
Spending an evening with a good friend, bantering back and forth, enjoying the area, this makes a wonderful evening. Listening to the water as it drops and splashes through the rocks. Watching a small hatch happen and the small fingerlings feeding. Hooking a small brook trout and watch it swim away when released. This brings is a warm feeling that can heal the wounded soul.
Afterwards, meeting at the truck, breaking down equipment, sipping a little scotch and laughing about how small the fish were. You can't buy this kind of camaraderie.
We are already trying to think of where to go next weekend.
I am getting real spoiled spending time with my Grandson Oliver. Jon and Rachel come up every weekend so she can work a couple shifts at Lardo's Grill. Jon always brings Oliver over to hang out for a few hours. Love that little guy. He definitely has his dad's ability to charm.
Had to brag a little. Hope you don't mind.
I got to go fish with Warren a couple times. Friday he asked me to go with him to teach his cousin and her husband to to fly fish. They live in the San Francisco bay area, and are for sure city people. Very nice and friendly. Very excited about the area up here. Not used to the "wild" country. Why are folks from urban areas so pre-occupied about bears? Seems they are always worried about a bear attack. If you happen to run across a bear in the hills around here, you are probably only going to see his butt as he is running away. They don't like humans.
Then Sunday, Warren and I got to go fishing on our own.
We went to a small stream about twenty miles from town that can be a sweet little water for small brookies and rainbows. A great small rod water. Nothing big was caught, but a lot of little 4 to 8 incher. I know this is probably not exciting to those who chase the big one, but there is more to it than catching big fish.
Spending an evening with a good friend, bantering back and forth, enjoying the area, this makes a wonderful evening. Listening to the water as it drops and splashes through the rocks. Watching a small hatch happen and the small fingerlings feeding. Hooking a small brook trout and watch it swim away when released. This brings is a warm feeling that can heal the wounded soul.
Afterwards, meeting at the truck, breaking down equipment, sipping a little scotch and laughing about how small the fish were. You can't buy this kind of camaraderie.
We are already trying to think of where to go next weekend.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Impact in photos
I've been mostly posting about fishing, but today I would like to talk about photography. The thing that is not really thought about when taking, or making, a photograph.
When I first became interested in photography, I was still serving in the U.S. Navy. A friend was taking a Famous Photographers course. This was way before the internet, online courses. Everything as done through the mail.
I looked at his books for the course and thought this is really exciting, so I used my GI Bill and signed up. I received three ring bound books with all the assignments and a basic class on photography. I never did complete the course, but one thing stands out. One of the assignment had to do with color photography. The "instructor" was Irving Penn. At that time I had no idea who Irving Penn was, and to this day regret that I did not keep his critique. It was a personal, and I believe hand written, critique of the photos I had submitted. All I remember of it was that he wrote that color should be held to a minimum for impact. Or something along those lines.
After being discharged, I decided I wanted to become a photographer, and applied to Brooks Institute of Photography. In the '70's, photography was very popular, and Brooks had something like a two year waiting period to start. During this time I was doing what I could to learn photography and came across a book published by Kodak called "Impact: Photography for Advertising". The book talked about how photos needed to have an impact to grab the viewer.
Today, with digital cameras, something has been lost in the art of photography. It has made it too easy to get good images. No longer does a person have to learn the technical side to take photos. The cameras do all the work. You can look at thousands of photos online, and there are a lot of good ones, but few great ones.
The most obvious weakness in a lot of photos posted today is they lack IMPACT! How many sunset shots, that are of just the sunset, have you seen? Most are what the photographer saw and captured. What nature provided. Nothing added to make it a great photo. When I was teaching a photo class, I told the class that I did not want to see any sunset shots unless there was more to it.
What I am attempting to bring out, is that there must be some thing in the photograph that connects with the viewer. There must be either some sort of emotional connection, or it must tell a story. Something besides a pretty picture. It must draw the viewer into the image. Make them want to be part of the story, or emotionally move them.
The masters of painting where able to do this. If you look at a Rembrandt painting, he draws you into the image, and touches your soul. He was able to connect the viewer with his story.
They great photographers also brought this to their work. If you look at a Joyce Tenneson, Irving Penn, or Richard Avadon image, you will be drawn into what the artist produced.
Emotion isn't just taking a photo of a puppy or a small child. It must have the extra magic that hooks the viewers soul.
Peruse photos by great artists and try to understand what makes the piece great. Try to put this little extra in what you are producing. Add the emotion, or impact, to take your images to the next level. Go beyond what most of the photos out there are. You will be amazed how viewers will react to your images.
When I first became interested in photography, I was still serving in the U.S. Navy. A friend was taking a Famous Photographers course. This was way before the internet, online courses. Everything as done through the mail.
I looked at his books for the course and thought this is really exciting, so I used my GI Bill and signed up. I received three ring bound books with all the assignments and a basic class on photography. I never did complete the course, but one thing stands out. One of the assignment had to do with color photography. The "instructor" was Irving Penn. At that time I had no idea who Irving Penn was, and to this day regret that I did not keep his critique. It was a personal, and I believe hand written, critique of the photos I had submitted. All I remember of it was that he wrote that color should be held to a minimum for impact. Or something along those lines.
After being discharged, I decided I wanted to become a photographer, and applied to Brooks Institute of Photography. In the '70's, photography was very popular, and Brooks had something like a two year waiting period to start. During this time I was doing what I could to learn photography and came across a book published by Kodak called "Impact: Photography for Advertising". The book talked about how photos needed to have an impact to grab the viewer.
Today, with digital cameras, something has been lost in the art of photography. It has made it too easy to get good images. No longer does a person have to learn the technical side to take photos. The cameras do all the work. You can look at thousands of photos online, and there are a lot of good ones, but few great ones.
The most obvious weakness in a lot of photos posted today is they lack IMPACT! How many sunset shots, that are of just the sunset, have you seen? Most are what the photographer saw and captured. What nature provided. Nothing added to make it a great photo. When I was teaching a photo class, I told the class that I did not want to see any sunset shots unless there was more to it.
What I am attempting to bring out, is that there must be some thing in the photograph that connects with the viewer. There must be either some sort of emotional connection, or it must tell a story. Something besides a pretty picture. It must draw the viewer into the image. Make them want to be part of the story, or emotionally move them.
The masters of painting where able to do this. If you look at a Rembrandt painting, he draws you into the image, and touches your soul. He was able to connect the viewer with his story.
They great photographers also brought this to their work. If you look at a Joyce Tenneson, Irving Penn, or Richard Avadon image, you will be drawn into what the artist produced.
Emotion isn't just taking a photo of a puppy or a small child. It must have the extra magic that hooks the viewers soul.
Peruse photos by great artists and try to understand what makes the piece great. Try to put this little extra in what you are producing. Add the emotion, or impact, to take your images to the next level. Go beyond what most of the photos out there are. You will be amazed how viewers will react to your images.
Monday, July 1, 2013
Fishing with Warren
A short post about yesterday's fishing. One of my fishing buddies finally got all his honey-dos finished, so we had an opportunity to go fish.
After a late start (I was up 'til 3:00 with my grandson) we hit the road. Now hitting the road around here is never a long trip. Within fifteen minutes we were at a spot I wanted to try.
I have driven by this section of water dozens of times, but had always heard it was not good fishing, so had never stopped. Then a couple days ago, another friend stopped me and said he landed a 29", 9# rainbow at this spot.
We stopped and got out to check the water, and damn!, big fish swimming around. Figured we may as well give it a shot.
Got everything set up and got some line wet. After a few minutes, I felt a tug, but didn't hook up. A few more drifts, and BAM! A hit and had a fish on. It fought like hell and was a lot of fun. I was standing on a flat rock that eased into the water, so I beached it on the rock.. Wow, a nice 16" 'bow.
After releasing it back into the water, looked up at Warren, and he was still tying a fly onto his line. It seems like every time I looked up stream to him, he was tying another fly on. He said he kept loosing flies. Now Warren is a farmer, and did lose the tip of one finger to some machine, but past that, he insists on tying some fancy knot for his flies. Swears he has lost too many fish with the clinch knot, so is never going to use it again.
To me, he's got the wrong mindset. He is missing fishing time screwing with his fancy knots. Even if he did loose a fish now and again, he would at least be catching fish, not tying knots.
All and all, it was a fun day. We didn't fish very long. Both of us old farts were tired, so went back to town for a burger and a beer.
Can't wait for the next trip!
Happy Trails
Tom
><))))˙>
After a late start (I was up 'til 3:00 with my grandson) we hit the road. Now hitting the road around here is never a long trip. Within fifteen minutes we were at a spot I wanted to try.
I have driven by this section of water dozens of times, but had always heard it was not good fishing, so had never stopped. Then a couple days ago, another friend stopped me and said he landed a 29", 9# rainbow at this spot.
We stopped and got out to check the water, and damn!, big fish swimming around. Figured we may as well give it a shot.
Got everything set up and got some line wet. After a few minutes, I felt a tug, but didn't hook up. A few more drifts, and BAM! A hit and had a fish on. It fought like hell and was a lot of fun. I was standing on a flat rock that eased into the water, so I beached it on the rock.. Wow, a nice 16" 'bow.
After releasing it back into the water, looked up at Warren, and he was still tying a fly onto his line. It seems like every time I looked up stream to him, he was tying another fly on. He said he kept loosing flies. Now Warren is a farmer, and did lose the tip of one finger to some machine, but past that, he insists on tying some fancy knot for his flies. Swears he has lost too many fish with the clinch knot, so is never going to use it again.
To me, he's got the wrong mindset. He is missing fishing time screwing with his fancy knots. Even if he did loose a fish now and again, he would at least be catching fish, not tying knots.
All and all, it was a fun day. We didn't fish very long. Both of us old farts were tired, so went back to town for a burger and a beer.
Can't wait for the next trip!
Happy Trails
Tom
><))))˙>
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Fishing with Clark
This week is panning out pretty well. I got a couple shoots booked, did a little fishing, and shot some fishing photos for my website.
Sunday I ran up to Goose Creek to check the water level and get some line wet. Took the 4 wt. as this is not a big fish stream. I had fun, but only caught fingerlings. I did get excited about how the water and background looked. Great place for a photo shoot.
I called a friend, Clark Lucas, and asked if he was up to do a little modeling for me.
Now Clark is a Steelhead and Salmon fisherman. Little Brookies and Rainbows aren't his thing, but he agreed to downsize for the sake of my photos. He did insist on bringing his own rod. a 9' 6 wt. I tried to get him to use my 3 or 4 wt. but no deal.
He is also a master fly tier. His spey and steelhead flies are works of art. I feel honored when ever he has given me some of his flies. I could never tie any thing like these.
Sunday I ran up to Goose Creek to check the water level and get some line wet. Took the 4 wt. as this is not a big fish stream. I had fun, but only caught fingerlings. I did get excited about how the water and background looked. Great place for a photo shoot.
I called a friend, Clark Lucas, and asked if he was up to do a little modeling for me.
Now Clark is a Steelhead and Salmon fisherman. Little Brookies and Rainbows aren't his thing, but he agreed to downsize for the sake of my photos. He did insist on bringing his own rod. a 9' 6 wt. I tried to get him to use my 3 or 4 wt. but no deal.
He is also a master fly tier. His spey and steelhead flies are works of art. I feel honored when ever he has given me some of his flies. I could never tie any thing like these.
I also figured Clark was someone who could get to the spots I had picked for photos. He has recently retired from the Forest Service, and after thirty years running around the mountains, he is in pretty good shape. So much for what I wanted, the wuss wouldn't go to the holes I wanted him in. Afraid of a little fast water on a freestone stream. Of course, he is a skinny guy. Probably would have got washed down the river.
I can't really pick on him. He did get into some pretty hairy spots for me. Thank God for carbide studs. The rocks are slick.
It was a lot of fun, and I think Clark got into it a little. When I was finished, he fished for a little bit. Trying to catch one of those 10' Brookies on his 6 wt.
I'm much indebted to him, and hope to get him out to model again.
Still haven't talked about my fishing, but I'll get to that later.
<'(((((><
Tom
Thursday, May 16, 2013
It's been slow and boring, this last month. Rivers and streams are in spring runoff, so are too high to fish. At least for my fishing ability.
With this, I have been working on some photos for an upcoming art show this summer. Have shot some new images, and worked on some of my older shots.
It has been interesting working with some techniques to get something interesting. Have been working with multiple exposures, then a lot of photoshop. Have come up with some stuff I like.
This was a new image. I also found an older one I liked, but it needed something, so I added a little surprise. Can you find it?
With this, I have been working on some photos for an upcoming art show this summer. Have shot some new images, and worked on some of my older shots.
It has been interesting working with some techniques to get something interesting. Have been working with multiple exposures, then a lot of photoshop. Have come up with some stuff I like.
Another one that is still in the works.......
If you would like to post some input, it would be welcomed.
Maybe next week I will have something of interest to post. Until then...........
Tom
Monday, April 29, 2013
First of the year.
It's been over six months since I last posted something. Not good. I have to really get better at this. And learn how to get people to look at my posting. Right now I'm kind of out in the desert by myself, so to say.
The mountain closed early this year from lack of snow. And now the snow in town is pretty much gone. The rivers aren't too high yet, so have gone down to the river a few times. My dog, Huck, loves going fishing, so it's a great reason to get him some exercise.
The first time I caught a nice 18" rainbow that was a fun fight. I landed and kept that one. I really wanted a fresh trout for dinner. Anything after this would be released.
My next cast had a big hit! A big fish jumped about a foot out of the water and I thought, Oh boy!, a good fight is on. Yeah, right. As soon as it hit the water the tippet snapped. Fish Off! Damn, that was a disappointment. Oh well, it happens.
And that was the end of my catching anything. I've gone down a couple more times, got some bumps, and lost some flies, but not more hooking up. But like they say, it's not the catching, it's the fishing.
I am excited that in two weeks my son Sean and his family will be out for Mothers Day. Sean was my go to for modeling fishing photos. He loves the sport as much as anyone, and modeling for me was a great excuse to get out on the water.
Hopefully, we can get away for a few hours and get some fishin' and shootin' in.
Well, better sign off and get something done. Get out there and wet some lines.
Tom
The mountain closed early this year from lack of snow. And now the snow in town is pretty much gone. The rivers aren't too high yet, so have gone down to the river a few times. My dog, Huck, loves going fishing, so it's a great reason to get him some exercise.
The first time I caught a nice 18" rainbow that was a fun fight. I landed and kept that one. I really wanted a fresh trout for dinner. Anything after this would be released.
My next cast had a big hit! A big fish jumped about a foot out of the water and I thought, Oh boy!, a good fight is on. Yeah, right. As soon as it hit the water the tippet snapped. Fish Off! Damn, that was a disappointment. Oh well, it happens.
And that was the end of my catching anything. I've gone down a couple more times, got some bumps, and lost some flies, but not more hooking up. But like they say, it's not the catching, it's the fishing.
I am excited that in two weeks my son Sean and his family will be out for Mothers Day. Sean was my go to for modeling fishing photos. He loves the sport as much as anyone, and modeling for me was a great excuse to get out on the water.
Hopefully, we can get away for a few hours and get some fishin' and shootin' in.
Well, better sign off and get something done. Get out there and wet some lines.
Tom
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Lots of fishing, little catching II
Back to my two weeks of fishing......
After getting back from our trip, another fellow patroller came up to go fishing. Warren is, to describe him kindly, quite a character. He's one of those guys that seems to know everybody, and it always amazes me how many people I meet who know Warren.
To continue... Warren had told me he had a meeting at 0830 and we could leave as soon as he was finished. Come 1430 (2:30 PM) he finally called to say he would be ready shortly. He had mentioned that he wanted to go to Burgdorf and fish Lake Creek. I had fished it a couple of times and had no luck at all. Oh, well, we'll give it another try.
After driving a little over an hour, we arrived at the camp ground with access to the creek. Warren went upstream and I, downstream. Again, the only fish I came across was a couple of salmon that had came up to spawn. No brookies, no rainbows, not even a whitefish.
The high point of the trip was sitting on a rail fence, having a shot of scotch. Only having a cigar could have made it better.
The next day Warren said he had never been up toward Hazard Lakes and would like to check it out. Hazard is one of my favorite places to camp, and at times fishing can be great, but you need some way to get out on the lake to fish. We had nothing, so just looked at the lake and got back into the truck.
Next we drove down to the headwaters of Goose Creek. Another of my favorite streams, but I usually fish it a few miles down stream. But it was good! Sort of. Right off, Warren caught a beautiful little brookie, and right after that, I caught one. They were only about 8-10 inches, but, damn, we finally caught some fish. We played around for about an hour, caught a couple more, then had to leave so Warren could pick up his wife and drive home.
About noon on Monday Sean came by and asked if he could borrow some stuff. He was going to hike into a high mountain lake he had had an incredible trip to last year. He asked if I would like to go, but my old, out of shape butt could no way make the trip into the lake. It's three miles and about 1500' in elevation gain. No way I could make that.
He had came by to borrow a pistol because we have a big time wolf problem in Idaho. They were introduced about ten years ago, and have thrived in the back country. These are not the timber wolves that used to be here, but big, aggressive grey wolves brought down from Canada. They have been seen just a few miles out side of McCall. They have really reduced the elk population, though Fish and Game, to cover their asses, will tell you that is not true. Sean wasn't worried about himself, but was concerned for his dog.
Anyway, he was off with high expectations. And a big pack!
The next day he called about 1030. He was already back in town! And no fish. Said it was depressing. Would I like to hike into Louie Lake? This is another great lake to fish. It's about a mile hike with a 600' elevation gain. A steep, dusty, rocky trail, but I can handle that hike.
I was really surprised his wife would let him take off on another fishing trip. He has only been married for ten days, and has been fishing for four of those. My sister asked me why I took Sean on his honeymoon. Hahaha! Jenn must be pretty understanding.
He picked me up and we made the trip to Louie. Nice day, not too hot after the summer we've had so far. Took my dog, Huck. He's not quite two, and trying to get him trained has been a real challenge. So far he has ate two pair of flip flops, three hats, and a pair of hiking shoes. He also got into my fly tying materials one day. He almost saw his final day over that. But he's turning into a good dog. Growing kind of attached to him.
Made the trip in and to our delight, there was only one other fisherman there, and he was in a float tube out in the lake. We hurried and got set up and started fishing. About my fifth cast, and big one took the fly and dove for the bottom. Along with my tippet and fly. I hadn't change the 3# tippet I had be using, and Louie has big, fighting cutthroats.
Tied on another tippet and fly and went back to fishing. I kept hearing Sean cuss. He was getting hits, but nothing was taking the fly. We both tried flies different than our always great, can't go wrong, Chernobyl Ants. I got another strike and landed a nice 9" cut. Pretty fish, but consider that a fingerling in this trophy lake. After another half hour, I got another hit. A big one! Too bad he pre released.
Mean while, Sean hadn't caught anything. It was too bad, in that this was his favorite lake to fish. He went in there by himself last year and said he hooked over twenty fish. Of course he was by himself, and not one could substantiate his count, but we all know fishermen never lie.
Sean had finally had enough, and was ready to call it a day. We packed our gear and headed down the mountain. He saw some huckleberries, and figured taking home enough for huckleberry pancakes would help smooth things over with the new missus, so we stopped and picked about a pint. I should say I watched and he picked. I really don't like picking berries.
On to the car, and the drive back to town. We talked about how it was strange that every where we went, the fishing was weak. Was it the heat? Water has been warm everywhere. He had heard somewhere that when the salmon come up to spawn, the trout get out of town. Don't know about that, but something had the fish not biting.
It was a great two weeks. Didn't catch many fish, and definitely, no large ones. But I got to spend quality time with my son and two good friends.
The fishing was great!
After getting back from our trip, another fellow patroller came up to go fishing. Warren is, to describe him kindly, quite a character. He's one of those guys that seems to know everybody, and it always amazes me how many people I meet who know Warren.
To continue... Warren had told me he had a meeting at 0830 and we could leave as soon as he was finished. Come 1430 (2:30 PM) he finally called to say he would be ready shortly. He had mentioned that he wanted to go to Burgdorf and fish Lake Creek. I had fished it a couple of times and had no luck at all. Oh, well, we'll give it another try.
After driving a little over an hour, we arrived at the camp ground with access to the creek. Warren went upstream and I, downstream. Again, the only fish I came across was a couple of salmon that had came up to spawn. No brookies, no rainbows, not even a whitefish.
The high point of the trip was sitting on a rail fence, having a shot of scotch. Only having a cigar could have made it better.
The next day Warren said he had never been up toward Hazard Lakes and would like to check it out. Hazard is one of my favorite places to camp, and at times fishing can be great, but you need some way to get out on the lake to fish. We had nothing, so just looked at the lake and got back into the truck.
Next we drove down to the headwaters of Goose Creek. Another of my favorite streams, but I usually fish it a few miles down stream. But it was good! Sort of. Right off, Warren caught a beautiful little brookie, and right after that, I caught one. They were only about 8-10 inches, but, damn, we finally caught some fish. We played around for about an hour, caught a couple more, then had to leave so Warren could pick up his wife and drive home.
About noon on Monday Sean came by and asked if he could borrow some stuff. He was going to hike into a high mountain lake he had had an incredible trip to last year. He asked if I would like to go, but my old, out of shape butt could no way make the trip into the lake. It's three miles and about 1500' in elevation gain. No way I could make that.
He had came by to borrow a pistol because we have a big time wolf problem in Idaho. They were introduced about ten years ago, and have thrived in the back country. These are not the timber wolves that used to be here, but big, aggressive grey wolves brought down from Canada. They have been seen just a few miles out side of McCall. They have really reduced the elk population, though Fish and Game, to cover their asses, will tell you that is not true. Sean wasn't worried about himself, but was concerned for his dog.
Anyway, he was off with high expectations. And a big pack!
The next day he called about 1030. He was already back in town! And no fish. Said it was depressing. Would I like to hike into Louie Lake? This is another great lake to fish. It's about a mile hike with a 600' elevation gain. A steep, dusty, rocky trail, but I can handle that hike.
I was really surprised his wife would let him take off on another fishing trip. He has only been married for ten days, and has been fishing for four of those. My sister asked me why I took Sean on his honeymoon. Hahaha! Jenn must be pretty understanding.
He picked me up and we made the trip to Louie. Nice day, not too hot after the summer we've had so far. Took my dog, Huck. He's not quite two, and trying to get him trained has been a real challenge. So far he has ate two pair of flip flops, three hats, and a pair of hiking shoes. He also got into my fly tying materials one day. He almost saw his final day over that. But he's turning into a good dog. Growing kind of attached to him.
Made the trip in and to our delight, there was only one other fisherman there, and he was in a float tube out in the lake. We hurried and got set up and started fishing. About my fifth cast, and big one took the fly and dove for the bottom. Along with my tippet and fly. I hadn't change the 3# tippet I had be using, and Louie has big, fighting cutthroats.
Tied on another tippet and fly and went back to fishing. I kept hearing Sean cuss. He was getting hits, but nothing was taking the fly. We both tried flies different than our always great, can't go wrong, Chernobyl Ants. I got another strike and landed a nice 9" cut. Pretty fish, but consider that a fingerling in this trophy lake. After another half hour, I got another hit. A big one! Too bad he pre released.
Mean while, Sean hadn't caught anything. It was too bad, in that this was his favorite lake to fish. He went in there by himself last year and said he hooked over twenty fish. Of course he was by himself, and not one could substantiate his count, but we all know fishermen never lie.
Sean had finally had enough, and was ready to call it a day. We packed our gear and headed down the mountain. He saw some huckleberries, and figured taking home enough for huckleberry pancakes would help smooth things over with the new missus, so we stopped and picked about a pint. I should say I watched and he picked. I really don't like picking berries.
On to the car, and the drive back to town. We talked about how it was strange that every where we went, the fishing was weak. Was it the heat? Water has been warm everywhere. He had heard somewhere that when the salmon come up to spawn, the trout get out of town. Don't know about that, but something had the fish not biting.
It was a great two weeks. Didn't catch many fish, and definitely, no large ones. But I got to spend quality time with my son and two good friends.
The fishing was great!
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Lots of fishing, little catching.
In the last two weeks I got in a lot of fishing, and shot some great fly fishing photos. Too bad the catching wasn't as good.
It started last Monday, when a fellow ski patroller came up to go fishing. He's a farmer from Fruitland, and finally slowed down enough to take a couple days off. After getting all his honey-do's finished and a nice lunch, we were able to get up to the creek.
We tried a couple places on Lake Fork Creek, but, like I said, fishing was great, but catching was bad. We had a great time, and fished until we had to get home.
A couple days later, my son Sean came by with the idea we go to Bruce Meadows. Now Bruce Meadows is a beautiful, high elevation in Bear Valley. It's half way between McCall and Stanley on back roads. I had been wanting to get up there to fish and shoot photos all summer.
We threw everything we would need in the back of his Subaru, left the dogs behind, and took off. He had never been on the roads up to Bruce Meadows and was impressed by the country we drove through. Idaho is a beautiful place.
After the late start, we got there about five o'clock, only to find out that it was going to have to be a cold camp. Fire danger was extreme, and fires were burning in three directions around us. Not so close that we could see them, but lots of fire fighters in the area. An no campfires allowed! There goes some of the photos I had in mind.
First thing we did was grab the rods and see if the fish were biting. Sean hooked a 10" brook trout, and I caught a 6" one. That was all the catching for that day. I grabbed the camera and had Sean "pose" for some photos. He fished and I shot.
The one thing that was really great was that the salmon had made it all the way up to this small stream to spawn. Seeing a 25" salmon swimming in a 10' stream is pretty cool.
It was getting late, so dinner was cooked on the Coleman stove, martinis were made, and it's off to bed. Thinking that summer evenings wouldn't be too bad, Sean brought a summer weight bag. Said he froze his ass off all night long. May get into the eighties during the day, but at 6500', evenings can get pretty chilly.
We woke early and tried fishing again. Again, the fishing was better than the catching, so I went back to shooting. I was really excited about what I was seeing, and tried some shots that I had been thinking about.
About 10:00, we decided to see if wee would have better luck up around Stanley. A friend had told me had been having great luck at his cabin there, so what the hell. Stanley here we come!
The first thing we saw when we got there was that all the roads off the highway were closed. BIG fire just outside the town. We drove down the Salmon River for a few miles, but all the roads and turn outs were blocked and manned. No fishing here. Let's go check out Redfish Lake. Sean had never been to this Idaho icon and wanted to check it out. I had only been there a couple times in the off season, so neither of us were prepared for what we saw. Coney Island in the Sawtooths. Lots of families hanging out on the beach. Way too many people. We live in a resort town in the mountains, and summer is full of tourists boating and playing, but we didn't expect this up here. Get out of here! Quick!
Back to Stanley. First to the fly shop to get a little info on the fishing. No help there! Let's get a burger and figure out what to do. Went to the three eateries in town, and nothing looked good, so back in the car and down the river again. In Lower Stanley we saw a small cafe that looked good so thought we'd give it a try. Great choice. Wonderful cheeseburger, great fries, and red beer. All while setting on the deck over the Salmon River. High point of the trip.
We decided to go back to Bruce Meadows. We drove along Elk Creek checking it out, but nothing looked very promising, so we decided to go try Deadwood Creek. Again, not the greatest. Sean caught one small fish, but nothing for me. Let's see what's down the road.
Drove to an area called Landmark and noticed a small stream so decided to try it. Being small, we both grabbed the 3 wt. rods and went at it. Most fun I'd had. Little fish, but caught several. We played for about an hour and decided to call it enough and headed home.
Great trip! Loved spending the time with my son.
That's enough this evening. I'll post again tomorrow on the rest of the two week fishing adventure.
It started last Monday, when a fellow ski patroller came up to go fishing. He's a farmer from Fruitland, and finally slowed down enough to take a couple days off. After getting all his honey-do's finished and a nice lunch, we were able to get up to the creek.
We tried a couple places on Lake Fork Creek, but, like I said, fishing was great, but catching was bad. We had a great time, and fished until we had to get home.
A couple days later, my son Sean came by with the idea we go to Bruce Meadows. Now Bruce Meadows is a beautiful, high elevation in Bear Valley. It's half way between McCall and Stanley on back roads. I had been wanting to get up there to fish and shoot photos all summer.
We threw everything we would need in the back of his Subaru, left the dogs behind, and took off. He had never been on the roads up to Bruce Meadows and was impressed by the country we drove through. Idaho is a beautiful place.
After the late start, we got there about five o'clock, only to find out that it was going to have to be a cold camp. Fire danger was extreme, and fires were burning in three directions around us. Not so close that we could see them, but lots of fire fighters in the area. An no campfires allowed! There goes some of the photos I had in mind.
First thing we did was grab the rods and see if the fish were biting. Sean hooked a 10" brook trout, and I caught a 6" one. That was all the catching for that day. I grabbed the camera and had Sean "pose" for some photos. He fished and I shot.
The one thing that was really great was that the salmon had made it all the way up to this small stream to spawn. Seeing a 25" salmon swimming in a 10' stream is pretty cool.
It was getting late, so dinner was cooked on the Coleman stove, martinis were made, and it's off to bed. Thinking that summer evenings wouldn't be too bad, Sean brought a summer weight bag. Said he froze his ass off all night long. May get into the eighties during the day, but at 6500', evenings can get pretty chilly.
We woke early and tried fishing again. Again, the fishing was better than the catching, so I went back to shooting. I was really excited about what I was seeing, and tried some shots that I had been thinking about.
About 10:00, we decided to see if wee would have better luck up around Stanley. A friend had told me had been having great luck at his cabin there, so what the hell. Stanley here we come!
The first thing we saw when we got there was that all the roads off the highway were closed. BIG fire just outside the town. We drove down the Salmon River for a few miles, but all the roads and turn outs were blocked and manned. No fishing here. Let's go check out Redfish Lake. Sean had never been to this Idaho icon and wanted to check it out. I had only been there a couple times in the off season, so neither of us were prepared for what we saw. Coney Island in the Sawtooths. Lots of families hanging out on the beach. Way too many people. We live in a resort town in the mountains, and summer is full of tourists boating and playing, but we didn't expect this up here. Get out of here! Quick!
Back to Stanley. First to the fly shop to get a little info on the fishing. No help there! Let's get a burger and figure out what to do. Went to the three eateries in town, and nothing looked good, so back in the car and down the river again. In Lower Stanley we saw a small cafe that looked good so thought we'd give it a try. Great choice. Wonderful cheeseburger, great fries, and red beer. All while setting on the deck over the Salmon River. High point of the trip.
We decided to go back to Bruce Meadows. We drove along Elk Creek checking it out, but nothing looked very promising, so we decided to go try Deadwood Creek. Again, not the greatest. Sean caught one small fish, but nothing for me. Let's see what's down the road.
Drove to an area called Landmark and noticed a small stream so decided to try it. Being small, we both grabbed the 3 wt. rods and went at it. Most fun I'd had. Little fish, but caught several. We played for about an hour and decided to call it enough and headed home.
Great trip! Loved spending the time with my son.
That's enough this evening. I'll post again tomorrow on the rest of the two week fishing adventure.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
First days with Sean
Summer has finally arrived, and the waters are starting to drop, so I had a couple chances to get out and shoot some fly fishing photos. At this time, my son Sean is happy to be a model for me. It's a good excuse to give his girlfriend that he needs to go out fishing.
His step-son is here visiting, so our first trip we had Andre along. I had been wanting to go to Goose Creek and shoot from the bridge with someone fishing the riffles below.
We all got our waders and boots on, and Sean and Andre made their way down to the creek. It was a great opportunity shoot photos of a dad showing his son the art of fly fishing.
After shooting a little, I couldn't pass up the chance to fish. I put my camera up, grabbed my 3 wt., and joined them in the creek. My first chance of real stream fishing this year.
Now, Goose Creek is what I guess they call a freestone stream The creek bed is all rocks. Big rocks. No smooth small stones to wade on. Fishing this stream is a balancing act while you are casting. And wading to a new spot is really an adventure in balance for an old fart like me.
Right off I caught a small Brook trout. These little brookies are a kick in the butt to catch. They give you fun little fight on a light weight rod, and are pretty fish.
That was the only one I caught. The rest of the time I was balancing on slick rocks and trying not to fall and get my butt wet. Didn't work. After several near falls, I finally lost balance and went into the creek. Dropped the rod, and watched it float down stream. I wasn't really worried about losing it, there are enough rocks breaking the surface that, I knew it would get hung up. I was more concerned about how I looked going down. Would it be a slow, graceful decent into the rapids, or a flailing, comedic fall that give Sean and Andre great chuckles. You can guess which way I went down.
Andre did catch a couple nice fish, and we decided to call it an evening an go home.
The next evening Sean and I went up another stream to a spot I had noticed last year and wanted to get an evening shot.
When we got there, the water was too high, so we stood on the bank and talked about about nothing. Across the stream there was a camper van and a gentleman got out and started talking to us. He was from Australia and was traveling around the West rock climbing. Nice guy.
We then drove to different spots on the creek to look at conditions, and Sean decided he wanted to try fishing. He got ready to fish and I got out my camera gear. Got a few fun shots, and Sean didn't catch anything, so decided the day was done.
I enjoy this time with my son. Fishing has given us a bonding that I really wish I had with my other two boys. I love all of them as only a father can, but don't have the venue, like fishing,to get to spend the quality time with them as I do with Sean. I hope one day I can find something.
Thanks for following me.
Tom
His step-son is here visiting, so our first trip we had Andre along. I had been wanting to go to Goose Creek and shoot from the bridge with someone fishing the riffles below.
We all got our waders and boots on, and Sean and Andre made their way down to the creek. It was a great opportunity shoot photos of a dad showing his son the art of fly fishing.
After shooting a little, I couldn't pass up the chance to fish. I put my camera up, grabbed my 3 wt., and joined them in the creek. My first chance of real stream fishing this year.
Now, Goose Creek is what I guess they call a freestone stream The creek bed is all rocks. Big rocks. No smooth small stones to wade on. Fishing this stream is a balancing act while you are casting. And wading to a new spot is really an adventure in balance for an old fart like me.
Right off I caught a small Brook trout. These little brookies are a kick in the butt to catch. They give you fun little fight on a light weight rod, and are pretty fish.
That was the only one I caught. The rest of the time I was balancing on slick rocks and trying not to fall and get my butt wet. Didn't work. After several near falls, I finally lost balance and went into the creek. Dropped the rod, and watched it float down stream. I wasn't really worried about losing it, there are enough rocks breaking the surface that, I knew it would get hung up. I was more concerned about how I looked going down. Would it be a slow, graceful decent into the rapids, or a flailing, comedic fall that give Sean and Andre great chuckles. You can guess which way I went down.
Andre did catch a couple nice fish, and we decided to call it an evening an go home.
The next evening Sean and I went up another stream to a spot I had noticed last year and wanted to get an evening shot.
When we got there, the water was too high, so we stood on the bank and talked about about nothing. Across the stream there was a camper van and a gentleman got out and started talking to us. He was from Australia and was traveling around the West rock climbing. Nice guy.
We then drove to different spots on the creek to look at conditions, and Sean decided he wanted to try fishing. He got ready to fish and I got out my camera gear. Got a few fun shots, and Sean didn't catch anything, so decided the day was done.
I enjoy this time with my son. Fishing has given us a bonding that I really wish I had with my other two boys. I love all of them as only a father can, but don't have the venue, like fishing,to get to spend the quality time with them as I do with Sean. I hope one day I can find something.
Tom
Monday, June 18, 2012
New Photos
I'm sure a lot of new bloggers have the same problem, needing to blog, and doing it more than every couple months.
Trying to come up with a subject to write about is tough enough, but my biggest problem is remembering to log on an post something. Oh, well, enough of my whining, on with todays rambling.
Every summer, McCall Arts and Humanities Council holds an art action as a fund raising event. The venue is hosted by the Davidson and Shaver families in beautiful Charlie's Garden. With wine tasting and food by local restaurants, it is fun to attend. Hopefully the attendees will spend lots of money on the art.
I have been lucky to have been part of this event for the last 10+ years. Last year they started jurying the artists, but it seemed to be only a formality, leading up to this years first time of really picking the artists who will be invited to attend. Have to admit, it made me nervous. Not belonging to a gallery or having any other venue to show and (hopefully) sell my art, this is an important event to me. Besides that, is just down right fun to attend.
I did make the cut with some new work. Last year one of my pieces was chosen as one of the Jury's Choices, but it didn't sell. The other pieces sold, so maybe being part of the selected circle wasn't that great of a thing. Though I am honored by the choice of my work.
I thought I would show a couple of my pieces that I am showing this year. It is a new direction for me, and I am very excited on what new roads it is opening to me. They are, I guess, abstract pieces. Not the normal reality that I was pursuing in the past. It seems like every time I try a new technique, something exciting happens, and a new idea pops up.
The first one is of some blossoms on a tree across from where I live. I had an idea and when I noticed the flowers, I did some experiments, and one of them I really liked.
A friend, and past client, who is also pursuing a new direction in life, and whose input I respect, said it had a very ethereal feel. I think I am going to put it in the show, but need to see it large and framed first.
The second one I call coming storm, and again, a new look for me.
The third I call, for now, Spring Plants. It is similar to what I had in last years show. Working with motion is an interesting direction.
Trying to come up with a subject to write about is tough enough, but my biggest problem is remembering to log on an post something. Oh, well, enough of my whining, on with todays rambling.
Every summer, McCall Arts and Humanities Council holds an art action as a fund raising event. The venue is hosted by the Davidson and Shaver families in beautiful Charlie's Garden. With wine tasting and food by local restaurants, it is fun to attend. Hopefully the attendees will spend lots of money on the art.
I have been lucky to have been part of this event for the last 10+ years. Last year they started jurying the artists, but it seemed to be only a formality, leading up to this years first time of really picking the artists who will be invited to attend. Have to admit, it made me nervous. Not belonging to a gallery or having any other venue to show and (hopefully) sell my art, this is an important event to me. Besides that, is just down right fun to attend.
I did make the cut with some new work. Last year one of my pieces was chosen as one of the Jury's Choices, but it didn't sell. The other pieces sold, so maybe being part of the selected circle wasn't that great of a thing. Though I am honored by the choice of my work.
I thought I would show a couple of my pieces that I am showing this year. It is a new direction for me, and I am very excited on what new roads it is opening to me. They are, I guess, abstract pieces. Not the normal reality that I was pursuing in the past. It seems like every time I try a new technique, something exciting happens, and a new idea pops up.
The first one is of some blossoms on a tree across from where I live. I had an idea and when I noticed the flowers, I did some experiments, and one of them I really liked.
The second one I call coming storm, and again, a new look for me.
If anyone is reading this blog, please feel free to leave input on what you think of this work. Hopefully you like it.
Thanks for reading!
Tom
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Spring is here!
Normally, in our little mountain town, spring usually waits until the end of May to finally arrive. This year it started in April, and May has had some wonderful days. Warm enough to get out and see how fishing may be.
The rivers are still high, but not too high.
My youngest son, Sean, moved back to McCall in December, so I now have a reliable fishing partner. Sean loves fly fishing, and is very serious about the science and art of the sport. Having him around is going to make it a great summer.
We went down to the river last week to shoot some fishing photos, and I got some that I really like. Can't wait to get out to shoot some more.
On Tuesday this week, we actually tried fishing. First we went to a small pond which has always been a great place to go catch some fish early in the year. As soon as the ice melts, it has, in the past, had some nice rainbows that made it through the winter. Fat things that must have had plenty of food under the ice. Always have caught a few the first time out. Not this time! Sean got a strike, but no fish.
Next we drove up Lake Fork Creek. A great little stream that we fish until the snow comes and closes the road. We had to break through several patches of snow still on the road. I got kind of nervous a few times. No shovel in the truck, so getting stuck would have really sucked. But Sean did a great job of easing through the snow, no problem.
We stopped at the first hole, but couldn't see any fish. This stream is so clear, you can see them lying on the bottom. Sean tried casting a few times, but nothing. We then drove to the next hole, and the same thing. Zilch. Not a big deal. Getting back up into the mountains in the spring is always a great thing. That's enjoyable enough.
We then stopped at a small spur road that was closed and walked down to the stream. I had never been down there so we thought we would check it out.
What a treat! This part of the creek widened out with great riffles and undercut banks. It meanders through a meadow, with enough boulders and rocks for the fish, it should be a great place both for fishing and shooting some photos. Hope to get up there this weekend and see what I can get.
Did check out a couple more spots around the area, and have some more possibilities when the water warms up a little. I am lucky enough to live a one of the greatest areas in the country. All these places were no more than thirty minutes from my house, and except for one, are never heavily fished.
It looks like it could be a great summer!
The rivers are still high, but not too high.
My youngest son, Sean, moved back to McCall in December, so I now have a reliable fishing partner. Sean loves fly fishing, and is very serious about the science and art of the sport. Having him around is going to make it a great summer.
We went down to the river last week to shoot some fishing photos, and I got some that I really like. Can't wait to get out to shoot some more.
On Tuesday this week, we actually tried fishing. First we went to a small pond which has always been a great place to go catch some fish early in the year. As soon as the ice melts, it has, in the past, had some nice rainbows that made it through the winter. Fat things that must have had plenty of food under the ice. Always have caught a few the first time out. Not this time! Sean got a strike, but no fish.
Next we drove up Lake Fork Creek. A great little stream that we fish until the snow comes and closes the road. We had to break through several patches of snow still on the road. I got kind of nervous a few times. No shovel in the truck, so getting stuck would have really sucked. But Sean did a great job of easing through the snow, no problem.
We stopped at the first hole, but couldn't see any fish. This stream is so clear, you can see them lying on the bottom. Sean tried casting a few times, but nothing. We then drove to the next hole, and the same thing. Zilch. Not a big deal. Getting back up into the mountains in the spring is always a great thing. That's enjoyable enough.
We then stopped at a small spur road that was closed and walked down to the stream. I had never been down there so we thought we would check it out.
What a treat! This part of the creek widened out with great riffles and undercut banks. It meanders through a meadow, with enough boulders and rocks for the fish, it should be a great place both for fishing and shooting some photos. Hope to get up there this weekend and see what I can get.
Did check out a couple more spots around the area, and have some more possibilities when the water warms up a little. I am lucky enough to live a one of the greatest areas in the country. All these places were no more than thirty minutes from my house, and except for one, are never heavily fished.
It looks like it could be a great summer!
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