On a Dark Desert Highway...

Kathy and I arrived in Tucumcari New Mexico with time to check into our hotel and have dinner before driving over to the famous Blue Swallow Motel to take some sunset images. We spotted their iconic neon sign shining brightly in the dark from quite a way off. The sight immediately reminded me of the opening lyrics of the Eagles song "Hotel California". We had visited Tucumcari a couple of years earlier but didn't stay in town so we only saw the Blue Swallow at mid-day. Tucumcari is a cool little town on Route 66 and very worth visiting.

1954 Chevy Bel Air Station Wagon at Sunrise

Shoot right into the sun? Go ahead, break the rules. HDR dominates here.

San Diego Air and Space Museum's Scooter

Here is another flawlessly restored A-4 Skyhawk. This one is wearing the the livery of the USS Hancock's attack squadron 212, aircraft 302 which was once piloted by commander Frank C. Green who was lost over North Vietnam on July 10, 1972 during an armed recon mission. He was listed as missing in action until 2008 when his remains were recovered. He was interred at Miramar National Cemetery in 2010.

The USS Midway's Scooter

The Douglas A-4 Skyhawk was a very versatile aircraft. Originally designed as a nuclear bomber, this aircraft was able to fly from many smaller world war II aircraft carriers due to it's small size. It fulfilled many roles including air-to-air refuler, light attack, and even filled the agressor aircraft role for Top Gun. The US Navy Blue Angels flew it due to it's nimble performance and ease of maintenance. This small reliable aircraft quickly earned the nickname Scooter.

Pretty Maids

I realize how fortunate I am to be able to experience these great events. I used to live just down the street from a location where an amazing car show was held each year so going to a great show like the Chicano Park day show feels like going home again.

Impala Inbound

We spotted this cool impala nearly as soon as we entered the Chicano park area. I didn't have my camera out of my bag yet and it slowly cruised past us down the street leading to the park. Thankfully, I saw it crusing by once again and this time I did have my camera ready and captured several images of it.

The Lesson