During out anniversary week we decided to take a trip to Chattanooga for a weekend getaway. I had this idea we could run down there and eat lunch, shop, and then grab a room for the night (without reservations). Wow, was I wrong... Chattanooga has and continues to grow into a beautiful town. Knoxville is running behind in my opinion for sure. Anyway we did make it down there and did some shopping grabbed lunch then decided to take in Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls, and Rock City.

Whew... it was SOOO busy!! That's when we were asked if we were in town for one of the 4 softball tournaments, Riverbend, some other convention or just visiting? Hahaha THAT'S why there were no rooms ANYWHERE and it was packed with people. IT was a great little trip, but next time we'll book a room a little farther out... Here is a gallery of the pictures (Mostly Ruby Falls) which is worth the trip and for sure needs to be seen if you never have. I had been YEARS ago as a kid but it is much more appreciated now as an adult.

 I really look forward to going back to Chattanooga for a weekend trip maybe this fall. Such a wonderful town with so much to do. 

From Lookout Mountain looking to Chattanooga

Hello everyone! Ok so this isn't gonna be really related to photography other than there are pictures however it is another hobby that I have had for many years... wow, decades even. Yes plural... umm a little over three decades to be exact! I thought this would be a great place to post these updates as well as a small gallery of our results. As always check it out and feel free to comment or let me know what you think. If you can't wait and have to look NOW here's the link to the gallery.

It's that time of year when the fish in the East Tennessee area start to migrate to spawning areas. This drives many of us to the numerous local lakes to pursue these fish whether in an attempt to fill a cooler (for dinner) or for the pure sport/enjoyment of the catch. For the most part my time fishing has been the later of the two. I have (I should say WE have as my Dad along with friends got me into fishing waaaaay back when...) on occasion kept our catch to eat but very rarely. Most of the fishing I do is for pure sport and in pursuit of what's known as a "lunker" which in fisherman's terms is the biggest fish or at the least a very big fish! I had the opportunity to get to one of these lakes on Friday April 24th with a very good friend Eric. It turned out to be an awesome trip!! As will be shown in the small gallery. Every fish didn't make it to a photo op but there are a few that were worth it. Hmm so it IS photography related... kinda. As you can see I caught my new PB (personal best) today!!! YES!!! What a thrill!! It was awesome! Thanks to Eric as I almost didn't land the fish she fought so hard!! Here's to many more days with friends and family spending time doing what you enjoy (in this case fishing). AND here's to the continued pursuit of my NEW PB! Oh for those who have no clue or are curious the fish in the gallery are crappie and Largemouth bass. And that big girl, we figure to be one side or other of 6 pounds!! Awesome day! Thanks for going Eric!

PS There will be no fish on the menu this weekend as a fish such as that I'll not keep.... She's out there for another person to catch. Let 'em go.... let 'em grow.

If you're so impatient you can't wait here is the link to the gallery. Sherissa was contacted to help brainstorm ideas for and then shoot a session with Cooper for his first birthday!!! YAAY!!! To think, we were all that little and innocent at one time!! Haha She then contacted me to ask if I'd be interested in helping so I jumped at the chance. Brent & Sherissa brought the newest member of their family also. Dizzy was in quite a few shots but I liked this one about the best in this gallery where she's giving a kiss. I've got to include a quick shot I grabbed as Sherissa was down getting some of Cooper on the blanket/throw.

Sherissa capturing a great shot!!(c)John Alley@2014 He took off towards her as she's shooting away!! You can see the resulting pictures in the gallery. It was a blast!! Happy Birthday Cooper!!! Time goes so fast.... Here's to many more!