On the Waterfront – Pongsona + 20

(Pensacola, Florida; Dec. 8, 2022) –Typhoon Pongsona schwacked the island of Guam twenty years ago today. I arrived on the island for my new assignment at the Fleet Imaging Command, Pacific's photo lab aboard Naval Base Guam barely three weeks earlier in November. I landed on island just after my 32nd birthday, but don't let … Continue reading On the Waterfront – Pongsona + 20

On the Waterfront – Kris Kringle’s Critically Cautionary Christmas Carol

(Pensacola, Florida; Dec. 1, 2022) – The holiday season is upon us! For Christians such as myself, the Christmas season marks the birth of Jesus Christ. For Jews, Hanukkah commemorates the retaking of Jerusalem during the 2nd Century B.C.E., as well as the Miracle of the Oil (when the supply of lamp oil, only enough … Continue reading On the Waterfront – Kris Kringle’s Critically Cautionary Christmas Carol

New Short Takes Video – The Blackwater River!

New Short Takes video: https://youtu.be/MRNhFpTMzxY The Blackwater River is one of northwest Florida’s hidden gems. The state’s Blackwater State Park and Blackwater State Forest preserve the largest contiguous stretch of long-needle pine and wire grass forest in the world. Canoe, kayaking, and tubing are popular ways to explore this quiet stretch of pristine Florida wilderness! … Continue reading New Short Takes Video – The Blackwater River!

On the Waterfront – Sailing into History – An American Lion’s Independence Day

(Pensacola, Florida; July 4, 2022) – The amphibious transport dock USS Ponce (LPD 15) is now enjoying her sunset days in a Texas scrapyard, her long career over and her decks quiet until the torches begin their work. However, the Proud Lion represented the Navy—and, by extension, the United States—on many occasions throughout her history. … Continue reading On the Waterfront – Sailing into History – An American Lion’s Independence Day

On the Waterfront – On Eagle’s Wings

(Pensacola, Florida; June 9, 2022) – I possess the oddest collection of personal connections to ships I never served aboard. Just as one example: despite numerous attempts, I never set foot aboard the carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65)—even as a mere visitor. However, every ship I did sail aboard participated in an official formation photo-op … Continue reading On the Waterfront – On Eagle’s Wings

Just My Thoughts – The Duck has Landed!

(Pensacola, Florida; 29 October, 2021) – The duck has landed! I am safely and happily ensconced in the Emerald Duck. Move-in day was last Thursday (24 hours early—Yay!). Not having a traditional full-time job this time, I was able to concentrate the full force of my vast powers of hyperactive obsession on the toil of … Continue reading Just My Thoughts – The Duck has Landed!

Just My Thoughts – Almost Home!

(Niceville, Florida; October 17, 2021) – The long journey I embarked upon this past May is nearly over as I engage in the final prep work around the Emerald Duck before my household goods. *WHEW!* This has been an intense and busy time, and it’s not going to slow down anytime soon! My household goods … Continue reading Just My Thoughts – Almost Home!

Short Takes – The Pensacola Lighthouse!

New Short Takes video! The Pensacola Lighthouse has been the light our lives here along the northwestern Florida Gulf Coast! Two towers have illuminated this waterway. The modern tower was even a strategic target for both the Confederates and Union forces during the Civil War! Take a brief walk around the grounds and climb the … Continue reading Short Takes – The Pensacola Lighthouse!

Just My Thoughts – Building a Home

(Niceville, Florida; August 2, 2021) – The future Emerald Duck has been revealed. I’m not talking about an aquatic avian possessing a scintillatingly deep and brilliantly luscious green plumage, nor am I talking about a statue of a water-loving bird carved from a vibrantly green and extraordinarily valuable gemstone. I’m talking about a townhouse. I … Continue reading Just My Thoughts – Building a Home

Just My Thoughts – Let the Sunshine State In!

(Niceville, Florida; July 22, 2021) – Life has a way of surprising you, and I don’t mean with an unexpected party. I departed Washington State May 9th on a circuitous path leading through places such as the magnificent Grand Canyon, historic roads like Route 66 across New Mexico and Texas, the sun-kissed Gulf Coast, the … Continue reading Just My Thoughts – Let the Sunshine State In!