The Beginning of a Sunflower

Today my friend Bernadette told me that every time she looks out her window at her sunflowers, she thinks of me. She was inspired by my photos of sunflowers, a couple of blog-posts ago. The sunflowers that I captured in my pictures, ironically, were growing in front of a school where she used to teach.

We are kindred spirits in a way, both having been raised as "Catlicks" (that's Catholics to the rest of you!) in the Valley. Mine was the Lackawanna Valley and hers was the Wilkes Barre Valley. So, these Bernadette, are for you!

Cornfields and Silos

A pretty familiar sight in Bradford County late in the summer. These silos are right up the road from me.

Bright Red Barn

Different parts of Pennsylvania have different traditions of barn architecture and color. Bright red is a staple of Bradford County Barns. Nothing looks prettier against a bright blue sky.

Troy Town Cruisers, Part 2

(I think my dad had a car similar to the blue one above!)

After receiving advice from some antique, car-loving cousins, I went back for a second try. I discovered that taking photos of old cars is kind of hard, especially in a crowded parking lot. But, I will say this, the Troy Town Cruisers LOVE their cars, and have a great time showing them off. There is always a large crowd, both spectators and owners, with a lot of interaction, music, and ice cream!

You can see the whole collection in my google + album!

Little League World Series

 

Every year, in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, people gather from all over the world to watch 11 and 12 year old baseball players compete in the Little League World Series. Williamsport, PA is known as the birthplace of Little League. Famous for it's natural amphitheater, spectators gather either in the bleachers or on the hills that surround the outfield. A popular activity for children is to slide  joyfully down the grassy hill on a piece of cardboard. On rainy days, this can become a muddy water slide that delights fans of all ages.

The Little League International Grove hosts the players from around the world in dormitories that provide swimming, ping pong, and other recreational activities. Famous sportscasters from ABC and ESPN can be seen mingling in with the crowd, as well as the occasional professional baseball player who once graced the playing field in South Williamsport.

Fans of all ages enjoy the inexpensive and delicious food prepared by local volunteers. Another favorite activity is exchanging pins among players and fans. A youngster's collection of pins can weigh several pounds, and require a suitcase for transportation.

Families, tourists, grandparents, and baseball fans of all ages enjoy the sight of youngsters playing baseball without the threat of steroids, players' strikes, or high salaries. The managers and coaches are dads and uncles, and the loudest fans are moms and grandmas. The hot, dusty days of August are perfect for enjoying an afternoon of baseball at the Little League World Series.

You can see more Little League World Series photographs in my google + album!

The Windmill Farm and Craft Market

The Windmill Farm and Craft Market in the Fingerlakes Region of New York State is located between Penn Yan and Dundee, NY. It is open on Saturdays between April and October, and has over 200 shops. Everything from crafts to fresh fruits and vegetables to wine can be found here. There are quite a few eating establishments, as well as fresh baked Amish goods. You can find homemade furniture, candles, and even baby bonnets! There might even be entertainment, like a high school steel drum band!

You can see more pictures in my google + album!