Saturday, February 16, 2013

Meet Kevin

Welcome to Kevin's world.  Kevin is my grandson and he is one of the most important people in my life.  From the time he was a little boy to the present he always has been talented in so many positive ways.  He has a unique ability to create one of a kind items especially items with wheels.  First came the bicycles leading to building a ramp for trick riding. Soon the garage had quads, motorcycles, parts and more parts.  Unfortunately no room for cars, but soon a very large building became Kevin's workshop.  The following photos speak for his favorite passion.

 

  

Generally it is during the spring, summer and fall the races take place.  Some races are close by, while others require a distance to travel.




Sometimes the terrain is rough and tangled.  Dry ground is better, because if it is muddy the cyclist looks quite different than when he entered the race.




 This trophy along with another showed Kevin as first place winner.



Today the cycle is ready to ride, but after a trail race, tomorrow it can be scattered on the floor of the garage ready for an overhaul.  He strives for perfection.




It's amazing how many trophies he has.  There are big, small, plaques, figures and at least 99% are first place.




He rides like a real pro because that is what he is.




This is just a sampling of his achievement awards.  There are boxes and boxes of reminders of races won.

 

 

From water to dirt a real rider must ride.




There's always room for one more.  I'm just glad this sport is not year round.  When the truck comes in at night, I'm especially glad to know he is home and safe.




This is my favorite photo,  I worry about the extended leg, the tilt of the cycle, and the wooded terrain, but that's what grandmothers do---Worry--!!!


 

 

 

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Bear Family

It only took the words,  "Every bear needs a home" and the journey began.  Perhaps I will refer this post as chapter one, since every bear needs recognition.  This indicates there will be more to come.  It's a hobby I have enjoyed, but my bear family has grown considerably and I'm practicing the art of not adding new members.  Some are made of wood, others are soft and cuddly but each has a story to tell because they each have their own personality.  Since the winter weather in New Jersey hasn't been very pleasant, it's been fun remembering how, when, and where these little guys and gals came from.


 


Big guy welcomes you.  He makes a great door greeter during the holidays and winter months.






This  Boyd bear is a real charmer.  Apparently she has model qualities, since she has her own figurine.




Honey is carved out of a tree.  The varnish has bubbled on top of the pot and it looks rather authentic.




Meet the keeper of the toy box.  He isn't soft and cuddly, but he is cute as can be.




Personal  appearance is always necessary, keep a mirror close by.



Our little Coke bear seems to have a smile.  His little wagon certainly is the way to travel and to deliver the beverage of the day.


 

Snow bears on a sled.  The little winter hats and scarves are always in season, for humans or bears.




It takes a trip to Disneyland or the right flea-market to find a Big Al.  As you can see he has had his appearance change over the years, but he is still the favorite character in the Country Bears show.




 

This is what to do with a discarded fur coat.  Maddy and Paddy were hand crafted and they came with birth certificates.


 


Off we go into the wild blue yonder,

Climbing high into the sun:

Here they come zooming to meet our thunder,

 At 'm boys, Give'er the gun!

Down we dive, spouting our flame from under,

 Off with one helluva roar!                                                                                 

We live in flame or go down in flame.  Hey!

Nothing'll stop the U.S. Air Force!





From the Halls of Montezuma,

To the shores of Tripoli:

We fight our country's battles,

In the air, on land, and sea:

First to fight for right and freedom

And to keep our honor clean,

We are proud to claim the title of United States Marines.