Hazleton Pennsylvania

                             



                             

Dr. Michael Apichella is a widely published award winning writer, professor, teacher, public speaker, and artist. He earned a MA in Communications from Wheaton College and PhD in English and creative writing from Univ. of Wales. He takes time out of his busy life to write a column for the Hazleton Standard Speaker. He recently published an article, "Coal, suits, art, Chicken Pluckers-our legacy" for the Hazleton Standard Speaker newspaper. His articles make my sisters, relatives, and friends, from Hazleton remember the hard working, intelligent, industrious, and blended people that we come from. These individuals helped shape our lives and choices by showing us that a lot of work really does pay off. I would give anything to sink my teeth into that real Italian Cold Cut.

Cambria's Scarecrow and Harvest Festival

                

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I love to go to Cambria this time of year and snap pictures. Cambria locals have spirit. Last year there were over 250 scarecrows to see. There is something about those early dark nights and Cambria artistic garden delights. The local folks decorate their storefronts and yards to create fantastical sculpture gardens. They create a roadside environment that make you want to stay up late and get into some kinda trouble. The Scarecrow and Harvest Festival runs Oct 12-14.

I Want My Ninja! Tee

        

                                              

                                            
                                   

My Ninja! Clothing Line was developed by music producer and designer Peter Hong.
 I found out about the line from JamesTanouye. I was immediately taken by the creative logo and message of Peter's street fashion.  His shirts convey a statement that allows individuals of today to connect and blend their cultures. This is a creative way to remind us that our blended backgrounds have something to teach each other. His mission is that  We Love, We Live, We Balance, and We Forgive. I like what this guy is designing and I like his street sense. I think some street photographers may be buying these soon. Love the colors and various letter styles.

Christopher and Dinah Lee

We had another successful buying trip to GOWA CREATIVE ARTS in Cambria. This is the fashion store of designers Christopher and Dinah Lee. We caught Christopher before he took off for a trip to Paris. He is a pleasure to buy from, because he not only knows the clothes he designs, but he actually assists you in fitting you and telling you what colors suit you. Deb bought a gorgeous top/jacket for her big event in NYC in December. I bought a stunning scarf with crystals hanging from the edges that I have worn several times since the splurge and also wear it around town on my handbag. This is the place to shop for special silk and chiffon fabrics for that special event. You will not regret this shopping trip. It is always special.

The Untouchable Intouchables

Untouchables is a French Film directed by Olivier Nakache and Eric Toledano. It is about the unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic and a young poor man from the ghettos who is hired as his caregiver. It made us laugh and cry. It brings to light the closeness that caretakers have with people they care for on a daily basis. It is one we will try to see again on the big screen. Do not miss this fantastic film.

There is No Falling Back

These were taken out at the San Luis Botanic Garden. Fall is here. Fall is a time for building your immune system and enjoying the warm colors and weather changes. In Coastal California, we get to enjoy the warmer weather patterns. Fall brings to us photographers some of the most amazing colors. The  nights get shorter. Make the best of this time. Invest in a floor or table lamp. Embrace the change.

A Smile Goes A Long Way

                       

People smile. Pets smile. One of my favorite things to do is to smile at a crying baby. They either continue to ball their little eyes out, or they change their frown into a potential smile. The photo at the top of the page is a man from the Summer Solstice Parade in Santa Barbara. The Street Art is Andre (Paris), and the smiling animals are my nephew Lucky and neice Tesse.