February 2023
**TRAINS AND CHANGE**
I haven’t photographed trains much. It is a subject that can fall to cliche’ quite easy, hence my reluctance.
When I first moved to Marathon, Shumake Hardware was still open. It’s the building in town that now has a rabbit painted on it.
I asked him how many trains come through a day?
He said “If you count them it means you're crazy.”
Then he said "13”
Brides and Grooms, musicians and bands pose walking one way or the other down the tracks to absolute corniness.
Every imaginable thing is transported on trains. I've seen military equipment and tank, those wind generators, new automobiles.
On the west side of town there is no train arms or even lights at the crossing to warn you that a train is coming. One day I was driving towards it and was mesmerized by the light on the glass mountains, and I drove right through it. A train was on the horn. Three seconds later, and I may have been history.
That’s how life is. It changes in a second. Getting used to the always changing times is something that is difficult for me. Especially when several big ones come at you at once.
My Mom used to say that bad things come in threes. But sometimes it’s more.
Marci is still dealing with the after effects of Covid, but I think finally there is light at the end of the tunnel. The last couple of days she has had more energy.
In the past I have mentioned the "Ranch Project." I was hired to photograph a private ranch to make photographs for the 12,000 sq. ft. home looking down on the Pecos River that was being built. It was one of the greatest assignments I've ever had. The icing on the cake was getting to know, spend time with and photograph the family. Three beautiful daughters, a handsome son, and all of their children and husbands. Well, the ranch was sold and last weekend the family and I spent the weekend celebrating, reminiscing and crying. I am really going to miss it. I can't wait to see what Ted does next.
Last month I mentioned the derailment west of town, and how I had asked Ike Roberts to pose for me in front of those trains, and when I drove out they were all gone except for a pile of rubble and so I didn't get to do it.
Driving home from the celebrating the ranch Tim, Ike's son called to tell me Ike had passed away. This was just too much. Sally, Sue and Ike, now all gone just breaks my heart. They have always treated me like family. Ike was good natured and had a good sense of humor. I loved them all. Photography has opened doors for me that other business could.
I am so thankful I got to know and make portraits of all these people.
Love is the King.
Happy Full Moon.
Get Outside.
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Banner Image Panoramic from the Ranch Project.