Let me start out right by saying I love shooting assignments for the Fresno Bee. I get to go places and meet people I never would have imagined even existed. I guess that’s part of the allure of news – getting to see lives you never would have had a chance to know about otherwise.

Sometimes, however, the types of assignments I get are paradoxical. (OK, I finally got to use the word ‘paradoxical’ in a sentence. My life is complete). This week for example I had the assignment to shoot a business called ‘Thimble Towne’. They are absolutely dedicated to the full contact artist expressions of quilting and sewing. Need fabric? TT is the place. Lessons? Everyday of the week! Sewing machines? You betcha!

Here is photographic evidence that I shot my assignment with all the due professionalism I could muster…

My second assignment was not the ‘normal’ run of the mill assignment. In fact, it was paranormal…

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I confess, I was never much of a cat person. I always related well to dogs but cats typically didn’t interest me so much because of how aloof they can be.

Then we got Mischief.

Watching this kitty learn and play is must-see-TV around this house lately.  Even our two dogs sit back and watch her chase shadowy, imaginary prey across the living room floor.

This kitty also gives me a new subject to try out my new 35mm f/2 lens on. It was an anniversary gift from my ever understanding wife.  You see, I react much like a kitty with catnip when I get a new lens.  I prefer to think of it as unlocking vast creative ideas deep inside my soul when I try a new lens. My wife’s opinion is far more succinct and slightly different from mine, she says I get ‘lens stupid’.  OK, enough of our opinion poll…

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