Deep in of North Philadelphia, is Fletcher Street, where one unusual block sticks out from the rest of the rows and rows of eerily quiet, ghost town-esque row homes. On this block there is a stable. A quiet, but lively, fun, safe place, where kids and old folks gather to hang out with the horses and have a good time. I went there, hoping to get a riding fix, or at least be among the animals so near to my heart, that I miss so much from my days as a country girl. As I was driving around the neighborhood, which, by the way, is kinda scary, I reflected on the pros and cons of living in the city that I love so much, verses the country, where I grow up, and also love. Anyway, I met Erin, the riding instructor, and she put me on Dollar, her 17 year old Quarter Horse stallion. Before I knew it, I was in hand gallop, moving freely across an open field, with the distant Philadelphia skyline resting beneath cloudy November skies . Turns out it’s possible to have the best of both worlds, after all.

Outside the Apple Store: Walnut St, Philadelphia

 

Ethan & Aiden

Aiden Being Grumpy

My nephews, photographed in Caywood, with Kodak Ektar 100 Film.

Hendrix with Leo, Post Puppy Pre-Wash

My friends’ son, Hendrix, pictured with Leo, a Terrier – Maltese – Chihuahua mix. In the house I grew up in, with lots of people and tons of dishes, a tiny sink and no dishwasher, this is a necessary step. The dogs are always eager to help with after dinner clean-up. Shot with Kodak Ektar 100.

Artista 400 Speed B&W

Highlights of my return to the Homeland in July. Photographed with Fujifilm Superia 200 Speed Film, Canon A1. Senaca Lake, Lodi, NY.