Beachfront American Pride

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Beachside American Pride by Chip Bunnell Photography

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I love to celebrate the birth of our nation by walking around the morning of July 4 and finding people showing their American pride. I have been fortunate to carry on this tradition in various parts of our country, but this morning I was home based. When at home, there is no place better to walk than the beach!

The town was off to a sleepy start as many reposed after their 1st night of their 3 day weekend. The deep growl of approaching storms added a perfectly orchestrated sound track. Little by little, individuals and families began to stake out their own beachfront real estate for the day. The local chair rental pro was setting up his umbrellas while the lifeguards were positioning themselves for a busy Saturday at the ocean. Large gray clouds added texture and interest above.

As I made my walk, I noticed that one of the iconic lifeguard stations was proudly flying an American flag from his rail. This single station, being the only one adorned in our nation’s symbol, made me think that this was not placed by the city, but rather a single individual wanting to show his national pride. I saw it as a sign of gratitude to all those freedom-loving patriots before us and the sacrifices they made. There was no great fanfare or spotlight, just a simple American flag hanging proudly for all to notice.

On this July 4th, take a moment to show your love our nation and the freedoms we enjoy. Celebrate this special anniversary and give thanks to those that made our freedom’s possible. Happy Independence Day – May God bless the USA!

Photo Stuff: Single frame, processed in LR and Topaz Clarity

www.ChipBunnell.com
©2015 All Rights Reserved

4 Spring to a Break

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4 Spring for a Break by Chip Bunnell Photography

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Imagine, if you will, four college friends. All are successful, each with individual talents. Each is fun loving, bright, ambitious and very well mannered, even around their elders like me. They share a love of all things Wisconsin and cheered as the badgers recently took down their Kentucky rivals. In addition, they share a common love of music. No, they are not rappers or leftovers from a past hair-band era. Our musical friends are, dare I say, far more talented. They have all been part of the award winning A Cappella singing group, Fundamentally Sound.

The harsh Wisconsin winter finally subsided enough to allow our nephew Vinnie, and three of his good friends, to fold themselves in a single small car for their Spring Break 2015 Adventure! With plenty capable drivers on board, they quickly drove to the promised land – a land of sun, sand and surf – South Florida! Over their almost week-long foray into the paradise we call home, they sunned on the beach, walked in the sand, kayaked among alligators, and most importantly, lived a little of the SoBe (South Beach) nightlife.  In short, they generally had a great time! We were excited to spend a few precious moments with such wonderful young men.  After we said our good-byes and they once again headed to the northern tundra, I am happy to say that I would call them each my friend.

Here’s to celebrating Spring Break, even if we are a few years past our 20’s. And most importantly, here’s to spending time with wonderful family members and the fun people they add to our lives!

Check out Fundamentally Sound’s recent video (picked up by Sports Illustrated) with star Wisconsin basketball star Frank Kaminsky. Vinnie is screen right with the laptop and David faces off with Frank!  http://bit.ly/1xEha7l

Photo Stuff: Single Frame, Processed in LR and Topaz Clarity

www.ChipBunnell.com
©2015 All Rights Reserved