Self diagnosed.
Our good friends Drew and Kelsie spontaneously invited Alexis and I to Hawaii with them. Good company and paradise? Who would say no?
We spent a day and night in the touristy and beautiful Waikiki, enjoying the calm waters and local eats. Seeking the local experience, we drove in our tiny convertible across the island to the North Shore. We stayed the rest of our nights at a small beach house, in a Mai Tai fueled state of rest and relaxation. Day after day, we explored, watched sunsets, and emptied our cups. It was nice to just slow down for a change.
Thanks for having us along.
At least they aren’t using MapQuest printouts anymore.
Mom and Dad exploring the Huntington Library.
The college I went to, wrote and printed their own textbooks for many of their courses. I was hired by them before I even graduated to be the illustrator for all their books. These images are a few samples of the work I was doing.
Come a long way since. Bizarre looking back and thinking I was content with it for a time. Met some great people, but I didn’t belong there. Co-workers told me I didn’t belong there. The person who hired me told me I didn’t belong there. Sure enough, I got a call one day, and put in my 2 weeks the next.
Glad I had the opportunity, more glad I didn’t settle.
My friend Jon Kim, who once convinced me he was from, and escaped North Korea. I believed and told this to people for at least a year. Still a running joke.
For years now, no longer than a few weeks have gone by without catching up over beers. Sometimes talking about nothing, sometimes talking with weight in our words. Always enjoyed the conversations.
He’s moving to Seattle today, so there’ll be a bit less of all that. I’m glad to see him go though. Nothing sad about a friend chasing opportunity, trying to better their life. Upwards and onwards.
Godspeed Jon Kim.
Spring Shaving
Blue Ridge Mountain Blues performed by Wayne White
Visited Seattle for the first time. Beautiful city and geography. Good eats, good drinks, and good company.
The idea to go was suggested and agreed upon, among friends sitting in a hot tub with full beers in hand, with plenty of empty ones nearby. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say the idea would fade away in the sobering light of tomorrow.
People don’t really do what they say, especially if they said it after a few drinks. But as luck would have it, we did what we said.
Signed a lease for this car when I was Twenty-Five. Paid too much for it, but have no regrets about it. Always wanted to drive a car like that. And I did.
Returned it today, three years later, after its been to the mountains, the snow, the beaches, and the desert.
Going to try not having a car for little. I have strong legs, and a bike that needs pedaling.
I do miss those big Florida skies.
Few weeks back at Jenn and Duncan’s wedding. Was an honor to be their guest, and a night to remember. I’d like more images like this to live here. They’re more important than the things I make.
Favorite part of the day.
Souvenir from a magical night at The Magic Castle.
Hand cut silhouettes by Dave Spafford.
Not everyone can say their health insurance puts a smile on their face.
Día de los Muertos.
I don’t live by these words as much as I’d like, and I’m probably going to gravely regret that someday.
Alexis and I under the St. Johns Bridge, in Portland, Oregon. My friend Craig married his wife Chelsea here. It was beautiful. And a bit hot out. Not sure if I was sweating from the Sun or from the taxi ride over, which rivaled any attraction at any theme park I’ve ever been to.
Over the years I’ve been to a handful of weddings, but Craig’s was really the first one that involved someone I’ve known since we were practically kids. Knowing how the story started, and to see it all come together, is really something. Most people don’t get the privilege.
Congrats Craig.
I Can’t Quit You Baby by Otis Rush.
There was no “Four”
Thanks to my friend George for taking the original picture this piece is based on.
One of my best and longest standing buds, Giovanni. Came to visit Los Angeles for the first time, and it was the best time.
They make a person believe their work is done.