oldmantravels' photostream  

I'm a happily married retiree who loves the outdoors; especially - high mountains and the canyons and slickrock country of the American Southwest. My wife and I have been married over 40 years and have three great "kids".

In my working life, I was fortunate to have traveled a great deal internationally (South America, Mexico, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe, and South Africa).

Now I enjoy the time to read non-fiction books(mostly travel adventure), listen to ENYA music, sit around a small camp fire, take long hot showers, strum my guitar and sing out of tune, backpack, float a river, head for the mountains or canyons of the Southwest, with a day pack to hike trails or wander those interesting places ~ without paths.

I like to sleep in a backpacking tent and watch the stars, tie trout flies, dry fly fish (catch and release), exchange email with close friends and kin, and take frequent "road trips" to historic and scenic areas.

I have a passionate curiousity about the natural world and the history or early man. I am the quintessential: "Jack of all trades and the master of none", My interests in life are truly eclectic and I wouldn't have it any other way.

I am not a photographer, but rather a hiker and traveler, who likes to carry a camera to capture and share memories. About 99.9% of my photos are shot "hand held" using a Canon: G9; G10; or XSi. I prefer the G9 & G10 for landscape photographs and the XSi with a 70-300 mm IS USM lens, for wildlife photography. The only time I do use a small tripod is for self shots, while hiking or traveling solo. I don't photoshop my photographs.

Life is good (and precious)! I do my best to enjoy each and every minute I am alloted. I want to hike and travel as long as I'm able to do so.

I'm lucky to enjoy good health and have a wonderful wife, who accompanies me on most my hikes, travels, and backpacking trips...but is understanding and thoughtful enough, to tell me "go have fun" on those trips she can't or prefers not to make. LIfe is good!

Note: I am award averse. I don't post photos or join photo groups that require: "post one - award one" "post one - comment on five" etc. I understand the concept but it just isn't for me. I also regularly delete comments made to my photos that have a group icon the size of my computer screen and looks suspiciously like an advertisement for the photo group - - instead of sincere, simple feedback or a comment on my photo. Same with folks who say "nice photo" and then attach their photos or a link to their photostream with the comment.

My apologies in advance to all of you who may fit my aversion list..

Oldmantravels
Eastern Washington, U.S.A.