Charlie is an old friend, both in the length of our relationship and his time on this planet. At 85 he is of the old salt and vinegar mold. But behind that gruff exterior he is a softie who graciously shares his tales of what the world was like before we locked ourselves indoors with video games, cell phones and computers. It was a good, if less convenient, the world. It might do us good to go back to its sensibilities one day.

Anyway, Cynthia and I try to bring him dinner at least once a week. We take simple meals that are more about sharing time together than fine dining. As soon as we are finished we head out to the porch where Charlie and I smoke our pipes, and we all enjoy an old-fashioned cup of joe made in a pot that is older than me.

That's where we were tonight - and it was a welcome respite from a hectic couple of days. As we sat in the encroaching darkness, I mentioned that many photographers pass up the blue light of early night, not realizing the beauty it can impart on an image. Cindy immediately said that I should capture the weather vane on Charlies garage as an example. I laughed, thinking it wouldn't be a great image.

Setting the camera to a long exposure, I took this shot. You know what? My Cindy has a great vision. I hope you enjoy it too.