Needles Highway

Sunset in a South Dakota highway rest stop

I'm eager to spend more time with these in Photoshop, as I think they've got potential to be great images.

The truckstop where my previously loyal car has me stranded

The car started after I took these photos, but didn't start after I pulled across the road to clean the windshield and get a cup of coffee.

It's been great for fourteen years and 158,000 miles.  I guess it'll be great again, after I can find a mechanic to find and fix whatever electrical short is preventing me from photographing the Badlands at sunrise.

Windmill in southern Minnesota

I pulled off the interstate to grab an ice cream sandwich and enjoy the side roads for a while.

Came upon a large group of windmills gracefully turning in the strong breeze. Took a few photos and videos. It's hard to appreciate the size of this one due to the angle at which I'm shooting it. But you begin to get a better idea when I turn around and you see the shadows of the large blades spinning.

Around Lake Minnetonka

Pete, John, and I walked along a trail near the cottage.  Then we enjoyed lunch at a restaurant called Lord Fletchers.  John was disappointed their "marching ducks" weren't around anymore (we were told the duck trainer left their cage unlocked, and a raccoon ate them).  

Tubing on Half Moon Lake

Half Moon Lake - Day 1

After arriving at the Minns' lake house late Friday, I slept very soundly.  Saturday began with a pleasant round of golf.  For the last eleven years, all my golf is played in Luck, Wisconsin.  We kayaked a little bit in the afternoon, and enjoyed a big feast with their friends the Misners.

CraigFest is hitting the road!

Immediately after the Hayes Carll show at PAC3 tonight, CraigFest 2011 hits the road. 

Next stop: Luck, Wisconsin and Half Moon Lake.  I may try wearing the GoPro while waterskiing.  If it doesn't sink to the bottom of the lake, I ought to get some interesting video.

Early next week I'll be in the Twin Cities.  Looking forward to seeing you there!

2011 Food & Wine Classic

Food & Wine Classic - set-up day