running

Neighborhood Basketball by Londen Wheeler

On my way home, I pass this park every day but for some reason I told myself to look over towards the basketball court today.  So I looked over and saw a bunch of guys playing basketball...at 2:30...in this heat... So kudos to them for being out there and not passing out like I would've done.  But the guys were all very welcoming and cool to be around.  Some of them asked me if I was shooting for someone big which was a big "no" from me.  I explained that I did a lot of sports photography in my college days and that I needed to get some extra practice for what I have planned for this week.  I definitely need to get my eyes back into the swing of catching action so this was the next best thing for some extra practice.  Also, it's been four months since I last shot with my 1D Mark III so I had to dust that bad boy off and get some shots with it.

Some of the guys actually enjoy going to Downtown Dallas and doing shoots so I can't wait to link up with them and head down to Dallas for some street photography.  These are the moments that I live for.  Making these connections and getting to know people that I wouldn't normally make an effort to reach out to.  After being at work since 5:30 in the morning, that's the last thing I want to do is interact with people but today was different.  Maybe next time I see the fellas out there playing ball, I may just join them.  Don't know how well that would turn out since my soccer and track running skills don't cross over to basketball very well. *inserts wide eye emoji*

I would write more but I'm feeling a nap coming on! 

Also, can y'all believe we're halfway through the month of May? I swear it was just April last week!!  Where is the time going?!  Another thing, guys!  I'm interested in know what you all listen to on a daily basis!  If you have a Spotify account, feel free to send me a playlist or two or comment your favorite songs below.  I've been listening to a lot of Spanish music lately so I'm sharing one of my playlists with you guys!

#BrittenStrong by Londen Wheeler

On February 27, 2017, my coach, my best friend, my brother was hit and severely injured by an erratic driver.  This accident has left him paralyzed from the chest down and may never walk again.  Hearing about the news of the accident was not easy to digest but with many prayers and positive thoughts, I know healing is declared in Jesus' name.

I remember the first time we met back in 2012 at my district track meet at Nelson County High School in Virginia.  He walked up to me as cool as a cucumber and dapped me up like he had known me for years.  From that moment, it was like everything else fell into place.  I could feel God living through him, I could feel that genuine spirit, I could feel the friendship that was about to transpire.  Coach O was without a doubt a light for me and everyone he came in contact with.

Again, words can't describe how thankful I am for Coach O and there isn't enough time in the day to tell you all of our crazy stories.  I know that I don't have much to give but I hope to use my photography web site and resources that I have to make sure Coach receives all of the support he needs as he begins his journey.

If you have Facebook, I encourage you to take a few seconds to head over and like his support page (see links below).  There, you can view updates on his progress, read stories about how he has touched people's lives, and see countless photos!  If you have some cash to spare, please consider donating to help Coach and his family as well.

Please continue to pray and send positive thoughts to the Olinger family!  We're in this together.  #FaithFocusFinish #BrittenStrong