back from trinidad, and happy father's day

A right-handed American friend once told me that when he moved to England, learning to drive on the left-hand side of the road was, for him, like learning to kick a football with his left foot:  if necessary, he could certainly learn to do so, and even become proficient at it; however, despite his expertise, it would always feel more natural kicking the ball with his right foot.

I've always loved this analogy, and it feels like it also perfectly describes what it is like for me as an immigrant to America:  even though I've now lived in the United States for the majority of my life, and have assimilated to the point that most people who meet me often never guess that I'm from anywhere else, the truth is I'm just kicking the ball with my left foot really, really well.  For the most part I love the US, but Trinidad will always feel like home.

All this to say that my whirlwind trip back to Trinidad with Alex was wonderful -- even better than I could have hoped for, actually -- full of  reconnections with some really special people, and a few unexpected experiences.  I took tons of photographs, of course, and I can't wait to share them with you.  But for now, Alex and I are going to spend some time with Marcus, who we missed terribly.

In the meantime, however, here are a few shots of the views from my parents' place, to get you warmed up for the images to come. 

And of course, to all of you men out there who have ever loved, guided, cared for, or protected anyone else, Happy Father's Day, whether you have children or not.  May the people who love you treat you in grand style today.

More soon, sweet friends.

Images:  Photographed with my Nikon D200, 35mm lens.  First 3 images:  aperture 4.0, shutter speed 1/1000, ISO 125; Fourth image:  aperture 6.4, shutter speed 1/640, ISO 125.

Song:  Trini 2 de bone by David Rudder