Robert Horan Photography

Monday January 23, 2012

2012-01-21T12:48:00.004-05:00

Hello My Friends,

Good Morning. Today the spring semester starts at NECC. I am back to school and working at the gym again, a couple of days a week. Expect more NECC Men's Basketball photos in the near future, they have a home game this coming Saturday. I may make a new page just for sports, it doesn't really go with my format here. I will continue to post pictures of the great outdoors because that is and has been my primary subject for the last few years. I am glad and excited to be back at the college. I am taking advanced b+w film photography. I really enjoy the college environment, the kids bring a lot of energy that is contagious. Being here really focuses my attention on creating things. I also have two great professors and one that I have not met yet. Wish me luck. I am a little nervous today, but I am not as bad as the day my mom dropped me off at kindergarten. I cried and cried all day. Talk to you all soon. Remember to take care and take pictures. Bye for now.

Bob

Full Wolf Moon

2012-01-07T13:26:00.001-05:00

Hello My Friends,

I am continuing with the monthly full moon photo. This month's full moon is called the Wolf moon. I believe that it was called that because the wolves (or coyotes where I live) come out and howl. Of course they do that a lot of nights, so I am not really sure. The moon is rising early now, so I should have a new photo shortly, around 3pm EST or so. I will also be out after dark, too. It is certainly a good night for it with the unseasonal weather we have had so far this winter here in the Merrimack valley. I am heading out soon. I'll be back in a bit. Take care and take photos.

Bob

PS Cloudy skies prevented any pics yesterday. I will be out this afternoon and evening (Sunday) for another try. check back later.

Happy New Year !

2011-12-31T16:08:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Thank you all for following my photography blog. I appreciate your interest and support. I will continue to post my photos and musings in the coming year. I hope that you enjoy them. May you all have a happy, healthy, peaceful and prosperous New Year.

Bob

Merry Christmas Everybody!

2011-12-25T12:02:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

No matter what your beliefs or non-beliefs, I wish everyone the joy of the season. I hope that you are able to enjoy this day with friends and family. Peace be with you all.

Bob

Happy Christmas, Hannukah , Kwanzaa, and any other Solstice related event I don't know about.

2011-12-01T13:51:00.000-05:00

Happy December to all of my Friends and Followers.

Thank you for joining me again. As always, a small observation about my life and experiences taking pictures. Also my successes and (many) failures. I have concentrated on the beauty of our natural world for the last few years, but I photograph many other subjects as well. At this holiday time I am very grateful today for all the good things in my life. I have been blessed with good health, a lovely relationship and reasonable employment. I have much to be thankful for, but for some reason this month I need to vent. I believe that many of us are losing touch with the great outdoors and that is sad. I think people are becoming less social. I have noticed more and more of the strange behavior of young and old alike staring at and interacting with tiny screens, ignoring those that surround them. Less and less do I see people walking, ice skating or tubing on the big hill in town. A sleigh ride? What is that? The things we did outdoors when I was a child have been replaced by cell phones, video games, expensive chain store parties and an insatiable appetite for consuming electronics. How did anyone get along without a smart phone? I know that this is not entirely true, because many people do maintain an outdoor connection. Of course, others are in the gym this time of year. What is really bugging me is that I see so much more obesity every day, much more uncivilized behavior, more tailgating, more foul language and less respect for others. As the pace of technology seems to move faster and faster, people are becoming less social, not more. Social networks are an oxymoron. Personally, I have found it necessary to hit the power button, leave the phone, get the dog and walk in the woods. Every day. It is good for me, my girl, the dog, everybody. I interact personally with others that are regulars in the forest we trek. We don't look at tiny little screens. We look each other in the eyes and make a true connection. We don 't miss the beauty of all that is around us. We take pictures. Of the dog, each other, of great sunsets, and great snow storms, beaver lodges bigger than cars. This is good for us. I am lobbying any of you feeling the stress of the season to get outside as much as you can, especially during the day light hours. (Vitamin D) Bring the kids, ask your neighbor, really meet with friends. Without some electronic device.You just might meet someone new, or see something that you have never seen before. Breathe in the fresh air and think about what a magnificent creation our bodies are. Get out in the woods. I know it is something I have to do. Maybe it could benefit you, too.

Peace to All this Holiday Season
Bob

Holy Cow It is November

2011-11-01T18:33:00.000-04:00

Hello my Friends,

Thank you for checking out my blog again this month. I can not believe that is November already. It is only six and it is dark outside. We have not even turned the clocks back yet. So, we have a limited time to shoot outside without flash. I am going to try and get up earlier than usual this month and see what I can do in the morning and before all the leaves have fallen and the snow flies (again). I think that the angle of the sun's light can make for some interesting and stark photographs as well. Not at all like summer, or winter when there is a lot of snow ans sunshine. I will start posting my new pictures tomorrow. Also, please enter my new contest for November, details are at right. Take care and take pictures.

Bob

Back to School

2011-08-28T17:38:00.000-04:00

Hello my friends,

It is nearly September, and I will be back at Northern Essex Community College full time on the seventh. I really love going to college. For those that knew me in high school, that may be hard to believe. I was not a motivated student. Funny how that is. I certainly had no idea what I wanted do or where I wanted to go. Life happened and took me along with it. Today I have a full rewarding life that I share with lots of sincere, motivated, intelligent and highly creative people. Getting back to the college is very inspiring. I never thought of myself as a creative person, certainly not an artist, but I did play guitar, violin, mandolin and piano. Even if I didn't play as well as I would have liked. I always liked to write, but I never thought that I would win a writing award. Being at the college has given me the courage and confidence to try, and the support to succeed. My focus has always been all over the place. There are so many neat, fun, creative things to do. I want to try them all. Now, I have decided to concentrate on the visual: photography, video production and documentary film making. I can not wait for the school year to begin!

Bob

Brand New Day

2011-07-15T14:50:00.001-04:00

Welcome to all of my friends, followers and those who may stumble upon this blog site. This is a really great day for me. After much deliberation, I have finally decided to go to Fitchburg State University in the fall of 2013. I hope to study both photography and film and video production. I am extremely excited and very happy to have made my decision at this time. I plan on moving forward with the process as soon as possible with the help of Kristen Arnold @ NECC. That's all for now. Keep in touch and peace to you all.
Remember, Take care and take pictures. Bob

June 15, 2011

2011-06-15T14:44:00.000-04:00

Hello My Friends, Welcome back. As you can see I have changed my home page. This reflects a recent invitation that I received from Tonya Allen and her friend Nathan. It was an invitation to go hiking with a large group of friends on Saturday July 9th 2011. I may or may not be able to make it. I generally work on Saturdays and Sundays. I really enjoy getting out in the woods and hiking in NH especially. So I posted a few different photos of my last trip up Lafayette. I hope you like them. Bob

Monday May 8, 2011

2011-05-09T13:17:00.000-04:00

Hello My Friends,

Finally here in Haverhill, MA the landscape looks like spring. The flowers and trees are blooming, the grass is green and the leaves have popped. This is a fantastic time to take pictures here in New England. This month's contest is your best spring photo taken this year. The contest will run until midnight May 31, 2011. As always I am the sole judge and my decision will be final. The prize this month will be a framed seascape that I took last summer. Send 1 (one) photo to my contact address at right. Have fun, I look forward to showing the winning photograph on my blog for the month of June. I'll see you all again here next Monday. Take care and take pictures.

Bob

Monday Sure Feels Fine

2011-04-11T17:44:00.000-04:00

Hello My Friends and Welcome to my photography blog. Things are certainly heating up here in New England. Today was the nicest day of the year. Everyone is outside walking, riding bikes and in many cases taking great photos. I know it is early, but the crocuses and snow drops are blooming and the tulips and forsythias are about to pop as well. I took a walk around Kenoza Lake not expecting much, but I was pleasantly surprised, which is why I carry my camera with me so often. Take a look. I am including a few photos that I probably shouldn't post since they didn't come out that well as I didn't have a tripod with me. Please continue to send in your photos for this month's contest. I will see you again next Monday. Take care and take pictures. Bye for now, Bob

Hello Spring, Goodbye Winter

2011-04-04T20:29:00.000-04:00

Hello My Friends, What a long strange winter it has been, and by strange I mean nasty. How many times did you look for jobs or real estate in other states (or countries) over the past five months? I will only speak for myself, but that was the worst winter in memory. I am happy to say that thing are looking up. The snow is finally gone. Tomorrow is going to be in the high fifties, and I am feelin' good. Let the blogs begin. I have updated the photos. I always want to hear your feedback. I also will have a contest every couple of weeks to post the best photos from my readers. So, get out your cameras and get out of doors and get snapping. I am really looking forward to the spring and summer. Keep in touch, Bob

February 8, 2011

2011-02-08T13:14:00.000-05:00

To my dear friends and anyone who may stumble across my photo blog, Here are some pictures of what this winter has been like in the North East. If you would like to have a reminder of our other wonderful seasons, please link to my other three pages. It doesn't look as if it is going to snow again for a little while, but you never know. If you would like to send in your pictures of The Winter of "11, I would love to put them up on my site to share. Hang in there, Spring is right around the corner.
Bob

Fall October 8, 2010

2010-10-08T18:22:00.001-04:00

Dear Friends, I have been out of the loop for a while. After I finished summer school, I needed a break to recharge the batteries. After three weeks of going to the beach and riding my bike it was time to get back to work. I am doing television broadcasting with Haverhill community access now, as well as photography. If anyone is interested in that go to http://www.theseacoastmusicseries.blogspot.com I am a little bit slow getting the show going. I have taped one episode and have not finished editing. I am just learning Final Cut, and it is much more complicated than I had anticipated. Anyway, look for lots of new photos for the next few week. I am shooting the Methuen High/Haverhill football game tonight. Hope everyone had a great summer. Bye for now, Bob

Happy August

2010-08-07T15:53:00.000-04:00

Full Disclosure

2010-08-02T10:55:00.000-04:00

Hello my friends, I would like to come clean regarding my Cycle for Shelter 2010 experience. I have to admit that I was a little embarrassed to put up this post. Being the "official" Training Rides blogger and all. I trained hard with the other riders, put in my time at the gym and in the seat out on the roads. But it was not meant to be. Everything started out well. I took photos of my group as we left for the 62 mile fundraising ride and pulled in behind the last riders, quickly making friends with Michelle from Florida. We settled into a small group of five riders and established a good steady pace heading up the Merrimack. What a perfect day for cycling. After about 45 minutes we were 10 miles in and coming up to Amesbury when I got a flat. Here, I have to say that I rode for 4 months without a flat tire , or any other difficulties at all, not one, nil, zip, zero. OK now here is the good part. Two gentlemen, Chris and Kevin come zooming up to me on motorcycles. Ride support. This is good, I thought. Five minutes later I'm on my merry way and soon catch up to the other cyclists.Two miles later, boom. Another flat. Guys on Bikes. Merry way. 10 miles later. Flat, guys on bikes merry way Hampton beach catch up again rest area at the Beach Plum, N Hampton State Beach. Here are my sister Betsy and her husband Ron. Also their four pugs, all is well. We take pictures and hug. I am not going to give up on this ride. The volunteers close up the rest stop, Off we go again. North Hampton to Stratham and up through Exeter and down Drinkwater Rd to Kensington. Guess what happened next? 35 miles into the ride and two miles from the Kensington rest stop I get my fourth flat tire. That's it. I finally call it quits. The heat, the humidity , the flats, I put my bike up on the rack of the meat wagon. They have been following me for 35 miles, John and Tina, nice couple. I get in and give up. I did not complete the ride. There, I said it. I am glad to get that off my chest. I know it doesn't matter one way or another, but it was important to me, and I didn't finish. Phil D. wants half his donation back. That was funny. He gave me a laugh when I didn't feel like laughing. Thanks Phil. I would like to thank all the wonderful people who supported me on this little journey. Either in training, or their generous donations to the Emmaus House Shelter and their low income housing programs. Please accept my personal thanks to those who helped me achieve my goal of $500 in donations: Libby J., Lissa A., Margo and Phil D., Kathy and Tom S., Laurie D., Ron and Betsy T., Ann G., Jane T., Cherie H., Marie B., Rob P., Meg and Tony M., Linda D., and Chris D., Bless you all. As for now I am not going to ride the bike for a while. We'll have to see how I feel in the next few weeks. Right now I think I will go to the beach or do a little hiking up north. What do you think? Love you all, Bob

Cycle for Shelter 2010

2010-07-23T17:58:00.000-04:00

Hello My Friends! Welcome to the next to the last column in my ongoing challenge of completing the Emmaus House Cycle for Shelter this Sunday July 25th 2010, The 22nd Anniversary of C4S. For those of you that have been following, you know how much time and effort that I have put in over the last four months. From that first cold 10 miler with five other brave souls this past April to the 66 mile route that I traveled three weeks ago, along with every ride in between, it has been quite an experience. To date, I have received over $400 dollars from generous donors. I have meet some truly kind and compassionate souls who would rather take action and do something to help the homeless and low income in the Merrimack Valley, than to sit idly by and bemoan the situation while doing nothing. I have been blessed to get to know them. I would like to thank all of the riders for their tips and encouragement, especially Jeff Russell, the Emmaus Training Rides Coordinator. I would not have been able to do this without his help. I would urge anyone who has thought about doing the C4S to take the challenge. This is a tremendous local charity. There is help and guidance for you every step of the way. I am proud to be a small part of this group. The forecast for Sunday does not look very promising at the moment. The reports that I have seen are calling for very hot, humid conditions, along with the thunderstorms that go with it. I am praying for a cold front. Finally, there is still time to donate if you are interested. Check the links in the column to your right for more information about Emmaus, and click on the Firstgiving link to donate. Thanks for following my little journey. I will report back Sunday night with some final thoughts and lots of pics. Take care and ride safely, Bob

The Real Nitty Gritty

2010-07-07T17:40:00.000-04:00

Hello my friends and Welcome to all, The Emmaus Cycle for Shelter looms large on the horizon. I have been putting in more than 100 miles per week to prepare these last few weeks. I am on a mission. I know that is much less than the 100 milers are doing right now(I am riding 62 miles), but three short months ago I started from scratch. Three weeks from Sunday nearly 300 riders will take off from Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill (MA) to raise money for the homeless and low income residents of the Merrimack Valley. The organization is still accepting riders, if you are interested. Please donate or volunteer if you can. Click on the links at the right for more information or to donate. Thanks to everyone for your contributions and your support. Until next time, Have fun and ride safe. Bob

Get your kicks riding Rt. 66?

2010-06-27T11:34:00.001-04:00

Hello to all my friends, followers and fellow riders. Yesterday I rode my bike 66 miles, the Emmaus C4S 62-mile course (which I am riding, plus the two miles each way back and forth to my apartment). Along with Jeff, we had a group of nine riders for the training ride. Mark, Steve, Donna, Bud, Hugh, Kem, David, Brendan, and myself cycled up to North Hampton and back to Haverhill the long way. The really long way. I was considering riding the 100-mile route until yesterday, now I am re-thinking my decision to ride the 62-miler. OK, I am in pain and I am lame from yesterday's ride. I cramped up badly after I got home and my body, clothes and apartment smell of Ben-Gay. I was one hurting unit after the ride. I told Kem and David that I will probably never ride my bike again after July 25th's fundraiser. Now, that may or may not be the case, but you get my drift. You know how you do things that are fun, you like it and it is enjoyable. You want to continue to do those things. Yesterday was not one of those days. I think I am reasonably fit. I might be carrying a few extra pounds, but so what. Who isn't? Hmmm, let me see. Oh, I know, All OF THE OTHER CYCLISTS! So, onward I go.

Next week I will be dropping out of the training rides that the 100-milers are doing. I mean, really, they are going 71 miles next week and up to 85 miles before the event. I do not think that I am physically capable of doing that, at least not in the next 4 weeks. So, I will be going out early on Sunday mornings. For those who are interested, I plan to leave from the college at 7:00 AM. Please email me at roberthoranphotography@gmail.com and we could make a plan. I would like to ride a little more leisurely than the better cyclists, we can cover any of the routes up to 62 miles (you know I am going to do it). I have ridden the 20, the 50 and of course the insidious 62-miler. So, we won't get lost. I am going to be in Keene over the Fourth of July weekend, so the next time I will be going out on a long ride will be July 11th, just two weeks before this year's C4S. Yikes! Keep riding, I will. See you all on July 25th, 2010. Bob

The Metric Century

2010-06-25T07:51:00.005-04:00

Welcome to all my followers, friends and fellow Cycle for Shelter riders. Thank you for visiting. We are fast approaching July 25th. I have to tell everyone that I bailed on last week's training ride. I chickened out because of the warm weather. Well, that and the 51 miles I was going to have to ride.

This week, Saturday, June 26th, Jeff is taking us on the Emmaus C4S 62-mile course. The route starts and finishes at Northern Essex Community College and travels up the Merrimack through Amesbury and Salisbury to 1A and up the coast to North Hampton. We then turn back on Rt. 111 to Exeter, Kensington, South Hampton and back home to NECC. You can view the map at www.emmausinc.org/cycle.htm. Come and join us. Please leave your comments and your own stories about the C4S and why you ride. I enjoy reading them, and so do many others. See you all Saturday. Bob

42 miles and climbing fast

2010-06-14T06:56:00.005-04:00

Hello my friends, followers, and fellow riders, and until the end of July, Welcome to the Emmaus House Cycle for Shelter training rides blog. Welcome also to Bud, Greg, Carla and David who joined us for the first time this week as we prepare for the C4S, on July 25, 2010. Jeff led a strong group of 12 out on a course that covered Plaistow, Atkinson, Kingston, Danville and Hampstead. We skirted four ponds including a close up of the beautiful Pow Wow pond in Danville, returning through the Crystal Gorge conservation area in Haverhill. The weather was gray and cool, and we did get drizzled on a bit, but it was very comfortable for me. I am now in uncharted waters. Saturday's ride was the longest bike ride I have ever done. I must say that I was starting to feel like a cyclist, that is until Sunday morning. I estimate that I rode about 45 miles, I rode up and back from my apartment to our meeting place at the high school. This coming Saturday, June 19, Jeff is leading a ride of 50 miles. Come and find out if I can keep up with the pack. We are meeting at Northern Essex Community College, and heading out at 8am. Jeff is also starting another group ride on Saturday afternoons for those who are riding the shorter distances, check the Emmaus website for more details click here for rides and routes http://www.emmausinc.org/Kick%20offevent.htm So long for now, Keep pedaling and take care until we meet again, Bob

Wow!

2010-05-29T17:04:00.000-04:00

Welcome Ladies and Gentlemen, Hello to all. What a day. First, today was the biggest turnout of the year, 14 riders, and what a beautiful day for cycling. For those of you who have been following my trials and tribulations as a beginning cyclist, I have to tell you, everyone who can, should give it a try. (I am starting to sound like Jeff) He led us on another lovely route off the beaten track that was absolutely glorious. From our starting point in East Haverhill to Plum Island and back, the ride was superb. If you know the right routes to travel, cycling is a blast. I have seen more things and traveled to more places right here in the North Shore/Merrimack valley these last two months, than I did in my first year living in Haverhill. The group ride makes a huge difference as well. The group support is tremendous. As always, we have the smartest, most interesting and best looking riders on the road anywhere. So, come join the fun. Get fit. Catch up with old friends and make some new ones. Next week the ride will begin at NECC again. Please note the earlier start time, 8:00 am Saturday June 5, 2010. Jeff has scheduled a 36 mile loop. Thanks for reading, riding and your support of the homeless and low income in the region. Continue to make a difference. See you all Saturday. Take care, Bob

Saturday's Ride May 29, 2010

2010-05-26T16:25:00.000-04:00

Hello my friends, followers and fellow Emmaus C4S riders, Welcome! OK now, The warm weather is here, and there are some really important things to remember out on the road. First things first; this weeks ride leaves at 9am from the "Riverside" Building 19 location in Haverhill(Next to Demoulas/MB by the Groveland bridge). Second, as the weather gets hotter and the rides grow longer, we need to carry more food and water, sunscreen, etc. I am new to long distance cycling, and I want to make this experience as enjoyable as I can. Be prepared out there. Thirdly, next week the time will be moved up to 8am. I believe we are rolling from NECC again but, to be sure, check your email and this blog for updates and more details. Lastly, come join us! I have met a large number of extremely smart, funny, talented and good-looking riders by joining this group. I have also learned a great deal about cycling. See some old friends,or make some new ones. Get fit and get ready to ride. See you all Saturday, Take care, Bob

Saturday's Training Ride

2010-05-20T11:24:00.000-04:00

Hello to all, Welcome back to the Emmaus House Cycle for Shelter training rides blog. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge last week's riders; Thanks to David, Lin, Donna, Rob, Jeff and myself. This week Jeff will be pushing the mileage up to 30 miles for all of you who dare to ride with us. The weather looks to be perfect for Saturday morning. We will be leaving from the Northern Essex CC, Haverhill campus at 9:00 am. Come join us. Joining the training ride with us will make your experience July 25 a much more enjoyable one. Meet new friends, get fit and have fun. I hope to see many more of you in the coming weeks. How about this for a jolt, this years ride is only two months from Sunday. See you Saturday, Bob

Can you ride 25 miles ?

2010-05-13T13:05:00.000-04:00

Hola everyone, How do you like that title? I for one have not ridden 25 miles at one time in about 15 years. I did go out the week before last with Jeff, I think we went about 19 miles. This week, I challenge all my friends, followers and Emmaus riders to join us this Saturday at 9:00 am in the back parking lot of Northern Essex Community College for a 25 mile ride. Who is up for it? Do I have any takers? I will be waiting, bright eyed and bushy-tailed for you. Let's have the biggest group ride of the year. This Saturday May 15, 2010. Let's have some fun. See you all then, Bob

Cycle for Shelter Training

2010-05-03T13:19:00.006-04:00

Hello my friends, Saturday was another glorious day to take a ride with friends. Jeff took us to Byfield and back, on another wonderful route, of about 19 miles. We traveled up the Merrimack and crossed over the Rocks Village Bridge into West Newbury, turned left at the Fire Station and then a quick right that led us to Byfield (almost to Rt. 95). The scenery is spectacular. He called it "The Weekend Warrior" route. It is similar to the Emmaus CFS 20-mile course. Jeff creates the most scenic rides, this time around lots of small ponds and streams. Then, we continued South and West through Georgetown, Groveland and back across the river to Haverhill.

We had some new faces mixed in with some of our regulars. I have made some new friends and learned a lot about cycling, too. Please come and join us this Saturday, May 8th, at 9:00 a.m. for the scheduled 21-miler. We meet this week in the "Riverside" Building 19 parking lot. For the route, click Get in shape, make new friends and make your ride on July 25th much more pleasant and enjoyable. See you on Saturday, Bob

Saturday's Ride April 24, 2010

2010-04-25T11:10:00.009-04:00

Hello my Friends,

What a glorious spring day for a group bike ride. Saturday, 4/24, we had a much larger group of riders than usual, and many new faces. Emmaus Training Team Coordinator Jeff Russell led a spirited group of cyclists on a 15-mile loop through Haverhill, Merrimac, Newton, NH and back to the Northern Essex Community College Haverhill campus. He has created some of the most scenic rides in the area that I have ever been on. Although we do have to travel on some main thoroughfares, most of the ride is off the beaten track. I have seen more beautiful and interesting things in these last few weeks than I have since moving here to Haverhill last June. There are a lot of open spaces: animal and vegetable farms, old cemeteries, pastures, and incredible river views all around us. The trees, bushes and flowers are all blooming. Just another great ride.

Remember, next Saturday, May 1st, we go out at 9:00 am for the first 20-mile ride. We still meet at the Haverhill campus of NECC in the back of the C building parking lot, on the back entrance road. Come join our growing group of riders. It is a lot of fun and a chance to make some new friends. You can make your ride July 25th so much more enjoyable by taking part in the training rides.

See you next week,
Bob

Emmaus Training Ride "Cycle for Shelter"

2010-04-17T18:13:00.000-04:00

Hello my Friends, Three brave men rode off into the misting rain this morning to ride in the second Cycle for Shelter training ride. As we made our way down the home stretch,Training coordinator Jeff Russell said,"Three frozen popsicles returned." OK, maybe it was not the best idea to ride this morning. The radar weather map indicated a break from the rain, we almost made it. The temps were just above 40. I made a commitment to ride 62 miles on July 25th. I am not a cyclist, per se. I need to train for this event. I wanted Jeff to show up, and I was hoping that he would not. He did, and so did Rob from Andover. We did the 12 mile route up to Merrimac and over the river through West Newbury to Groveland and back across the river again to Haverhill on Rt. 113. It was not too bad, but I can tell you, the ride home ( in the car ) was a little uncomfortable until the heat kicked in. I was cold, wet and tired. I am sorry that I did not take any pictures this week, but Rob and I are going out again on Monday, the 19th, Patriots Day. Join us at 10am at NECC for a 12 or 15 miler. Check back on Tuesday, I will post some new photos on Monday night. Remember, your experience this summer will be much more enjoyable if you train properly for this event. Next Saturday we embark on a 14 mile trip with Jeff. Come join us. These rides are a lot of fun, no matter what I say right after the rides. I hope to see you all at NECC next week, 10 a.m. at the back of the C lot right by the maintenance garage. Bye for now, Bob

Cycle for Shelter

2010-04-10T21:33:00.002-04:00

Hello My Friends, The first outdoor training ride for the Emmaus House "Cycle for Shelter" went off without a hitch this morning.The group met at Northern Essex Community College at 10 am, and after a brief photo session with Emmaus' Fundraising Director Rachel Thompson, rode off into a brisk April wind. Led by Training Coordinator Jeff Russell, a hardy band of riders did an easy 10 mile route up toward Amesbury and back down along the Merrimack River to NECC. Most of us were riding outside for the first time, except Jeff. We also rode past a llama farm, that had horses, goats and bison, too. All in all, I would rate the first ride of the season a tremendous success. We ride again next Saturday, April 17 at 10 am from the college. We meet at the back of the C- lot right near the maintenance building. Next week Jeff is pushing the mileage up to 12 miles, but we train at a nice moderate pace. Please join us. The ride is great fun. Get ready now to make your ride easier and more enjoyable. For more information about Emmaus and the Cycle for Shelter, click the Emmaus link, and to donate to my fund-raising page, please click the First Giving link in the column below right. I hope to see you next Saturday. Remember, July 25 is only 3 months away! Bye for now. Bob

Friday April 9, 2010

2010-04-09T10:57:00.000-04:00

Hello my Friends, I would like to remind everyone that outdoor training for the "Cycle for Shelter" begins tomorrow morning at 10. We meet at Northern Essex CC and go for an easy ten mile ride, I' m sure others will ride much more (not me). Come and join me if you are interested in biking, or if you would just like to go for a ride. Also, NECC has a baseball game on campus at noon and I will be sticking around for that. Enjoy today. Take lots of pictures and take care of yourselves. Bye for now, Bob

Thursday April 8, 2010

2010-04-08T17:27:00.000-04:00

Hello My Friends, Spring has arrived in the great northeast. The trees are budding, the flowers are blooming and the weather is getting better. There is no better time than this to get outside and take some pictures. I just put up some new ones today. I would really like to have a Friends Page that contains some of your great pictures. Send 'em in and I will put them up for all the world to see.Tell all your friends. Take care of yourselves and Peace to All- Bob

Tuesday March 30th 2010

2010-03-30T12:33:00.000-04:00

Hello My Friends, Welcome to my photo blog. I have something important to say right this moment. I wish you all Peace and Prosperity. Take advantage of this day and make the most of it. Do something special for yourself or someone else. Do not go through the motions. Be kind to a friend, or to a stranger. Live in today! Tell someone you love that you love them. Do not miss out on this wonderful opportunity. Bye for now. Take care of yourselves, Bob

Happy Monday

2010-03-29T13:25:00.000-04:00

Welcome to all . I will be staring a new tack moving ahead this week. The Northern Essex Community College Men's Baseball team has returned from its southern trip and will play their first home games this week. I am really looking forward to it. I should have new pix this week weather permitting. I also have an appointment to speak with a photographer from the Lawrence Eagle-Tribune next week about career opportunities in News and Sports photography. Aside from the weather, things could not be any better right now. Remember to take lots of pix and email me your best photos for my new "Friends" page. Talk to you all soon. Bob

March 26, 2010

2010-03-26T08:49:00.000-04:00

Hello My Friends, March is going out like a Lion here in Haverhill, MA. USA. We have had some wild weather over the last month or so. Again this spring, it has been very windy and rainy. We also have had some unseasonably warm temperatures this month. Today it is snowing sideways. Is this what the scientists have been predicting about climate change? I think that it could be a direct result of humankind's affect on the planet. As a whole, we do not take care of our planet very well. I do try to limit my footprint on Earth as best I can, and the photography that I do is a reminder to me that what we have is very precious. I wish you all Peace and Prosperity in all your affairs. Thank You for visiting, Bob

Wednesday March 24, 2010

2010-03-23T18:28:00.000-04:00

Happy Spring! Thank you for visiting. Enjoy all three pages of photos, the links are on the right.. I wanted to give everyone an update on the "Cycle for Shelter" event which is taking place on July 25, 2010. We plan to start training outdoors this coming weekend. The rides will start at Northern Essex CC at 9am Sunday. The first one is a warm up ten miler, each week we will increase the mileage. If you are interested in joining me please email and I will share all the details. As always, Thank you so much for everything, and keep making a difference in the communities that you live in. Bob

Happy Spring!

2010-03-19T11:06:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my photography blog. Thank you all for visiting. I don't know what the weather is like where you are, but here in Haverhill, Massachusetts it is an absolutely glorious spring day. Get outside and take some pictures.Today, I am starting a "Friends" page for all of you who are interested in sharing your photos here. Please email your best pictures and I will put them up for the world to see. I am looking forward to seeing all your fantastic photographs. I will post some new ones over the weekend. Look for some Northern Essex CC Baseball pix starting early next month. Enjoy the weather and have a great day. Bob

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-16T16:17:00.000-04:00

Hello my Friends,
Does anyone remember the Happy Soldiers? They used to play around Manchester and Hampton in the late eighties at the Irish pubs, like Kristopher's, the Wild Rover and O'Donnells. Those were some fun times. Anyway, I am having a contest. For anyone who loves to take photos. Send me a copy of one of your favorites and I will post them on a "Friends" page. Take lots of pictures, I am really looking forward to it. As always, try to make this world a little bit better today. I will, too.
Take Care, Bob

March 15, 2010

2010-03-15T15:32:00.000-04:00

Welcome to All. Thank you for visiting, I hope you enjoy the photos. It is wet here in Haverhill,MA. Rain, rain, more rain and very high winds, upwards of 45 mph last night and Saturday. I hope all of you are safe and dry. Take care, Bob

Friday March 12, 2010

2010-03-12T08:40:00.001-05:00

Hello My Friends,

Thank you for visiting. I try to make this site as enjoyable as I can to anyone who might happen to find it, as well as for all of my friends and family. Please check out the "Photo of the Week' and cast your vote. The Page 2 link is the Waterfall Series from last summer in Franconia NH. Page 3 is some big surf at Seabrook this past Saturday. Click the page links at right. Finally, in the spirit of Web 2.0, I am continuing to raise funds here in Haverhill MA for the Emmaus House "Cycle for Shelter", the details are below right. If you would like to contribute globally, click on the link below for more information. Let's continue to make a difference every day.

Bob

March 10, 2010

2010-03-10T14:18:00.000-05:00

Hello My Friends,

           Thank you for visiting. I try to make this site as enjoyable as I can to anyone who might happen to find it, as well as for all of my friends and family. Please check out the "Photo of the Week' and cast your vote. The Page 2 link is the Waterfall Series from last summer in Franconia NH. Page 3 is some big surf at Seabrook on Saturday and pictures from Gunstock Mountain on Sunday. Click the page links at right. Finally, in the spirit of Web 2.0, I am continuing to raise funds here in Haverhill MA for the Emmaus House "Cycle for Shelter" the details are below right, if you would like to help globally click on the link below for more information. Let's continue to make a difference every day.
                                                                                                                                                     Bob

March 10, 2010

2010-03-01T13:38:00.009-05:00

Hello My Friends,

           Thank you for visiting. I try to make this site as enjoyable as I can to anyone who might happen to find it, as well as for all of my friends and family. Please check out the "Photo of the Week' and cast your vote. The Page 2 link is the Waterfall Series from last summer in Franconia NH. Page 3 is some big surf at Seabrook on Saturday and pictures from Gunstock Mountain on Sunday. Click the page links at right. Finally, in the spirit of Web 2.0, I am continuing to raise funds here in Haverhill MA for the Emmaus House "Cycle for Shelter" the details are below right, if you would like to help globally click on the link below for more information. Let's continue to make a difference every day.
                                                                                                                                                     Bob

Saturday February 27, 2010

2010-02-27T10:55:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends, This has been a crazy week of weather here (Haverhill MA). Heavy rains, strong winds, sleet, hail, and snow, causing lots of damage and power outages. I hope everyone is OK. I do know some of you suffered terrible property damages, and my thoughts and prayers are with you. Keep in touch. Bob

Thursday February 25, 2010

2010-02-25T07:07:00.001-05:00

Hello my friends, Thank you for visiting. I hope you enjoy this site. Today is very foggy and gloomy here in Haverhill MA. I am going to make the best of it. The fog can make some very interesting photographs. Keep writing, either on site or by email. I appreciate all of your comment and suggestions. Check out the new photo of the week. Last week's photo was a keeper and will soon be on sale, thank you for voting. Have a great day. Bob

Wednesday February 24, 2010

2010-02-24T08:51:00.001-05:00

Good morning my friends, The rain is really coming down in buckets this morning here in Haverhill (MA). It is much better than snow. I am looking forward to Ft. Lauderdale later next month. I have not been there since 1978. The kids have all moved on to other Caribbean hot spots, it is safe to go back now. Until then, I am going up to Gunstock ski area Sunday March 7th to take pics. Except for Wildcat, I think it has some of the best views, if not the best skiing. Maybe I will see some of you up there. Don't forget to vote on the "Photo of the Week" the one with the best response will be on sale next month, and click on Page 2 in the links section to see my new Waterfall Series. Take care, Bob

Tuesday February 23, 2010

2010-02-23T12:12:00.001-05:00

Hello my friends, Today is gloomy winter day, but not bad for February. Don't forget to go outside and breath. Take a walk or hit the gym. Move and groove. Work on a project that is amazing. Today is a a great day. Enjoy it. ( Just a little motivation )Scroll down to see more new pics. I took the bird photos this weekend. If you want to know how I got them, I put birdseed out on the railing on the back steps. The birds were only about 3 feet away through the window in the back door. Thank Birds and Blooms magazine for the tip. They also have a mean suet recipe, if you like birds, not for you to eat! Bob

Sunday February 21, 2010

2010-02-21T17:12:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends, I posted some new photos today. I hope you enjoy them. Please check out the photo of the week, and leave your comments about the site. If you want to stay current with all my photos and shows, add yourself as a follower. I will be at the Haverhill Farmers Market at G.A.R. Park again this spring selling prints and Framed and Matted prints every Saturday morning.It can't come fast enough. Remember to always bring your camera along with you and keep taking pictures. Bob

Wednesday February 17, 2010

2010-02-17T10:40:00.000-05:00

Good Morning to all, We had a bit of snow here yesterday. It is a winter wonderland out there. Get out and take some pictures and send them to me at roberthoranphotography@gmail.com. I will show you mine if you show me yours. Bob

Happy Birthday to George and Abe

2010-02-14T19:41:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends, Enjoy the holiday. I will be out and about taking pictures. I am doing a project on diversity at the college this week, too. So, look for some new portraits by Friday, or the weekend at the latest. Please comment on the site and send your photos for me to post. Take Care, Bob

Saturday

2010-02-13T17:46:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends, Happy Valentines Day. Get outside and take some pictures. I would like to see them. Send them to me and please cast your vote for photo of the week. See you all again soon. Bob

Thursday

2010-02-11T14:38:00.000-05:00

Hello friends, I hope you all are well. I put up an old photo from last summer. I hope that it warms your day. Bob

Wednesday 2/10

2010-02-10T19:28:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends, Thanks for stopping by. Please post to my blog if you are interested in any of my photographs, or photogrphy in general. I would like to hear from you. Take care, Bob

Tuesday

2010-02-09T11:49:00.002-05:00

Hello my Friends, It is time for a new photo of the week, updated every Tuesday. This is one of Chris' favorites. We were walking at Kenoza in early October. It was very warm that afternoon, it was also the same day we saw the cows. The little one appears in the window below this post. one of them was very interested in us, the calf was quite shy. We saw them twice last year. The other time was the hottest day of the summer, right around the end of July. I don't want to say it, but that day I did not have my camera. I broke Biff's Law. That doesn't happen much any more. I almost always have one of the cameras with me at all times, just in case. So please cast your ballot for photo of the week,tell your friends about this page, and take lots of pictures.Bye for now Bob

Good Morning

2010-02-06T10:48:00.001-05:00

Hello My friends, Thank you for visiting. I hope that you are all well. I added a few more pix in lieu of the slide show. Maybe this will work out better, it could be a happy accident. I like the size of these photos better, plus I can drag my photos out for years if I only post a few at a time. Remember to scroll down all the way to the bottom to see my new additions to the site. Anyway, I'm off to the NECC basketball game this afternoon, going to try out the new Lumix. I will be posting these photos on the Northern Essex Basketball site if I get any incredible ones. Maybe you will see some in the Tribune like last week. I hope so. Make the most of your Saturday and please comment on my blog if you stop by. Bob

Day 3

2010-02-04T14:27:00.001-05:00

Hello my friends, It took too long to download the photographs for the slide show when I tried yesterday. I am doing it at school, so I have a limited amount of time. One day soon I'll break down and get an internet provider, but right now I don't have access at home. I'll try again later on this afternoon. Check back tomorrow for more improvements. Bob

Day 2

2010-02-03T14:04:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends, Today I am adding a slide show to the very bottom of the page. It is from January 15, 2010. The same day as the photo on the top of the page. I did experiment with Picassa on a few of these. Can you figure out which ones? Anyway,I think this site will always be a work in progress. I tend to be a perfectionist, and I am certainly not perfect. Thank you for stopping by and don't forget to vote on the Photo of the Week. Thanks so much, Bob

First Post of the Web Log

2010-02-02T17:07:00.001-05:00

Hello, My friends. Welcome to my Blog. I will try to make it as interesting a place for you to visit as I can. I set it up as much like a web site as I could. I did set up a practice site over the weekend for my New Media class and I will be experimenting with both of them , so it may look quite different next week. Please check out the photo of the week and respond to the survey if you could.I plan on offering Prints and Framed Prints for sale in the future, if you are interested feel free to contact me by email. Thanks for visiting, Bob