Just a few shopping days left before the glorious celebration of Christmas. What better way to get you in the spirit than “getting out amongst” the masses of individuals crashing through the parking lots and wheeling their carts around the store bumping everything in site. I wish you nothing but safe travels and happy hunting.
One of the fondest memories I have of Christmas in Huntsville, AL. was the Saturn V Rocket decorated with Christmas lights at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center (USRC). The majestic structure could be seen for miles and what better tribute to those that paved our way in space and to the community that led the nation to the moon. It was something I joyfully looked forward to as a photographer, with pride as NASA employee and with glee as the kid that lives inside of me when Christmas nears. Unfortunately, like allot of things, that tradition found itself with the lights shut off in the 90’s.
It was to my sheer delight and amazement that I saw an image on Face Book taken by a good friend, Walt Lindblom, that gave rise to my Christmas joy. He posted a shot of a Saturn Rocket once again pointed skyward with Christmas Lights. But this time, not the rocket at the USRC but a Saturn Rocket at the Marshall Space Flight Center where the original visitor center for MSFC once stood. It brought joy to my heart and a frantic trip out to the arsenal to capture the majestic holiday splendor of this magnificent vehicle. It was a site to behold.
Highlighted by a near full moon, one Christmas tradition, to my delight, continues.
I leave you with one of my favorite quotes:
ONCE YOU HAVE TASTED FLIGHT, YOU WILL FOREVER WALK THE EARTH WITH YOUR EYES TURNED SKYWARD, FOR THERE YOU HAVE BEEN AND THERE – YOU WILL ALWAYS LONG TO RETURN
…………………….. Leonardo da Vinci
Best wishes – Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!!!!
~dK~
