Go East youngman!

 

I’m a total sucker for East Austin; admittedly it’s something I wouldn’t argue even If I wanted to. Buy hey what’s not to like?  So this year during SXSW I spent the majority of my time bouncing between my regular haunts absorbing as much music as possible and enjoying my own “backyard”. After about the thirty seventh past one of the East 6th venues while attending the festival I noticed the “showrooms” painted façade had been eclipsed by shrubbery and it was hardly noticeable behind the unruly flora. So I dug out this old shot I took a few years after The Eastside Showroom had the wall painted because quit frankly I forgot what it looked like.

The Spoke

 

I know I’ve said it before but I really don’t do neon justice when I shoot it in black and white. Regardless what it does allow you to do is appreciate the design and creativity without being distracted by all the pretty lights. The Broken Spoke is and always will be an Austin landmark. Unfortunately South Lamar is turning into “condo canyon” but the Spoke will remain and hopefully retain some of that old Austin style.  If anything the neon will be a glowing reminder to all the California transplants some things can’t be nudged out.

Nailed

 

 

This looks fun, way too fun.

Uptown

Mark Kellers 1931 Ford RPU

Marble Falls, TX

Pitmaster

Last winter my sister graduated from college and to celebrate her accomplishment my family planned a party and BBQ. I come from a long line of “hands on do; it yourselfers” and this occasion was no exception. The small Hamlet of Washington Texas came out in full force to show their support and the pits were fired up for a country BBQ. Watching the matriarchs of the community move meat and fire may look archaic it’s very much a delicate ballet of skill and knowledge.

The Barn

Every interest or hobby has some starting point and looking back at my life I can say with confidence all my automotive dreams came from this barn. One of my earliest memories growing up in the country was the construction of the barn and watching it evolve. It has housed several projects and parts, antiques and junk. I really couldn’t imagine life without it and all the memories stored inside.

Simple

I hate technology, for the last few weeks I have been at the mercy of my computer. While I was trying to operate my day to day operations from a smartphone I started to ponder the simplicity of yesteryear.  Even advertising was simpler in the past and I do have a soft spot vintage add space and signage. This lovely piece belongs to Jeff from Sugar City Speed Shop and it’s a dead ringer for something hand painted 60 years ago. If you get the chance check out his website www.sugarcityspeedshop.com  you'll be glad you did.