San Luis Obispo, California
The best way to explore a new place is to walk. It’s so easy to miss things when you’re driving and paying attention to the road in front of you. For example, on our walk from the motel to downtown SLO, we saw a tank.

This battle tank, the “Patton,” was in service from 1960 to 1991 and now stands in front of the Veterans Memorial Museum.

There was also an old cannon. I love the texture in the wood and the chipped paint.

I couldn’t resist a shot of Michael and me reflected in the tank’s headlight.

San Luis Obispo, California
One of the things I love about traveling is the opportunity to see something new. More than that, it gives me the chance to slow down. Michael and I spent all day Sunday walking around San Luis Obispo taking photos. About half of these were shot with my new Diana lens, the other half with my trusty 24-70mm.

I love old motel signs. If it wasn’t for the van peeking out from above the hedge, it’d be hard to date this photo.

The Diana gives this tree a soft dreamy look.

Utility boxes look much nicer when they’re painted.

There’s something creepy about Mary’s reflection in the window. Maybe because her face looks like it’s gone?

Store window with pretty bridal gowns and tuxes.

Meet Annie, the bloodhound. I never realized bloodhounds were so tall!

I borrowed Michael’s iPod Touch for this hipstamatic shot.

Bubblegum Alley is one of the smelliest and grossest landmarks ever. Newer, bright-colored gum rests on top of layers of old, black, dried-out chicle.

Is it art? A health code violation? One thing’s for sure, Monk wouldn’t be caught dead in here.

Love this door handle.

Now this alley is more like it.

The sketch artist looks lost in thought.