In this neighborhood once lived Civil War veterans, that fought in what was then called the United States Colored Troops (USCT).  Modern sensitivities have since morphed “Colored Troops” into “Afro-Union”.  However, I think the original name does them more honor.  It brings to mind the war that society waged against them, as they were asked to wage war against the south, and against slavery itself.

Although many of their homes, have fallen into disrepair, someone has taken great pains not to forget these men. Some of these men were likely sacrificed unwillingly, and others willingly sacrificed their lives, with no guarantee of a better country for themselves, but hopes for a better place for us.

Men and women who’s date of death is uncertain.  Who’s date of birth even more uncertain, lay under tombstones of wood and stone.  In some places here, a single misshapen chunk of concrete rests to mark were a grave is thought to be, with no other identifying mark.  Much is unknown about the men and women that lay here, as the name of the memorial implies.  What is certain, is that the blood of their sacrifice paves many of the freedoms I enjoy today.  Being a veteran myself, and thinking about what I saw here, and what things I tried to see here, I left seeing a …beauty in these befallen…

Three Amega’s

Any how, here is what’s been going on lately.  

These were taken at a birthday pool party recently.

The Ninja Pool Boy

By far my favorite of the set.  Introducing TheFlying Leamer

The Flying Leamer in meditation after a stressful swim!