One of the projects I’m currently working on at work involves riding around on my bicycle (yes, Jackie…I do tuck my pants into my socks) and taking pictures. Some of the things I’m required to capture on film are local playgrounds.

Let me tell you something…

I’ve never felt so much like a dirty old lady. Every time I roll up with my camera, people look at me with horrified suspicion.

I guess it’s a good thing that people are so protective of their children. But…even after I explain myself and they’re still shielding their children from my view, I want to say…

“Listen, lady…it’s just a picture. I can assure you that I have no nefarious intentions. I’m not attempting steal his soul and sell it on eBay.”

Imagine. People suspicious of me…

Kerry the boogie-woman. I don’t drive a van, I’m not offering candy with razorblades, I’m not soliciting a child’s assistance in “finding my dog,” hell…I even left my ski-mask at home.

It’s reassuring and sad all at the same time.

I love to see people at parks. I love to see parents who engage in active play time with their children. It’s nice to see that they’re involved in their offspring’s lives and would shield them from any ill if given the opportunity.

It would be great if not for all that fear. …yeesh. We live in a society that thrives on fear. We’re leery of the 26 year old woman who dresses in business casual attire, rides a bike, and carries a camera. How scary and sad.

Regardless of all that, I’m having fun taking snaps about town (below are just a few of the seemingly millions that I've gathered within biking distance to my home). Creeps can manage a decent photo every once in a while…
Note to the Midwest: This is what it looks like in South Carolina during the dead of winter. I suggest you invest in an atlas and drive far far away from snow forever.