In Plain Sight

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Axe Man

While the green headed man's back was turned, the guys in the tire shop were building another man... a man with an axe.

Here he is doing push-ups in the parking lot.

Smokin' a cig

He carries his own water bottle, too...

Um... has that axe been used?

I first saw this metal man out of the corner of my eye in 2008. I was stuck in heavy traffic, alone in my car. The setting sun reflected off of his face mask as he bent toward me. My first thought was: "Alien!"

It took just a second for me to realize that he was not alive and that I was actually safe. I had to laugh at my reaction, though I was still a little creeped out.

It took a month before I could get back and take a picture of the green headed man. The position of the sun was not the same, but the metal man with the green head was still poised to greet potential customers and creep out passers-by.

Howell Mill Rd at Defoor Ave / Bellemeade Ave

Orange Man

I really enjoy meeting the metal men in the neighborhood. I met this orange man in 2008. He was directing Waffle House customers to the car repair shop next door.

The orange man has since moved on. I hope he's doing well and has a happy home where he's appreciated.

Austell Rd at South Cobb Dr

Metal Man - Front

Metal Man - Back

Purple Man

This purple metal man watches the road outside the Precision Auto Care shop. Customers like him - especially the kids. They also like the nice folks inside the shop.

Benson Poole Rd

Monday, December 12, 2011

Camel Sighting

I could not believe my eyes when I saw this! The last thing I would expect to find around here is a camel! But there he was, perched on a hill beside the highway, gazing solemnly out across the horizon toward the angular silhouette of Kennesaw Mountain. I had to take a closer look.

Old 41 NW at Hwy 41

The camel had come to this place, this sacred ground where Union and Confederate soldiers camped, fought and died 150 years ago in a great battle. For his part, the camel, symbol of a far land, famous for his part in the story of the Wise Men's journey to worship the Messiah, was pitching Christmas trees for the local branch of the Shriners. It is truly amazing how the threads of history intertwine.

For their part, the Shriners gathered around the campfire were perfect gentlemen. They welcomed me and gave me a tour of their Christmas tree lot. They introduced me to the camel.

Apparently this camel is an old and honored member of the Yaarab Shrine Temple in midtown Atlanta. He has been visiting the Kennesaw Mountain branch, but plans to return to the Temple in the new year. The Shriners told me that they have enjoyed his visit with them, that he has become a valued member of their close community and is somewhat of a confidant and friend.

The camel is not just a "another pretty face." He has special abilities. He can roll his eyes, move his lips and wag his tail. He is always ready for a party or a parade. I was impressed with his quiet presence and dignified demeanor.

As I took my leave, I noticed that another storied celebrity was visiting the Christmas tree lot. Apparently Rudolph is selling firewood these days...