yesterday was father’s day. we took john out to one of his favorite places…lucky cafe (it’s total greasy spoon and soooo yummy!) of course, i forgot my camera. but, after breakfast, we headed back home to get our camera gear together and head out to a place we’d never been to. i love those spur of the moment road trips.

the destination?…mare island. this is a former naval shipyard – in fact, mare island was the nation’s first naval shipyard on the west coast, established in 1854 and ultimately closed in 1996. that’s your history lesson for the day!

it’s a photographers’ dream. in fact, the few people we saw meandering around there had cameras in their hands as well. so many great buildings and bold colors and peeling paint (my favorite!). here’s a little glimpse into our day…

anya was a good model this day. very cooperative!

stella on the other hand would give me about 3 seconds and then run up to ask to see her picture. she loves looking at the photos right after they are taken. she’s so my kid!

i just love the colors there. it’s very inspiring!

these barrels might have been my favorite.

and some photos with daddy

it was a great day. mare island is in vallejo, ca. if you live nearby or are visiting the area, i highly recommend it. there are tons of areas that are off limits, but there’s plenty that isn’t and you will have a blast snapping away – it’s one of my new favorite places to take photos now!