What happens when you leave the place that shaped you? I grew up in California and spent most of my life there. I also explored nearby states often, especially after I got my driver's license. When I moved my daughter and I to Michigan, four years ago, I returned on periodic visits with an entirely new perspective of the places that molded me into the person I am today. After beating Stage 3c colon cancer, I felt the urge to take even more calculated risks. When I die, I want to be remembered as someone who pushed the limits of what is possible – especially with my drone work. 

These images were captured between 2018 to August, 2021. They all represent a significant step toward conquering my fears, not to mention adversity. Somehow I withstood the odds and am here today to share my story with you. Way Out West is a rebirth. I may be a Midwesterner, now, but the special places, and the memories they hold, live in this collection.

Way Out West

A new friend I met this year, though Instagram, showed this special spot when I was visiting California in June. It had been an eventful week but I was mostly hanging out with guys. Being with another woman was a nice change of pace. Most amusing was that I first met her at her home, that afternoon, since her husband wanted to make sure I was legit and not some random Internet creep hitting on her.

The sunset was incredible, at first, but the afterburn was the best part. I kept thinking we were going to call it a night but then I decided to fire up the drone and put in the air one final time. This was the moment I needed to capture and reminded me, again, of an important life lesson. You can be ambitious, and go after what you want. But with some matters, you need to wait for it. 

Wait for It

What is the value?

Details