We had the original.  

Don't laugh, but yes, we had an AMC Hornet wagon at one point in my childhood.

It was an ugly shade of gray with crisp white pin-stripes on each side.  These cars were not designed to be flashy nor were they built for speed.  During your free time just Google AMC Hornet and you'll see what I'm talking about.

It turns out though that this car was more than just a set of wheels; it was literally a rolling classroom and strangely enough it taught me a few things that still are part of my life today.

One hot summer day my mom, my sister and I were heading to Rocky Mount to see my granny and papa Cooper (the Scuffling Hill Coopers, lol) when a water hose blew off and we left a trail of steam and water about 1/2 a mile long on what is now six mile post road.  There were no cell phones back then so it wasn't like we could call someone to come get us.  We just had to wait patiently until someone stopped and offered to call dad to come get us (he is a mechanic).  

But that was really the only trouble that car ever gave us.  It wasn't the flashiest ride in the neighborhood and sometimes I didn't want to be seen in it, but I'll admit that it had character.  It showed me the value of making the best of what you have. 

Mom and Dad worked hard to give my sister and me the things we needed to succeed.  Life isn't always about the shiniest and newest – sometimes, it's about embracing the dependable and finding joy in the journey.

That Hornet, even with all of it's quirks, taught me about respecting simplicity. In a world filled with constant noise, there's just something about keeping things straightforward and authentic. I've tried to carry this philosophy into my photography – stripping away the unnecessary to capture the raw, genuine moments.

In a world that often glorifies the extravagant, it's important to remember that there's beauty in the everyday. Embrace the simplicity, appreciate the journey, and find joy in the little things. 

And most of all cherish the dependable aspects of your life, just like that old AMC Hornet.

Jonathan

Mess E Photos

P.S. Feel free to reach out to me anytime with your questions, comments or if you just want to chat about life. I'm here for you!

Text or Call Me! (540-793-0798)

Email Me! (jonathan@mess-e-photos.com)