Today's post is brought to you by my twin loves of things that are random and a tad surreal and things that are old, rusty, ramshackle, and run-down. (There's no joking or sarcasm in that sentence--I really do love those things and find them quite photogenic, even when they're not beautiful.)

The random item is one of those pumpkin-shaped candy buckets kids carry on Halloween (in areas where kids go trick or treating) randomly hanging on the retaining wall of a road that parallels an interstate and has no houses on it for *miles* in either direction. Quoi?

The old and rundown part of the program begins with Laurel, Maryland's Suburban Airport--which, despite appearances, is a functional airport that gets about 50 flights a day. The terminal building is magnificently rust-and-mildew stained and there's a wonderful air of slow decay about it. I wish my pictures had come out better--I might have to go back at another time of day, sunrise doesn't seem to have done it any favors.

Sunset, however, did huge favors for Oaklands Manor, the neglected stepchild of the three historic mansions in town. The other two are restored and managed by the park people, but this one was, apparently, in uncaring private hands too long. It looks as though restoration is being done now (yay! it will be gorgeous when it's taken care of) but until that work is done, it will remain perfect inspiration for "The Haunted House On The Hill" and other ghost stories.

During the day the carnival, which is in the parking lot at the mall for a week, looks like a whole lot of not much, but at night with the lights reflected in the lake it's quite beautiful.

I really like the random pumpkin...t'would make an awesome print or card cover! The airport looks similar to one I've seen. Fortunately, they've found some funding and are fixing the place up. The neglected stepchild is a lovely old home - I can see the scaffolding! Did you go to the carnival? Keryl · 2011-10-25: 21:20

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