The above photograph is of my buddy Ryan riding his bike in March. He and his brother were helping me complete a photography assignment I had from an intermediate photography class at the Springfield Art Association, taught by local photographer Sarah Chatham of NBP Studio. For the assignment, I was trying to illustrate speed/motion. After many attempts at the shot, this one turned out fantastic.

I'm posting about this photo because of a nice surprise I had April 21. More...

Hey! This happened back in February, but I'm just now writing about it. I'm a busy guy, after all ... yep.

In case you haven't heard, "The Big Lebowski" is a 1998 film, starring Jeff Bridges & John Goodman, about a couple of lazy losers who get in way over their heads in a story of guns, money and kidnappings/ransom all from a simple case of mistaken identity. If you haven't seen it, read more here. While it didn't do so well at the box office, it has since spawned a cult-like following across the world. Here in Springfield, devoted fans gather yearly at Strike 'n Spare West in February to celebrate this great flick with an event called The Lebowski Experience.

The Experience begins by closing down the bowling alley to anyone except attendees. The movie is shown, followed by team trivia for prizes. A costume contest and other activities are next. Drink specials are available during the entire event and door prizes are called out periodically. Unlimited bowling for all attendees follows, with the bowling alley re-opening to the public later in the evening. This year, entertainment was provided by the local band BüK.

This year marked my first TLE. My friends and I had a great time. I snapped some photos while there, so check out my Lebowski Experience SmugMug gallery below. You can also check out local coverage of the event in the online version of Springfield's Own Magazine.

Click to view the gallery: