Ben is in solace.

Went out today with the Guarin family to Urban Solace in North Park for brunch.  After filling ourselves with cinnamon rolls and kitchen sink biscuits, we decided to take a walk at Balboa Park.

Messed around with some post processing techniques, check out the snaps!

Ben is SLuRring.

Hi everyone.

The time has come for a second trip to Italy, this time to celebrate Mark and Tammy's wedding in the land of Tuscany.

I decided it was time to acquire a DSLR again so that I can document our trip properly.  I initially picked up a 60D/18-135IS kit from Calumet, but the price to happiness ratio was messed up and I returned it in true Ben Linatoc style.

On Craigslist one can maximize value by smart buying.  What I did was buy a 30D (yes 30D) for below market price and match it with a great copy of the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens.  While I usually stick to Canon L lenses, this lens has absolutely blown me away.  It is incredibly well built, focuses generally quickly and has some of the best image quality and sharpness wide open that I have seen.

Though I may still get a 60D or 7D just for the video (if I find one cheap enough) I will definitely bring the 30D along.

Check out some of my early snaps with this duo.

I didn't realize how much I missed post-processing #sadnerd

Ben is a chip off the old block.

My 55 versus my Dad's 45s.

The garage at my parents' house is fluent in German.

Ben is a 4 year veteran.

On July 1st, Grace and I celebrated our Four Year Anniversary.  We had dinner at the Marine Room at La Jolla Shores and had one hell of a meal.

The next day we drove up the 1 Freeway and visited Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, 85 Celsius Bakery in Irvine, South Coast Plaza, UNDEFEATED SM, the Santa Monica Pier and finally Umami Burger.

=)

Ben is green with envy.

After chasing them down, I was able to find a pair of the Koston SB in my size.

I must say, they really are amazing shoes.  Simple, comfy and durable.

Lunar insole beauty shot.