IMRAN™: In My Humble Opinion: 2025

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Security System Shows Serene Seaside Spring Sunday Scene - IMRAN®

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #boating #seaside #Sunday #weekend #spring #March #weekend

Sunday, April 27, 2025

Reflections On Past Reflecting The Present, And Majesty of Reflections As MetLife Building, Reflects In Grand Hyatt At Start Of 2010 – IMRAN®

As 2009 drew to a close and 2010 began, I faced one of the darkest chapters of my life. It wasn't just me; many shared the anguish brought on by the fallout of George W. Bush-era Republican policies—tax cuts that transformed a surplus economy into a near-depression.

Reflecting on this photo now, amid the wreckage of another promising economy undone by short-sighted governance, I see history repeating itself.

Tariffs shifted onto consumers, draconian budget cuts targeting vital services for the middle class and underprivileged—all to funnel yet another trillion dollars into the coffers of the ultra-wealthy.

This poignant, unedited (SOOC) image was taken with the Nikon D300 during the first week of 2010, on a bitterly cold yet strikingly beautiful day in Manhattan. The MetLife Building, forever etched in my mind as the PanAm Building, rose steadfastly behind the timeless facade of Grand Central Terminal. Its towering majesty reached into the urban sky, while its reflective counterpart shimmered across the pristine windows of the Grand Hyatt—an architectural poetry frozen in time.

This photograph isn’t just a memory; it’s a reminder of resilience and perspective amid personal and collective trials. But this time around, our very survival as a constitutional democratic republic hangs on the precipice of erasure.

#Architecture, #Blue, #commentary, #democracy, #economics, #Economy, #History, #IMHO, #IMRAN, #landmarks, #Manhattan, #NewYork, #NewYorkCity, #Nikon, #opinion, #Outdoors, #prose, #Republicans, #Travel Nikon Times Square, New York City Grand Hyatt Hyatt MetLife

Saturday, April 26, 2025

Thought For Food: Kudos Delta Air For Restaurant Quality Inflight Meal 35,000’ Up In The Air En Route To JFK New York - IMRAN®

How have your air travel experiences changed over time? Here’s my story.

When I started flying as an unaccompanied 7-year old child in Pakistan, PIA, the national airline was a world class operation. Even 1.5 hour domestic economy flights included sumptuous meal service.

Meanwhile meals have turned into so-called snacks — like crappy pretzels would not even give my dog.

I do have to give kudos to Delta for the fabulous quality of their in-flight meals. Mind you, this type of offering is in First Class, but even their economy snacks are far better than many others.

This particular tender beef offering on a recent flight to JFK was literally Manhattan restaurant quality. Ironically, that’s where I was flying to for the weekend.

#IMRAN #NewYork #food #foodie #travel #flying #airlines #CustomerService #CustomerExperience #DeltaAirlines #IMHO

Friday, April 25, 2025

Breathtaking Beyond Words Weekend Stunning Sunset - IMRAN®

No words can do justice or describe this beyond breathtaking sunset I captured at my blessed home on Saturday, March 15, 2025.

#ApolloBeach, #Boating, #contrails, #D300, #Florida, #IMRAN, #Lifestyle, #Maghreb, #Nature, #night, #Nikon, #prose, #seaside, #StPetersburg, #Sunset, #Tampa, #TampaBay, #Water, #gratitude

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

K2 Clearly Excited Trying To Control The Joystick... The One To Fly My Drone - IMRAN®

I hadn't flown any of my drones in quite some time, so I decided to take one for a spin on a stunning spring afternoon at home on Tampa Bay. The shimmering sea and clear skies promised breathtaking footage, but it seems K2—my now 5+ year-old German Shepherd—was far more excited than I was. With his joystick seemingly in overdrive, K2 couldn’t wait to get his paws on the drone's joystick too!

Between me trying to capture cinematic shots and him keen on viewing the controller screen & piloting, it was hard to tell who was truly in control.

#aerial, #ApolloBeach, #badpuns, #DJI, #dog, #drone, #Florida, #Flying, #GermanShepherdDog, #GSD, #IMRAN, #puns, #spring, #TampaBay, #wordplay, #pilots,

Thought for Food: Sating a River Ravi Lahore Pakistani Appetite in Riverview, Florida - IMRAN®

After a hectic, nonstop day of meetings, I’m deeply grateful everything went so well. But by 5 pm, having only had a soup all day, I was famished.

As I found myself in Riverview, Florida—ironically with hardly any view of a river—my Pakistani appetite, nurtured in the vibrant city of Lahore on the historic River Ravi, guided me to Roti’s restaurant.

Their menu is simple, and I hope it expands soon—and faster than my waistline! While Chicken Tikka Masala is among my personal favorites, this nearby spot offers Butter Chicken, known to be a go-to for many non-desi American diners. I decided to indulge in it as a late lunch and early dinner, and packed two other dishes to go.

Once the beast of Pakistani tastebuds is awakened, it craves a spicy feast for several days—and I’m more than happy to oblige!

#IMRAN #food #foodie #dining #gratitude #nutrition #health #lifestyle #Pakistan #Pakistani #Indian #wordplay #humor #prose

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Beautiful Boat Crossing Spectacular Sunset – 3 Years Ago at Apollo Beach Home on Tampa Bay - IMRAN®

Three years ago, on April 28, 2022, my iPhone 13 Pro Max captured this incredible scene right here at Apollo Beach. Despite the advancements in camera technology since then, the way this moment was perfectly rendered—even back then—makes it truly extraordinary.

The image features a neighbor's stunning boat gliding in front of and beneath the fiery golden-yellow Florida sunset. The glowing clouds set the sky ablaze while reflecting beautifully on the water visible just behind the cockpit.

Adding to the magic, the boat's radar antenna aligns flawlessly with the horizon—a detail so precise it feels almost too perfect to be accidental.

It was the perfect time to pause for Maghreb prayers and express heartfelt gratitude for all of my life's blessings.

#IMRAN #Florida #TampaBay #ApolloBeach #gratitude #boating #sunset #seaside #photooftheday #marine #seaside #Thursday #spring #reflections #photography #iPhonePhotography

Monday, April 21, 2025

GSDs K2 & Laila Beach Sunset Date Tonight On Tampa Bay - IMRAN®

My 5-year old GSD K2 loves swimming and can’t get enough of playing fetch with coconuts thrown as balls into the water. He leaps into the water, swims to retrieve the “ball”, and leap back up over the seawall.

Laila, my nearby neighbors’ beautiful GSD female is approaching age 10. She’s more like the age my precious German Shepherd Kennedy was when he crossed the rainbow bridge one year ago. But she clearly got excited each time K2 would swim in the bay and return with the object. K2 played cool.

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #GSD #GermanShepherdDogs #dogs #Sunset #sky #clouds #seaside #spring #Monday

Sunday, April 20, 2025

“It’s A Bird, It’s A Plane, It’s SuperSunset!” - IMRAN®

When nature flexes its cinematic superpowers, it delivers an Oscar-worthy spectacle right here at my blessed Apollo Beach home on Tampa Bay.

The sky ignites in fiery red and white brilliance, as if its vivid colors were lifted straight from a comic book, casting a golden glow over tranquil waters.

A lone bird and a distant plane make a cameo in this blockbuster moment. No CGI, no filters—just reality at its finest, a breathtaking display of nature’s own cinematic universe.

A moment later, like an unexpected bogey, a second bird swoops into the scene, simulating aerial dogfight maneuvers. Meanwhile, my bold yet disciplined German Shepherd dog K2 remains grounded at my feet, calmly observing the spectacle above.

When I posted the original video I had managed to take a few screenshots during, I added the Danger Zone song from the Top Gun movie soundtrack. By pure coincidence the shaking of the camera from my trying to zoom in and out added the same kind of urgency as in the opening sequence of the movies Top Gun and later of Maverick as well. I will share a link in the comments as I am sure you will love it.

As the evening sky puts on a show, it doesn’t hold back. Tonight’s sunset isn’t just stunning—it’s super!

(Captured & written on April 17, 2024)

#IMRAN #Florida #TampaBay #ApolloBeach #Sunset #Sky #Nature #Flying #Aircraft #Seaside #Beach #Birds #Movies #Comics #Superman #Wordplay

Saturday, April 19, 2025

Phoebe’s “HOME” Terminal Dive - IMRAN®

Most of you’ve probably seen pictures of Phoebe, the 21-foot flamingo turning Tampa International Airport into an immersive art experience.

Officially titled HOME, this sculpture by Matthew Mazzotta gives travelers a surreal welcome as the flamingo appears to wade through the terminal. It’s not just a statue—it’s a selfie magnet and a reminder that even airports can have a splash of whimsy.

It’s great to see Tampa International AirPort continuing to improve in the nearly 25-years I’ve flown through it and the dozen years of my living on Tampa Bay.

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #TPA #airport #sculpture #statue #art #flamingo #architecture #travel

Friday, April 18, 2025

A Dog's Life: In The End We Walk Alone - IMRAN®

As April 1, 2024, was coming to an end, I was still reeling from the news that my precious and beloved German Shepherd, Kennedy, had an inoperable tumor. I wish it had been a cruel April Fool's joke, but this was devastating, heartbreaking reality.

With Kennedy's organs starting to fail, it was simply a matter of days before one of them would rupture. Despite the excruciating pain he must have been enduring, this brave dog—forever smiling, eternally loyal—had not whimpered or moaned even once.

As we walked home from one of the many walks he still cherished, Kennedy began doing something that brings me to tears even a year later as I write these words.

He would walk alongside K2 and me as we approached home. But on those final nights, Kennedy would stop and sit down in the middle of the cul-de-sac—not in pain, not due to disability, but with a quiet grace. Upright and alert, he gazed at me and his forever home, as if imprinting the vision into his soul. Beneath the serene night sky, with palm trees standing like silent witnesses, the hauntingly beautiful backdrop seemed to echo Kennedy's profound journey. All the while, his actions, his looks, his love were engraving themselves even deeper into mine.

Kennedy would then rise and walk toward home, toward me, casting a long shadow—a lasting imprint across my memories. And in his reassuring gaze, in his gentle smile, it was as though he were saying, "In the end, we all walk alone."

Kennedy, Best Dog Ever!

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #GSD #GermanShepherdDogs #dogs #Kennedy #memories #BestDogEver

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

Serene Seaside Spring Sunday Scene - IMRAN®

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #boating #seaside #Sunday #weekend #spring #March #weekend

Monday, April 14, 2025

GSD Tug Of War With Palm Fronds On Tampa Bay - IMRAN®

The longest day of the year flew by too quickly—just like the precious five years I had with Kennedy.

K2, my forever rambunctious pup, was just over a year old at the time. On June 21, 2021, I captured a series of moments between him and Kennedy, my beloved rescued German Shepherd Dog.

By then, Kennedy had been with me for two years, always eager to join the fun—especially to keep K2 entertained and bring joy to us both. Best Dog Ever!

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #GSD #GermanShepherdDogs #dogs #Kennedy #K2 #memories

Tuesday, April 08, 2025

See Sea Dog GSD K2 & White Swan Set Sights At Sunset At New York Home Beach Last Year - IMRAN®

This was the gorgeous sunset on the Great South Bay last year. Friday had been truly hectic but positive.

I was at the beach of my blessed New York home of nearly thirty years. The water was tranquil like Swan Lake, despite a chilly 40F breeze coming towards me.

See the beautiful swan and the sea dog German Shepherd K2 calmly eyeing each other. They were seeing the seaside scene as intently as I was.

The bay water held each at bay. The very playful K2 loves jumping in the water, just like Kennedy. But, also just like Kennedy, in this moment, K2 seemed to be admiring the swan and not disturbing its peaceful evening.

Curiosity. Coexistence. Tolerance. Discipline. The stunning sunset and dramatic dusk at Maghreb prayer time completed the mesmerizing scene.

Pure GSD. Pure nature. Pure magic. Pure gratitude.

#IMRAN #GSD #GSB #GermanShepherdDog #GreatSouthBay #NewYork #LongIsland #Suffolk #Patchogue #EastPatchogue #sunset #animals #nature #beach #seaside #dusk #gratitude #TGIF #autumn #November #lifestyle #SwanLake

Monday, April 07, 2025

Tokyo, We Have An Addiction - IMRAN®

#food #Japanese #IMRAN #photography #bokeh #sushi #sashimi #fish #cooking #puns #humor #wordplay #home #dining #style #foodie #LongIsland #NewYork

Sunday, April 06, 2025

Blue Hour Manhattan Plaza 33 Ping Pong Tables Across From Macy's Herald Square - IMRAN®

Manhattan, New York City, has been my "first and forever" hometown since my first visit in 1987 and living there since January 1989l. I have always loved driving (and even keeping a car) in the city.

But I also love European cities' open spaces for pedestrians. It is interesting to see how much of Times Square, and now also Herald Square, where Macy's flagship store is, are being given more space for people to do city living. I loved seeing these table tennis "tables" (appropriately fully locked into the concrete."

I will have to play with a friend there one day. Enjoy this view of blue hour in the city at the center of the universe. This was captured at a rare moment of no one walking by on June 23, 2022.

A Dog’s Life: Watchful K2 & Kennedy's Love of Dolphins, Even Through Pain - IMRAN®

A Dog’s Life: Watchful K2 & Kennedy's Love of Dolphins, Even Through Pain - IMRAN®
As I grappled with the devastating reality that my time with Kennedy was shorter than I had hoped, fate had its own plans. The news of his inoperable tumor and his struggle with basic functions left me heartbroken. I knew it was only a matter of time before his internal organs would reach a breaking point.
Yet, even in the midst of this pain, Kennedy’s spirit remained unbroken. One evening, as we stood on the dock, a heron gracefully landed atop my home. Kennedy observed it briefly but soon grew bored, leaving K2 to keep a vigilant eye on the bird—a true bird’s-eye view guardian.
But what truly brought Kennedy to life were the dolphins. The moment K2 and Kennedy heard the unmistakable sounds of a nearby dolphin, it was as if Kennedy had found his second wind. Watching him eagerly rush to see his beloved marine companions brought me a bittersweet joy. Best Dog Ever.

© 2024-2025 IMRAN®

#IMRAN #Florida #TampaBay #ApolloBeach #GSD #GermanShepherdDogs #dogs #memories #life #loss #greatness #philosophy #LifeLessons

Treasonous Trump Tried This Tariffs Turbulence Tactic Throughout Time - IMRAN®

People forget that Trump had tried to destroy the US economy with tariffs 7 years ago as well. But then his deliberate mismanagement of the pandemic did the job for him. This time around he’s got Musk like a chainsaw and other minions like termites destroying the economy and democracy together.

I happened to be going through old piles of subscribed magazines in my NY home when I found these July and August 2018 issues of Fortune and Bloomberg BusinessWeek. Putin took over Washington DC without firing a shot.

#IMRAN #IMHO #commentary #facts #news #history #Trump #tariffs #Musk #traitors #democracy #magazines #journalism #economy

Thursday, April 03, 2025

Stunning Late Winter Sunset at Tampa Bay, Florida Home - IMRAN®

On Friday evening, February 21, 2025, a late winter sunset illuminated the skies over Tampa Bay, across from my blessed home in Apollo Beach. Stunning hues of red, yellow, orange, and gold splashed out from the intersecting bands of clouds, creating a breathtaking scene. I captured this moment using the iPhone 16 Pro Max—straight out of the camera (SOOC), with no edits or filters. A moment to say Maghreb prayers in gratitude.

#IMRAN #Florida #TampaBay #ApolloBeach #Sunset #Sky #Clouds #Nature #TGIF #Winter NoEdit NoFilter #Blessed #Gratitude #Maghreb

Wednesday, April 02, 2025

A Dog’s Life: K2 Turned 4 As Kennedy Bravely Faced The Sunset Of Life - IMRAN®

We all must face the sunset of life, whether man or beast. How we live our life, and how we face our end, are what differentiate the ordinary from the great. There is so much poignancy in this photo I took one year ago; emotions well up in me as I write these lines.

Kennedy showed his grace, sitting in the background of this photo at his forever home. Nothing could stop him from showing his beautiful smile and glowing love, regardless of what he was going through. The setting sun on Tampa Bay washed him and K2 in a golden light.

When my beloved Kennedy came into my life as a rescued German Shepherd, he was estimated to be between 4 and 5 years old. He had survived life on the streets of Texas, where he was abandoned despite someone spending thousands on some amazing training he’d had.

He had hip dysplasia. He also survived the brutal treatment for heartworm and other diseases he had before I got him. On paper, he would’ve been the last dog I’d want.

Who knew how long he would live or what other issues he would have? But in reality, there is no dog in the world I would have chosen to be mine forever, whatever time I would have him. Best Dog Ever!

Monday, March 31, 2025

A Dog's Life: Hot (Spicy Pakistani Food Loving German Shepherd) Dogs - One Year Ago Today - IMRAN®

A Dog's Life: Hot (Spicy Pakistani Food Loving German Shepherd) Dogs - One Year Ago Today - IMRAN®
About one year ago I started telling the story of Kennedy in a series of ongoing posts.... "A Dog's Life" was the recurring title phrase. Exactly one year ago today, I captured a moment that carries immense meaning in my heart.
My beloved German Shepherd Dog Kennedy (on the left) and his playful puppy companion K2 shared their love for spicy food—a joyful scene. I had made slow-cooked Pakistani beef (Nihari) with marrow-filled bones, a treat too tempting to keep to myself.
Despite knowing their doggie beds would bear the consequences, I brought the bones to them in my cluttered home office. It was worth every bit of mess to see them savor the flavors and stay close to me.
Kennedy had been facing some struggles those past few days, and in his gaze, you might notice a trace of that. Yet, his indomitable spirit—an eternal part of my soul—shines through in the way he acknowledges the spicy treat with a heartfelt smile.
That moment is a cherished reminder of his incredible strength and love for life. Best Dog Ever!

© 2024-2025 IMRAN®

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #GSD #GermanShepherdDogs #dogs #memories

Saturday, March 29, 2025

Thought For Food: Easy Choice! Why Choose Just One? - IMRAN®

Start with a sumptuous Japanese buffet in the Tampa area. Then, indulge in the desserts (not counting the ice-cream sandwich I had after these - and not even touching the half a dozen other sweet options). Finally, ponder why losing weight is so challenging.

#IMRAN #Florida #TampaBay #Tampa #food #foodie #desserts #humor #eating #dining

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Wind Weathered White Resilient Remarkable Rose - IMRAN®

Twelve years ago, I planted rose bushes in the garden of my blessed Apollo Beach home in Florida. Over the years, some have flourished, soaring to 10–12 feet tall, their fragrant, vivid blooms a testament to nature’s splendor. Yet, a few faced tougher odds—likely due to the rocky soil in some parts of the property.

One such tenacious little bush resides by the edge of my driveway. Unlike its lofty neighbors, this resilient rose has remained modest in height—just two to three feet tall. Nestled in a wind tunnel between my home and the one next door, it has faced countless challenges but has never faltered.

Today, under the already vivid late-March sun, it bore some of its regular gifts: two beautiful white roses. Their petals, though already whipped and worn by the wind’s unrelenting force today, showcased a quiet beauty, a defiant charm. Weathered but wonderful, this rose stands as a remarkable symbol of life’s enduring will to bloom, even against the odds.

#IMRAN #Florida #TampaBay #ApolloBeach #roses #flowers #nature #spring #resilience #perseverance #inspiration #gratitude

Sunday, March 23, 2025

K2 Sniffs Out the Hidden Stick in Autumn's Natural Carpeting - IMRAN®

On the chilly morning of December 3, 2024, my German Shepherd Dog, K2, and I ventured out for one of our cherished walks at my blessed Long Island, New York home of over 30 years. The crisp air had my nose playing frozen tunes, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying nature’s beauty.

As we walked around the tennis court and wandered through piles of fallen autumn leaves, I picked up a random stick and tossed it for K2. It landed and disappeared amongst the monochrome brown layers of nature’s seasonal artwork. But with just a fleeting touch of my scent lingering on the stick, K2’s remarkable nose sprang into action. Sniff by sniff, he uncovered the hidden treasure like the champion he is. Enjoy the video I posted prior to this photo.

There’s something magical about moments like these—celebrating the little joys with our canine companions amidst the backdrop of autumn’s splendor. 🐕💛

#IMRAN #Autumn #Morning #Walking #Nature #GSDAdventures #Gratitude #Blessed #IMRAN #NewYork #LongIsland #EastPatchogue #HeronPointe #GSD #GermanShepherdDogs #dogs

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

6 Years Ago, Playful Kennedy MidSummer 2019 On Florida Home Dock. Best Dog Ever! - IMRAN®

#IMRAN #Florida #TampaBay #ApolloBeach #GSD #dog #GermanShepherdDog #Kennedy #seaside #beach #summer #memories #BestDogEver

Monday, March 17, 2025

Thought For Food: Opposite Of Fast Food, At A Snail’s P(l)ace - IMRAN®

Once in a while I’ve tasted unusual delicacies at cosmopolitan buffet meals in places like Las Vegas. But I couldn’t bring myself to have one of these fairly large sized snails recently. Would you and have you tried them?

#IMRAN #food #foodie #curiosity

Sunday, March 16, 2025

GSD K2 Chilling Seaside Tampa Bay Keeping Lookout Roadside Apollo Beach Florida First Sunday In March - IMRAN®

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #GSD #GermanShepherdDogs #dogs #winter #seaside #beach #weekend #Sunday

Tonight’s Tampa Bay Beautiful Saturday Sunset - IMRAN®

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, ##Sunset #sky #clouds #Saturday #weekend #seaside #Maghreb #Ramadan #gratitude

Friday, March 14, 2025

Thought For Food: Air Fryer Mustard Honey Wasabi Salmon, Mashed Potatoes, Asparagus - IMRAN®

Yes, I wrote mustard separate from (real) honey along with wasabi, which was my random experiment recipe, not honey mustard. Delicious home cooked dinner iPhone photo May 14, 2021.

#IMRAN #food #foodie #dining #gratitude #nutrition #health #lifestyle

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Breathtaking Hibiscus At Apollo Beach Home - IMRAN®

#ApolloBeach, #Floral, #Florida, #flowers, #green, #IMRAN, #iPhone, #Nature, #pink #red, #yellow, #winter, #hibiscus

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Six Years Ago: Kennedy Commanding His Kingdom On Tampa Bay, Florida. Best Dog Ever! – IMRAN®

March 2, 2019—a twilight drenched in magic, a loyal dog wrapped in majesty. Kennedy, my noble German Shepherd, stood tall—a living monument of poise and elegance. Together, we embarked on a journey of transformation. His arrival didn’t just change my home, it transformed me. Inspiring me to walk 25,000 steps a day—12.5 miles—within just two weeks of his forever homecoming, daily 10-12000 steps walking remain my routine.

That evening, Kennedy claimed his realm from an old dock, its weathered planks creaking under his confident stance. His tail, tipped with white thanks to an accidental brush with fresh paint, seemed to wave a banner of victory. He gazed over the now-vanished golf course, surveying a legacy that only his keen eyes and regal bearing could bestow.

Just past and around the corner of homes on the right, my sanctuary—the bayside blessed home I’m grateful to call mine—waited for our return. Beyond the canal, opening to the infinite embrace of the bay, Symphony Isles was destined to become Kennedy’s canvas, his stage, his kingdom.

#IMRAN #GSD #memories #dog #GermanShepherdDog #autobiography #Kennedy #TampaBay #ApolloBeach #Florida #BestDogEver #MansBestFriend #sunset #seaside

Monday, March 10, 2025

Red Rose White Wall Fabulous Friday Pretty Petals Morning Moisture - IMRAN®

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #flowers #roses #winter #RedRose #nature

Sunday, March 09, 2025

New Year’s Eve Morning Flight Around Empire State Building & Manhattan, New York - IMRAN®

The last morning of 2024. Another opportunity to fly in the amazing airspace above my forever American hometown, Manhattan, New York City. The Empire State Building, the United Nations, Harlem (East) River, and midtown architecture gleamed beneath me. Later, I would enjoy walking my city streets where, by evening, a million revelers would gather to ring in the new year 2025 with the Times Square ball drop.

#IMRAN #NY #NYC #Manhattan #flying #architecture #travel #aviation #landmarks #UnitedNations #EmpireStateBuilding #NewYearsEve #morning #NewYear #TimesSquare

Saturday, March 08, 2025

Breathtaking Hibiscus At Apollo Beach Home Today - IMRAN®

#ApolloBeach, #Floral, #Florida, #flowers, #green, #IMRAN, #iPhone, #Nature, #pink #red, #yellow, #winter, #hibiscus

Thursday, March 06, 2025

Five Years Ago Tonight: A Breathtaking Sunset Set The Sky Ablaze Over My Beloved Tampa Bay Home – IMRAN®

On the evening of March 3rd, 2020, I had the privilege of capturing a breathtaking sunset—a radiant masterpiece of nature I merely stitched together from six Nikon D850 images. While the original panorama is a massive 360 MB in size, this smaller version allows me to share its beauty online.

For three magical years, I was blessed to call this serene corner of Tampa Bay my home. Just a month before this moment, life had thrown some challenges my way. Yet, the infinite grace of Almighty Allah, the Creator of the universe, shone upon me once more, filling my heart with gratitude.

I remain eternally thankful for His countless blessings.

#ApolloBeach, #Beach, #BeachLife, #Cloud, #Florida, #GulfOfMexico, #IMRAN, #Lifestyle, #Nature, #Nikon, #seaside, #Sunset, #TampaBay, #winter

Wednesday, March 05, 2025

Hope Inspiring Resplendent Roses & Blossoms At Blessed Home Long Island, New York, Day Before My Birthday 2012 - IMRAN®

Hope Inspiring Resplendent Roses & Blossoms At Blessed Home Long Island, New York, Day Before My Birthday 2012 - IMRAN®
A dozen years ago before I penned these words in 2024, the rose bushes at my blessed home on Long Island, New York, were in full, glorious bloom. It was the early summer of 2012, the day before my 50th birthday.
The tornadoes and droughts of total economic meltdown, brought on by the policies of Republican President George W. Bush which enriched the super-wealthy with one trillion dollars of tax cuts, had wreaked havoc on my life as on millions of ordinary individuals, families, and entire towns. The next few years were spent on surviving, recovering, and rebuilding. Even then it was a rocky road.
By the time 2012 rolled in, after a labyrinthine journey of heart-sinking troughs, fleeting peaks, and unexpected drops into new valleys, life began to hint at a promising change ahead. I had to remind myself that life’s most exquisite blooms often come accompanied by the piercing thorns of reality.
The key is to persistently tend to one’s garden of dreams, rooting it in unshakeable faith, nurturing it with the water of hope, showering it with the rain of love, fortifying it with the grains of gratitude, and ceaselessly illuminating it with the lights of confidence, and perseverance.
No matter the adversities you face, remember, they are but temporary. You possess the strength to surmount them. Never let go of your dreams. Never relinquish your authentic self. Within you lies an indomitable spirit. You are capable of blooming despite the thorns. Are you ready to live the life you dream of?

© 2012-2025 IMRAN®

Tuesday, March 04, 2025

Whitestone Bridge & New York City From Throgs Neck Bridge As Snowstorm Began Winter 2024 - IMRAN®

I captured this fleeting image from the rear seat of a limousine being driven home to Long Island after a speech on artificial intelligence and innovation in New Jersey late on December 4, 2024.

We were about to cross Throgs Neck Bridge as I watched Whitestone Bridge and the New York City skyline in the distance. It was frigid and windy as snow was starting. So it wasn’t very tempting to roll down the window for a better picture.

#IMRAN #travel #driving #NewYork #NewYorkCity #ThrogsNeckBridge #bridge #WhitestoneBridge #landmarks #night #winter

Monday, February 24, 2025

German Shepherd Dog K2 Contemplating Passage Of Time, Awaiting His Birthday, Watching Tampa Bay For Dolphins - IMRAN®

#IMRAN #Florida #ApolloBeach #GSD #dogs #GermanShepherdDogs #humor #TampaBay

Saturday, February 22, 2025

Thought For Food: Air Fryer Salmon With My Always New & Unique Marinade, With Steamed Veggies - IMRAN®

#IMRAN, #cooking, #salmon, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #AirFryer #foodie #HealthyEating

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Tokyo, We Have An Addiction - IMRAN®

#food #Japanese #IMRAN #photography #bokeh #sushi #sashimi #fish #cooking #puns #humor #wordplay #home #dining #style #foodie

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Landmark Verrazano-Narrows Bridge New York City From Belt Parkway During Late Christmas Day 1200+ Mile Drive New York To Florida Home - IMRAN®

#IMRAN #NewYork #NewYorkCity #cars #ChristmasDay #Christmas #inspiration #gratitude #architecture #bridge #landmark #travel #travelogue #trees #BlueSky #winter

Monday, February 17, 2025

Heaven's Bloodshot Eyes Crying Oceans Of Tears In Memory Of My Beloved Mom's 33rd Death Anniversary (2/2/1992) - IMRAN®

My beloved mother left us at age 50 on 2/2/1992. Even after 33 years, the tears have not ceased. Thinking of that day still brings an unending flow of sorrow.

As I saw this sunset on her anniversary at my blessed Florida home, I was overtaken by emotion. Even heaven's eyes are bloodshot, crying oceans of tears. The sun seemed to understand the pain I, her firstborn son, have endured all these years.

I do not expect it to abate now or for the time I have left before I see her again in the Universe around us.

#IMRAN #sunset #anniversary #mother #life #memories #gratitude #prose #nature #Florida #ApolloBeach #TampaBay

Photo with 18 years old Nikon D300.

Sunday, February 16, 2025

(6 Years Ago, My Search For The) Best Dog Ever! - IMRAN®

Since I was two years old in Pakistan, starting with my first GSD, Jack, German Shepherd Dogs have always held a special place in my heart. My family in Pakistan continued to have them even when I left for the United States nearly 40 years ago.

When I moved to America, starting with life in Manhattan, New York, I couldn't bear the thought of confining a GSD in an apartment—it felt like cruelty to me.

Even after building my dream home on Long Island 30 years ago, the demands of work and frequent travel prevented me from getting a dog.

Watching my neighbors struggle through the snow to walk their pets made me hesitate even more. My longing for a German Shepherd grew stronger after I moved to my fantasy home in Apollo Beach, Florida.

Yet, once again, frequent travel held me back. The hurdles of adopting from shelters—endless paperwork, nonrefundable fees, and strict terms—kept my favorite companion out of my life.

By 2018 and 2019, I was determined to bring a German Shepherd into my home. A beautiful beloved former lover, a dog owner herself, joined me in the search, even meeting with sellers in her area.

Then, on Valentine's Day in 2019, while I was visiting my New York home, she found him—a beautiful rescue dog from Texas who had traveled to Tennessee in search of his forever home.

He had been named Denver and later Westmoreland, by the kind souls who had cared for him along the way to becoming....

#IMRAN #GSD #GermanShepherdDogs #dogs #Kennedy #autobiography #BestDogEver #ValentinesDay #gift #love #MansBestFriend

Thought For Food: Goat Curry At Roti Saturday Night - IMRAN®

I was craving Pakistani Indian food few weekends ago. Saturnight (that makes more sense to me than calling it SaturDAY Night) I tried out the new place in Riverview. It was opened by a really nice gentleman I got to know from his earlier restaurant in Brandon.

Ironic to have eaten Naan, clay-oven flame-baked bread — not roti, that’s made on a black metal plate on a stove — at a place called Roti. It’s a very basic place with reasonable prices for a quick bite to eat.

Closeup of the goat curry, which was ok but not as great as the butter chicken. Hoping they’ll improve.

#IMRAN #Florida #Riverview #food #dining #foodie #Pakistani #Indian #cuisine #FoodReview

Saturday, February 15, 2025

How Cool! That’s Hot! AC Unit Infrared Photography - IMRAN®

#IMRAN #Florida #photography #infrared #night #design

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Thought For Food: Butter Chicken At Roti Saturday Night - IMRAN®

I was craving Pakistani Indian food this weekend. Saturnight (that makes more sense to me than calling it SaturDAY Night) I tried out the new place in Riverview. It was opened by a really nice gentleman I got to know from his earlier restaurant in Brandon.

The butter chicken on the right was an absolutely delicious A+. (Closeup of the delicious butter chicken.)

#IMRAN #Florida #Riverview #food #dining #foodie #Pakistani #Indian #cuisine #FoodReview

Monday, February 10, 2025

Spectacular Mild Winter Florida Sunshine Selfie Entering Apollo Beach Neighborhood Gate Late Friday - IMRAN®

I wanted to take a picture of something at the gate of my Symphony Isles neighborhood but the iPhone camera switched to the selfie side.

Who was I to argue? I just clicked and got this unplanned picture. Yes, my hands are on the steering wheel as you can see in the reflection.

Wearing shortsleeved shirts is one of the perks of Florida living in winter. I still haven’t taken off the 20 lbs I put on from being at the New York home after the hurricanes hit Tampa Bay.

#IMRAN #Florida #TampaBay #ApolloBeach #driving #cars @MercedesBenz @MauiJim @Izod #humor #selfie #winter #style

Sunday, February 09, 2025

Pakistani Flag Symbol Crescent Moon & Solitary Star Framed By Palm Fronds' Silhouette At Tampa Bay Florida Last Sunset Of January - IMRAN®

Imagine how fast time flies. As the last sunset of January cast its magic on Tampa Bay, it marked one-twelfth (1/12) of this year already being over. The year 2025 itself will be the completion of literally one quarter (1/4) of this century!

As I saw the crescent moon and solitary star framed by palm fronds' silhouette at sunset near my home, they reminded me of my birthplace, Pakistan. A solo boat was also just entering the frame.

It being the last day of January, I also reflected on how quickly 36 years of my American life have flown by. Our journey on the ocean of time slides by so fast until we glide away into our final sunsets.

Grateful for every day and night, I said a Maghreb prayer of gratitude for health, happiness, and family. I asked for strength, courage, discipline, and wisdom to still achieve the many goals and aspirations God gave me the potential for. Amen.

#IMRAN, #Florida, #TampaBay, #ApolloBeach, #Sunset #sky #clouds #life #autobiography #history #prayers #Maghreb #gratitude #Pakistan #inspiration #symbology

Sweet Surreal Saturday Sunday Snow Storm Spanned Sea Sky Scene - IMRAN®

Almost 5 inches of snow fell on Long Island, New York between Saturday evening and Sunday morning.

Saturday, February 08, 2025

K2 (Not) Howling At The (Full) Moon At New York In Winter - IMRAN®

Mid-December it dark like midnight even at 6 pm in New York. During his first real winter at the Long Island home last year, K2 loved the weather. He chose to focus his energy on the big stick at hand (or paw) than to go into werewolf mode howling at the full moon.

#IMRAN #NewYork #LongIsland #EastPatchogue #HeronPointe #GreatSouthBay #GSD #GermanShepherdDogs #dogs #night #winter #FullMoon #wordplay #nature

Friday, February 07, 2025

Gold Sunset Cold Tranquility At New York Home Beach - IMRAN®

Blessed to have first seen this spot after a snowstorm end-1993, I was sold. I am blessed that it’s been my blessed New York home’s backyard for 30 years.

The gold sunset in the direction of my “forever American hometown” Manhattan, the cold water of the Great South Bay rippling onto the private beach, the bold tree stump washed ashore many storms ago, all fold into a scene that never gets old, truth be told.

I captured this moment on 7 December 2024. I was out walking there with my dog K2. A perfect moment to say a Maghreb prayer of gratitude.

#IMRAN #NewYork #LongIsland #EastPatchogue #HeronPointe #GreatSouthBay #Sunset #sky #clouds #seaside #autobiography #HomeSweetHome #nature #tranquility #wordplay

Thursday, February 06, 2025

Watching First Snowfall After Many Years While At New York Home On Beloved Father’s Anniversary - December 21 Last Year - IMRAN®

Around the Christmas holidays, I was at the blessed home I built exactly 30 years ago on the South Shore of Long Island, New York. It was a special moment as I witnessed the first snowfall of the season after nearly a dozen years of successfully avoiding that weather, especially the brutal winters.

Most of that time, I’ve been living in Florida. I made far fewer trips to New York during the pandemic years than usual for me.

Mild and light snow like this has always been a joy for me since I was a child in Pakistan. Back then, my beloved parents would take my siblings and me to the beautiful hill station of Murree, north of Islamabad, to experience the snowfalls.

My father had visited me in the autumn of 1996 but left before he saw any snow at this home. In a personal twist of fate, I recorded this snowfall on the morning of December 21, the same date he left us in 2008.

Every moment, every breath, every snowflake is experienced in gratitude for having had the parents, the life, and the blessings God gave me.

#IMRAN #NewYork #LongIsland #EastPatchogue #HeronPointe #GreatSouthBay #winter #weather #Christmas #snow #snowfall #autobiography #HomeSweetHome

Wednesday, February 05, 2025

Tokyo, We Have An Addiction - IMRAN®

#food #Japanese #IMRAN #photography #bokeh #sushi #sashimi #fish #cooking #puns #humor #wordplay #home #dining #style #foodie