I recently began exchanging comments with another Google+ photographer, Monico Havier, who is a professional photographer working near Washington D.C. During the course of these exchanges, we got to talking about airplanes after I saw some of his photos taken in the Air & Space Museum. Somewhere along the line, I also mentioned that I was a pilot in the Air Force and flew the F-4.

When I saw his image of the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, I told him it was my favorite airplane from the WWII era and I always loved that shark's mouth they painted on the airplane. Shortly after that, Monico informed me that he was going to send me a large print of that photo. Then when I attempted to offer payment, he insisted that it was a gift and refused to let me pay anything at all.

Well not only did he send a print, but it is a beautiful print on premium paper, labeled and signed by Monico and included a letter of authenticity. Now, this beautiful photo is proudly displayed at the entrance to my office and is the first thing one sees as they ascend the stairs.

I'm still a bit overwhelmed by the generosity of this "stranger" I met on G+, but of course I no longer consider him a stranger … he's a friend and is welcome at my home anytime.

Thanks again, Monico.

Be sure and take a look at Monico's Blog: http://www.monicozphotographyblog.com/

He writes wonderfully informative "how-to" posts about all aspects of photography.