The Washington Memorial Chapel

The Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge National Historic Park is a majestic structure overlooking a scenic valley that is only a small part of Valley Forge. Completed in 1917 it stands strong and mighty just as our Continental Army did during the 1777-1778 winter that it spent here. The National Patriots Bell Tower next to the chapel chimes its carillon’s often, which echo through the park. The tower was funded by the Daughters of the American Revolution. The inside of the chapel is breathtaking, so time your visit well to make sure it’s open.

​Washington Memorial Chapel

Nikon D800​ Tokina 16-28mm f/2.8 @ 18mm f/8 ISO 100 HDR 5 frames 1/640-1/40 sec

​Inside the Washington Memorial Chapel

Nikon D5100 ​Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 @ 11mm f/8 ISO 100 HDR 5 images 1/3-5 sec

9-11-2012

A few days ago on 9-11-2012 I picked up my daughter from art class Headed back to her house, we decided to take a little drive through Valley Forge National Historic Park. Our timing was excellent as you can see from the photographs. Standing in such an historic place, on such an important date made me reflect on all those souls who would never see a sunset like this one again. It made me appreciate this one even more.

​Sunset at Valley Forge 9-11-2012

Nikon D800​ Tokina 16-28mm f/2.8 @ 16mm f/9 ISO 100 5 image HDR 1/160-1/10 sec

The Chase

Close to where I live there is a Great Blue Heron who taunts me. Now I realize it’s probably in my mind. Whenever I approach him to gain a picture, as with a sixth sense, he flies away. I have tested the limits of stealth and preparedness but still he eludes me. This picture isn’t of my nemesis, but it could be a mug shot. I will be vigilant in my quest.

​Great Blue Heron in flight

Shot with Nikon D800 Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8​

Settings 200mm f/2.8 1/800 second ISO 800​

The waning days of summer

Now that the cool breezes of September have arrived I like to imagine what it would be like to live in a climate where 60 degrees is very cold, 75 is average and 90 is rare, but an ice cold margarita keeps things pleasant. Back in January 2012 we visited a group of islands in the Caribbean. Turks and Caicos is a great place to get away from the frozen tundra of the Northeast. I don’t want to sound like a commercial but, with flights from Philadelphia reasonably priced, and only 3.25 hours non stop it is a great vacation spot. Great food, beautiful beaches, and wonderful people. I’m looking forward to returning.

​Sailboat in a peaceful harbor, Turks and Caicos

Shot with Nikon AW100

Settings 5mm f/7.8 1/500 second

Every Day

I have seen many days that trudge on in the dirge of life’s most inconsequential events. The monotony of doing the mundane...what MUST be done... can drain us of life. I search every day for something greater. Sometimes I have to search hard, and other times... a view of glory presents itself, as the new day dawns.

​Sunrise at Marsh Creek, Labor Day weekend 2012

Shot with Nikon D800​ Tokina 16-28mm f/ 2.8

​Settings: 16mm f/13 HDR of 5 frames at 1/10 - 1.6 seconds