A symbol as simple as a safety pin can be an important first step in showing solidarity and support for people who are scared and upset at this time. Tell people that they are safe with you. Join this movement, inspired by Brexit.
#safetypin #whentheygolowwegohigh #solidarity
As I walked into the kitchen the other day, I saw the fading blooms on what had been a bright yellow fall mum. Past it’s prime, the blooms still drew my eye and my camera.
The demands of new job and civic work will continue to interfere with my ability to post more than a single image for the next few weeks. Soon though, I’ll be back on track, and until then, I thank you for being here even if I don’t get over to your place.
In the meantime, for those in the US, please make sure you make a plan to vote, and then be sure to follow that plan.
Frightening days, indeed.
There’s not enough coffee … just sayin’
While the other Monochromia photographers had been to see the 9/11 Memorial, it was the first time for me. It’s a moving experience, and despite the beauty of the day and the restoration of the site, I couldn’t help but think of that terrible tragedy 15 years ago.
It was daunting to attempt to photograph this space. I imagine that I am not the only one who has been intimidated.
The World Trade Center Site has been transformed into the Museum and Memorial, One World Trade Center, the One World Observatory, and the Transportation Hub. The centerpiece of the Transportation Hub is the Oculus, which in architectural terms means a circular opening, especially one at the apex of a dome. The Oculus “represents the most integrated network of underground pedestrian connections in New York City”.
The inside of the Oculus is as stunning as the outside.
In fact, I have a whole folder of interior images to work through. Please visit Monochromia to see one of Joe’s interior images.
Back on the outside, Stacy and I were taken aback by the people who wanted to use the 9/11 Memorial as the backdrop for their selfies.
As it is, I didn’t even want to put my watermark on images of the Memorial site. The almost 3000 names are the only names needed in these images.
It is a place for somber reflection and remembrance … not selfies.
If you saw my last post, you know that I had the incredible opportunity to travel to New York City to meet up with some of the Monochromia photographers. While I’d never met any of these people in person, we’d been online friends for years.
Photo Credit Theresa O’Loughlin-Giordano
I took the train from Washington, DC to Penn Station where I met Joe and Terry. After checking into our hotel, we walked right across the street to quench our travel thirst. How convenient!
Soon enough we were joined by Patti.
It was not long before the cameras came out, and we were hitting the streets.
Stacy, already in the city for a photography workshop, joined us next,
soon followed by Robyn who drove up from PA.
We visited Grand Central Station, the World Trade Center Memorial, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Central Park, and the Public Library.
We traveled by subway, taxi, and elevator (yes, there’s a story there), and by foot … many, many miles by foot!
We met great people, including Patti’s husband, Mark, and enjoyed good food and drink.
There are many stories to tell and photos to share.
Photo Credit Joe Giordano
For now though, I just have to express how fortunate I feel to have met so many great people, virtually and in person, through WP.
Please visit Monochromia to see the image of Joe that I shot when Patti captured this one of me. Thanks Patti!
Photo Credit Patti Fogarty
More NYC photos soon!
The next two weeks will find me opening a new medical practice. Despite that, I hope to find time to visit all of you this coming weekend.
As you view this Black & White image, I am on the train to NYC to meet up with some of the photographers who contribute to Monochromia!
We all know the gifts of WP blogging, and I’ve been tremendously blessed to have made friends the world over.
In just a few short hours, I’ll be gathering with photographers that I met years ago through WordPress. Since then those photographers have become friends and I cannot wait to them all in person.
Stay tuned for photos!
Just a few more shots from the Flower Seller at the Farmers Market.
Visit Monochromia to see this first image in B&W. Do you have a preference?
#cellphonephotography
Next time I’ll bring my camera!
A few weeks ago, a group of friends and I celebrated a 60th birthday in a lovely cabin in Claytor Lake State Park. As we were out exercising that first morning, we happened upon the Claytor Lake Triathlon. Started in 2011, the planners of the event wanted to hold a triathlon on the open water, as opposed to a swimming pool, and in an suburban environment, away from urban traffic. 156 competitors, including those in the relay, participated in the 2016 Triathlon.
We were so inspired as we watched individuals of both genders, all ages, and various abilities swim, bike, and run to the finish.
The hardcore athletes were easy to pick out, but it was the “regular folk” who moved us to tears.
The Triathon includes a 500 meter swim
A 12.5 mile bike
and a 5K Run
I’ve never photographed a sporting event before, but I could not put my camera down. In between cheering for the competitors, and wiping my tearful eyes, I just had to keep shooting.
What an awesome support team for Dad!
Some competitors accomplished all three portions by themselves.
Others competed in a team relay, and either swam, rode, or ran.
What a thrill to watch, and what an accomplishment for these competitors.
Maybe I’ll give it a try next year 🙂
What is it about sunflowers that make us happy?
My sister and I spent a few hours in downtown Roanoke this past Saturday while waiting on my motorcycle to get it’s 10,000 mile check.
Breakfast. Exploring the Farmers Market. Just being silly.
In addition to all that goodness, I found out that it was the Voltage Regulator that was draining my bike battery. Problem Solved!
It was a beautiful ride home! Next time I’ll bring the camera!
A few weeks ago, we gathered to celebrate the 60th birthday of a friend. This group of women has been celebrating each other’s birthdays for many years, and as the years have gone by, we have turned an evening into a weekend.
A weekend of Incredible sunrises
Lots of time on the water – photo credit Liz Altieri since I’m the one in the cowboy hat
Yummy food and drink
Gifts and Games
60 Candles and Lots of Sparklers
A comfortable cabin with lovely views
It was the perfect way to celebrate 60!
Life on the Bike and other Fab Things 