Peru is but a wonderful memory now.

My laptop has very little memory left. 5,000 images of Peru and 9 hours of video are running through it. My heart is in the same state, filled to capacity with memories of people who are no longer strangers, sounds with such exuberance and inflections, new foods and new places explored. A far off land that now feels so very close.

There was one statement and one question which seemed to be on everyone's mind when they met me. The question was, "Have you seen Machu Picchu yet?" I'ver heard it is awe inspiring and mystical. A true wonder of the world. A site not to be missed but I have to say, I did miss it and it was planned that way! Machu Picchu is for another time. This trip was about being with amazing and gifted people.

Roxana and Jose, a young couple who are just starting out with the hopes and dreams of fullness and a promising future. I loved photographing their looks, the moments they reached out to touch each other in both gentleness and laughter.

Hermenegildo and Irma, a couple, who renewed their vows after 50 years of marriage. They were truly celebrating this fullness which flows from the day in and day out little things. On the morning of the celebration, I walked through the gate to find Hermenegildo cutting the flowers he had grown and then arranging them into the bouquet Irma would hold throughout the day... he was so tender and so in the moment - I was totally taken by this man and his wife! The entire family also know how to throw a great party!

The statement repeated to me was, "You better put your camera away and not keep it out." At first I was thrown into fear thinking that Peru must be far worse with a high rate of robbery than many other countries I walked through comfortably with my camera. That perception quickly changed and I came to realize that the Peruvian people were just very diligent in taking care of me and ensuring that my stay would be both happy and healthy. They were constantly looking out for me and enfolding me. "La Familia" has now become "Mi Familia" and I am so very grateful! The people are the true wonders of the world! Si! Si! Si!

Fall Escapes

With the winter ice and snow, I am enjoying my time hibernating and bringing things up to date.  It was either working on the blog or doing my taxes... three guesses which one I chose!

Six weeks of the fall were spent with a friend from Italy.  Paola is a freelance journalist and came to cover the election and immerse herself in as many US experiences as possible.  I was most happy to oblige!  The first place she requested was New York City.  Taking the $12. bus from Chinatown in downtown Philadelphia is a wonderful way to travel and it brings you to the most colorful sights and extraordinary foods the New York Chinese have to offer. Our time was spent exploring the architecture, museums and indulging in international good cheer and hearty meals.  We left the excitement of New York to take in the tranquility of the Amish in Lancaster, PA.

Air Ventures Hot Air Balloon Ride

Debbie Harding was the first woman to fly a hot air balloon over the North Pole.  She is an amazing woman with a sense of adventure and great courage.  Debbie wanted to share her love with others and started "Air Ventures" in Chester County, PA.  Along with her sister, Amy, they are the nicest people to talk with. I contacted them about doing a video piece on hot air ballooning because I thought it would be great fun and beautiful from a visual standpoint.  It was all that and more!

Seven of us took off for a sunset ride on such a clear and cool night.  The experience of floating in the sky and looking down on the tranquility of fields below is one that should not be missed. After landing, we were treated to a champagne toast.  This age old tradition went back to the fields of France when balloonist would happen to land in an unsuspecting farmer's field and would try to ease the surprise with a bottle of champagne...works every time!

Reservations can be made Monday through Friday between 9 am and 5 pm.  Take off is scheduled for sunrise and sunset (I slept in and chose sunset!).