Picture of Freedom - My America

Triumph. Freedom. Victory. Resolve. Liberty. Independence. 

Undefeated. Future. Greatest Nation. America.

The old saying that "a picture is worth a thousand words" rings true. 

I am back after a long hiatus (more on that another time). This weekend I was in New York City for one of my close friend's wedding. New York embodies the American Spirit in so many ways. Passing by Ellis Island is a reminder of all the immigrants, including my great grandmother, who came to our shores seeking the American Dream. In the middle of the New York Harbor stands the Statue of Liberty, tall and proud, as she welcomes to her shores all seeking a new beginning. New York is not just about tall buildings, great food and shopping. Those things are because of the people who built New York. Each group of immigrants (Jews, Irish, Italian, Germans, etc) brought their traditions and expertise with them. Many, if not most, came with nothing, except a will and determination to work hard and make a new beginning. And a new beginning they made.

The new Freedom Tower is the ultimate embodiment of the American Spirit. Its official address is One World Trade Center. Yes, One World Trade Center. It has risen up from the ashes of the Twin Towers. The 9/11 Memorial lies in the shadows of the Freedom Tower as a reminder of those who lost their lives and why we must fight for our freedom. The Freedom Tower is a picture of American resolve and triumph. One World Trade Center stands in direct defiance to those terrorists who sought to crush the American Spirit.

We Will Never Forget. 

God Bless America.

Dodgers vs. Rockies - My America!

During my very short break between summer and fall semester a few weeks back, I spent the day reveling in America's pastime -- BASEBALL!!!  It was the Los Angeles Dodgers versus the Colorado Rockies. I was rooting for the away team, which also happens to be by second favorite team, the Dodgers.  It was a thrilling game which went into extra innings, 13 to be exact.  The Dodgers took a 2-run lead in the top of the 12th, but sadly the Rockies tied it in the bottom of the 12th and then won it in the 13th.  The highlight of the game was a rarity to witness in the top of the 12th -- an inside-the-park home run. It was extremely thrilling.

On the left -- "Donnie Baseball" ie. Don Mattingly

Dodger Manager and former New York Yankees 1st Baseman

 Dodger Bullpen

Jason Giambi

Rockies Pinch Hitter and former Yankee 1st Baseman

Pikes Peak - My America!

I recently had the pleasure of riding on the Cog Railway up Pikes Peak with some friends. The scenery was beautiful on the journey, however, I did not see any large wildlife.  It holds a special place in American Patriotic music as from the 14,110 summit Katherine Lee Bates saw amber waves of grain, purple mountains majesty, and spacious skies, resulting the her inspiration for "America the Beautiful."

The Rodeo - My America!

Last Saturday night I went to the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo here in Colorado Springs. It was a blast. There is nothing quite like the thrill of cowboys on bulls and bucking broncos, watching as they hold on with every ounce they can muster just to stay on top of their ride for a fraction of a second longer then everyone else. The skill involved in roping and cutting steers is amazing. My favorite event though is the barrel racing. I love watching the cowgirls with their long, curly hair waving under their cowboy hat and glitzy accessories flashing as they fly on their horse around the arena and barrels.

This is another part of my America that I love and I don't believe that any country can match. Now rodeos are for fun, more of sport, but the skills they demonstrate were a crucial essential to survival on the western frontier.

Enjoy snapshots of the rodeo through my eyes (compliments of my camera lens)...