November 8, 2011

Yosemite National Park

Copyright May Rogers 2011.
All rights reserved.
Photos shot using Sony DSLR


Find MM.Rogers Photography on Twitter.

Four-hour drive from San Jose to east central California, passing by wine countries and pistascio nut groves before the majestic nature of Yosemite Valley reveals itself before your very eyes. Visiting in November, I expected colorful fall foliage and seasons transition but instead I was greeted by breathtaking snow flurries and welcoming scent of pine trees.

Tunnel View provides the amazing view of Yosemite Valley including all the big names - El Capitan, Half Dome, Sentinel Dome, Cathedral Rocks and Bridalveil Falls. Right here is a visitor's favorite photo spot.

Half Dome is the most distinctive monument on Yosemite, can be seen from all points of the valley. Since Glacier Point is closed on snowy days, the best view is from Tunnel View.

Bridalveil Falls and Cathedral Rocks.
Bridalveil Falls is year-round waterfall flowing freely with occasional crashing blow more powerful as you approach it. The hike to the falls takes 10-15 minutes passing by a small flowing stream. El Capitan (below) is a massive granite monolith that stands 3,593 feet considered to be the El Dorado of rock climbers all over the world.

Mariposa Grove protects many giant sequoias and fir trees.
The noble giant sequoia with its massive trunk rising skyward, it can live for over two thousand years with trunks that can reach over 25 feet thick.
me in Yosemite

The gorgeous Awahnee Hotel opened in 1927.

Next: MADERA WINE COUNTRY

October 6, 2011

History San Jose (California)

Copyright May Rogers 2011.
All rights reserved.
Photos shot using Sony DSLR


Find MM.Rogers Photography on Twitter.

Situated on Senter Road, History San Jose is a little town of preserved developments and restored landmarks, homes and changes that took place in San Jose dating back 1800s. Fenced in wires and iron gates, this quaint community of centuries-old houses, hotels, schools, museums, bank, church and store will give visitors a glimpse of the 'old life'. Walk into one of the Victorian houses and see what 1800s furniture, workroom, kitchen, guest room and even a baby room look like while listening to warm true stories offered by a family member who once lived in the very house.

Ranked as number 8 must-see attraction in San Jose by Tripadvisor (out of 56), a visit to History Park costs about $11 for a century-worth of historical information.







Jim Gard is a very friendly volunteer at the old printing press house at History San Jose. See more of Jim and how the 10 x 15 Liberty Press works. See youtube video by KTEHTV.




V-J Day in Times Square replica








Next: YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK