Italy 2023

I used to think France had the most breathtaking cathedrals, but that all changed when I set foot in Italy. Italy, a country built on faith, emanates a palpable sense of spirituality from the moment you arrive. The wealth of history and relics on display immediately draws you in, forging a deep connection to your faith and to something greater than yourself. Walking among Michelangelo's magnificent marble sculptures, paintings, and architectural wonders, I felt an indescribable kinship with the artist and his profound creations. Exploring the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire was like stepping into a surreal time capsule, while wandering through the corridors of the Colosseum left me both fascinated and slightly haunted. The food was a culinary delight, and the warmth and hospitality of the Italian people made us feel right at home. Though I opted for a lighter camera on this trip, I couldn't help but wish I had brought my trusty 5D Mark IV. However, as we plan our return trip for our 20th wedding anniversary this May, I'm already looking forward to capturing even more breathtaking moments with the Canon R6 Mark II. Italy welcomed us with open arms, and I can't wait to experience its beauty all over again.

In the Greek Cross Room of the Vatican Museums in Rome, Italy, rests a remarkable mosaic from the 3rd century CE, hailing from Tusculum, a prominent ancient Roman city in the Latium region. At its center stands Athena, also known as Minerva, the revered goddess of war, encircled by the phases of the moon.