The Wandering Disciple

Spring is in the air as the sound of batted balls fill the air over ballparks throughout Florida and Arizona. Today marked the first day of full-squad practice for the Tampa Bay Rays at their spring training complex in Port Charlotte. (Photo: February 28, 2015)

A tiger prowls the edge of a pool at the National Zoo in Washington DC. The zoo which operated by the Smithsonian Institiute is home to over 2,000 animals. (Photo: February 13, 2009)

A statue of General John Pershing is the centerpiece of Pershing Park in Washington DC. The park is dedicated to Pershing, the general who led the American Expeditionary Forces to victory in World War I. (Photo: February 13, 2009)

Located just steps away from the White House, the Willard Hotel is one of the most historically significant hotel in the Nation's capital.  Over 150 years of history can be found within the walls of the hotel.  From providing a safe haven for President Lincoln during his first inauguration to Dr Martin Luther King Jr finishing his "I Have a Dream Speech", the Willard has had a front seat.  It has been a prominent location for every president since Franklin Pierce.  (Photo: February 15, 2009)

A US Airways Boeing 737-400 prepares for flight at Reagan National Airport in Washington DC.  Reagan National is the gateway to the Nation's Capital, welcoming over 18 million visitors annually.  (Photo: February 16, 2009)

The sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico putting the end on another beautiful day in the Sunshine State.  With over 700 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, there are spectacular sunsets nightly along the beaches on the west coast of Florida.  This photo is from Gasparilla Island State Park in Boca Grande.  (Photo: January 25, 2009)

The usually calm waters of the Hillsborough River get a little rough along the Rapids Trail at Hillsborough River State Park.  This section of the river is one of a few rivers in Florida to produce rapids.  (Photo: January 24, 2009)