PHILLY TRIP

I'll start off by saying, "ONE OF A KIND!" To be so close to those 3000+ year-old antiquities was chilling, to say the least! I was amazed at the degree of workmanship in the pieces of jewelry, and by the frailty of the pieces. They almost looked like they were just about two or three thicknesses of gold leaf! Unfortunately, the coffin and death mask of Tut were not there, due to security reasons, but there was a remarkable coffin and ceremonial mask of a Lady Tjuya, a member of the royal family. It killed me that no cameras were allowed, so the next best thing to do is get a book that shows all the treasures of the exhibit, and realize that about half of them were here!



I did manage some shots of other parts of the museum --







Ben and me. I'm on the right!









Entrance to the Space exhibit.

Moon rock - about the size of a cigarette lighter.

Nickel/iron meteorite - about the size of a microwave, and HEAVY.

The Penn RR Rocket, built 1832.

The Baldwin Engine works steam locomotive - a BEHEMOTH!

Wright Bros. prototype flying machine.

The new Philly.

The crowds were huge, as you might imagine -- the weather was perfect! We also went to an IMax movie about the mysteries of Egypt. Ever been to an IMax theater? Well, the screen is 70 feet across, and 4 and a half stories high. And the screen is tilted 30 degrees toward the audience. Essentially, you're sitting inside a dome, and the movie is happening all around you! Not recommended for anyone with vertigo! The sound system was 22,000 watts with 54 speakers placed throughout the theater!
If you ever have the chance to go to one, do it! ~ DaveKay

** note **

DaveKay took this trip a while back. Beginning of June as a matter of fact. These were the seed that started the idea for this site. As most of you know, DaveKay became sick shortly after this trip (which if I remember right he is now calling the "King Tut's curse". He being sick not the trip) and it took a bit for me to get everything together and find the time to set it up. But better late then never ! ! He had planned a trip to the National Zoo to see Tai around the 7th of July. Unfortunately it had to be canceled. But he has sent some pics of Tai from the web cam that I hope to get up today or Wed. over on Little Bit. I know not the same as seeing him 'live' but...

Looking forward to our next 'trip'

SAFE TRAVELS EVERYONE