Frog Days of Summer

I'm a lucky guy. Back in the 1920's, my great grandfather built the first cabin at a new hunting and fishing club in Pennsylvania's Pocono mountains. I remember spending weeks there as a kid with my family during the summer. It has a perfect hill for sledding in the winter that finishes with a bump which launches you onto the frozen lake. In May, you'll hear the Spring Peepers' frenzy. In July, you pick huckleberries. There are always deer, frogs, snakes, and fish to spot. An occasional bear or beaver can be seen as well. And recently a Bald Eagle has taken nest near the inlet.

I have countless special memories at this cabin. As an adult, I appreciate it on different levels. Immediately I feel a relief upon entering the front door. There are updates but by and large it looks a bit like a time capsule from when my parents left it (orange carpet) in the late 70's with me on the way months later to be born in the more civilized Allentown Hospital. Sharing it with friends is a special treat, and each year I'm happier this is part of my family.


This bullfrog has taken up residence in the lake just behind the cabin. He's quite fearless as well making him perfect photo fodder. I was up a few weeks ago for a family portrait day (more on that to come). After the day was through, there he was. He had soothed us all in the cabin the night before with his low song. In younger days, I would have tried to catch him but now all I wanted was his picture and not to cause any stress which might have him pick a new singing spot.

There was a shot I had in mind. I wanted to have his vantage point. I blame it on playing Wolfenstein too much as a teenager. So I stood up from where I shot the first round of photos and stood directly behind him. I shot this picture and then began to stoop; but I pushed beyond his comfort zone, and he disappeared into the muck. Oh well, I liked these shots enough.


The next day was overcast which actually makes for wonderful photos. While it might not have been as ideal as the late afternoon sun in the other two shots. I'll take it. He was ready for his close up, and I got the shot I had in my mind. He's tack sharp and his world from one shore to the opposite falls off softly. Lying in moss, getting muddy, with my camera an inch or two from certain water damage was worth it.