bodanzarama

Apologies for intrusion. Test in progress

2011-07-12T17:36:00.001-07:00

Coming to you live from my own Galaxy!

Cats Don't Know From Editing...

2011-07-12T10:59:00.001-07:00

But they make editing more relaxing. Working from home today and Miles is assisting.

Coming to you live from my own Galaxy!

Mt. Baker and Mt. Shuksan

2010-10-04T05:47:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago we headed to Bellingham/Fairhaven. It's a good jumping off point to explore Mt. Baker and Artist's Point. Even from Bellingham, it's an hour and a half drive to Artist's Point (cuz you have to stop for coffee, of course). We planned to walk the Chain Lakes Trail until we were satisfied. It was more important to go for a pretty drive on rural roads and get outside than to clock lots of miles.

As we started out on the Chain Links Trail, a large lenticular cloud hung over Mt. Baker. The cloud would remain right there for our whole adventure. But that's what part of makes mountains cool - those lenticular clouds.

Getting closer to the mountain. You can spot a hiker on the trail to show you the scale of the landscape. Really magnificent. You can see how perfect the weather was this day. I peeled off the layers I wore not long after we started walking.
For more scale, you can see S on the trail on our hike back to the car. That is Mt. Shuksan, the other reason for the trip. Between the two peaks
Here is Shuksan from the parking lot. I like the contrast of the dark green trees, the red rock, and the white snow and glaciers. Below is Shuksan from the Picture Lake pullover. There is a paved trailed all the way around and this is the money shot when you drive to Mt. Baker/Artist's Point. It was a bit late in the day (or too early, depending on whether you want morning or early evening light) to avoid some glare. But the flaming reds and oranges were too inticing to ignore snapping a few shots.

Around Town Observations

2010-08-14T07:04:00.000-07:00

Brilliant hydrangeas on the campus of Seattle University.

Mystery Solved

2010-07-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

What is it? A sand dune? An air bubble? A very big lost sock?
Ahhhhh, napping kitty!
Wake up!

Olympic Peninsula - Hurricane Ridge and Hoh Rainforest

2010-07-24T14:40:00.001-07:00

A quick get-a-way to Olympic peninsula the 15th and 16th to celebrate my birthday a little early. We couldn't have asked for better weather. At the Vashon ferry dock the fog shrouded everything but once at Southworth we knew we'd have a beautiful day. Above is Hurricane Ridge, part of the Olympic National Park. You access the mile-high Hurricane Ridge via Hurricane Ridge Parkway in Port Angeles. We claimed a bench, wheeled over the cooler, and lunched on various goodies with this panorama a our view.
I wonder what S spies.

Descending Hurricane Ridge Parkway we pulled over to admire the view of Mt. Baker. Looks like it' floating over The Straight of Juan de Fuca (SJDF) and the city of Sequim (skwim).
In this shot you can easily spy the Dungeness Spit, part of the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, arching out into the SJDF. Click on the photo to enlarge it and I bet you can just make out the Dungeness Lighthouse towards the end of the Spit. It's about a 5 mile walk to the lighthouse. I've done this hike to the lighthouse and back. You need to time it with a low tide to get the most of the experience.
A lone barge.
The next day we went to the Hoh Rainforest, also in the Olympic National Park. It's not my first time to the Hoh but it's the first time I had to wear sun screen while visiting. We had blue skies and sun. We saw some amazing trees and mosses, ferns and lichens. This tree split and fell. I should have put S in the shot to lend a sense of scale. Take my word, these are giant "splinters" of wood.

I love to look at the patterns in the trees.
And I must say I'm a sucker for any kind of lichen.

Again, it's hard to grasp the size of this tree but it's easily as wide as my car.

Elk encounter #1. Click on the photo to enlarge so you can see the large male elk with full rack in the photo. A park ranger lady is in the middle of the shot wearing a dark jacket. Another ranger then shoo'd the elk, waving his arms and barking out noises. I guess the wildlife is used to humans and the elk was seemingly uninterested in anything but eating. However, wildlife is wildlife. Appreciate it from a distance. Look but don't touch or feed.
Tall.
OK, there was just no way to get the whole fallen tree in the shot especially because of the slope in the trail. I'm standing at the top of the tree. Actually, I'm standing a good 10 feet from the top. S is standing several feet from the base. Click on the photo to enlarge. You should be able to make her out wearing a dark shirt and light shorts. It's amazing. This was once standing up. It fell but didn't break? There are not breaks in this tree. It just hugs the curve in the land.
Elk encounter #2: Getting closer. Yep, that's a male elk, again with full rack. Not sure if it's the same elk from earlier. Guess it doesn't matter. He came walking across the trail, munching along. Everyone stopped and stepped back and just watched. Good humans. No false moves were made. No sudden noises. Just cameras clicking.
Off he goes.
Along the 18-mile road to the visitor center you spy a sign that says simply Big Spruce. Big, indeed.

Art House Co-op Sketchbook Project

2010-07-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

I received my sketchbook for the Art House Co-op Sketchbook Project! Very excited. The idea is simple - create in the sketchbook and mail it back. The book then becomes part of the permanent collection at The Brooklyn Art Library. Notice the bar code? This makes it possible for you to check-out my journal if you happen to be visiting the The Brooklyn Art Library or the tour of the library comes to your town. Here is a map of the tour. Not terribly extensive, I know. Still, I'm going to be in a library and I'm going on tour. How cool is that?

There are few rules. It looks like a bigger list than it is. Some of this is technicality info. Basically, do whatever you want to your book as long as you retain the original dimensions.

* If you didn't complete last year's sketchbook, you can't use it for this year's Project. You have to sign up again.
* Your book must remain within the dimensions of 5.5 x 8.5 inches. It can open up to something wonderful (of any size), but it must fold down to the original dimensions. You are welcome to unbind, rebind or alter the book in (almost) any other way. If you want to use a thicker stock of paper, go for it!
* Your barcode must remain in place on the book - no moving or covering it. An altered or unreadable label means we have to disqualify you from the tour.
* You are free to alter, design, and work on the cover of the sketchbook! In fact, it is encouraged not to leave the covers blank.
* The theme is a great starting point, but in no way is meant to be a restriction. If you feel restricted, loosen up and just have fun. We will not judge or disqualify you by your use of the theme. Be creative!
* Your book must be postmarked by January 15, 2011. No exceptions.
* We do not offer refunds for people who do not finish their book, period.
* All sales are final! Please read the rules if you are unsure about signing up. Please realize that we are not some big time corporation and we get no outside funding. There are two of us putting on this entire project and all submission fees go back into it.
* If you do not receive your sketchbook due to a shipping issue, you have until November 15, 2010, to notify us. After that date, we are unable to issue refunds or resend the sketchbook.
* We reserve the right to switch sketchbook books, brands or sizes at any time without notice.I have no special plans for the sketchbook. Just going to fill it like any other journal book I'm working on. This means doodles, collage, watercolors, acrylics, ink pens, markers, colored pencils, pastels, etc. Could be anything. Should be fun.

Colorado Road Trip

2010-07-07T20:33:00.000-07:00

Back in mid-June we headed to Colorado for some Denver time and then a road trip. I've finally sorted and posted the pics with a bit of narration. I tried to keep things short and to the point. The pics do most of the talking. The trip was great fun. K & D were our main hosts. D & K & L made other days in Denver tons of fun. We weathered heat and sun and bloody noses (from the altitude) but all in the name of fun. Don't forget to click on a photo to enlarge it.Riding the Link Light Rail to the airport was easy. We only checked one bag between us and it was rolled easily from our place of employment to Westlake Center where we hopped on the train. For $2.50 we didn't worry about traffic or parking. The rail drops you at Sea-Tac at the far end of the parking garage level where ground transportation is located.
Instantly, we're in Denver. Well, what could I tell you about waiting in the airport or riding in a plane. Both were uneventful and that's just how we like it. Our first day in Denver we spent with D & K & L. They were excellent hosts the whole day. Here is K at the farmers market showing off her skills. Brunch was at Lola and it was delicious. Take a look at the menu. I had the "al pastor" benedicto. I never order pork in a restaurant and I never order eggs benedict. Lola put a new twist on an old dish and I ate every last crumb. I need to learn how to make the masa-buttermilk biscuit.Some of the Lola decour. I really dig the Southwest and Day of The Dead influences.Much like Seattle, Denver is teeming with bicyclists. Unlike Seattle, Denver is flat. I'm just sayin'. Denver also has this cool bike sharing program, Denver Bike Sharing. You can join by the hour, the day, or even the year. A whole year is just $65! There are lots of membership options. The baskets carry advertising (hey, non-profits gotta pay the bills too). It's a great idea for health reasons, environmental reasons, traffic reasons. But, come on, Colorado, we need to get helmets on riders. Make it a law already. Will that make everyone wear one? Of course not. But MORE people will wear one. I noticed a big difference between Denver and Seattle riders. Way more riders in Seattle wear helmets (it's the law).Here is the beautiful cat belonging to D & K & L. Her name is, forgive me if I get it wrong, Addie.
And here is their dog, Kopi. Very handsome.Coffee is and always will be an important part of our travels. We really like coffee and we seek out the local java joints wherever we go. We were pleased to find plenty of independent coffee options on this trip. The first is Buzz Fill'er Up Cafe just a half mile from K & D's place, our Denver hosts.The coffee was so good I thought we were having a Jesus moment once we hit the open highway. Off in the distance I swear I could see Jesus.I was right, it's Jesus. But it doesn't look like a kind, sweet Jesus. It looks like Jesus is pointing at the passing drivers, giving them a stern warning: Slow down, wear your seat-belt, don't text and drive!Kenosha Pass is just one of several mountain passes we traverse on this trip. Colorado west of Denver is all mountains. East of Denver is flat, flat, and then flat. We knew what we were doing when we planned our route. I think we got the prettier, more interesting side of the state. We wanted mountains so we really had no choice but to go west.

Kenosha Pass is 10,000 feet high in the Rocky Moutains. Route 285 takes you over it and beyond.I wish I could remember the town in which I pulled over to snap some shots of this cemetery. The graves were elaborate works of folk art and personal touches. No granite slabs here.This is a really beautiful valley. There is a turn out from the highway, a large parking area and this view. I wish I could remember what it's called.Fast forward miles and miles and here are are getting pretty close to Ouray, Colorado, one of my favorite stops on the trip. Ouray is in a beautiful valley (when you're in the mountains you see lots of valleys and it's great) and surrounded by mountains on three sides. The "Switzerland of America" but without any kitschy Swiss stuff. In Washington we have a "Bavarian" village and I think if I were Bavarian I'd be insulted. It's over the top with cornucopias painted on the Safeway and little else than beer and brauts to eat. I know it's for tourists but it's also for people who need a place to sleep on their hiking, climbing, rafting vacation.

Here is some of the pretty red rock we'd see in various parts of Colorado. Some is bright orange like this. Some is deep orange, like Native pottery.
Here is the dining room at Spangler House Bed & Breakfast. Steven and Jill are great hosts. Steven makes a delicious breakfast. We stayed here two nights and really enjoyed it.In Ouray, I felt like I was in Ouray, not Switzerland. Yes, it caters to tourists too but in a Ouray way. Two-thirds of the original Victorian buildings remain and are still used as residences and businesses. I can buy Native American pottery, bug spray, a latte, and a plate of Southwest Mexican food. Definitely eat at the Bien Tempo and get the spicy camarones. Here's a shot of the ceiling, covered in dollar bills. We watched a waitress shoot a dollar up there. You put your tack on one side of the bill pointing up. You put a magnet on the underside to keep the tack sitting on the bill. Then you fling it all toward the ceiling and it sticks.In Ouray we took a hike on the Ice Park Trail. Really nice hike. Great views. Not sure what animal this was but it made a nice meal for something.We left a rainy and chilly Seattle but on this trip we had nothing but sun and heat. Sometimes that was nice. Sometimes it wasn't. But at 7,792 feet it was really nice.Not only is it warm in Colorado, it's dry. Real dry. Hydration is key. We drank and drank and drank and were better for it. And sunscreen. Lots of that too and we used 70 SPF. No fooling around.
Aspens! S's favorite tree and Colorado has plenty of them.Here comes a thistle.

I dig lichen. I love that they can grow just about anywhere - the arctic, the desert, a toxic waste pile. They are survivors. Some are leafy, some are spongy, some are flat against where they grow, like the white one in this pic. They come in so many different colors and textures. I just dig 'em.
Wild geraniums.
OK, the black fuzzy thing is a spider. Not exactly sure which parts of it but it's a spider. When I tapped the rock it scurried into the web. I wanted to SEE the spider but couldn't coax it back out and wasn't about to destroy it's web.
Back at Spangler House, plotting our course.
Here is the resident mama deer at Spangler House. We were fortunate to see mama and her two twin fauns. They were tiny and spotted with big ears, really adorable.
She slept here for a couple of hours.
Pretty good cuppa at Mouses's Coffee & Chocolate.
Plenty of tasty sounding drinks but I stuck to my usual. I really just like a straight latte, no flavor, no sweetener. I want to taste the espresso and I want to taste the creamy, foamy milk.
Colorado's state flower is the columbine and it's everywhere. We're lucky to have them in Seattle too and plenty in our yard. They come in just about any color you can imagine. OK, so this shot is not the Colorado Blue Columbine (aquilegia caerluea), the official flower, but you get the idea.
While S was looking in a shop called The Blue Pair, I stepped into the lobby of a building next door. Check out this stamped tin ceiling.
While we were shopping in another store I spotted this cool handle on an old cabinet used as a display case.
Driving out of Ouray with the San Juan Mountains to gaze upon. Not at all a bad way to start the day.
Ah, more coffee. This day we are in the tony ski town, Telluride. We tried to ride the gondola but missed it by, literally, one spot. We were next in line watching the folks ahead of us try to cram the whole family and two small dogs into the moving gondola car before it took off from the platform when the attendant got a message on his radio - no more rides - gondola closed. ?? No reason was given and no estimated time of re-opening. So we walked around and found Between The Covers. Books and coffee in the mountains? Pinch me.
Our destination this day was Crested Butte. We'll have coffee there soon. In the meantime, we hiked in the tiny ghost town of Gothic, just north of Crested Butte. Gothic is basically a giant outdoor laboratory, home to the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory. You can spot experiments of one kind or another here and there in a field. The small general store has cool t-shirts (of course, I bought one) with various prints of critters. I love to buy t-shirts (got 3 on this trip) and I want to help support the lab.
Gothic is at 9,485 feet so we took it slowly on our hike. Just more time to enjoy the surroundings. The local foxes aren't too shy of people. Just outside a house and right under the badminton net this fox was stalking breakfast.
Not bad, huh?

More aspens.
I like bugs, what can I say? These ants were BIG and had striped butts. They were really groovin' on the bud of this plant. Not sure if that's helpful to the plant or not.
This chipmunk sat frozen in this tree until I was just a couple feet from it.
Now that's a view!
This marmot squeaked at us as we approached. Well, maybe he didn't squeak at us but he squeaked loudly. It's a piercing sound. Notice the marking on his back. I played with the exposure on this photo to enhance it.
Back in Crested Butte we explored the streets. Loved his giant buddha outside a small restaurant. And around the corner from the buddha? Coffee!One side of the building housing the coffee shop is covered in license plates.Camp 4 Coffee had what we needed.From Crested Butte we mad a long haul to Glenwood Springs. Along thw way we drove through Black Canyon of The Gunnison National Monument on the North rim (CO highway 92). Spectacular. There aren't many places to pull over but the link will take you to the National Parks site and you can see some dramatic shots. We did stop at this pull-out for lunch to take advantage of the covered picnic area.Hey, finally in Glenwood Springs. This area is known for its hot springs. Here is the main hot springs joint and the pool.Another shot, this one including I-70. If you click on the photo to enlarge it, you can probably see all the construction going on. What a nice treat on this already narrow and twisty highway. Once you are past the construction, it's a pretty ride through this canyon.Hey, Washington, even Colorado has medical marijuana.We weren't crazy about Glenwood Springs but we did find a Sacred Grounds coffee shop with free computer access right across the street from a good book store.About eleven miles south of Glenwood Springs is Carbondale and we really liked this town. Found really good grub at Eco Goddess Edibles. I had this: and it was delicious. S had the egg salad. I never think to get egg salad because I'm always afraid it will be really dull. This wasn't dull. Those focaccia breads really hit the spot too. Hey, in a flash we are back in Denver at Denver Museum of Nature and Science. This is diorama heaven! Here is the nice view of City Park and the Denver skyline.
Dig the totems.
Now we are at the Cherry Creek Fresh Market (farmers market) eating the veggie and goat cheese tart. And that's the end of the photos. I really pared it down to make this relatively quick to view in one setting. For that same reason I didn't write much. Just wanted to post some pics and nail down some highlights of the trip. It was a lot of fun. We had good hosts, good food, good hikes and scenic views. Next week we hit the Olympic Peninsula for an early birthday celebration (my birthday).

A Tale of Two Peninsulas

2010-07-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday our adventure took us to Seabeck, Washington on the Kitsap Peninsula and Quilcene, Washington on the Olympic Peninsula. We began in Seabeck to meet up with D & G at their home. D & J met us there too and the six of us headed to Quilcene for an afternoon of music. But not before a delicious picnic supplied by our hosts, D & G.
They spoiled us all day and it began with the picnic on the grounds of the Olympic Music Festival. If you haven't been to a concert in the barn yet, make sure you make time for it this year. The season began yesterday and runs to August 22. After a which included roasted red peppers, cheese, salami, asparagus wrapped in prosciutto, bread, red quinoa salad, broccoli salad, macaroni salad, Ranier cherries, and a nice bottle of rosé.
The program we saw was:

REMEMBRANCES

DEBUSSY: Suite Bergamasque
SCHUMANN: Kinderszenen, Op.15, Scenes of Childhood
MOZART: Adagio in B Minor, K. 540
GRIEG: From Lyric Pieces

Paul Hersh, Piano

You can watch the performance from inside or outside the barn. There is an upper level too.During intermission we took a nice walk around the grounds.I had to record the fact that the sun shone upon us, if only for a little while.If you're worried you might make an ass of yourself, hang out where asses are already in residence. Back in Seabeck at D & G's place we were spoiled again. Their house is on Hood Canal. Down on the beach I found plenty of interesting colors, shapes, and critters.Inside the house there was a buffet of wine (For the record, just two of these bottles were opened before dinner and then two others opened during dinner.). Before dinner we nibbled on cheeses, nuts, and crackers while we sipped the vino.I couldn't resist this warped shot of me and S in the light above the table.
For dinner G prepared a beautiful piece of salmon on his new grill. Perfection. We also had corn and a wonderful salad. By the way, beside the food and the music there was actually plenty of good conversation. D & G are wonderful hosts. Soon we will host them. But G can bring the wine.

Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop

2010-05-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

Today we explored half of the 6 mile Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop. Not sure why Seattle Parks and Recreation spells the name of this Duwamish chief differently than the Duwamish spell it on their tribal web site. However, this loop is a great urban walk covering several neighborhoods. Along the way we explored a P-Patch, a handful of the thirty-five total pocket parks along the loop, residential neighborhoods, commercial complexes and industrial business areas. Noisy to quiet. Pretty to grimy. Everything in between.
Here is the Eastlake P-Patch. The gardeners here know what they are doing. It's a patch tended as a labor of love and has several pieces of handmade art and folkie craft items.
Here be rusted chain dragons.
I do love bugs and critters.
Perfect use for toy soldiers and such.

Plenty of beautiful flowers along this walk (barring any industrial areas).
Nope, not a neglected bike, just a cool piece of garden art.
I'm a sucker for tiles.

Came across a couple of beautiful plants with these lovely tiny flowers. Each was very similar in appearance (above ground) to an allium like a leek or garlic.
Another pocket park. Each one had a name but I can't remember off hand the name of this one. We had a printed map which named each park but it's upstairs and I'm downstairs - so there. I should add that this loop is very well marked by easy to spot blue signs to guide Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop walkers.
Again, a sucker for tiles.

House boats can be found in several places on Lake Union.
We could see a few adult geese and these goslings up ahead on the sidewalk but we had no option (other than to swim around the buildings) but to slowly approach and just quietly walk past. The adults hissed but we expected that. The goslings just scurried away in a group and re-huddled a few feet from their original resting spot. Here is a quick video.
At the south end of the lake is the Center For Wooden Boats. We were able to walk all around the boardwalks and check out the boats up close.
I liked the different colored little boats. All in all this is a great urban walk. Next week we might do the other half. After that we'll take on the whole thing. On our walk back to the car, we took Eastlake instead of Fairview (which you are on the whole time on this side of the lake) so we could stop in and rest our feet and re-fuel at Grand Central Bakery. Pretty good lattes. Didn't try the food but it looked good.

Does This Fridge Pack Make My Butt Look Big?

2010-05-21T17:10:00.000-07:00

Earth Hour Almost Here

2010-03-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

I hope you are participating in Earth Hour. Many of you already have, I'm later posting about it. It's really simple. Just turn off your lights for hour beginning at 8:30 pm wherever you are. If you can't do it at 8:30, do it whenever you can. In fact, do it every day, whenever you can. And always keep your lights off when you aren't using them.

Tonight I'll light some candles and listen to my hand-crank radio for an hour. Or I'll call a friend on my cell phone. Or do pilates. Or just close my eyes and enjoy the silence of no electronics. I'll post again when I turn on the lights again.I made this lantern on the Earth Hour web site.

Coastal Get-Away

2010-02-11T18:29:00.001-08:00

A weekend trip to Manzanita, OR recently allowed us some breathing room. Work has been crazy busy. School is challenging. And life is hectic. But the ocean is perfect. Enjoy these photos and wish you were there. For pics and info on what to eat and where to shop, check this out. In regard to coffee, because we don't go far or long without it, we hit Manzanita News & Espresso. I've been to this coffee shop in the past and I've always wanted to return. The baked goods floating around Manzanita are out of this world. You can also get hand-made coffee mugs from local artists and such a variety of interesting magazines. Not at all your typical newsstand.

Your seat cushion is not a floatation device

2009-12-23T06:44:00.001-08:00

Emailing from cruising altitude at 6:36 am. Virgin America and Google are offering free in-flight WiFi for the holidays. Should be an uneventful trip. We've been up since 2 am and we're in a daze. But I can see the first signs of light out the window.
Current details and conditions.

Adventures a la Turk

2009-12-19T09:53:00.000-08:00

We ran off to Turkey for two weeks on a Rick Steves tour - Turkey in 13 Days. I've been planning a trip to Turkey since I met Edna while on the Rick Steves Barcelona tour in 2004. Edna told all of these great stories of her lifetime of traveling with her husband. She told stories of when she and her family did the Turkey tour. She had me at merhaba (that’s hello).

Please visit our Turkey vacation blog, Adventures a la Turk. There are two weeks worth of photos, videos, stories, and links on the blog I’ve created dedicated to our Turkey trip.

If you don’t visit Adventures a la Turk you will never get to read my essay on using the squatty potty. You won’t learn how to make gözleme at home. You won’t see the Rose Valley from a hot air balloon or a ninth century church carved out of volcanic rock and covered in frescoes. You will miss plenty.

Enjoy!

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

2009-12-09T08:07:00.000-08:00

I know we aren't getting tons of snow like what is hammering folks in the Mid-West, but this is cold and we don't like it. It's colder still in other parts of th greater Puget Sound area. Put on the kettle and pull on a sweater.

Live from my G1!

Foam On The Range

2009-12-07T16:56:00.000-08:00

It's really cold here. Dipping into the 20's at night. Today we reached a high of 30, I think. Lows will be in the teens around us. Same for tomorrow. Granted, it's bright and sunny. But we're cold!

The foam on my latte reminded me of the pile of snow on our porch table last December. Oh, if only latte foam fell from the sky when it snowed.

Don't Sit So Close - It'll Ruin Your Eyes

2009-11-12T17:27:00.000-08:00

Misu is a smart cat. I think it's because I only allow her to watch educational programming on the computer and no TV.
She really enjoyed this episode of The Rest of Everest.

Rainy Day Nap (cats only)

2009-11-07T14:49:00.001-08:00

Hey, might be moving over to WordPress. Still learning the ropes. No decision has been made yet. In the meantime, check out my first official post at the WordPress bodanzarama.

What do you think?

Who will die first...

2009-11-02T14:58:00.001-08:00

Before I post again? Hard to say. Summer was gone in a flash. And we are recently back from two weeks in Turkey. I'm working feverishly to edit, sort, arrange about 3,ooo shots into a manageable 300 or so for a blog dedicated to the trip. I'm also gathering info and facts and memories. Labor intensive but a labor of love. In the meantime, I will post a few entertaining shots like this one from my last trip to the grocery store.

Live from my G1!

Change of Seasons

2009-09-27T20:26:00.000-07:00

This morning, around 7 am, from the balcony of our hotel room.

Orcas Island Jaunt

2009-09-27T15:13:00.001-07:00

We just got home earlier today from an overnight trip to Orcas Island. The weather was and is great. Today is sunny and in the 60s. A very nice way to begin Autumn. Yesterday we hit the road relatively early to drive to Anacortes to catch the 10:05 am ferry. The ferry stops at Lopez Island and Shaw Island before it drops us at Orcas Island.

Here is the view from the Orcas Hotel, our home for the evening. And this was also our view from our room, just one flight higher. Our room had a balcony. We sat out for a while, watching the ferries come and go and listening to the seagulls argue.

We've stayed in this hotel before. It's old and charming. The pics on the website are quite flattering. Not that it isn't nice, but it's old and creaky, and doesn't look quite as fresh and new as the website. The walls are cardboard thin. Last night was proof. Think of the Paul Simon song, Duncan -

"Couple in the next room
Bound to win a prize..."

I had to leave on the bathroom fan in order to get any sleep at all. We cruised around the Eastsound Farmer's Market. I picked up two varieties of hand-made soap. S grabbed a fresh raw oyster for an on-the-go snack. For the rest of lunch we headed to Olga to eat at Cafe Olga.

Here we are on top of Mount Constitution in Moran State Park. What a view. You can see Mt. Baker clearly. So many islands are visible from this point Lummi Island, Sinclair Island, Cypress Island, Blakely Island, to name a few.
On the ferry back to Anacortes, we had a primo spot in the very front, one of the three front row cars. Of course, for 2/3 of the trip we rode backwards. But we still had excellent views. Here is Mt. Baker again, as seen from our spot on board the Yakima.

Not Too Far Get-A-Way

2009-07-26T16:54:00.001-07:00

We wanted to get away but not too away. We wanted to see some water but didn't want to deal with the long ferry lines. We didn't want to be gone all day. We headed to Camano Island State Park located on, well, Camano Island. This is the very first place I ever went camping. J. K. and A. C. and I camped overnight and I spent a very uncomfortable night in the back of a pick-up truck. But we had fun.
S and I left around 8:30 in the morning, stopped in the U-District for coffee, stopped again for a snack and a potty break. We hit the beach by 10:45. We snagged a picnic table at the very end of the beach. We had the place to ourselves. I was looking for pictures and critters and interesting things. I found lots of color and texture. For example, this poor starfish. Looks like he got caught up in the tide and couldn't find a hiding spot. He's upside down, by the way. But this is how I found him.
We had a picnic lunch of yummy things like olives, roasted peppers, hummus, dolmas, blueberries, and some dark chocolate for dessert.

Before we left we spotted a couple bald eagles. This is as close as I could get but you get the idea.

Time Stands Still

2009-07-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

This day is crawling. Just not moving. Sutck in time.

Far Out

2009-07-06T19:49:00.000-07:00

Low tides reveal the best of Puget Sound. At Discovery Park on Sunday we were able to walk far out onto the mud flats. Above is Z, H, M, and S strolling to the next cluster of rocks to explore.

We found wonderful critters along the way but the lure of seaweed was too strong for M. She was completely captivated by it.

Garden Color

2009-06-28T21:34:00.000-07:00

This garden spider was sun bathing before I began watering the nearby tomatoes. As soon as the sprinkles of water began to fall, he ran for cover.

There is always something blooming in the yard. The poppies are gone but we have daisies and dahlias and Cupid's Dart.

Icicle River Gorge - Go Cougs!

2009-06-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

Over Memorial Day weekend we headed to Leavenworth in order to be close to some great hikes. We're not necessarily fans of Leavenworth, but it's the jumping off point for so many great outdoor adventures that you have to suck it up and stay there.

We're not interested in souveneir shops or grilled brauts and beer so we went walking along the river the first evening in town. Here is a shot of the Wenatchee River from some rocks along its bank.
On the drive to the trailhead at the Chatter Creek Ranger Station the scenery is stunning. We would soon discover the road was washed-out about two miles from our destination. A bad storm last winter had resulted in the river changing course - right over the road. We would park not too far from the Ida Creek Campground and walk and extra hour along a make-shift trail to meet up with the road again and eventually the trailhead.
Here is the Icicle River raging along. It was disdurbing once we reached the "end of the road" to see this raging river running across the road. And it was a bit eerie to see water up in what was last winter the woods that run along the road.

But the most disturbing, but very exciting, part of the whole extra hour trek to the trailhead was the spotting of A REAL, LIVE COUGAR!!!!! Yep, only about 15 minutes into the hike, S declares, "Oh, my god look!" I look at her then look in the direction of where she is looking and caught the second half of the cougar as it walked into the woods, in the opposite direction of the road about 20 yards ahead of us. S indicated that the animal never looked our way, just sauntered from the roadside of the trail to the woods side. The long thick tail was unmistakable and the large paws are better viewed form a distance as far as I'm concered. A once in a lifetime sighting we have been told by many who hear this story.

I have to admit, I was especially uneasy for a while after the cougar crossed our path. As we crossed the section of trail where it crossed, I was particularly uneasy and was sure to make plenty of noise. Most distressing was the fact that this particular section of trail was very muddy so I was obliged to watch my feet and where I placed them rather than watch the woods where the cougar was probably sitting and smirking at us, hoping one of us might slip in the mire and become bogged down, unable to escape. As we continued to hike I became more excited about the sighting and less afraid.
Finally at the trailhead! From the road you quickly descend to this bridge to cross the river and begin the loop.
Some Indian Paintbrush.

The raging Icicle River.
Beautiful trillium.
The second amazing sighting of the day was the calypso orchid. You might easily step on it or overlook it. The first one we saw was just that, a single flower. We felt really lucky to have spotted it at all.
As we continued to hike, we noticed a few more, growing in small clusters. I wouldn't say we saw lots but we saw a handful of clusters. Considering how much ground we covered on this hike, we didn't see many. They really like very specific conditions and a particular soil fungus.
They stand only a few inches tall. A co-worker had tipped me off to look for these and I had forgot about them completely until I spotted one. My co-worker also told me to get down on the ground in order to appreciate the flowers subtle smell. Although I was near enough to photograph the flower up close, I completely forgot to test if it carries a scent.
Part of my head, some pines and some mountain as seen by S's sunglasses.
This is one of the best hikes we've done. Really spectacular. Very beautiful. Ponderosa pines, trillium, calypso orchids, some really odd fungi, blue skies, raging river, a great meadow, little elevation change, and countless opportunities to sit and watch the world go by. We would do this hike again even with the extra mileage to get to and from the trailhead to our car.
You can spot S hiking across the bridge. That fallen tree is leading the way.
This ponderosa pine, S's favorite tree, looks like it's leaning over to tell her a secret. Next time you are around ponderosas and the sun has warmed their bark, get up close and smell the woody vanilla scent that comes off the tree.

Memorial Day Cat

2009-05-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

TJ technically belongs to K & R across the street. The house next door to them used to belong to TJ's original owners. When they moved, for whatever reason, they didn't take TJ. K & R adopted him bringing their total to three boy cats. TJ roams the 'hood, aided by a cat door and a keen sense of where the cat treats (the the humans who dispense them) are to be found. He visits daily, usually once in the morning and once after we are home form work. He has the run of our place, of course. He gets treats, affection, a cat scratcher, catnip, a place to crash, etc. Today he decided to keep S company while she worked in the yard. He was here for hours and will probably return later in the day after his cat-napping is complete.

Discovery Park

2009-05-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

A recent shot of a walk down to the beach at Discovery Park. As we walked along the beach (away from the lighthouse and the crowds), the tide rolled out. We were able to wade out into the very cold water and explore the various critters and rocks and shells. Managed to get a bit of a sun burn on my arms. What a great day.

Waitin' For The Bus

2009-05-15T08:40:00.001-07:00

Live from my G1!

Discovery Park

2009-05-08T19:58:00.000-07:00

A few basic shots of a recent walk in Discovery Park. Get outside!

Fisherman's Wharf

2009-03-12T10:58:00.001-07:00

A quick clip of two sea lions vying for the same piece of prime real estate at Pier 39.

2009-02-24T15:29:00.000-08:00

Here is a string of short clips from two walks, one at Lincoln Park and one along Alki. The walks were taken a week apart but on lucky sunny days. After the wind and rain of this morning, I thought watching these clips would bring me back to those two days.

A Cat That Makes House Calls

2009-02-01T12:06:00.000-08:00

T.J. belongs to our neighbors K & R. But he likes to make visits. He used to live next door to K & R but when his owners moved, they couldn't take him. K & R adopted him though they already had two cats. So T.J. visits the house where he used to live and he visits us too. A very friendly and welcoming triangle for him. He's always wanted to come inside but Stripe wasn't at all interested in that idea. After she passed away, we said we'd let him in next time he stopped by. Now he comes in at least a couple of times a week. Last night we had to actually put him out because it was nearing 11 and we were already way past our bedtime. Besides, we no longer have a litter box set up and there is no cat door here like at K & R's place. These are some shots I took earlier in the week. I love the last one because I've caught him right in the middle of a catnip sneeze.

Walking Back From Cafe Campagne

2009-01-31T09:54:00.001-08:00

The Happy Hour at Cafe Campagne was great. I've posted a shot on feed yourself.

Live from my G1!

Where I Come From...

2009-01-28T11:59:00.001-08:00

We call this a sweater.

Live from my G1!

Remembering Last Weekend's Sunshine

2009-01-25T20:22:00.000-08:00

Today was frosty. We saw light snow flurries but nothing serious. I remembered that I shot a few minutes of video from a walk in Lincoln park last weekend when the sun shone and the temps rose (out of the 30's). Here is a quick look at a pair of bald eagles we spotted. I love seeing them. Granted, bald eagles in the PNW aren't so uncommon and one can even spot them in the city. But seeing them always amazes me and I take the time to enjoy seeing them. So many species disappear all the time that I want to savor the ones I can see when I see them.

Stripe

2008-12-28T21:07:00.001-08:00

Stripe was the best, sweetest, most loveable feline. We had to let her go tonight. We miss her. We love her.

SNow Day Looking Brighter

2008-12-22T08:32:00.000-08:00

The snow has stopped and there is actually sun trying to come out. Here is a brief shot of the snow table. Stay warm.

Snow Day

2008-12-22T05:27:00.000-08:00

No work today - officially! Here is where the snow was before I went to bed. Nine inches. As I type and wait for the coffee to brew, we are at ten inches. By the way, it's still snowing.

Let It Snow

2008-12-21T20:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the local kids were out all day and into the night. It's been that way since Thursday. As I type they are out there testing the new snow ramp. This one is bigger than any before it. It's still snowing. The ruler sticking in the snow on the patio table is buried to just over eight inches. Here are a couple more clips.

First Video Posts

2008-12-18T13:55:00.003-08:00

Because I'm home from work today (though I actually did work from home), I shot brief video clips of the local youths sledding and snowboarding/tubing down our street.

Just after 12 pm

2008-12-18T13:55:00.001-08:00

Twice as much and still snowing.

Live from my G1!

Another snowfall

2008-12-18T08:20:00.001-08:00

Live from my G1!

Snow and ice Saturday morning

2008-12-15T08:14:00.001-08:00

Register

2008-12-15T07:55:00.001-08:00

Cruising Around Portland...

2008-11-30T20:20:00.000-08:00

I snapped a few shots with my G1. On the road, at the farmer's market on the PSU campus, and at the Saturday Market under the Burnside Bridge.

Skagit Valley Rainbow

2008-11-13T11:52:00.000-08:00

The rain took a break and the sun came in and out while we walked up and down the streets of La Connor for the Arts Alive events last Saturday. Saw plenty of wonderful pieces, explored the quilt museum, had a great lunch. Spotted this rainbow on the ride home. I was driving and as soon as I saw it I spun the car around and jumped out. Notice some of the rainbow reflected in the puddles in the field. And there is a very faint double rainbow to the far right of the main one. We were in the right place at the right time.

Discovery Park

2008-10-18T20:59:00.000-07:00

The last two weekends the weather has been completely agreeable. Crisp air with temps still pushing 60 degrees. The sun was not shy either. We headed to Discovery Park. The housework can wait - when the weather calls we go! Here are three shots from two different weekends.This bluff is always eroding. Just a few years ago, there was as much bluff beyond those wood posts as behind them. Those are the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
The autumn colors are just past their prime but still beautiful
Near the beginning of the hike, as we descend to the bluff.

Snoqualmie River Middle Fork Trail

2008-08-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday temps rose above 90. But the lure of hiking was too great so we headed to the Snoqualmie River on the Middle Fork Trail. We arrived early to beat as much heat as we could and to beat the crowds. We had better luck with the crowds.

We chose this hike in large part because very little of it is in direct sun. the heat (and a fair amount of humidity), however, had the upper hand.Almost as soon as you begin you cross this beautiful bridge. Not a soul was stirring on the way out but on the way back several people were just below us fishing.S makes her way along a switchback.
Yikes. This was no Forest Service chainsaw. Wind or lightning caused this split.
Because we were still on the west side of the Cascades, the forest is green and mossy. About a mile and a half into the hike we found ourselves under the gaze of Stegosaurus Butte.
Someone with more time and energy created several cairns during their time spent along the Snoqualmie. We just sat and ate and enjoyed the cool breeze and rushing water.

We were happy to spot the bridge on our hike back. We were tired and hot and out of water and ready to be in the car. It's a great hike but we'll be back when temps are about 20 degrees cooler. I think this will be a great hike in another month. We'll be back.

Sammamish River Trail

2008-08-11T15:58:00.000-07:00

Sunday we returned to the Sammamish River Trail(SRT). We had been once before a week prior but wanted to go further. The SRT is a paved multi-use trail running from Bothell to Marymoor Park in Redmond. Like the Green River Trail, this trail runs 10.9 miles along, you guessed it, the Sammamish River. The Burke-Gilman trail connects to the SRT near Blyth Park in Bothell. We started near Wayne Golf Course around 96th Ave. NE and headed east all the way to the end of the SRT in Redmond. We made it a bit passed NE 90th. I couldn't find a name for the little park in which this Native house replica pictured above is being built.

I didn't get a chance to shoot too many photos and the trail was more crowded than I prefer. Next time we'll get an earlier start. We put in a very respectable 20.21 miles round trip, our new personal best. This included a short stop at Redhook Brewery for lunch. Also close to the trail are the Columbia Winery and Chateau St. Michelle Winery. However, our attire and our appearance was more suited for Redhook. Plus, there is always a large crowd of cyclists there so helmet hair and dusty legs don't turn any heads. Four huge dragonflies greet you, two at either end, when you pedal off the trail and onto a short bridge that leads to The Herb Farm and Redhook.
Nearly tame rabbits hang out in the brush by the parking lot at the Sammamish River Park. This rabbit was spread out in the cool dirt to beat the heat.
The are around the little parking lot at the same park is home to at least a dozen roosters, all of whom try to out crow this guy. He was definitely the loudest.

For the record, that's iced-tea in my glass. As good as a cold beer sounded, I knew I needed real fluids. Water for sure and a bit of caffeine as a compromise.

Hiking on The Iron Horse Trail

2008-08-07T10:27:00.000-07:00

A recent hike along the Iron Horse Trail near Snoqualmie Pass along the I-90 corridor. We started at the Hyak Sno-Park where we cross country skied in '07. From this point most folks head west so they can hike/bike through the old tunnel. We headed east to avoid the crowds of cyclists and the tunnel. A short tunnel is fine but this one is over two miles long - in the dark. Granted, we could wear our headlamps. But the novelty would wear out long before two miles.

We had the trail to ourselves with the exception of some cyclists now and then. It was quiet. It was sunny. It was hot. On I-90 there are large electric message boards providing road conditions and such. The message board indicated the temperature at 67 degrees. But it was certainly hotter than that on the trail.

Spotted some beautiful columbines.

Lake Keechelus is huge. You drive along it on I-90 and during some points of the year the water level is low. This reveals hundreds of tree stumps usually hidden under the water.
The trail is flat but gravel. After a while the gravel get to your feet, especially your toes. It's really nice to find a couple of potty stops along the way. One is brand-spanking new, still in the process of being painted. By far the cleanest pit toilet I've used. It services a walk-in camp sites. We stopped there and snacked at a picnic table in the shade.

Brilliant orange lillies.
Similar shots from two different seasons.
A couple more from a cross-country ski trip in January '07.

Lake Keechelus under snow.

Western Tanager

2008-07-31T07:55:00.000-07:00

These aren't great photos but this male Western Tanager didn't stick around long. He had a female companion but she was very shy. His brilliant colors really stood out against our pine tree. But I was shooting through a picture window (which could use a wash) and didn't have time to do anything but point and shoot. Still, he's a beautiful bird.

The I.D. Revisited - Briefly

2008-07-30T07:04:00.000-07:00

This past weekend friends M & A stayed a couple nights with us while making there way back down from the Canadian San Juans to their home in Oakland. We spent a relaxing afternoon strolling through the International District.

A visit to the International District should include certain things. Visit a bakery. There are several. We've been to Piece of Cake in the past and love the red bean cakes and rolls. Not pictured are the rolls in which they stuff red bean paste rather than run it through the rolled up pastry like pictured. There are more sweets than savories here but I'm never disappointed. They also sell breads and cookies packaged up on big shelves. I always salivate over those shelves but buying one item from the case helps with portion control - a very difficult discipline in the I.D.
Gotta wash down the red bean rolls with something. We headed to Oasis Tea Zone for bubble tea. There's bound to be a flavor or style you like here. This day I had a coconut milk tea with tapioca. Mmmmmmm.
S tries to decide on a book in the cavernous Elliot Bay Book Co..
We discover a glass works store and stop to watch glass blowers at work creating wonderful pieces.

It was really hot just standing next to the room. I don't know how these guys could take that heat that was actually pouring from the room. There was on floor fan but I hardly think it did much.

Me-Kwa-Mooks Park Revelations

2008-07-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

My plans to go explore the tide pools on the Kitsap Peninsula as part of my birthday weekend fell through, way through, to the other side of the planet. I would not be denied, however, and found refuge in the very low tides at Me-Kwa-Mooks Park along Beach Dr. So I got my fix of mucking about in the sand and squish looking for critters and other such specimens. S didn't feel the need to slime up her Keens so she soaked up the sun on a bench up high while I gingerly stepped from soggy mass to encrusted rock, bending here, squatting there, peering under rocks (which I immediately and delicately replaced after observing the tiny eco systems living beneath), and swishing aside various forms of water flora to get a better look what might lie beneath. That was swell of her to wait for me. She was with me in more than spirit but not in slime and that was OK. It was nice that she hung out close by so I could share my discoveries.

I discovered plenty. Here are a few shots of the critters I spotted. I love that I can spend time exploring tidal life only yards from someone's house. Well, I can't say that I love it. Maybe I feel really lucky that this sort of nature is available to me but I do prefer to explore it in a more remote setting. You can read a bit more about the park in the West Seattle Herald.
Usually you see plenty of dead crab parts and sometimes, but dead and empty, crabs. This one, however, was very much alive and full and wasn't budging. Just waiting for that tide to come back in and carry him to safety, far from the seagulls. And below you can see some of the growth process of the barnacles found everywhere.

This is the view from where S sat and waited. Two other curious tidal explorers can be seen.

I followed this hermit crab for a while. As soon as I picked it up it retreated into the shell.
The main bodies of each of these two crabs were about the size of a quarter. Neither was in a mood to be picked up so all I did was snap pics. I like their colors.

Walk Six Miles - Get Pastry

2008-07-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

Walking to the farmer's market on Sunday is quite respectable at 6 miles round trip. Let's not forget the hills that go UP on the way home. This week we treated ourselves to goods from flying apron bakery. Vegan, wheat and gluten-free and drop dead delicious! Don't let the vegan part fool you, these are baked goods. Eat them sparingly. However, you won't find butter, lard, shortening, etc. so that is healthier than conventional pastry. I also don't see any refined white sugar in these two items either. Another plus.

The point - go up to the U-District to their bakery or catch them at a farmer's market. Really good stuff.

Ginger Wheels
organic brown rice flour, organic garbanzo bean flour, organic rice milk, organic evaporated cane juice, organic safflower oil, organic molasses, organic ginger, organic cocoa powder, organic cinnamon, organic cloves, aluminum-free baking powder, sea salt

Apricot Thumbprints
organic brown rice flour, organic garbanzo bean flour, organic safflower oil, organic rice milk, organic evaporated cane juice, organic Turkish apricots, organic lemon juice, pure vanilla extract, baking powder, sea salt

A Quick Run to Uwajimaya

2008-07-21T11:44:00.000-07:00

Going to Uwajimaya is like going to an amusement park of Asian food.Got Miso? Need Pocky?
Bubble tea at Oasis across the street to energize before walking back to the opposite end of downtown.

Biking the Green River Trail

2008-07-17T16:40:00.001-07:00

This summer I got a bike. I haven't had a bike since I was in Junior High/High School. The bike is a basic hybrid, built for comfort, but with plenty of gears to get me up and down the Seattle topography. Seattle is a great place to learn about bikes. Plenty of bike shops and folks who live to bike. I'm not sure I will ever be one of those folks (I'm a pedestrian/hiker to the core) but I'm really enjoying the bike. Check out this metal sculpture of three cyclists. I look just like this when I ride.

We've been riding on the Green River Trail lately. It's 19 miles of paved trail with little change in elevation because it follows, you guessed it, the Green River. The trail winds through industrial parkways, neighborhoods, and the backsides of shopping centers. But there are plenty of parks, potties and picnic tables along the way. On any given day you might see Great Blue Herons skulking around in the river, or rabbits hopping in and out of the blackberry bushes. It's a great trail for bird watching and bird listening. Wildflowers, butterflies and dragonflies too. It's great that there is so much flora and fauna tucked between generic looking office buildings and resource sapping golf courses. You might even spot an osprey. The light was really bad on this particular day but still, it's an osprey.
You're never sure what you might see. Along the way you can spot affordable waterfront property. This one comes with some appliances.
Technically, the GRT begins at Cecil Moses Memorial Park and we've begun the trail there in the past. But I prefer to begin further south at Bicentennial Park in Tukwila. From here to the Riverbend Golf Complex in Kent you're pushing 15 miles round trip and that's pretty respectable as far as I'm concerned. And this ride is much more scenic than the stretch between Cecil Moses Park and Bicentennial Park. The golf course is a good place to turn around but you can certainly go farther on the GRT then hook up with the Interurban Trail and ride all the way to Auburn. Someday. I'm new to biking and I'll get there little by little.Crossing the river to the west side because of the detour. This is looking south. This is the second bridge between our starting point and the golf course.
Looking north, in the direction the river flows.
I was traveling lightly this day, only carrying a Nikon Coolpix in the pocket of my cargo shorts.
I think this is going to be a bountiful blackberry route in another 4-6 weeks.
Heading back to the GRT, looking to the east side of the river.
Yes, a beaver dam. I did catch sight of a beaver on one trip. Clearly, there's more than one.
Total distance traveled (in kilometers) as recorded by my Cateye Enduro 8 cyclometer, an early birthday present from S. A very good ride.

Oregon Country Fair

2008-07-16T17:24:00.001-07:00

Finally made it to the Oregon Country Fair. It's very similar to the Solstice Parade only MUCH bigger. It was really different, as fairs go. Everyone was really, really nice. No one pushing or shoving or saying things under their breath. The weather was very hot and sunny but most of the fair is shaded! I was very surprised and very happy about that. The setting is very pretty with parts of the grounds running along a river. Many of the merchants have been at the fair for years and have permanent stalls. Many merchants have built tree-house like structures over the stalls and they live up there for the few days of the fair.

Five of us (Me, S, K, A and N) piled into the car for the 12 mile ride from Eugene to Veneta. Only $5 to park all day. Things at the fair are surprisingly organized. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. After all, this is the 39th year for this event. Still, sometimes you get to a fairgrounds and it's just bedlam. But this was great.

By the way, when in Eugene, stop in at Allann Bros. Coffee on 5th. We hit it both days we were in town.There was so much good food at the fair. Had delicious falafel that wasn't dry and bitter. Had wonderful juice drinks.
Had a decadent dessert dish of coconut ice cream on top of sweet, sticky rice. One is all you need until next year's fair. Very rich. Shared a Frisco Chicken sandwich which is one of the must haves if you go. Saw more stilt walkers in one place than ever before. Nabbed a couple of cool t-shirts. Visited with M & A, old friends of S who help run a tie-dye booth.

I've included some general shots. My personal people shots will remain personal. Not everyone likes to be on the Internet.

I'd like to go next year and plan on attending some of the classes and staying for some of the shows.

This is why you need to wear sunscreen.

Fremont Solstice Parade

2008-06-22T20:41:00.001-07:00

Some shots from the Fremont Solstice Parade. No clever captions. No rhyme or reason to photos. Just shots of some of the stuff I saw from life-sized bugs to art cars covered in dentures.

I THINK I NEED ONE OF THOSE ERGONOMIC KEYBOARDS

2008-06-10T07:25:00.001-07:00

This one just doesn't seem to fit. Makes my wrists hurt.

One Is The Loneliest Number...

2008-06-02T15:56:00.000-07:00

if you are growing strawberries. This one almost squeaked by but S has a sharp eye for strawberries. This is the only one so far. There aren't even others that are ripening so we found a real anomaly. Of course, we split it. It was delicious.

Garden Growth

2008-05-28T06:31:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we worked hard in the yard. Sunday I hauled, dumped, mixed and distributed soil mix to grow tomatoes, winter and sumer squash and a few various potted plants around the yard. Tomatoes will live in lovely big cedar containers, each with nasturtiums for company and to draw the aphids. Those cala lillies practically grow out from underneath the house. Monday there was more weeding and more planting early in the morning before the rain started. Yesterday S mowed the lawn and laid drip irrigation throughout the yard. That project continues later - we ran out of garden staples. Garden work never seems to end but it's fun. I suppose it's not suppose to end. The garden is a dynamic entity. It would all have to be dead to stop. That would be awful. When I think of how things looked a year ago I'm amazed and delighted with the work we have done. And "firing" the landscape crew was the best move.
While I worked the dirt, S weeded and weeded and weeded and planted all sorts of great plants to fill in where some were removed due to age or failure to grow. Here is the little veggie patch, home to peas and beans, broccoli, beets, chard (I hope), arugula, baby bok choi, turnips, etc. A nice patch of moss roses to the right of the veggies. To think that I pruned these brutally two months ago. When they die back I will prune again and again.
Wonderful geraniums have bloomed.
This little ladybug has a big droplet of water on its head.
Poppies are still a bit shy but wear the dew well.

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

2008-05-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

This was my third time to the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge and I never tire of it. It's like a get-away but it's only an hour and 15 minutes from home. What a great walk around the 5.5 mile trail. You will travel through riparian forest, then along the Nisqually River, then to the mudflats of the Nisqually Delta and so on. The weather was great. There was a breeze to help ease the slight humidity that came with the heat. We saw plenty of critters, got a great walk, had a good lunch while admiring the Olympics and spotting eagles and herons with the binoculars. Spotted this young deer through the grasses. Afterwards we headed north to Belfair for dinner with A & A at their beach house on Hood Canal. After that it was a bit of a drive back to Southworth, an hour wait for a ferry, then a stop at Vashon Is. before getting back to Fauntleroy. Luckily, we only minutes from the ferry terminal. A long but wonderful day.

Saw plenty of these delicate dragonflies. And the wildflowers were blooming everywhere.

As we ate lunch, we spotted herons and eagles over the mudflats of the Nisqually Delta. The Olympics make a scenic back drop.

Off in the distance we could just make out the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.

Mama duck and her eleven ducklings. Watch out for the herons!

Keep away from the ducklings, heron.

Frogs know how to hide and they really love the slimy stuff.

Less (snow) Is More (Spring?)

2008-05-22T09:27:00.000-07:00

Well, Spring comes and goes around here this year. But a walk to Lincoln Park a couple of days ago was peaceful. The snow is melting from the Olympics so it must be Spring, right?

Three Days of Spring!

2008-05-20T08:28:00.000-07:00

And now we are back to chilly rain. No matter. We really enjoyed our few days of sun and warmth. Here are some shots of the yard - which also enjoyed the heat boost. Roll your cursor over the image to see a caption.

Quincy Wildlife Area

2008-05-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

Quincy Wildlife Area in, that's right, Quincy, WA. It was hot. Hotter than should be allowed. Almost 100. The hike out wasn't so bad. The hike back had us a bit concerned. It's not that long of a hike but there is zero shade and zero places to sit and rest. Because of the heat, we worked extra hard to do a simple level hike. I suggest doing this hike earlier than the third week in May or wait until September-October. Or begin your hike as early in the day as possible. We started at 10 a.m. but that was too late.

So, heat aside, the place is beautiful. I wish I were able to get more shots. But, truly, the heat and the sun made things difficult. There was little stopping on the way back for anything. The air was full of the scent of sage. I was tempted to take some to make smudge sticks - but didn't. Columnar basalt towers eight hundred or so feet high. Birds are everywhere in those cliffs, especially barn swallows. Raptors too. I have finally heard a real live meadowlark, S's favorite bird. Along the way we would stop to listen and could tell that one was very close but we couldn't ever spot one. We could hear its song loud an clear. Its song would echo off the rock wall. I wonder if they know the difference between an echo and another Meadowlark answering?

At the end of the hike are beautiful lakes and waterfalls. You can camp around the lakes and lots of people were already set up. Still, a campsite in that kind of heat with no shade...not my idea of a good time. Still, we saw and heard and smelled good things. And if you are yearning for the Southwest, which S surely is, this is a good substitute. Next time we will plan more accordingly.

Clearly This Will Take A While

2008-05-10T16:07:00.000-07:00

and i know am faced with the possible decision of switching to the "new" Blogger (which is hardly new but I've avoided making the switch). when i think of all the work i'll have to do to get the blog to look like it did about 10 minutes ago compared to all the work i will have to do to create this blog in "new" Blogger, it's a toss up, really. we'll see...sorry for the delays and the mess

testin testing

2008-05-10T15:53:00.001-07:00

accidentally erased entire template
before i get drunk, i'l try a couple of remedies to see if i can retrieve the info

Another Overcast Day

2008-05-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

So it's a good thing I had three doc appts. Though the skies did turn blue and the sun was shining by the time I got home and was too tired to care about it. I've attached a few shots of the view from the Harborview parking garage of the life-flight helicopter. I'd like to add that the pilot and co-pilot were women.

My MRI was the kick off to a long day running here and there in and out of parking garages, in and out of traffic and several (no joke) needle jabs. I think it's a record for failed attempts to draw blood or inject dye. I look like a total junkie. Could be a new look for me.

P.S. : Roll your mouse over the pic to reveal the caption.

Growin', Growin', Growin'...

2008-05-02T13:00:00.000-07:00

...keep those green things growin' Springtime!

Here are a few shots of the flora around the house. "They" claim the temperature will reach 60 today but that won't happen until around 4-4:30 pm, our hottest part of the day. In the meantime, we live under cloudy skies but plenty of green.

Redmond Watershed Preserve

2008-04-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

The weather on Saturday was what we've been waiting for - sunny and warm-ish. We were up and out early for a get-a-way that wasn't too away. Over in Redmond is the Redmond Watershed Preserve, a park with 800 acres and over seven miles of multi-use trails. It's a great place for a run or a hike and even a bike ride. Horses, too, can meander these trails so watch your step. We highly recommend this place for a hike. Get there early so you can soak up the quiet - except for the birds and frogs and such. We heard woodpeckers, we spotted geese and a heron, crossed paths with a couple of deer, and saw lots of birds and a snake. We also got a really good 4 miles of walking to start our day. Once back home we hit the yard to plant flowers.

Here is the basic map and directions. Here is Karen Sykes' article from the Seattle P-I.

A Snail of Two Cities

2008-04-26T16:40:00.001-07:00

One city is the out of doors, where this guy and his pals can be spotted sliming along my pea starts. The other city is in the tropical greenhouse, where warm air and dripping moisture lessen the friction between already slimy snail and the shelves! This one was spotted making its way to the newly sprouted basil. This is not the first and certainly won't be the last snail to see using my greenhouse as a personal HomeTown Buffet. I'll be watching very closely.

Urban Growth

2008-04-26T06:37:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of Orange Smoothie Pumpkin starts. I've got two in the ground. Not sure where these two will go. Perhaps just in a big container and then set amongst the landscaping to spill over the rock wall.

Everyone in the garden got a good dose of water fortified with fish emulsion. That includes me. I guess that litre bottle has been in the shed a looooooong time. I was shaking it and then I gave it a squeeze cuz I could feel the weight of the product and I wanted to get things moving. Well, one squeeze was all it took to crack the thing and I got sprayed all over the front of my shorts. Pretty much looked like I had explosive diarrhea but in the front. Yeah, and it smelled good too. The cat was really diggin' me when I went inside.

Planted some bok choi and rainbow chard starts and then more of the same seed. Planted nasturtium starts and discovered a clump of volunteer sunflowers. Last month I had seen the old, half-eaten sunflower head from last year in the drive way. These things disappear and then turn up again as various critters pick them over. So it made its way to a clump of dirt by the sage plants. We'll have to thin them but it will be nice to have sunflowers. I have several sunflower seeds germinating in the greenhouse anyway. I'll just plug them everywhere. The more you plant the more you should get to survive?

Turnips have been sprouted for over a week so I planted more seed, along with a full array of lettuces around the broccoli starts. I've basically packed that little bed with growth potential. I have thousands of seeds, I might as well use them.

What's going on in your veggie gardens?

HAPPY EARTH DAY

2008-04-22T07:52:00.001-07:00

Just a few ideas:

Take your own bags to the grocery store.
Walk to the grocery store.
Switch to energy saving light bulbs.
Take the bus to work.
Plant a salad garden.
Try a meat-free meal this week (then next week, then twice a week, then three times a week).
Choose independent over big-box-chain store.
Buy in bulk to reduce packaging.
Open those curtains and turn off those lights.
Don't buy anything today.

I could go on. The point - take a step to make a change.

Global Warming?

2008-04-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

Speaking of weather, I think February was nicer than March. March was the coldest in decades. Veggie gardens around town are slow in growing. I thought I'd be eating arugula by now but it's just sitting there, not quite 2 inches tall. My broccoli has it’s first set of true leaves but that’s it. And those I planted as established starts! My onion patch, however, is perfectly content. But I’m doing what I can, besides waiting and brooding, to encourage urban growth. My little greenhouse is full of basil, catnip, peas, beans, sunflowers, chard, and tiny pumpkins in various stages of germination.

Other yard projects included laying down a whole new layer of gravel - ourselves. We also replaced the bricks removed by the contractor when he repaired a leak in the outside drain from the gutter. We changed the shape of things a bit and removed a plant or two. I like the simple rustic look. It gets alot of traffic from us so it needs to be user-friendly. Local weather folks are calling for freezing temps again so I will delay - again - putting in more veggie starts. Errrrrrrrrrrrrr.

SPRING!

2008-04-14T07:42:00.001-07:00

Finally, the sun, the temps, the blue sky! For a whole day! But Sunday and today are cloudy again. Still, we saw our window of opportunity and jump through. We hopped a ferry to Southworth then drove a bit more to Belfair, WA to explore the Mary E. Theler Community Center & Wetlands Trails. The temperature was over 70, we hung out with barn swallows, blue herons, hawks, ducks, geese, red wing blackbirds, snakes, and all sorts of other flying critters as we walked the 3 miles of trails. I've included a handful of photos here. I hope wherever you are you can get outside!

SUBSCRIBE TO bodanzarama!

2008-04-11T15:28:00.000-07:00

Never miss a new post. Subscribe to bodanzarama in a couple of different ways. Either get new entries directly in your e-mailbox or sign up to get updates on a reader. Either way, you won't miss a thing! Thanks for reading!

Subscribe in a reader

Quick Stop in Fremont

2008-04-07T20:25:00.000-07:00

First time in Stickman Coffee. Above is the courtyard with a fabulous mural. Below is a double-tall-non-fat latte, my drink of choice. Excellent coffee, really. This place is right around the corner from Fremont Jewelry Design where we had our rings made/prettied-up. Very, very pleased with the results.

Rocket Leaves No Tail

2008-04-05T17:23:00.000-07:00

This is Rocket, a neighborhood cat. She has practically no tail. However, she is an excellent climber and was spotted stalking the birds that feed at our feeder. I rapped on the window and she spotted me.

Island Life

2008-03-31T20:34:00.000-07:00

Spent a couple days on Whidbey Island. The weather actually cleared and we were able to hike one of our favorite hikes, the bluff at Ebey's Landing. But not before a stop at Miriam's Espresso Cafe for the Morning Glory Muffin. I can't say enough good things about these muffins. Healthy? Not likely. Tasty? Off the charts. La Vie En Rose Bakery in Anacortes, WA creates these tasty treats and we look forward to treating ourselves.
On the hike we were treated to several fly-bys by a bald eagle and an osprey. This was the best shot of the eagle I could manage. Pretty good, I think. The temp was just barely 40 degrees and things were gusty on the bluff. But once the sun came out it was really nice. It was snowing the next morning, however, but back home the sun shone again.

Signs of Spring?

2008-03-28T13:22:00.000-07:00

I thought it was Spring. No matter. Snow is pretty and we don't have to deal with it too often.

Signs of Spring

2008-03-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

In spite of the snain (snow + rain) falling last night, Spring is coming. The giant ornamental plum tree in the front yard is in bloom. And it smells wonderful. We have some fallen branches in a tall vase on the dining room table.

MY SUPPORT STAFF

2008-03-25T12:23:00.000-07:00

MY BLOGGING INTERN.

Everyone Enjoys the Daffodils

2008-03-18T16:30:00.000-07:00

What's that between the garlic and daffodils? It's something but I can't quite tell...

aha! It's A-Rod, a neighbor cat. He's catching the last of the day's sun.

The Future of Food

2008-03-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

Well, it's not a recipe but it's certainly food related. Food that we are growing and will be eating. On my food blog which for now is called feed yourself.

Ghost Dancers

2008-03-10T06:59:00.000-07:00

It was a foggy drive to school one day last week. I shot a few frames while heading toward the bridge. Out of the fog danced figures of light.

All Creatures Great and Small

2008-03-07T07:12:00.000-08:00

It's because this bird was no bigger than a crow that I didn't think to look up. I was sitting on the couch in front of the picture window and the cat had just made herself comfortable on my lap (which took forever). I see birds come and go all the time but something made me look up at the wire. I knew immediately it wasn't a crow but couldn't tell what it was. I thought about it for a solid minute before I tossed the cat onto the floor (she really didn't like that) and ran for the camera. I only got three quick shots before it stepped off the wire, swooped almost to the ground across the street then began to fly away. It's a horrible picture but once I boosted the exposure to the max I was actually able to make out the features: the beak, eye, ring around the neck, white underside feathers and two white tail-bands. Once I locate my bird book I hope to identify it. Looking on the Internet hasn't been helpful. It was really exciting to see it right in my yard.

A Recent Drive to Fremont

2008-03-03T18:45:00.001-08:00

A recent drive to to Fremont via 99 and the Viaduct. Just hold up the camera and shoot and shoot and shoot. Later, you realize you actually took shots worth seeing, especially after you straightened them up. Above, I'm on 99 approaching downtown. Freight cars on the right. Orange cranes that move freight cars to the left.
My little monk doll who rides on the dash with my Day of The Dead skeleton (you might make out the reflection of him in the windshield).
On the Viaduct.
Great sky and mountains just peaking over the photo's horizon.
Into the tunnel and on my way.

Hope Is Not Lost Part 4

2008-02-18T19:38:00.000-08:00

Today it was Carkeek Park. Only a couple of photo opps but what a glorious day for sun and blue sky and a walk in the woods. The trails go up and down and over and through. There is an overpass to get you across the train tracks and I shot a couple pics from that overpass but the wind was too much for us. We were slightly underdressed for the beach's wind because we had considered the ups and downs of hiking when getting dressed. Another day.

Hope Is Not Lost Part 3

2008-02-18T19:27:00.000-08:00

Headed to the Arboretum. Walked all through it and along the boardwalks that run along the surface of Lake Washington. The boardwalks run all the way to the Museum of History and Industry. From there you can close the loop by catching Lake Washington Blvd. back to the Arboretum. LOTS of walking but what a great day for it.

The rich, beautiful bark of a cherry tree.
Spotted a well-camouflaged heron sitting in a tree. He's either grooming or very shy.
Looking west at the Montlake Bridge and the Montlake Cut.

Cormorants and crows watching the world go by.

S looking toward the UW stadium. She has a story about the day that she heard and saw that giant overhang on the right side collapse. This was while the stadium was still under construction. Another reason I don't do sports.

Hope Is Not Lost Part 2

2008-02-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

I hope this is an indication of the weather today.

Hope Is Not Lost Part 1

2008-02-17T19:00:00.000-08:00

Spring will come. I now know it's true. What a beautiful day. Headed to Lincoln Park. A fair amount of descent to get from our place to the water. Then you have to get back up. I opted for the stairs that begin after you have climbed back up from the water and crossed Fauntleroy. S opted for the surface streets that switchback up to California. Here I am looking up at the first set of stairs.

At the mid-point looking back.

Looking up at the next and last set of stairs. Almost there.

Route 21

2008-02-08T07:11:00.001-08:00

On my way downtown to meet S for lunch. It's nice to get on the bus early in the route.

Speeding across the bridge.

Let's Eat

2008-02-04T21:06:00.000-08:00

Lots of delicious things happening on Cucina Bodanza.

Cilantro Yogurt Chicken Salad
Lentil Patties
Broiled Tofu with Yogurt Marinade
Roasted Cauliflower and Potato Soup

Blurry Moon Photos

2008-01-25T19:28:00.000-08:00

Well, why try to come up with a clever title? Just get to the point.

The weather lately has been great. Cold, but sunny and clear. This has resulted in wonderful views of all the mountains and lovely sunrises and sunsets. It's also the reason we've had dramatic moonrises too. From the kitchen we can spot the moon through the trees. It has first appeared as a giant, orange ball. As it rises the color lightens and it appears smaller. Wednesday morning at about 6:15 I travelled one block west on my street, crested the street and looked straight at Puget Sound which was illuminated by the full moon. It appeared not as water but as a field of snow with dark islands in it. It took my eyes a moment to adjust. I just couldn't figure it out at first. The light was so bright and so beautiful and it was still dark. So the water appeared white. What I wouldn't have given to just sit there in my car for another 30 minutes to watch as the colors changed. On days I don't have class I get to enjoy the sunrises form the picture window in the living room.

Bhutanese Red Rice

2008-01-22T19:39:00.000-08:00

Read about Bhutanese Red Rice on Cucina Bodanza.

On A Clear Day...

2008-01-21T14:42:00.000-08:00

What a great day for weather. Crisp (around 32 degrees when I shot this) and crystal clear. Here is the sun coming up and touching Mt. Rainier. It's a decent view from the front porch. In spite of the neighborhood trees and electric poles, I feel fortunate to be able to see the mountain whenever I look out (assuming it's clear).

On my drive down 35th to the bridge I could see all of Mt. Baker and all the peaks from there to Mt. Rainier. On the other side of the Sound I could see all of the Olympics. A great day for mountains. I walked down to Lincoln Park to stroll along the water and it was beautiful. The hike up is challenging but the views on the way down and the exposure to endless sun made it worth it.

Chicken Salad on Cucina Bodanza

2008-01-18T14:25:00.000-08:00

Yes, all my posts are about food. Well, school is very busy, the weather usually sucks, and no trips are planned until late Spring. But I cook every day so this is where the creativity is lately. I wish I had time to blog ALL the yummy things I make. For now, perhaps once a week. Wish the pics were better. Again, no time for clever set-ups. I figure a decent shot to give you an idea of the outcome is sufficient for now.

Read about Chicken Salad on Cucina Bodanza.

Cucina Bodanza

2008-01-09T07:24:00.000-08:00

We try Coq au Vin on Cucina Bodanza.