tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77066968386310597352024-03-19T02:25:16.037-07:00galonthegoMJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-58957501976053214762015-06-24T14:16:00.004-07:002015-06-24T21:20:37.156-07:00Mycenae and MeMy reason for spending a week on the Peloponnese sits atop a high hill (not a mountain by Taos standards!) looking across to the ancient fortress of <a href="http://romeartlover.tripod.com/Argo.html">Argos</a>. Alongside my fifth-graders at <a href="http://www.potomacschool.org/academics/MS/index.aspx">Potomac School </a>in McLean, VA more than twenty years ago, I took an imaginary walk through the Lion Gate you see below. The simple language of a children's version of Homer's <i>Iliad, </i>inspired my determination to one day walk, for real, through the same gate where Agamemnon set off for Troy. Could that walk bring alive the raw emotions of this epic tale of battle? I wanted to find out in person. Finally this May, I stood — with hundreds of fellow tourists — absorbing centuries of mythology and history that reverberated from Mycenae's massive walls, deep cisterns, and vast views over the Argolis plain.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4kchvUll1YIg7i4ewvkCzbMLY-Gsr9yj-PUeWhItqr278CwDR_MP3k5yaZaDsnLlvVi1Q5wm0-PzoVNT-fxeq2viPcdlN50t0QQgP1Fdln6JZwQtMOQZRaf0hmNIqhYSz2YDROWHAm1U/s1600/LionGate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4kchvUll1YIg7i4ewvkCzbMLY-Gsr9yj-PUeWhItqr278CwDR_MP3k5yaZaDsnLlvVi1Q5wm0-PzoVNT-fxeq2viPcdlN50t0QQgP1Fdln6JZwQtMOQZRaf0hmNIqhYSz2YDROWHAm1U/s400/LionGate.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No way to stand alone at Mycenae's Lion Gate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Notice the Greek war helmet on my shirt. I couldn't keep myself from<a href="http://www.litographs.com/collections/all/title_The_Iliad"> </a><a href="http://www.litographs.com/collections/all/title_The_Iliad">purchasing it</a> when I learned that Troy was a stop on the <a href="https://www.gct.com/trips/small-ship-cruise-tours/mediterranean/turkish-coastal-voyage-greek-islands-istanbul-and-athens/2015">Grand Circle trip</a> I'd booked with Barbara, my dear friend and best travel buddy. The whole <i>Iliad</i> is written around the shirt in tiny print that forms that iconic helmet. I simply couldn't go to Troy without spending a day at Mycenae, the place the war began!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Walking through the gate, I stared up to the top of those cyclopean walls that lead to the citadel and palace. No fools, those Greeks! Enemies who managed to batter through the heavy wooden gate then faced a long exposed walk. There, they made easy targets for the spears and arrows of residents perched above. See the plan with the Lion Gate in the lower corner:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn6delB0VSSXVnQfr9WIUXlgqHvb9Y39oJXgYofQhwCwTzddakLD1Q6zRUN_0zt1poSqfy2K-6GyL0-DkAqGPE4e9WRXcQkbUUPvI11h81JFMwetGG0CiCxrWwMMhY1kuVQEB_4Yb6QHA/s1600/Mycenaeoverview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn6delB0VSSXVnQfr9WIUXlgqHvb9Y39oJXgYofQhwCwTzddakLD1Q6zRUN_0zt1poSqfy2K-6GyL0-DkAqGPE4e9WRXcQkbUUPvI11h81JFMwetGG0CiCxrWwMMhY1kuVQEB_4Yb6QHA/s320/Mycenaeoverview.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You'll see the Lion Gate in SE corner.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Several cisterns lie within the cyclopean walls. Some are fed by springs while one far below the city is served by a distant spring via an ingenious aqueduct system. If it looks dark at that doorway, imagine traveling a hundred yards in total darkness — the iPhone flashlight led me just far enough to realize that I didn't need to see a cistern at the end of a narrow, deep underground tunnel. This claustrophobe gave in to "seen one cistern, seen them all," on her retreat to natural light.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTPNcP8rpF6N05sUB3wpo3DlFJeVMQrxEpTfp6lp__gnmDGAirLL9VTeGm7gKOFJfhZFiZAM_1LlM4k7TwKUGWagy-eKGHbWE4tOIgGmxuNz9vtpHV9bhOdnDZjUiL4fZGiRRQUGjFgwg/s1600/Mycenaeundergroundcistern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTPNcP8rpF6N05sUB3wpo3DlFJeVMQrxEpTfp6lp__gnmDGAirLL9VTeGm7gKOFJfhZFiZAM_1LlM4k7TwKUGWagy-eKGHbWE4tOIgGmxuNz9vtpHV9bhOdnDZjUiL4fZGiRRQUGjFgwg/s320/Mycenaeundergroundcistern.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Able to withstand siege and assault, Mycenae served as both palace and worship center. Workshops for making weaponry and items for daily living lie not far from the markets of the <i>agora</i>. At the market, citizens might have purchased a vase decorated like the sherds you see below (1250-1050 B.C.). It depicts a chariot that likely resembles the one Achilles used to drag Hector around the gates of Troy.<br />
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjjzMFFHbuDzsCcPMEdtxHah5OF3SiBWY0_Ac7vk6KRygpB9i5F8xLMMIMiBZyvhtle1DA3zFcr93aqDY0Enid_GIO2dl-KpnPO4dmVEDHlNUBVShEpMvACmqUMo_afx60N3aAjWo78U/s1600/chariotsherds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjjzMFFHbuDzsCcPMEdtxHah5OF3SiBWY0_Ac7vk6KRygpB9i5F8xLMMIMiBZyvhtle1DA3zFcr93aqDY0Enid_GIO2dl-KpnPO4dmVEDHlNUBVShEpMvACmqUMo_afx60N3aAjWo78U/s320/chariotsherds.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Dates for the Trojan War are fuzzy - 12th or 13th century B.C. is as close as historians are willing to venture. Heck! — we can't even decide for sure if <span id="goog_1468085459"></span><a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/517577?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227001163567&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=53110955088&wl4=&wl5=pla&wl6=52078743054&veh=sem">Homer<span id="goog_1468085460"></span> </a>existed or when his epic poems were composed. Finding a modern translation selling online at <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/517577?action=product_interest&action_type=title&item_id=517577&placement_id=irs-106-t1&strategy=PWVAV&visitor_id&category=&client_guid=3a8c6072-fe9a-4814-88b4-813292b3fd61&customer_id_enc&config_id=2&parent_item_id=515977&parent_anchor_item_id=515977&guid=e9b0f086-fd76-408e-81e5-d97fdc083b15&bucket_id=irsbucketdefault&beacon_version=1.0.1&findingMethod=p13n">Walmart</a> suggest their popularity is a given, no matter when or by whom the stories were recorded.<br />
<br />
What was life like for those ancient Greeks who sent thousands into battle, all for the sake of honor and the return of the most beautiful woman in the world. That question still sends tourists across oceans and continents to stand and reflect on the ground and within the walls where the battle call was first sounded.<br />
<div>
<br />
<div>
Looking at artifacts inspires questions: could this woman, seen in the partial remains of an ancient fresco, be Iphigenia? It's intriguing to imagine this dutiful daughter whose sacrifice at Aulis was required before Artemis would allow the winds to blow the becalmed Greek fleet. Reading her story, told by Doris Gates in <a href="http://a%20fair%20wind%20for%20troy%20barnes%20and%20noble/">A Fair Wind for Troy</a>, encouraged some lively discussions about sacrifice, parent-child obligations, and the inseparable nature of history and mythology in our study of ancient Greece.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDRR4I-zUKO212EmpE_xfFEwFjgZ4WKNUYhBklQ4oN5p8swu9KiybrCt-a4HBSShFcJ4rbEakBDSOotzO2tC6lud5drVX5xzSCShpwkJYy49i7A8xLBgrjIH7K6Q3i67B3E5YqNKrubU/s1600/womanfrescoMycenae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDRR4I-zUKO212EmpE_xfFEwFjgZ4WKNUYhBklQ4oN5p8swu9KiybrCt-a4HBSShFcJ4rbEakBDSOotzO2tC6lud5drVX5xzSCShpwkJYy49i7A8xLBgrjIH7K6Q3i67B3E5YqNKrubU/s320/womanfrescoMycenae.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
Many objects in the exquisite small museum at this hilltop World Heritage Site transported me to the Mycenae of the BigA's: Agamemnon, Artemis, and Achilles. What an amazing variety of skills this culture shares with modern observers who marvel at both those cyclopean walls and these delicate small figurines (between 2-4 inches tall) from daily life and from the imagination.<br />
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWn1Z8HE5evMgs9khbqHotP40GENxbvCcnIOxhEZmdbyWdX3sz82K_3agNUs0BuhlMPslTncHTwmR73Jd3kYTclC5xJ0UdrA8IQiXvxKG9SKm0otkDj1bVe1uO1u1zeMZoHlYzqc7qPI/s1600/roosterMycenae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWn1Z8HE5evMgs9khbqHotP40GENxbvCcnIOxhEZmdbyWdX3sz82K_3agNUs0BuhlMPslTncHTwmR73Jd3kYTclC5xJ0UdrA8IQiXvxKG9SKm0otkDj1bVe1uO1u1zeMZoHlYzqc7qPI/s320/roosterMycenae.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Could my neighbor's morning cock-a-doodle-doo have descended from this Greek cousin?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2hMDBmkPf6v8OZUlutWecsBJ1INLME8IH8zWKJOWOqHX8dSVOoPK-FpupL7mMT_nIrbsd4Pj5a5YnRR4WzPSORqtRQ9BJ9d-rGfHIkPIKTcJDzCTSJA3lm2X5eD4ooKkxhiwrcDybLQ/s1600/sphinxMycenae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2hMDBmkPf6v8OZUlutWecsBJ1INLME8IH8zWKJOWOqHX8dSVOoPK-FpupL7mMT_nIrbsd4Pj5a5YnRR4WzPSORqtRQ9BJ9d-rGfHIkPIKTcJDzCTSJA3lm2X5eD4ooKkxhiwrcDybLQ/s320/sphinxMycenae.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This pair of sphinx-like figures — a skinny winged lion-man — intrigued and delighted.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This head cover caught my eye — just what every woman needs on a bad hair day atop a windy hill!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1MxJtB5O8_EEud90h4INr6OqlSlzacx6PmAZDXghamDFVrSnY_UtGOerTptjWaiyHlCY4p3HIi-xTQvQiwkt18U9H2OoB0ui6qjwZ3UJOxG68QJjr2tnLDx43-amPDVlbb6zhUSR9ig/s1600/Mycenaejointedfigure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1MxJtB5O8_EEud90h4INr6OqlSlzacx6PmAZDXghamDFVrSnY_UtGOerTptjWaiyHlCY4p3HIi-xTQvQiwkt18U9H2OoB0ui6qjwZ3UJOxG68QJjr2tnLDx43-amPDVlbb6zhUSR9ig/s320/Mycenaejointedfigure.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And what about that jointed body - some ritual puppet for goddess worship? Without explanation at the museum, I'm guessing no expert is willing to risk making an educated guess, at least not yet. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No educated guessing on my travel intentions: return to the Peloponnese as soon as circumstances allow. A day at <a href="http://greekfestival.gr/en/venues/view/ancient-theatre-of-epidaurus">Epidaurus</a> (click the history button to learn more) is a must. Olympus calls to me, as well. There I'll honor the Greek Olympics, the celebration marking every Potomac fifth-grader's year-end with authentic costumes, games, and laurel wreaths. Turns out that my time at Mycenae didn't satisfy. I'll return with a good guide(book, if not a person) to complete this triad of Peloponnesian "must-do's."</div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-70407926709911257702015-06-11T05:57:00.001-07:002015-06-20T09:23:18.816-07:00Symi - splendid serendipity!Symi, a small island that is considered by some to be the most beautiful of all Greek islands, is the first overnight stop on our small ship tour. Barbara, Jo Ann, Nancy and I woke to find ourselves in a beautiful small harbor. After a morning walk-around the tiny port town, our program director Attila, invited us to spend the day as we pleased. Everyone grinned: the flight from Athens followed by walking tours in Rhodes had been grueling. A 4 a.m. wake-up call was just the beginning of a long trip from one side of the Aegean Sea to the other. A superb lunch in <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g635613-d1170334-Reviews-Romios_Restaurant-Rhodes_Town_Rhodes_Dodecanese.html">Romios</a>' shaded garden gave us just enough energy to board the <i>Artemis</i> before cocktail hour, dinner, and a night sail to Symi.<br />
<br />
Atilla informed us that within short walking distance of our mooring in Symi harbor we'd find a pleasant beach for swimming and sunbathing. Motorcycles were available to rent for backroad adventures. There was always the option to explore art galleries and shops in town or kickback on the boat: perhaps read a book or play a game in the air-conditioned lounge or enjoy a mix of sun and shade on the upper deck. The four of us remained undecided, as our morning orientation walk came to a close. Then we heard the Poseidon's captain, Giannis, call out from the town dock: "Ladies, come for a cruise around the island with swimming and a BBQ lunch." Barbara said, "Whaddya think? Do we have time?" No hesitation — almost in unison, we all said, "Brilliant idea: absolutely! YES!!"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t2-S1L7_ggI/VXbq980VXTI/AAAAAAAABTc/U43onb61W1I/s1600/P1030746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t2-S1L7_ggI/VXbq980VXTI/AAAAAAAABTc/U43onb61W1I/s320/P1030746.JPG" width="241" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Making a quick dash back to the <i>Artemis, </i>we<i> g</i>athered basic day-on-the-boat gear: swimsuits & coverups, plenty of the large fluffy beach towels provided by cruise line, sunscreen, water, and flip-flops instead of walking shoes. Nancy and Jo Ann met us at the <i>Poseidon</i> at exactly 10:30 a.m. The excursion schedule included three stops at small coves for swimming and a lunch stop on the tiny island of <i>Spetses</i> before our return to the <i>Artemis</i> for the daily port talk and dinner.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our loop around the island stopped first at a cove we called Spaghetti/Macaroni - Greek name: <i>Maroni</i>. After that we swam at <i>Savasilios</i> or "Santa Claus." The last swim stop was in cove called St. Nikolas, the location where <i>Guns of Navarone</i> was filmed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_V7X4huNoVk/VXbrB3Sl56I/AAAAAAAABTk/7g2ES1IqDlo/s1600/P1030747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_V7X4huNoVk/VXbrB3Sl56I/AAAAAAAABTk/7g2ES1IqDlo/s400/P1030747.JPG" width="287" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Those synchronized smiles tell the whole story. The water was warm enough after a momentary shock of cool. The Aegean is no bathtub! However, knowing that ouzo waited for us after the swim eased the slide from ladder to sea. Can you see our feet? <b><i>Divine</i></b> is my only word for the Aegean's crystalline waters.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMOVXyxQVptWBuwu5jUmIPSGWefcV2tgwnfvrlsfpqwsW5FainF46bXoiGwDm_MmcS6nCT57xFmgZM3TKejKso8twNXg2aD6bSsvvvp95P0071QEtpz5fdptRwQ6lZqPxCgWesqHVoBrw/s1600/AegeanSymiSwim.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMOVXyxQVptWBuwu5jUmIPSGWefcV2tgwnfvrlsfpqwsW5FainF46bXoiGwDm_MmcS6nCT57xFmgZM3TKejKso8twNXg2aD6bSsvvvp95P0071QEtpz5fdptRwQ6lZqPxCgWesqHVoBrw/s320/AegeanSymiSwim.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After each swim, Giannis welcomed us back aboard with tiny shots of ouzo or glasses of wine. Plenty of water available all day; no need to bring my own water bottle next time. Can you read the sub-text? ( return to Greece is surely in my future :-)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As lunchtime approached, we motored to <i>Spetses</i>, the itty bitty chunk of land southeast of the main island. Populated by a small herd of very hungry goats, its jetty was handy for off-loading the BBQ grill and provisions. The beach, shaded by pine trees, had plenty of picnic tables awaiting our buffet. To one side of the jetty is a pebble beach while the other side is sandy. While Yiannis and crew prepared lunch, I swam out to see if the dolphins who followed us into the dock might return, but no luck. I did, however, have a pleasant chat with an Irishman who had lived a couple of years in Albuquerque. A sometime Celtic musician, he had played in a couple of clubs I'd been to in Santa Fe — small world, indeed!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we finished the perfect lunch of BBQ chicken and homemade Greek side dishes plus an all-American potato salad that we doctored with tzatsiki, the goats moved in to do KP.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
St Nikolas cove, the location where <i>The Guns of Navarone</i> was filmed, was our last swim stop —by then, I was ready for full-on relax. Yiannis offered coffee, cake, more ouzo, wine, or water. Lazing against the cushions while background splashes punctuated <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Fisherman-Halicarnassus-Bodrum-Famous/dp/0956741665">The Fisherman of Halicarnassus</a></i> was heaven. It's the perfect companion book for this trip.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I tried shooting photos into the late-after afternoon sun, but that didn't work for me so I'll add some photos from JoAnn after I take my computer to her on July 6th for picture downloading. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Take a look below the ladder to see how clear the water is — no coral or other reef items for exploring via snorkel, but gazing at the sea floor while swimming was truly grand!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ttJUVyDBxCY/VXl9B041tiI/AAAAAAAABV8/2BlHoiZfj1U/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ttJUVyDBxCY/VXl9B041tiI/AAAAAAAABV8/2BlHoiZfj1U/s320/IMG_0377.JPG" width="214" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhkz_VFW973hbSmyvJEBx-PT4A54GkB8dt3dmDCqv_M_DvRT6Lv2qxjN3xFK_sYzsMi8fw3A1UAbilOZJDzlNOoa8265d5V6lEHPFHApmbDqHj6oWPOU3JAQm4L4lRq93mg6R8TH2bAnM/s1600/SymiswimJean.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhkz_VFW973hbSmyvJEBx-PT4A54GkB8dt3dmDCqv_M_DvRT6Lv2qxjN3xFK_sYzsMi8fw3A1UAbilOZJDzlNOoa8265d5V6lEHPFHApmbDqHj6oWPOU3JAQm4L4lRq93mg6R8TH2bAnM/s320/SymiswimJean.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Deciding to take the boat trip reinforced our trip theme: "When serendipity calls — as unexpected opportunities arise — <u>say yes and see what happens</u>." As with the necessaries, one visits the loo whenever it appears NOT when you need it. You never know when another will present itself. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-Y6r_A5YQ-OTSlAvzwJzhe8GZn6Y9ZJ0keGkUJ6fPBEDq_eAw5NncCBtMnjIF1qSwftPd_Q6BBnJ4M-fkIl-5zlbTZN-2cqHdjguN4-HXzQiY4zApBhV4ldtu78QG4dcabajtosMo9I/s1600/JoAnnaboardPoseidon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-Y6r_A5YQ-OTSlAvzwJzhe8GZn6Y9ZJ0keGkUJ6fPBEDq_eAw5NncCBtMnjIF1qSwftPd_Q6BBnJ4M-fkIl-5zlbTZN-2cqHdjguN4-HXzQiY4zApBhV4ldtu78QG4dcabajtosMo9I/s320/JoAnnaboardPoseidon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-5749255074137127412015-06-05T21:21:00.002-07:002015-06-06T12:01:19.870-07:00Cruising the GulfSome photos to go with yesterday's commentary - yes! I solved the upload problem; just required a lot of patience with a very slow internet connection. Those who know me well will quickly note that patience is a virtue I express seldom, if at all!<br />
<br />
On the Pegasus cruise, leaving the harbor at Tolo:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eZU5mQmg23c/VXGrdEJYHGI/AAAAAAAABJM/4acr4DSTafk/s1600/P1030418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eZU5mQmg23c/VXGrdEJYHGI/AAAAAAAABJM/4acr4DSTafk/s320/P1030418.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Those increcible clear aquamarine waters of Hydra beckon swimmers but the rocks present a forbidding entry. The solution: sunbathing platforms perched among the shoreline rocks — and shallow steps leading into the water. Even nicer: from the swim platforms, one can meander uphill to shaded refreshment stands with picnic tables, umbrellas, and good mood music. A very civilized way to enjoy the sea!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sJjEJBEeKuA/VXGrIJA9CWI/AAAAAAAABJE/2B3fuJVu4qo/s1600/P1030443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sJjEJBEeKuA/VXGrIJA9CWI/AAAAAAAABJE/2B3fuJVu4qo/s320/P1030443.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
See, Alan, I told you I ate lunch with a cannon. I just wish you could read the fine print on the menu that tells about the Sunset Restaurant being voted the 2nd best view in the <u>world</u>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dlsqvHdo9iw/VXFgDFxGMFI/AAAAAAAABIU/m5PbIsuVIos/s1600/IMG_0105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dlsqvHdo9iw/VXFgDFxGMFI/AAAAAAAABIU/m5PbIsuVIos/s320/IMG_0105.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7WR-WuIgcE/VXFsl59zuVI/AAAAAAAABIc/DVCVgpCBVKE/s1600/P1030437.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7WR-WuIgcE/VXFsl59zuVI/AAAAAAAABIc/DVCVgpCBVKE/s320/P1030437.RW2" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
More cannons - and that's Gill&Steph who I met on the boat; funny that we all ended up at the same restaurant with a view and shared lunch together. Behind the lens is Peter, Steph's brother: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jgx7rkIsMiQ/VXH3gqfZY5I/AAAAAAAABNs/JdNfr7VfRM8/s1600/P1030433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jgx7rkIsMiQ/VXH3gqfZY5I/AAAAAAAABNs/JdNfr7VfRM8/s320/P1030433.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Why so many cannons, you ask. Think pirates following in the wake of the shipping lanes that criss-crossed the waters between Italy and Byzantium. In fact, trade and anti-piracy activity provided most of Bouboulina's fortune, from which she funded ships with cannons to aim at the Turks in Greece's the war of revolution.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br /></blockquote>
<br />MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-55884401015771453002015-06-04T08:23:00.004-07:002015-06-04T13:58:11.005-07:00Hydra & HeroinesMy last day in Nafplio — for at least a year, anyway! — was a wonderful but exhausting excursion to taste the Argolida's islands. First a bus to Tolo, then hop aboard Pegasus cruises to Hydra. For those in the know, pronounce ee-dra. Arriving by private yacht is for those really in the know! But however you get there it's a delightful place to spend longer than the Pegasus cruise stop allowed.<br />
<br />
Lunch at the 2nd-most beautiful view restaurant in the <b><i>WORLD</i></b> was wonderful. How do I know its standing in the view competition — the menu told me so right on the front cover. Homemade bread with olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers accompanied a grilled gilt-head bream on a bed of roasted veggies. The waiter said I wouldn't need a salad, and he was so right. All of this in the company of a few cannons and a trio of Brit-Canadians from the Pegasus. I was there for lunch, but this sunset view shows the cannon to good effect (AND I can't seem to upload photos <a href="http://www.sunsethydra.com/photo-galleries/restaurant.aspx">right now)</a><br />
<br />
The bad news: photo upload isn't working.<br />
The good news: the Apple store is just a few steps downhill from the hotel. By now, my idea of a <u>few</u> steps is anything less than 999. I'll stop in before leaving Athens to see if I can solve the problem.<br />
<br />
Now, about that heroine: Lascarina Bouboulis AKA Bouboulina. While on a short stop at the island of Spetses, I took in a museum tour guided by one of her descendents, a very handsome young man who spoke fantastic English. This article gives you a down-and-dirty account of her heroism, although I can't figure out the connection with <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/greece/5989510/Greek-woman-sets-fire-to-Britons-genitals-Laskarina-Bouboulina-the-heroine.html">Briton's genitals.</a> Please comment if you get it — still a little jet-laggy here, so I must be missing some subtle point.<br />
<br />
There are tons of poetic tales and a Wikipedia entry online if you want to know more than this brief overview. EVERY Greek knows Bouboulina, AND I bet they're hoping that the 1 drachma coin with her image on the front and the <i>Agamemmnon</i> on the reverse remains a souvenir. I don't remember ever getting a coin as a parting gift from a museum. I'm holding on to this coin in case it gains some value beyond the story it tells — maybe when I return next year?<br />
<br />
At the end of the cruise, I walked uphill from the harbor in Tolo to the first gift shop on the left. If the next bus had been scheduled to arrive in less than two hours, I never would have experienced another memorable moment: an inquiry for a taxi, and the shopkeeper replied in New York accented English. For a minute, I wondered if I was in Times Square. She asked me where I was from and then delighted in telling me she'd grown up in Queens!! While I waited for the taxi to arrive, she HAD to fill in the rest of the story. Her parents immigrated to the States when she was eight. She came to visit relatives in Greece when she graduated high school, and sure enough, she left with an engagement ring around her heart. Her husband-to-be needed to work a couple more years before she could rejoin him in Greece, and she's been in Tolo every since.<br />
<br />
She gave me the inside skinny, from a shopkeeper's perspective, on the Greek economy/Eurozone relationship. She said Greeks DO work really hard: her son keeps the shop open 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, 8 months of the year. (It rains the other other four months, so there are no tourists, anyway) She said everyone in her town is sure that Angela Merkel is eager to seal a deal with the Greek prime minister, but her interest in Spyrias is not economic. "We've seen how she looks at him!!" So fun to laugh my way into the end of the stay in Nafplio.<br />
<span id="goog_786449786"></span>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-58480137545400006822015-06-02T08:19:00.000-07:002015-06-02T08:19:43.952-07:00Beginning and Ending With CatsMy little sister, Sue, wants more pictures! So, no editing just a few raw <br />
Nafp-snaps to give you a feel for town and waterfront:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WhDVERSgcjo/VW3FIR3sY4I/AAAAAAAABD4/x4zt60JWXwE/s1600/IMG_0103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WhDVERSgcjo/VW3FIR3sY4I/AAAAAAAABD4/x4zt60JWXwE/s320/IMG_0103.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tcRMK76pz5U/VW3FpEMiz_I/AAAAAAAABEM/P3X5tCAW8XQ/s1600/IMG_0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tcRMK76pz5U/VW3FpEMiz_I/AAAAAAAABEM/P3X5tCAW8XQ/s320/IMG_0072.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Small Greek salad - just right for one! Fresh feta and local olives: yum-yum!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZKOnxAKTyQ/VW3GnbOzOPI/AAAAAAAABFo/TEJee92-XXg/s1600/IMG_0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZKOnxAKTyQ/VW3GnbOzOPI/AAAAAAAABFo/TEJee92-XXg/s320/IMG_0090.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ygSzYOrJIxE/VW3GqjMzjmI/AAAAAAAABF0/3LxcRKPjN40/s1600/IMG_0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ygSzYOrJIxE/VW3GqjMzjmI/AAAAAAAABF0/3LxcRKPjN40/s320/IMG_0093.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Palimidi Fortress - partially moonlit and a little help from Mr. Edison.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rQ5T2CRevg/VW3GuDQG4lI/AAAAAAAABFw/j2X836TMNgA/s1600/IMG_0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rQ5T2CRevg/VW3GuDQG4lI/AAAAAAAABFw/j2X836TMNgA/s320/IMG_0095.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
The island castle is under construction; guess I'll have to return when it's done for a tour!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m9xtwhcSHBg/VW3GzZScOII/AAAAAAAABF4/b0g_rFARryE/s1600/IMG_0097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m9xtwhcSHBg/VW3GzZScOII/AAAAAAAABF4/b0g_rFARryE/s320/IMG_0097.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lFTbsF2C79c/VW3GhQW6A3I/AAAAAAAABEs/KngPK_ex9mk/s1600/IMG_0082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lFTbsF2C79c/VW3GhQW6A3I/AAAAAAAABEs/KngPK_ex9mk/s320/IMG_0082.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Bo5MnZzDiE/VW3GemAk0JI/AAAAAAAABEk/fBdvodowzSs/s1600/IMG_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Bo5MnZzDiE/VW3GemAk0JI/AAAAAAAABEk/fBdvodowzSs/s320/IMG_0078.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-83640796889819764222015-06-02T07:44:00.001-07:002015-06-02T07:44:13.655-07:00Serendipity Strikes Again!Last year when Barb and I traveled to the British Isles, we kept bumping into wonderful events and exhibitions which were not on our to-do list. We never got to see the inside of Windsor Castle, but even better, we watched the state parade celebrating the first visit, EVER!, of the Irish President to England. The Horse Guards, Mounted Bands (not marching on foot!), and an Irish Garda Unit made the event far more memorable than a castle tour might have been.<br />
<br />
Serendipity followed us wherever we went — to Dublin and Dun Laoghairie in Ireland, the Isle of Skye, and Edinburgh Castle. It seems serendipity isn't done with me, yet! Serendipity made super memories last night in Nafplio!<br />
<br />
For a change from the tourist restaurant scene, I sought out an Internet-recommended neighborhood cafe for early supper. Service was fine. Food was OK (filling, tasty enough, and healthy, if you don't count a plateful of fries). The jasmine overhead formed a refreshing canopy, even though its blooms were mostly-done. BUT, after dinner as I wound back toward the tourist section through the steep, narrow streets, I heard faint strains of Greek music. This was Monday evening, the Greek Orthodox day for celebrating Pentecost. Perhaps I could peek in on some religious celebration?<br />
<br />
Following the music through nearly-deserted streets, I arrived at the banner-festooned church square. A local audience was settling into neat rows of plastic chairs arranged on the street. I was just in time to hear the priest speak before the dancing began.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Rik797FDAo8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rik797FDAo8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Check out the woman in the last row at 1:45 - clap hands and roll them isn't just for Patty-Cake anymore!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This post is especially dedicated to my cousin, Savannah Tennessee Elaine Walling. Folk dancing was once, and may still be, one of her passions</div>
<br />MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-75607686892048988362015-06-01T05:18:00.000-07:002015-06-02T07:03:12.875-07:00Wake Up, Sleepyhead!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/vh-EYWqABI8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vh-EYWqABI8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
Even better than iPhone alarm-tone! (*) From the balcony across the street (If you're following me, it will look familiar.) these cheerful flashes of sunshine — canaries? — sang me out of a restless jet-lagged sleep. You can bet I'll take Ambien tonight! Closer than their competition, the slightly off-key church bells a block away, these guys are impossible to ignore.<br />
<br />
Downstairs to coffee and a Greek breakfast buffet that covers the 8-foot bar with everything from <i>spanikopita</i> to fresh fruit, olives, feta cheese and chopped tomatoes, honey and yoghurt, and chocolate cake! There's something for <u>ALMOST</u> every breakfast taste in Europe and North America.<br />
<br />
<b>However: ¡<i>No hay huevos rancheros aquí en </i>Nafplio!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
*figured out how to use iPhone alarm - so simple: just set it 8 hours ahead of Taos time, i. e. whatever time it shows. Why did that seem so complicated two days ago?MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-59430121225812235732015-05-31T11:22:00.003-07:002015-05-31T12:29:45.791-07:00About those stairs...I did mention them in the previous post, and you might want to see some of the "official" 999 that lead to the fortress of Palamidi. According to Wikipedia, it's only 913, but who do you believe: local folk or some Internet site?!? Yes, these photos confirm that I walked 'em (sure felt like 999) up and down again!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m5ks_duGk0w/VWtPaA8mGBI/AAAAAAAABAU/547JrtcWgXI/s1600/P1030342.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m5ks_duGk0w/VWtPaA8mGBI/AAAAAAAABAU/547JrtcWgXI/s320/P1030342.RW2" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N000lf-RImE/VWtQQXxlYnI/AAAAAAAABAc/Vzz3X6bkzlg/s1600/P1030339.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N000lf-RImE/VWtQQXxlYnI/AAAAAAAABAc/Vzz3X6bkzlg/s320/P1030339.RW2" width="274" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Note the bowed heads. This climb is not for the weary or weak of will. And what you find at the top is a true crusader fort, built by the 17th C. Venetians to fend off the Turks. Who knew that the empire of Venice extended to Greece. Remember the opening scene of Robin Hood, starring Kevin Costner? Well, this fortress has a prison just like the one he was held in...darn scary! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Great full moon photo of the fortress <a href="http://www.gtp.gr/TDirectoryDetails.asp?ID=14897">here.</a> Wish I was in correct photographic position to take my own image, but this one is spectacular, don't you think. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The perspective here gives you a sense of how far down it is to Nafplio (216 feet for those who delight in exact numbers).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WvZG8H0pnMQ/VWtPOmBSxTI/AAAAAAAAA_8/3l6KY61XvcA/s1600/P1030333.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WvZG8H0pnMQ/VWtPOmBSxTI/AAAAAAAAA_8/3l6KY61XvcA/s320/P1030333.RW2" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A good view of the rocky peninsula. Start in town, to the right of the big green tree, find the walkway and keep the water on your right. In 30 minutes, depending on how many distractions you encounter, (*) you'll see a rocky beach bedecked with jeweled bikinis. Waterfront bar with shaded bar tables and blaring music make it clear that this is Athens beach paradise.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
* I was entertained for ten minutes as I watched pre-teen boys jockey into position for a daredevil dive into crystal blue water. Only one of the four actually made it into the water, but it was fun watching them work up the courage — or not! — to leap. When the beach police came up behind them, their body language spoke "Relief" to be dry instead of still dripping from a recent illicit plunge. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-9026794492884711962015-05-31T06:31:00.001-07:002015-05-31T06:31:27.240-07:00Almost heaven — NafplioPhoto impressions of this first capitol of Greece. On a rocky outcrop — more on that in the next posting after I've walked to Palamidi Castle: 999 steps <b>UP! </b>& down, of course<b>— t</b>his small peninsula juts into aquamarine waters of Argolikos Gulf. How small, you ask: one can walk across, up, down and across it in 15 minutes or around it in 30.<br />
<br />
Totally touristic, but in a welcoming Zorba the Greek way — "but why not!?!" are the words I've heard most often, so far. Nafplio is FULL of restaurants, tchotchke, swimsuit, and ice cream shops. Flowers and window displays with artistic flair subvert the kitsch. Balloon man and organ grinder delight the jillions of children here for the holiday weekend. Friendly service welcomes me at every turn.<br />
<br />
In less than 24 hours, I'm smitten :-)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V54VvNkDbZM/VWr_5SjWifI/AAAAAAAAA_c/C_u5kyWHmnk/s1600/P1030316.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V54VvNkDbZM/VWr_5SjWifI/AAAAAAAAA_c/C_u5kyWHmnk/s320/P1030316.RW2" width="274" /></a></div>
Every street is a bower of bougainvillas - restaurants open for mid-day meals and really start hopping at about 10 PM, busy until way past midnight. Smart hoteliers install AC. Close windows and turn on fan: dreams come quickly to tired travelers — that was me, last night!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BIRr5-rFcAk/VWr_13ye6CI/AAAAAAAAA_U/bUUvuNHalqQ/s1600/P1030315.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BIRr5-rFcAk/VWr_13ye6CI/AAAAAAAAA_U/bUUvuNHalqQ/s320/P1030315.RW2" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AosWY_NDEn8/VWr_xeoT2TI/AAAAAAAAA_M/216fMQ14c6Y/s1600/P1030304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AosWY_NDEn8/VWr_xeoT2TI/AAAAAAAAA_M/216fMQ14c6Y/s320/P1030304.JPG" width="292" /></a></div>
Green-framed view from my room. Pedestrian zone keeps vehicle noise to a minimum, although occasional small motorcycles buzz down alley-wide street like bees to the blossoms. Yes, there are stairs, lots and lots of stairs!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lyaJYMZ_8iA/VWsABzp20FI/AAAAAAAAA_s/cavw-RUz31A/s1600/P1030321.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lyaJYMZ_8iA/VWsABzp20FI/AAAAAAAAA_s/cavw-RUz31A/s320/P1030321.RW2" width="190" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lJNcvguKHkA/VWr_-8W5dwI/AAAAAAAAA_k/e2PyPWVQvq8/s1600/P1030317.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lJNcvguKHkA/VWr_-8W5dwI/AAAAAAAAA_k/e2PyPWVQvq8/s320/P1030317.RW2" width="320" /></a></div>
What to do with those unused concrete blocks? Paint them, stack them, and serve coffee & ice cream!MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-2245164426653479632015-05-29T17:24:00.000-07:002015-05-29T17:47:44.671-07:00Oh!— Athens, part two.So, I wandered along Avenu Andreanou looking for <a href="http://www.savvas-restaurant.com/Bars-Restaurants-Acropolis-View.html">Savvas Roof Garden</a> but why look further when the Stoa of Attalos rises before me, and a friendly waiter beckons :-) After a quick discussion about grilled fresh catch, I sat, admired the stoa and went, via iPad, from the waiter's few words to some history.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zp6B4G0xiQg/VWi4oMl_XBI/AAAAAAAAA8g/mTdNdYs7T5I/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zp6B4G0xiQg/VWi4oMl_XBI/AAAAAAAAA8g/mTdNdYs7T5I/s320/IMG_0056.JPG" width="239" /></a> Draped in a peplos, your travel-weary feet strapped into swarthy leather sandals, you can imagine engaging in business affairs at this stoa attached to the the agora...modern day: business exchange and "farmers' market." The stoa, destroyed in 267 a.d. by Germanic barbarians, lay in ruins until the John D. Rockefeller fortune provided funds for rebuilding in the 1950's. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Timely coincidence: the treaty expanding the Eurozone was signed here in 2003. Will this month bring about its collapse or slide into decline? Athens is busy, cellphone shops are full, outdoor restaurants have few empty tables. Not many visible signs on Athens streets that the eurozone is on shaky ground, but there were plenty of sidewalk beggars (were they always there?) vying for position against graffiti-scrawled classical stone walls. Some revolutionary images but most graffiti was Greek to me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.agathe.gr/overview/the_stoa_of_attalos.html">No ordinary apple for this teacher</a> : Attalos build the stoa in gratitude for the teachings of the Skeptic philosopher, Karneades. Great setting for this retired "kitchen table philosopher," as one professor called me, to dine on fresh fish and grilled veggies with a glass of dry white wine!</div>
MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-47985406476533700002015-05-29T12:23:00.000-07:002015-05-29T12:23:13.969-07:00Oh!— Athens, part one.Amazing mix of the most modern and most ancient. One walks along a busy, littered city street and suddenly, empty airspace appears. Look down:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f397wQTnps4/VWi4ii88x6I/AAAAAAAAA8Y/PRV2IS-D5zk/s1600/IMG_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f397wQTnps4/VWi4ii88x6I/AAAAAAAAA8Y/PRV2IS-D5zk/s320/IMG_0053.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
No sign or other information — just one of myriad ancient ruins not yet allowed to fall victim to urban redevelopment. This site is NO one-off; I passed at least two others in less than 30 minutes of walking around my hotel. It may be ancient, but that doesn't keep graffiti artists from adding their own decorations.<div>
Stark contrast with street stalls, shops where merchandize spills out onto the sidewalk, broken sidewalks lined with motor scooters that is modern Athens.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
These entries must be short & bitty, since the iPad doesn't allow for rambling reviews of touristic excusions. More about Stoa of Attalos in next posting:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zp6B4G0xiQg/VWi4oMl_XBI/AAAAAAAAA8g/mTdNdYs7T5I/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zp6B4G0xiQg/VWi4oMl_XBI/AAAAAAAAA8g/mTdNdYs7T5I/s320/IMG_0056.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /><br /></div>
</div>
MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-16669922656497936392015-05-27T21:01:00.000-07:002015-05-27T21:01:00.826-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
No pot of gold at the end of these rainbows —<br />
instead, gold spreads far beyond my neighbors, all the way to town.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This double rainbow came just when I thought I'd never resolve packing chaos into the order demanded by packing limitations. Energy surges and enthusiasm replaces the nagging concern that I might not "git-er done" by May 27th-noon deadline.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqw_1_B1mQqxRWNhpNzlCunukDf630jqb2L9JUJZAMvsq1CbyhWbQvqe_KX_0dB9cr39Z-GYIGW5KXSKUmzTzawEX8_6XLZLyvnLslUsT_G9aGhx9KFioNhDz-9kJV80oJNXOLouHhhYz/s1600/Mayrainbows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqw_1_B1mQqxRWNhpNzlCunukDf630jqb2L9JUJZAMvsq1CbyhWbQvqe_KX_0dB9cr39Z-GYIGW5KXSKUmzTzawEX8_6XLZLyvnLslUsT_G9aGhx9KFioNhDz-9kJV80oJNXOLouHhhYz/s320/Mayrainbows.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: center;">For those who know where I live, that bright yellow tree in foreground left is the piñon next to my garage. The closer rainbow seems to end behind the hoophouse, in the goatshed of my neighbor, Brigid Meier. Photographer using iPhone stands on my south portal (or porch for you non-Taoseños).</span>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-13378742495455486962015-05-27T20:55:00.000-07:002015-05-27T20:55:19.342-07:00O Ye of Little Faith! Observe order emerge from packing chaos.Though some may have been certain it couldn't be done, I am ready to travel for three weeks with one small checked bag, one carry-on and my longtime reliable <i>LeSportsac</i> handbag. Can't you see me breeze through customs, metro & bus stations, able to board the ferry or ascend any staircase with the grace of a lighter-than-usual load.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mw9TfAmmjl0/VWZ9WPurQaI/AAAAAAAAA7A/ZHEUe1SNa3I/s1600/IMG_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mw9TfAmmjl0/VWZ9WPurQaI/AAAAAAAAA7A/ZHEUe1SNa3I/s320/IMG_0044.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
Yes, that checked bag does contain a unique design of travel clothesline which requires no clothespins and a small bottle of Dr. Bronner's super soap — highly-concentrated and scented with memories of NM lavender.MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-64754348378324901132015-05-26T07:47:00.003-07:002015-05-26T07:47:52.408-07:00When chaos overwhelms, take a break with sunset view from westside deck:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ym4MaLNaHgQinwfMpPOUuAUVlxcdqauGzMhMHUJsuh4Jq5OlVDinMaWM9YAT5BkvHxxUR7LY1XzkgyBBvbElnv64nTrq9h9L0cO5yArs-qXOVFHWQra2B_14jS40Wec4mLCKgDagc9Ps/s1600/Maysunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ym4MaLNaHgQinwfMpPOUuAUVlxcdqauGzMhMHUJsuh4Jq5OlVDinMaWM9YAT5BkvHxxUR7LY1XzkgyBBvbElnv64nTrq9h9L0cO5yArs-qXOVFHWQra2B_14jS40Wec4mLCKgDagc9Ps/s320/Maysunset.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-78934116856066861022015-05-24T18:51:00.000-07:002015-05-24T18:51:40.879-07:00Pre-pack chaosBarbara's cousin John Francis "helped" her pack for a cruise to Alaska with packing drinks — from the chaos seen below, I hope that several tilts of white wine will send me to Greece checking only one small rollaboard bag. We'll see!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQghMGHNHp6ehCm3fwTEs_YxBfQrd02g3LcA0nE7XPOCozpIJSs2HjgN49A3HiNufIxHrQDitFd82GW3w7p6VUMF91rvEYcN4R1j6tWzxTJx6nRyxGXCWlN-4IMoWHWRHf1EYRKkiVNoQ/s1600/packingchaos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQghMGHNHp6ehCm3fwTEs_YxBfQrd02g3LcA0nE7XPOCozpIJSs2HjgN49A3HiNufIxHrQDitFd82GW3w7p6VUMF91rvEYcN4R1j6tWzxTJx6nRyxGXCWlN-4IMoWHWRHf1EYRKkiVNoQ/s320/packingchaos.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting with chaotic piles — yes, that's four pairs of shoes on the floor!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-925930279897386612014-03-22T15:17:00.000-07:002014-03-22T15:17:34.430-07:00Leaving town<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8B7Q_X4aq5vxWgrnacfdFX7BRyitJpkH1qAowJyUpExupVM7zk9rpKIHCbZGT1qtsxs_hXK_UiXxMXGVNtFRp3rLrFFlqEm3tAZ9p51WpLdpvM4maVEOv4VIoJrIhKOjc4sIGwCxV3I/s1600/JA+Trescow+Ridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8B7Q_X4aq5vxWgrnacfdFX7BRyitJpkH1qAowJyUpExupVM7zk9rpKIHCbZGT1qtsxs_hXK_UiXxMXGVNtFRp3rLrFFlqEm3tAZ9p51WpLdpvM4maVEOv4VIoJrIhKOjc4sIGwCxV3I/s1600/JA+Trescow+Ridge.jpg" height="242" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ski season at <a href="http://skitaos.org/">Taos Ski Valley</a>'s almost over for me — heading to Treskow's steep chute through the trees a couple weeks ago. I promise you it's the camera lens, not the trees that are curving to the sky. Today is pre-pack time, gearing up to leave town for a bit. Look out for more info after next weekend. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As Barbara's brother-in-law used to say, this photo shows "the highlight of the frolic": hanging prayer flags at the top of Kachina Peak. </span><span id="goog_314864514"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgL5qC9PzYsxa1IEzj-3iPhW96hVeZDu59DZyMiorXgCSruBlWrdqD8ae8I1Z4prfSGtHWOA0GLXNe9Yr40X2_bZScEVFhOihG1sLipbmW-9JzxtAf8wXr_ImZuqf0qRAxoy-UQ2nLR-I/s1600/PrayerFlagsKachina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgL5qC9PzYsxa1IEzj-3iPhW96hVeZDu59DZyMiorXgCSruBlWrdqD8ae8I1Z4prfSGtHWOA0GLXNe9Yr40X2_bZScEVFhOihG1sLipbmW-9JzxtAf8wXr_ImZuqf0qRAxoy-UQ2nLR-I/s1600/PrayerFlagsKachina.jpg" height="128" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: start;">Hike takes about an hour and a half. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ski down took 5:30 minutes!! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For you numbers'-junkies: hike begins at top of chair 2, elevation is about 10,900 feet. After a steep twenty minute climb through trees to Highline Ridge and a slick traverse on skis across, not down!!, the <a href="http://blistergearreview.com/blister-resorts-2/taos-ski-valley">Kitchen Wall,</a> one hikes and hikes and hikes to reach Kachina's 12,450 foot top. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: center;">And for the really sharp-eyed among you— </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: center;">yes, </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: right;">
you do see golf clubs behind those prayer flags!</div>
</span><br />
<span id="goog_314864513"></span>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-52049068810258525462012-05-17T06:58:00.000-07:002012-05-17T06:58:16.977-07:00"So to Speak," Laila Lalami<a href="http://worldliteraturetoday.com/so-speak-laila-lalami#.T7UC6wGV0BU.blogger">"So to Speak," Laila Lalami</a><br />
<br />
Laila Lalami expresses in "the eloquent English language" points of value to anyone living, working, traveling, trying to understand how colonialism works through language. BRAVO to one of my favorite commentators on politics, society, and life.MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-10999812731759886382012-04-29T21:20:00.002-07:002012-04-29T21:20:09.428-07:00John Day Fossil Beds National Monument<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jxXKajTvojBOu-AE76B2OyFDjLFzg00V1zN1pXmeHFDPZuydJ5y0VlWywK_uFX1FreKbDEF3urH8iun9Oez7f9pWkDFPyQOfXJc3sctu_i3oYpz1JgVANzR33NNqOwTM2CHajpalnMw/s1600/2012-04-291.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jxXKajTvojBOu-AE76B2OyFDjLFzg00V1zN1pXmeHFDPZuydJ5y0VlWywK_uFX1FreKbDEF3urH8iun9Oez7f9pWkDFPyQOfXJc3sctu_i3oYpz1JgVANzR33NNqOwTM2CHajpalnMw/s400/2012-04-291.jpg" style="clear: both; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0;" /></a><br />
These fossils still lie on location in the Blue Basin of the <a href="http://www.nps.gov/joda/planyourvisit/maps.htm">John Day Fossil Beds National Monument</a>'s sheep rock section. We marveled at Oregon's contrasts: wet coastline, snow-capped mountains, lush wine-producing valleys, and towering tuff walls that enclose fossil beds.<br />
<br />
This monument holds an amazing treasure trove of information about some fascinating mammal fossils. No dinosaurs here! <br />
<br />
Mammals from the Cenozoic and previous eras lived here 15 to 44 million years ago. At that time this arid desert-like region was wet and swampy - thus the turtle shell fossil you see above. Later, volcanoes buried the swamps. Forests, savannahs, and finally deserts supplanted the wet pre-historic landscape. New mammals evolved with each environmental change.<br />
<br />
My favorite mammal fossil remains that ruminating swine, the <a href="http://www.fossilmuseum.net/fossil-art/cenozoic/oreodont/oreodont.htm">oreodont</a>!<br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: LEFT;">
<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; border: 0px none; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-18696800851451300702012-04-29T20:48:00.002-07:002012-04-29T20:48:37.237-07:00Wayside Shoe Tree<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVFeKQQXDTgIOZKSqvJZdPLV__RqTQO8eu6wgzcjGTO5x0ulb6YJNR0lyvgMzathwG1KBVSWNdPoEX4ugAGyf7FM3mmy2k8KAzPMxQ0a3t-vhbDqc35a4NJzqaZ-ywhQ1EFilaSgHhSkw/s1600/P1020315.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVFeKQQXDTgIOZKSqvJZdPLV__RqTQO8eu6wgzcjGTO5x0ulb6YJNR0lyvgMzathwG1KBVSWNdPoEX4ugAGyf7FM3mmy2k8KAzPMxQ0a3t-vhbDqc35a4NJzqaZ-ywhQ1EFilaSgHhSkw/s400/P1020315.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Just outside<a href="http://mitchelloregon.us/"> Mitchell, OR</a>, we </span><b>HAD</b> to stop and take a photo of this tree</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: white;">on our way to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: white;">We learned that these shoes send "happy trails" messages to travelers in the same way that Tibetan prayer flags send blessings with each waft on a breeze.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: CENTER;">
<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><span style="color: black;"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; border: 0px none; padding: 0px;" /></span></a></div>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-38334274892812751102012-04-27T10:03:00.000-07:002012-04-27T10:03:22.545-07:00High Desert Museum - near Bend, OR<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLC-W_4cYa-KXpqZQKJurpxLbXsmUB7NGgoRbqeOrIDLaSMpU_L52ApD0iW_5xYC6XIjp313k1jIW_WBTOLToxn-UIzBq8_7O5KZeuOPwDZyN94oCPepFCS0HnsP6Z1wa6-7vswhD1hg/s1600/P1020239.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLC-W_4cYa-KXpqZQKJurpxLbXsmUB7NGgoRbqeOrIDLaSMpU_L52ApD0iW_5xYC6XIjp313k1jIW_WBTOLToxn-UIzBq8_7O5KZeuOPwDZyN94oCPepFCS0HnsP6Z1wa6-7vswhD1hg/s400/P1020239.jpg" style="clear: both; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2xXtdsXnp5a2hW9wTyL-aqkv8rkouPCX4tnaoynK4LyMVsBHDAICdGD6gqQ7snRUCPkTF8OyjxDH85HtBpcZhWAd6UYvUZPYe7i85orMtaQUsTz-ZeTu3MK-ZUckPerNOl8s_Ao4tQA/s1600/P1020238.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2xXtdsXnp5a2hW9wTyL-aqkv8rkouPCX4tnaoynK4LyMVsBHDAICdGD6gqQ7snRUCPkTF8OyjxDH85HtBpcZhWAd6UYvUZPYe7i85orMtaQUsTz-ZeTu3MK-ZUckPerNOl8s_Ao4tQA/s400/P1020238.JPG" style="clear: both; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuhOKmt-a9yW_q3Uazm8yc350MsOx4ROX3LK5gzOaiIEtb7A9eVDfOSCISEOIbzZZxuW1mn1XKVNs22R1-c4NtHsE8cGCp49LKXvDaEK9KEoWyQZ8ty9C_skpt7N2Gol2Rlp-6uzhlo9Y/s1600/P1020237.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuhOKmt-a9yW_q3Uazm8yc350MsOx4ROX3LK5gzOaiIEtb7A9eVDfOSCISEOIbzZZxuW1mn1XKVNs22R1-c4NtHsE8cGCp49LKXvDaEK9KEoWyQZ8ty9C_skpt7N2Gol2Rlp-6uzhlo9Y/s400/P1020237.jpg" style="clear: both; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0;" /></a><br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: LEFT;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Barb and I stopped at the<a href="http://www.highdesertmuseum.org/about_the_museum/"> High Desert Museum</a> a few miles south of Bend off Highway 97, on our way to Crater Lake. Founded by Donald Kerr, a young biology student from Portland, it is both an interactive teaching museum and a home for rescued raptors and other high desert animals. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> We were introduced to this <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/gyrfalcon/lifehistory">gyrfalcon</a>, who is actually a transplant from a breeding facility in Pennsylvania. She is currently being trained as an aide for educational talks. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This curious female pecked and nipped at her handler looking for goodies, but it's her feet not her beak, one must treat warily. The claws are a falcon's most dangerous weapon, so they must be controlled at all times. You'll see that the handler has a very secure grip on those talons!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> This lovely lady-bird remained on a tight leash at our inside presentation, but during</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> the summer she may show off her flying ability. Then, visitors can watch falconry demonstrations in the museum's outside arena.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> As always in a museum, we managed to while away a few hours, meandering through the grounds, visiting other birds of prey, a working scale model of a sawmill (Bend's major industry until logging declined and micro-breweries took over :-), sleeping otters, and the Leapers and Creepers exhibit that included the beautiful <a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.turtlerescues.org/images/Sulcata%2520_Toby.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.turtlerescues.org/rescues.htm&h=427&w=640&sz=90&tbnid=RztitKcgvyk8hM:&tbnh=91&tbnw=136&zoom=1&docid=MOylqQwLDkSWCM&sa=X&ei=RNCaT5n5FeqmiQKUuPyqDg&ved=0CCwQ9QEwAA&dur=0">sulcata tortoise</a>.</span></div>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-4995138394823194872012-04-26T20:53:00.004-07:002012-04-26T20:53:43.329-07:00Yachats Beach<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTm3Nly3QrtFf-E7X_e1qz0VOsBAUpestQ6heTDPS6LLUDuupvDjPzFKyNdo-F5IdbJQiSOy_-PtMTE92LLQeee-k1D2bSS2NNkOxGcctGFZ1WBLASYRWw6pt8Ukrah_PqYJTDwGyeQpo/s1600/P1020257.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTm3Nly3QrtFf-E7X_e1qz0VOsBAUpestQ6heTDPS6LLUDuupvDjPzFKyNdo-F5IdbJQiSOy_-PtMTE92LLQeee-k1D2bSS2NNkOxGcctGFZ1WBLASYRWw6pt8Ukrah_PqYJTDwGyeQpo/s400/P1020257.jpg" style="clear: both; float: right; margin: 0 0 10px 10px;" /></a>Nature's art appears beneath my feet.<br />
<br />
A pause on our morning walk revealed gorgeous patterns of sand and water alongside a misplaced river rock.<br />
<br />
Not long after that brief stop, Barb and I encountered a man wearing a <a href="http://www.taoshockey.com/">Taos Hockey</a> baseball cap. Turns out Tom Dahaney (?) used to live on Upper Ranchitos Road in Taos, next door to Vanda, a friend with whom I sometimes ski!<br />
<br />
Small world, eh?<br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: RIGHT;">
<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; border: 0px none; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-61703171176176020142012-04-26T20:46:00.000-07:002012-04-26T20:46:04.037-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wCYFfqaMhHnoODRFom_A5ab9iY-VC7-MgX9UtwSqorrOAP4QJMmVOjp8PtbCtSkRXg0u5GQAqojao3DWv-Vxsm_NpKSb8DJHdWQ1R89q59Dh-wYFsaK_vPs9Kvxzxi83kuFbSE5PPDI/s1600/Recently+Updated3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wCYFfqaMhHnoODRFom_A5ab9iY-VC7-MgX9UtwSqorrOAP4QJMmVOjp8PtbCtSkRXg0u5GQAqojao3DWv-Vxsm_NpKSb8DJHdWQ1R89q59Dh-wYFsaK_vPs9Kvxzxi83kuFbSE5PPDI/s400/Recently+Updated3.jpg" style="clear: both; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0;" /></a> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We went to see Crater Lake, but it was (mostly) closed!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Janet, <a href="http://www.craterlakebandb.com/">Crater Lake B&B</a>'s gracious owner, was very generous with travel suggestions. Following her guidance, we drove up the hill and parked beside a ten-foot high snowbank at the entry to a plowed driveway. A short walk across the snow was all we needed to digi-capture the view. For anything beyond a quick look, we'd have needed lots more time and snowshoes or cross-country skis.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a good look, we headed west to Union Creek, where </span><a href="http://www.unioncreekoregon.com/beckies.htm" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Beckie's</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> serves homemade pie and simple supper. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't usually start off with dessert, but deep study of the menu led me to believe that pecan pie and red wine were my best option. I thoroughly enjoyed practicing the dictum that "Life is short, eat dessert first." Those nuts, sugar, and fermented fruit-sugar were not just best part of the meal - they're the only part I want to remember.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Neither Barb nor I would make a special trip to eat anything from Beckie's menu, and for sure, not the hum-drum apple pie! But we both agreed that Crater Lake could be worth a return visit when rim roads are open and we can take a boat ride across its spectacular blue.</span><br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: LEFT;">
<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; border: 0px none; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-12015687746812075212012-04-26T19:41:00.001-07:002012-04-26T19:41:41.397-07:00Bend, OR<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CwV_nor5_WQOp_FqNWqXiB981HAcOYsC8F7anbkkkXsDA0ZsZlDi_od6_25xvGUN4gZz_Ow4ymw4zs6t4xGwpeogoGtmSY0vi-v7aubWNuUCZYESANNjC5-b4QukIOVTX5WTDfPbkPc/s1600/P1020223.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CwV_nor5_WQOp_FqNWqXiB981HAcOYsC8F7anbkkkXsDA0ZsZlDi_od6_25xvGUN4gZz_Ow4ymw4zs6t4xGwpeogoGtmSY0vi-v7aubWNuUCZYESANNjC5-b4QukIOVTX5WTDfPbkPc/s400/P1020223.JPG" /></a><br />
Cascades view from Riverwalk<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Evoked a moment of envy - an active, lively downtown filled with micro-breweries and smell-good eateries just a block from this walk along the river to <a href="http://www.shakespearebend.com/">Drake Park</a>. It's got everything from reasonably polite geese to Shakespeare: doggone nice - and lots of dogs walking through think so, too!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div style='clear:both; text-align:CENTER'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-9935369410941849422012-04-25T21:41:00.002-07:002012-04-25T21:41:39.172-07:00Mill Inn, Bend, OR #2<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZ9vckMBHlrRtR7mG_4JbnO3jhJoNYUUjA7JukdgefQi61YzeB8vC7MXrtGdfsY4h4dcL8e6meq8hd1Csftqe5bFn7ign9WKpOK-p8DuKXiZ1-kfShP-5hsTVEubkZpt8FAa3BVEv_R8/s1600/Recently+Updated2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZ9vckMBHlrRtR7mG_4JbnO3jhJoNYUUjA7JukdgefQi61YzeB8vC7MXrtGdfsY4h4dcL8e6meq8hd1Csftqe5bFn7ign9WKpOK-p8DuKXiZ1-kfShP-5hsTVEubkZpt8FAa3BVEv_R8/s400/Recently+Updated2.jpg" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Does your chewing gum lose its flavor on the bedpost overnight?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Maybe you noticed the bedboards on the fence behind the Statue of Liberty in Barb's photo....if not, here's your chance to get a closer look. Yep, when you don't know how to give some pizzazz to a parking lot fence, just add a headboard or two or half a dozen. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Mill Inn offers visual delight in every corner, wall, fence, and cranny. In fact, at one point, I looked up to find an artificial owl perched overhead. My favorite room was the second floor front right - the ski room with an old-fashioned toboggan on the wall serving as a coat or towel rack. (You get to choose.)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I slept in the <a href="http://www.millinn.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=58&Itemid=62">golf room</a> - adorned with antique golf clubs, golf photos, golf mementos; if it had to do with golf, you'd find it somewhere in room 5.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mom - you'd have felt right at home here :-)</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: CENTER;">
<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; border: 0px none; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7706696838631059735.post-86499336969206167062012-04-25T20:46:00.000-07:002012-04-25T20:46:18.666-07:00Mill Inn, Bend, OR<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUNhel0Za6G4lmOtjOtk0v11EP5AYakD0HI6WeWPGy_vUle1W6oTCgjlMD_2DnWsxj38W7ioCk35L0prUBZjcujPrw0WhEy46m-zM_J3yHPocddh6dxLrKXtEyaWmttK_jA0pJ177umY/s1600/P1020234.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUNhel0Za6G4lmOtjOtk0v11EP5AYakD0HI6WeWPGy_vUle1W6oTCgjlMD_2DnWsxj38W7ioCk35L0prUBZjcujPrw0WhEy46m-zM_J3yHPocddh6dxLrKXtEyaWmttK_jA0pJ177umY/s400/P1020234.jpg" style="clear: both; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0;" /></a><br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: LEFT;">
Lady Liberty Transplanted?<br />
<br />
The Mill Inn, a landmark B&B in Bend, OR, reflects the B<a href="http://www.bendbulletin.com/article/20051226/BIZ0102/512260305/">rooklyn upbringing of its late owner</a>. Whenever you ask about this statue, the locals in Bend have learned the appropriate response:,"Fuh-gett-about-it!!!" Though the building is owned by an educational institution, its gracious and cheerful manager, Dave, provided a breakfast to die for - starting with bowls of coffee, fresh fruit and drop scones, oj in a frozen carafe, Belgian waffles with cinnamon-dusted bananas — and it didn't end there. Quiche with avocados atop AND he insisted on sending us on the road with more scones. Dave is Bend-born and proud of it: <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/travel/2017809710_trbend25.html">speaking readily on its behalf </a>in a Seattle Times article about the many breweries on its Ale Trail<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; border: 0px none; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>MJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15507729295653510935noreply@blogger.com0