I am very far behind on updating this blog. Sorry to all of you who check regularly, but, at the end of the day, the last thing I want to do is compose any postings or wait for pics to upload.
However, after nearly eight months (7 months, 25 days to be exact, but who's counting?), I am finally being released from this Minnesota assignment. Apr 13 - Dec 8. I sort of don't know what to do with myself. I dreaded this assignment because of the rumors that I'd heard about working here, but this has actually been a very smooth experience (despite its length). I even like the Minneapolis - St. Paul area a lot.
I have a few last postings "in the queue" that I will put up soon. I am driving home on Sunday, and then I'll be making a trip out west for my brother and his family. I'll try to update the last MN postings in the days between that I'm home.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Monday, November 3, 2008
Say a prayer for the pretender, Part 2
Vote for Change in the IL 17th Congressional District
October 27, 2008
Dear Conscientious, Patriotic Voter:
I would like to introduce your write-in candidate of choice, Michael Simpson, for the Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Michael wants to offer a clear alternative to the singular option that is provided as your representative to the U.S. House of Representatives. Rep. Phil Hare has been serving out the remainder of Rep. Lane Evan's term since 2007, and he is currently running unopposed in what is sure to become the most hotly contested congressional race in the nation. Michael Simpson is looking to give you hope, by providing real change in Washington.
Michael has a distinguished career as a Commander and Naval Flight Officer in the U.S. Navy, and he is an Iraq War veteran. He has spent more than ten years putting country first. His wife of 3 years, Karen, and their 10 month old daughter, Morgan, have given Michael the inspiration to pursue this new direction in public service. He believes his pursuit for a sensible plan to government will ensure a bright future for his lovely daughter and future generations.
Please don't fall into the trap of political party factions by voting for the only choice that party leaders dictate. Join me in seeking an alternative to the status quo in Washington, and write-in your vote for Michael Simpson to the U.S. Congress. He wants to be your representative in the 111th Congress.
If you are a recipient of this e-mail, then you either reside in the Illinois' 17th District (please refer to map in link), or you may know someone in this district who would be interested in lending their support for this write-in candidate.
In this election season, don't vote for just any brother; vote for mine.
Write-in: Michael Simpson, For Representative In Congress (Seventeenth Congressional District).
Patriotically yours,
Steve Simpson
Campaign Manager
The Committee for Write-In Candidate, Michael Simpson
October 27, 2008
Dear Conscientious, Patriotic Voter:
I would like to introduce your write-in candidate of choice, Michael Simpson, for the Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Michael wants to offer a clear alternative to the singular option that is provided as your representative to the U.S. House of Representatives. Rep. Phil Hare has been serving out the remainder of Rep. Lane Evan's term since 2007, and he is currently running unopposed in what is sure to become the most hotly contested congressional race in the nation. Michael Simpson is looking to give you hope, by providing real change in Washington.
Michael has a distinguished career as a Commander and Naval Flight Officer in the U.S. Navy, and he is an Iraq War veteran. He has spent more than ten years putting country first. His wife of 3 years, Karen, and their 10 month old daughter, Morgan, have given Michael the inspiration to pursue this new direction in public service. He believes his pursuit for a sensible plan to government will ensure a bright future for his lovely daughter and future generations.
Please don't fall into the trap of political party factions by voting for the only choice that party leaders dictate. Join me in seeking an alternative to the status quo in Washington, and write-in your vote for Michael Simpson to the U.S. Congress. He wants to be your representative in the 111th Congress.
If you are a recipient of this e-mail, then you either reside in the Illinois' 17th District (please refer to map in link), or you may know someone in this district who would be interested in lending their support for this write-in candidate.
In this election season, don't vote for just any brother; vote for mine.
Write-in: Michael Simpson, For Representative In Congress (Seventeenth Congressional District).
Patriotically yours,
Steve Simpson
Campaign Manager
The Committee for Write-In Candidate, Michael Simpson
Say a prayer for the pretender
When asked for whom I'm voting, McCain or Obama, I've been replying that I'm voting for Bob Barr. Last week (by absentee ballot), I voted for a "third party" candidate for the first time in 16 years of voting. This is probably the most confident vote I've made for anyone in that time, and I have no illusions of him winning.
I was going to explain my vote in detail, but this is my third attempt in posting tonight. So, instead, there are others who have expressed some similar sentiments here, here, here, and especially here. It's a little more complicated than that, but those views should give you an idea from where I'm coming.
So, for everyone who thinks that I wasted my vote, apparently, it's all my fault: This is pretty funny. (Thanks, Kim)
I was going to explain my vote in detail, but this is my third attempt in posting tonight. So, instead, there are others who have expressed some similar sentiments here, here, here, and especially here. It's a little more complicated than that, but those views should give you an idea from where I'm coming.
So, for everyone who thinks that I wasted my vote, apparently, it's all my fault: This is pretty funny. (Thanks, Kim)
Monday, October 20, 2008
Out Ta Get Me
The ‘man’ has tried to keep me down, so I’ve been laying low the last few weeks after a run-in with the law. Sometimes, I can be a creature of habit, and the cops in Maple Grove, MN decided to make an example of my meandering ways. What crime did I commit? Taking a walk, after dark …without papers.
Most nights I take a walk from my hotel over to the Town Centre mall, The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes. It’s an outdoor mall, and I usually walk to Border’s at the opposite end from my hotel and back. The rent-a-cops at the mall have never bothered me, but watch out when it comes to the real po-po. On the way back, I always cut through the well-lit parking lot of a Hampton Inn and walk the curb in front of the office building next to my hotel (there is not a sidewalk here). I took the same route I’ve taken every night for the past six months, but on this occasion a police car pulled up behind me on the curb and turned on his flashers.
Now, I had a pretty good idea at that time why he was pulling me over, but keep in mind that I had not (at least knowingly) done a single thing illegal for the entire night (and that’s difficult for anyone to do in this day and age). So, the question that immediately popped into my head is, what right does he have to stop and detain me? Remember, I am unabashedly libertarian, and I strongly believe adhering to all of our constitutional rights is essential to our liberty in this country.
Time: 9:30 pm (10/9/08). The officer got out of his car, and I asked him what he wanted. He asked why I had been in the parking lot of the Hampton Inn. I explained that I was walking back to my hotel, and I didn’t want to walk in the street. He asked me where I am staying, and I pointed next door to where I was standing. He asked me where I had been. I explained that I was returning from Border’s (I had actually gone in for a late evening macchiato). Up to this point, I had been polite with his questions, since I can tolerate a minor inconvenience – even if I feel he is violating my constitutional rights. The cop then asked for my name, and I gave him my first name only (cordiality was gone with the wind now). He took out his notebook and wrote my name, and then he asked for my last name. I gave him my last name, and then I asked why he needed my name. He asked me where I am from. That is the toughest question for me, so I answered truthfully: I am from Illinois, but I live in St. Louis (I will never be from Missouri). He asked to see my ID (Gestapo alert). I told him I didn’t have it on me, since I was only carrying my room key. I showed him my room key-card that is clearly from my hotel. He asked why I was in Minnesota, and I explained my profession and my employer. He then asked how long I am staying here, so I explained I’ve been here six months and have absolutely no idea how much longer I will be here.
During his questioning, another police car showed up behind the first one, and the new cop turned on his emergency flashers. The first officer continued his questioning and wanted my address in St. Louis. At this point, I was really annoyed (apparently all crime in Maple Grove has been solved), but I considered the alternative to not cooperating. I really wasn’t in the mood to getting tasered, since I just wanted to get back to my room and go to bed. I advised my address, and then he asked for my hotel room number. That’s where I hit the brakes, and I told him I was not giving him my room number under any circumstances. He explained there have been numerous vehicle break-ins at the hotels in the area (which is the reason I assumed he was stopping me). I explained I was aware of the break-ins, because a few people from my company have been victims. He acknowledged that I was aware of the break-ins, but I thought they probably occurred much later in the night (early morning).
He told me to wait on the curb and he would get back to me. He turned and met with the second officer, who had been standing back this entire time. The first officer got in his squad car, and I guess he had SCMODS (Blues Brothers, anyone?). The second officer just hung outside the first squad car, but then a third police car showed up from the other direction and turned on his flashers. The, very young, cop got out and nodded at me and walked to the first police car. The new cop asked me what was going on, and I told him I had no idea since I was just walking back to my hotel. The three of them talked for a few minutes, and then the third cop walked back to the front of his car and stood there. He then took a stance to be prepared if I were to run away (at what point did I become a flight risk?).
I stood there like an idiot on the curb for another fifteen minutes surrounded by three police cars, with their cherries rolling. Oh yeah, I was wearing a hoodie sweatshirt and a Cardinals hat, if that means anything. Several cars passed and stared at me; who only knows what they were thinking, but I’m just glad nobody I work with passed. The second cop finished talking with the first one, and then he got in his car and left. One down, with two to go.
The first cop came back to me and thanked me for cooperating. He told me they were stepping up patrols because of the break-ins, but I didn’t see how that meant it was okay to stop me for taking a walk. He made no mention of any recent break-ins, and I had not heard of any for a couple months. He talked with me for a few more minutes about the need to keep an eye on people, and then he let me go. I just turned and walked away without saying a word. I arrived back in my room at 10:20 pm. Fifty minutes of being detained without any probable cause. The Fourth Amendment just rolled over in its grave …again.
I suppose I should consider myself lucky, seeing as this guy ended up in cuffs for not providing an ID in his own home …to building inspectors.
I’ve gone for a walk almost every night since then around the same time, but I have not been stopped again. Yes, I’m annoyed at being stopped, but more than anything, I’m upset about the ridiculousness of the situation. There was no valid reason to stop me, and once I gave a legitimate explanation what I was doing then he should have moved along.
Do you really think the police should be able stop and detain anyone without cause? Since when is it necessary to have an ID to take a walk? What do you think he accomplished (other than pissing me off) by detaining me for nearly an hour?
Most nights I take a walk from my hotel over to the Town Centre mall, The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes. It’s an outdoor mall, and I usually walk to Border’s at the opposite end from my hotel and back. The rent-a-cops at the mall have never bothered me, but watch out when it comes to the real po-po. On the way back, I always cut through the well-lit parking lot of a Hampton Inn and walk the curb in front of the office building next to my hotel (there is not a sidewalk here). I took the same route I’ve taken every night for the past six months, but on this occasion a police car pulled up behind me on the curb and turned on his flashers.
Now, I had a pretty good idea at that time why he was pulling me over, but keep in mind that I had not (at least knowingly) done a single thing illegal for the entire night (and that’s difficult for anyone to do in this day and age). So, the question that immediately popped into my head is, what right does he have to stop and detain me? Remember, I am unabashedly libertarian, and I strongly believe adhering to all of our constitutional rights is essential to our liberty in this country.
Time: 9:30 pm (10/9/08). The officer got out of his car, and I asked him what he wanted. He asked why I had been in the parking lot of the Hampton Inn. I explained that I was walking back to my hotel, and I didn’t want to walk in the street. He asked me where I am staying, and I pointed next door to where I was standing. He asked me where I had been. I explained that I was returning from Border’s (I had actually gone in for a late evening macchiato). Up to this point, I had been polite with his questions, since I can tolerate a minor inconvenience – even if I feel he is violating my constitutional rights. The cop then asked for my name, and I gave him my first name only (cordiality was gone with the wind now). He took out his notebook and wrote my name, and then he asked for my last name. I gave him my last name, and then I asked why he needed my name. He asked me where I am from. That is the toughest question for me, so I answered truthfully: I am from Illinois, but I live in St. Louis (I will never be from Missouri). He asked to see my ID (Gestapo alert). I told him I didn’t have it on me, since I was only carrying my room key. I showed him my room key-card that is clearly from my hotel. He asked why I was in Minnesota, and I explained my profession and my employer. He then asked how long I am staying here, so I explained I’ve been here six months and have absolutely no idea how much longer I will be here.
During his questioning, another police car showed up behind the first one, and the new cop turned on his emergency flashers. The first officer continued his questioning and wanted my address in St. Louis. At this point, I was really annoyed (apparently all crime in Maple Grove has been solved), but I considered the alternative to not cooperating. I really wasn’t in the mood to getting tasered, since I just wanted to get back to my room and go to bed. I advised my address, and then he asked for my hotel room number. That’s where I hit the brakes, and I told him I was not giving him my room number under any circumstances. He explained there have been numerous vehicle break-ins at the hotels in the area (which is the reason I assumed he was stopping me). I explained I was aware of the break-ins, because a few people from my company have been victims. He acknowledged that I was aware of the break-ins, but I thought they probably occurred much later in the night (early morning).
He told me to wait on the curb and he would get back to me. He turned and met with the second officer, who had been standing back this entire time. The first officer got in his squad car, and I guess he had SCMODS (Blues Brothers, anyone?). The second officer just hung outside the first squad car, but then a third police car showed up from the other direction and turned on his flashers. The, very young, cop got out and nodded at me and walked to the first police car. The new cop asked me what was going on, and I told him I had no idea since I was just walking back to my hotel. The three of them talked for a few minutes, and then the third cop walked back to the front of his car and stood there. He then took a stance to be prepared if I were to run away (at what point did I become a flight risk?).
I stood there like an idiot on the curb for another fifteen minutes surrounded by three police cars, with their cherries rolling. Oh yeah, I was wearing a hoodie sweatshirt and a Cardinals hat, if that means anything. Several cars passed and stared at me; who only knows what they were thinking, but I’m just glad nobody I work with passed. The second cop finished talking with the first one, and then he got in his car and left. One down, with two to go.
The first cop came back to me and thanked me for cooperating. He told me they were stepping up patrols because of the break-ins, but I didn’t see how that meant it was okay to stop me for taking a walk. He made no mention of any recent break-ins, and I had not heard of any for a couple months. He talked with me for a few more minutes about the need to keep an eye on people, and then he let me go. I just turned and walked away without saying a word. I arrived back in my room at 10:20 pm. Fifty minutes of being detained without any probable cause. The Fourth Amendment just rolled over in its grave …again.
I suppose I should consider myself lucky, seeing as this guy ended up in cuffs for not providing an ID in his own home …to building inspectors.
I’ve gone for a walk almost every night since then around the same time, but I have not been stopped again. Yes, I’m annoyed at being stopped, but more than anything, I’m upset about the ridiculousness of the situation. There was no valid reason to stop me, and once I gave a legitimate explanation what I was doing then he should have moved along.
Do you really think the police should be able stop and detain anyone without cause? Since when is it necessary to have an ID to take a walk? What do you think he accomplished (other than pissing me off) by detaining me for nearly an hour?
Thursday, October 2, 2008
It's good to touch, the green green grass of home
I had a brief reprieve this past weekend for some R&R at home. I didn't get much rest or relaxation since I went to the Cardinals game on Saturday night. It was great to see the Cards have a strong finish to their season, and this team had more success than anyone predicted.
And I went to the Rams game on Sunday. I watched Scott Linehan's last day on the job, and there was no question he was getting fired after that game.
And I went to the Rams game on Sunday. I watched Scott Linehan's last day on the job, and there was no question he was getting fired after that game.
I'm back in Minnesota, and I'm apparently here for the long haul. There seems no end in sight for this assignment. Unfortunately, the White Sox beat the Twins for the AL Wild Card, so there won't be any October baseball in MSP.
Dreams walking in broad daylight
This is my response in an e-mail conversation I had the other day about "the bailout."
Perhaps what I said was somewhat prescient. This is part of what the Senate passed yesterday:
I tend to believe the best government action is inaction.
UPDATE: Taxpayers For Common Sense posted the Top 10 Tax Sweeteners of the Senate's "Bailout Bill."
I don't claim to have a strong economics background, by any means. However, I do try to understand. I tend to agree with Milton Friedman on most things financial and political (I'm, small L, libertarian -- non-party affiliated). "When it comes to free markets, you have to have loss for there to be gains." I believe that is what risk is all about. However, I don't think we truly have a free market here, but it's definitely not socialism (yet). So, I grudgingly agree that the government may have to help out in a situation of their making (Fannie/Freddie). I think the plan defeated yesterday was terrible, and I'm scared what they will come up with next. Bush 41 seemed to have a good plan for the S&Ls, but I don't think this is going to end as well.
My problem being that I don't own a home, and a bailout will probably make it more difficult for me to own. There is no way I would ever take an ARM, and a few years ago I couldn't afford a fixed-rate. Houses are so inflated right now, that I don't see much opportunity for me unless the people who over-extended themselves actually fail. That may be cold, but that's the reality of it. Also, I see this bailout as a temporary fix. Without bankruptcies, I think this situation will probably rear its head again down the road. There is a remedy (let the market correct itself), but people blame politicians for their own problems and politicians CYA.
I didn't make these mistakes, yet I'm going to have to pay for it. So much for managing my own risk...
Perhaps what I said was somewhat prescient. This is part of what the Senate passed yesterday:
Isn't that part of what got us Enron and the accounting scandals? Now, instead of hiding losses in off-shore shell companies, now they just don't have to report it to investors. How is that fair (or accurate) for interested parties?House Republicans also welcomed a decision Tuesday by the Securities and Exchange Commission to ease rules that force companies to devalue assets on their balance sheets to reflect the price they can get on the market.
I tend to believe the best government action is inaction.
UPDATE: Taxpayers For Common Sense posted the Top 10 Tax Sweeteners of the Senate's "Bailout Bill."
Monday, September 8, 2008
Gotta catch you later
I had a nice weekend away from Minnesota over Labor Day weekend. On Friday, the 29th, I golfed with my dad, brother, and Uncle Dave in the Jake Lessen Memorial Golf Outing. It was a beautiful day, and we had a great time remembering Jake. It was great to visit with friends and family that I haven't seen for a long time. It's too bad that I kept hitting it to the other fairways.
-
As I promised, here is a photo of my two red-headed step-sisters, Janell Woolard (center), and Jenni Humphries (right). Also pictured is Biennial Fan, Cheryl Boyd (left). Of course, the day wouldn't have been complete without getting the red-headed step-child treatment. ;-)
-
-
On Sunday, all of my siblings and their children came down to St. Louis, and we spent the day at the zoo and Forest Park. Here are some pics of my family:
-
It looks like Morgan is going to be a rocker. I think I'll have to get her a jean jacket for her 16th birthday.
-
-
Addi wasn't too sure about playing in the waterfall at the zoo, so she decided to stick close to her mommy.
-
-
After some help from Mike, Matt finally got the courage to run into the waterfall and splash around.
-
-
Here is a pic of all of us at the zoo.
-
-
I returned to Minnesota on Tuesday. No changes in plan as yet, but there are some possibilities on the horizon. Right now, Fall is coming to the north. The high temp today was 60 degrees. I made a pact this weekend with a buddy up here that we will grow out our beards again if we're still here on October 1.
-
As I promised, here is a photo of my two red-headed step-sisters, Janell Woolard (center), and Jenni Humphries (right). Also pictured is Biennial Fan, Cheryl Boyd (left). Of course, the day wouldn't have been complete without getting the red-headed step-child treatment. ;-)
-
-
On Sunday, all of my siblings and their children came down to St. Louis, and we spent the day at the zoo and Forest Park. Here are some pics of my family:
-
It looks like Morgan is going to be a rocker. I think I'll have to get her a jean jacket for her 16th birthday.
-
-
Addi wasn't too sure about playing in the waterfall at the zoo, so she decided to stick close to her mommy.
-
-
After some help from Mike, Matt finally got the courage to run into the waterfall and splash around.
-
-
Here is a pic of all of us at the zoo.
-
-
I returned to Minnesota on Tuesday. No changes in plan as yet, but there are some possibilities on the horizon. Right now, Fall is coming to the north. The high temp today was 60 degrees. I made a pact this weekend with a buddy up here that we will grow out our beards again if we're still here on October 1.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
They took all the trees; Put em in a tree museum
I made a trip to the Minnesota Arboretum in Chaska, MN a couple weeks ago. I found out an arboretum is basically just a botanical garden. It is a pretty place, but I think they charge too much (much more "than a dollar and a half to see them"). I always wanted to go to the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, IL, however I never have gone there.
-
Here are some pics from around the MN arboretum:
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
That's it for pretty pictures, for now. I'm heading 'home' tomorrow for some time with my family. I will be coming back to Minnesota on Tuesday, however we'll see what happens with Hurricane Gustav.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Sopapilla, sopapilla, penzaway
I was home last week for some much needed R&R, and with 10 days off I had two days to myself. I had a lot of fun in Chicago, Nashville, Illinois and St. Louis, so it's good that things have slowed a bit here in MN. I flew home on the 24th, and then I turned around the next morning and flew to Chicago and back for a Cubs game with friends on the 25th. Then I drove to Nashville for a weekend with my friends, Scott & Natalie. After a much needed trip to the dentist, I drove to Illinois to visit family. My sister, Jennifer, and niece, Sheradan, came down this past weekend for fun in St. Louis at City Museum (I honestly think I have more fun there than my niece does). Oh, I finally got a couch for my apartment! To end my week, I went out for dinner to a new restaurant down the street from my place, Beso.
This brings me to my first restaurant review (I previously have reviewed a burger, but not the restaurant). This is the worst Mexican restaurant I've ever been, and strongly recommend never going there. They seem to be a popular sidewalk cafe downtown, but it was 98 degrees Sunday evening and I like air conditioning. So, I decided to sit at the bar, but the bartender was immediately disgruntled that I was his only customer. He also served me the wrong beer, and I had to send it back. I ordered the guacamole with chips as an appetizer, since the measure of any Mexican restaurant is as good as their guac and they claimed to make theirs fresh upon ordering. Unbelievably awful, slimy guacamole. I didn't know it was possible to screw it up that bad, but it had more cilantro than avocado. I didn't even finish it, and I believe they pretty much sealed their fate from that point forward. I ordered the pork chimichanga which was okay (but no sour cream!?), but I will say the only bright spot of the meal were the refried beans. I like beans, but these were delicious refried. There was some kind of spice mixed in that really added flavor. After all that, could it have been worse? It was. I don't think they have air conditioning, and I was dripping by the end of my meal. Dripping. I think my swass was showing on my walk home (through one of the trendiest and busiest districts in St. Louis on a game night).
The next day upon arriving back in Minnesota, I had to eat lunch at Don Pablo's to get the taste out of my mouth from the previous night. I will drive to Illinois or West County for Casa Gallardo from now on, where I've never had a bad meal (only a bad date). Also, I have since discovered that St. Louis has a Little Mexico district with supposedly great food. I'll need to check that out in the next few months.
Not to mention I will probably never try the new Senior Julio's in Union Station, since they can't even spell Senor correctly. They even included the tilde over the n, but they still added an i?
This brings me to my first restaurant review (I previously have reviewed a burger, but not the restaurant). This is the worst Mexican restaurant I've ever been, and strongly recommend never going there. They seem to be a popular sidewalk cafe downtown, but it was 98 degrees Sunday evening and I like air conditioning. So, I decided to sit at the bar, but the bartender was immediately disgruntled that I was his only customer. He also served me the wrong beer, and I had to send it back. I ordered the guacamole with chips as an appetizer, since the measure of any Mexican restaurant is as good as their guac and they claimed to make theirs fresh upon ordering. Unbelievably awful, slimy guacamole. I didn't know it was possible to screw it up that bad, but it had more cilantro than avocado. I didn't even finish it, and I believe they pretty much sealed their fate from that point forward. I ordered the pork chimichanga which was okay (but no sour cream!?), but I will say the only bright spot of the meal were the refried beans. I like beans, but these were delicious refried. There was some kind of spice mixed in that really added flavor. After all that, could it have been worse? It was. I don't think they have air conditioning, and I was dripping by the end of my meal. Dripping. I think my swass was showing on my walk home (through one of the trendiest and busiest districts in St. Louis on a game night).
The next day upon arriving back in Minnesota, I had to eat lunch at Don Pablo's to get the taste out of my mouth from the previous night. I will drive to Illinois or West County for Casa Gallardo from now on, where I've never had a bad meal (only a bad date). Also, I have since discovered that St. Louis has a Little Mexico district with supposedly great food. I'll need to check that out in the next few months.
Not to mention I will probably never try the new Senior Julio's in Union Station, since they can't even spell Senor correctly. They even included the tilde over the n, but they still added an i?
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Making Love Out Of Nothing At All
There has been a recent trend of bloggers posting their first 10 shuffles on their IPods as a snapshot into their musical tastes. I thought it was funny and decided to post. I’m not ashamed by the majority of my music.
First ten shuffle songs on my IPod:
1. “Come Back Home” by Pete Yorn
2. “The Goat [Outtake]” by Randy Newman
3. “Slave” by David Garza
4. “I Want To Be Free” by Elvis Presley
5. “Fool For Love” by Sandy Rogers
6. “Paralyzed” by Elvis Presley
7. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” by The Brian Setzer Orchestra
8. “Do The Right Thing” by George Strait
9. “Could You Be Loved” by Bob Marley & The Wailers
10. “It’s Midnight Cinderella” by Garth Brooks
I swear this wasn’t edited (I thought it was kind of boring), and there are a few songs on there I skip if when they play. I have over 7500 songs in my ITunes, and I don’t even like all of them.
Radley Balko upped the ante on his blog. He pointed out that many people don’t have any truly embarrassing songs listed on their shuffle, so he challenged people to post their 5 most embarrassing songs. Believe me, I have many more than just five songs for which I’m embarrassed, but even more so the following are songs I really do enjoy listening (and that’s not easy to own up). The songs are not ranked, because they are all equally embarrassing.
5 most embarrassing guilty pleasures:
“Teardrops On My Guitar” by Taylor Swift
“Xanadu” by Olivia Newton-John
“Big Girls Don’t Cry” by Fergie
“We Belong Together” by Mariah Carey
“Rock Your Body” by Justin Timberlake
I'm not really sure that I can explain why I like these songs. This is a very small sample of music that I have, so I still feel every right to retain my man card. I have more Elvis, Frank & Willie than anything else. 'Nuff said.
First ten shuffle songs on my IPod:
1. “Come Back Home” by Pete Yorn
2. “The Goat [Outtake]” by Randy Newman
3. “Slave” by David Garza
4. “I Want To Be Free” by Elvis Presley
5. “Fool For Love” by Sandy Rogers
6. “Paralyzed” by Elvis Presley
7. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” by The Brian Setzer Orchestra
8. “Do The Right Thing” by George Strait
9. “Could You Be Loved” by Bob Marley & The Wailers
10. “It’s Midnight Cinderella” by Garth Brooks
I swear this wasn’t edited (I thought it was kind of boring), and there are a few songs on there I skip if when they play. I have over 7500 songs in my ITunes, and I don’t even like all of them.
Radley Balko upped the ante on his blog. He pointed out that many people don’t have any truly embarrassing songs listed on their shuffle, so he challenged people to post their 5 most embarrassing songs. Believe me, I have many more than just five songs for which I’m embarrassed, but even more so the following are songs I really do enjoy listening (and that’s not easy to own up). The songs are not ranked, because they are all equally embarrassing.
5 most embarrassing guilty pleasures:
“Teardrops On My Guitar” by Taylor Swift
“Xanadu” by Olivia Newton-John
“Big Girls Don’t Cry” by Fergie
“We Belong Together” by Mariah Carey
“Rock Your Body” by Justin Timberlake
I'm not really sure that I can explain why I like these songs. This is a very small sample of music that I have, so I still feel every right to retain my man card. I have more Elvis, Frank & Willie than anything else. 'Nuff said.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Well we know where we're goin', But we don't know where we've been
July 10 marked the two year anniversary in my current job. Hence the name of this blog (and the fact I suggested I'd only be doing this for 2 years), you'd think there may be some change on the horizon. ... Well, not for now, or at least nothing significant.
My job, as a catastrophe adjuster, has turned out entirely different from what I was told when hired. Most of the promises/assurances about taking on this new life have been broken, and the majority of the moves by my employer have not been particularly positive. To point, I feel I'm under-paid and quality of life sucks. The so-called perks of my job are only a mask for the difficulties. Some of this I've shared with a few of you, but I know I've never quite painted the big picture. Because, with all of the hardships I face everyday (and I do mean every day), it doesn't seem right to complain when I, in fact, love my job.
I've been working in insurance for the better part of the last 10 years, and this is the first time I've ever enjoyed my job -- in this industry (I have also enjoyed selling shoes and working in the music business). Yet, I know I have not had to work in a truly difficult situation, and (most notably) there haven't been any hurricanes since I started. I do wonder what kind of long-term future I have with my employer, but I have career goals I want to accomplish in the next few years before I cross that bridge. How and where things will happen has yet to be determined.
Despite whatever burdens may be carried, I love this cowboy life I'm living. I chose this career with the full knowledge that my way of life would change, and I have not once regretted my decision. Some days I contemplate how long I can do this, and then the next day I wonder how I could do anything else. The autonomy and responsibility I have are unmatched with any other job I've had, but more importantly (and as cliche as it may be) I'm "delivering the promise." Despite any grievances with management decisions, I truly respect the company ethos and the way we conduct our business.
-
We can never plan with any certainty in life. The last two years confirmed my knowledge I don't have a clue about anything in the future. So, right now I'm only trying to get over the next hump. And, things are always subject to change.
_
The following pic is another day at the office (taken at Lake Mille Lacs in Garrison, MN):
_
My job, as a catastrophe adjuster, has turned out entirely different from what I was told when hired. Most of the promises/assurances about taking on this new life have been broken, and the majority of the moves by my employer have not been particularly positive. To point, I feel I'm under-paid and quality of life sucks. The so-called perks of my job are only a mask for the difficulties. Some of this I've shared with a few of you, but I know I've never quite painted the big picture. Because, with all of the hardships I face everyday (and I do mean every day), it doesn't seem right to complain when I, in fact, love my job.
I've been working in insurance for the better part of the last 10 years, and this is the first time I've ever enjoyed my job -- in this industry (I have also enjoyed selling shoes and working in the music business). Yet, I know I have not had to work in a truly difficult situation, and (most notably) there haven't been any hurricanes since I started. I do wonder what kind of long-term future I have with my employer, but I have career goals I want to accomplish in the next few years before I cross that bridge. How and where things will happen has yet to be determined.
Despite whatever burdens may be carried, I love this cowboy life I'm living. I chose this career with the full knowledge that my way of life would change, and I have not once regretted my decision. Some days I contemplate how long I can do this, and then the next day I wonder how I could do anything else. The autonomy and responsibility I have are unmatched with any other job I've had, but more importantly (and as cliche as it may be) I'm "delivering the promise." Despite any grievances with management decisions, I truly respect the company ethos and the way we conduct our business.
-
We can never plan with any certainty in life. The last two years confirmed my knowledge I don't have a clue about anything in the future. So, right now I'm only trying to get over the next hump. And, things are always subject to change.
_
The following pic is another day at the office (taken at Lake Mille Lacs in Garrison, MN):
_
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Counted the stars on the 4th of July
I went to downtown Minneapolis for the fireworks show, last night. The show didn't start until after 10 PM, because it stays light for longer up here. However, I finally got some decent pics of the skyline.
-
-
-
Standing on a pedestrian bridge on the Mississippi River overlooking St. Anthony's Falls.
_
-
Here is a video of the finale ...except for the last 10 seconds.
-
-
-
Standing on a pedestrian bridge on the Mississippi River overlooking St. Anthony's Falls.
_
-
-
Here is a video of the finale ...except for the last 10 seconds.
-
(video missing)
Friday, July 4, 2008
O beautiful, for heroes proved In liberating strife
Please consider what our Independence means:
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.
Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
Any of that seem familiar, or rather, relevant? First, I agree with the sentiments of the last paragraph and do not support an overthrow of the government. I had thought of writing a spiteful diatribe about the current state of the U.S. Government and American politics, but I figured it best to pose a few questions instead (as some of you know, I can sometimes get emotional about politics). I believe it's better to have a dialogue than to throw around accusations.
My questions are posed around the current state of liberty in this country. How are the unalienable rights to which tyranny was abolished so cavalierly cast aside by so many? There are plenty of examples of institutional tyranny under the federal, state and municipal governments.
What has happened to the belief of rights of man? Why did common law and property rights become virtually non-existent? What about our right to self-defense? These are elemental to our rights, so why have the courts (namely SCOTUS) sided with the government's assertions of more control rather than individual liberty? I thought the courts were intended to be disassociated arbiters of the law, and not agents of the government instructing juries how to rule. What happened to the presumption of innocence? How has the burden of proof shifted from the accuser to the accused, and juries are convicting (very possibly innocent) people with only a preponderance of the evidence?
The Bill of Rights was to guarantee that which is ours, but the government (admittedly, by nature) has done everything it can to whittle it down to nothing. Most grievances are directly associated to the executive branch, so why did the balance of power shift to one person? The Constitution never intended for this scenario. Isn't that how tyrants are created - whether or not they are well-intentioned?
Is this a matter of ignorance or complacency? When does it become too much as a society, and when does it become too much for you? Do you believe this will be a free country for future generations? What's your price for only the appearance of security? Do you really have that much faith in a centralized government, or even in a single person? That was the point of our independence.
Consider these scenarios. The government can kick you out of your home and sell it to another private party, and you have no recourse (other than the compensation they deem reasonable). The government can break into your home and destroy it, kill your dog, maybe kill you, and they have no culpability in a mistaken identity. The government can tell you what you can or not do with your body. These are all happening right now.
What rights? It's unfortunate that George Carlin may have been correct that we only have privileges, not rights. So, is that why we cast off despotism (for our privileges)? That doesn't seem like a very noble reason, but human nature is also selfish.
I leave you with this question: is the U.S. Constitution in force any more, or are we only subject to the laws passed by the executive/legislative branches and asserted by the judicial branch?
Is that okay with you? Please discuss.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
I'm a cool rocking Daddy in the U.S.A.
Do you have what it takes to become a citizen?
How's your basic knowledge of U.S. citizenship? Take this short INS quiz.
Here are my results (I didn't know the name of the INS application -- I second-guessed and changed it from the correct answer):
The last comment that most Americans don't know this very little much is a very sad state of our nation. More to come ...with discussion.
How's your basic knowledge of U.S. citizenship? Take this short INS quiz.
Here are my results (I didn't know the name of the INS application -- I second-guessed and changed it from the correct answer):
You answered 95% of questions correctly. Here's your rating:
0-20%: Maybe you're still thinking too much about the Old Country.
25-40%: Mmmm. Do you really want to be a citizen? This kind of performance isn't going to impress those nice immigration folks.
45-60%: Not too bad, but you really need to break out the civics books again -- word is, the INS is looking for an 80 percent score.
65-80%: Hey, you may make a good citizen yet! Look at your wrong answers and a little revision should do the trick.
85-100%: Welcome to the United States! (And, truth be told, you know more about this great land than most Americans.)
The last comment that most Americans don't know this very little much is a very sad state of our nation. More to come ...with discussion.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
There ain't nothin' like 'em nowhere
This is outstanding. If you like baseball, then this is well worth watching (I couldn't figure out how to embed this in a post ...it's late Saturday night).
Also, apparently, this is not the first time something like this has happened. I've never seen anything remotely like it before.
Also, apparently, this is not the first time something like this has happened. I've never seen anything remotely like it before.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Grow me a beard just to see what the rednecks would do
I shaved last night, and the beard is gone (yea, Janell!). However, I did not get anywhere near as creative as this guy. Several people did not immediately recognize me at the office today, but someone did say, "nice face." I'm going to assume she wasn't being sarcastic.
Although, I think I now look like a 12-year old boy.
Although, I think I now look like a 12-year old boy.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Look what the river has done to this poor farmer's land
Yep. It's been a long time since I've posted. Lately, last thing I've been in the mood to do is write. In honor of the midwest floods cresting tomorrow, I'm posting a picture I took (a couple months ago) of the northern Mississippi River, near Brainerd, MN.
-
-
It doesn't look so mighty up this way.
-
I received a call last night from my friends, the Ziehrs, in Iowa City. The Iowa River came within 4-5 blocks of their house, but they have not had any damage (they were also out of state all last week). Unfortunately, one of my sisters didn't have as much luck with the creek in back of her home.
-
-
I went home this past weekend for my first weekend off in 5 weeks. I flew over Iowa and parts of the Mississippi River, and I saw a lot of the flooding from the air. As of now, I'm staying right here in Minnesota, and I'm just fine with that. There is plenty of work here for me. However, my department is going through more upheaval as of today (so who knows what will happen).
-
That's all for tonight. I'll try to update again, soon.
-
-
It doesn't look so mighty up this way.
-
I received a call last night from my friends, the Ziehrs, in Iowa City. The Iowa River came within 4-5 blocks of their house, but they have not had any damage (they were also out of state all last week). Unfortunately, one of my sisters didn't have as much luck with the creek in back of her home.
-
-
I went home this past weekend for my first weekend off in 5 weeks. I flew over Iowa and parts of the Mississippi River, and I saw a lot of the flooding from the air. As of now, I'm staying right here in Minnesota, and I'm just fine with that. There is plenty of work here for me. However, my department is going through more upheaval as of today (so who knows what will happen).
-
That's all for tonight. I'll try to update again, soon.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
With his feet on the ground and his head in the sky
-
This is one of many Paul Bunyan statues around Brainerd, MN.
-
I still think the statue of Robert Wadlow in Alton is cooler (but that may have more to do with my family's involvement).
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Burnin' with determination
It's been mentioned that I promised new posts a while back, yet have done anything. Please bear with me. I'm working long hours everyday, and the last thing I feel like doing is fighting with the internet here in my hotel.
-
So, to go back a few weeks, I was in search of some local fare of which I'd heard. It's called the Jucy Lucy. It's nothing like the Chef's Pride at Barrel Head in Springfield, IL. The waitresses and short order cook at Matt's wore T-shirts that said, "Don't Fear The Cheese." I should have.
-
-
The sandwich is two burger patties sealed around cheese. It's cooked very well done and the cheese is basically boiling on the inside. My waitress asked me if I knew what I was about to bite into, and I told her I had read about it. I waited a while for it to cool, but it wasn't long enough. As soon as I bit into it, molten hot cheese slid out onto my lower lip and right hand. It burned my hand and blistered my lower lip. I had to play it cool, since she had warned me. When no one was looking, I felt my lip and rubbed some mayonnaise on it to help it cool. The blisters broke and stung. Take my word that eating salty french fries with a broken blister on your lip is not advisable.
-
I suffered to finish this sandwich. I survived it, and I didn't even cry. However, it did give me a split lip for about 2 weeks. I don't have any immediate plans to try one again, but I feel that I want to conquer it. I keep telling myself that I am the master of all cheeseburgers.
-
So, to go back a few weeks, I was in search of some local fare of which I'd heard. It's called the Jucy Lucy. It's nothing like the Chef's Pride at Barrel Head in Springfield, IL. The waitresses and short order cook at Matt's wore T-shirts that said, "Don't Fear The Cheese." I should have.
-
-
The sandwich is two burger patties sealed around cheese. It's cooked very well done and the cheese is basically boiling on the inside. My waitress asked me if I knew what I was about to bite into, and I told her I had read about it. I waited a while for it to cool, but it wasn't long enough. As soon as I bit into it, molten hot cheese slid out onto my lower lip and right hand. It burned my hand and blistered my lower lip. I had to play it cool, since she had warned me. When no one was looking, I felt my lip and rubbed some mayonnaise on it to help it cool. The blisters broke and stung. Take my word that eating salty french fries with a broken blister on your lip is not advisable.
-
I suffered to finish this sandwich. I survived it, and I didn't even cry. However, it did give me a split lip for about 2 weeks. I don't have any immediate plans to try one again, but I feel that I want to conquer it. I keep telling myself that I am the master of all cheeseburgers.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Did you ever stop to notice
Happy Earth Day
Great River Energy just moved in to their new building this month, and it is a couple blocks from my hotel. I can actually see it out my window. This building is supposed to be [one of] the 'greenest buildings' in the country.
The windmill rotates to face whichever direction the wind is blowing. Sometimes, I'm entertained by the simplest things.
For anyone thinking I'm going soft, then enjoy the comments section from the State-Journal Register's article on Earth Day, today. Once again, the genius' in central Illinois shine bright.
Great River Energy just moved in to their new building this month, and it is a couple blocks from my hotel. I can actually see it out my window. This building is supposed to be [one of] the 'greenest buildings' in the country.
The windmill rotates to face whichever direction the wind is blowing. Sometimes, I'm entertained by the simplest things.
For anyone thinking I'm going soft, then enjoy the comments section from the State-Journal Register's article on Earth Day, today. Once again, the genius' in central Illinois shine bright.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
All we want is life beyond the thunderdome
I went to my first Twins game today. The [Hubert H. Humphrey] Metrodome was not as impressive as I imagined. Afterall, this is the facility which beat the Cardinals in the '87 series (not necessarily the Twins, themselves). It's kind of a strange place for a ballgame, and it was my first indoors baseball game. I'm not too familiar with the Twins or the Indians, and I'm not much of a fan of American League ball. I'm disappointed I couldn't have seen Torii Hunter play here (I guess on that note, Kirby Puckett would have been cool to see, too). However, the game went 10 innings, and it got exciting after the 8th. There was a spectacular diving catch by the Twins new center-fielder, and it will probably be a webgem on ESPN tonight. The Twins ended up winning 2-1. It was kind of weird to see the team take the field like they just won the pennant.
The Twins are building a new ballpark across town. It's going to be open-air, and not even with a retractable roof! That's genius with the weather up here. Not even close to a sell-out crowd, so I may go to more games before I get released from here.
I know not everybody has got a body like you
This story was on stltoday.com a few days ago, but internet connectivity in my hotel pretty much sucks. So, I may be posting infrequently unless I figure out something else.
But, this dog is an amazing story, and she came through the St. Louis Airport a few days ago. I highly recommend watching the video in the Post-Dispatch story or her own website.
But, this dog is an amazing story, and she came through the St. Louis Airport a few days ago. I highly recommend watching the video in the Post-Dispatch story or her own website.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
We've been through it all
Happy Anniversary to Mom & Dad.
27 years.
(no, I'm not a bastard; well... not exactly)
Also, Happy Anniversary for Kristi, Mike, Jennifer and me.
27 years.
(no, I'm not a bastard; well... not exactly)
Also, Happy Anniversary for Kristi, Mike, Jennifer and me.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
She saw me walking down the streets of your fine city
-
I'm now in Minneapolis (or rather Maple Grove, MN). It appears I may be working here for the next three months (but then, always subject to change). This is my first visit to the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Please feel free to offer any suggestions if you have any experience in the area.
-
Since Kristi has not had any updates recently, I'll let you know both kids are adjusting fine to the move. She's been busy, but Grandma Simpson is helping out.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Just when things went right
We're home, and Matt & Addi became U.S. citizens about 2:30 AM CDT this morning. I don't have any pics to post right now (we didn't take many, so I'll let their mommy post some first).
Kristi gave me the choice of which one I wanted to hold on the plane, and I either picked good or Uncle Steve is awesome. I took Addi for the flight and got her asleep right before we boarded the plane. She slept about 4 of the 4 1/2 hour flight. A few times she'd wake up, but she went back to sleep very quickly. She woke up as soon as we landed in Chicago, and I welcomed her to America. She slept through the entire descent. Kristi wasn't so lucky with Matt. He maybe slept 1/2 hour of the flight, and that was pretty restless.
I took a picture of Kristi with them in immigration, and we thought I was going to get arrested. A customs officer yelled, "PHOTO!" and came running at me to delete the pic from my camera. I thought it might be okay since I was standing by the baggage carousel away from the customs stations. I was wrong. So, no picture of them becoming citizens.
We left O'Hare after 3:00 AM, and I drove most of the way. Kristi's car is really small for me, and I had to have her finish the drive from Lincoln. I was sore and exhausted from the cramped driving conditions. They both slept most of the way, except Addi did wake up crying once.
I slept about two hours this morning, and I didn't even hear our parents come in. I'll stick around for a while, and then I'll go back home to St. Louis tonight. I had two voice-mails from yesterday telling me I've been deployed to work again. I called my boss this morning, and I'm apparently leaving on Sunday to work an old storm in Minneapolis.
Kristi gave me the choice of which one I wanted to hold on the plane, and I either picked good or Uncle Steve is awesome. I took Addi for the flight and got her asleep right before we boarded the plane. She slept about 4 of the 4 1/2 hour flight. A few times she'd wake up, but she went back to sleep very quickly. She woke up as soon as we landed in Chicago, and I welcomed her to America. She slept through the entire descent. Kristi wasn't so lucky with Matt. He maybe slept 1/2 hour of the flight, and that was pretty restless.
I took a picture of Kristi with them in immigration, and we thought I was going to get arrested. A customs officer yelled, "PHOTO!" and came running at me to delete the pic from my camera. I thought it might be okay since I was standing by the baggage carousel away from the customs stations. I was wrong. So, no picture of them becoming citizens.
We left O'Hare after 3:00 AM, and I drove most of the way. Kristi's car is really small for me, and I had to have her finish the drive from Lincoln. I was sore and exhausted from the cramped driving conditions. They both slept most of the way, except Addi did wake up crying once.
I slept about two hours this morning, and I didn't even hear our parents come in. I'll stick around for a while, and then I'll go back home to St. Louis tonight. I had two voice-mails from yesterday telling me I've been deployed to work again. I called my boss this morning, and I'm apparently leaving on Sunday to work an old storm in Minneapolis.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Got a ticket for my destination
**Updated**
I realized I hadn't posted any pics of Matt and Addi from this trip.
-
I also want to show off Addi's cute shoes. This is what she was wearing when her foster family dropped her off.
-
-
Can you see how long are Matt's eyelashes?
-
-
We're heading home this evening, and it will be a long night of waiting at the airport, first plane ride ever flying to Chicago, muddling through immigration and customs, experiencing the weather of the Windy City at 2:30 AM, and first ever rides in car seats home to Springfield. Tomorrow, I'll be wrangling Wrigley while they all try to get used to one another.
-
See you all tomorrow, stateside.
I realized I hadn't posted any pics of Matt and Addi from this trip.
-
I also want to show off Addi's cute shoes. This is what she was wearing when her foster family dropped her off.
-
-
Can you see how long are Matt's eyelashes?
-
-
We're heading home this evening, and it will be a long night of waiting at the airport, first plane ride ever flying to Chicago, muddling through immigration and customs, experiencing the weather of the Windy City at 2:30 AM, and first ever rides in car seats home to Springfield. Tomorrow, I'll be wrangling Wrigley while they all try to get used to one another.
-
See you all tomorrow, stateside.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
When marimba rhythms start to play
The marimba is the national instrument of Guatemala. This is a short video of the marimba group at the Hotel Posada in Antigua. Their instruments were made of ants wood. It was around the corner from our table in the restaurant, but the kids slept through the music. However, while we were waiting for our shuttle driver, I was 'swaying' with with Addi around the courtyard to one of their songs.
This is a marimba/xylophone made with jade keys at the Jade, S.A. factory.
Served out his time, became a circus clown
I thought this was funny. We passed this clown on a motorcycle in Guatemela City on the way to Antigua.
He actually arrived at Mayan Plaza the same time that we did.
He actually arrived at Mayan Plaza the same time that we did.
We didn't talk to him or see him again, but you don't see that everyday. He probably would've creeped the kids out. I've never been freaked out by clowns, but I will admit there is something odd about a lot of them (i.e.: John Wayne Gacy).
Monday, April 7, 2008
Comos los que usa el ranchero
Kristi and I took Matt and Addi to Antigua, which is about 45 minutes southwest of Guatemala City. Antigua is the ancient (and colonial) capital of Guatemala. Earthquakes and volcanoes necessitated the need to move the capital to Guatemala City. Antigua was originally called Santo Domingo, but the name changed to litteraly mean "antique" after the capital was moved. Please keep in mind most of the photos were taken while pushing Matt in his stroller across cobblestone streets and cobblestone sidewalks. They both were very good in their strollers the entire day, but these were not the best conditions to take good photos. Also, since I am limited in my time, this is a very long post.
-
Through the streets of Guatemala City (and past the first hotel we stayed in August)...
-
-
... and the countryside.
-
-
Arrival in Antigua.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Through the streets of Guatemala City (and past the first hotel we stayed in August)...
-
-
... and the countryside.
-
-
Arrival in Antigua.
-
-
-
First stop on the tour. One of the oldest and most important churches in Guatemala. The fusion of Christianity and Mayan tradition is reflected upon the reliefs and stuatuary on the building. The design of west to east facade has something to do with Mayan beliefs with the sun. The tall statue in the archway over the main entrance is the Virgin Mary, the most sacred saint in Central America. Abover her is an etched relief of God. There are other various saints depicted, but please don't expect me to remember them all from this tour.
-
-
-
The nave of the church.
-
-
-
All of the churches have some pretty detailed (and gorey) depictions of saints and Christ. This is actually a depiction of Jesus in his tomb. The lighting was difficult in the dark alcove and the bright sunlight from the entrance.
-
-
-
This is the main square known as Mayan Plaza, or Royal Plaza. It's not so much a tribute to the Mexican superculture, but mayan means royal. The water comes from the women's breasts because they feed the world ...or something like that. I couldn't understand everything the guide explained (maybe Kristi understood what he was talking about).
-
-
-
Next stop on the tour was the House of Jorge Posada. Actually, it's the Hotel Posada De Don Rodrigo (the Yankees catcher was my mnemonic aid for remembering the name of the hotel). Beautiful spot, and this is where we came back at the end of the tours to eat a late lunch. I had a Chile Rellenos that was outstanding, with Moza cervezas from Guatemala. The food was excellent, and the salsa was just the perfect hot for me. The rooftop patio view could see all over the rest of the city.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Walking down the street after leaving the Hotel Posada (you can see our guide's head in the lower left corner).
-
-
Apparently, this is the most famous view from Antigua, and it is used in all of their magazine and tourism promos. I've seen some of them and my pic doesn't come anywhere close to looking as nice.
-
-
This is the entrance to the old convent. Once you (that is the nuns) went in, you never came out. When the convent bought the land to the right of this arch, they built the archway as a bridge to the new property.
-
-
Nuestra Senora de la Merced. This is the main church of the convent. It is the most popular church in the country for Guatemalans to get married (Americans go to Casa Santo Domingo). The interesting tidbit I picked up about the elaborate relief on the facade is the use of images of corn. With the Mayan fusion into Christianity, corn replaced the origin of man from dust, because Mayans believed corn to be sacred (but I believe they enjoyed to eat it rather than Hindu belief with cows).
-
-
-
This is one of the entrances to where the bodies are buried beneath the church. I understand they aren't all that elaborate crypts, so you really are walking across their graves.
-
-
-
Some street views. A lot of Americans own these homes.
-
-
-
-
This is the workshop for the jade factory of Jade, S.A. (the official jade producer of Guatemala). They also have an informational seminar, a museum (with free coffee), and a very nice jewelry boutique. I never knew so much about jade before, but apparently the Chinese are cheaters. Guatemala is where to find the really good stuff.
-
-
-
Casa Santo Domingo. This place convinced me that I need to come back here to stay and see more of the area and the country... or do nothing. With only 25 guest rooms and a spectacular setting, it is actually quite affordable.
-
-
-
-
-
These are the ruins of the old church at Santo Domingo. The hills beyond were beautiful to see, and our guide told me they are surrounded by coffee plantations. You can rent a horse to ride through the plantations, and tour from the fields through the factory. I'm guessing it's a more thorough tour than a day at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery.
-
-
-
-
Everything salvageable from the old church is used in the hotel.
-
-
-
My favorite part about all of the buildings (villas) in Antigua are the various nooks and passageways. It's amazing how they can fit such variety of atmospheres into these spaces.
-
-
-
-
This is the best view of the Volcano of Water (Volcano de Agua) we had for the day. It rests to the south of the city, and the Volcano of Fire (Fuego) is to the west. Fuego is still an active volcano, and you can hike up to touch the lava with a stick. Agua is so named because of the rivers that come down and flood the plantations (it is now dormant). Guatemala has several volcanoes that are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, and Antigua sits in a bowl surrounded by volcanoes and mountains.
-
-
-
A traditional indian market. We skipped it and went back to Hotel Posada for lunch before we left.
-
-
The weather, in short, was incredible. We got hot walking around (and pushing the strollers), but whenever we stopped to rest the cool Pacific breeze would be refreshing. The weather/temperature stays like that pretty much the year round. I didn't see one air conditioning unit, and I believe I wouldn't even miss it if I stayed.
-
Yes, I want to go back. There were so many other places around town that I would like to see, and most of the country is easily accessible from Antigua. I needed to get out of Guatemala City to realize I actually like this country.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)