Hello from NH! Got in last evening to be greeted by a very excited dog! All freshly groomed! We bought him a new squeeky toy on the way home as it turned out he ate his last one.
Before leaving NYC, I visited the United Nations and took the tour. An interesting fact here. NYC spends more than $2 Billion on security for NYC. That, minus the PeaceKeeping forces, is MORE than the ENTIRE budget of the UN. Also, did you know that the International Court at the Hague is part of the UN? Did you know that the International Court is a holdover from the League of Nations?
I also visited Ground Zero in NYC before leaving the city. Not a lot to see per se except the huge amount of building and continuing demolition going on. Still, I found it very powerful to stand there and attempt to envision the moment on September 11, 2001. Toured a nearby [very very nearby] St. Paul's Chapel where there was an exhibit set up on that time. Simple but powerful. Made me wonder about the low budget of the UN all over again.
Easy ride home. Disoriented when we walked in and just walked around for about an hour....so funny. Even the dog wondered about us! My deep love and thanks to my wife for her willingness to spend 2 months in a small metal container and enjoy and share the country with me. Onto our next adventure!
I will post the link to the photos when we get them done so check the blog in about a week.
Good to be home!
Love, Matt
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
The Big Apple and the end of the road trip
We arrived in the Big Apple and abruptly came to a standstill as drivers jostled to weave their way into three lanes from six lanes. I noted that cars were crammed into the lanes reserved for emergency vehicles only. Our GPS system skillfully guided us through the maze of streets, except that he didn't quite realize that we wanted West Broadway instead of East Broadway. So you can imagine our surprise when we expected to find the Marriott in Times Square and we pulled up to a rundown building. OOPS! Now you're thinking, what's the bid deal, right? Well, we'd just driven 9 miles in bumper to bumper traffic narrowly missing taxis, bicyclists, trucks, pedestrians, horse drawn carriages who found sport in cutting cars off without warning. We'd just driven four hours from Washington, DC. So the thought of driving 9 miles in the opposite direction was a bit much to take. Matt was patient and did a superb job maneuvering the car through the maze of traffic. Surprisingly, I kept my screams to a minimum. My nerves were so shot by then that my synapses for fight or flight had stopped firing! We had to circumnavigate the block once we'd reached the hotel in order to reach valet parking. We pulled in and the valet checked our trunk full of bags, etc. After all, this is New York. Even the taxi cabs' trunks are checked as they pull up to the hotel. Suffice to say, we parked the car and vowed never to use it while in the city, except for the drive our on our trip home.
Ah, the broadway stage hands were still on strike. Matt secured tickets to Forbidden Broadway: A Rude Awakening. While standing in line we stuck up a conversation with a woman and her daughter. It turned out that the young girl was starring in Mary Poppins in the role of Jane. She was at this perfomance because she had to write a review on a broadway show for a school assignment. She goes to school every day, then appears in the show eight times a month, then is on standby for eight perfomances a month. There are actually three Janes who rotate through the show. One night while on call, she was doing her homework, when she learned that the Jane for the night became sick, so she had to jump in at intermission in her place. She was one poised, young lady. Her mom shared the life details of having your child in a broadway show. And you thought being a soccer mom was difficult!
Well, we are headed home today. Oddly enough, the time passed quickly, although re-entry should prove interesting, in addition to being a comsummate challenge. What, we don't have a housekeeper to change our bed? And I have to go back to setting an alarm clock? A loving thanks to Matthew for an incredible adventure on the road. His patience was appreciated as I'm not a morning person and he allowed me to sleep in . In turn, I tried to keep up with his energy level, OK, so I can't even come close, but I tried anyway. Perhaps the best test for any marriage is an extended road trip. I used to think it was home renovations!
Would I do a road trip again? Yup, in a heartbeat! See you soon. Love, Kare
Ah, the broadway stage hands were still on strike. Matt secured tickets to Forbidden Broadway: A Rude Awakening. While standing in line we stuck up a conversation with a woman and her daughter. It turned out that the young girl was starring in Mary Poppins in the role of Jane. She was at this perfomance because she had to write a review on a broadway show for a school assignment. She goes to school every day, then appears in the show eight times a month, then is on standby for eight perfomances a month. There are actually three Janes who rotate through the show. One night while on call, she was doing her homework, when she learned that the Jane for the night became sick, so she had to jump in at intermission in her place. She was one poised, young lady. Her mom shared the life details of having your child in a broadway show. And you thought being a soccer mom was difficult!
Well, we are headed home today. Oddly enough, the time passed quickly, although re-entry should prove interesting, in addition to being a comsummate challenge. What, we don't have a housekeeper to change our bed? And I have to go back to setting an alarm clock? A loving thanks to Matthew for an incredible adventure on the road. His patience was appreciated as I'm not a morning person and he allowed me to sleep in . In turn, I tried to keep up with his energy level, OK, so I can't even come close, but I tried anyway. Perhaps the best test for any marriage is an extended road trip. I used to think it was home renovations!
Would I do a road trip again? Yup, in a heartbeat! See you soon. Love, Kare
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Washington, DC
The last time I was in Washington, I was chaperoning 15 teenagers and we stayed in a youth hostel after driving 11 hours in a van. The city is crawling with families seeing the sights over the Thanksgiving recess. Suffice to say, that this trip is just a bit different! So today I spent the day in the company of another adult (that would be Matt)at the Corcoran Museum of Art. Two photography exhibits were featured: one by Annie Leibowitz and one by Ansel Adams. Ansel Adams is my favorite photographer--- this exhibit traced his roots as a 14 year old intern at Yosemite and his first landscape photographs to his last photographs. I was in visual heaven, immersed in his photographic world. Not only was he a talented photographer and an avid hiker, he was an environmentalist and worked tirelessly to save our national parks. He actually trained as a pianist, but once someone talented saw his photographs and talked him into pursuing photography. I'm hoping to take a photography course this winter, he was that inspiring! We walked and walked and walked all over the city taking in the monuments and an exhibit at the Air and Space Museum. Hey, Sarah and Ben---- remember when we took the train to Washington years ago? So many great memories from that trip! I'm so ready to be home, Kare
Matt here.
We head further north into the frozen tundra this morning arriving in NYC in about 4 hours. Our last night [Monday] will be spent on/in Times Square. We are both looking forward to being home but having said that, it has been an amazing trip. We have both learned an incredible amount about our country, our heritage and ourselves in the bargain. To finish the trip [well almost] in Washington DC is hugely appropriate and seems at least for me, to sort of wrap things up by touring so much of our history in this one area.
We both want to thank Devin Reed who most graciously and ably cared for our dog and our home while we were away. Thanks to her boyfriend and others who assisted her when the inevitable little oddities of our home reared their charming heads.
We also want to thank our friends on the road: David and Jane for the camp and the graceful beginning to our trip, Bryan and Linda {twice!} for Bamff, Lake Louise and for the Jamaican hot tub, Ric and Kathy for our extended stay, our dog and kid 'fix', Salli and Doug [x2 as we both traveled and had thanksgiving with them], Kris Bastian and her warm little cabin in the woods, George, Elwood and Terry for the great meal and rememberances, Garth my nephew for his company and for my dog 'fix', Travis and Stephanie in Phoenix for openning your heart to us and Sarah and Ryan in their new abode. You all provided warmth, humor, food, wine and great good friendship. MANY thanks from both of us! Know that you have a place to alight in NH at any time of your choosing.
And finally to our family and friends in New England to whom we return. We thank you for your patience as we show and explain in excruciating detail every one of our 3,300 pictures. [just kidding] Thank you for writing and keeping us connected to home.
Love, Matt
Matt here.
We head further north into the frozen tundra this morning arriving in NYC in about 4 hours. Our last night [Monday] will be spent on/in Times Square. We are both looking forward to being home but having said that, it has been an amazing trip. We have both learned an incredible amount about our country, our heritage and ourselves in the bargain. To finish the trip [well almost] in Washington DC is hugely appropriate and seems at least for me, to sort of wrap things up by touring so much of our history in this one area.
We both want to thank Devin Reed who most graciously and ably cared for our dog and our home while we were away. Thanks to her boyfriend and others who assisted her when the inevitable little oddities of our home reared their charming heads.
We also want to thank our friends on the road: David and Jane for the camp and the graceful beginning to our trip, Bryan and Linda {twice!} for Bamff, Lake Louise and for the Jamaican hot tub, Ric and Kathy for our extended stay, our dog and kid 'fix', Salli and Doug [x2 as we both traveled and had thanksgiving with them], Kris Bastian and her warm little cabin in the woods, George, Elwood and Terry for the great meal and rememberances, Garth my nephew for his company and for my dog 'fix', Travis and Stephanie in Phoenix for openning your heart to us and Sarah and Ryan in their new abode. You all provided warmth, humor, food, wine and great good friendship. MANY thanks from both of us! Know that you have a place to alight in NH at any time of your choosing.
And finally to our family and friends in New England to whom we return. We thank you for your patience as we show and explain in excruciating detail every one of our 3,300 pictures. [just kidding] Thank you for writing and keeping us connected to home.
Love, Matt
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Onward and upward
As we work our way north, we spent a few days in Atlanta. As was noted in our previous blog, we spent the day at the Martin Luther Center and the following day at the Carter Center. Both were well worth it and had a huge benefit of giving us hope about America. It was rewarding to stand in a place dedicated to a US President I could actually be proud of. Also, relative to Martin Luther King I noted that one of his major influences was Ghandi. The picture is a quote from him.
Drove all afternoon up to Pigeon Forge just outside the Smoky Mountain National Park. Scenery was all about fall foliage and the dramatic mountain background. Very different type of mountains - much older than the Rockies and therefore more rounded and frankly more pleasing to my New England eyes.
Drove most of the day today to Charlottesville Virginia through soft, pristine rolling fields with immaculate farms in the warm sunshine to stay a few days and Thanksgiving holiday with Salli and Doug and their family. It is nice to be at a home and all that being in a home might mean. They even have a sweet 13 sweet dog who although he is blind, finds his way around easily and with grace.
Greetings to everyone and happy Thanksgiving!
Matt
Drove all afternoon up to Pigeon Forge just outside the Smoky Mountain National Park. Scenery was all about fall foliage and the dramatic mountain background. Very different type of mountains - much older than the Rockies and therefore more rounded and frankly more pleasing to my New England eyes.
Drove most of the day today to Charlottesville Virginia through soft, pristine rolling fields with immaculate farms in the warm sunshine to stay a few days and Thanksgiving holiday with Salli and Doug and their family. It is nice to be at a home and all that being in a home might mean. They even have a sweet 13 sweet dog who although he is blind, finds his way around easily and with grace.
Greetings to everyone and happy Thanksgiving!
Matt
Hello from Kare: The highlight of the Carter Presidential Museum for me was the Post Presidency section that displayed the work currently being done by the Carter Center. This organization works to eradicate specific diseases in third world countries through education and by introducing simple techniques that have successfully decreased the incidence of disabling diseases. I have so much respect for Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn and the work that they've done to help the disadvantaged. They've been involved with Habitat for Humanity and
other organizations. Incidently, both Carter and Martin Luther King, Jr. won the Nobel Peace Prize. They both believed in the power of diplomacy and negotiation and using non-violent methods. Hmmm, what a concept!
The latter part of our trip has been more museum focused. Mostly because we've been based in city settings rather than National Park natural settings.
Hello to the ladies of the Birth Center. I'll be returning soon. I hope the unit has been completely renovated during my abscence. Happy Thanksgiving to all !
Monday, November 19, 2007
On our way, reflections of the road behind and ahead
Well, our trip East has covered considerable ground. We spent a night in Houston to meet up with several former colleagues [and I hope now friends] to get caught up with what is going on in everyones lives. We spent a bit of the day touring the Houston Space / Johnson Space Center. Although we both learned a bit, I personally found it kind of lame. Granted, I am keenly interested in the space program and therefore had greater hopes than perhaps most but we saw little of the current program.
Had dinner out with the aforementioned friends and had a great time. Thanks George and Barbara, Elwood and Lisa, and Terry!
Headed East to the Louisiana Bayou. A very pleasant drive along the coast seeing wildlife, the scenery and of course left over damage by Hurricane Katrina. Took a route up along the coast to Baton Rouge for the night. Today, made our way to Atlanta from Birmingham.
Reflections on the trip include first and foremost how incredibly lucky we have been to have this experience. An open schedule, enough funds and the energy and health to make it happen.
We met countless people, mostly informally, who have have been interesting to talk to, warm to the 'touch', and gracious in their service to us. Of these, the many waitstaff stand out. All have been more than willing and even eager to engage and to offer their perspectives of their home and environment. We were often steered in the right direction based solely on their guidance.
Other reflections include: We are further impressed that the Peace Corps, if it continues to look positive, is absolutely the right thing to do. Challenging and intimidating to be sure but still, the right thing to do if we can.
Finally, the goals of the trip, are only somewhat accomplished. As far as leaving Tyco behind, well, mostly that has happened. I will always miss being at the center of the action in terms of making positive things happen but I don't miss some of the elements of the corporate life and the way it is played.
We have seen a lot of the country but it has only whetted our appetite for more. We do have a better sense of where we want to go back to.
We have seen a lot of our friends but alas, not enough. That hole will never be completely filled and we both were sad as we drove away to continue our journey.
Finally, spending time with my wife has been a great experience. Not without some level of friction ,mind you, as we both tend to critique each others driving and the car does get small after two months. However, we had countless discussions about books, lives [others and our own], current events as well as the logistics of the trip itself. I would not trade this for a moment and wish all the same opportunity.
All from me for now, Matt
Kare here now: Just finished reading the book: Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. Thank you Salli for placing this book in my hands at a time when I dearly needed to reflect on the spiritual
side of my life. The same day that I started to read it, the author was featured on an NPR program. The program explored Americans heightened interest in eastern philosophy and meditation. Today we visited the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Change in Atlanta. It's actually partnered with the National Park system. The exhibit captured key moments in MLK's life and featured audio clips of his speeches. I remember being in French class in high school when the news of his assassination broke. I came away with a real sense of who he was and what he accomplished. Of course I had to buy a book of his most famous speeches! The Freedom Hall had an exhibit of personal items, awards and medals awarded to MLK, his wife Coretta and Mahatma Gandhi. I paused at the marble casket in the midst of the reflecting pool along the Freedom Walk that holds MLK and his wife. I've been keeping an extensive daily journal and look forward to reflecting on various aspects of the trip when I return home. Lots of funny stories and memories to digest. A bit sleep deprived at the moment as have had a couple of rough nights sleep-wise. But, underground Atlanta is on the agenda for this evening!
Had dinner out with the aforementioned friends and had a great time. Thanks George and Barbara, Elwood and Lisa, and Terry!
Headed East to the Louisiana Bayou. A very pleasant drive along the coast seeing wildlife, the scenery and of course left over damage by Hurricane Katrina. Took a route up along the coast to Baton Rouge for the night. Today, made our way to Atlanta from Birmingham.
Reflections on the trip include first and foremost how incredibly lucky we have been to have this experience. An open schedule, enough funds and the energy and health to make it happen.
We met countless people, mostly informally, who have have been interesting to talk to, warm to the 'touch', and gracious in their service to us. Of these, the many waitstaff stand out. All have been more than willing and even eager to engage and to offer their perspectives of their home and environment. We were often steered in the right direction based solely on their guidance.
Other reflections include: We are further impressed that the Peace Corps, if it continues to look positive, is absolutely the right thing to do. Challenging and intimidating to be sure but still, the right thing to do if we can.
Finally, the goals of the trip, are only somewhat accomplished. As far as leaving Tyco behind, well, mostly that has happened. I will always miss being at the center of the action in terms of making positive things happen but I don't miss some of the elements of the corporate life and the way it is played.
We have seen a lot of the country but it has only whetted our appetite for more. We do have a better sense of where we want to go back to.
We have seen a lot of our friends but alas, not enough. That hole will never be completely filled and we both were sad as we drove away to continue our journey.
Finally, spending time with my wife has been a great experience. Not without some level of friction ,mind you, as we both tend to critique each others driving and the car does get small after two months. However, we had countless discussions about books, lives [others and our own], current events as well as the logistics of the trip itself. I would not trade this for a moment and wish all the same opportunity.
All from me for now, Matt
Kare here now: Just finished reading the book: Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. Thank you Salli for placing this book in my hands at a time when I dearly needed to reflect on the spiritual
side of my life. The same day that I started to read it, the author was featured on an NPR program. The program explored Americans heightened interest in eastern philosophy and meditation. Today we visited the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Change in Atlanta. It's actually partnered with the National Park system. The exhibit captured key moments in MLK's life and featured audio clips of his speeches. I remember being in French class in high school when the news of his assassination broke. I came away with a real sense of who he was and what he accomplished. Of course I had to buy a book of his most famous speeches! The Freedom Hall had an exhibit of personal items, awards and medals awarded to MLK, his wife Coretta and Mahatma Gandhi. I paused at the marble casket in the midst of the reflecting pool along the Freedom Walk that holds MLK and his wife. I've been keeping an extensive daily journal and look forward to reflecting on various aspects of the trip when I return home. Lots of funny stories and memories to digest. A bit sleep deprived at the moment as have had a couple of rough nights sleep-wise. But, underground Atlanta is on the agenda for this evening!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
El Paso onto San Antonio
Greetings all! Our trek East continue with a bit of a layover in San Antonio. I had been here some years ago and remembered my first Corona with Lime on the Riverfront. I had to show this very delightful town to Karen.
San Antonio, home of the famous Alamo story, is situated appropriately enough on the San Antonio River which winds its wayright through the heart of the city. The drive from El Paso was meant to be broken up midway but when we saw the halfway point we agreed to keep on trucking. It made for a longish day driving but like the northern equivalent of South Dakota, the only thing to do is to keep on trucking through it....and we did.
We arrived late but had reservations and EASY access to the downtown riverwalk. Warm, balmy, scented by flowers and vines, soft lighting in the trees all along the riverfront....well, it was well worth the effort to get here. We found a great restaurant overlooking the river with a deck outside that would have allowed me to gently toss a pebble into the water should I have been crass enough to do so.
Toured the Alamo the next day, along with Ripleys believe it or not, did some browsing and walking along the riverwalk, had another meal on the walkway and later that night went to a comedy club. Very small crowd but a few of the comedians were worth seeing. Intended to move on to Houston today but I wanted to try a tour offered on the Segways. Those segways are way way cool. My guide and I covered about 8 miles in 2.5 hours. Easy to learn to operate and very forgiving. I got a chance to see parts of San Antonio I never would have seen without a guide and the segway. We decided to stay in SA for one more night and head to Houston for the Space Center in the morning. Dinner tomorrow night with some former colleagues and now friends in Houston. Then we have to start making some serious time to make it to Virginia for Thanksgiving at Salli's and Doug's.
Anyone have interest in meeting us in NYC for a few days (Nov. 26, 27 and leave on the 28th back to NH) to see a few shows and eat great food? Let us know! matttowne@metrocast.net
Love, Matt
San Antonio, home of the famous Alamo story, is situated appropriately enough on the San Antonio River which winds its wayright through the heart of the city. The drive from El Paso was meant to be broken up midway but when we saw the halfway point we agreed to keep on trucking. It made for a longish day driving but like the northern equivalent of South Dakota, the only thing to do is to keep on trucking through it....and we did.
We arrived late but had reservations and EASY access to the downtown riverwalk. Warm, balmy, scented by flowers and vines, soft lighting in the trees all along the riverfront....well, it was well worth the effort to get here. We found a great restaurant overlooking the river with a deck outside that would have allowed me to gently toss a pebble into the water should I have been crass enough to do so.
Toured the Alamo the next day, along with Ripleys believe it or not, did some browsing and walking along the riverwalk, had another meal on the walkway and later that night went to a comedy club. Very small crowd but a few of the comedians were worth seeing. Intended to move on to Houston today but I wanted to try a tour offered on the Segways. Those segways are way way cool. My guide and I covered about 8 miles in 2.5 hours. Easy to learn to operate and very forgiving. I got a chance to see parts of San Antonio I never would have seen without a guide and the segway. We decided to stay in SA for one more night and head to Houston for the Space Center in the morning. Dinner tomorrow night with some former colleagues and now friends in Houston. Then we have to start making some serious time to make it to Virginia for Thanksgiving at Salli's and Doug's.
Anyone have interest in meeting us in NYC for a few days (Nov. 26, 27 and leave on the 28th back to NH) to see a few shows and eat great food? Let us know! matttowne@metrocast.net
Love, Matt
Monday, November 12, 2007
South of the border
Having arrived in El Paso, Texas we just couldn't resist walking across the border to Juarez, Mexico. It was a bit odd to walk across the pedestrian bridge along with many Mexicans. We paid our 35 cents to cross into Mexico and for that miniscule amount we gave the street vendors permission to beckon to us at every store. I haven't said no that much since I've had a 2 year old at home! (always with a polite smile, I might add) We sauntered around trying to read Spanish and I even spoke a few words here and there: like margherita, gracias, de nada. We did order a margherita and I eyed my ice cubes suspiciously wondering what organism they harbored. We stopped for lunch and I noted that we were being sized up by a trio of musicians seated on a bench in the restaurant. They were dressed in white embroidered shirt, boots, cowboy hats and carried well-worn instruments. They were more than happy to serenade us with the song called Margherita for the mere price of a tip. On our return trip to the US we walked through the Homeland Security building and while waiting in line I mentioned to Matt: "at least I don't have any fruit in my bag for once." Wrong again! When Matt placed our hiking pack on the screener he was pulled aside by security. OK, so I'd forgotten about the two apples I'd stashed away for hiking. Why they could have saved our lives on the trails. Fortunately, the security guy smiled as he tossed the apples in the trash can. Remember the knives in my backpack in Boston, Bonnie? We didn't escape Mexico without purchasing a large, colorful platter. It'd been awhile since I'd heard the expression:"Almost free!" All kidding aside, it was sobering seeing the drastic difference in worlds separated only by a bridge. I'm ever aware of how fortunate I've been in life and am ever grateful for the special people in my life: family, friends and Sarah and Ben and our newest member, Ryan. Adios, Kare
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Sedona, Phoenix and thoughts at the turn
Sedona, with all of its gorgeous red rocks and cliffs was worth seeing at least once. Somewhat underwhelmed by the number of people on the hussle to sell us something. On the other hand, we got a great suite overlooking the red cliffs for very very little cash. Just won't do it again that's all. We did take a great hike that required a 5 mile off roading adventure to find the trail but the hike was easy and amounted to 4 miles up an easy trail to a great overlook for the valley and a nicely formed arch.
Moved on to Phoenix for the sole purpose of meeting up with my nephew [son from my estranged brother Ken] and his family. I hadn't seen Travis in several decades and had never met his wife. The evening meal was everything one could hope and we immensely enjoyed reconnecting. Travis is a school principal at a Christian school in Phoenix and his wife, trained as a clarinetist, is now active in the school as well. They are hosting a strong young woman from Korea for several years now and we had the delight of meeting her as well.
We moved on to El Paso as per the 'plan' and plan to spend a day or so here in Mexico and El Paso just to get reaquainted with Mexican culture. LONG day driving though on a highway with little to recommend it except for speed. Along the way however we did visit the Saguaro National Park and got reminded that these plants fight back. Beautiful in all its bleakness if that makes any sense.
Phoenix was our turning point back East. As of this morning we are now getting closer to New England and not further away. Our odyssey continues but it now has a flavor of 'going home' now that it did not have before. So far, nearly 8,000 miles travelled and most of Texas is out in front of us yet.
Btw, if you post to this blog, it automatically sends your email to us on my blackberry...I don't have your email addresses and the blog strips the email address from the message before it sends it to us. But we get your emails!
All for now. Love, Matt
Moved on to Phoenix for the sole purpose of meeting up with my nephew [son from my estranged brother Ken] and his family. I hadn't seen Travis in several decades and had never met his wife. The evening meal was everything one could hope and we immensely enjoyed reconnecting. Travis is a school principal at a Christian school in Phoenix and his wife, trained as a clarinetist, is now active in the school as well. They are hosting a strong young woman from Korea for several years now and we had the delight of meeting her as well.
We moved on to El Paso as per the 'plan' and plan to spend a day or so here in Mexico and El Paso just to get reaquainted with Mexican culture. LONG day driving though on a highway with little to recommend it except for speed. Along the way however we did visit the Saguaro National Park and got reminded that these plants fight back. Beautiful in all its bleakness if that makes any sense.
Phoenix was our turning point back East. As of this morning we are now getting closer to New England and not further away. Our odyssey continues but it now has a flavor of 'going home' now that it did not have before. So far, nearly 8,000 miles travelled and most of Texas is out in front of us yet.
Btw, if you post to this blog, it automatically sends your email to us on my blackberry...I don't have your email addresses and the blog strips the email address from the message before it sends it to us. But we get your emails!
All for now. Love, Matt
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Huge amounts to share!
Greetings all! It has again been a while since we have shared our travels with you. Internet access and campfires have kept us from posting. At any rate, the journey continues!
We met up with Salli and Doug late last Thursday and the next day headed to Bryce Canyon. Salli's comment sort of says it - this may be why the aliens [remember site 51 and Roswell?] chose to land out here. A very bizarre and DRAMATIC landscape. As has been the case we hiked deep into the canyon through many arches and up and down steep, open cliff facing. As a ranger would tell us later at the Grand Canyon, he didn't worry about us as we didn't fit the idiot profile of being between 16 and 35 with a six pack. Having said that, the path we walked was absolutely FULL of opportunity to have a mishap.
We spent the night at Bryce [my birthday actually], saw some more the next day and headed to a new dinosaur museum in St. George - Doug is into dinosaurs. In 2000 a man was digging a hole on his farm when he dug up a piece of sedimentary rock that had a large dinosaur footprint on it. Hence, the new museum on the site which is still actively being explored.
We met up with Salli and Doug late last Thursday and the next day headed to Bryce Canyon. Salli's comment sort of says it - this may be why the aliens [remember site 51 and Roswell?] chose to land out here. A very bizarre and DRAMATIC landscape. As has been the case we hiked deep into the canyon through many arches and up and down steep, open cliff facing. As a ranger would tell us later at the Grand Canyon, he didn't worry about us as we didn't fit the idiot profile of being between 16 and 35 with a six pack. Having said that, the path we walked was absolutely FULL of opportunity to have a mishap.
We spent the night at Bryce [my birthday actually], saw some more the next day and headed to a new dinosaur museum in St. George - Doug is into dinosaurs. In 2000 a man was digging a hole on his farm when he dug up a piece of sedimentary rock that had a large dinosaur footprint on it. Hence, the new museum on the site which is still actively being explored.
The weather in the mountains [elevation here is about 9000 feet] is getting cooler as we are chased by winter south. It was 17 degrees when we woke up in Bryce. I personally think Zion will emerge as my personal favorite. We did three hikes but our favorite was an 8 miler, involving paths that were absolutely beyond belief for views and hazard as the upper part of the path was about 2 1/2 feet wide and sloped toward the canyon and had no rail or other implement to stop your free fall down more than 3,500 feet. Look at it this way, you would have enough time to contemplate exactly what misstep that put you on that trajectory. The path gained 2,000 feet of elevation in 4 miles. It was a GREAT hike with my canyon buddy, Kare.
They had a great lodge and we stayed in a cabin. We were impressed with the food and service while there. We learned that the Xanterra employees agree to work in a variety of jobs and only pay $11 a day for lodging and 3 meals a day. Lots of laughs with Salli and Doug as they are easy travel companions.
They had a great lodge and we stayed in a cabin. We were impressed with the food and service while there. We learned that the Xanterra employees agree to work in a variety of jobs and only pay $11 a day for lodging and 3 meals a day. Lots of laughs with Salli and Doug as they are easy travel companions.
And now for the Grand Canyon adventures from Kare............ Matt
OK, we'd seen all sorts of reddish,orange cliffs and canyons, so I wasn't prepared to be wowed by the immensity of the Grand Canyon. I think I was suffering from scenic vista overload. We took a flight on a Cessna 207 over the North and South rim. We actually flew over the prescribed burns that were happening in the North rim. Just amazing looking down on the scene below. While watching a sunset at Hopi Point Matt was almost bowled over by an enthusiastic hug from a tiny woman. Lo and behold, it was Linda, of the famed Brian and Linda, our friends from Calgary. Talk about serendipity. So we joined them for dinner and caught up on travel adventures! What are the odds of that happenng? We finally camped out under the brilliant stars in the Mather campground. Of course we had a campfire complete with S'Mores. Salli and I found an actual kit that included 4 long sticks for toasting the marshmallows. Happy to report that our new sleeping bags were toasty and comfortable. Nice change from the hotel scene. And after all, the Red Sox series has ended so we didn't need a TV! Met a couple from New Durham, NH on the shuttle bus. Hiked a piece of the Bright Angel trail, but my favorite hike was the hike in Bryce. Said good bye to the Grand Canyon and drove on to Sedona. All for now, Kare
Friday, November 2, 2007
A very good day - a lesson in following my nose to adventure.
Well, today, as the title would suggest was a good day. It had inauspicious beginnings at 2:30 AM when the hotel smoke alarm woke the entire hotel. I wandered out, sleepy and a bit dazed to find that the hotel staff was directing everyone back to bed. Good idea.
Roused myself to offer my services to the balloning pilots in a field nearby. Walked up and said that I was willing to help and literally seconds late Maggie grabbed me by the arm and said we could use you....and off we went. Moments later I was helping to assemble a 70 foot balloon in the shape of an indian clown. The pilot and his wife gave great directions and the other crew and I [all novices] spend about 30 minutes arranging and assembling the various components to the balloon. As we did our various assigned chores, we worked pretty well as a team. At one point I was holding the line attached to what would become the top and Tom, our pilot, said, "just keep it firm and when I add hot air I'll let you know." I am very very glad he did and had shown me how to hold the line in the event of having to let go....NO way was even my substantial weight going to keep that puppy from going airborne.
As we added our weight to the basket, he turned and said "ok, Matt and Karen [a different member of the crew], get in." This was totally unexpected and a great bonus. My expectations were to be part of the launch! We flew for about 45 minutes at 1000 feet over the Lake Powell Dam and the canyons. Absolutely spectacular!!!! We decended in a field and the chase crew caught up with us to allow the others of our crew to get their flight in.
Ultimately, the balloon landed in a badlands area that required a bit of pushing and shoving to get the balloon up the small cliff to where we could disassemble it.
As we went through the 'first flight' ceremony later with all the attendant hoopla and gravitas, we were invited to spend the afternoon on Lake Powell with 5 houseboats with all the crews and balloonists out floating on the water.
Once the balloon was safely stowed, I picked up Karen and off we went to an afternoon of meeting new people, seeing the cliffs from a new angle and drinking beer. A great group of people to meet and laugh with. Even a few of the folks went skinny dipping. NOT a shabby way to spend a day no?
Doug and Salli, two friends from Virginia are driving out to meet us tonight. Be great to see them again.
All for now - the festival continues tomorrow and Karen is also going to try to crew.
Remember, we love to get your comments! Kris, we've added more pictures but will, when all this is over, post a link to Picassa where you can view at your leisure....or not.
And tomorrow is yet ANOTHER sunny day...
Matt
Roused myself to offer my services to the balloning pilots in a field nearby. Walked up and said that I was willing to help and literally seconds late Maggie grabbed me by the arm and said we could use you....and off we went. Moments later I was helping to assemble a 70 foot balloon in the shape of an indian clown. The pilot and his wife gave great directions and the other crew and I [all novices] spend about 30 minutes arranging and assembling the various components to the balloon. As we did our various assigned chores, we worked pretty well as a team. At one point I was holding the line attached to what would become the top and Tom, our pilot, said, "just keep it firm and when I add hot air I'll let you know." I am very very glad he did and had shown me how to hold the line in the event of having to let go....NO way was even my substantial weight going to keep that puppy from going airborne.
As we added our weight to the basket, he turned and said "ok, Matt and Karen [a different member of the crew], get in." This was totally unexpected and a great bonus. My expectations were to be part of the launch! We flew for about 45 minutes at 1000 feet over the Lake Powell Dam and the canyons. Absolutely spectacular!!!! We decended in a field and the chase crew caught up with us to allow the others of our crew to get their flight in.
Ultimately, the balloon landed in a badlands area that required a bit of pushing and shoving to get the balloon up the small cliff to where we could disassemble it.
As we went through the 'first flight' ceremony later with all the attendant hoopla and gravitas, we were invited to spend the afternoon on Lake Powell with 5 houseboats with all the crews and balloonists out floating on the water.
Once the balloon was safely stowed, I picked up Karen and off we went to an afternoon of meeting new people, seeing the cliffs from a new angle and drinking beer. A great group of people to meet and laugh with. Even a few of the folks went skinny dipping. NOT a shabby way to spend a day no?
Doug and Salli, two friends from Virginia are driving out to meet us tonight. Be great to see them again.
All for now - the festival continues tomorrow and Karen is also going to try to crew.
Remember, we love to get your comments! Kris, we've added more pictures but will, when all this is over, post a link to Picassa where you can view at your leisure....or not.
And tomorrow is yet ANOTHER sunny day...
Matt
Thursday, November 1, 2007
One month today
Matt and I have found a natural rhythm to life on the road. It seems like we just left. Life on the road is not without its own stressors. Not knowing the territory, road systems, local culture with its unspoken rules and customs, and finding a place to call home for a day or two can be unsettling. Yet there are times when I feel a sense of pure joy while viewing the incredible scenic vistas, the natural wonders of the western landscape. Then there are times while driving long stretches of repetitive scenery that the Village Folk channel on XM radio adds a fun , nostalgic element to the experience. Yesterday we toured the Antelope Slot Canyon with a Navajo man as our guide. He was a bit irritable at first, but once I showed an interest in his talk and asked questions, he took me aside and showed me where to get the best shots and pointed out the various shapes. I'm sure it get tedious giving the same talk day after day. He was quite personable the rest of the tour. He kept saying stand over here, girl. I finally said to him: " How old are you anyway? He said he was 56. I kiddingly said: " I'm the same age." And I chided him when he said that he was old! We both have a lot of living to do yet! Hot air balloon festival is in town, Page, Arizona. I might just jump in one and take off! The freedom to come and go at will is totally freeing and exhilarating.
More later, Kare
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Matt
