A Reassuring Letter

My friend, Brett, is visiting my other friend, Karim, in Dubai this week. I took a similar trip just over a week ago. I wrote Brett the following e-mail this morning:

Brett,

Make sure that karim takes you to Mussandam (the northern tip of Oman) and then finds two young Omani men to take you out into the Gulf waters on an obsolete boat with a small lawnmower engine, no lifeboats, no radio, no communication devices, and no life jackets... oh I forgot to mention.,you can only do that if there is also a growing storm and the original tour you book is cancelled plus everyone else you ask except these two people refuses to take you out. However, these two young men just need money and are willing to risk their lives for $30. Now, this final step is crucial for the ultimate experience: Don't turn the boat back to shore until you are many miles away and the storm really starts. Lightning cracks, a heavy rain drenches you and large waves are crashing your boat, knocking things over, and seesawing the rickety wooden boat back and forth just like the pirateship ride at a theme park. Your knuckles should be white as you grip onto something for fear of falling into the ocean to never be seen again (Remember: there is no such thing as coast guard rescue out here, if you are lucky - you might get picked up by a crew of Iranians smuggling cigarettes across the gulf). Now, ask the Omani boatsmen if everything is okay, once he replies, "Inshallah" in Arabic and Karim unreassuringly translates, "God Willing" then... only then have you got a true taste of Dubai.

Enjoy.

mickey

From Himalayas to Helmand

I'd love to do this type of reporting.

Very Cool World Maps

These world maps resemble underground subway diagrams.

Borneo - Suffering

Some of my readers may remember that I spent nearly 10 days in Borneo last year. I had a very authentic and wild time trekking the Jungles and living with locals. My fantastic experience was made possible by a Swiss-German man, Herman Sholz (see photo below), who I still keep in contact with.

He recently sent me the following link (I actually recognize a few people in the pictures of pigs being slaughtered):

http://advocateviews.blogspot.com/2009/10/call-to-spirits-to-stop-damned-dam.html

This is Herman's Email to Me:

Hello Mickey,


Something new has come up – to keep you updated: the government is planning to build a dam in Kaiduan, near where I live now, and flood the Upper Papar River with the effect that the whole area we visited would drown in a vast lake. Yep, comes kind of a shock, and rather unexpectedly, not even our local politicians were aware of it when the news leaked a couple of weeks ago. They are against it, which is a silver of hope, but just a silver. Why flood this particular area when you can flood another valley close by where there are no inhabitants, and no traditional trails… oh, there was a feasibility study which apparently showed that the area in question was uninhabited. Yeah, just some 2500 locals in 9 villages, negligible, isn’t it… now there are conflicting news, some sources say the dam project (suitable pun, isn’t it) is approved, others say it is only in planning, others again say it was just a preliminary feasibility study. I won’t become an activist – can’t really if I wish to stay here and I really do – but the socio-economic impact of such a dam would be enormous, the impact on the environment catastrophic.


Below an article that was in our newspapers, taken up on Ronnie Klassen’s blog with some thoughts of his own (rather matching mine). The highlights and text in italic are by myself, and the highlighted village names are where we were… some food for your article…


Best regards, Herman


And an article from the local newspaper:

Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Sabah Natives Strikes Back...."we'll defend our lands and rights with our lives"

Malaysia's Prime Minister Dato'Seri Najib's infamous 1Malaysia, People First, Performance Now slogan is now nothing more than just hot air and hogwash. Sabah’s indigenous communities in the interior of Penampang are bemoaning and up in arms against the RM 2.8 Billion Kaiduan Dam which has been approved by the State Government of Sabah. The dam which has yet to obtain any Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) and Social Impact Assessment was given the nod by the State Cabinet via a Letter of Intent(right) to WCT Berhad - yes the same contractor as the Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

The dam, if allowed to commence construction, will submerge 12 square km of forest and agricultural lands. What is worse, it will totally wipe out 9 villages that have been there for hundreds of years. This is a clear violation of the rights of the natives of Penampang for “Prior Free and Informed Consent” must be obtained as stated in the United Nations Declaration on the rights of indigenous people of which Malaysia is a signatory.

The affected villages are Buayan, Terian, Babagon Laut, Timpayasa, Tiku, Longkogungan, Kalanggaan, Pongobonon and Kionop. In addition agricultural land in the 5 villages of Bolotikan, Koiduan, Bisuang, Kogopon and Limbahau alongside the Papar river will be severely affected; notwithstanding the complete destruction of the historical heritage and the unique biological and eco-system of Papar and the Crocker range.

I visited one of the would be affected villages and had the opportunity to speak to Nousi Giun, Chairman of the Joint Action Committee against the dam. It's unbelievable and shocking that after 46 years on the formation of Malaysia, our journey to the village is a clear shame with all the government slogans and promises-the infrastructures are pathetically still 46 years behind time. To sum up my 1 hour chat with Nousi Giun - he made it explicitly clear that "they’re not interested in any compensation, relocation or compromise. We will defend our native land with our lives". The population of the 9 affected villages is approximately 2500, all bonafide Sabahan natives.

What is even more mind-boggling is that WCT Berhad had the cheek to state in their feasibility study report to the State Government that the "dammed dam site” was uninhabited, which is clearly misleading. No one came to the ground and consulted us, added Nousi. The villager’s plight is also supported by environmentalist and renowned NGO's such as PACOS, JICA and JOAS among others who have also provided financial aid in uplifting the living standards of the villagers running in millions.

On the political front and for the record, Penampang is under UPKO, a component member of the coalition of UMNO/Barisan Nasional. The MP who was once rejected by his own constituents is none other than Tan Sri Bernard Dompok. It was reliably learnt that Bernard's silence was because of UMNO's involvement in this dam project. What is even more shocking is that while the natives of Penampang are being ousted from their own lands, Bernard Dompok is busy opening UPKO branches in West Malaysia and recruiting the Orang Asli as members.

Recently as well, I had this rare opportunity in engaging with Datuk Masidi Manjun-Sabah Minister of Tourism and Environmental in Facebook. The engagement was so intense that he flip flop in his text. He had the cheek to claim ignorance in the Koiduan Dam project and further added that even Bernard Dompok is also unaware of the Dam which is costing RM 2.8 Billion of tax payers money. If this is not conscientious stupidity, then Sabahans have voted a bunch of morons into government. Is the Sabah Government being administered by a kitchen cabinet, and on a need to know basis? Who is actually calling the shots in Sabah?

The Koiduan Dam is said to be 3 times larger than the Babagon Dam, also situated in Penampang and richly surrounded by timber. Interestingly enough, during my visit, I noticed that logging has already started which perhaps is one of the reasons why the government is adamant in pursuing the project.

The question to ask here is, "Is this development or destruction? If it's development for whom is it and at whose expense?"

Are Sabah's natives part of One Malaysia or Gone Malaysia?

The government always seems to be putting the cart before the bull - all under the name of development - a convenient and useful catch-word to camouflage corruption, arrogance and incompetence.

A memorandum is currently in the process and the villagers will not hesitate to hand-deliver the memorandum to his Majesty our beloved King, if the State Government of Sabah proceeds with the dam.

Embroidery from Ghana: Quiz Time

A friend recently emailed me the following image. She created an embroidery from the photo of my students in Ghana taking a math quiz. She is framing and sending it to me. Very cool!

Photo or Painting?

Check out this fantastic article on NPR about Photorealism - Photo or Painting?

Can you guess which is the photo and which is the painting?

Wine Release Party + Truly Turkish Meal

Last night, after a hard day of work, I had the pleasure of unwinding with 8 tastes (and several "revisiting" pours) of Wilridge Wines at their winery's Fall release party. The best part - the winery is located in the heart of one of Seattle's most beautiful neighborhoods, Madrona, in the middle of the city and only a few minutes drive from my house. From the outside, the winery looks like any other house on the block. White, wooden and very vertical to provide views of Lake Washington over the other homes down below. However, slide open the rackey metal garage door at the base of the home and your olfactory senses are immediately imbibed with the smell of red and white wine. With my nostrils aroused, I quickly pleased my palate and appeased my stress levels as well.

One of the most interesting aspects of this tasting was getting to compare Wilridge's newest releases with older vintages that came from the exact same vines. There was a Merlot from 2006 and 2003 to compare - surprisingly, I enjoyed the newer one. It had a bit more mmpphhh for me. I don't know if that is a technical wine term or not? Mmmmppphh. I was also extremely impressed with the '08 Pinot Grigio and '07 Semillon. The Nebbiollo Old Vines were also very unique. I left with two wines - purchased yes, because they tasted great but more because I was so impressed with this truly entrepreneurial and passionate operation. Getting to meet the winemakers and hear their storyw as very fun. Inviting people - I'd recommend you check em out. And if you live around Seattle, this Saturday and Sunday, Wilridge is crushing their most recent harvest at their winery in Madrona. The recent cold weather froze many of the vines and so everything has been harvested in a rush. All are invited to participate and this includes a great lunch prepared by the winemakers!

After drinking some wine, and working up an appetite, we walked two blocks south to Bistro Turkuaz, a quaint Turkish restaurant that had been open little over two years. I was more than pleasantly surprised with the entire experience: easily the best Turkish meal I have had outside of Turkey - and I've tried a lot of Turkish places.

The restaurant is owned by a Turkish woman who moved here from Germany - her German accent definitely belies her Turkish heritage and cooking abilities. She employs her children - so it is truly a family run operation. The restaurant is small - maybe enough seating for 30 and the menu is short. But, very sweet as is the wine list (although I recommend ordering an Efes, an excellent Turkish pilsner).

The house specialty appetizer is Acuka - a roasted red pepper and walnut spread that comes served with warm pita for dipping. This dish is sprinkled with a bit of magic. The Mucver was also excellent - a pan-friend Zuchinni pancake with yogurt sauce. Make sure to request some sumac and red pepper spice to sprinkle over your dishes - I was impressed she had it, something not so hard to find but definitely common in any true Turkish restaurant.

So most Turkish restaurants serve kebabs and kofte, but not like Bistro Turkuaz - this restaurant takes it to another level. Not only are the spices and texture just right, but unlike many Turkish joints, this bistro places emphasis on presentation. The meat comes skewered on elegant, ornamented metal skewers. The mixed Kebab plate was a great way to sample a range of meats with my highlight being the Kofte - a minced and mixed lamb/beef patty. Mmm mmm delicious. Remembering this meal is making me hungry. We also enjoyed the Turkuaz Special - a grilled lamb dish served over cubed pita and Patlican Sote (oven roasted eggplant) all topped with tomato and yogurt sauce. Excellent as well.

To complete our meal, we shared a portion of homemade walnut baklava. Unlike most baklava I have eaten, overly drizzled in simple sugar and honey, this was not too sweet, not too dull - it was just right. Enjoy that with a Turkish coffee, and from start to finish, this meal is the real deal.

Details:
Wilridge Winery is located at 1416 34th Avenue Seattle, WA USA.
Phone Number: 206-325-3051
http://www.wilridgewinery.com/

Bistro Turkuaz. 1114 34th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122
Phone Number: 206-324-3039
http://www.bistroturkuaz.com/

Windows 7 Party Photos

 See previous Windows 7 Launch Party post for background details on why we dressed so nerdy...

A toast to good ol' Windows 7.

My friend Adam gettin down and nerdy.

Rakesh and Friend - they missed the nerdy dress-up memo. So I warped the photo to make em look cool.

Bernard + Adam = Extraordinerd

Party on... or not. Yes - the night was slow to start...

Did I mention I baked a homemade Windows 7 cake? recipe at http://www.singleguycooks.blogspot.com/

Wouldn't want the glasses to fall off... I couldn't see a thing without 'em.

And the night ended out on CapHill - dressed as you see us now. The outfits were a hit with the ladies and instrumental in continuining our late night celebration of Windows 7 - which releases on October 22 and truly is a great product. No joke.

Gayle Pescud's "Ghanaian food goes global and 'You are invited' "

Gayle Pescud lives and works (volunteers) in Ghana. She is also an avid writer about the Ghanaian people and their way of life. Her recent post, Ghanaian food goes global and "You are invited" takes readers on a delectable, stomach churning ride through the typical Ghanaian menu. She draws on the experiences of fellow foreigners who have enjoyed and survived Ghanaian food. She even quoted my blog twice.

Her post begins, "Mushy, gooey, fragrant, grainy, tasty, starchy, spicy, creamy, rotund, freaking amazing—these are just some of the adjectives bloggers use to describe Ghanaian cuisine. From Seoul to London, Guangzhou to Tamale, people are blogging about Ghanaian food."


Enjoy.

Windows 7 Launch Party: I'm a PC Geek!

In an effort to celebrate the release of Windows 7 (on Oct. 22), support my company (Microsoft), and in the spirit of good fun (host a themed party), I was one of the many Microsofties who hosted a Windows 7 Launcy party this weekend.

Here's the deal: "Microsoft invited members of the public to apply to become official Windows 7 Launch Party hosts. Selected hosts receive online access to various party materials and a Web site to which they can upload photos from their party and chat with other party hosts across the country."

I was selected as a host... but my party was not the typical one. It was far from what Microsoft suggested: click here to see what the company was thinking.

While I am certainly a proud supporter of the company, and very excited for Windows 7, I was not about to make popcorn and sit my laptop with friends to show them all th:e cool new features. I had grander plans and I just wanted to have a good time... the party's theme: I'm a PC Geek. That meant - show up dressed like a PC Nerd (see the invite I made to the left).

What is a PC Geek? Like this guy to the left- the one from the PC and Mac Ads. I wanted to make a slight mockery of the party - but not because I thought the party was a bad idea or uncool (I think Microsoft generated great buzz with the party), but because that is what makes it fun and got people excited. Furthermore, dressed as nerds, the plan was to head out on the town that night and evangelize the product even further. When asked, why the hell are you dressed like that at a bar? "Because Windows 7 is about to launch and we ar celebrating!"

I hoped that the party could have real impact beyond my circle of friends. So what happened? Well, it was last night and it was a blast! I'll be posting photos and details from the party (which took place last night) shortly - it was definitely a hit!

Santa Fe Photos Continued

Santa Fe's Multicolored Truck - Three Views.

Santa Fe: An Appetite for Art and Eating

So what brought me to Santa Fe?

With an extended Labor Day, something I now appreciate as an employed person, I decided to join my parents for their last weekend of a full month’s stay in Santa Fe. I took a late Southwest flight on Friday from Seattle to see my parents in their favorite get away and soon to be second home. After weeks of partying and adjusting to Seattle, nothing sounded better than a relaxing weekend in Santa Fe with my two favorite people in the world.

Oh and it was fun too…

Art was certainly the theme of the last three days. In a literal sense, we looked at paintings, prints, photography, crafts – you name it. Santa Fe was hosting an arts & crafts market in the central plaza, a common occurrence, and we spent a little bit of each day perusing the many stalls. Of interesting note: Santa Fe has become the second biggest art market in the country behind NYC. Surprising until you visit Santa Fe’s many, many galleries and artisan shops. At this point, it is getting more difficult to sift through all the average work (to put it nicely) and find unique, quality work.

That said, I am proud to announce I purchased my first piece of art --- something I hope to continue and incorporate into my blog. My new apartment is beautiful, but the walls are bare.  “May all in this kitchen be blessed & all that have been here & all that will be here” reads the bottom of the #18 of 36 print  I purchased from artist Jitsudo Ancheta and his wife. I spotted the piece on my first day in the market – and bought it on my last hour. It is a wood block print inspired by the artist’s time as a monk in Japan studying Zen Buddhism. I really enjoyed speaking with the artist. His passion for his work was evident and he certainly emanated the peaceful vibe that his artwork professes.  The print itself was created using various colors of ink applied to a hand carved woodblock and pressed onto the paper. I think this piece will look fantastic in my kitchen.

The Art of Eating

We also ate well ---  a given whenever my family gets together (which has prompted my new blog: single guy cooking. In Santa Fe, every meal was cooked at home (above: BBQ Brisket Tacos with cole slaw on fresh corn tortilla) with one exception: the tamales at Johnny’s and, damn, are they good.  

Johnny’s is a small convenience store in town that, along with its owner, hasn’t changed since the day it opened. Fresh tamales are brought in from the small town of Espanola and kept in a small box on the counter. Three choices, all three are good but the red chile pork will melt in your mouth. 

 

Did I mention that every meal was spicy, even dessert: a Mexican Chocolate Ice Cream by Boulder Ice Cream --- highly recommended.

Posts about our home cooked meals with recipes can be found at http://www.singleguycooks.blogspot.com/.

Hempfest 2009 - Seattle Celebrates Marijuana

I don't smoke pot (I really don't)... but who could resist the amazing people watching at the world's largest marijuana festival. Direct quote from random passerby, "Hempfest is to Weed as Octoberfest is to beer." Enough said. Let the journey in photos begin.

Hempfest took place along a couple miles of ocean front park. It was quite a nice venue although the long and narrow space created quite a bit of traffic.

"Can I take your photo?" I asked.

His reponse, "I'm so high - I don't give a shit what you do." Definitely a veteran.

Check out the contraption on his back. This fellow was able to play guitar, drums and some sort of tambourine while walking around, singing, and being high as the sky.

The pot ferry --- this was definitely an occasion to dress up.

Very popular. Seattle is certainly home to some potheads. The line took over 30 minutes to reach the entrance. Most people were smoking pot in open, in line and in a very high quantity.

Wide view.
We had Vegan hippies...


and we had Christians screaming that all guys should go to hell. They were not well received.

And people were even breakdancing... while high on pot.

Seafair Sunday

“We are headed through that passage under the I-90 bridge.” David signaled towards a small opening in the bridge (see photo to left). The US Navy led the way in an enormous barge, reminiscent of the water to land troop carriers seen in D-Day movies. On command, as the Navy signaled the passage was officially open, two thousand plus boats of all shapes, sizes and conditions oriented themselves in the same direction and an organized chaos ensued.

On the other side of the bridge, afternoon hydroplane races and more beer drinking in float rafts amidst other Seafair revelers awaited us. David pointed our boat towards the destination and shifted the throttle forward. Everyone wanted to get to the other side, throw down anchor, and claim a spot to continue their Sunday fun for the afternoon. With smiles on our sun tanned (or burned) faces and wind in our hair, we followed suit.

I’ll be surprised if all of these boats, with all of these intoxicated people (and drivers) will make it through that tiny gap without a problem. I thought to myself. Then again, this is the 60th anniversary of Seafair so they must know what they are doing.

Luckily, David was experienced and had positioned our boat perfectly such that we led the pack. Glancing off the stern of the boat, I watched as wake after wake from all the boats collided causing the water to chop, but do little to impede the stampede (yes, think cattle) to make the southward journey under the I-90.

A few more hours of beer, sun, rafts, and great people watching. And it is not as if the first half of our Sunday was so bad. If you thought watching the Blue Angels from the beach the day before (Saturday) was exciting, imagine watching it from a boat. From 1 to 2 pm, Navy jets (I imagine F-16s) screamed overhead – the deafening roar of the engines trailing the planes as they broke the speed barrier leaving a loop-d-loop of white smoke behind them. Stunt after stunt; my spine tingled. See photos below.
Let’s step back a second.

Last Sunday, I was fortunate to be invited out on the boat of a friend of a friend, who is now- my friend, David. A native of Seattle, David has been enjoying Seafair for as long as he could remember. I see why he still gets excited for the weekend. David had a six person speed boat – perfect for the day. Large enough that we wouldn’t get pushed around, but small and nimble to be easily operated through the crowded waters.

In its most basic sense, Seafair is just a big party on the water. What makes it so cool is the diversity of participants: from drunk frat boys and sorority girls doing keg stands and blasting music to the classic sail boat with a Paul & Shark attired crew. Enormous fishing boats are converted into day parties with barbecues, pseudo diving boards, and dance floors.
Kayaks riskily maneuver between boats – it seems people will use and do just about anything to be out on the water. Groups of smaller boats tie together and party across the decks with rafts and inner tubes drifted alongside. And we even get a taste of Mardi Gras with beads and boobs… some not so pleasant.
All in all, Seafair was a blast. Finding my way on to a boat was instrumental in making the experience. Next summer, I am determined to have my own boat and host a party of my own.

The photo above is the cut between Lake Union and Lake Washington. Below is Gas Works park - industrial buildings turn art work and a really pleasant and unique place to hang out.

Saturday at Seafair

Seafair is arguably Seattle's largest summer celebration. A weekend that utilizes Lake Washington (photo left) to its maximum capacity. The ultimate goal for anyone trying to enjoy Seafair: get into the water, and preferably, on a boat.

Unfortunately, I was unable to secure a spot on a boat, Saturday, but may be lucky to enjoy a day on the water on Sunday. We will see.

The amount of boats on the water is a spectacle in itself.

All was not lost, my friend, Mike, and I found a great viewing spot from the Madrona beach park. It was quite a scene - everyone was in high spirits: grilling, swimming, and then pausing to stare upwards as the Blue Angels' Air Show roared by... definitely the highlight of my afternoon.

One of the planes dazzles viewers with a sweeping arch over the ocean.

Madrona "Beach" was a cool place to hang out. Unfortunately, I did not know to wear swim trunks.

The city closed down the I-90 bridge across Lake Washington during the air show so Seattleites could gather and watch the planes.

Aside from an air show, the weekend is full of events such as hydroplane racing, a parade, etc. Great fun!

www.Seafair.com

Seattle Weekend 2

The light sunburn on my face is evidence of another great week and weekend in Seattle. More fun in the sun (photo left: on my friend's boat in Lake Washington), barbecuing on roof tops and plenty of active time spent outdoors.

Saturday:

Saturday's main event was the Capitol Hill Block Party (photo below) – an all day bash with live music, food, too much beer, and a circus of people. All in all, the event was underwhelming due to a lack of energy despite the large crowd. People watching was definitely the highlight. As I have said, Cap Hill is home to a diversity of characters – all of which were out in full form this weekend.

The headline band for the Block Party was Sonic Youth, a slightly over-the-hill rock band that many of my friends had never heard of. I was under the impression that Sonic Youth may in some way embody grunge Seattle rock so I was excited for the performance. I even "warmed up" by listening to Nirvana's Nevermind album on full blast in anticipation. Incorrect assumption. Sonic Youth failed to release my inner grunge and did not seem to appeal to many of my fellow rockers. No mosh pit. No head banging. Nothing.

Sunday in the Sun:

With 90 degree heat, I panicked that I somehow was back in Dallas on Sunday. Except Dallas does not have beautiful hiking in the woods (we ventured to Little SI mountain in North Bend only 30 minutes away) and then a beach scene at Lake Washington to rinse off the dirt and cool down the heated muscles. All in a day – hiking, lounging at the beach, tubing on a boat, then grilled steaks on a rooftop at sunset. Life is tough, Dad.

I'm still blown away by how great the summer in Seattle is. But, no place is perfect, and as we all know or have heard: Seattle can be pretty grey in the winter. I am hesitantly curious how my body, mind, and soul will react to weeks without sunlight. Only time, and cloudy weather, will tell. My friend, John, also a Texan, has a good outlook on the rainy weather: "Rather than sit inside and be depressed, I just do what I want to do… in the rain!"

------ References ------

Capitol Hill Block Party - http://www.capitolhillblockparty.com/

Little SI Mountain. http://www.mountsi.com/ - although definitely not a place to reflect in peace and solitude, Mount SI, a very popular hiking destination, is a great way to get out and exercise. It definitely beats the treadmill or stair climber in ambience and can be equally as grueling. We opted for Little SI (only a 2.4 mile trip to the summit). We wanted to be to the beach by 2 pm. Mission accomplished.

Madison Park Beach Area. – Technically not a beach, since it lacks sand, but still maintaining all the necessary beach elements: girls in bikinis, volleyball nets, a floating dock with diving board, and a refreshing lake in which to cool off between tanning sessions. http://www.seattle.gov/parks/park_detail.asp?id=369

Madison & Washington Park

The size, age, and color of these trees is very representative of one of Seattle's most beautiful neighborhood on the West side of Lake Washington known as Washington Park.

A WikiPedia history lesson: Washington Park is a neighborhood in east central Seattle, Washington, named after the city park to its northwest. It is bounded on the east by 38th and 37th Avenues E. and Hillside Drive E., beyond which are Madison Park and Denny-Blaine; on the south by Lake Washington Boulevard, beyond which is Denny-Blaine and Madison Valley; on the west by Washington Park, and on the north by the private Broadmoor community and golf club.

Washington Park is home to many historic homes including one from 1907 that houses the current President of the University of Washington. This house is situated on 5 acres (20,000 m2) looking over Lake Washington and has grounds rivaled by few homes in the city. The house and land was donated to the University with the clause that it must be occupied by the President of U.W.

The neighborhood's main thoroughfares are E. Madison Street (northeast- and southwest-bound) and Lake Washington Boulevard E. (northwest- and southeast-bound).

VW Bus: A Classic

I spotted this mint condition VW Bus on Capitol Hill in Seattle. One shot is in B&W with a hint of pink coloring, the other full color. I love the lines in this photo as well as the simplicity.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Type_2

Ghana – Day Out with My Students

Before departing from Ghana, and after four weeks of hard work, I wanted to treat my students to a day-off of school and in the city. After morning break, everyone quickly changed out of their uniforms and we were off to the Mall for lunch, shopping and to catch a movie. None of my students had been to the cinema before, most not even to the mall. It was a lot of fun!

My students enjoy lunch at Barcelo's at the Accra Shopping Mall.

The cab ride to and from the mall was cramped – seven people in a tiny car… but definitely fun.

The end of a great day of fun. My students posing in front of the school sign. The next day, Friday, was my final day as their teacher.

Seattle Week 1

My ten days in Seattle have been nothing short of tremendous. A great weekend with my parents: shopping for my apartment, eating great meals, and enjoying the summer weather. Starting work at Microsoft and paving a new social path in a brand new city with a cultural wildly different than anything I have experienced before. Much like my travels abroad, if the past ten days are a bellwether of what is to come, I am in for one hell of an adventure.

Bango and Spoons: Open mic night at the Hopvine Pub (every Wednesday) brings in all sorts. This duo stole the show.

As the stereotype portrays, Seattle is an alternative city. A diverse city. An "interesting" city. I chose to live in Capitol Hill, a beautiful neighborhood up a hill and to the East of downtown. At the "summit" of the hill, one can look West across downtown to a beautiful sunset over Puget Sound and Elliot Bay, South towards a collection of mountain ranges (including, I believe, Ranier), East to Lake Washington and the Microsoft Campus in Redmond, or North to Lake Union and a collection of docks, yachts, and sea planes. The diversity of views from Capitol Hill mirrors the eclectic j cast of characters that form a very eccentric, in-your-face community. From multimillion dollar mansions to park picnic tables, one can find all types of accommodation in Capitol Hill. Starving artists, grunge rockers, hipsters, tech yuppies/geeks, and gardening grandma are just a few that inhabit the many spaces.

My new apartment, not quite furnished but still beautiful. It was constructed in 1930 by a famous Seattle architect, Fred Anhalt.

Capitol Hill is home to much of Seattle's best nightlife and clubbing as well. In my opinion, a far more unique place to party than Belltown. Belltown, an amalgamation of new condos and chic loungey bars, is a newer neighborhood often deemed as "yuppie". It lacks the character of Capitol Hill and seriously belies the Seattle counterculture and alternative scene. Although at first glance I was a bit skeptical of Capitol Hill (imagine the lower east side of NYC… on crack)- I have really come to love it!

Seattle Summer (Photo Below: not the prettiest view, but looking over Puget Sound from a rooftop BBQ)

Since arriving, nothing has held truer than the fact: Seattleites seize the summer. The weather, vibe, and ambience of a Seattle summer are unparalleled to anywhere else I have been in the United States. Amazing weather coupled with limitless activities and a frenzy to take advantage of the sun creates several months of splendor. Nightly barbecues, day hikes, kayaking and a festival every weekend are just a few of the many ways I have enjoyed Seattle's summer in only two short weeks. I'd recommend visiting now!

Reference Guide:

Activities:

• Hiking Tiger Mountain. A short 20-minute ride from downtown Seattle, Tiger Mountain off I-90 (Exit 20) is a great way to exercise without going to the gym. The short hike can be approached on an easier 2.5 mile hike to the summit, or a strenuous straight shot to the top up the Cable Line route. I opted for the latter.
  
• Kayaking. I couldn't think of a better way to get a total body workout than two hours of kayaking from Lake Union to Lake Washington. Don't forget the views are amazing. Check out http://www.nwoc.com/ (The Northwest Outdoor Center) for more information and rentals.
  

Shopping:

• Area 51. Located in the heart of Capitol Hill, this showroom and store displays great vintage and new mid-century modern furniture. From vintage George Nelson dressers to new Eames rockers, this is a great place to find a few unique pieces to furnish an apartment.
  
• Harem. Morocco, India, Persia and more. Harem stocks a wide range of antiques and newer items from all over the world though seemingly mostly with a Middle Eastern or Near Asian touch. They also offer belly dancing classes; I'll pass.
  
• Chartreuse. Similar to Area 51, but with a much more eccentric owner, this Belltown shop stocks a wide range of vintage and new furnishing and home accessories. Highly recommended if you are after Design Within Reach style furniture at much lower prices.
  
• Ballard. Ballard is not a shop, but an area or neighborhood. Ballard Ave and Market Ave are home to a great market every Sunday and a collection of really cool shops, restaurants, and entertainment. A nice change of pace from Seattle, this neighborhood has a small town feel and a young population to enjoy. Recommended Shops: Blackbird (Clothing), Collective (Furniture), Volterra (Food), La Carta de Oaxaca (The Best Mexican Food in Seattle, no questions asked!)
  

Restaurants:

• Lark. Located in a small house on 12^th Ave in southern Capitol Hill, the unique ambience matches the unique presentation of all the dishes. In terms of taste, the flavors got progressively better as the night went on. The best dishes were the fresh Burrata starter and the meat based dishes stole the show. A special pig's trotter (pig's feet) was very good – reminiscent of a crispy pulled pork formed into a cake. And to end, the mission fig tartin with homemade malt ice cream filled me up complete.
  
• Dahlia Lounge. My father went to Dahlia Lounge over a decade ago during a trip to Seattle for business. At the time, Tom Douglas was a hot chef- known nationally for his approach to Pacific NW cuisine. He likened Douglas to Texas' Stephan Pyles who has turned Southwest and Texas cuisine into a gastronomical art. Unlike we expected, Dahlia Lounge had aged well like a fine French wine. The menu is diverse with a focus on seafood and pan-Asian flavors – Indian, Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian as well. Dahlia Lounge cooks Salmon right – but the halibut filet and clam dish took top honors. My dad claims it was the best clams of his life.
  
• Black Bottle. Black Bottle is a tightly packed restaurant in a corner space in the heart of Belltown. Patrons spill out onto the street enjoying excellent drinks, really well-priced gourmet food, and great people watching. Black Bottle comes highly recommended as a drinks and dinner destination before a night out in Belltown. The value can't be beat.
  

Harriman State Park

"Beware: Bear Frequenting Area" the sign read.


That definitely caught my eye when I entered the Harriman State Park in Island Park, Idaho this morning by mountain bike. However, sighting a bear was not my goal, I wanted to see a moose. I pedaled up, down, and around the beautiful state park for over two and a half hours - not a moose I found. However, I was not disappointed. The natural beauty of Harriman State Park and the peaceful solidarity I found while riding the park's 20+ miles of trails was more than a pleasant surprise.


For only being 11,000 acres and next door to Yellowstone, arguably the United States' greatest national park, Harriman State Park has a lot to offer (its actually part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem). The Henry's Fork river meanders through the park, two lakes make for beautiful bird watching, and trails for hiking, horseback riding, and biking, are plentiful. The park is well-kept: trails are well-cut but still natural, no trash, no "graffiti", and best of all --- motorized roads are limited thus motorized homes do not find a way to block beautiful views.


Given its proximity to Yellowstone, many most likely drive right past Harriman. Fine by me. Probably Harriman's greatest treasure is the quiet. In my two and a half hours in the park, I saw maybe ten people. And that was only around the main parking lots and central destinations. Once on the 4 mile bike path to Golden Lake, I didn't see a sole... and luckily not a bear.


Harriman also has a unique history as a cattle ranch, which seems to still be working, and was owned by the Union Pacific Railroad investors. The railroad ranch buildings, old ranch barns, and original cabins are still in existence. Cabins can be rented for overnight stays --- camping in tents is not allowed.


Finally, riding through the park, watching the fly fishermen working the day's hatch and trumpeter swans gliding above Golden Lake is made even better by the beautiful view of the Tetons in the distance.


A Bit of History (Not Written by Me)


The Railroad Ranch In 1902, several officials of the Oregon Shortline Railroad and other investors purchased what is now Harriman State Park. Called the Railroad Ranch, the property was the private retreat of the Harrimans of Union Pacific Railroad fame and the Guggenheims, then prominent in copper.



The rich wildlife habitat has been preserved since the turn of the century when the owners established a private hunting reserve and working cattle ranch. For 75 years, the ranch maintained healthy game, waterfowl and fish populations, allowing todays park visitors to observe a rare concentration of wildlife in its scenic, natural surrounding.



Twenty-seven of the original Railroad Ranch buildings, from the cookhouse to the horse barn, are still intact, furnished and carefully maintained.



Overnight Stays



Although camping is not available, the group facility is open year-round. It is perfect for overnight church outings, family reunions and ski weekends with friends. If you're looking for a little more privacy for your small group, how about renting the original Ranch Manager's House?



This four-bedroom log home has a modern kitchen, a rustic knotty-pine living room with a stone fireplace and a screened sun porch. It is fully furnished and rents for $150 per night. There is a non-refundable $25 reservation fee. Call 208-558-7368 to reserve the group facility or Ranch Manager's House.



Activities



During the summer there are regular tours of the Railroad Ranch buildings. Fishing, hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking are other ways to experience the beauty of the area. Dont forget to bring your camera. There are breath-taking wildflower displays in the sage meadows and pastureland which dominate the landscape.



Visitors often see elk, deer and moose, particularly in the morning and evening. The views of the Tetons are spectacular. When winter comes, grab your cross-country skis. You can ski to the warming houseopen on weekendsand look out over the Henrys Fork to watch bald eagles and trumpeter swans.



Henry's Fork



Meandering nine miles through park meadows and forests, the Henrys Fork of the Snake River flows gently year-round, because of warm springs in the area. One third of the Rocky Mountain trumpeter swan population winters here. Trumpeter swans are the largest of North American waterfowl and the worlds heaviest flying bird. The fly fishing on this stream is world famous.


Read More Here:
http://www.stateparks.com/harriman.html

Park City, Utah

July 3rd and 4th, 2009

After two days on a river, and too many hours on the road, arriving to Park City was a well-earned (relative to our situation, not the world) comfort. Neither my father nor I had ever been to Park City, Utah before but we had both heard and read great things.

Park City is definitely cool, but definitely a bit cut and dried: not quite as beautiful as Jackson Hole or Aspen, and not nearly as diverse and eccentric as Santa Fe or Taos. The population is definitely a cast of characters: bikers, hippies, fishermen, rich bankers, and struggling artists; but there is little diversity of ethnicity and backgrounds.

The city itself is very cute. Snuggled in between mountains, the main street runs along a fairly steep hill lined with the typical Western galleries, funky furniture shops, cowboy clothiers, and a variety of restaurants. As my dad might put it, a more "evolved Americana."

The highlights of our stay in Park City:

1) The Seared Chili Duck with Green Chili Macaroni at Purple Sage. Wow. http://www.purplesageparkcity.com/

2) The 4th of July Parade and Party at the Park. Park City really lights up for the Fourth. A fun parade makes it way down main street towards the Park where local bands, hippy dancers, and BBQ masters set the mood for a great day in the sun to celebrate our country's Independence.

3) Great Live Music and a fun bar scene --- the margaritas at the Spur were up to snuff. http://www.thespurbarandgrill.com/

My dad bet me a few dollars that I would not dance with this woman.

We took tequila shots with the 1800 "girl" to get shirts and a beanie.

4) Our room and the luxuries of the Sky Lodge. http://www.theskylodge.com/

All in all, this post is short because I don't feel "passionate" about Park City. Now, do not get me wrong, its a fun, beautiful, and entertaining city. We definitely enjoyed ourselves and I would probably go back. However, compared to the rest of our trip, Park City just felt a bit... pedestrian.