A view of the beautiful country the railroad passes through. What a sky!
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Cumbres and Toltec Railroad
Heading north, we stopped in Chamas and rode the Cumbres and Toltec Railroad, the longest and highest railroad in the nation. The town is filled with railroad buffs.
Petroglyph National Monument
Visiting the Petroglyph National Monument just outside of Albuquerque. Clambered up on a rocky mountain to see lots of petroglyphs left by the prolific Anasazi. This one looks like two babas kissing.
Artist
One of the artists at the Indian Market. There were 1,500 artists showing their wares at the market, and an estimated 100,000 visitors over the two days. It was fun and educational, but there were really no bargains to be found.
Diva
When in Santa Fe, look at art. This is the sculpture that Jen wanted to buy. A bargain at only $9,500.
Camel taste on a donkey budget!
Camel taste on a donkey budget!
Del Mar
This is one view of the gorgeous B&B we stayed in while in Santa Fe. An indoor swimming pool, lovely art, hospitable hostestess, and two great dogs. What more could you want!
Santuario
This is a little church outside of Santa Fe. In a side room, there is a hole in the floor where the dirt is supposed to have healing powers. We gathered up some dirt for various friends.
Acoma Pueblo
We visited Sky City, home of the Acomo Pueblo, descendants of the Anasazi. It reminded us of Civita in Italy, another city on a high mesa. They are a very industrious tribe, operating a casino, a cattle business, and other industries for the good of the tribe. Imagine a casino with no alcohol allowed. Plenty of cigarette smoking tho.
Canyon de Chelly
In addition to the dwellings, the Anasazi created petroglyphs high on the walls of the canyon. This is an antelope and a snake!
Canyon de Chelly
We visited the cliff dwelllings of Canyon de Chelly. What a beautiful place. A thousand years ago, the Anasazi built adobe walls into natural caves high up on the walls of the canyon.
Sunday, August 14, 2005
At the Meteor Crater
What a big smile, since she is standing on terra firma rather than perched on some fragile platform suspended over a vast emptiness. Every time I looked at her in the car, she had that same goofy blissful smile.
Vacations are good.
Vacations are good.
At the Meteor Crater
Standing out on the view platform looking over the crater. You notice that Gail is not with me. Too scared of heights to go out there.
Meteor Crater
I must have been 8 or 10 years old when we visited the Meteor Crater. It looks pretty much exactly as I remember it, but it does have a pretty nice museum which I am sure wasn't there way back then.
It is essentially a very large hole in the ground. It is so large, they claim breathlessly, that you could hold 20 football games at once with 2 million people watching from the sides.
It is essentially a very large hole in the ground. It is so large, they claim breathlessly, that you could hold 20 football games at once with 2 million people watching from the sides.
More Space House
The Space House also has interesting out buildings. They fit the house perfectly, but I can't imagine what they actually do with them when the aliens aren't visiting.
On the Road to Santa Fe
Driving along HW 40 East from Needles to Williams, we came across the Space House. It fits right in with all the Indian Teepees along the side of the road selling moccasins to tourists, except that no one appears to be making money off of it.
I have never seen things like this in any country but America.
I have never seen things like this in any country but America.
Monday, July 25, 2005
Balanced rocks
Occasionally, driving on West Cliff Drive, I'll see a group of rocks balanced precariously on the rip rap. I have no idea who balances them, or when, but I always love to see them. Public art? A gift to the community? A private meditation?
Who knows?
Who knows?
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
What's wrong with this picture?
This is a perfect example of what is wrong with most institutionalized religion these days. God's unchanging word, huh? Why do people today choose to believe in a god that was defined by people who thought the world was flat? Rather than glorifying a god who expands to encompass our own expanding understanding of the grand universe, they have kept him locked inside a knowledge base established 2000 years ago.
They don't treat their medical needs by following the medical practices of 2000 years ago. Why do they treat their spiritual needs by following the spiritual practices of 2000 years ago?
If god's word doesn't change, how can he speak to me in my ever changing world?
They don't treat their medical needs by following the medical practices of 2000 years ago. Why do they treat their spiritual needs by following the spiritual practices of 2000 years ago?
If god's word doesn't change, how can he speak to me in my ever changing world?
Monday, July 11, 2005
UCC
On July 3, 2005, the leaders of the United Church of Christ voted 80% in favor of supporting marriage equality. On July 7, 2005, four bombs went off in London, killing 52 people at last count. On July 9, a fire was started and anti-gay grafitti was found in a Middlebrook, Virginia UCC church.
The two events are not equal in impact or in horror. The fire at the church was quickly extinguished, and no one was killed. But nonetheless, the motives were the same. To terrorize innocent people into not standing up for what they believe in. My heart goes out to the members of the Middlebrook church. I don't know if their church was actively involved in marriage equality, or even how their representatives voted on the issue. But they are suffering on my behalf, and I appreciate it.
A Londoner set up a website called http://www.werenotafraid.com/ as a way to show the world that terrorist would not change the way people lead their lives. It is a very moving site.
I stand with the Londoners and with church in Middlebrook.
We're not afraid.
The two events are not equal in impact or in horror. The fire at the church was quickly extinguished, and no one was killed. But nonetheless, the motives were the same. To terrorize innocent people into not standing up for what they believe in. My heart goes out to the members of the Middlebrook church. I don't know if their church was actively involved in marriage equality, or even how their representatives voted on the issue. But they are suffering on my behalf, and I appreciate it.
A Londoner set up a website called http://www.werenotafraid.com/ as a way to show the world that terrorist would not change the way people lead their lives. It is a very moving site.
I stand with the Londoners and with church in Middlebrook.
We're not afraid.
Friday, July 08, 2005
London
As people say, we are all Londoners today. There is something so foundational to me about London. When I stood before the tomb of the first Queen Elizabeth, I don't know why I burst into tears, except that it felt like the beginning place of so much that we love and hold dear.
Two friends from England were visiting us a few years ago, not long after 911, and as we were talking about New York, I just started crying. They were very supportive and sweet; and now I think about them being in the same emotional place.
I found this picture on Flickr, and I think it is so evocative of the Brits. Polite and generous, yet sturdy and brave. The thing that makes my heart swell is the resilience of the Londoners. They are indeed a "plucky lot," and I am proud to count them as part of my ancestral heritage.
There are more photos on Flickr of the bombings in London if you are interested in seeing pictures taken by non-news folks who happened to be there. Just click on "london sign, by wildfalcon," and poke around a little.
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Laughing on the 4th
We resurrected our Fourth of July party, and we had a blast. It's a great party because we have such wonderful, fun friends, and because they bring such good food, and because they are so talented, and because they are so appreciative of people willing to take a chance of performing in front of the group.
My favorite was Julian, who is just four, and who wanted to jump. And jump he did to thunderous applause.
It was a great day to be with friends.
My favorite was Julian, who is just four, and who wanted to jump. And jump he did to thunderous applause.
It was a great day to be with friends.
Thursday, June 09, 2005
Zoli
Sweet Zoli died this morning, leaving sadness in the hearts of so many people who loved him, and who loved his family.
My favorite memory of Zoli is when he would sing with us. He would tilt his head back and warble, so excited by the sounds we were all making together.
He will be sorely missed.
My favorite memory of Zoli is when he would sing with us. He would tilt his head back and warble, so excited by the sounds we were all making together.
He will be sorely missed.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
Con Brio at Sunset Center
On May 13 and 14, Con Brio, Cantiamo, and Ensemble Monterey performed the world premiere of Stephen Tosh's Covenant of Light at Holy Cross and Sunset Center, in Carmel.
It was a wonderful collaboration between three wonderful music organizations and a skilled composer.
Having the opportunity to participate in such a glorious adventure is worth the lack of sleep!
This picture is of some of the kids who participated. Con Brio is the highest level of five different choruses in the Cabrillo Youth Chorus. These kids are fabulous! They rock!
Click on the link under the picture for some more photos of this event.
It was a wonderful collaboration between three wonderful music organizations and a skilled composer.
Having the opportunity to participate in such a glorious adventure is worth the lack of sleep!
This picture is of some of the kids who participated. Con Brio is the highest level of five different choruses in the Cabrillo Youth Chorus. These kids are fabulous! They rock!
Click on the link under the picture for some more photos of this event.
Sunday, May 15, 2005
Pixel
I was soundly chastized by my sister for not having a picture of her rabbit on my page. So here is a picture of Pixel, about to get in trouble for gnawing on a poster.
I have never had the pleasure of meeting Pixel, but I have heard much about her. She sounds like a real cutie pie.
Even though I really like dogs best, I try to be open and affirming, so...
Pixel, Welcome to Casa de Babas!
I have never had the pleasure of meeting Pixel, but I have heard much about her. She sounds like a real cutie pie.
Even though I really like dogs best, I try to be open and affirming, so...
Pixel, Welcome to Casa de Babas!
Saturday, May 14, 2005
Diversity Partnership
This morning, Gail and I hosted a brunch for the Diversity Partnership. We are helping raise money for a $1 million endowment which will provide funding for LGBT programs.
Margaret and Clare came to give their well-rehearsed presentation. The County Clerk also came; she is a very welcome ally to gays and lesbians, expecially around the marriage issue.
And our friend Maria gave an eloquent and impassioned speech about the importance of the Diversity Partnership's funding of Triange Speakers.
It was a great morning for a great cause. And my Gail cooked a ton of GREAT FOOD!
To see a few more pictures, click on "Let's Eat!"
Margaret and Clare came to give their well-rehearsed presentation. The County Clerk also came; she is a very welcome ally to gays and lesbians, expecially around the marriage issue.
And our friend Maria gave an eloquent and impassioned speech about the importance of the Diversity Partnership's funding of Triange Speakers.
It was a great morning for a great cause. And my Gail cooked a ton of GREAT FOOD!
To see a few more pictures, click on "Let's Eat!"
Sunday, May 08, 2005
FCC Blessing Ceremony
On May 8, 2005, First Congregational Church hosted their second annual LGBT Blessing Ceremony. This is an open and affirming church that walks the walk. Six religious leaders from a variety of faiths came together to offer their blessings on gay men and lesbians and their families.
The choir sang, the church's jazz quintet played and sang. The happy couples each spoke a little about themselves and introduced their families. They have been together for two years, or thirteen years, or twenty-two years. Some have children, some have dogs and cats. All of them were in love, and were deeply touched by the event. These families stood together before God and their community, and their love was joyously celebrated.
You never know how much you hunger for something until it is offered to you.
It was a wonderful afternoon, filled with love and support, followed by a great party!
For more pictures, click on the captian below the photo of Tom and Larry.
The choir sang, the church's jazz quintet played and sang. The happy couples each spoke a little about themselves and introduced their families. They have been together for two years, or thirteen years, or twenty-two years. Some have children, some have dogs and cats. All of them were in love, and were deeply touched by the event. These families stood together before God and their community, and their love was joyously celebrated.
You never know how much you hunger for something until it is offered to you.
It was a wonderful afternoon, filled with love and support, followed by a great party!
For more pictures, click on the captian below the photo of Tom and Larry.
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Radio
I listen to a lot of radio, most of it National Public Radio, Public Radio International, or BBC. I get most of my news from NPR, hardly ever having time to watch the news on TV.
The thing that amazes me is that radio is so much more interesting than TV. The other night, I was listening to a show on influences. I came into the middle of a series where they talked to a professor who had influenced someone, and then they interviewed a student who had influenced the professor. Next they will interview someone who had influenced the student. A whole series of people who had influenced each other. What a great idea, and how interesting it was to hear them talk about each other.
I guess I could have watched someone eating worms on TV, but this was so interesting! I love radio.
The thing that amazes me is that radio is so much more interesting than TV. The other night, I was listening to a show on influences. I came into the middle of a series where they talked to a professor who had influenced someone, and then they interviewed a student who had influenced the professor. Next they will interview someone who had influenced the student. A whole series of people who had influenced each other. What a great idea, and how interesting it was to hear them talk about each other.
I guess I could have watched someone eating worms on TV, but this was so interesting! I love radio.
Saturday, April 09, 2005
Tully
This is Tully, who belongs to Gregg and Bruce. He is at Tahoe playing in the snow. He is really full of energy and he gives really great slobbery kisses! Don't you love that one tooth sticking out?
Puppy Odalisque
This is our friends Toni and Scott's new puppy. She's about 10 weeks old now, and full of energy. She's a Cardigan corgi, and a real rascal! This is one of her few moments of repose.
I have suggested that they name her Odalisque, because she is such a flirt!
I have suggested that they name her Odalisque, because she is such a flirt!
Saturday, March 26, 2005
The Joys of Bureaucracy
One of the (many) joys of working in the bureaucracy is that sometimes our efforts to communicate are overwhelmed by our need to describe what is truly ineffable.
For example, consider this statement from a nearby Purchasing Department:
"The focus of the Division is now on strategic procurement rather than the tactical processing of paperwork."
I must admit that in all my 25 years as a bureaucrat, I have never actually considered the tactical processing of paperwork.
Clearly a failure of imagination on my part.
For example, consider this statement from a nearby Purchasing Department:
"The focus of the Division is now on strategic procurement rather than the tactical processing of paperwork."
I must admit that in all my 25 years as a bureaucrat, I have never actually considered the tactical processing of paperwork.
Clearly a failure of imagination on my part.
Saturday, March 19, 2005
Long Time Friends
Jane has been our friend for many years. She saw a sweater Gail knitted for a three year old friend of ours and wanted one just like it. She came by today to pick it up, and was delighted with it. Many smiles and much laughter!
Saturday, March 05, 2005
Gimme a kiss
I love dogs. I love them all. Here are some dogs I've come across in the last few years. Some were at a Rare Breed Dog Show. Others are part of my life.
Saturday, February 26, 2005
We are family!
Celebrating 23 years together, and our one year anniversary of being married!
Click "We are Family" under the photo to see the rest of our pictures from that day!
Click "We are Family" under the photo to see the rest of our pictures from that day!
San Francisco Anniversary
On February 12, 2005, over 4,000 couples were invited to the San Francisco City Hall to celebrate their marriages, performed there the previous year in defiance of state and federal laws. Although the courts declared them invalid, thousands of loving couples, some with their children on their shoulders, filled the Hall with shouts of joy and determination.
Couples filled every available space, up to the highest balcony, waiting patiently for Mayor Gavin Newsome to appear. When he finally arrived, the crowd erupted in a joyous cry of thanks to the man who made it happen. He gave a rousing, empassioned speech, and then invited Phyllis Lyons and Del Martin up on stage, again to thunderous applause. Afterwards, Newsome moved into the crowd, shaking hands, signing autographs, and posing for pictures.
We had many friends there, and we felt united with strangers and friends alike.
Gail and I are holding on to our marriage license, because it is real for us. It is just a matter of time until this country, this beloved country, once again takes a lurching, wrenching step into a new era of equality. I believe with all my heart that the day will come when the courts will declare that Gail and I have the same rights to marry each other that my brothers and sister have to marry the people they love. It is very simple, really. We are good people, we pay taxes, we go to church, we own property together, we care for each other, and we deserve the protections of marriage. We're waiting....
Couples filled every available space, up to the highest balcony, waiting patiently for Mayor Gavin Newsome to appear. When he finally arrived, the crowd erupted in a joyous cry of thanks to the man who made it happen. He gave a rousing, empassioned speech, and then invited Phyllis Lyons and Del Martin up on stage, again to thunderous applause. Afterwards, Newsome moved into the crowd, shaking hands, signing autographs, and posing for pictures.
We had many friends there, and we felt united with strangers and friends alike.
Gail and I are holding on to our marriage license, because it is real for us. It is just a matter of time until this country, this beloved country, once again takes a lurching, wrenching step into a new era of equality. I believe with all my heart that the day will come when the courts will declare that Gail and I have the same rights to marry each other that my brothers and sister have to marry the people they love. It is very simple, really. We are good people, we pay taxes, we go to church, we own property together, we care for each other, and we deserve the protections of marriage. We're waiting....
Sunday, February 20, 2005
Las Quatro Amigas
The Four Amigas headed to Ensenada for three very short days filled with fun.
My sister was upset when she found out we went to Mexico without letting her know ahead of time. I don't understand what would worry her. We ate tamales from a street vendor, went through a couple of checkpoints manned by heavily armed 17 year olds, went off-roading on a deserted caliche road outside of town, tried unsuccessfully to find a place to go wine tasting, purchased retin A and vioxx without prescriptions, wandered around a large deserted stone circular building that looked like it was invented for Myst, and generally had a good time.
What could possibly have gone wrong?
If you click on the tag under the picture, you'll be able to view the rest of the pictures.
My sister was upset when she found out we went to Mexico without letting her know ahead of time. I don't understand what would worry her. We ate tamales from a street vendor, went through a couple of checkpoints manned by heavily armed 17 year olds, went off-roading on a deserted caliche road outside of town, tried unsuccessfully to find a place to go wine tasting, purchased retin A and vioxx without prescriptions, wandered around a large deserted stone circular building that looked like it was invented for Myst, and generally had a good time.
What could possibly have gone wrong?
If you click on the tag under the picture, you'll be able to view the rest of the pictures.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)