Scott Living in the UAE

Colombo Trip, Sri Lanka

2012-01-18T02:27:00.000-08:00

Joseph looking out the window on the way to Colombo. Several things of note are just how close the train tracks run beside the ocean and the clean clothes lying out on the ground to dry (shades of India). The scenery was beautiful and we all enjoyed the ride up to the Capital City of the Country.

The train station. It is about a 2 hour train ride to Colombo if you do not take the express train. We opted to stop at all the stations to get a feel for the area. On the return trip we had to twice get off the train and wait for a different train to pick us up and take us further on down the line, this seems very odd to all of us. The airport and train stations are infamous for "touts" a.k.a. scam artists.

Christine right outside the central train station in Colombo. Things to note here are the corrigated metal roofs on shops lining the streets, these shops sold everything from clothes to sunglasses, phones to jewelry. We were all impressed with how clean Colombo was and compared to India, even the high-traffic areas were quite clean. There is also a woman in a sari right behind Christine, most women seemed to wear full-length cotton skirts, so the sari was notable.

Just past the train station is this monstrosity that begs to be titled "Who Ya Gonna Call? Ghostbusters!" Actually it is a monument to the Sri Lankan telecommunications systems; we all found it rather weird.

We walked from the train station to the Old Fort area (yes, old fort area in both Colombo and Galle). This photo shows the landmark old lighthouse which has been changed over to a clock tower. An "off limits" harbors is just behind the clock tower. The presidential palace was to the right past the clock tower and security was very much in evidence. This old part of the town has mostly colonial-era structures, many are in good shape and others are being renovated/restored.

Katherine was so excited to go to The Pagoda restaurant because the Duran Duran "Hungry Like The Wolf" video was filmed here in the 1980's. This is one of the oldest eating establishments in the Fort area. However, it was also undergoing a massive renovation and only available for drinks and pasteries. We were all disappointed, so the women went shopping at Lanka Hands, a multi-level store selling local crafts (including Sinhalese masks, batik and lacework, basketry and way more). Christine filled her backpack full!!!

Cargills Ltd, a once-grand Department Store built to supply imported luxury to British Planters and Colonial Administrators, was established in 1844. The building still features gorgeous glass, mahogany cabinets and lots of brass; it is a living mercantile museum.

This photo shows the still beautiful red-brick victorian Cargills Emporium. The company still has a major retail influence on the nation, in 1993 Cargills began a supermarket chain. We even shopped at the one in Wadduwa; it wasn't huge, but it was clean and air conditioned.

Scott simply had to have a picture of this! I was trying to figure out how to make a "B" with my arms to do the YMBA dance.

Beautiful Hindu Temple - bright colors are quite popular in Sri Lanka.

View from the passenger seat of a tuk-tuk. Please note how the driver is actually over the center line - very common driving practice, cause it is all about passing the guy in front of you. We took the tuk-tuks across town to another restaurant Katherine recommended.

This victorian house is the Paradise Road Gallery Cafe. We had an excellent lunch at the 2nd floor cafe. The first floor and much of the second were all retail; amazing array of housewares, home accessories and lovely gifts. Scott and I both shopped while we waited for our lunch, but as we are on the 5-Year Plan, what we bought were gifts. So much of the store reminded me of Ozzie's - great merchandise, fair prices and good customer service. As we were flying home, the terra cotta garden pieces were for looking only.

This is a sacred Bodhi Tree, we saw them all over the country and like this one, right in the middle of the road! Cow also roam freely, but we saw very few of them in Colombo.

This white-domed building is known as "Old Town Hall", but the locals call it "The White House"

Just across the street is Colombo's largest park, Viharamahadevi Park (say that 5 times fast!). It was originally called Victoria Park, but like many places and streets, was renamed in the 1950's. Working elephants sometimes spend the night in the park eating palm branches - bet the gardeners love to clean up the mess?

These are Indian Flying Fox. The are the largest of three types of fruit-eating bats in Sri Lanka

Groups of roosting bats, numbering in the the hundreds, will take over the large trees in this park. They decamp after sunset. A gardener in the park led Scott and I to the roosting bats. He took a huge fallen tree branch and wacked at the ground until the bats flew up in a flurry. Their wing span is 1.3 meters (4.2 feet) and they made an awful screeching sound, yikes! Imagine that flying over your head?

See all the bats still hanging in the trees? They were amazing and we watched them two different times - even the local population was enthralled (and probably glad that the bats eat only fruit). After the gardener got the bats to fly up several times, he looked at us and put out his hand. Scott gave him some Sri Lanka Rupees and he looked at Scott and said "I need more, I want American money". Scott prompted pulled the note out of the man's hand and said "this is all I've got, you want it or not?"

The park is extremely large, with lots of play areas. Scott noticed this bridge over a small lake in need of repair. We were surprised at how many things needed work, but Sri Lanka's economy is in the same straits as most countries.

We saw this Boy Scout monument to the Golden Jubilee (1912-1962)of the Ceylon Boy Scout Movement. We both smiled and felt it rated a photo.

It was a long, long day and the little guys passed out on the couch, we let sleeping children alone!

The Sri Lankan who took care of us for a week. Miss Pushba was out cook and Mr. Thulak took care of our house and several others in the compound. They made out holiday restful and relaxing.

Sri Lanka was a lovely trip for us, a place that we probably never would have visited if not already living over overseas.

Hope this little slice of a our travels was enjoyable. Stay safe and warm,

Scott and Christine

Galle Trip, Sri Lanka

2012-01-17T01:10:00.001-08:00

Galle is at least a 2 hour drive south of Wadduwa. Our tour guide offered many side trips, this kept the adults interested and our youngsters got to move about. A tall and elaborately carved staircase to a Buddist Temple. Note the raised circular area at the base, also carved - elephants a plenty. Christine was asked to wrap her sarong around her waist, as neither knees or shoulders can be uncovered (just like when entering a Mosque!)

Elephant carved into the side of the staircase.

Top of the staircase looking back downward, note the carved stone entryway. Van at the bottom was out transportation.

This huge Budda actually sits atop of the temple. To gain entrance, you must walk around the sides.

Christine and Katherine walking down one of the many staircases inside the multi leveled temple. Very colorful reliefs depicting the stages of Budda's life (i.e. enlightenment) cover almost every square inch. Our guide was Buddist and he spent a lot of time explaining the religion to all of us.

This relief was painted after the 26 December 2004 Tsunami, close study shows people climbing the hill to reach safety at the temple.

Always an opportunity to make money: the industrious Sri Lankans have this placid elephant outside the temple. Tourists pay a small amount and children walk under the elephant three times, it is supposed to bring good luck. The boys are touching the skin at the urging of the keepers. Note the sarong-like wrap on the Sri Lankan on the left - this is national dress for men.

Our guide, Mr. LaLa, explains varies components of this memorial to the Tsunami victims that were trapped on the train and perished. The coastline is just beyond the palm trees.

Close up of the memorial - note the railway cars. The train was full to capacity with 15,000 people traveling to celebrate both Buddist Full Moon and Christmas. When the first wave hit, the local population (of about 2,000) climbed into the carriages and on top of the roof. People were jammed tightly inside. When the second wave of 18 feet hit, people inside could not move to swim and the possibility of survival was extremely low.

This beautiful Budda, standing in the middle of a peaceful lake, was a gift to the people of Sri Lanka from a sister city in Japan. While driving along the main road (there is ONLY one road), we saw thousands of buildings never repaired. People are still waiting for release of the money contributed from all over the world. Government moves as slowly in Sri Lanka as it does elsewhere in the world...

Galle (pronunced Gaul) was occupied by the Dutch (among many others).

Christine, Katherine and Joseph outside the Dutch Reformed Church in Old Galle. There are memorial plaques (similar to the ones against the church base) all around the perimiter of this walled property.

Inside of the Dutch Reformed Church - still in use and still lovely. Beneath the entire floor are burial vaults with the information as to who occupies each vault. Besides the names and typical information, inscriptions offer occupations, time length in Galle, number of children and spouses. The vaults on the floor are all Dutch, but the ones around the sides are all English - yes, even the Dutch Reformed Church was occupied by the British!

Our group in front of the Lighthouse at the "Old Fort" - The fortress covered a vast area and encompassed the much of the town.

View off to the right from the walking path (atop the fortified granite walls of the fortress). This shows the old town of narrow streets and white-washed, red tile roofed homes. We were impressed with how clean this city was, NO litter anywhere.

Walking further down the pathway, we passed another colonial era church and approached...

a lovely granite jetty. Just the place to snap a photo of the Atsma family.

We moved to another are of the original Old Fort. As we were walking up a ramp, we passed a "snaker charmer" with his cobra in the basket and a constrictor coiled beside him on the pavement. Sri Lankans are opportunists where tourists are concerned: this gentleman played his flute and got the cobra to "dance". He also...

places the snake on obliging tourists. Both Joseph and William seemed to enjoy the experience.

We came out here at the top of the ramp - another entirely different section of the fortress, with an inner harbor just past the far side. That is a huge raindrop in center of the picture - yes, the rains had come.

Hendrik, who took the vast majority of these pictures, has spun 180 degrees and now the open seas are in the background.

Stopped at this seafood restaurant our guide recommended. We have come back up the coast 14 km to Hikkaduwa, this area was the first of the first beautiful beaches to be discovered by the tourists in the 1960's. It became a haven for "hippies" we are told. The area has expanded to a 4KM strip of hotels, shops, bars, restaurants & guesthouses all lining either side of the 2-lane road. Hikkaduwa is best known for excellent snorkeling & diving - colorful fish & corals, turtles and several documented shipwrecks to explore. We explored lunch!

Scott finally enjoying his soup. We ordered and our waiter disappeared for more than 45 minutes.

Thankfully the open beach was just over Hendrik's shoulder. A woman walked up the beach selling textiles. She came over to our table and was rewarded by sales from both of our ladies. Hey, we had to do something while we waited!

Stopped at a "gem" mine on our way back up the coast. This fellow was really working hard.

You can see another fellow down at the bottom of the mine.

Scott and one of the workers seem to be enjoying themselves.

Katherine and Joseph were checking out the raw gems.

A worker cutting and polished green quartz. He was making a lovely necklace all with these simple tools. We moved on the the sales room where Scott was soon parted from some of his money - the snake charmer was much cheaper.

Sri Lanka is famous for ceremonial masks. These were in a museum further along on the way. We also stopped at an herbal farm, but that story is so long, so complicated and so hilarious that will only tell it in person. We went home and jumped into the pool then relaxed until dinner.

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Galle is at the SW tip of Sri Lanka and is the capital city of the southern province. The city has a population of 100,000 and is contected to the rest of the country by rail and by roads laid out by the British. Traveling was time consuming and the drivers were daredevils. It seemed that we were playing "chicken" an awful lot of the time.

The city was devastated by the massive 26 December (Boxing Day) 2004 tsunami. Thousands were killed in the city and surrounding areas. More than 40,000 were estimated dead in the entire country and 2.5 million people were displaced. The 6 meter waves swept 5 K inland, made more deadly because most of Sri Lanka is flat.

Galle was a prominent seaport long before Western rule. Persians, Arabs, Greek, Malays, Indians and Chinese have been doing business at Galle port for centuries. A 1411 stone tablet commerating the visit of Chinese admiral Zheng He is written in 3 languages - Chinese, Persian and Tamil (remember the Tamil Tigers from northern part of the island?)

The Portugese arrived in Sri Lanka in 1505, followed by the Dutch in 1640. The Dutch East Indian Company is responsible for construction of the fortress. British rule began in 1796 and they used the fort, largely unchanged, as an asministrative center

It is the best example of fortified city built by Europeans in SE Asia. The Galle fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers. The fortified walls were constructed of solid granite and has three bastions. It was quite impressive.

Hope you've enjoyed the pictures and descriptions,

Christine and Scott

Sri Lanka, December 2011

2012-01-07T00:59:00.000-08:00

The courtyard/entrance to the 4-villa compound; this 3-bedroom villa was ours for a week in mid-December.

Our side of the villa with open porches around the pool/sea side. Breakfast must be ready as most of us are at the table and waiting!

Joseph, William & Hendrik Atsma with Christine are already at the table. The atmosphere was casual, Christine ate many meals with just a sarong over her swimsuit.

View from the lounging area of the veranda. Swimming pool with beach just beyond. There had been a cyclone recently which wash away a large amount of our beach. We would walk down the shore line to a bar, find some lounge chairs and have a few Lion beers while we watched the boys play in the surf.

We had just arrived and were all exhausted. Breakfast was being prepared (note cornflakes on the table).

Typical dinner: seafood or chicken curry over rice, salads and lots and lots of fruit. Luckily both Joseph and William are fabulous eaters and we all enjoyed the meals. We had a female cook and a male house host. They were at our disposal from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM and met our every need. It was wonderful.

River Cruise: Scott, Joseph, Christine, Guide, Katherine and William. Hendrik took many of these photos and shared so our blog looks good. He is a better photographer and has a great camera. Kudos to him for his skill and generosity!

Scott with the crocodile

This is a Blue-Tailed Bee Eater, we also sighted Cormorant & Grey-Headed Fish Eagle while on the river.

White & Cattle Egrets were in evidence throughout the island. Like India, cows roam freedly in Sri Lanka and were there were cows (everywhere) there were Cattle Egrets (everywhere, too!)

Hendrik got a great shot of this lizard, there is a startling variety of reptiles on this island.

Crocodile at the edge of the mangrove.

William and Joseph on the bow of the boat, tour was almost over and the guide urged the boys to the bow as we sped toward homebase.

Christine with the crocodile on her shoulder, she is smiling cause she is nervous.

William the Brave, the crocodile is on his head!

Turtle farms, they rescue the turtle eggs, bring them to the farm and take care they hatch before releasing them back into the water. There are three different type of turtles here, all just 1 day old. (loggerhead, greenback & leatherback)

Albino - quite rare and untouchable (trust me, I know, cause got my hand slapped when I tried.)

The area where the turtle eggs are buried and dated/marked for research purposes.

Katherine with a beautiful, large and heavy turtle. The guide who slapped my hand away is in the background.

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Sri Lanka is the teardrop shaped island nation off the southeastern coast of India. Known as Ceylon, it became independent of British colonial rule in 1948 and changed its name in 1972. Due to location, Sri Lanka is a link in the ancient Silk Route. It is also the center of the Buddist religion with Hindu, Christian and Muslims representing much of the balance. The vast majority of the citizens are of Sinhalese origins; the separatist Tamils are based primarily in the north and northeast (we were on the SW coast just south of Colombo). The major issues between the Gov't and Tamils erupted into violence in 1983, with 10's of thousands dying or leaving the country. A ceasefire was brokered by the Norwegians in 2002 with peaceful negotiations still in progress.

We took a night flight (sat on the tarmac an extra hour in Abu Dhabi), so there was a planeful of exhausted and irritated passengers. Landed in Colombo, met our driver and were on our way to Wadduwa in the early hours. The road system has not updated since the British left, so travel is "interesting" and progress is slow... Our house was lovely, open and airy and very safe! We spent the first few days just relaxing by our own pool (no one in residence in any of the other 3 houses our entire stay), walking down the beach, sitting on the veranda and eating the delicious meal prepared by Miss Pushba (our cook).

Our first venture out was a river cruise, lunch and visit to the turtle farm/sanctuary. This was a successful trip with all 6 of us enjoying ourselves. Hope you enjoyed our photos, with more to follow on our trips to Colombo and Galle.

Nicosia, Cyprus

2011-11-29T22:10:00.001-08:00

Nicosia, aka Lefkosia, is the capital of Cyprus. It lies toward the center of the island and has been the capital since the 11th Century AD. As we were staying on the southwest of the island, our trip involved a 3+ hour drive back toward Larnaca (airport) and then north into the hilly area that lies between the Troodos Mountains (east) and the Pentadaktylos Range (north along the coast). This building is unfortunately typical of what we encountered when we passed thru the check point from Cyprus to "The Turkish Republic of Cyprus". Very little new construction and many of the extremely old buildings of combination of stone, mud bricks and various types of wood - quite close together. Very, very old world feeling surrounded us the majority of our visit.

Efes, a Turkish brew was a new beer for us. Efes Pilsen gets its unique taste from rice added into the ingredients at brewing stage. The 5.0% ABV beer has been described to have a tangy malt and hops aroma, rich malt and a bitter-sweet finish that becomes dry and hoppy - Christine was pleased!

Early lunch at one of many sidewalk restaurants and cafes. Scott plotted our tour while Christine went inside to look at the wonderful selection. The service was exceptional and the price was amazingly good.

Buyuk (Great) Khan was build of yellow stone in 1576. A khan is an ancient hotel. The two-storied khan, has 68 rooms and 10 shops, was constructed on a square plan. The rooms downstairs were used as shops, storage rooms and stables. Upstairs were bedrooms feature fireplaces. There is a water tank with a fountain placed on columns at the center of the court and a prayer room. It is now used as a cafe, art gallery, and shops full of traditional folk art (lace, weaving, etc). The courtyard is huge and we noted many people having coffee and listening to traditional musicians.

Christine standing at one of the huge entrace doors to the Buyuk Khan. Note the prayer room in the center of the courtyard.

This is the remains of Himarcilar Khan (the khan for merchants using donkeys). The two-story building was also built on a square plan and according to official North Cyprus map, it has only 44 of its original 56 rooms remaining (like one could tell the difference). This khan is on a much smaller and less grand scale than the Buyuk Khan only a block south. It was built in the 18th century and has fallen into a dismal state of neglect. One of the sides looks slightly better; however, the full grown trees and rubish thrown into the site obscure much of its former style.

Buyuk Haman (Turkish Bath) is an authentic ottoman period structure. It is generally accepted that the bath was built partly with the material taken from the ruins of St. George de Poulains (reusing building materials is quite common in the Middle East). Scott is standing on the steps down into the Baths because the road level has been raised. The rooms of the baths remain at a lower level than the road and this building was in pristine condition - but then again it is a money maker! Scott had to posed beside the sign because of his friend Jerry Clark's famous opening line about the turkish baths.

The granite column in Ataturk Square is a tribute to Venetian rule in Cyprus. Originally it had a carved lion (St. Mark) and featured coats of arms of noble Venatian families, most of which are still discernable. The Ottmans removed the lion and toppled the column in 1570. Fortunately they left the column intact and it was re-erected by the British, who replaced the lost lion with a bronze orb. The Square today has small restaurants and cafes, where we noticed men playing backgammon and drinking coffee. The large building behind Christine was build by the British it is...

The British Colonial Law Courts. It was built in 1901 of yellow sandstone and is a city block square with the ever-present center courtyard. Notice the two flags flying: Turkish and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus - flow together all over this half of the capital. At the corner closest to the Venetian Column is a platform that carries the British Royal Coat of Arms, which was built in memory of the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. It was covered with plexiglass, how odd!

Built in 1845, the Arabahmet Pashe Mosque is an example of classical Ottoman architecture and named after one of the (many) conquerors of Cyprus Arap Ahmet Pasha. The mosque relects the style of the 16th century. The grounds were immaculate and an oasis of green in the fairly grey atmosphere on the Turkish side of the capital.

These vaults are so unique in style and intricate carving - all floral (no animal images are pemitted in Islam). We were interested in the columns at each end of the crypt, one end taller than the other and with writing in arabic.

A row of crypts again the outside wall of the mosque area. Some of the important ottoman pashas (a pasha governs a province) are buried in the graveyard of the mosque.

Walking thru the Arabamet Quarter we noted many buildings in a state of total disrepair. The first-story windows have been filled in with rocks, doors/windows and shutters lean again the walls and building materials are scattered about throughout the patchwork of the repairs that have been done. Unfortunately this was a typical site.

At the Dervis Pasha Mansion (built in the 19th century) we noticed this wall at back of the courtyard. The wall's construction was so interesting with stone/mortar at the base (yes that is the beginnings of the arched doorway to the right). The second level of materials seems to been mud brick covered with a layer of more mud and followed by another layer of mud and mixed medium bricks. This is the area where the kitchen, bathrooms and lavatories are located away from the main living ara.

Second floor men's majlis (meeting area) is the largest room in the Pasha Mansion; the mansion was repaired in 1988 with financial help from the Republic of turkey. Dervish Pasha was the editor of Zaman, the first Turkish newspaper in Cyprus, which is why his home was restored by the Department of Antiquities. The first floor was used as a store, with servant and service rooms being there and the second floor was living space for the family. Notice that only men are in this meeting room (Christine looks pained just being inside the doorway). Separate living spaces are also typical in Middle Eastern homes.

UN troops are still present in Nicosia - note the wite car with UN tags and UN signage on the door. Very odd!

Walked out of old-world atmosphere of Northern, Turkish-controlled Nicosia into a vibrant street mall atmosphere. Scott spotted the gyro vendor. We agreed that as neither of us may ever visit again, Scott needed to taste one. It was huge and Scott was not able to finish. Christine opted for a Keo on her way out of town.

Now for a bit of history on Nicosia. It is now Europe's only militarily divided city. One of the world's oldest cities, Nicosia was the center of an independent kingdom as early as the 7th century BC. It was under Byzantine rule in the early 4th century AD and passed to Guy of Lusignan (the Latin king of Jerusalem) in 1192. the Lusignan kings held Nicosia until it was captured in 1489 by the Venetians (remember the Venetian column). The city passed to the Ottoman Turks in 1571 and to the British in 1878. It was made capital of British-ruled Cyprus in 1925. Nicosia became the capital of independent Cyprus in 1960.

The city has been divided into Turkish and Greek Cypriot zones since the Turkish invasion in 1974. The Northern side of Cyprus (and Nicosia) is considered to be an occupied region whose claim of independent stateoood is recognized only by Turkey. Approximately 37% of Cypriot territory (including Northern Nicosia) is considered occupied area.

Of further note, all Cypriots call this city "Lefkosia" with only a slightly different spelling from North to South. Now, isn't that odd?

In closing, we would like to add that we decided to spend our time in Nicosia on the Northern Turkish-controlled side. We know that should we have the opportunity to visit Cyprus again, we have the unexplored eastern areas of the country & the cosmopolitan and bustling side of Nicosia for adventure. In some ways we both felt a bit like we did back in 1983 when we experienced a divided East/West Berlin... none of the apprehension, but the difference in living standards and conditions of the city were certainly apparent.

Cyprus In November

2011-11-19T01:10:00.000-08:00

View from the Troodos Mountains. Christine and the Simpsons took a 7K hike around Mt. Olympus one afternoon. We got a late start because all 5 hikers started down the wrong path and 2 hours later (this included a picnic lunch) we started down the real trail. It was a beautiful hike, scenic views and narrow paths along the rim. This photo shows a lovely almost-Alpine village we passed thru on our way up the mountain and the huge number of evergreens.

Christine placing an 8th glass atop the head of the Cypriot dancer. We had dinner here in May and knew the show, however, this time the glasses all fell and of course, Christine almost died of embarrasment. Four of our group had the delicious suckling pig - pork was on the menu every meal!

Scott on a back street of Limassol. Limassol in the largest port and an ancient city. This building had a placque with 1756 and the doorsteps are so high because the entire street bed had been removed for resurfacing. We wandered these maze-like back streets and viewed old mosques, marketplaces, the fortress (excellent museum) before our lunch with Simpsons and a walk along the corniche. Just outside Limassol is Kolossi Castle where the Crusaders made their quarters, fostering the making of the oldest named wine in the world, "Commandaria." Richard the Lionhearted in a documented visitor and was married here.

Encountered goat herders on one of our drives thru the hills. There were two herders & several dogs to manage this large group which crossed the road right in front of our car - so old world and so interesting to witness.

Scott enjoying a Carlsberg while we waited for our lunch on the last day. The weather had turned from brilliant blue skies and slight breezes to quite cloudy. This did not damper our spirits and we so enjoyed this little inner courtyard at a small hotel's restaurant. The waiter and the chef came out the talk with us and we were asked lots of questions about America.

We decided to try the Last Castle again (it was Christine's favorite meal in May). The castle is at the top of a dirt road up a steep hill. You have to have reservations and we couldn't find the correct number, so we drove up twice - once to book our table and once to enjoy our meal. Well worth the effort - the roast chicken and pork were exceptional. The winds were really gusting hill top and we had to eat with our jackets on, but the wine and foods warmed us. The wind was rustling the autumn fading leaves and swaying the clusters of grapes still clinging to the vines. It was the last day of the season for the restaurant, so the Simpsons had to miss this adventure in driving and dining, but we got them a business card. They can phone for reservations.

Christine, Emily Simpson, Lucy (Emily's school friend), Martin and Paula Simpson at lunch in the courtyard of The Kiniras Hotel-Restaurant. Many of the upstairs room opened on to this lovely space of about 12 tables, lovely potted plants & excellent service and good food.

Martin and Paula Simpson at a little cafe across from the Sea Caves. We had a drink and watched the sun set - lovely, just what you want to do on holiday.

The Sea Caves, Emily and Lucy walked all the way out and around the rim. It was so lovely and we were able to watch their silhouettes as they danced and played into the sun set.

Martin, Lucy, Paula and Emily at our picnic in the Troodos. Due to walking an hour in the wrong direction, we were starved and the troops revolted and refused to do the real trail until fed. Martin acquiesced and we enjoyed a simple picnic of meat, cheese, breads, eggs and wine before we began the 7K hike. Some of the trail was quite narrow (not great for a person with height issues) and rocky but the views were spectacular and worth the false start and chilled temps as we rounded the mountain and did the last 2K without benefits of the sun's warming rays. Scott wasn't feeling well and had taken a med that made him a tad sleepy. He stayed behind to nap, read his book and enjoy his I-pod in peace.

This is the sign that greeted us on way out of the airport - such simple sign, but such lovely places and people we were excited to explore. Our thoughts were to let the adventure begin!

Peyia outside of Paphos on the western side of the island. Peyia is built into the hillside and although this is gentle slope, it gets fairly steep as the roads wind their way up across the hill. Our villa was just up this street. Most of the houses are chalk white with a tile roof, but lots of greenery planted in every nook and cranny of the compact properties. There were fig and pomegrante trees outside out villa and the neighbor brought us grapefruit from her garden.

St. Paul's Pillars in Paphos. This site features a fairly small church (Catholic Church maintains it but it is used for services by all denominations. The entire area is quite large and is still be excavated. It has several buildings build on top of each other included a large mosque and a cathedral. There are pillars, mosaics, arches, tombs all over the site and you cannot walk among the ruins. Very interested as it is the official site of St. Paul's ministry in Cyprus.

Christine at Ayios Georgious (St. Georges). A pristine sunbathing and small marina just down the hill from...

Small Byzantine Catholic Church. We went in to explore and found the church beautifully maintained with lots of icons, flowers and woodwork.

Kykkos (Kykkou) Monastery

2011-06-08T21:58:00.000-07:00

Kykkos Monastery is the richest and most lavish of the monasteries of Cyprus. It sits near a mountain peak, at 1,318 meters in the northwest Troodos Mountains. The monastery was founded sometime at the end of the 11th century. The original monastery has burned, as have subsequent buildings. The icon of Theotokos (Virgin Mary) was a "gift" to the Cypriot hermit Isaiah who miraculous cured the daughter of emperor Alexios 1 Komnenos (1081-1118 AD). According to legend, Isaiah requested the icon and funds to pay for construction of a monastery fitting the honours of housing this sacred relic. The icon is not to be gazed up under penalty of blindness and is covered in elaborated draping. A very small portion of the icon is visible through the draping and is displayed in the "dripping with gold" sanctuary, where we encountered many making a pilgrimage. Photography is not permitted in the sanctuary, but it was AMAZING! Main entrance with beautiful and brillant mosaics.

View of the 3-Bells tower just up the hill.

View of courtyard just to our right, galleries line the walkways on both levels.

Closer view of the inner passageway, this leads to the sanctuary and the icon. Note the Cypriot flag flying by the bell tower.

Christine models the bright purple robes women & men (scott included) are required to wear, as neither knees nor shoulders are acceptable. Christine wore a full abaya and sheyla to gain entrance to The Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi (also out of respect for religious culture). It wasn't a big deal for either of us, just a bit uncomfortable in the heat.

Dream sequence mural on wall of upper gallery.

Other side of same doorway's mural features the icon of Virgin Mary being venerated.

Vaulted ceiling were also covered with elaborate murals featuring Bible stories. Scott thought the ship in full sail was pretty interesting, note one at other end of the corridor as well.

Stunning Mural of an Angel (?). All the writing throughout was in Greek, saved us time, but was often confused and educationally challenged.

Believe this is St. Luke, who was known to have visited Cyprus and been a major influence on Christianity's spread throughout the island.

Mosaic, perhaps a plague of locusts being let loose?

Noah's Arch Mosaic with rabbit & raven on rock.

This was one of Christine's favorites, the colors were stunning!

Burning Bush mosaic, note the small white cross on mountain top (left side.) These last four mosaics were side by side on a gallery walkway and are indicative of many, many more!

The monestary is in the Troodos Mountains. You can see the road snaking about half way down in this photo. Our drive was 1 1/2 hours of twisting and narrow mountain roads up and back down the mountain. It was exhausting for Scott navigating a left-hand manual transmission and driving on the wrong side of the road all the way up, not to mention Christine's gasps of fright at sheer drop offs, hair-pin turns and on-coming traffic. While visiting several shops after our tour, Scott noticed cold Keo Beer for sale. We shared one and it was so calming and refreshing, that Scott purchased another to share on the way back down. The 1 1/2 hour drive back down, when this photo was taken, was much, much easier on both our nerves. Normally I'm not much on mixing beer and driving, but we got down the mountain and were still talking to each other!

Credit for our making the effort to experience Kykkos Monastery must be given to Christine's previous boss Linda Jackson at Ozzie, Ltd in Corydon. She often spoke of this fabulous site and Keo beer. Thank you Linda; here's to you. Cheers!

Love to you all,

Christine and Scott

Kathikas Village, Cyprus

2011-06-06T00:56:00.001-07:00

Kathikas Village, just a 6K drive further up the hill from Peyia, is exactly how I pictured Cyprus. Please join me to tour a typical hill town, thousands of which dot the countryside in Cyprus. Driving into Kathikas you first notice how narrow and winding are the streets. Stone buildings, tavernas, grocery stores and homes line the streets. Note the plastic food totes, all bottled beverages come in glass or plastic & a deposit are required. Red terracotta blocks stacked in front of the building are typical building material throughout the island; did they run out of stones? Doubt it!

These are huge hot pink geraniums growing over a courtyard wall. Olive trees and Oleander bushes bloom alongside for color and privacy. A feast for the eyes!

The welcome center is the original 1-room school house. Inside was beautifully cool; it featured displays of agricultural products, maps, flora and fauna of the region and chairs for resting. Big round item is a terracotta pot; we saw these all over the island. At one point they may have held water (or wine), but now seem purely decorative.

OOPS In the visitor's courtyard are these two stone busts, one a Cypriot statesman and the other appeared military. (The writing was all in Greek) They sit at the edge of a large stone square and with the Greek Orthodox church on the other side, appear to anchor the village's gathering area.

The best tended garden ever seen, immaculate. The figure by the doorway was a wonderfully dressed scarecrow. The silvery patina on the weathered wood, the aged stone structure, the chicken coop on the left and not a weed in sight - what a delightful find!

Scott was intrigued by this aged-metal lock on a garage door. It seemed purely old world.

So appreciated the old structures gracing the streets with the dignity of dowager aunts. Imagine these large doors and windows thrown open to capture the cool sea breezes.

Geraniums, growing along side a whitewashed wall, are taller than Christine (well, that isn't too difficult). The large aloe growing in upper courtyard, the scroll-work metal fence and the utilitarian water pipe and faucet certainly caught Scott's eye.

Delightful entrance to a private courtyard just across the stree from the vegtable garden. A typical blue door, offset with hanging baskets, terracotta pots and the wooden tough all filled with blooming flowers was just too pretty to pass unappreciated. We wondered about the fenced roof and the up-side-down horseshoe on the lintel.

Oops, must have really like this photo!

Being up in the hills, the climate is ideal for wine growing. We noticed numerous homes with grape arbors, but this was the only 2-story affair. Again, we observed the walled, private courtyard that was entered thru double doors. Thick, trellised vines (see well-pruned example by the door) and plantings of olive trees offer shade, as well as, bountiful harvest.

With all that walking, we worked up an appetite. We heard of Imogen's Inn Taverna from a Scottish couple at The Last Castle (Christine's favorite meal). Imogen's features about 15 shaded outside tables and a large, delightfully dark and cool rustic inner room. Shared a Keo beer (our last of the trip) while enjoying the wait for our entrees. Lunch of stuffed cabbage leaves, spinach pie and eggplant/lamb mousaka was excellent. Yes, that is three entrees, but we were running out of time and wanted to try everything that looked good on the menu.

Just after lunch we walked down the street and turned the corner to this lovely little side street. Of course Christine had to see if there were anymore hidden treasures in this lovely little village.

There was, at the back of the building, a bonus of more carefully tended pots: cactus & succulents, geraniums, oleaners, herbs. Brilliant, simply brilliant...

Kathikas Village was exactly what I'd pictured a Cypriot village to resemble: small and closely set rock buildings, vine-covered courtyards, pots large and small overflowing with flowers in a riot of colors and blue doors/windows. Exploring this village on foot, we were rewarded with glimpses of daily life. Turning a corner on a back street we found an old woman (dressed all in black) sitting in the shade shelling peas. Our efforts brought well-tended gardens & lovely little homes, simple but pristine. Another vegtable garden was border with huge plants we'd never seen - artichokes! We heard two women (again all in black) chatting in a courtyard, who paused congenially to greet us as we passed. Olive trees, as well as, lime, lemon and oranges trees spilling their colorful bounty over the high walls were another bonus. It was a splendid 3 hours spent wandering about an absolutely delight-fill village.

One last photo, this of a curved doorway on a flatiron building. It's well weathered and peeling Mediterranean blue paint offers a glimpse, in a doorway, to Cyprus' turbulent and romantic past!

Love to All,

Scott and Christine

Cyprus, Paphos Mosaics

2011-06-01T19:18:00.000-07:00

Scott is actually standing on mosaics! The mosaics are the floors of homes and government buildings in a huge archelogical site. Much of the outside area is roped off, but there a few places were it is still possible to "stand" in history.

A mosaic that sits magnificently among the site workings. Take note of the single standing column, the excavated walls, typical sea-side arid landscape and the beautiful azure blue Mediterranean Sea. This mosaic is perfectly round and is all geometrics. When we turned around there was a gorgeous green-on-green monocromatic mosaic. Many of the rooms and porticos at the central court are covered with mosaic floors with geometric motifs.

Perhaps Christine's favorite mosaic: "Theseus killing the Minotaur", hence the surrounding design is a labyrinth. This mosaic is part of an enormous villa of Theseus consisting of almost 100 large and small rooms, the building was the residence of the governor of Cyprus. The Roman commanders used to decorate the floors of their villas with mosaic, dating from the third to fifth century AD. The center scene: The hero Theseus is in combat with the Minotaur, half man/half bull. Ariadne, daughter of the King of Minos and admirer of Theseus look on from a safe height (smart woman!) Can you see the labyrinth? Paphos mosaics were made of small cubes of colorful marbles and stones, called tesserae, with glass paste added to widen the range of color.

House of Aion, named after the god seen in one of five mosaics, was discovered in 1983. This is part of 5 large and separate mosaics. It depicts a seated Apollo (with halo) resting upon his lyre and holding a branch. Unfortunately, large areas are missing from all 5 scenes, but now are protected by a structure and walkways for visitors.

Christine at the House of Theseus, possibly standing in the entrance to a home owned two thousand years ago by member of the ruling Roman class or a wealthy citizen. She readily admits she would probably have been a slave scrubbing the mosaics and sweeping the floors!

In this mosaic's center are three lovely women, surrounded by an wide deep burgandy and ivory border and a simple outer area. This is also in the outside area of House of Theseus. Again one can gaze out over Roman ruins and enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.

Long mosaic in The House of Dionysos features exotic animals often in hunting scenes

Pyramos and Thisbe Roman mosaic 3rd/4th century A.D. This mosaic depicts the story first made popular by Ovid and later by Shakespeare (Midsummer Night's Dream). Pyramos the handsome and Thisbe the beautiful communicated secretly through a crack in the wall. Later Thisbe is frightened by a lioness, which trampled and tore the veil she left when fleeing. Pyramos finds the the bloodstained veil, believes Thisbe dead and runs himself thru with his sword. Ahh, Greek tragedy!

The peacock is small (about 3 Feet square) but the centerpiece of a room at House of Dionysos. It was interesting to see natural subjects interspersed with mythology and geometrics.

This large Roman mosaic resembled a quilt. Christine found it fascinating as she recalls time and energy required to get a quilt exactly "perfect". This must have taken years to complete. Note the numbers at top of the photo: All of the mosaics were numbered and identified for the visitors - wish we had taken better notes.

In the House of Dionysos is this spendid mosaic, here we see two of three illustrations. Left: Dionysos is seated offering grapes to the nymph Akme, who is drinking wine from a bowl. (Not a bad idea!) Icarios made Dionysos welcome when he visited Athens and in return the god showed him how to cultivate wine. Icarios leads an ox-cart with wine-filled animal skins.

Five different depictions of the four Seasons with sad, but youthful face in the middle. The bearded man at lower left is winter's illustration. The pattern runs from Spring in upper left clockwise to Summer and Autumn at lower right. The other panels show rural scenes. Scott was fascinated by the 3-D effect of the narrow, but certainly eye-catching border.

Another intricate geometric with several different patterns in complimenting colors.

The Paphos Odeon is built entirely of limestone. It was severely damanged in an earthquake in the 7th century, but has now been partially restored. At the left are the ruins of the Agora, built in the second century and used as a marketplace & hospital, the hub of trade and commerce. Straight across are the scattered remains of the Acropolis.

Hi All,

The Mosaics of Paphos date from the days of Roman rule of Cyprus, these stunning mosaics were only discovered and excavated in 1962 and are some of the best preserved and most beautiful Roman mosaics discovered to date. Aside from their beauty (our photographs do NOT do them justice), as witness to history their claim is indisputable. These are the mosaics that St. Paul walked across after he "turned the other cheek. He had been public flogging by the Romans.

The houses are situated in the Paphos Archeological area and given names according to the main themes of their mosaic scenes. (Dionysus, Orpheus, Aion and Theseus) Excavations have revealed the spectacular 3rd & 5th centrury mosaics but many sites are still being unearthed.

The most intact area, The House of Dionysos has superb examples scenes from Greek mythology and was accidentlly discovered by a farmer ploughing his field! 5,985 square feet (556 square meters) of floor space 14 rooms are covered with gorgeous mosaics. This area is completed enclosed and protected from the elements, which meant we were also protected from the sun. We lingered and discussed, calling each other to point out a special border or scene, while 6ft up on walkways covering the original stone foundations. This was a roman private residence of over 40 rooms.

The Odeon Theatre is still used as it was in ancient times for outdoor concerts, plays and games. Also at the site are an early Christian basilica and a retired lighthouse. The basilica was built in the 5th century, but destroyed during the 7th century Arab raids. The entire town of Paphos is included in the official UNESCO list of cultural and natural treasure of world heritage.

The most impressive and reflective time of our holiday was the three hours we spent exploring this marvelous area. Hope you have enjoyed the read (always knew my Humanities major at university would be of value).

Love to you all,

Christine and Scott

Cyprus

2011-05-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

Peyia and Paphos, CyprusThe beautiful Mediterranean Sea from our condo in Peyia (Paphos Region) of Cyprus. We enjoyed our morning coffee and toast, afternoon rests and evening cocktails from this perch.

Christine in the cave cellar of Sterna Winery. There are many niches about 3 bottles deep that are maintained yearly at constant natural temperature of 59-60 degrees. Vineyards line the terraced hillsides and roads throughout The Akamas Peninsula on western Cyprus. Here we shared our tour and tasting with a retired British gentleman and his German Wife, no surprise as the island is about 40-60 expats from the United Kingdom.

Tomb of the Kings (actually a cemetary for wealthy citizens) just outside city of Paphos. These rock-cut tombs form an impressive Necropolis with caves, chambers, rock formations and tombs. The tombs, with doric-style columns and chambers cut in the rock below ground level, were used as a burial ground in the Hellenistic and Roman period. We spent several hours exploring this large Unesco World Cultural Heritage site.

Scott enjoying suckling pig at the Savvas Grill in Peyia. Driving by one day, Scott noticed a hand-lettered sign board advertising suckling pig and ran in to make reservations. We were not about to miss any opportunity to enjoy pork. This meat was delicious and the crackling was so sweet, almost like candy. We ate here the following evening because the other food looked so wonderful. That evening was Dolmedes (stuffed grape leaves) made by the owner's mother-in-law, Beef Stifado (diced beef stewed with onion, herbs and tomatoes) and Grilled Sheftalia (minced pork, onions, parsley wrapped in thin pork skins). Yes, we ate our way thru Western Cyprus!

This is a switchback in pine-scented Troodos Mountains. Look at upper right and you can see a hole in the rocks. Our drive took us 1 1/2 hours up into the mountains and involved many hair-pin turns on 1-lane road overlooking sheer drops and white knuckles on Christine's part. The drive down was equally beautiful with fabulous vistas, but the Keo Beers we shared certainly helped to calm the nerves. (For those of you familiar with Sewickley, PA... imagine about 60 miles of Blackburn Road!). To add to the stress was Scott driving a manual transmission on left side of the road; it was an adventure.

Enjoying our lunch of typical Cypriot Mezza: crusty bread, salad, hummos, taziki, roasted potatoes, and roasted chicken and lamb. Open-air dining is quite common with this restaurant offering a gorgeous vista of the Mediterranean. Tables are quite close and we talked with fellow diners on several occasions. Lovely conversations with visitors from Wales, Scotland, England, Germany and we heard an awful lot of Russian, too.

"We made it" to the Last Castle, another outside restaurant (note the grill on right side of pic). This restaurant is only open for lunch because... it involves driving on non-lit or guardrailed, heavily potholed dirt roads and up a goat-path type hill climb. A the top of this plateau were vineyards and banana fields surrounding the establishment. Lunch was fabulous of typical salad & starters but the most delicious roast beef and chicken. Our wine arrived in an earthen ware jug and once again that spectacular sea view.

Paphos is where Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, is said to have risen from the waves that crash on its shores. Petra tou Romiou, or Aphrodite's Rock, is a massive chunk of stone that marks the spot. Scott swam out around the large rock, thru the gap and around the smaller rock. This swim was on his bucket list and although he swam many times in the sea, this was special! We also took a drive to Aphrodite's Bath. According to the myth, this is where Aphrodite took her beauty baths in a pool of a natural grotto shaded by a huge fig tree. In ancient times people believed that swimming in the waters would aid their fertility, we passed on the swim.

Entrance to the Kykkos Monastery in The Troodos Mountains. Christine's former boss Linda told us this was a "must see" and she was correct. The sprawling stone compound featured beautiful jewel-tone mosaics and murals and reflective inner courtyards. The wood carved sanctuary was literally dripping with gold and of course, no pictures were permitted. There were pilgrims lined up with candles waiting their opportunity to touch/kiss a portion of a large, drape-covered icon. A sizeable, display-case lined relic room was adjacent. Rows and rows of various gold boxes contained relics of saints. The writing was local, so Christine could not spend hours reading each card, much to Scott's relief! "It's all Greek to me" was a popular comment throughout the week.

The mural shows homage to the special icon in the Sanctuary. The murals and mosaics were huge and gorgeous. Note the purple on Christine. All visitors must have their arms and knees covered, so these purple bathroom-type garments were issued at the entrance. Christine is smiling because she isn't thinking about the drive back down the mountain...
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Hi All,

Cyprus, what a beautiful Mediterranean Island and not a location that many Americans have the chance to visit. Our British friends Paula and Martin Simpson (see Jan 1, 2011 blog for background) had just taken possession of their condo, when we discovered that they were accepting renters. Having deferred our planned spring trip to Egypt, we jumped on a week "at the beach", but it was so much more...

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean. The strategic positon of Cyprus, attracted the first Greeks, who came to the island over 3,000 years ago at the end of the Trojan wars. Over the centuries Cyprus was occupied by the Egyptians, Assyrians, Persians, Romans, Venetians, Ottomans and finally the British. Hence driving on the left (wrong) side of the road and there are constant signs to remind drivers of this oddity. On 20 July 1974, Turkey invaded Cyprus and currently controls about 25% in the Northeastern region. Cyprus is the only divided country in Europe and Nicosia is the only divided capitol in the world!

Our week was spent doing what tourist do: we ate great food in copious amounts, we took drives in the mountains and hillsides thru darling little villages, we sunbathed, we explored antiquites & stopped at a winery, we paused at taverns for a beer and sat in the shade to people watch. Linda also raved about Keo, the official beer of Cyprus. We tried Keo and Leon, both Cypriot and both a bit light, but enjoyable just the same. Scott was pleased when we found taverns that had Guinness or Oyster Bay Stout. We watched watched football (soccer) at a brewery as we dined on wonderful Italian and we stolled the tourist areas several times. The Paphos Castle, actually a 4 foot thick-walled fortress, which was built by the Byzantines and rebuilt several times due to earthquakes and wars, was a welcome respite after long walk along the harbor. This was a low-key and restful holiday. Evenings we spent listening to music and playing gin rummy (Scott was usually the winner).

Two areas deserve their own blogs: The Paphos Archeological Site, Unesco World Cultural Heritage status and the darling little village of Kathikas up in the hills above Peyia. Keep watching for posts.

We are already dreaming of another visit to Cyprus...

Sweet Dreams,

Scott and Christine

Evening with an Emirati Family

2011-03-26T16:45:00.000-07:00

Although a bit blurry, the entry hall inlaid marble can be seen. The main door to the house is at the top of the pix To the left of this picture is the woman's sitting area - or what we'd call the Parlor. Turning directly around the picture below is that of the flying staircase and the sitting area at the base of the stairs. Although other office areas in the home, this central area seems popular with the children playing computer games.

Ornate furniture & many pillows/floor cushions are evident through out the house. The staircase was marble with wrought iron railings. Richly patterned and textured wallpaper is used extensively, as are lush area rugs.

The downstairs formal living room is circular. This is where the family gathers in the evening if they are not in the other less formal area. The "informal" living room is directly behind the photographer which has the TV and lots of very comfortable furniture & a huge central serving table.

This is the upstairs sitting area outside the bedrooms. This room is just above the first floor living room . All of the windows have blinds of some type and many layers of heavy and ornate window treatments - sumptious. To respect the cultural preferance to females pictures being published, we will keep well back and not reveal facial details.

Christine wearing a "old school" facial veil, this is also known as a burka. Both the beautiful silk scarf and burka belong to family members, who were quite amused to see a western woman in their garments. She is sitting in the family room with the main entrance behind her. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The most sincinct way to describe our evening with an Emerati family would be GRACIOUS HOSPITALITY. From the moment we entered the front hall, until we took our leave 4 hours later, we were pampered and made to feel so very welcome. Christine was inside the house all evening with the women. She received a tour of the entire house, but Scott was only shown a few rooms on the ground floor. These are the rooms pictured above.

Christine's Impressions: I was introduced to 4 generations of Emerati women. The younger women treated their seniors with respect and a sharp word or look was all it took to reprimand an errant child. The older women did not speak any English (well, hey, I do not know more than 10 words in Arabic...). The younger women were quite busy repeating everything into the other language. The 2 young girls from the photo above were delightful. An 11 y/o daughter of the house and a 9 y/o cousin spent a great deal of time sitting near me and explaining conversation, customs and asking me questions and teaching me a few words). Polite and well mannered were the children of this home.

I was offered delicious food and drink the entire visit. Fresh mango juice and fresh avacado juice with raspberry topping was absolutely amazing. Arabic coffee is quite different from American style, but lovely none the less. The meal was huge and the women sat around a gorgeous table in a special company room. I'll let Scott describe the food in his comments, however, it was interesting as all given silverware, but I was only one using it. One of the women told our hostess that she should eat with her fork because I would be offended. Perhaps, I was the one who would have offered offense for not even trying. If we are ever fortunate enough to be invited again, I will certainly use my hands.

Dessert was served in the visitors room right inside the front door. Scott was invited back inside for black forest cake and more delicious chocolates & coffee. We sat with an extended grouping of the hosts' family. Every family member made such an effort to see to my comfort and make me feel welcome. This was an absolutely amazing evening for me AND I got to hold a 3-week old baby!

Scott's experience:

As Christine said - gracious hosts and so welcoming. I was escorted to the men's majlis - or meeting area which is a complete house outside the main house. One room is "Western" with seating, the other is Arabic with cushions on the floor. I and 14 other men conversed all evening - again some in Arabic and when required - in English. We talked politics and found that most are in complete agreement with the situations in Egypt, Bharain, Yemen and Libya. All see the oppressed finally getting their say in the future. How the USA fits in was interesting and at times we took it on the chin but other times were praised for our support. We actually sat outside on a carpet with cushions and a fire going in a patio fireplace. A TV was also outside and was tuned to a news channel to monitor any goings on. It provided a constant source of topics to debate.

Around 10:30 we were called to dinner. I found a small table set for me in a western style. The main course was on a big platter in the middle of the floor. Lamb byariani with tabouli. I passed on the the western accomodation and we all sat on the floor and ate with our right hand tearing the meat from the bone, rolling it into a rice ball and popping it into our mouths. The food was excellent and the lamb melted in your mouth. Following dinner we all returned to the patio and enjoyed tea and coffee served by a house servant who was quite adept at keeping the tea and coffee flowing. Around 11:30 I collected Christne and we said our goodbyes to all. This was our first experience on sharing in an Emirati party and we are anxious to be asked again. They are good people and we certainly felt welcomed. Again in keeping with our hosts privacy I've omitted their idenity. Privacy is a HUGE componet of the Emirati social order and we were honored to be invited in to get a glimpse of this culture.

I did check out the kitchen - it is a seperate building out side the main house and it is not what you'd expect to see. They use applicances specifically made to cook the rice and slow roast the lamb which are easily transported and are gas bottle fired. Although there is a traditional looking kitchen- it is not used as we would. I found this interesting as my love of cooking ( and eating) got a big "Huh" when I realized the use of the appliances to do the majority of the food prep.

To wrap it up, We were honored to recieve this gift of Emirati hospitality.

Love to all,

Scott and Christine

Triathlon Time

2011-03-21T08:24:00.001-07:00

Scott has completed his part of the Triathlon. Now he just has to run to meet Stephan at the cycling startline. Scott said the run was the hardest part!

Hendrik crosses the finish line, note the team time of 5 hours 48 minutes and 24 seconds

Team 376 Scott Morrow - Swimmer (American), Hendrik Atsma - Runner (Dutch) and Stephan Saenger - Cyclist (German)

Our Triathletes at Toast the Tri Gathering the following Weekend: Reinier Van Der Wal did the short coarse, same as our relay team, except he did the entire race. Our team of Stephan, Hendrik and Scott. Peter Satchwell did the the long coarse which is basically the entire coarse TWICE. He is a crazy man and plans to do an Ironman competition in South Africa

The Long-Suffering Wives: Katarina Saenger, Katherine Atsma, Christine Morrow, Ginette Satchwell and Marleen Van Der Wal. We are smiling because the race is over!

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The Abu Dhabi Triathon - Where do I start to explain this turn of events for Scott... Well, Scott has been swimming almost daily since last summer and competed in the Abu Dhabi Mile Swim on the Corniche Beach last October (Go back and read that blog to get info on the Van Der Wal family). I believe that competitive spirit was rekindled that day, as Scott was out of the water 3 seconds before Rainier...

Jan 2011 We went to the Yas Triathlon (held on Yas Island home of the F-1 race venue) to cheer on Reinier and Martin Simpson. Scott and Stephan (also employed at Mafraq Hospital) were talking and Stephan tells Scott that he is a cyclist but not much of a swimmer. I commented that it was a shame that athletes such as Scott (who will never run farther than the shore line to the cyclist again) cannot compete as a relay team. We are told "Oh, Yes there are relay teams" and the trap was sprung!

The guys found Hendrik to run. Hendrik has only run for a few years and he told me that he started running as a way to relieve the stress and clear his head. Amazing!

The Abu Dhabi Triathlon is only in it's second year and is already attracting world-class athletes. The purse was $50,000 to top male and top female and 1,200 people participated. Swimming venue was The Emirates Palace, a 7-star hotel at the far end of the Corniche. Scott swam two mornings before the race at the Emirates beach, while I enjoyed watching the news, sports and organizer people prepare. (It is rough sitting on a beach towel watching everyone else work.)

Race Day we were up at 4:30 and picked up Reinier for drive downtown. At the swim venue way too early (but you all know Scott and "The Schedule"). We watched the sun & the excitement level rise as the crowds swelled in anticipation of the race start. 30+ Male Elite were first wave, followed two minutes later by 20+ Female Elite. There were 10 separate waves (i.e. starts) as 1,200 individuals entering the water at the same time would be difficult. Scott was in the 6th wave of about 200 swimmers. He got a mouth full of water, his goggles filled with water and with so many people he felt he was in a washing machine. However, he finally settled down and found his stroke. I was thrilled to be at the finish line and capture his picture. As an aside, Reinier was in the same wave and beat Scott this time - rematch anyone?

Scott handed off the ankle braclet with timing chip to Stephan and off he went. While Stephan cycled from one end of the Corniche to the other, out on to Saydiat Island out onto Yas Island and back again... (Gosh, I'm exhausted just thinking about the 100 km for short course cyclists.)

Scott, Hendrik and I walked a very long way up to the next transition spot. Apparently there were buses, but we missed that valuable piece of information. We met up with Rainier and Hendrik's families and were in plenty of time to shout encouraging words to Stephan as he handed off the racing chip to Hendrik. Waiting and cheered for all athletes we knew, including an American woman (from Indianapolis) who came to Abu Dhabi alone just to do the Tri.

Race Day was extremely warm (even by Abu Dhabi standards) and some competitors were unable to finish. Our dear friend Martin (you will recall him from New Year's Day blog about hosting the USNA Midshipmen) was forced to drop out due to major issues with his bicycle; I see a new cycle in his future...

While Hendrik was running 10km, Scott and I had an ice cream and enjoyed the company of Stephan's family. Decided Hendrik should be showing up fairly soon, so we ventured out of the delightful shade and made our way to the finish line. Scott raises the camera and voila, there was his teammate. Hendrik had run the 10 km in less than an hour and this after the long walk (I'll tell him about the bus, too).

To Toast our Athletes, a gathering was held at Katherine and Hendrik's villa last Saturday afternoon. It was cooler day and we all enjoyed being outside. The many children were running and playing in the neighborhood park, which they found after they had eaten their fill. The food was lovely as everyone brought something and we all just sat and enjoyed the day. Meanwhile, the athletes were discussing training strategy, this race and future races. Peter got quite a ribbing for his exhausting regeime and his ironman competition was discussed at length. Reinier beating Scott is the swim portion of the race was also brought up and a re-match was discussed. The wives were able to get to know each other and commiserate over the trials of being wives of athletes. However, there is a plan afoot for Ginette, Marleen & Katherine to do the triathlon next year. Hendrik may do the full course himself and we found out that Katarina is a runner.

It was a varied group of people: British, German, Dutch, Scottish and 2 lone Americans, which may be my favorite aspect of living overseas: meeting people from other countries. Scott is committed to swim in late April in Dubai with another acquaintance from Mafraq Hospital. Christoph completed the sprint course of the Triathlon, but prefers to run.

AND there is also next years Triathlon to ponder...

Love to you all, Christine (& Scott)

One Year Ago Today

2011-02-07T17:15:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

8 February 2011

One year ago today our beloved companion GG died in Christine and Wes's arms. I thought it was only fitting that we had a lasting memory of her - hence the picture. It hangs in our living room here in Abu Dhabi and is approx. 20" x 27" on canvas.

I've seen this effect at the Andy wahrol Museum in Pittsburgh and like it. Then I saw it advertised in articles in various magazines- but the cost was excessive. While up at the Dubai Mall, I discovered a kiosk offering this service at a reasonable cost.

I hope you like it. We do.

Love to all,

Scott and Christine

Where were you when...

2011-02-02T01:57:00.000-08:00

L-to-R Nadin, Henrick, Soren and Svenya

Hi All

Ground Hog Day, 2 Feb 2011

Last evening we were invited to Nadin and Soren for drinks and nibbles. Their children are Svenya and Henrich, who were up when we arrived. They are beautifully behaved and it's humbling to hear this little people speaking German one sentence and English the next... We have spent time with them poolside and enjoy them all very much.

They are both from Berlin; however, not the same part of the city. Nadin is East Berlin and Soren is West Berlin. In the course of the evening, the Fall of The Berlin wall came up in conversation. It was so interesting to hear Nadin's perspective of that time. She recalled a general unease in the city and she turned on the radio at 3:00 AM to hear a reporter interviewing an East Berlin official. The official was telling people that they no longer need a visa to cross the border. He meant to say that the government was going to work on shortening the 6 month process; however, his mis-speaking opened a floodgate of citizens demanding to cross the border. The guards were completely overwhelmed and acquessed! Upon awakening in the morning, Nadin asked her mother about the radio broadcast. Her mother was completely surprised when they turned on the television and this momentous happening and it was right down the road! The beautiful part of Nadine's story was her heartfelt joy and this happened over 20 years ago.

She said "I remember it was a Thursday and I was 15" and a lovely smile came to her face. We were so touched by her remembrance of that time. Soren, who is more reserved, wasn't quite as effervescent in his memory. Soren, raised on the "other" side of town, told of going to the East and how much their money was worth there.

Scott and I began talking about being in our first home with our two little boys. We said that we never thought the Wall would come down in our lifetimes. Then Christine said "Mr Gorbachov, Nadin jumped in TEAR DOWN THIS WALL" So, do you remember where you when when The Wall came down?

Another funny antidote from last evening was Nadin asked how we met. Picture Scott and I sitting on the loveseat and Scott is telling the story of how we knew each other in high school and then met up again 9 years later. I was adding details when Scott would look to me for a bit of help. After we finish, Nadin asked if we had ever seen the movie "When Harry Met Sally" and we admitted that yes we indeed knew the movie well. Nadin said that our story was like one of the couples interviewed throughout the movie. We all got a laugh out of that.

Living in Sas al Nakhl has been a good experience for us because of the people we have gotten to know. The night before we had gone over to Chris and Suzanna's for dinner. That evening Rudy, from South Africa, was also a guest. It was very interesting to talk to discuss race so opening with Rudy, because he is of mixed blood and just tells you so right up front. That night we had 3 continents represented. Each person we meet has a wealth of history and perspective and it has been so enjoyable talking with our neighbors.

Do you remember where you were on 9 November 1989 - Nadin does.

Love to all,

Scott and Christine

Boat Ride and Food

2011-01-27T16:12:00.000-08:00

January 2011 and what to do on a rainy and cool winter's day in Abu Dhabi...
Why take a ride on a boat, of course! A group of administrators and physicians from Mafraq Hospital were scheduled to take a boat cruise last weekend. Rainy, windy and very cool for Abu Dhabi was the weather of the day. Now this is NOT a complaint, merely an observation. We started out on the covered top deck of the boat (it was larger than these, as these are the traditional fishing dhows so common in the area). Lovely fruit juices were served and we had conversation while we waited for the lost member of the group to find his way to Mina Port. One of the physicians also lives in Sas Al Nakhl Village; we recognized her children from the pool.

This was the appetizer and by far the best part of the meal. It was all chilled seafood and beautifully presented. We both finished every morsel.

Fruit and pastries were dessert. What about the entree you might ask... Well, let's just say that we skipped over the entree on purpose. Not sure if it was only so-so because of the 1 hour wait for the lost physician or maybe it just started out that way.

Anyway, fresh fruit is very common for dessert here and we both enjoyed it. But the pastries,

were gorgeous. Christine tried all 4 kinds (well, it was dessert!) and she pronounced the winner to be the third from the front with pistachio topping and chocolate. The pastries feature an almost jello type of filling as opposed to icing - refreshing.

But the winner for the entire week was what Scott brought home from work. This is a tray of nearly 200 Patchi chocolates, "Danger Will Robinson, Danger!!!" Scott had done a nice turn for a colleague and was rewarded with this! We walked around if for 3 days before Christine couldn't stand it any longer (was it those glasses of wine before dinner). The cellophane covering and several candy wrappers were history! Next evening we pulled this beautiful arrangement apart, eating as we went. The wrappers were hot glued to a piece of styrofoam underneath (thank goodness for that). A huge tupperware container on the top shelf of the kitchen is now their home and yesterday we managed to ignore it completely. But as Scarlett O'hara says "tomorrow is another day."

Winter in Abu Dhabi is overcast and cooler. It has rained off and on the past three weeks and several times we walked and swam in the rain. The only day it was awful was the day we took the boat cruise (naturally!). Cooler mornings are perfect for walking and Christine has been out every day. Liz Crossen joins her several times each week and they do set a brisk pace. Scott is just as dedicated to his swimming program. Several days each week he will do a longer session or different strokes. Weekends are nice for our activities because we meet up at the pool and enjoy the sunshine, except for those rainy weekends.

Our lives have settled into a familiar pattern of Scott cooking and Christine keeping up with the laundry and housekeeping. We continue to meet new folks in the compound. We take joy in being together and in saving toward retirement. Go 5-Year Plan!

In closing, we send love to our family and friends and would be remiss should we not pay homage to our childhoods in the Pittsburgh area with a rousing --

GO STEELERS!

Christine & Scott

New Years Day with Midshipmen

2011-01-08T03:02:00.001-08:00

Paying It Forward or Thanks, depends upon how you look at life... Maybe a little of both. Christine posed outside our villa as we got ourselves in the mood to host a group of Naval Academy Midshipmen and their advisors. Scott thinks this could also be titled "Dress For Success".

In our living room 5 Midshipmen, Martin Simpson (HMRN Ret. Commander, on couch) and Christine

On the patio just off our living room are three Midshipmen and Major Aron Axe, on right (USNA '99 and also an instructor). Mid in the front is prior enlisted Marine, as is Major Axe.

It took 2 borrowed tables put end-to-end with ours to accommodate our group. At this end are Emma Quinn, Dr. Deborah Wheeler, Kiley Provenzano & Chelsey Boggs. The mid in the red shirt is a Firstie and his service selection is Marines (He recognized Alex from his graduation picture). The mid across the table is Devereaux Smith (I remember his name cause he was BIG guy and I kept pushing food on him and the others).

Please note the USNA Class of 2010 blanket we used to "decorate" and the yellow and blue tableware. Love to festoon for our gatherings, but Scott drew the limit at the table. He said that the Mids were probably happy not to think "Blue & Gold" on holiday to U.A.E.

When the question was posed what they could do to help clean up, we gave a resounding "nothing, but we do require a group photo!"

This is Midshipmen 3/c Emma Quinn with us. She is the daughter of one of Christine's school friend John William Quinn from Quaker Valley High School. John and Christine grew up 2 blocks apart and he was also in the same Boy Scout troop with Scott sponsored by the Methodist Church in Sewickley (church in which we were married).

Okay, you may be wondering (and justifiably so) how a group of Midshipmen visiting UAE would hook up with a couple of ex-pats... Christine and John were talking on FB last autumn (if you've read the entire blog, you know that they hooked up at Alex's graduation last May) And John mentions that Emma will be coming to Abu Dhabi over Christmas break. Lots of back and forth conversations, via e-mail, of course followed. The group had a tight schedule, but we were plugged into the schedule for New Year's Day.

The group arrived and Scott promptly escorted them down to our swimming pool to relax in the sun. Christine stayed at the villa and talked with Maj Axe (yes, Louisville friends, I've got his life story and it is very interesting). Alex, having spent part of a Christmas holiday in Jordan, advised us on the menu. We served an American Picnic of hamburgers, potato salad, baked beans, coleslaw and sauerkraut meatballs (sauerkraut is tradional "good luck" food in Northern part of USA). We did not want to compete with the traditional foods of the Mid East or the fabulous meals their parents would have just slaved over.

HMRN ret. Commander & former USNA faculty 1998-2001 (taught navigation and handled the YP's) Martin Simpson spoke with our group. Martin captained the HMS Northumberland and served in the waters off the coast of Somalia. He spoke at length about his experience and observations during the interdiction of the Somali pirates. Martin is after all a sailor and certainly can turn a colorful phrase. A reliable source tells us Martin was quoted throughout the remainder of the trip, something about Cheese Eating Surrender Monkeys ie: the French.

Chris Peters (yes, the guy across the street) works for E-Ships, so he came over for lunch and joined in the discussion from the commercial shipping point of view.

One of my personal goals is to act upon my better impulses and Scott feels strongly about "paying it forward". When the possibility of hosting a group of Midshipmen arose, we felt it might be good for them to see how Americans live and work in a Mid Eastern country. We are hoping that we might have the opportunity to host other Midshipmen in the future. Although we only had a few hours with this group, they were able to relax and enjoy a little bit of "home".

In closing this post, we leave you with the words of Edwin Arlington Robinson,

Two kinds of gratitude: the sudden kind we feel for what we take; the larger kind we feel for what we give.

Love to All, Scott and Christine

New Years Eve

2011-01-08T00:28:00.000-08:00

Ringing in the New Year If this dining room is starting to look familiar that is because Chris & Suzanna Peters are such welcoming hosts. John & Jan from Newcastle, UK, Doug Peters from London, Chris and Christine start the gathering off around 7:00 PM. The table behind us was covered with a vast array of food, which was enjoyed by guests 1 y/o to 80's

This group seems to only have male offspring. These guys had a wonderful evening of food, video games, party favors and racing around. It was a beautiful evening and the boys played outside until it got too cool to stand anymore. Oddly enough, Taavi the youngest at 14 months was upstairs asleep in his own bed.

. The boys have moved onto party hats and the brand new toy a Wii. Actually the Wii was a gift from Doug to Chris and Suzanna, but the big boys couldn't get anywhere near it that night.

Christine makes a point with Hendrick & Katherine Atsma, parents of two of the young partygoers. Katherine is the daughter of John and Jan from first photo.

Visitors from Europe are very common around the holidays. The flights are normally not a headache, although Heathrow was a zoo this year having experienced heavy snow in early December and then the week right before Christmas. The weather in Abu Dhabi is currently fantastic, with cool mornings and evenings and wonderful breezes during the day. Don't get to jealous, remember summer brings 120 degrees and you can't catch your breath.

We met several sets of grandparents on New Year's Eve and have enjoyed their company poolside and while walking. The grandparents of the boy, in photo with cones popping out of his head, are also from UK. They are retired and spend 6 months of the year with Tampa as their homebase and have been touring the US for years. We found them delightful to talk with and enjoyed their perspective of "home".

We made it to the New Year and toasted/hugged before giving up and walking across the street about 12:20.

Luke looked like a version of a punk rocker and Joseph Atsma almost popped his eyes out by blowing out his party favor. The little boys finally got a chance at the Wii. Amazingly they were still going strong at midnight, do you think it was all the sugar they had consumed?

Love to All,

Scott and Christine

Christmas Day and Boxing Day

2011-01-07T21:42:00.001-08:00

Hi all,
Christmas just had to be different this year. We couldn't face No Children/Family, No Decorations or Tree, No Snow or cooler temperatures, so we decided to embrace the difference. Voila! Christmas morning on the Corniche Beach in Abu Dhabi proper. Packed a cooler with fruit and Bloody Marys. Scott enjoyed just sitting and looking out at the beautiful turquoise waters, as he decided the water was too cool for a swim.

Christine models her Christmas gift. Scott purchased this sarong in Goa from a beach vendor. Enjoyed half of her morning treat and then went for a little walk along the water's edge.

Beautifully set Christmas table at The Peter's home, (Chris and Suzanna) note the traditional English "crackers" on the table. Each person pulls the cracker (silver or gold wrapped tubes at each place) and it makes a loud pop sound. Inside are prizes and paper crowns.

Chris with Taavi after dinner. Chris looks stern, actually he was exhausted because he and Scott did the vast majority of the cooking. We had ham, turkey, stuffing (Christine's Mom's recipe), potatoes, brussel spouts, green beans, carrots, rutabaga, parsnips, and a Finnish recipe of carrots and squash. The huge amount of veggies is important and read on to find out why...

Layla (Suzanna's Mother), Taavi, Richard (Chris' boss) and Doug (Chris' Father). We are just about ready to eat - there was sooo much food and it was all wonderful.

We know that most people are about has happy as they decide to be, so, we decided to embrace the difference. Chris & Suzanna and their other guests were so gracious about including us in their Christmas Day and Boxing Day plans that we were busy and the time passed quickly and very much was enjoyed. Dinner on Christmas Day was huge affair. Dessert was also impressive. Chris brought back a proper Christmas pudding from London. This dessert is sort of like a really moist fruitcake - really moist because it has been soaking in brandy for the past 6 months. Chris poured more brandy over the cake and lit it on fire. While the cake is lit, Chris is spooning the flaming brandy over the cake. Delicious with a bit over brandy sauce anda glass of port. We rolled ourselves across the street.

Boxing Day (Dec 26th) is huge holiday in UK. We were invited back for Boxing Day celebration of elegant leftovers. The hit of the day is called "Bubbles and Squeak". Essentially all left over veggies and potatoes/stuffing are mashed and then either pan fried or oven roasted. A fried egg is served over the B&S. Scott was thrilled to eat ham two days in a row - remember ham isn't often on the menu! We were made to feel so welcome and a part of our neighbors' Christmas plans, that Christine woke up and it was Dec 27th. She had made it through her first Christmas away from home (and the "boys")

Christine felt inspired to return the hospitality and made Turkey Devonshire (a.k.a. Hot Brown for our Louisville friends) and apple pie for the Peters' family. Later in the week, Scott requested Aunt Jo Herbst's Turkey Tetrazzini. She always made this for her holiday gatherings and Scott has always enjoyed it. Enough with the turkey already is Christine's thought process...

In retrospect, Christmas season was certainly different, but lovely none the less.

Love to all,

Scott and Christine

December 2010

2011-01-07T21:15:00.000-08:00

A few weeks before Christmas we made a trip up to Dubai and I caught Christine with the Burj Khalifa. This building truly is amazing. You have to book tickets to the observation deck near the top (around the 120th floor). We are waiting for visitors to experience this view, any takers?

Cheese , Cheese and more Cheese- Christine's major food group! We heard about an Australian cafe/shoppe called Jones The Grocerier and in our effort to experience as much as possible, well, we went for brunch. The coffee and pastries were lovely. Scott sampled the eggs benedict
and his verdict was "Mom's is Better". There were lots of foodstuffs to purchase, but I was thrilled to enter the Cheese Room - it smelled wonderful! Oh, and I was saying "cheese" for the photographer.

Father Christmas comes on Christmas Eve in Finland. The sandals are a surefire clue that we're not in Finland. Next December Father Christmas may have to find some proper footwear cause we know Taavi is going to catch on.Suzanna and Taavi. He's almost 15 months here and dressed in a darling elf outfit. - He'll kill if these pictures get out in 14 years. The elf outfit came from Finland.

Taavi doesn't know what to think of Father Christmas - All I can tell you is that he doesn't want to be too close !

Christmas Eve was so different this year as there was no running around with last minute errands or wrapping presents. We decided to have a special dinner of rack of lamb and a lovely bottle of wine. Our evening was enhanced with watching "It's A Wonderful Life" and knowing that indeed, we are living a wonderful life togther so far away. Plus we know that we are making such lovely memories while we work diligently toward The 5-Year Plan.

Love to all,

Scott and Christine

India Travels 18 - The End

2010-12-18T01:06:00.000-08:00

Enjoying a seaside massage. He hit all the right buttons and worked out a stubborn knot in my back. Well worth the $15 for 1/2 hr.

Christine with one of the ever present cows. They seem so docile but I wouldn't want to give them the chance.

Someone going for a parachute ride. - I watched and thought - not me!

This little girl did the slack rope walk setting up the entire apparatus with her mother who also had a 14? month old baby in tow right in front of our lounge chairs. She had previously come past with a little boy who played a tin plate like a drum while she contorted with a small hoop. When we gave her a few ruppies, she - of all those we gave money to - said "Thank You" and smiled so sweetly.

We both were in awe as to their ingenuity to make a living. The rope, pegs, hammer and other items were all carried by the mother, on her head with the baby in arms. The 4 poles were carried by the little girl on her head as well. I can't imagine a 8 year old in America even knowing how to use a hammer let alone working all day to put food on the plate.

Surprise ! - Christine had been contemplating a change in hair styles - feeling ill and not wanting to mess with her long hair any more, she booked an appointment at the resort salon and had it cut off. The stylist was very leary and tried to go shoulder length - but with Christine's adamant instructions finally got her to cut it short. She's so happy with it and has taken 1/2 hr off her morning beautification regime.

Our stay was over in Goa and we left for the airport. Since we had some extra time before needing to be there , we took a side trip into Old Goa. There at the Basilica de Bom Jesus was the Tomb of St Francis Xavier - his body lies in state here since it's interment in 1553. That's it on top. He was cannonized because his body was in perfect condition when they dug it up a year later to transfer his bones to a more suitable resting place. Declared a miracle, he was made a Saint in 1622. I have to tell you - it didn't look too perfect 450 years later.

Christine with her "nose to the grindstone" One of the relics outside an old church.

In the capital, Panaji, there is this statue of Abbe de Faria - a Goan priest who won acclaim as the father of modern hypnosis in Paris. Pretty cool statue don't you think?

We arrived at the airport, caught the connection to Mumbai ( yes 3 times in that miserable airport) had a 6 hour layover and arrived back in Abu Dhabi at 3a local time.

We didn't leave the house for 2 days living off what was in the refridgerator and cabinets. Had it not been for the Delhi Belly, the trip would have naturally been more enjoyable. However, it was a once in a life time opportunity to visit a facinating country and to see and do things we never thought we'd have the chance to do. This ends the India Travelogue. We hope you enjoyed it,

Love to all,

Scott and Christine

India Travels 17 - On to Goa

2010-12-17T21:20:00.000-08:00

Still in Jaipur -The Hawa Mahal - Built in 1799 the windows were again used as a place from where the harem could observe the street below. The Archaeological Museum is now attached to this building. Note the pink color - Jaipur is known as "The Pink City" Jaipur is also known as India's finest example of a planned city with it's geometric grid of streets and squares. (Crowded and dirty- read filthy- streets and squares)

A statue to the Monkey God - Hanuman. It's about 40' tall.

The beach in Goa. ( Goa is a state in India. We were about 25 miles south of the capital, Panaji, in a town called Mobor. ) Relaxation - here we come ! Our resort, the Donna Sylvia, is 300m to the rear. ( Yeah I know weird name)

Not all the sights on the beach were fond memories - Please note Christine is in complete agreement, while on the other hand some of the memories are good. She's with a Brit we met. She and her husband-to-be were on a buying trip for their upcomming wedding. They could buy all the groomsmen waistcoats and suits plus have a great vacation for a fraction of the cost back in the UK. Christine is feeling much better with a Kingfisher in hand. I personally feel the hottest babe on the beach was the one I bought.

Yes - cows on the beach. They strolled on by, stopped and lounged in the surf then moved on. The people in the foreground are selling their wares. They were respectfully polite and didn't push themselves upon you when told no thanks. A completely different style compared to those in the north who were as persistent as flies on a fresh cow patty. They were so annoying you had to steel yourself for the onslaught every time you exited the car.

Christine at "Our" beach shack bar/restaurant, the "Silver Sand".

Note the menu- also in Russian. We were the only ones there representing our country at the resort - all others were UK or Russians. (As was the large person in the previous picture - she and her equally rotund friend were a sight which has been sadly burned into my memory scaring me for life)

Just up the beach was this typical hand hewn Goan boat w/ outrigger. I came across this on my sunrise walk the day after my birthday. Christine was still enjoying sleepy time.

Obviously the Lifeguard station for our section of the Goan coastline.

Hi All,

Jaipur was quite interesting but unfortunately seeing it alone - even though I had hired a guide, is not as fun when you do it by yourself. To ease Christine's disapointment of missing the elephant ride and tours, I had the driver take me to a store where you could buy fabrics. Jaipur is known for their fabric block printing method. There I purchased 2 tablecloths - one a deep red and the other blue, both which had elephants on them. She was thrilled to get them even though she felt so poorly.

We had to leave for the airport at 5:30a the following morning so we got our bags packed the night before and had a small Chinese meal in the hotel. The wonton soup was exactly what Christine needed and she perked up some.

Our flight to Goa via Mumbai was uneventful and we landed in a completely different world. Goa is laid back, not crowded and not nearly as dirty.Mainly catholic, it was settled by the Portugese. Compared to the Muslum and Hindu, crowded, insane, dirty north we had just left, this was a much more familiar paradise.

We had booked an all inclusive (alcohol too) resort which had 4 unit bungalows instead of the typical hotel. It was a short 300 meters to the beach where we relaxed and dealt with the lingering Delhi Belly. Christine kept an eye out for Matt Damon (Jason Bourne). I did my best imitation - unfortunately she saw thru the ruse !

India Travels 16 - More of Jaipur

2010-12-17T18:53:00.000-08:00

The hill opposite the Amber Fort. The area has many walls and observation towers. I would have hated to have been the guy who worked at the top. That's one heck of a climb. The lake for the water garden starts directly to the right of the picture.

This is the entry courtyard - see the elephants on the right. Picture taken from entry gate to the palace compound. To my left, out of view, is the Hindu Temple to Shiva.

One of the many sights - here a woman stood just inside the highly inlaid main gate - seen in the previous post. I gave her a few ruppees - maybe a nickel - for the picture.

No that isn't a big zit on my forehead. One of the interior gardens w/ fountain directly across from the private meeting chambers. The harem and sleeping area is to the right.

This is the inside of the carved marble screen in the main palace gate where the ladies (harem) would watch the activities in the courtyard below but could still remain descreetly out of view. No - and stop saying that I have a zit on my forehead ! I'm actually practicing my Halloween Costume - I'm going as a coffee perculator this year - You know - when the red light comes on - Coffee's Done !

Now this is when it's "Good to be King" ! From this perch, the king would sit and watch the ladies perform and dance in a private courtyard below. When one suited his fancy , she was beckoned to the private sleeping quarters which are behind me. - There were 12 rooms around the courtyard for the ladies. The wives of the king along with the harem had no problem with this arrangement. Sometimes I wish we could return to these glory days of yesteryear!

Ouch - Christine just kicked me !

Also in Jaipur, the Jai Mahal, known as Water Palace sits in the middle of a lake. An awesome sight which seemed to float was so peaceful. This palace was built for royal duck hunting parties. I hear the sale price is low beacuse of a constant water problem in the basement.

The Peacock Gate leading from the 'Courtyard of the Beloved" inside the City Palace. Quite ornate and 3-D ( breast and head of peacock extends out from the inlay work)

This is the City Palace where the ruling Maharaja lives in the building behind the 4 story pink structure. - It was through the doors directly behind me where you'd enter the "courtyard of the beloved". The ruler is a figurehead and has no official powers. In the building to the right are 2 HUGE silver urns - as tall as I am - which held over 900 gallons each of sacred Ganges water which were taken to London in 1901 for the Maharaja's visit (yes - he took his own drinking water ) These urns are in the Guinness Book of Records as the worlds larges silver objects. ( the picture didn't turn out well so you're not seeing them)

This is a giant 75' tall sundial - "accurate to 10 seconds" - Built in 1728, Jantar-Mantar next to the City Palace, is a compound of about 30 different observatories which would give date/ time/ star charts, zodiac sign start/end dates etc. They were big into horoscopes and foretelling of the future. In this picture the shadow was read on the curved section on left which is calibrated to hours/minutes and 10ths of minutes. I was amazed at the complexity and accuracy obtained from the seemingly archaic but intricate large scale devices.

India Travels 15 Jaipur

2010-12-13T16:34:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

Our next stop was Jaipur. Sorry these are out of order so we will go backwards. Above I am at the main gate to the Amber Fort. A palace about 1/2 up this big hill. The fort at the top is closed. This fort/palace was built in 1592. The carved marble screens at the top would allow the ladies to watch the action in the courtyard. Oh, where is Christine ? As we came into Jaipur the evening before, she was progressively getting sicker and sicker - yes the Delhi Belly. She opted to stay in bed and close to the facilities that day - Good thing as she wasn't much bettter when I arrived back at the hotel in the mid-afternoon - sick myself. It was a good thing we had a suite with two restrooms. Needless to say - this was not what we wanted to happen , brought pills and took extra precautions with washing hands etc. but to no avail. The remainder of the trip was that ill feeling and keeping a facility close at hand. - You know the routine.

This is looking down at the water garden. With the palace way up here, and the water way down there , they used an ingenious method to raise the water up 5 levels - a conveyor belt with earthenware pots to a cistern then repeated the process at each level. Since water was so precious, they used it many times before it was discarded. For cooling, bathing, cleaning and then on to the gardens.

Me at the main gate again. Note the inlay work and frescos walls. You can see this alcove on the picture above.

This is outside the private meeting chambers of the ruler. The place is inlayed with semiprecious stones and of all things - mirrors. When candles were lit at night , the reflections were like stars in the sky. On the otherside of the chamber, workman are doing restoration and cleaning. You'd be amazed at how white it was compared to where I am standing which is darker with the dirt and dust of the ages.

Just call me Swami ! The guy on the left was palying a drum like instrument where he plucked at a wire which then beat the drum which is under his left leg. The snakes are de-fanged so no worries. I actually ended up "petting" one of the cobra's on the head- Brave wasn't I? - ( I mean to wear that ridiculous looking turban)

Our ride awaits. The elephant I rode up to the fort is on the left. Not all that comfortable, but then again - better than walking to the top. To protect them from abuse, each elephant is allowed 5 trips per day. After that all visitors make the hike.

The elephant procession about 1/2 way up. The water garden lake is to the right of this picture.

The entry courtyard. This picture was taken from elephant back. You can see the main palace gate, upper center, seen in the pictures above. The structure to the left is where the ruler would have his public audiences. To the right, unfortunately hidden behind the tree is a Hindu temple to the goddess Shiva. No pictures were allowed inside. (Yes I got the red dot applied on my forehead) You entered the upper palace area via the steps on the right and thru yet another gate.

A Hindu Temple in the valley below.
The weather this day was overcast and hazy hence the picture quality.

India Travels 14 The Step Well

2010-12-13T01:09:00.000-08:00

So, we are driving down the highway and Vikrum asks if we want to see a big well. We look at each other and figure "why not, we might as well see everything possible. As we are driving down backroads we come across this building This is a school. It was about 3:00 PM and the students are all outside having their lessons

We drove into a small hamlet and Vikrum stops beside this building. We are thinking that is a big building to house a well. This is simply the entrance to the well compound. Once inside we pay a minimal fee and an older Indian gentleman motions us forward down a narrow passageway which opens to this...

This is an Indian Step Well. This well was constructed during the 8th and 9th centuries. There are 8 upper levels above the line of fencing. Three sides of the well look exactly like the side you see with people across the way. The 4th side is completely different because it was for the royals.

This shows the levels and steps better. No one is permitted below the lower fencing.

5 levels of steps below the fencing before you reach the water. The water was stagnant and green with algae as we are way past the Spring monsoons.

Part of the carved stonework on the lower portion of the 4th side - the Marahaja side. Carvings were throughout the complex. All numbered and carefully positioned out of the way of tourists.

Scott and Vikrum 5 levels down into the well.

The side of the step well reseved for the maharaja. The far left side was the private bath for the females and the closer right side was for the maharaja. These rooms were quite large and the center open court area was filled with small grottos for statues. All three areas were highly carved, but you could tell that many pieces were missing. The carving you saw above is one of the two from the lower left of the photo.

View out the window opening of the maharaja's private bathing area. The lower left shows a carving of an elephant.

Some of the many carved artifacts we saw at this humble step well. Aside from the age, it was obviously this was Hindu influence on the carvings. Figures of animals and people are front and center in the Hindi religion. Islam does not permit any animals figures - plants are acceptable.

India Travels 13

2010-12-09T20:01:00.001-08:00

This is the wildlife episode of our trip! Yes - it's a monkey - but it's a very special monkey - It's the Guard Monkey at the Jaypee Palace Hotel in Agra - it kept the street monkeys off the property. He was fierce!

Move over Harry Potter - Christine has her Nimbus 2000 and is ready for a game of Quidditch. OR... she just a witch and has her ride!

But, you all do know her motto: "If the broom fits, ride it!" We stopped at a bird & animal sanctuary on our drive to Jaipur. There was lots of water and lots of birds. This is a crane.

This is an antelope and yes, it was close to the road. We were on a bicicyle powered rickshaw and enjoyed the peaceful, open-air ride thru lovely setting.

Cutest little lizard and Scott got a wonderful shot. There were wildlife photographers staying in the lodge in the reserve. Some stay for weeks waiting for that perfect shot.

Another crane with a deer in the background. The reserve had many small "island" they had made over the years to promote nesting birds. At one time this was a maharaja private hunting preserve and he had the trees cut down so his guests could get better sight lines.

Christine saw this monitor lizard at the side of the road. It was 4 foot long and even then guide missed it! I stayed on the rickshaw while Scott got the better shot.

National bird of India is the peacock. No matter how many you see, they are still a thrilling site.

This was the luckiest monkey on the drive to Jaipur. Our driver stopped to buy bananas and knew just when to stop and called them in. They like the bananas, but they were too many monkey to all get a banana, so we threw this guy a whole apple. Vikrum grabbed the rest of the apples from us and broke them apart and gave pieces to the rest of the group. This monkey wasn't gonna share no how, no way!

Only about a quarter of the monkeys that enjoyed bananas and apples. Vikrum told us that he regularily stops and feeds them, but not apples like Americans.

India Travels 12 - Sites along the way

2010-12-09T03:48:00.000-08:00

As you travel through India there are many sites that defy a category, so here are a few things we saw of interest. This is in a round-about on a street in Agra; the Statue is Akbar The Great. Note that the signs are in english and the rickshaws are for hire and simply sitting on the inside of the traffic lanes. The orange bus (left rear) has curtains and is driving on the "correct" side of the road. India was colonized last by the British and some customs have taken root. The white circle (above bus) is a white marble inlaid table with semi-precious stone used as an advertisement for the store. Agra main commerce is tourism (Taj Mahal) and a wide variety of handicrafts (in-lay work, carvings, carpets and leather work)

This is a "jugar". A vehicle made from various and mismatched parts. This vehicle is considered roadworthy and we saw thousands of them. Note how tightly and highly the bags are packed. Also note the guy standing on the side of the vehicle (with only 3 on the seat!)

Yes, this is a goat being transported on a motorcycle, probably dinner...

Although this is only a 2 lane road, the rule is there are no rules. Here, with 1 lane in each direction, the camel powered cart is being passed on the inside by the bus. Note the stray dog lying on the side of the road with not a care in the world.

On the drive between Agra and Fatehpur Sikri 4 lanes of traffic came to a dead stop for an impromptu goat market. Hundreds of men with their livestock had set up the market. On the return trip, the market was gone and all that remained were the goat droppings. We were in shock!

A herd of water buffalo just leaving the Yamuna River after their morning swim and watering. This is in "downtown" Agra. They are run right down the main streets to the fields to graze and yes, they are also stopping traffic. Water buffalo are prized for their milk, which is delivered in the old metal milk cans we now see as antiques by motorcycle. Each motorcycle will typically have 4 cans strapped to it, one on each side and 2 as rear passengers.

These cloths have been washed in the Yamuna River (yes, same river the water buffalo just left) and have been laid out on the road side to dry. Every inch of space counts in the city. Just to the left of the picture is a slum where a simple lean-to is considered home. Poverty is pervasive.

A marble inlaying example. Each piece is cut by hand, some smaller than a tiny finger nail clipping, on the wheel as seen below.

Hand powered with a bow, each worker shapes the tiny inlaid pieces. The owner of the "factory" was the 15th generation of stone/inlaid workers. His forefather worked on the Taj and his uncle worked on the Grand Zayed Mosque here in Abu Dhabi.

Bringing two cultures together- Yuengling and India's Kingfisher beer. Christine and I enjoyed a nice lunch and some cold beer while we rested our feet.

India Travels 11 Fatehpur Sikri

2010-12-09T01:29:00.000-08:00

Fatehpur Sikri is an imperial palace complex. These red sandstone buildings and terraces were built by Akbar The Great. Akbar had 3 wives, each of a different faith: Muslim, Hindu and Christian. Each wife had a separate house, bath and gardens within the complex. The Hindu wife had the biggest and most lavish living quarters because she delivered the heir, Jahangir. Fatehpur Sikri , although quite large and beautiful red sandstone complex was completely abandoned within a fairly short time because the water in the area was found to be scare and unsuitable. As you look at the pictures, try to imagine the complex buildings with rich frescoes and gilding, lush potted plants scattered about, fine tapestries, rich canopies and beautiful textiles - all to suit an emperor, his wives and a harem.
This very tall & beautifully carved column holds a platform which is enclosed by pierced screen carvings. The emperor used to sit here with his nobles and hold private hearing. All the red sandstone (Akbar's favorite building medium) was quarried from the ridge on which they stand. The center is reached from carved walkway at each corner.

Hiran Minar is believed to be a memorial to Akbar's favorite elephant. The projections are hundreds of stone tusks. Our guide told us that Akbar's elephant was kept in the public gathering-garden area. As emperor, Akbar dispensed punishments and one was to have the elephant step on the transgessor's head - quish! At least you can see the beautiful countryside.

The projections from the tower are replicas of elephant tusks.

Ornately carved canopy was as amazing as beautiful. Typical of the entire complex - carvings. mosaics and gilded paintings throughout. Our heads were on a swivel. This canopy was for the astrologer.

This building is Diwan-I-Aam and you can see the intricately carved central pillar pictured above. It sits in the courtyard (as red sandstone) where Akbar gave public audiences.

In the private area of the royals is this interesing open-air pavillion. Heavy carpets and tapestries would have been hung in the winter months to keep out the cold. However, fine silk curtains in the warmer seasons would be drawn back to allow for cooler breezes to pass thru the mult-levelled building. The higher your level = your position, guess where Akbar sat?

This is Akbar's private chamber. Although Akbar had 3 wives, the chamber has a doorway for 5 nightly concubine visitors to enter unseen. The platform is quite high - about 7' off the ground to permit security and privacy. Imagine this stone platform piled high with matresses, rugs, pillows and 5 women, all enclosed with draperies. Scott's comment "It is good to be king!"

We are standing just outside on a terrace near Akbar's beautifully carved bed. That is a private bathing pool right outside and again Scott's comment "It is good to be King!" Notice the height of the ceiling - they were short people or as Christine said - Just the right height !

Badshani Darwaza, Akbar used this entrance to adjoining mosque complex. The very tall structure in the background is Buland Darwaza - the tallest gateway and the tallest doors in India. The short walk from the royal complex to the mosque complex is a gauntlet of street vendors that will follow you and pester you relentlessly. Christine gave in and bought - bracelets, what else?

Tomb of Sheik Salim Chisthi - exquisite marble serpentine brackets and almost transparent screens surround the inner tomb which has a sandalwood canopy inlaid with mother-of-pearl. Salim Chisthi predicted the end of Akbar's childlessness in 1568 and has become a symbol for childless women in search for their own miracles. Supplicants make a wish and tie a small cotton thread to the screen around the tomb. We, having two wonderful & grown sons, passed on this opportunity; however, the building was surrounded. I didn't think that a country that has over a billion people and a child born every 1/2 second might possibly have childless couples...

More red sandstone! This was about half mile from the complexes and I thought it lovely as it shows the hilly terraine and greenery of the area. Meanwhile Scott was accross the street selecting beautifully carved sandstone (whatelse) coasters and an insence burner with elephant motif. We toted them to the villa and are lovely reminders of this impressive area of India.

India Travels 10 - Agra Fort

2010-12-07T23:39:00.000-08:00

Agra Fort is on the West Bank of the Yamuna River, the same river that flows past the Taj Mahal. The red sandstone fort was begun in 1565 by Emperor Akbar The Great. The enormous complex of palaces, mosques, meetings halls and open courtyards from a crescent along the river front. There were originally two deep moats filled with crocodiles and tortoise. The fort has changed with additions by Emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan. A barracks to the north are 19th century British additions and parts of this sprawling complex is off limits to visitors. There are three separate and distinctly different city complexes in the Agra Fort and offer a glimpse into the guilded lives of India's Moghul rulers. This is Diwan-I-Khas, the place where Akbar held court with his ministers and ambassadors. Inside are two staircases - one for the Emperor and the other for his court. He could literally "hand down" decisions. The group outside is gathered around a well.

Emperor Akbar's personal bath. There are steps on the inside to easily get down.

An entire hallway of these beautifully carved columns runs along a courtyard.

Christine and Blauh (our guide) in the open courtyard where Emperor Akbar heard public complaints and offered HIS decrees.

Part of the mechanism that closed the Amar Singh Gate

At the entrance to the Agra fort and the Amar Singh Gate.

These towers are inside the fort. It was a military installation, as well as, home to the Emperor, his family, his harem and his advisors. Through this gate and a steep walk up a ramp to the main buildings. The ramp could be well defended from above.

The inner moat and view toward the Taj Mahal from the area where Emperor Shan Jahan spent his final days.

A single inlaid panel at the white marble Moti Masjid, typical of entire palaces in the fort.

Private gardens for the emperor and his guests. We tried to imagine what these gardens would have been like in the 16oo's when money and workers were on no consequence.

India Travels 9

2010-12-07T04:21:00.000-08:00

The Taj Mahal from a different perspective This is part of the foundation for the Black Taj Mahal that was never completed. It was to sit directly across the river from the white marble Taj Mahal and be the resting place of Shah Jahan. His son, Aurangzed stopped construction deeming the project too costly.
View down the side rooms in a guest house that sits to the right of the Taj Mahal - red sandstone
The Taj Mahal from the riverside. Guesthouse on the left and mosque on the right. The river floods each Spring. This was the intended site for the Black Taj Mahal.
Note the wall that secures the foundations of the Taj Mahal, as the springs monsoons bring floods. This was quiet a peaceful view and we were glad to have made the effort to experience the Taj Mahal in a different perspective.
The red sandstone Guest house was beautiful and certainly worth wandering through.

India Travels 8 - Agra and the Taj Mahal

2010-11-29T07:06:00.000-08:00

This is the first sight you see as you enter the outer gate. Christine and I both had tears in our eyes as it is truely magnificent and fills you with sublime joy.
Looks like we were alone - however there were hundreds of people there (with more to come) at 7a to see the sun rise on the fabled icon.
Inside the Taj, note the inlaid marble walls and carved marble screens.
A view from the side also taking into view the mosque to the left. Directly opposite the mosque on the other side of the Taj is a duplicate of the mosque - however it was used as a guest house. Note all the people on the top of the entrance. This is a good picture location as well as the line to enter into the Taj to view the tombs of Mumtaz and her husband Shah Jahan who built the tomb in her honor. No pictures are permitted of the tombs. They are heavily inlaid white marble as is the entire building.
More to come,
Love to all,
Scott and Christine

India Travel 7 Drive to Agra

2010-11-26T05:31:00.000-08:00

The long and crazy drive from New Delhi to Agra (Taj Mahal) The was the last policeman we saw until Agra. He was beautifully turned out and gave us a big smile. Police are not much in evidence in the countryside. We were involved in an accident on the trip, our driver Vikrum said "Police, What Police!" when Christine asked if we had to pull over to the side of the road and wait for the police. Sort it out yourselves is the rule in India

Trucks are highly decorated - all hand painted. This motorcycle driver was wearing a helment, one of the few helmets we saw. We did see as many as 4 adult males and a family of 5 on individual machines. Motorcycles are everywhere weaving in and out of traffic; a good way to get around. However, Scott (who was made to sit in the front seat) was going nuts trying not to be petrified at the speed of traffic. His right leg was stiff from "braking" for 5 hours. Vikrum started to tease Scott and told him that braking was HIS job!

The huts on the roadside are for drying & curing the cow dung/straw mixture discs used for fuel in the countryside. We saw women carrying huge bowls of dung on their head. They took it to the fields where another woman mixed and shaped the discs. Vickum told us that they do not smell when burned. Our reaction was "yeah, right!"

Can you count the people in this vehicle? It is a Tuk-Tuk, a three-wheeled vehicle that delivers any type of cargo. We saw them with as many as 16 people. The open-air top might not have been the safest seat, but probably the least "fragrant".

Yes, those are monkeys crossing the road. At least these ones were on leases, but most monkeys roam freely and have become a menace. However, as there is a specific Hindu God of Monkeys, the debate rages on how to control these revered but aggressive animals. Note the number of pedestrians on this 4-lane highway, people walk out in front of traffic constantly

That is a cobra and he really did come up out of the basket when the man began to play music

Yes, that is a cow in the middle of the road. We saw them sleeping in the road and taking up entire lanes.

A family of 6 shares the back of a tuk-tuk; she looked tired, but the father seems happy. There is a tuk-tuk coming at us on the right; you can see the size of the vehicle.

Akbar The Great's mausoleum (3rd Mogul ruler) stands in a huge garden area of 150 acres about 7 km outside of Agra. These deer were happily feeding and cattle egrets are enjoying the insects the deer flush out for them. First pastoral scene we saw all day...

The is Sikandara, Akbar's tomb in red sandstone. It took 11 years to build - highly carved and mosaic in the first 3 stores and white marble towers. Originally it had huge sandlewood doors and the roof was decorated with silver and gold, all taken by the Jats during their short rule. The upper story of the gate has a 'Naubat Khana; from where the big kettle drums were played from morning to evening to honor the dead emperor

The drive to Agra and once again our heads were on a swivel! We thought that the congestion would clear out as we left Dehli behind... Wrong! The highway system is a patchwork of roads constantly changing from 2 lanes to 4 lanes and driving through center of towns. Berms have been taken over by shopkeepers and turned into market stalls. Although the road may be in fairly good condition, the sheer number of vehicles AND animals sharing the roads made progress slow at best. Christine refused to sit in the front seat and risked certain motion sickness from 6 hours of the start-stop, start-stop method of driving.

Along the journey we were involved in a bus/4-car accident. Scott saw 2 extremely small cars driving TOWARD the bus that was just ahead of us. Scott is desperately braking (so was our driver) and Scott is saying "cars, cars coming at us." The bus was not able to stop and plowed both cars up into the median. Our car hit the back of the bus and the car behind us hit us. Apparently this is not an unusual occurance because Vikrum pulls over to the side and hops out. He inspect the metal bars installed on both ends of the cars and gets back in and drives off. Christine is concerned because the police have not come to fill out the accident report; Vikrum laughs!

5 Miles down the road is a enormous traffic jam (once again NO police). We sat in gridlock for about 1/2 hour as each car, motorcycle, bicycle, bus and truck attempts to gain an inch progress forward. Finally, a civilian comes to the middle of the congested intersection and sorts us all out. Amazing, the vast majority of the drivers were willing to follow someone else's instructions to fix the problem and get moving again.

We stop for lunch at a tacky replical of an Indian palace (think tourist trap). We approach a man sitting on the ground and he offers to make the cobra come out of the basket (for a price, to course). It was pretty interesting to witness a snake charmer; this episode is pictured above. Cannot tell you how many times we stopped for cows in the road, some cows were walking across and others were actually sleeping with all these vehicle passing by. A memorable sight was the 3 cows running fast toward us. Cows must know they have the upper hand because vehicles are scattering to get out of their way. It was utter-ly amazng sight.

As we approached the city of Agra, we saw markets selling inlaid marble and we knew the Taj Mahal was close at hand. Our hotel, The Jaypee Palace, was a large complex of beautiful buildings - conference center, restaurants, big hotel, lovely rooms, gorgeous grounds and a swimming pool. The car was again checked before we entered the compound and we were screened as well. The Indian Government takes a pro-active approach to terrorism and no one complains about excessive searches. There is an offical greeter at the door, but right behind him is a guard with a gun. We may have found Indian less that sanitary (that is another blog), but we always felt safe.

Horns are used very differently in India. If you are honked at it is to let you know that a vehicle is near you. Trucks have signs on the back that instruck "Horn Please" to make the driver aware of your presence. If you are honked at it is not an insult in any way. Vikrum gave us the rule of "Good Horn, Good Prayer, Good Luck" approach to driving. He also said there is only 1 rule to driving and that is that there are no rules...

Hope you are enjoy this travel diary of our experiences in India, Scott & Christine

India Travels 6 The Rickshaw Ride!

2010-11-21T07:15:00.000-08:00

The Rickshaw Ride In Old Delhi. Our guide for the day (Anchel) suggested this, she was just ahead of us in the orange sari. Blue tarps were noticeable here and many other areas of the country. Many of the streets are narrow and cars cannot even navigate, so the mode of transportation is rickshaw, bicycle, motorbike .....
or human powered carts. In the beginning of our trip to India, I often noted that the fashion police would be appalled by the clashing of colors and prints/plaids people wore. Didn't take long to realize that perhaps what a person had on their backs, might have been the only clothes they owned.
This is actually a market stall and these clothes were for sale. Note the framework put onto the rickshaws to enable the driver to carry more merchandise. Trash in the streets, along with the stray dogs, packs of monkeys and freely roaming cows were something we never got used to.
Just inside the gate of Jami Masjid (India's largest mosque). This is the mosque where we saw the high-ranking Iman being escorted by guards with machine guns. We had to leave our shoes ourside and wear something to cover our legs and my arms. Yes, that is Christine in a dress chosen to compliment her turquoise scarf. The group of young men to the right kept trying to sell us jewelry and other souvenirs; apparently they didn't get Scott's memo on NO MORE JEWELRY & PASHMINAS.
Scott had to wear a long skirt to cover his legs, carefully chose one to compliment his green Yuengling shirt. The sandstone & marble mosque was built in 1656 by Emperor Shah Jahan, the same ruler that directed the building of the Taj Mahal. The mosque was built on a mound and has now been completely encircled by the city of Old Delhi, which is why we had to take a rickshaw ride to view its black and white marble domes, twin minarets and sheer size
Yes, that is stray dog sleeping in the trash.
This about says it all...India was very much a humbling experience.
Our rickshaw driver with the boy who threw the stone at me. The boys hands were out because he was expecting to have them smacked by the stick in the driver's right hand. Red Fort across the street.
The spaghetti-bowl of electric wires above the narrow alleyways. This made both of us nervous and wondered how many fires this awful mess causes.
The first time in her life that Christine would not stop for a shoe store... Once again gratitude was the spirit of the day. Scott gave our drivers double their fees (the big softie)

India Travel 5 India Gate

2010-11-18T22:51:00.001-08:00

India Gate In the center of Delhi is India Gate, a massive red sandstone arch, built to commemorate the 13,516 Indian soldiers that died in WWI and those who died in the North-West Frontier Province and the Third Afghan War. Certainly similar to the "Arc-de-Triomphe" archway. Yes, that is Christine's head in the lower left.

Facing the India Gate is the sandstone canopy where a statue of King George V was install in 1936; the statue was moved in 1960.

The India Gate is also called the All India War Memorial. An Eternal Flame dedicated to the unknown soldiers burns beneath the arch.

All 13,516 name of known Indian soldiers are engraved upon this massive arch.

This Indian soldier is a member of the Air Force and he is honor guard at the eternal flame. Other soldiers were outside and we spoke at length to one, that is when he was chasing children away from getting too close.

India Travel 4 Ghandi

2010-11-18T22:01:00.000-08:00

We are sitting on the bench where Gandhi gave audiences. The site guard came over and politely ask us to GET UP before his boss came back and yelled at HIM. As I said, the Indians are unfailing polite, even if you are the one who is offensive.

These are Ghandi's only worldly possessions. Please note the stone on the lower right, it was used for washing his skin. Quite a humbling experience.
The sleeping room in the complex where Gandi lived. The complex was built in the colonial bungalow style and owned by the Birla family, the same family that built the temple we visited earlier in the morning. Gandi agreed to inaugurate the temple on the condition that all strata of society be allowed to enter and worship. He felt that to shake off the yoke of Brittish rule was irrelevant if the Indian Nation was oppressive of their own citizens.

This huge spinning wheel was right outside the bedroom & sitting room that Gandhi occupied. It was one of many that Gandhi used in the complex, as he felt that people needed to be taught skills to take care of themselves. I promptly stubbed my toe on the back support and thought of my father calling me "Calamity Jane"

White Marble memory of the Father of the Nation. "Non-violence is the pitting of one's whole soul against the will of the tyrant... it is then possible for the single individual to defy the might of an unjust empire."

The museum complex was fascinating, educational and thought provoking. We were emotional drawn into the experience and found ourselves wanting more. Our dear friends Vickie and Julie were so close in spirit at this complex.

India Travel 3 Qutb Minar

2010-11-18T20:21:00.000-08:00

In the large Mehrauli Complex are many temples, tombs, and a stepwell. This archway, like most, is decorated with inscriptions from the Koran

As a UNESCO World heritage site, there are pieces of demolished buildings just placed here and there. This was from a Hindu temple. Note that the faces have been obliterated because in the Islamic faith no animals can be pictured, this was noticed many times throughout our visit.
Scott named her the Goddess of Intestinal Problems.

View as you enter the complex: The Iron Pillar. This 4th century pillar, originally made as a flagstaff in Vishnu's honor, is a tribute to ancient Indian metallurgy

Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and at the end of the day, you still clearly see the red powder of my blessing at the temple early that morning. I have been blessed!

Looking up the Qutb Minar. Minar is Arabic for pole or axis There are 5 levels of red sandstone decorated with geometic designs and quranic verses.

Qutb Minar. India's highest single tower, marked the site of the first Muslim Kingdom in North India, begun in 1193

Native green parakeet perching on the side of a mosque. They fly freely and squak constantly - beautiful site and sound!

The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Hindu motifes, such as bells and garlands, are clearly visible on the pillars of this mosque.

Qutb Minar viewed through the ruins.

One of the many tombs in the complex, this one has lost the covering dome, but retains the red sandstone inscriptions and curved arches.

This site was perhaps one of our most enjoyed in Delhi. It was an invitation to explore. Even with the ever present crowds we were able to move about freely.

India Travel 2 Delhi

2010-11-18T00:19:00.001-08:00

Christine and I enjoying a drink outside during our first night in Delhi. Note strung marigold necklaces - also a tradition of Diwali. We saw these necklaces on people, statues, buildings & vehicles!( see below - this picture is out of order). The fireworks and explosions throughout the city were overwhelming - more smoke to an already smoggy environment.

The door where Ghandi left a meeting to go pray. - His last footsteps are raised above the walk and continue down the path to where he was martyered. We were told not to walk on his steps.

Christine with our guide - the small sheltered area just to the left of center is where he was killed. This complex was well maintained and featured a modern interactive museum.

In Agra and the traditional greeting of "Numaskar". Indians are unfailing polite from guides to drivers, hotel employees to servers; we were always greeted with a smile of welcome. We were told many times that we were their guests and that they were at our service. Our personal driver Vikmar never failed to ask how we had slept, how we felt and how else he could make our trip more pleasurable. Most jobs are held by men even in housekeeping.

Our first night in Delhi was also the first night of Diwali or the Hindu Festival of Lights where "Crackers" and fireworks are exploded throughout the city. Pictured above is colored rice display on the floor of Le Meridan hotel in celebration of Diwali; lit candles throughout the hotel displays were quite a surprise. Wondered how my father (the Fire Chief) would have reacted.

Hi All,

Sorry this is a little out of order. I'll let Christine take over now and just write her comments of Delhi and we can add pictures later.

Sat, 6 November. Let me begin with the statement that India is a 360 degree experience! It is a cacaphony of sights, sounds, smells and emotions. Delhi is the capital: extremely crowded, extremely dirty and extremely interesting. We visited the India Gate, a 42 mtr high monument to the 13,516 Indian soldiers that lost their lives in WWI. All of their names are inscribed on this white sandstone "arch-de-triomphe" style archway. The honor guard on duty that day were of the Indian Air Force and rotates daily through the three military services.

The Hindu temple Lakshmi Narayan Mandir was an early stop. Marble construction with ochre and maroon spires was built in 1938 by the same industrialist that owned the complex where Ghandi lived. This temple was one of the earliest Indian temples build without caste restrictions. We slipped off our shoes at the entrance and received blessings with red powder. Walking thru the temple, our guide patiently explained the Hindu gods & godesses while we marveled at the paintings, statues and worshippers. One mother placed her baby face down on the marble in requests for special blessings.

The Mosque Jama Masjid in Old Delhi is the largest in India with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000. Scott had to wear a skirt to cover his legs and I was given a colorful robe for exploring the red sandstone mosques 3 great gates and towering marble minarets. Upon leaving the mosque, we noticed an Iman being escorted by two submachine weilding guards. We were told that two tourists were killed at the mosque just before the Commonwealth Games.

The somber mood was broken by our crazy rickshaw ride throughout the poor marketplaces of Old Delhi. We observed: street dogs everywhere (even one sleeping on top of a car), overhead wiring that looked like a bowl of dirty linguini, wood carving shops, food being prepared in huge vats of oil, throngs of people and garbage in the gutters/sidewalks, open public toilets with privacy screens and small Hindu & Seik temples. Oddest occurance was adolescent boy throwing something that glanced off Scott and hitting me in the arm. Our rickshaw drivers was incensed & was prepared to beat the child with a stick. Very odd...

The last residence of Ghandi was a highlight! This complex is beautifully conserved. We were able to walk beside Ghandi's last footsteps, see many of his spinning wheels, sat on the bench were he gave audiences. A surprise was the glass enclosed case of Ghandi' earthly possessions: his eyeglasses, 2 forks, 2 spoons, 1 knife and a rock. He used the rock to wash himself! Interesting and educational. Unfortunately our visiting president missed this site...

A drive by of the presidential Palace: NO STOPPING was permitted. We were interested to note the Amerian flags being hoisted many places throughout the city.

However, WE were barred from visiting Humayun Tomb because it was closed for US president Obama's visit the next day. We were not pleased!

Final site of the day was the Mehrauli Archaeological Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). This area features Qutab Minar - India's highest single tower at 234 ft celebrates the begin of Mogul (Islamic) rule. The tower is 5 levels high, begun in 1193, completely hand carved and a wonder to the eyes AND it doesn't lean! The complex also has tombs, a mosque, ancient well and a gateway to the complex that is the earliest building in India to employ the arched principal of Islamic construction.

After a long day of walking, dodging cows and people, we were ready for a beer and some dinner at the hotel. Tomorrow was the long drive to Agra.

Observations of the day: Georgous Green Parakeets flying freely about, Cows, Dogs & Monkeys were also everywhere, the air pollution was quite noticeable, security was at high levels with closed circuit TV cameras on many bldgs and elec scanners at hotels. We also discovered Punjab brewed Kingfisher Beer and although a lager, it became our beer of choice throughout the vacation.

Off to the room to wash off the dirt of the day and ready ourselves for the drive to Agra.

Love to all,

Scott and Christine

India Travels 1 Delhi

2010-11-17T22:30:00.000-08:00

Hindu Temple - It was sureal, peaceful and awe inspiring.

We took a bicycle rickshaw ride thru Old Delhi. The streets are very narrow, crowded, filthy and the electrical system is cobbled together inviting a fire at every turn. It was facinating as well as depressing. Yet people thrive here.

The steps to the Jama Masjid Mosque - I had to wear a "dress" to cover my legs where Christine had to wear a one piece long "shirt". Shoes were not permitted - you pay a guy to "guard" your shoes - absurd. As we were leaving the Iman was escorted up the steps by 2 armed police carrying sub-machine guns.

India Gate - war memorial w/ 13,510 names of those lost during WWI - you can see the Presidential Palace in the arch in the distance - President Obama was to arrive the next day - we got out of town.

Hi All,

18 November 2010

Our trip was wonderful and unfortunately sickening - yes we both got the "Dehli Belly" after about a week of travels - but luckily this came after we saw the Taj Mahal which we both agree was the highlite of the trip.

We will break this trip down into bits and bites so as to not bore you completely.

Please enjoy.

Vote !

2010-10-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

Exercizing our right.

Hi All,

28 October 2010

Just a reminder Voting Can Be Fun ! - especially over a cold beer in a Muscat bar.

I'm willing to bet that we are the only people in Harrison County who mailed their ballots in from Oman.

Remember to get out the vote next Tuesday, 2 November. If we can do it from 7000+ miles away, I don't want to hear any whinging about politics if you fail to vote. You'll have had your chance and squandered it.

Love to all,

Christine and Scott

Beachcombing

2010-10-22T18:12:00.000-07:00

Beachcombing - I found a decent time for the mile swim !

I tagged myself in the photo - but it may be hard to see. - If you click on the picture it will bring up a larger version. I'm directly in front (just off his shoulder to the left) of the guy in the red and black body suit in the back row right below the guy in the white shirt/blue shorts behind the railing.

You can just make out my face with the look of terror on it.

Hi All,

23 October 2010

As many of you know, I participated in the Abu Dhabi Mile Swim a week ago. The official times were released this past week and here are the results.

There were a 157 men and 46 women for a total of 203 swimmers.

My time was 28:22.

I placed 61st. This put me at the top 38.8% for the men or 30% over all.

I'm off to go swim in the ocean this morning with a group I met two weeks ago which will help with my navigation when swimming in the ocean for future races. (Remember there are no lane lines and it's easy to get off course.)

Thanks for all the support .

Love to all,

Scott

Getting a Visa to India

2010-10-19T18:47:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
20 October 2010

As many of you know we are preparing to travel to India for 11 days. We fly into Delhi where we will spend 2 days then travel by car to Agra where the Taj Mahal is located. After 3 days we travel to Jaipur for 2 days. From there we fly to Goa for a 4 day all inclusive beach resort relaxation time. I am positive we will have hundreds of pictures to wade through and blog about however, getting there is 1/2 the trick.

I spent weeks on line researching travel offers and mulling over the itinerary and finaly chose the one above. Then I had to book flights to/from India. This set the dates and then put into motion the travel agent who worked the hotels and internal travel arrangements. I then went on line and got the information and forms on location of the visa office. I had all the forms ready for Christine and I when she arrived.

After our Oman trip, I was off the entire week and planned on this as one of our activities. I'll let Christine take over now as she tells the story so well.

Observation: I you want to learn patience, move to this part of the world. To visit most forgein countries you have to obtain a visa (translation: if patience is a virtue - I'm gonna get sainthood!)

Scott and I finally find the Indian documents building, it like many buildings in this area could use some good signage. Find the correct room and it is full of people - some sitting and many standing. The idea of lining up and waiting to take your turn is "foreign" (seriously, no pun intended). We work out way to the front of the "going to Indian for a visit" desk and I thank goodness that we were not there for work visas. Naturally we didn't have ALL the forms necesary and were given additional forms and gestured to go out into the hall. In the hall is 1 table, a few chairs and tons of people - no pens either). Forms need where were are staying, what we are visiting, our travel agency, passport info and our parents names (parents names??? what the heck for?)

We complete the forms and return the the even-more crowded room. Lines still seem to be optional and now only 1 employee for both visitors visas and work visas. (Did I mention that daily bathing also seems to be optional) A Local steps right in front of Scott and Scott tells him in no uncertain terms "I WAS HERE FIRST!" He replies "no problem" and steps back into the sea of humanity. Our turns comes and we are asked more questions and told to go to the room across the hall and (you guessed it) wait again for our interview with another gov't employee.

Enter next room and take a number (think like at the bakery). We found seats (a bonus) and Scott pulls out his phone and looks real busy. I realize that he is playing a game so look at my new phone... only one game and it involves moving a snake, which reminds me of etch-a-sketch. This game holds my attention for 5 minutes. Minewhile, in walks a woman completely covered in black (I'm used to this by now). She takes her number and immediately walks over to the interviewer. She reaches across two people who had patiently waited their turn (maybe their phone had better games?) and thrusts the number into the interviewer's face. The entire room is now watching to see how he is going to handle this situation. We breath a sign of relief when she is told to "take a seat". Grumbling fills the air and she walks out. For the next half hour, I read propaganda regarding the upcoming Commonwealth Games and India's modern economy. Abaya woman alternates pacing & sitting while grumbling as my dear husband is engrossed by his phone!

Finally our turn arrives, Hooray! Our papers are checked, our info keyed into the computer and then the moment of decision: can I hand over my passport to an official of the Indian Govt? I am assured that it will be delivered with Scott's to Mafraq Hospital by courier in 3 days. (I had the same anxiey attack as when I handed Wes all of HIS Christmas ornaments). "Enshallah - Arabic for "God illing" crosses my mind. Scott pries the passport out of my hands (sure fine for him as he has UAE National Identity Card and UAE Driver's License). I decided that once I'm safely back to the villa I'm not leaving until I get my passport back. Scott is amused by my discomfort, but at least he has stopped playing backgammon on his phone...

After two hours at the Documents Building, we leave the still-grumbling woman and step out into the 108 degrees. Time to find some lunch; I drowned my anxieties in hummus & fresh vegtables!

Two lessons: patience and trust. The passports were delivered to Scott's office the next day and Wes took good care of his ornaments.

Love to all,
Christine and Scott

She Got His Goat

2010-10-19T02:34:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is a baby goat, no "kidding" Scott jumped back and shrieked when he saw the head in with the bag of meat. But one does wonder: how does one actually acquire a newly slaughtered baby goat?

Looks like a character from a Star Wars Bar Scene movie.

"Here's Looking At You Kid" You never know when a great movie line is going to be perfect!

Who looks more surprised? We couldn't stop laughing until....

Dinner is served! So much food that we had to borrow our neighbors' roasting pan and this beautiful serving platter. Scott used practically every pot and cooking utensil we own.

Hi all,

19 October 2010

Certain that you are either really interested in how one gets a goat or you stopped looking after the first picture. Scott's Emirati assistant, Noora, has a farm near Al Ain (oasis and birthplace of the 1st ruler of UAE Sheik Zayed). Well, Scott is at work and Noora, his purchasing manager, tells him that her driver has gone down to the farm for a baby goat and taken it to the slaughter house. All animals for consumption in UAE are slaughtered according to Islamic regulations. We wondered exactly what Noora was going to bring, but decided to cross that bridge when we came to it.

7:00 PM and Noora drives up the the villa. She gives Scott a large box with white plastic bags inside. 7:15 PM and Scott is putting the goat meat into zip lock bags (I'm handing him bags and refusing to touch this meat) 7:20 PM and Scott yelps as he jumps back 3 feet. Yes, you saw it: a skinned, baby goat's head with eyes still in the sockets. Scott tells me that I'd better not look at it, so now I have to see what freaked him out. I look and run for the camera and say "We have to blog this and I'm not kidding" Warning: the first of many puns...

Okay Billy, one asks gruffly, so how does one proceed with cooking a goat? You google recipes for young lamb, well, how difficult could this be... I mean, who is kidding who here?

Two recipes were adapted, one from Julia Child's Beef Bourguignonne and an Epicurious Roasted Leg of Lamb for those shanks visible in the 1st picture . Yesterday Scott came home early to start cooking; I was sous chef and pot washer. Brown meat, stir, chop vegtables, add wine, run for red onions, wash up a bit. 2 hours later we are at the pool with Scott doing his daily laps and I'm sunning myself while the goat roasts in separate pans. Back home to make the basmanti rice with vegtables and "Arabic Spices" and then carry it all across the street.

8:00 PM sitting at Chris & Suzanna's table toasting Scott for a job brilliantly done! Chris is also an excellent cook and was quite complimentary. He'd seen the goat head the night before and wasn't certain Scott could pull it off. ( nor was he looking forward to the meal in particular) Suzanna kept some meat and rice for Taavi (1 y/o son), indicative of her reaction.

We feasted for several hours and enjoyed a bit of wine; cheese & crackers with a lovely port for dessert. Got back across the street way too late with clean up left for today and fond memories of another evening spent with our neighbors and friends. So who got whose goat?

Hope you enjoyed this episode of "Scott & Christine's Adventures in Abu Dhabi". Any guesses on what we did with the goat's head?
Yes you guessed it - trash can. When Scott told Noora about the excellent meal, she particularly asked about the head - he feared she would be disappointed that we had tossed it - but she said it is tradition that you include the head to show that the meat is fresh. She also said that she throws her's out as well but added that her grandmother cooks and eats the contents. Maybe in this culture but not in ours !

Love to all

Scott and Christine

More Pictures From Oman

2010-10-18T18:47:00.000-07:00

The Nizwa Souq - locally crafted goods include silver jewelery, khanjars (curved Omani dagger), copperwork, weaving, fruits, vegtables, fish, meat all available. Livestock sales are held weekly - must be quite the experience. Unfortunately the souq was closed, translate: afternoon prayers followed by a nap during the brutally hot hours of the day. Some shopkeepers like the one above leave their wares out in the walled & grandly gated area without concern for theft. When we left here, we continued our winding & beautiful drive thru the Hajar Mtn. Range. We also missed seeing the Fort which was completed in 1668. We need to return...

Ancient watchtower that has been surrounded by the town of Muscat. It was right across the street from the souq - note the telephone wires at lower left.

This huge rock was visible just off our hotel's beach area. It was lovely beach, with very gradual depth increase and soft sand bottom. Scott was amazed that I beat him into the deeper water AND stayed a long time. Same beach as we watched the fishermen with the trucks to pull in the nets, just another interesting experience.

Yet another watchtower, but note the difference in the terrain as this one was out in the Hajar Mtn. Range. The towers run along the range like a string of beads.

View driving thru capital of Muscat. The skies and the seas really are this blue and few clouds. It is quite green in the larger urban areas, where water is more plentiful and the parkways are planted with fabulous blooms shrubs and trees. We hope you've enjoyed the show.

Sightseeing in Muscat

2010-10-17T05:46:00.000-07:00

One of the many mosques in Oman, some opulent, some small and humble, but everywhere.

Old meets new: one of the many watchtowers that dot the ridges along the coast. Oman has an ancient seafaring and trade route history. You will see concrete structures butting against rock or brick structures, but note architectural embellishments thanks to the Moguls influence

Ancient fort beside concrete apartment building with satellite dish on the roof - typical.

Giant incense burner in a park along the corniche; celebrates Oman's ancient spice trade.

Best for last: An American Frigate came into port the night before. We met 6 men from their crew at our hotel pool (the USS Kauffman FFG-59).

Hi All,

18 October 2010

Oman is beautiful in a austere and magnificent way. Soaring mountain ranges, aqua blue waters and beautiful beaches, interesting architecture (both ancient and new), very friendly locals and our hotel was lovely. The 5-hour drive began with a stop at the border in Al Ain, where we had to purchase exit visas and then into Oman, where we had to purchase visitors visas. Wait at counters t0 show our passports, fill out forms, pay and wait some more before cleared thru - reverse this on the way back (except for the fees on way out are minimal).

We both enjoyed the drive but were happy to get to the Intercontinental and change into swim suits. Scott did his mandatory 2,000 meters in the lovely lap pool and then we went down to the beach and swim in the clear gulf waters. Then we watched fishermen haul in their catch; the entire episode took 12 men, 2 trucks and lasted over 2 hours. So interesting that we couldn't leave and were rewarded to see a large ray being hauled out of the net and onto the beach where it would soon be on the way to the fish market.

We had lovely meals at Trader Vic's (my yellow-fin tuna was so fabulous that we figured out the recipe as we ate and have enjoyed it twice at home since) and an Italian restaurant both a short walk away from the hotel. We met a Navy SEAL at the hotel and enjoyed drinks & war stories. He was obviously was an American (was it the Cubs t-shirt) and also talked at length (with me, is there ever a "short" conversation) with 6 sailors from the USS Kaufmann - Navy Frigate #59. I must tell you that when we rounded the corner and I saw OUR ship with OUR flag, well, it brought tears of joy and pride to Scott and I.

Our drive back took us a different route. We drove back about two hundred miles thru the most beautiful mountain ranges and stopped at a very historic town to visit their famous souq. Well, did not take into account that the inner areas (translate: not that many tourists visit) close up during the mid-day for prayers and sleeping off huge noon meals and to escape the heat! We stopped an Omani man for directions and he welcomed us to his country and invited us to his home for coffee and this is typical Hospitality is a hallmark of Arab countries, as is their delicious coffee. Considering that the entire town was closed, we should have gone... It was okay, because back to the beautiful drive. Stark, Austere, Magnifient were all words that describe Oman's mountains and hope to see more as we explore the vastly different regions while we enjoy our grand adventure.
Scott and I both thoroughly enjoyed Oman despite the heat (of course if you want to experience anything, you have to go outside!) We are so blessed to be able to experience so many different areas and cultures and people. We are learning to be adaptable and enjoy the celebrate the differences. Love to you, Christine and Scott

The Muscat Souq ( Marketplace)

2010-10-16T17:35:00.000-07:00

One of the many narrow streets in the labyrinth that comprises the Souq - We did wander around "lost" in the atmosphere, dust and heat!

Typical jewelry display, all jumbled together and you must bargain for everything. Be prepared to walk away as we did, because there will be many more shops.

This woman certainly has a good head on her shoulders. The streets are all very narrow because this is a very old marketplace. Everything must be carried by hand, head, or...

handcart. This older gentleman looked to be pulling a huge load, but as he passed, we noted that 2 younger men were pushing to help out. Vehicles are only on the outskirts of this huge marketplace and we were wondering how so much merchandise was moved around: an ancient version of planes, trains and automobiles

Typical souvenir shop of jewelry, pottery, metals and pashminas.

Hi All,

17 October 2010

Scott has given me the assignment to blog the Oman Souq, as I've more shopping experience in general. This souq is very old and quite large labyrinth of narrow streets cobbled together. No master plan is evident, therefore quite confusing as streets and even narrower alleyways wind and switchback on themselves. The building material ranges from baked brick to concrete and is partially open air, very dim and dusty and quite warm! Shopkeepers call to you as you approach to advertise their specialty. Pashminas, Perfumes, Incense, Souvenirs, Clothing, Cookware, Men's Headcoverings, Beauty Supplies, Housewares and of course Omani Silver and Gold bid for your attention in a cacaphony of sights, smells and sounds.

We arrived in downtown Muttrah, a district of the ancient capital of Muscat in the late morning. Walking along the corniche next to the sea harbor we could see the Sultan of Oman's huge "yacht" (Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous). It is the third largest private yacht in the world. There are lots of shops along the corniche and full of activity but fewer shoppers evident in the souq area. Scott explained that the locals do not venture out during the heat of the day (smart folks!), preferring to enjoy the cooler night air. Ahh, we were marked as tourists without even opening our mouths... Time to enter one of the many entrances to the souq.

From the moment you enter this puzzle of shops you are bombarded with shop owners attempting to lure you into their shop & it is no matter that the guy next door is selling the exact same wares. Pashminas were thrust towards me and the Omani men's hat was placed (several times) upon our not-so-patient Scott. One quickly learns to just keep walking and ignore the persistent shopowners. Exotic frankensence (grown in Oman's hills) is offered in many shops along with a dizzing array of spices. Pashminas, pashminas and more pashminas and I was strictly forbidden to purchase even one more. It was pure torture to drive 5 hours and not buy more than a sprite to quench our thirst and black bobby pins to keep my hair out of my eyes.

The attempt to bargain for a pair of silver earrings (cause I desperately need another pair of earrings) or the traditional Omani dagger were a dismal failure. Nothing is priced! You asked the shopkeeper and he tells you an amount; it is mandatory to counter offer... Scott working in purchasing for 30 years and my experience as a buyer for Ozzie's has made us tough bargainers. It was necessary to walk away when our last counteroffers were turned down, but it was a rich cultural experience. After finding our way out of the souq and into the A/C of our car it was on to a little sightseeing, watch for the next posting. Love, Christine and Scott

The Abu Dhabi Mile

2010-10-16T05:56:00.000-07:00

No day at the Beach - Here I am running for the finish line.

Ranier and I with our T-Shirts following the race. Christine looking good.

Ranier and Ewald preparing to get his cap on - it was a real struggle

Pepan and Leonard - Marlene and Ranier's tw other boys enjoying the sand.

Hi All,

Many of you know that I have been swimming for health and weight reduction purposes and one of the motivators was the announcement about 2 months ago of the first ever Abu Dhabi Swimming Festival which included the Waha Capital Mile. The swim was held at the Corniche Beach. The race went off at 7a.m. There were 180+ male swimmers (females left 5 minutes later). Christine says I came in somewhere between 35 - 50th. I was very pleased with my time- 28:27 as I had timed myself in the pool at 35 minutes. Winning time was 17+ min. (the same guy also won the other big race of the day - a 700 meter swim - in fact the same woman who won the mile in 21 + min also won the womans 700 meter .

First place for the Mile was 5000AED or about $1400 US and for the 700 meter was 2 business class tickets to Europe.

I obviously didn't have any expectations of winning but made the suggestion that there be age group winners - not for the prize - but it would give you a better idea where you fit in with your peers. Well Christine snared the event organizer and told him the same and we saw him later and he said that next year this would occur. - So now I have even more motivation to get out there and keep my daily routine up.

The biggest problem with open water swimming is swimming in the right direction. In a pool you subconsiously make the adjustments to keep in a straight line, in the ocean - you can barely see and as with all swimmers one arm is stronger than the other - for me it's my right arm - so I am constantly veering off to the left. Then when you try to correct, you can't see who is on your right - and you usually run into the guy next to you. I was bumped and did the bumping through-0ut the race.

My friend Ranier - from Holland - rode down with Christine and I so that his wife Marlene and 3 boys could come in a little later - their son Ewald (not how it's spelled but how it sounds) who is 11 also swam in one of the many other events they held. Ranier came in 3 seconds behind me - I was so pleased to beat him - he is a Tri-Athlete and is the one who has taken me to another weekly open water swim event. They are a wonder family and we enjoy their company very much.

We left the beach at 11a and returned home to shower and rest. We then celebrated Christine's birthday by going to a Brazilian restaurant at the Intercontinental Hotel where we ate our fill of wonderful roasted meats sliced from the spit. Various cuts of duck, beef, lamb, chicken, sausages and grilled pineapple. We enjoyed a bottle of sparking wine and toasted our new lives and all of our adventurs. The dinner ended with a surprise chocolate tort with Happy Birthday written in chocolate on the plate. All and All - a Wonderful and Memorable Day!

Love to all, Scott and Christine

Pictures from Welcoming Party

2010-10-03T20:44:00.000-07:00

Such a lovely woman I'm luckily married to.

Suzanna (Finland) and her husband Chris from the UK. Chris is the CFO of E-Ships.

They are my closest friends and live right across the street.

Sarah and Kevin - both from London our neighbors and friends. They both work for a law office in Abu Dhabi. Kevin in the Human Resources Dept and Lisa as a Legal Secretary.

Here's Pam from North Canton, Ohio and Ross from Australia. Ross works at SEHA (the governing body which controls Mafraq Hospital) in the IT dept. Ross' wife Lisa was working on her college classes and fell asleep and never made the party !

The E-Ship Boys.

Graham from Scotland - Fleet Captain, Chris from London - CFO, David from the UK, Fleet Inspector and Hendrik from the Netherlands - Fleet Inspector.

Graham's wife Liz was a few doors down at Glen and Claire's place acting as babysitter. She arrived about an hour later and was in desperate need of wine in copious amounts.
David's wife Lisa arrived from the UK literally hours before the party with their two young sons- she never made it to the party as she was unconscience.

Welcome Party

2010-10-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

Glen and Claire from the UK. Glen works for a company which supplies oil well platforms.Christine with Paul and Karen from the UK. Paul works for the UAE Navy as as Weapons expert.

Martin and Paula from the UK with Annapolis napkin. Martin taught Navigation at the Academy and is a retired Royal Navy Captian who is instructing the UAE Navy.

Erico and George from Hungary. George is Christine's orthopedic surgeon who did her first and will be doing her second carpal tunnel surgery after our trip to India in November. In the background is Sarah and Kevin, our next door neighbors from the UK.

Katherine (UK) and her husband Hendrik from the Netherlands. Hendrik works or E- Ships as an inspector of the fleet. In the background is Pam - North Canton Ohio. Pam works at Mafraq in Patient Billing or what we refer to as Revenue Cycle.

Hi All,

Christine and I just returned from a weekend trip to Muscat, Oman of which I will blog about later. However I need to get caught up on the happenings of the past 2 weeks since her arrival.

The first week was a whirlwind of sleep deprivation as Christine got her body clock in line with the local time. She had a particularly hard time this time for some reason . We both surmise it was stress induced as unlike the past, it was a "vacation" but this time there is no return ticket.

The stress was allieved on Friday the 24th when the party went on beautifully. The original invitations had the party from 6 - 8p for snack and drinks. All the guests brought a snack or a bottle of wine and some brought flowers. I quickly applied a post it note on the wall clock that read "Clock Broken - Party On". The last guests departed at midnight.

Love to all,

Scott and Christine

Together Again

2010-09-20T19:36:00.000-07:00

Hi all,
Christine arrived last night. Returned her to her new home where we enjoyed shrimp cocktail, a variety of cheeses, fresh figs and a wonderful glass of merlot. We also toasted out 29th wedding anniversary (purposely planned for this arrival date).
To welcome Christine to Abu Dhabi, I have organized a party for her on Friday evening with about 25 people invited. Most Christine has met before but there will be some new faces.
We are both excited to be back together again and are looking forward to our new adventures.
More to come.
Love to all,
Scott and Christine
(gee it feels good to type her name next to mine again)

Award Winner

2010-07-27T23:38:00.000-07:00

John Nickens, Darshak and I with our medals.

John and I

Darshak and John

Hi All,

Wednesday, 28 July 2008

Last week at the Leadership Council (monthly meeting of all department heads) Myself and fellow employee Darshak Shah (Finance) were awarded the "Top Performer's Club" medal. This is a new team building recognition program initiated by the President and CEO, John Nickens. Darshak and I were the first "winners" of this award.

Needless to say, I was shocked, humbled and honored to have been presented with the award. Here is the nomination for which I was chosen:

I would like to nominate Scott Morrow as a Top Performer. He is always considerate and professional with colleagues and customers, despite the pressure of his department.
Scott is always honest and realistic with timescales, and since his arrival, there has been a marked improvement in the customer service attitude of others in the purchasing team.
Purchasing is one department which is often overlooked, but ultimately supports every aspect of the hospital’s function, and deserves to be recognised.
I hope that you will reward Scott as a member of the Top Performers Club for his contribution to Mafraq Hospital.
Thank you

You would have thought they were talking about someone else- I did when John was reading the nomination before announcing my name. I know I was blushing. It's not too often you get to toot you're own horn - but there you have it.

Before you ask - Nothing comes with the award except the medal and the recognition of having been awarded it.

Love to all,

Scott

Weekend Respite

2010-07-10T05:52:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
Saturday, 10 July 2010
My last blog had the temps at 111F last Thursday that changed to 118F. It's officially HOT.

I had 3 friends over for dinner on Thursday eve. Grilled split chicken halves that were marinated for a day in Mojito marinade - MMmmm good - lime and orange juice, garlic, onion, olive oil, cummin, salt and pepper (it's in the Epicurious.com web site) It's a winner. Cooked them slowly over indirect heat for a few hours and the meat was falling off the bone succulent. That with home made potato salad and green beans. All was well received.
Went to the pool both yesterday and today for a few hour - got a slight burn - nothing really but my face is all red and hot feeling.
The big news this week was the announcement that my boss, the CFO, is quiting and will be gone in 90 days. Guess I'll have to train a new boss soon. Says he's leaving the country - but rumors abound that he will go work for the "parent company" that oversee's the 8 government hospitals here - it remains to be seen.
Alex will be starting his class on Monday - however we have not heard from him since his arrival in Quantico. You know those Marines - they will fill your time. Christine is going to call him today and hopefully get an update.
Other than that, It's back to work tomorrow and keeping cool.
Love to all,
Scott

Temps are rising

2010-07-05T06:54:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
5 July , Monday

This morning at 6a temp 93F at 4p 111.3 F - It's starting to get hot Humidity is in the 70-80% range as well.
Got home went swimming and back home to cool A/C.
Not much to tell except our son Alex reports to Quanitco tomorrow to start 6 months of training at The Basic School.
Wes just turned 26 and is on a 2 week vacation for a plant shutdown and as I've heard it - will be working on the line soon instead of picking pre-assembled parts for the Ford F150. He's excited.
Christine arrives in 77 days
Love to all
Scott

Pictures 5

2010-07-02T20:33:00.000-07:00

Uncle Art and Dad in the stands at the Color Parade.

Alex and Brandon at the Wedding Rehearsal dinner
.

Christine at Bilger's Gate - This gate is locked and only opened when someone is dismissed from the Academy from which they must exit. In the movie "Patriot Games" Harrison Ford is seen exiting the Yard through this gate just prior to the scene in which he is nearly killed by the IRA gunman. Christine has stood in the location on the street and remarked many times - Jack Ryan was here ! Bilge is the waste water pumped out of a ship where seepage has collected, therefore, exiting thru Bilger's Gate is seen as a mark of shame and dishonor.

The Marine Corps Museum near Quantico Va.

A realistic display inside the rotunda at the USMC Museum

Pictures 4

2010-07-02T20:26:00.001-07:00

Lex and Michael showing their class rings.

Christine and Alex at the Graduation Ball

Samantha, Alex, Kelsey, Michael and Meghan

The graduates finally out of uniform w/ friends and family.

Joe and Anne with Alex

Fine Trip - Part 7

2010-06-30T23:27:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
1 July 2010

I'm on a roll so I'll keep on blogging.

13 June 2010, Sunday
Plans had been made, hotel rooms booked and directions verified. Ann, Dave, Christine and I are off to Cleveland to visit the Rock & Roll Museum and Hall of Fame. I had been itching to go even before I left for the UAE but just couldn't get schedules coordinated. Now that Ann is on summer vacation from her teacher's assistant job and Dave has retired, there wasn't anything holding us back. This being my third visit, I acted as the tour guide but was still giddy with excitement knowing how much Dave would enjoy it.
We arrived in Cleveland, got to our hotel and into our rooms. We found a place to relax and have a few beers which we did after taking in a park. We returned to our rooms then went out for dinner at Olive Garden. Christine had the waitress taking the display china, used as decorations, off the walls and shelves, which she showed her up close. We told her why we were in town and she told us that Robbie Kreiger and Ray Manzarek of the Door's - her favorite band - had also been in a while back. She first recognized them from Ray's voice. Frankie Avalon has made frequent appearances at that Olive Garden as well. Needless to say, the waitress received a healthy tip for her service and hospitality. It was off to bed as the next day would be a long one.

14 June 2010
Monday
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Following a breakfast at the hotel, we proceeded to downtown Cleveland in a huge rainstorm. Luckily the Garmin knew the way and all I had to do was to keep my eye out for morning traffic. Suddenly the Garmin decided to take me a way which was not what I was accustomed to- right thru downtown Cleveland. - Oh well, we still followed it. The rain stopped and we got to see some goomer wearing a bright red T, with his pants securely fastened at about nipple height, proclaiming his love of the Cleveland Indians. - What a sight. We arrived and found parking and we walked down to the Museum. Not knowing the traffic or the distances, we were a little early but we hung outside and got in line as the 10a opening time approached.
The doors opened and as we queued up to pay our admission, the sense of wow was already in the air. Huge concert stage display pieces hang from the ceiling, and as we take the escalator to the lower level - where you enter - guitars are in display cases and cars/ motorcycles are parked for viewing. If you have been there , you know what I mean, if you haven't, then you are missing out on a truly wonderful experience. Your formative years come rushing back to you with sight and sound reminders of the music we grew up with. Janis Joplin's glasses, Eric Clapton's white suit and Martin guitar - which is the same make/model (except for the tuning head layout) as Dave's guitar- (Dave's is nicer) - Mick Jagger's white jumpsuit with the grommet holes - several of Jimi Hendrix's flamboyant outfits - hand written lyrics by John Lennon. The list goes on. You depart the lower level and take a escalator to the 2nd floor where more memorabilia overwhelms you - several rough draft pages of Hunter S. Thompson's " Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" , The first issue of The Rolling Stone with John Lennon on the cover. From there it's up to the third level - where I finally run into Christine, Ann and Dave having been separated since soon after arrival. We have a bit of lunch at the in house snack area and then queue up for the Hall of Fame section. A video - now 40 minutes long - goes year by year- reviewing the inductees visually while playing the music which got them there. There is no narrator, just the music. You exit on the 4th level after you leave the HoF video where you can listen to all of the HoF members music from several touch screen kiosks.
The 5th and 6th levels are reserved for traveling displays. This time it was Bruce Springsteen.
We tour these two floors and decide to meet in the gift shop on the 1st floor. As we are choosing memento's of our visit, the announcement comes overhead that the museum will be closing in 15 minutes at 5p. - We had been there for 7 hours and left much to be seen. You get overdosed with information and any one trip is not enough.
We make our way back to the car and after clearing some evening rush hour traffic, we are on our way back home. A quick side trip with a right hand turn from the far left hand lane across 5 lanes of traffic at the red light and a vicious stare from one of the occupants got us some Starbucks coffee for the initial portion of the ride. We passed through Columbus and stopped for dinner. The remaining ride home consisted of a murderous thunderstorm with copious amount of lightning as we passed through Cincinnati. We learned the next morning that Big Butter Jesus - a 60 foot tall styrofoam sculpture of Jesus from the chest up was struck by lightening and burned to the ground. I guess Jesus must have made his father mad as he smote him ! Go to Heywood Banks - Big Butter Jesus on YouTube to see this amazing - now destroyed icon. You will laugh yourself silly. It was a wild ride. We arrived around 2a safe and sound.

15 June, 2010
The End is Near

Coffee on the front porch - albeit later in the morning than usual - and the realization that the end of my vacation is drawing to a close. I'm to depart Friday afternoon and now we are thinking what needs to get done before I leave. I'm not sure what else we did that day if anything.

16 and 17 June, Wed and Thursday
Yard work, a ride to Dicks, lunch with Alex, Christine and I at a sushi bar and then to Ann and Dave's for a nightcap.
Thursday evening we had planned on going to Jim Porters - a local honky tonk where many good acts have passed thru in the day - BUT Dave had read the schedule wrong so the band we wanted to see wasn't going to be there . However not to be outdone, we decided on Wednesday evening to go see Gallagher - the comedian who at the end of his show smashes watermelons and other assorted food stuffs with a huge "Sledge-o-matic" which sprays the crowd who wisely show up with enough plastic sheeting to ward off the flying pulverized food stuff. (Just before we went we ate dinner at Ramsi's on the World restaurant across the street from the club. Always one of my favorite places to eat as it's so eclectic and good.) Thanks to Tom who brought the plastic otherwise we would have been covered in food although we were a good 15 - 20 feet from the stage. Following this we went to the Germantown bar, Zeppelin. We had just ordered our drinks when the band started playing upstairs in the "Listening Room" We quickly went up and discovered it was "show up and go up" night with various musicians playing in pick up bands. Harmonica players were featured performers and I enjoyed their talents as I tried to play along in my head. All good things must come to an end and we returned Vickie to her house ending with long hugs and kisses goodbye and we departed for home. Ann and Dave said they'd be up to see me before I left the next day. I went in to see Wes, woke him up to say goodbye to him as he'd be gone by 5a for work.
In bed and not wanting to go but knowing I had to.

18 June 2010
Departure Day

Christine and I had our last coffee on the deck and then began the task of packing. Christine pulled out another suitcase as she was having me return with a load of her stuff as well. Alex woke up and joined us. Dave and Ann arrived and we relaxed until it was time to go. It was hard saying goodbye as these two mean so much to me.
Christine took me to the airport arriving at 1:45 for a 3:09 flight. We said our goodbyes, she watched as I went through security and went on her way as well. I had the usual hour plus wait and thought of getting a beer but I was all beered out. The prior 4 weeks of constant beer had me bloated, put on more weight than I care to admit and just burned out. So I just listened to my iPod and people watched. The flight was a late but that didn't matter to me as I had a 5 hour lay over in Chicago. We arrived just in front of another terrible storm (why was my vacation filled with this unsettled weather? ) As I was walking s-l-o-w-l-y around the terminal, I stopped to watch the approaching storm when suddenly, a bolt of lightening made it's jagged attack on the ground about a mile away. The report was almost instantaneous. I kid you not, everyone in the entire terminal went WHOA at the same time. The lights then dimmed as the terminal switched to emergency power. As the storm hit, the airport closed down with all planes stopped in place. One plane was being pushed out from the jetway and the guy on the push tractor ran for cover. It rained violently but as far as I know, no styrofoam Jesus statues were destroyed. The storm passed and O'Hare returned to normal operations. Being a hot dog lover found a stand where I bought a Chicago style hot dog. Yum I continued on my lazy walk now having killed 1 1/2 hrs so I ended up in a sports bar where I sat and watched the US Open and nursed a rum and coke for all it was worth. ( I'll tell you it's worth $9 - what a rip) Now having killed another hour, I figured it was time to go over to the international terminal and get checked in. I arrive to find a line which seemed to have no end. I finally got to the check in desk - my baggage had already been checked through at Louisville to get my boarding pass 1/2 hour later ( yes I timed it). The clerk told me they were running late and to take my time. I should have listened to him and returned to the domestic terminal - but that would entail going thru security again so I had my last USA meal at - dare I say it - McDonald's - and went thru security to the gate. Well my 8:30 flight is now listed as 10:30. ARGH The waiting area is filled to capacity with sub - continent types- some of who have a hard time distinguishing what deodorant is used for, so I found an empty gate and stayed there and watched CNN for hours on end - which turned out to be a repeating loop of news stories. I was able to lie down on the chairs but couldn't rest in fear of falling asleep and missing my flight. Another wicked storm rolled through the airport and shut it down again during this time reopening some 1/2 hour later. Finally it's nearing 10:30 so I go back to the gate and there is activity happening. Just as they are ready to start boarding, another storm hits and shuts the airport down - yes 3 storms in 7 hours. So we are delayed from boarding. We finally get aboard and settled in and pushed back from the gate at 11:30p. Then we sit and sit some more. Finally at 1:30a, nearly 13 hr's since arriving at Louisville Airport, (remember I gained an hour changing time zones) we depart for Abu Dhabi.
The 14 1/2 flight was uneventful. I slept a little bit, watched movies until I was bleary eyed, stood in the rear for almost 1 hr to get the blood circulating, returning to my seat to watch some more movies. I watch night go to day and then to night again.

19 June, Saturday
We finally landed, got thru immigration and while waiting for the baggage picked up 2 bottles of rum at the duty free shop. Collected my baggage and caught a taxi home arriving at 2a local time. After getting in and settled, I skyped Christine letting her know I was safely here. I got to bed by 3a and was up at 5:20a when the alarm went off for work. I hit the snooze but in my mind I knew I had to get up. I stumbled around, got my act together and came into work arriving only 1/2 hr late at 7a.

The first few days were a daze. My body was wracked with aches and pains from the limited space and torture devices they have you packed into in coach and my mind was on a completely different time zone for about 3 - 4 days. The first weekend home consisted of sleeping, going to the grocery store to restock the larder and sleeping some more. Finally, getting back to normal this week and getting my work a day habits into full swing as I tackle the challenges this job brings.
So thus ends the saga of my vacation. It was a Fine Trip. I hope you all enjoyed reading about it. I will be posting more pictures soon. As of today, July 1, there are 81 days until Christine arrives in Abu Dhabi to join me and as you have already surmised, I'm counting the days.
Thanks again for such a wonderful vacation - Thanks to Max for the extra spending money and most importantly thanks to my wonderful family- Christine, Wes and Alex and friends for all your support that you give me as I continue to work and live here in the United Arab Emirates.
All My Love
Scott

Fine Trip - Part 6

2010-06-30T21:22:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
1 July 2010, Thursday

This past week has been where I've finally gotten my feet back on the ground and began making headway on the massive amount of work which accumulated for me while I was gone. Ahhh -I wish I was back on vacation - or better yet - retired - but that will have to wait for 4 more years.
Having my neighbor Chris over for dinner tonight as his wife Suzanna and son Tavi have left for the summer , going to her home country of Finland for 6 weeks then to London where she and Chris will meet for a holiday visiting with his family and friends. Menu is burgers on the grill, carrot and cabbage casserole (first time I've made it) and a garden salad.
I left off on the last blog on the eve of the deck party.

11 June, Friday
Hot and steamy - wondering if the weather will force us to the front porch - do-able but tight.
We plan for the rear deck and Christine and I set up. Dave and Ann had brought their furniture up the day before. Christine takes the inside set up, I the outside. Roger and friend Tim arrive at noon with the two 1/6 kegs of New Albanian Brewery beer we had selected earlier in the week. It gets set up and naturally needed sampling to ensure all is right with the world. Roger and Tim hang for about an hour but they need to be off as Roger needs to get down to the New Albany waterfront park and set up for the Irish Fest where his product will be featured.
The menu for the party is Hot and Sweet Italian sausages, Brats, grilled onions and peppers. Christine has some dream potatoes and all other menu items will come from the invitees. (as always there is too much food) to prove that point, Cindy Himburg is found on the couch suffering from the effects over eating - I almost had to have her move over as I too enjoyed the feast.
I start up the grill and get the sausages/brats slow roasting and the peppers cooked on the side burner. As the day progresses, the weather has been HOT and steamy - but the chance of rain has dropped and we are now confident that we won't be chased off the deck.

I need to backtrack to Monday when I decided to install the sun shade sails on the deck. I have an elaborate cable and caribiner system to hang them between the house and the trees on the back of the yard. Dave and I get them all laid out, Ann and Christine make themselves scarce, and Dave and I go to work getting them installed. We have 4 sun shade sails, 6 cables, 5 attachment points on the house 5 trees and a slew of carbiners and turnbuckles. Had the owner of said contraption had taken the time to diagram out the set up (which was different from the first years' set up), this would have been an "easy" install. As time advanced and the various combinations failed, the study breaks became more frequent until finally it was too dark for Dave and I to continue. Naturally Ann and Christine were supportive of our efforts taking every opportunity to question our resolve, snickering at the appropriate times and flat out laughing at us at others, Dave and I ended the evening enjoying the the good natured kidding and the cold beer from the cooler. However I did notice that Dave joined in with the girls and started to make side comments on my lack of foresight.! ! We left the sun sails in place and decided to give it a go the next day where I immediately conceded defeat, rolled them all back up and returned them to their place on the shelf where they will stay until we return and the mystery of the one and only installation combination can be solved. Christine, Ann and Dave's snickering is still ringing in my ears!

Back to the party. I had set the start time to be 5 but knew full well that for the most part , it really wouldn't get started to about 7p. Which was just about right. It was wonderful to see friends from the hospital and neighborhood. My sister Ann and her steady Smitty showed up mid afternoon (following a flat tire in Sellerburg) and also helped get the house set up. Smitty is a college boyfriend of Ann's and they have reunited - and I'm all for it as he's a great guy. Naturally the chosen family arrived and everyone got set up for the evenings festivities . Dave played the guitar and Tom brought his electronic drum kit. After a failed attempt to amplify Dave's acoustic guitar, he returned to the natural sound and we turned Tom's kit down accordingly. - fine music then emanated . John Gage showed shortly later and after eating he gave a sparkling solo performance and then was joined by Dave. I was to have played harmonica - however , my tone deaf ears, the one too many beers and stage fright plus the obvious "Please Don't" look in the faces of the crowd kept me wise beyond my years and off the harmonic accomplishment. (although when all were gone that evening, Dave and I played for Christine, Ann, Ann and Smitty). Cindy brought her fiddle - but she too chickened out. Maybe next time Cindy.
The evening wound down and as the departures progressed, I knew it would be the last time I would be seeing some of these people for at least another 15 months as my next planned return is Sept. 2011 for Beer Fest. It was bittersweet. (I know all are expecting me to return this year however, I've used up my allotted "in country" time of 30 days. Any more and the tax breaks go away- and that 's not going to happen)
So the good byes are said and all depart. The food is put away and any item which shouldn't get wet is moved to dry quarters. Dave and I play play some and they too depart. Bed - exhausted and so filled with the joy of being able to call these people my friends.

12 June, Saturday

Up at 5a - rumbly in the tummy, read for a while and then back to sleep. back up at 8 and coffee. Ann and Smitty departed about 9 . Christine back to bed, me - quality couch time - in and out of sleep. At about 1p, Christine is now up and semi-lucid. She asks me where the tables and chairs are? I get up from the couch - look out on the deck and lo and behold the fairies had come and removed all the furniture. Unbeknown to us - and the dog didn't mention a word, Ann and Dave had come and retrieved them. Thanks Guys ! One big job done. Now the house needed restored.
Christine and I got that accomplished and then it was time for us to go over to Louisville for the last Kentucky HomeFront show of the season with John Gage and friends. It was a great performance by three different groups/artists which was followed by a trip to Sergio's where we all enjoyed some excellent beers (Sergio's has reportedly 1000 different beers in stock at all times - many on tap) One touching moment of the evening was at the end of the first show. John always sends a shout out to a recently deceased musician. This night he sent his shout out to his and our dear friend Drew Patterson . So thus John said " Good night Drew Patterson, wherever you are" There wasn't a dry eye in our circle of friends who continue to feel the loneliness and the empty space that our friend left in our hearts. We know where Drew is - he's with us everyday.

And with that, I'll end this blog.
Love to all,
Scott

Fine Trip - Part 5

2010-06-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

Hi All
27 June 2010

Well the USA lost to Ghana in the Round of 16 last night thus ending any hopes for the World Cup. I spent the weekend ( remember Friday and Saturday are my weekend days) restocking the larder, filling up the car, hair cut, liquor store and sleeping. The past month at home then jumping right back into my daily grind required some quality couch time. I'm feeling better now and will be able to face the rigors of the coming week.
Back to the Fine Trip Story. If you recall, I left off the night before the wedding.

5 June, Saturday
The noon wedding is being held in the "chapel" on the Yard. The word chapel has an connotation of being small and intimate - well not here as it is more like a cathedral. The Chapel is constantly booked for occasions and this being no different has a 2 hour window of opportunity to bring it off. The bridal party cannot arrive any sooner then one hour prior to the event, and must be gone from the premises at the end of the 2 hours - I know this because as we were gathered around following the ceremony at 12:45, guests for the next wedding at 2p were milling around.
We arrived and were seated, along with Teresa and Tom Brown (Michael's parents) on Brandon's side and shortly after that the music started and the business of getting Brandon and Geselle wed began. In comes the families then brides maids. The little boy who was to be the ring bearer clutched to his mothers leg, a bride's matron, on the way down the aisle. When he finally spotted his Dad, he let go and ran to him in the pews. Was quite comical and just that something that gives every wedding it's own personal signature. Brandon appears along with Alex at the head of the aisle and watches his lovely bride radiate as she is escorted to him. The minister is quite relaxed and brings the assembled to ease with his wit and charm as he talks about marriage and the responsibilities it entails. With the rings properly exchanged the music comes up from the wonderful organ which can also be seen and heard if you YouTube it - USNA Chapel Organ -and Brandon and Geselle glide down the aisle together. We all exit and prepare for the bridal couples exit from the church.
Michael leads the contingent of sword bearers from the chapel onto the front steps. Upon his command the officers draw swords and form the arch so familiar to all of us. As Brandon and Geselle enter the arch, the first pair of swords is lowered and it is announced that they cannot proceed without sharing a kiss, naturally Brandon and Geselle oblige them, they move forward and are again stopped at the next pair to repeat the kiss. - they move forward to Michael and Victor Sigilowski (a Marine 2nd Lt. who will be taking "The Basic Course" at Quantico with Alex). The command is given for a kiss, the swords are raised and as they depart at that point, both Michael and Victor give Brandon and Geselle a swift swat across their rear ends. Usually given to the bride as a "Welcome to the Military Family", Victor swatted Brandon as well and the look on his face of surprise was priceless!
Following this, the picture session was in full swing, we all assembled for a group picture and then it was time to find a cool place while we waited for the reception to start.
The Browns and the Morrows decided to cool our heels and quench our thirst at Rams Head where we enjoyed talking and relaxing.
The reception was held at the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium. At first you would think this was an odd location - however we soon discovered that there is a beautiful banquet hall located there. But first we proceeded up to to one of the enclosed viewing boxes where Brandon and Geselle had an open bar w/ finger food prior to the reception. It was interesting to look down upon the field where we had been just a week prior for the graduation. The field had been returned to it's natural state with all the chairs, tents, temporary stands, sound systems and stage now disassembled and stowed. At the appropriate time, the announcement was made for us to proceed to the banquet hall where we were to find our assigned seating. We sat with the Browns and a family whose son was best friends with Geselle growing up.
The party got started with the introduction of the bridal party as they entered with Brandon and Geselle kicking it into high gear upon their entrance. The DJ took over and guided the party through it's paces with the dinner being served followed with toasts for the bridal couple. Alex gave a wonderful speech which he had finally prepared the day before. He is a very capable speaker and toasted Brandon and Geselle marvelously. The dancing ensued with all the typical songs being played. For the cutting of the cake, they used Michael's Naval Sword which was presented to him by his parents. It is a absolutely lovely sword with exquisite workmanship.
The bouquet was caught by one of the brides maids and the garter by her fiance (was that set up? ) Further dancing and then last call was made.
We all rushed the bar for an after dinner drink and began to say our goodbyes. It was a bittersweet time for Christine and I as we doubt we will ever see some of these people again. We hope we do - but - as we all know, we have no idea what the future holds for us. (like living in the UAE ? - hahaha)
As we exited we found the groomsmen enjoying a cigar (blech) We hung around some more as we were one of the few remaining of the guests yet to leave and just enjoyed the warm evening and the fine afterglow of a special time. Alex was really saying goodbye to some who he had been with daily for 4 years and I think all could feel the bittersweet moment. I certainly am proud of that group of young men and women. They do give me a lump in my throat knowing that in a few short months they will be the ones at the pointy end of the spear, protecting us from what we don't want to know about and up there on that wall as we sleep peacefully in our warm beds. Sounds like Jack Nickelson from "A Few Good Men" -but true none the less.
We departed and returned to Herb and Barbara's. Alex rolled in quite later.

6 June, Sunday
Going Home !

Alex needed to stay in Annapolis for another day to pick up uniforms and Christine and I packed the car and departed by 8a for Corydon. The trip was uneventful until we hit the rain - and it was one heck of a rain. It rained in Maryland and was not too bad however the downpour we got going south between Morgantown to Charlestown WV was dangerous. We saw several vehicles spun out and in the median. It just dumped on us. However after we started to head west, the skies brighten up and it was easy driving from there. After 10 hours on the road we pulled into Corydon and unpacked. Both of us needed a nice place to relax so we jumped back in the car and went and visited Ann and Dave Self in White Cloud. A few beers later, and a "brief" account of our trip, (and some serious laughing) we returned to home and our own bed.

7 June - 10 June, Monday - Thursday
Chores and more. Hot and sticky weather.
After 2 weeks on the road it was great to see my house again. Christine and I enjoyed coffee on the front porch each morning and spent the week preparing for the party the coming Friday.
We visited Rich O's and along with Roger, Christine, Dave determined the beer menu for the party. We also found time to play some music, Dave on the guitar and me on harmonica. I'm trying but I've got a long way to go. Wes had just started his new job so he was transitioning from night shift to days so his body clock was all whacked out. Alex returned on Monday night and moved back into his room. McKinley, Wes's black lab kept us busy playing with her.
The house is in a transition period, Our stuff is in/out of storage, Wes's stuff is semi in place - mostly packed in the garage and Alex is a temporary guest that comes with a car plus full of stuff, some staying, some returning with him. Christine is trying to make it back into a home and it's really quite crazy. Hopefully she will have it sorted by the time she comes to live here in September - Which btw- I've just purchased her ticket.
Her last full day in Corydon will be Saturday, Sept.18. She departs on the 19th arriving here on our 29th anniversary on Sept. 20.
This week I also enjoyed a visit to the dentist which was followed by a meeting with our financial advisor. Talk about two uncomfortable experiences on the same day ! Actually my dental care was just a cleaning with no problems found and the financial advisor tells us we are still on the right track for the 5 Year Plan to be realized. Naturally the more we save, the more we get to realize so .... we tightened our belts again and are are more determined than ever to be returning to Corydon in 2014. (hey if I had been sent to prison, that would be one thing but to be living in a foreign country making good money and able to return home every year - that's not too difficult to swallow) That being said, I'll end here and start a new blog about the party.
Love to all,
Scott

Pictures 3

2010-06-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

Alex is "pinned" by Christine and I. Now he's official.

Katie Otano - Texas- Class of 2013 and the one chosen by Alex to receive his first salute.

Wes, Christine, Alex and I

The ladies with the Officer of the Day. Beth, Christine, Alex, Kathy and Louise.

Back at the house and one of the hundreds of pictures take that day.

Alex Receives His Diploma

2010-06-25T21:18:00.000-07:00

Although a shaky video at the beginning, I find the focus and Alex's name is called and goes forward to shake hands with Vice President Joe Biden, then Admiral Gary Roughead, Chief of Naval Operations, and then Admiral Jeffery Fowler, "The Supe" of the Naval Academy.

Also noticeable is the HUGE grin on Alex's face.

WOW

Blue Angels Fly Over

2010-06-25T20:48:00.000-07:00

Pictures 2

2010-06-25T20:07:00.000-07:00

How cool is this!
From the left: Beth, Joe, Louise, Kenny, Anne, Manny, Chistine, Kathy, John, Jack, Wes, Alex, Samantha, Todd, Uncle Art ( USNA '46), Jack, Ann and Scott

Yippee ! Brandon at bottom of ramp receiving his Ensign Bars from Class of 1960 representative. You can see Alex has his in his hand with diploma.

Me ! Mine !

Hi Joe ! Sup?

The comissioning of the Marine Corps Officers. Alex is at 8 o'clock from the center.

Pictures 1

2010-06-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

Color Parade

Christine and Alex at the Graduation Ball

Blue Angels

Eighth and I

Fine Trip - Part 4

2010-06-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

Hi All
24 May 2010

I've loaded some pictures from my camera into the home PC and will be posting those over the weekend. Stay tuned.
Last night I watched with approx 1000 other fans the USA v Algeria and the England v Slovenia football games at a local hotel bar. The bar was PACKED and I stood the whole 4 hours I was there. Met several other Americans. Was just like being back home. USA and England both won and went through to the next round . WOO HOO !

29 May
The Day After
Oh what a wonderful time we are having. Such memories (and in fact as I was unpacking my suitcase this morning I came across the graduation program which is here on my desk to show my staff)
The day after had the remaining visitors up and over to the Yard about 10a where Alex gave a "brief" tour of the campus including John Paul Jones crypt, The Navy Chapel, Bancroft Hall, the Mid Store and then over to the USNA Museum. It was determined that since we all drove separately to the Yard, those who wanted could peel off and go their separate ways. So as we all said our good byes on the steps of the museum, Christine, Wes and I returned to the house and began to organize /clean up/ get ready for the gathering planned for that afternoon with Michael and his family. There was PLENTY of food and drink remaining so that wasn't an issue. We just had to clean up ( oh by the way, Christine, her Dad and my brother Todd did a wonderful job cleaning up from the party the night before - I'm sure I missed someone but those are the ones that come to mind now) So as we organized and de-festooned the house moving items towards their boxes for packing into the car for the next day's trip to Pittsburgh.
The museum goers returned, food was put out and the Browns arrived . We all enjoyed the less stressful setting and were able to all sit around the deck and just plain relax ! Believe me it was a welcome respite after the activity and stress filled week leading up to the graduation. The Browns said their goodbyes - we'd see them the following week- Wes was taken to the airport and the survivors relaxed for the remainder of the day.

30 May Sunday
Clean up and get out of town day.
The house was given the final clean, all cars packed and everyone was ready to go by 10:30. We all headed off to the Baltimore airport where Todd and Samantha were dropped for their flights. Three cars, the two Dads, Alex and Christine in Alex's car and me in our car drove back to Pittsburgh. Christine, Alex and I proceeded to Christine's sister's house (who had just gotten home from Annapolis a few hours ahead of us) where we dined on - yes you guessed it - more leftovers from the party. We sat and talked but it wasn't long before my eyes were rolling in the back of my head so I slipped off to bed.

31 May, Monday - 2 June, Wednesday
Memorial Day
My plans were for me to travel to Bradford PA ( our former home) to visit with one of my best friends, Jerry Clark. Jerry had also joined us at the Graduation and was, as always, a center of attraction with his quick wit and joke telling capability. At the graduation, Alex had mentioned to him that he'd also like to come up and Jerry graciously invited him as well. So Alex and I arrived in the Village of Westline (20 mi south of Bradford, population approx. 120 people - population never changes - a girl gets pregnant, a guy leaves town) early afternoon - well the skies opened up just as we pulled into the driveway - so we sat in the car for 15 - 20 minutes until the rain abated. Alex and I ended up dodging rain the 2 days we were there. Jerry and I caught up with each other and Alex went into Bradford to look around the old neighborhood - he hadn't been there for 11 years, visit his old school and teachers and friends. We had planned on eating at the Westline Inn- my favorite watering hole - but just never got around to it and departed for PA on Wednesday morning. Jerry was a wonderful host and had made Shrimp LeJon (bacon wrapped shrimp with horseradish) for us upon our arrival then steaks on the grill. His signature breakfast of buttermilk muffins , eggs, korv (Swedish sausage) and coffee the next morning and then for Tuesday evening marinated chicken slow roasted on the grill. Wednesday morning was pancakes w/ blueberry sausage and coffee as well. I was also able to connect with good friends Mark and Pam who also live in Westline. - I never made it to Bradford.
Alex and I returned to Pittsburgh and he and his Uncle Jeff went out and Alex bought a laptop with some of his graduation money. I took a nap and then later on that day, we yes you guessed it - finished up the leftovers from the graduation party (well the majority of the leftovers). Both mornings that I was there, Jeff went out and bought fresh bagels (are there any other kind?) which we enjoyed with cream cheese and lox and capers. Mmmmm - can't get bagels like that here in the UAE in fact you'd be hard pressed to find a bagel - they are just not done here.

3 June 2010,Thursday
Alex departed for Quantico as he had some business to attend to and Christine and I departed for Annapolis as we had been invited to attend Brandon ( Alex's room mate for all 4 years) & Geselle's wedding. Alex was the best man and it was held in the Chapel. We were invited to stay with Herb and Barbara where we also enjoyed their hospitality. We arrived in Annapolis, had lunch at the Ram's Head Bar and then proceeded over to Herb and Barbara's. They had gone out for the evening and we let ourselves in. Alex soon arrived and we went out to eat at a local crab house. We wisely got there before the rush and a torrential downpour. Alex and I picked a dozen crabs while Christine enjoyed her soft shell crabs.

4 June, Friday
Wedding Rehearsal and Bar Hopping
Alex was up and gone for chores he needed to do and Christine and I lazed around then went over to the Yard to tour the museum ourselves. - if you recall - we took Wes back to the house so he could sleep prior to returning to Indiana and the night shift job he had (he now has a new job on days working for a company that supports the Ford Truck assembly plant - his company supplies the dashboards and steering wheel assemblies.)
We had also planned to meet Alex at McGarvey's for lunch where he and I had our traditional oysters on the half shell. For all you oyster lovers out there , this is rated as the best place to get them in Annapolis. They were big and delicious. Following that, Alex had the rehearsal and Christine and I returned to the house and changed for the rehearsal party being held at the Officer's Club.
This started at 4p and they had a full sit down meal for 80 people. It was awfully nice of Brandon and Geselle to include us as we certainly weren't expecting it. Dinner ended and we had heard that the "kids" were going to meet later at an Mexican restaurant for margaritas. However I was hot and tired and really didn't feel like it. Christine looked at me and said - "If you think that we're going to go back and sit around the house on a Friday night in Annapolis - one of the best towns to stroll and bar hop when you and I are all dressed up - your out of your mind! (or something to that effect)
Needless to say I mustered my inner fortitude and we began what turned out to be a truely marvelous evening. ( Thanks Christine) We first went to Rams Head and had a beer. We then drove downtown ( should have walked) and proceeded to hit a bar in the harbor and strolled around the harbor looking at the yachts. (playtoys) From there is it was over to another bar where Christine spied a Mid she knew. Well she played "Mommy Morrow" to the hilt and ended up buying the Mid his dinner - much to the envy of the other Mids with him. I in the meantime was chatting up a fellow at the bar stool next to me who when he got up told the bartender he was leaving for Louisville. We had a nice long chat as he wanted to know all about where to go and what to see while in Louisville. ( Churchill Downs and Louisville Slugger being the two must see's for any out of towner).
After this we walked back up town to the Mexican restaurant to meet up with the kids and buy a round for them . Well they weren't there. Bummer. Now what? I know - back across the street to the Rams Head - and lo and behold who did we find - - Yes, the groom and groomsmen - So we got seats at the bar, watched the Blackhawks lose to the Fliers and just kept opening my wallet for bar munchies and beers. About an hour later Geselle showed up with her brides maids. We had a marvelous time and my wallet cried. BUT I need to stop whining about the money situation. I took in a renter, Max, in Abu Dhabi and his rent money paid for my vacation - So every time a bill came I picked it up and Christine and I would both say "It's on Max" Thanks Max !
Well it was getting late so we left, walked back downtown, retrieved the car and returned to Herb and Barbara's. Alex came in around 1a. Good Night

That's all for this blog entry.
Love to all,
Scott

Fine Trip - Part 3 - Graduation Day

2010-06-23T01:47:00.000-07:00

Hi All
23 June 2010

Graduation Day
28 May 2010

Alex could have told you how many days until graduation 4 years ago (one of the rites of passage to being a Plebe)
It's here! today is the day! and the weather has cooperated by actually becoming cooler, is overcast and less humid. We are thrilled as are the soon to be 2nd Lt.s and Ensign's. However , Alex is wound tighter than a drum and anxious to get to there ON TIME. So much so that he couldn't even wait until we got into the parking lot, he jumped out and walked the rest of the way to his muster location as we waited in traffic entering the stadium parking.
Back to yesterday and the color parade - funny thing happened - Alex is getting ready and had his uniform on before he left. Dark pants, dark top. He drives over to the yard and turns the corner and realizes he's not dressed properly - he's to have on white pants. - he whips his car around and makes a bee line for the house calling us on the way on how to get into the house - we have all left by then and it was locked up. We call the owner and she gives us the garage numeric code, he undresses in the car - runs in, grabs white pants and races back to the Yard with only 10 minutes to spare. Luckily he wasn't stopped by the police as he admits he stretched several traffic laws getting to and from. Needless to say there were a few choice word emitting from Alex's mouth when he discovered he was not in the right uniform.
We arrive in the parking lot only to be directed to park in the grass - well remember the rain from just hours ago - well it's making it a muddy mess. We had planned to drink coffee and have pastries in the lot before going in - well no one ( me) felt comfortable trying to stay clean and do this whole routine so I indicated that we might as well go in - get good seats and eat at the concessions - which is what we did. One word of advice - don't get the breakfast egg/sausage muffin - it was horrible.
Well we sat there for 1:45 hrs until finally at 8:45, the band started to play Pomp and Circumstance - and here from the far end zone begins the entry 2 by 2 of the 1028 graduating class of 2010. They entered, top 100 honors graduates first then by company and alphabetically. Alex in 7th Company sat directly in front of us. Christine couldn't have picked better seats. Then all the underclassmen filed in and took their place in the stands. Following this were all the professors and military instructors. Next came the invited dignitaries. At about this time the Vice President's helicopter flew over , circled the stadium and went off to land. Joe Biden and Admiral Gary Roughead - Chief of Naval Operations then arrive in Joe's limo and they take the podium to ruffles and flourishes.
At exactly 10:04, the Blue Angels do their fly over to the cheers of the assembled 25,000 spectators. Speeches commence with Joe Biden going last. He spoke as politicians do - with friendly banter and glad handing for 15 minutes then for the remaining 15 minutes he spoke of Obama's 4 pillars of the economic recovery. An audible groan was heard from the collective audience when he introduced that subject. The one high lite of his speech was when he mentioned John McCain's name. The partisan Naval Academy crowd cheered this and Joe joined in the celebration of acknowledging a true American Hero.
Next came the commissioning of the Marines and the Ensigns. Following this the top 100 honor students were awarded their diplomas and then began the long line of the remaining 928 graduates. As the excitement built and Alex's row stood to get in line, the grins were ear to ear. Finally his name is called and Alex strode up the ramp, shook Joe Biden's hand, then Admiral Roughead's who presented him with his diploma, shook Admiral Fowler's ( The Supe) hand and strode down the adjoin ramp holding his diploma and commissioning letter high over his head. At the bottom of the ramp, a member of the class of 1960 - another link in the chain - 50 years ago and a tradition at the Academy presented Alex with his 2nd Lt. bars. As Alex strode back to his seat, his grin was like the Cheshire Cat - Huge , Wide and Un-eraseable! We of course were hooting and hollering our support 30 strong in the stands! What a moment. I have a video of it and will post pictures as well. (as I will of this whole vacation)

After the last Midshipman received his diploma a huge roar came from the masses as we knew what was coming. The president of the class of 2011 stood and led 3 cheers by the underclassman to "those who were about to leave us". The Class of 2010 then stood and were cheering wildly in anticipation of the final event of their Naval Academy journey. The 3 cheers to "those we are about to leave behind" - Hip Hip Hooray, Hip Hip Hooray, Hip Hip Hooray and with that 1028 Naval Academy caps flew into the air making the photo op it always is. Cheers, Hugs, Laughing and I'm sure a few tears of joy were in display -and that was only me ! As the kids ran to retrieve the now unowned caps, the masses started to either file down to the field or out of the stadium to where they were to meet their now newly commissioned officer. Alex had chosen the Blue Angel F-18 on display outside the stadiums entrance. We along with what seemed like hundreds of other parents and families used it as a back drop to where Christine first presented Alex with his Marine Corps Officers cap and we "Pinned" Alex's 2nd Lt. bars to his shoulder. What a proud moment.

As the numerous photos were being taken, I noticed a Plebe standing there with Alex attending to her. I suddenly realized that Alex had chosen her to give him his first Salute. The tradition is that you pay for your first salute with a genuine SILVER dollar. (Alex took several hours with Samantha to locate a real silver dollar the day before finding one at a jewelry store where he paid too much for it) With the salute accomplished, Alex then told us why he had chosen her - it was because her grit and determination though out the year impressed him and he thought she was best rewarded with the silver dollar.
This done and the picture session winding down, I suggested that we retire to the cars where I had bought a cooler full of beer to enjoy while we waited for the traffic to ease out of the parking lot. Well it was then I noticed that the real surge had not yet begun so I further suggested that we just get while the getting was good and leave. We did and returned to the house where the real party started. Michael's family and the Morrow family joined forces in planning the party with Brandon - Alex's roommate and family also joining in the fun. In all we had about 60 - 70 people through the house that day.
Christine and Theresa had planned a wonderful menu which came together perfectly. If you left the house that day not completely satisfied in food in drink- then you'd never be a happy person. Music, laughter ensued and then towards evening cigars came out to toast the new officers. I even smoked one to honor Alex and Michael , getting about 1/2 way through before turning green. Over the edge of the deck it went - yuck!
Michael is a Ensign and will be stationed in Norfolk aboard a destroyer. Brandon will be stationed in San Diego aboard a cruiser. Alex is headed to Quantico for 6 months of "The Basic School" where all Marines learn how to lead men the Marine way. He reports July 5.

Well the party started to break up as people who would be leaving early in the morning began to say their goodbyes bidding fare well and good luck to Alex, Michael and Brandon. I went to the bedroom at around 11p to use the restroom and was found sleeping on top of the bed by Christine well after midnight. She, like me, was exhausted from the week's activities and responsibilities of being the host. She got me into bed and followed shortly after.
What a marvelous, wonderful, exciting and proud day made all the better by being surrounded by all we love. I'm honored to have friends and family that are such good people.
Love to All
Scott