zed

Mornin’, Christy. I’m up early to pick the family up at Sea-Tac Airport. Coffee’s on! No muffins, though…

good morning, christy.

Good Morning all.

After I left Alaska on Tuesday, Ms. ET and the kids, along with some visiting friends from ETette’s crew team at Western Washington U (National Div 2 Champs 2007 – woo-hoo!), packed a dozen jars of strawberry-rhubarb jam and another dozen containers of pesto. We’ve gotten to specialize in making pesto from lemon basil. It is really scrumptious.

I love that picture, Christy. Any chance katymine’s photos might show up as an album on the FDL facebook group?

Good morning Christy!

Places in Between is great.

I lent to a relative who is running a growing law practice in Mozambique. It really conveys the complexity of the tribal situation in Afghanistan.

The author has a certain fecklessness–it seems unremarkable to him to expect people to just put him up. But it’s a remarkable journey, and a strong contrast to the simplistic analyses we see of places like Iraq and Afghanistan.

Goodmorning, folks. What shall the day bring forth?

Good Morning from Fargo. My computer is back with a new logic board. Thank Goddess.

At a family reunion myself. Father’s 75th birthday. 60-70 people expected. Big crisis yesterday–the whole lamb that was supposed to arrive at the butcher didn’t make it. So the pit and the spit and crank are not going to be of much use, what with the assorted legs and shanks we ended up with.

Not my job though; I’m making rice pilaf.

Interesting mention of Paul Theroux. He used to live in Honolulu, don’t know if he still does. Can’t say he is a friend, but he attended my daughter’s wedding. Have to admit I have not read his writings, so I can’t comment on that. Big ego, but that often comes with big talent, which he has.

Paul Theroux

nonplussed @ 9

Goodmorning, folks. What shall the day bring forth?

Looks like sunshine today, good morning nonplussed!

Oh and I should note for Glenn Greenwald and Sam Seder fans a couple of interviews I’ve done in the last two weeks to help promote YearlyKos in Second Life.

There’s a legacy emptywheel interview as well.

I know it’s been done to death,but I really liked reading Frances Mayes’ Under the Tuscan Sun. The movie is NOTHING like the book,AT ALL(which annoyed me to no end). The star of the book,imo,is the house that’s being rennovated. It made me want to go to Tuscany when the sunflowers are in bloom.

I also loved Richard Preston’s The Wild Trees,which,while not a travel book really,made me want to see the redwood forests in N.CA so much I booked a trip to go there less than a month after reading it.

There’s also a 1000 Places to See Before You Die in the US and Canada that just came out for those people who can’t afford overseas travel. It’s very interesting,and proves the point that you really can’t know a country without seeing many parts of the whole.

We had planned a trip to Canada’s Rocky Mountains… sent passport in late January for renewal…
the photos weren’t good enough, returned with post office productions
those photos were received in “damaged condition” so retook post office photos…
I’m thinking our government doesn’t want us learning about the world through others’ eyes…
Homeland Security changed the rules so I can now go to Canada and return showing photo id (drivers’ licenses)
But those of you planning “overseas” trips need to allow a good deal of lead time if your passports are not ready yet.
We were heading out the door for a month at a BandB in France to learn to speak the language on the morning of nine eleven. Perhaps one day we’ll be able to rebook that excursion.

Travel books: Bill Bryson is a hoot. I’ve read pretty much everything he’s written.

And truly off topic, does anyone remember the first name of Professor Baer in Little Women? Thanks.

nonplussed @ 9

Good morning, folks. What shall the day bring forth?

Today is the last Time Trial before tomorrows end of the Tour de France. It’s going to be exciting. At least this week I don’t have to choose between the TdF and Harry Potter.

I don’t read travel books except for The People Guide to Mexico. It’s a functional and hilarious look at 30 years worth of travel in Mexico. I would heartily recommend it.

In lie of travel books I’ve been reading on line travel diaries by people who have been biking in the US and around the world. They are awesome and have kept me sane during the crummy summer months at work.

For a really nice travel diary I would recommend Vespa Vagabond. It’s about a young woman who was moving from California to NY City and decided to do it on her Vespa. She found herself falling in love with the US back roads and decided to move to Wyoming into a single room log cabin without running water and heat to write a book about her adventures. She’s fabulous writer.

In late May, we stayed a week in a flat on the northwest side of Montmartre. A whole week of living like Parisians, a boulangerie first thing for a fresh baguette and a couple of pastries, lunch out and about, shopping for dinner at the small shops and boucheries, cooking in. A fresh chevre, a slab of tomme de savoie, a chilled rose’, sitting in a park reading and watching people, what else is there in life?

I think I could make a life there.

We leave next week to go to Caracas and then to an island off the north coast of Venezuela, Isla de Margarita….I found it on the Internet and the photos of the island look beautiful! My husband and 16 yo son are going with me. Made the plans before riots started in Caracas, so we are a little worried about that part of the trip….but we figure we’ll be okay. We love to go places and we try to learn as much as we can about the culture and the lives of the people where we are going….if possible, we try to learn some of the language….(good news this time, husband already speaks great Spanish)….and when we travel we are not assholes….we try to be polite and kind to everyone and we have found that usually makes a huge difference no matter where you are. Looking forward to a beach run….especially to a place and a country we have never been to.

Here’s an interesting article.

http://www.consortiumnews.com/2007/072707a.html

In August of 2001, Mr.Solai and I had to choose between a trip to London or Spain. The trip to Spain included a day in Moracco, which was really intriguing. London won out and we thought we’d do Spain/Moracco another time. Then 9/11 hit. I regret that decision. I don’t know if I’ll ever get there now.

egregious @ 17

And truly off topic, does anyone remember the first name of Professor Baer in Little Women? Thanks.

Good morning, egregious. Friedrich (not sure if I’ve got Alcott’s spelling right).

I must agree with Egregious, Bill Bryson is very engaging. “A Walk in the Woods” is truly first rate. Of course, I really want to do the Appalachian Trail.

Good morning from L.A. Up early here to proof a friend’s writing, then a walk w/the dogs down San Vicente Blvd. in the mist. Music recommendations? Sure. I’m listening w/headphones so as not to disturb the sleeping housemates- good wakeup music is normally Miles, Monk, or Trane, but this a.m. it’s a wonderful cd by Queen Ida, “Cookin’ with Queen Ida.”

This youtube vid’s got some great Cajun dance hall vibe, too:
Queen Ida & the Bon Temps Zydeco Band- Rosa Majeur

Time to go to Greece, hmmm?

My first experience in a foreign land while using a travel book… Over 30 years ago I read “Mexico on $5 a Day,” and my wife and I made a driving trip through the country for a couple of weeks using it as our guide. The details about different cities, small towns, eateries and hotels, etc. were accurate and made for a fun trip.

Some of the places we visited have changed drastically, like Saltillo, once known for it’s education and tile making, today they assemble GM and Chrysler vehicles… read the Wikipedia entry…

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

Nola Sue, thank you! I’ve got my mother’s copy of Little Women but it’s in the guest room and there’s a college kid sleeping in there. Problem solved.

This really is a full-service blog :)

I would like to invite all of you over to Denmark. We’ve been having one of the rainiest summers ever, so remember to bring your umbrellas.

ReneND @ 10

Good Morning from Fargo. My computer is back with a new logic board. Thank Goddess.

Mine too. Makes a world of difference and all ready and happy for YKos next week.

Lots of great stuff to do in Chicago too.

OT but of some note
snip>
The US is reported to be preparing a major arms deal with Saudi Arabia worth $20bn over the next decade.

It is said to be part of a strategy for countering Iran’s growing strength. Defence officials quoted by US media and the AFP news agency said it would include missile guidance systems, upgraded fighter jets and naval ships.

To counter objections from Israel, they said, the Jewish state would be offered significantly increased military aid.
snip>

Good morning.

Can I go OT here? I’m sure all of you know how wonderful this site is. Not just the diaries and comments (which are both superb) but the structure of this site, also. The techies really need to be congratulated. No where on the net have I seen a site that rivals this one.
But, here’s my question. I have a friend who’s really going through a bad time. Divorce and other problems. I’m worried about her. We all know that being able to vent our rage on the net is keeping us sane. I’ve been looking for a site for her. So that when she wakes up at 2 in the morning, she can find people to chat with. I’ve googled till my fingers are numb and have found some really crappy sites that would frustrate her more than help. Anyone know of a well-structured site that can help her?

Travel Books? How about:
Blue Highways by William Least Heat Moon – The author drove the two lane blacktops of the US (the blue highways on the highway maps)

And going back nearly two hundred years:
Two Years Before The Mast by Richard Henry Dana – The author dropped out of Harvard to rest his eyes in the 1830s and shipped as a common seaman for two years on a whaler then wrote about his experiences. It was the first book ever written from the perspective of the common seaman. Up till then, all books about ships and the sea had been written by the Captain, other officers, supercargos or passengers.

Favorite places I’d recommend:

Loire Valley in France. If you go to Paris and can get out of the city the valley is wonderful.

Did the Quebec thing here last summer and will always love it.

Spent a week once in Providenciales on the Turks & Caicos Is. Recommended for a place to go when you want to do absolutely nothing but rest and relax. If you like to snorkel all the better.

Greek Islands—smaller ones away from the crowds. I hear it is awfully hot these days so maybe not this summer.

It may be pedestrian but I love the Peter Mayle books on Provance. Very witty, very human scale.

Mellow morning music…

Pets – Porno for Pyros

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rH5Sl5tsg0

solai @ 32

Can I go OT here? I’m sure all of you know how wonderful this site is. Not just the diaries and comments (which are both superb) but the structure of this site, also. The techies really need to be congratulated. No where on the net have I seen a site that rivals this one.
But, here’s my question. I have a friend who’s really going through a bad time. Divorce and other problems. I’m worried about her. We all know that being able to vent our rage on the net is keeping us sane. I’ve been looking for a site for her. So that when she wakes up at 2 in the morning, she can find people to chat with. I’ve googled till my fingers are numb and have found some really crappy sites that would frustrate her more than help. Anyone know of a well-structured site that can help her?

This might not be of use but what I did on those sleepless nights is read web sites of interest to me, for example, I enjoy politics and economics. It doesn’t take that many pages of information about gnp to lull me back to sleep. Maybe your friend can do research on a place she/he would like to visit.

I’d love to travel more, but I don’t know about travel writing. But then again, I’m not much for any writing these days, especially not political writing. But I did put together a few thoughts last night about what’s discouraging about the whole politics thing.

A groggy hello from KS. Love books, love travel books, have the worst jet lag I’ve had on these transitions, trying to remember what I love about travel. However, I love reading Pull Up a Chair as it is being written and commented upon.

I highly, highly recommend Two in the Far North, by Margaret Murie. It is young love in Alaska, long ago, and the love for each other and for the land is an honest account of respect that makes one honoured in the reading of it.

For all those traveling to Yearly Kos, I wish you all a very safe and fun time

Travel and Books…I love Saturday mornings with Christy.

Here’s a book that combines both travel and commentary. Jim Hightower has this to say of the book:

“Here’s the travel book the chamber of commerce doesn’t want you to have. It shows you the way to places of great beauty, but it also invites you into the parts of real America that other books avoid—gated communities in small towns, homeless kids in our cites, poor people of color toiling at arduous and poorly-paid labor, burgeoning economic inequality, and environmental destruction in our national parks. Read this book. It might change the way you see our country the next time you travel.”—Jim Hightower, national radio commentator and author of Thieves In High Places

Dreamcatcher @ 12; I never laughed so much as when I read Paul Theroux’s Hotel Honolulu. The scrabble game is priceless.

And lastly this is my destination for this summer, home of Anne of Green Gables and a quieter place. It is, after all, called the “Gentle Island”.

I don’t know if it is on the “1000 places to go” list, but I’d like to recommend Cape Breton Island, NS. Several years ago, in the first throes of learning how to play the fiddle, I signed up for the Ceilidh Trail School of Celtic Music in Inverness. While I fiddled all day, the rest of my family went to the beach, paddled with pilot whales, hiked in the National Park there(covered this month in Bicycling Magazine, I might add), and had a hoot. Special note: practically every afternoon, if you drive on Rt. 19(I think I’ve got that right; it’s the north side), late in the afternoon, you will start seeing signs put out at the end of the drives of community centers, firehalls, etc. saying “Ceilidh Tonight” with the time. That means live music(I don’t think the folks in Cape Breton will tolerate any other sort). It does not necessarily mean dancing too — those are scheduled and advertised separately. And, if the sign says, “Adult Party” that means a) live music and b) liquor, which means that if you are under 19, you can’t get in. Best place to visit – The Red Shoe in Mabou. Great music all the time. If you want to go, you need to make your housing arrangements in January/Feb. time frame as everything fills up very fast for the summer, but if you are willing and able to put off vacation until September, that is fantastic. The other thing – everyone dances there: step dancing(no, I do NOT mean Riverdance), reels and squares. And there are always dances around (when I was there, Natalie McMaster played a big dance in a church hall), so bring your dancing shoes!

This might not be of use but what I did on those sleepless nights is read web sites of interest to me, for example, I enjoy politics and economics. It doesn’t take that many pages of information about gnp to lull me back to sleep. Maybe your friend can do research on a place she/he would like to visit.

You’d have to know my friend to realize that wouldn’t work. Tips on baking might though. We are polar opposites. To illustrate this, I’ll tell this true story.
She lives about a mile from where I work. After the attack on 9/11, I called her to see if I could come over at lunchtime to watch her TV. She said she was just leaving for the mall but she would leave the door unlocked for me. And off she went, not a care in the world.

I don’t know if it is on the “1000 places to go” list, but I’d like to recommend Cape Breton Island, NS.

Golly, I was there almost 20 years ago. I loved it, and hope that it hasn’t changed much. Stayed in a wonderful Victorian B&B in Port Royale. Always thought I’d go back & circumbicyclate the island but doesn’t seem to be happening.

Books, music and exotic, and not so exotic, places. Quite the mix.

Dating myself here, but I don’t care. When stereo first came out a friend of my grandfather had one of those units that had a turntable and detachable speakers. My dad was a pianist so I had been exposed to all sorts of music but loved classical and jazz. While visiting this gentleman one afternoon he put on this record and I was absolutely enthralled. To this day I listen to Igor Stravinsky’s “Le sacre du printemps,” with Leonard Bernstein conducting the Israel Philharmonic and remember that sunny afternoon with great fondness. This is a later recording but I’ve never heard it performed better, even live. I’ve been a Stravinsky freak ever since.

My grampa had been in the Navy during WWI and he used to tell me stories of his travels and being at sea. He never saw any action but his sea stories led to me follow in his footsteps. Nothing in this world compares with a sunrise or sunset in the middle of the Atlantic or Pacific on a destroyer. Nothing.

Stationed at the naval base in Rota, Spain for a little over two years I was fortunate enough to visit Europe extensively. Before that, however, I had sailed the Pacific and visited those places we all see in the travel brochures. Japan is a wonderful place and I would have no trouble spending my twilight years there. But my favourite place to visit was Hong Kong. I’ve been there probably a dozen times or so and was always excited to be returning. The food is to die for and it isn’t the stuff masquerading as Chinese food we see here. And the spicy food of Thailand comes in a close second. These places where the culture is thousands, not hundreds, of years old are like a magnet to me. I don’t dream of Spain, France, Germany or any other European country. I dream of Asia.

Sailors are readers. It wasn’t unusual to see almost every crewmember with a paperback stuffed in the back pocket of their dungarees.

All in all, a good book, great music in the background, cat in lap, and a nip of single malt Scotch is all I need. Now if I could just figure out a way to do all that in, say, Osaka. Forever.

Peace.

Don’t forget Eric Newby – lovely, self deprecating English humor. My favourite is A short walk in the Hindu Kush. There is also a really good one about a boat trip up the Ganges River.

And I loved Vikram Seth’s book From Heaven Lake: Travels Through Sinkiang and Tibet. (As well as his memoir Two Lives.)

This next one is partly a travel book and partly an adventure book – and I don’t know if it is even available any more, but I really loved Robin Davidson’s book Tracks. It is the story of her walk across Australia’s central desert with a group of camels.

Oh, and I almost forgot Bruce Chatwin (can’t forget Bruce Chatwin!) – especially Songlines and In Patagonia.

Just did a superquick look for most-thumbed travel books sitting around here:

-Foghorn Outdoors Pacific NW Hiking 5TH Edition- Scott Leonard

-Active Woman Vacation Guide: True Stories by Women Travelers, Plus 1001 Exciting Adventure Trips- Evelyn Kaye

-Coastal California (Lonely Planet Coastal California)- John Vlahides

& the wonderful
-1,000 Places to See Before You Die- Patricia Schultz

nonplussed @ 30

OT but of some note
snip>
The US is reported to be preparing a major arms deal with Saudi Arabia worth $20bn over the next decade.

It is said to be part of a strategy for countering Iran’s growing strength. Defence officials quoted by US media and the AFP news agency said it would include missile guidance systems, upgraded fighter jets and naval ships.

To counter objections from Israel, they said, the Jewish state would be offered significantly increased military aid.
snip>

Always nice to arm both sides in a conflict. Everyone wins! Yeah! Especially the arms manufacturers.

Morning all! Great picture Christy & Katymine. Wish I was there.

Lil’ Debbie and Howie at the WaPo both have columns up about, hold on to your seats, “The Clinton Cleavage.” The comments aren’t working though. I knew as soon as I saw the link on the home page “Cleavage and Clinton and the Campaign Chest” is was Howie. GOD. I. DESPISE. THESE. IDIOTS.

Although not exactly a travel book, Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road” captured the magic of spontaneous travel.

Oh and as for books about Afghanistan becoming pertinent after 9/11? Well, even after a hundred plus years, Kipling still offers a good perspective on how things are timeless in that part of the world.

Today’s the day to pack the library. Lots and lots of books to go into lots of boxes.

See you all later!

SourthernDragon @ 44

Stationed at the naval base in Rota, Spain for a little over two years I was fortunate enough to visit Europe extensively.

I was in Rota from 90-94 with VQ2. When were you there?

Head bobbing music to start the day…

Phish – Bouncing Around the Room

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dULgjQ-nWgg

*sigh*
I got nothin’
but I soo love to read everybody’s stories.

Hoosierville @ 48

Morning all! Great picture Christy & Katymine. Wish I was there.

Lil’ Debbie and Howie at the WaPo both have columns up about, hold on to your seats, “The Clinton Cleavage.” The comments aren’t working though. I knew as soon as I saw the link on the home page “Cleavage and Clinton and the Campaign Chest” is was Howie. GOD. I. DESPISE. THESE. IDIOTS.

Ellen Goodman had an interesting take on it yesterday at the Boston Globe. Her column is also up over at Truthdig.

Morning! Sometimes you gotta do something really different. So this 60 plus urban/suburban/generally sedentary soul is going to spend a week in September hiking and doing some (help!) whitewater rafting at an Elderhostel program in Southwestern North Carolina. Includes a bit of the Appalachian Trail. Nights at a conference center – complete with local storyteller/musician. Mountain vistas, waterfalls, quiet (no cell phone reception), wildflowers and all those things I know so little about. And no news!

Good morning, everyone – I hope!

My world came a crashin’ down yesterday – supposed to have finalized a job offer – packing to move Monday and at end of day – nope – no decision and no time frame. So now no where to go on Monday, as I needed the letter of employment to lease an apt. And did I mention the five senior pets that I foster?

Monday is now looking at euthanizing five animals and me putting stuff in storage.

mornin’ christy

sorry to be ot – you have mail at you fdl addy

best ~ ep

We just returned from a trip to Wildwood, NJ. Spent most of our non-beach time in Cape May. Simply beautiful. Loved it so that we extended our vacation and stayed there one night. Very pricey, though.

N=1, I’m so sorry, that sucks.

It seems to me, though, that the tubes ought to be able to pull together and figure out a way to help the animals.

(((((N=1)))))

Keep us posted please?

N=1 @ 57

Good morning, everyone – I hope!

My world came a crashin’ down yesterday – supposed to have finalized a job offer – packing to move Monday and at end of day – nope – no decision and no time frame. So now no where to go on Monday, as I needed the letter of employment to lease an apt. And did I mention the five senior pets that I foster?

Monday is now looking at euthanizing five animals and me putting stuff in storage.

Oy, sorry to hear that. Don’t know what to say, except take very good care of yourself, or let someone else take care of you.

N=1, my God what a drag. I hope this can be resolved in a good way for both you and your friends.

N=1 @ 57

Good morning, everyone – I hope!

My world came a crashin’ down yesterday – supposed to have finalized a job offer – packing to move Monday and at end of day – nope – no decision and no time frame. So now no where to go on Monday, as I needed the letter of employment to lease an apt. And did I mention the five senior pets that I foster?

Monday is now looking at euthanizing five animals and me putting stuff in storage.

that’s terrible, I’m sorry.

solai @ 59

We just returned from a trip to Wildwood, NJ. Spent most of our non-beach time in Cape May. Simply beautiful. Loved it so that we extended our vacation and stayed there one night. Very pricey, though.

Glad to hear you had a great time at the Jersey shore. Cape May is a beautiful place.

Don’t forget time travel. Yesterday the Tour de France was in Perigord, in Southwestern France, passing through Le Bugue. In the nearby town of Les Eyzies de Tayac there is a cave, the Font de Gaume, decorated 15,000 years ago by our ancestors with bison, mammoths and deer. The paintings were made by lamp light: ledges in the walls are hollowed out, and filled with fat and juniper wicks. Under one ledge, a budding artist sprayed paint around his hand, leaving a print for the amusement of his children, us.

I imagine them walking out of the cave into a late afternoon, the sun setting in front of them over a valley dotted with wild asparagus, walnut trees and wild game, and a river full of fish, and thinking to themselves that life is good.

In my office at home, I have framed photo shots I’ve taken of places I’ve been. Photos from Greece are among my favorites. It’s the magnitude of its glorious history and placidness that are so alluring.

N=1 @ 57

Good morning, everyone – I hope!

My world came a crashin’ down yesterday – supposed to have finalized a job offer – packing to move Monday and at end of day – nope – no decision and no time frame. So now no where to go on Monday, as I needed the letter of employment to lease an apt. And did I mention the five senior pets that I foster?

Monday is now looking at euthanizing five animals and me putting stuff in storage.

I don’t understand the euthanizing part….

solai, if your friend is a baker you might steer her to http://www.recipezaar.com which is a great site with zillions of recipes, and forums on all sorts of cooking areas. I’m a regular visitor to the gardening and herbs forum there, but there’s something for every cooking interest. And the people on the forums seem friendly.

I have to agree with Mr. ReddHedd. Paul Theroux’s early books were interesting and new, and his sometimes snide comments about locale are amusing, but it quickly becomes clear that he really doesn’t like people very much. For good insight on locale, and excellent history, I much prefer the work of Simon Winchester.

I, too, have a new copy of “Places in Between” but as yet unread. I’ve just started reaading “The Story of French,” by Jean-Benoit Nadeau and Julie Barlow . It’s not travel in the strict sense of going-to-see-the-beaches, but rather a history of the French and the language–and of English-speakers and their language, as well, since they borrow heavily from each other. Freedom fries, anyone?

(Well, I tried to add links for those books, but nothing shows in Preview. Technologically inept, I’m afraid.)

recoveringlurker @ 56

Morning! Sometimes you gotta do something really different. So this 60 plus urban/suburban/generally sedentary soul is going to spend a week in September hiking and doing some (help!) whitewater rafting at an Elderhostel program in Southwestern North Carolina. Includes a bit of the Appalachian Trail. Nights at a conference center – complete with local storyteller/musician. Mountain vistas, waterfalls, quiet (no cell phone reception), wildflowers and all those things I know so little about. And no news!

Gottcha! You’re going to Cullowhee! *g* If you’ve not been before, prepare for a treat. The center is beautiful: lots of art work on the walls, delic food, great people, lovely baby lake out front.

Enjoy!

I am almost sorry to bring this up, but the greatest “travel book” of all time is Homer’s Odyssey

Ahh, those “wine-dark seas.”

N=1

If possible, slide the pets into a shelter, temporarily, and get your stuff into storage before Monday.

Hang out with friends who will help you get through the fog of being overwhelmed, while making sensible decisions.

You can get through this – now is the time to lean on your friendships!

Christy,

Funny you should mention Greece. My husband and I took a Cruise last April. Venice and Greece. It was truly magical. Now, when he retires in March next year, we’re planning to move to Corfu, Greece. Believe it or not, the nickname is “The Emerald Isle” not to be confused with…

Great book, Prospero’s Cell by Lawrence Durrell who lived on the island for a few years. Legend has it that Corfu is the setting for The Tempest and also where Odysseus washed ashore in The Odyssey. Magical place. We’re going at Christmas time to check it out in the off-season.

We’re also going to Venice for a few days. If you haven’t read the mysteries by Donna Leon about Venice, they’re a must read.

Good Morning All!

Places to travel: Mr. NJP and I stayed with friends in a small town outside of Barcelona last year, and loved Catalunya. Gaudi architecture [Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, Casa Battlo], delicious jamon and chorizo to eat [and we brought back an authentic recipe for romesco sauce thanks to our wonderful hosts], and a trip to the Costa Brava. Don’t miss the medieval frescos in the MNAC [the art museum], the archaeological excavations of the original Roman settlement in the city history museum [partly under the Episcopal Palace next to the Cathedral], and exploring the fabulous Art Nouveau buildings in Eixample neighborhood. We loved the Miro museum, too. On our next trip we look forward to visiting Parc Guell, the Maritime Museum, and Palau Guell [not enough time for everything during our 4-day visit].

Favorite books:
There’s a wonderful series of books called Companion Guides, written by historians and art historians, about different cities. I adored Georgina Masson’s Companion Guide to Rome, which has you start a two-week visit to the Eternal City at the Campidoglio [the Capitoline Hill], overlooking the ancient Roman Forum at sunset. I’ve never been able to spend that much time in Rome in one trip, but she packs an amazing amount of history and art into one compact volume. Hugh Honour’s Companion Guide to Venice is also a treat. And if you travel in Italy, be sure to buy the Touring Club Italiano guidebooks. They have the best maps, hands down.

When Mr. NJP and I planned our trip to France in the mid-1990s we debated about which region of France to visit for our trip outside of Paris: Normandy, Loire Valley, Provence, hmmmm. The Dordogne was too far, Provence, too. We went to Burgundy, and have congratulated ourselves on a wise choice many times. We got to see ancient Celtic art, Roman ruins, fabulous Romanesque architecture and sculpture, half-timbered houses, and some great Gothic, even a moated chateau! All that while we were eating great food, and drinking great wine. We rented a car in Paris, stayed two night in Auxerre, and two nights in Nuits-St.-George. The highlight: the Cistercian Abbey at Fontenay [think Romanesque meets Shaker: Cistercians forbade ornamental sculpture and stained glass]. We also went off the beaten path in Paris: don’t miss Parc de la Villette in the 19th Arrondisement.

Bon voyages to all the Firepups–whether virtual or actual!

Wordsmith @ 68

N=1 @ 57

Good morning, everyone – I hope!

My world came a crashin’ down yesterday – supposed to have finalized a job offer – packing to move Monday and at end of day – nope – no decision and no time frame. So now no where to go on Monday, as I needed the letter of employment to lease an apt. And did I mention the five senior pets that I foster?

Monday is now looking at euthanizing five animals and me putting stuff in storage.

I don’t understand the euthanizing part….

They are all seniors and special needs animals that shelters couldn’t adopt – fostering was their sole means of not being euthanized. They are old and they are not pretty – that equals three strikes in finding them homes. I can’t afford to board them as each would cost between three and six hundred dollars for a month.

And my back up plan also ended up with the person promising things and then not following through.

Take a lesson: don’t be middle aged, single, female and without family/friends. You might as well carry the plague and wear a sign that says so.

Last weekend we spent the day on Block Island – off the coast of Rhode Island. It’s a lovely place – quite do-able for a day trip, or a weekend, or even a week! The ferry ride is about an hour from the RI mainland.

We rented a moped and buzzed around to see the sites. So fun!

If you go, make sure to see Mohegan Bluffs. I don’t believe there is another spot like it on the east coast. There is an old lighthouse to see, but just a little bit farther up the road is a parking area, and when you walk in, you come to this absolutely incredible view down these cliffs of greenery and clay or sand, and a winding (steep) staircase down to the beach at the bottom.

Breathtaking! This is a must see.

recoveringlurker @ 56

Morning! Sometimes you gotta do something really different. So this 60 plus urban/suburban/generally sedentary soul is going to spend a week in September hiking and doing some (help!) whitewater rafting at an Elderhostel program in Southwestern North Carolina. Includes a bit of the Appalachian Trail. Nights at a conference center – complete with local storyteller/musician. Mountain vistas, waterfalls, quiet (no cell phone reception), wildflowers and all those things I know so little about. And no news!

You are going to love it. this is my part of the world. I worked at a whitewater rafting/kayak place near where you are going. Have fun

Christy notes: My to read pile is always quite large

What? Just one? There must be a to be read pile at bedside, at tableside, at desktop, and in the hammock basket….

Earliest travel reading: wonderful worlds of fantasy and SF, of course. But also, Thor Heyerdahl’s KonTiki and sequels.

We don’t travel so much these days, because of health issues, but revisiting San Francisco this spring and following the same trail in Muir Woods was a joy.

And most weekends, we travel Hwy 34, a designated scenic byway in northern Minnesota that I’ll put up against the Black Hills and New England for beauty any day.

Celebrating good medical news this weekend after obligatory rechecks for two significant health issues for Mr. S.

And definitely celebrating travel news this weekend: after 22 months in Iraq, Moorhead-Fargo area National Guardsmen came home yesterday.

Millineryman @ 65

solai @ 59

We just returned from a trip to Wildwood, NJ. Spent most of our non-beach time in Cape May. Simply beautiful. Loved it so that we extended our vacation and stayed there one night. Very pricey, though.

Glad to hear you had a great time at the Jersey shore. Cape May is a beautiful place.

We love Cape May in the fall, after Audubon Weekend, when all the birders converge on one of the great stops on the Atlantic Flyway. And the prices go down then, too.

Love Loreena McKennitt so will check for her new album.

I was just out to California to see the folks. Travelled across Nevada, up through Vegas to Carson City. You go through some of the old mining camps of Beatty, Goldfield, Tonopah and many small spots on the map. I love the vastness of that country, you can see forever. The formations of mountains, the changing light changes the landscape.

Highway 50 across the center of the state is great to travel across also. Did you know, speaking of train trips, that at one time you could travel from Reno to Las Vegas by rail?

For those who like old railroads, the Nevada Northern operates during the summer as an excursion line out of Ely, Nevada. It uses original equipment from 1910, steam locomotives and passengers cars that have always belonged to the road.

Take a lesson: don’t be middle aged, single, female and without family/friends. You might as well carry the plague and wear a sign that says so.

I’ve always thought “The Woman Who Mothered Herself” was a good title that someone should write a book to. I have family, but couldn’t rely on them or friends during my tribulations. It does get very tiring though.

Waccamaw @ 71

recoveringlurker @ 56

Morning! Sometimes you gotta do something really different. So this 60 plus urban/suburban/generally sedentary soul is going to spend a week in September hiking and doing some (help!) whitewater rafting at an Elderhostel program in Southwestern North Carolina. Includes a bit of the Appalachian Trail. Nights at a conference center – complete with local storyteller/musician. Mountain vistas, waterfalls, quiet (no cell phone reception), wildflowers and all those things I know so little about. And no news!

Gottcha! You’re going to Cullowhee! *g* If you’ve not been before, prepare for a treat. The center is beautiful: lots of art work on the walls, delic food, great people, lovely baby lake out front.

Enjoy!

Actually Highlands, but appears to be same general area. Thanks.

N=1 @ 76 They are all seniors and special needs animals that shelters couldn’t adopt – fostering was their sole means of not being euthanized. They are old and they are not pretty – that equals three strikes in finding them homes. I can’t afford to board them as each would cost between three and six hundred dollars for a month.

And my back up plan also ended up with the person promising things and then not following through.

Take a lesson: don’t be middle aged, single, female and without family/friends. You might as well carry the plague and wear a sign that says so.

N=1, So sorry to hear things are so awful. If folks here can help in any way, speak up. I’m sure people will do what they can.

AZ Matt @ 81

Love Loreena McKennitt so will check for her new album.

I was just out to California to see the folks. Travelled across Nevada, up through Vegas to Carson City. You go through some of the old mining camps of Beatty, Goldfield, Tonopah and many small spots on the map. I love the vastness of that country, you can see forever. The formations of mountains, the changing light changes the landscape.

Highway 50 across the center of the state is great to travel across also. Did you know, speaking of train trips, that at one time you could travel from Reno to Las Vegas by rail?

For those who like old railroads, the Nevada Northern operates during the summer as an excursion line out of Ely, Nevada. It uses original equipment from 1910, steam locomotives and passengers cars that have always belonged to the road.

Rt 50, “The Loneliest Road in America’, it’s always tempting me to go a few mph over the limit.

njprogressive @ 80

Millineryman @ 65

Glad to hear you had a great time at the Jersey shore. Cape May is a beautiful place.

We love Cape May in the fall, after Audubon Weekend, when all the birders converge on one of the great stops on the Atlantic Flyway. And the prices go down then, too.

And don’t forget about the gathering of horseshoe crabs in May that come a shore to lay their eggs providing a buffet for migrating shore birds.

njpro — thanks for the mention of the Georgina Masson book. I’ve my $5 HP coupon to use in August at amazon [linked thru FDL of course!].

Rome is a splendid city well worth many visits. So far, we’ve had one unforgettable one. There is magic in rounding a corner and finding the Colosseum stretching to the sky amid the city bustle. And standing in the shadowy dark cathedrals and strolling the piazzas and walking thru the rain down the Via Veneto and…whew…a virtual instant replay nostalgia moment. Thanks for that, too!

realworld @ 85

N=1, So sorry to hear things are so awful. If folks here can help in any way, speak up. I’m sure people will do what they can.

Thanks to everyone for the moral support. It means much more than I can convey in words!

Millineryman @ 87

njprogressive @ 80

We love Cape May in the fall, after Audubon Weekend, when all the birders converge on one of the great stops on the Atlantic Flyway. And the prices go down then, too.

And don’t forget about the gathering of horseshoe crabs in May that come a shore to lay their eggs providing a buffet for migrating shore birds.

It’s my new favorite place.

Prairie–

What? Just one? There must be a to be read pile at bedside, at tableside, at desktop, and in the hammock basket….

We are kindred spirits! Books everywhere, that’s bliss.

Steve-AR,

US 50, I have taken it from Pueblo, CO to Sacramento, various parts at different times. Takes you through the heart of Colorado – Canon City, Gunnison, Montrose, up to Grand Junction. The stretch from Delta, Utah to Ely is really lonely but way cool!

Morning all — thank goodness for coffee… *g*

N=1 @ 89

realworld @ 85

N=1, So sorry to hear things are so awful. If folks here can help in any way, speak up. I’m sure people will do what they can.

Thanks to everyone for the moral support. It means much more than I can convey in words!

Folks here @ FDL are teh best. Post more about your situation during the day today & those living near you & others who care will come out to help, I would guarantee it. You aren’t alone.

katymine: if you’re tuned in today, email me at mayelinden at yahoo dot com.

I’m going to greece next month with my 11-year old son. Got some Qs for you. Thx.

If the caffeine isn’t getting you going this morning, then watching Ohio Rep. Mike Turner sure will.
I found the video on Think Progress — sorry for my link-inabilities. Just scroll down some on the main page.
You will not believe the nerve, pettiness and stupidity all rolled into one — one who’s so desperately trying to take down someone else.
I’ll be calling Mr. Turner’s offices on Monday to share my opinion.

Marie Roget @ 94

N=1 @ 89

Thanks to everyone for the moral support. It means much more than I can convey in words!

Folks here @ FDL are teh best. Post more about your situation during the day today & those living near you & others who care will come out to help, I would guarantee it. You aren’t alone.

I’m in upstate NY if that helps.
Oh, silly me, there are no jobs here to move for.

recoveringlurker -

Very definitely same neck of the woods. Highlands is a lovely little town; Sept. s/b past the worst of touroid season but before the leafers hit the roads. Beautiful drives into town regardless of direction from which you’re coming. If you have a few minutes to spare and like things Oriental, be sure to check out the store that carries only such merchandise. (Having a senior moment and can’t remember the name but everyone will know the place).

Would be interested to know what conference center Ehostel is using there now.

lisadawn82 @ 52

I was stationed in Rota, working at the Security Department, from 1964-66. I have a great story about a Chief Gunner’s Mate, his family and I having a wonderful lunch with Generalismo Francisco Franco one summer afternoon.

From there it was in and out of the Mekong Delta for almost four years.

solai @ 97
Whereabouts? Going to be visiting family in Fairport in a couple of weeks. Are you anywhere nearby? Thinking I might want to try to get together with FDLers while I’m there.

Greg Palast on PBS NOW does a great job of tying voter caging to the DOJ and firing of David Igelesias and the ongoing investigations.
How secure is your right to vote? NOW investigates a secret Republican plan designed to disqualify voters.
http://www.pbs.org/now/shows/330/video.html

Waccamaw @ 98

recoveringlurker -

Would be interested to know what conference center Ehostel is using there now.

The Mountain Retreat.

solai @ 97

Marie Roget @ 94

Folks here @ FDL are teh best. Post more about your situation during the day today & those living near you & others who care will come out to help, I would guarantee it. You aren’t alone.

I’m in upstate NY if that helps.
Oh, silly me, there are no jobs here to move for.

That little detail of jobs *g*. I’m in Boston and the plan was to relocate to NY. Just need a garage/basement or a shed/barn for shelter and to camp out until I can find another spot….

Going to Williamsburg October for the first time in 30 years. Any helpful hints? I’m told Jamestown is worth visiting too, and saw a new book on it, Savage Kingdom. Does anyone know it that’s worth reading?

‘Morning, Christy and FirePups! Writing from the Great White North, where the temperature is not quite 70 degrees, the breeze is from the north over the greatest of the lakes, and the sun is shining brightly on the waves lapping on the beach.

Going into town to get some business cards printed up for YearlyKos (doggone it, one more detail I forgot to address before leaving home), and then heading to a wonderful annual art festival on the lake.

If this were a postcard, I’d write, “Wish you were here” right about now. ;-)

Marie Roget @ 25

Good morning from L.A. Up early here to proof a friend’s writing, then a walk w/the dogs down San Vicente Blvd. in the mist. Music recommendations? Sure. I’m listening w/headphones so as not to disturb the sleeping housemates- good wakeup music is normally Miles, Monk, or Trane, but this a.m. it’s a wonderful cd by Queen Ida, “Cookin’ with Queen Ida.”

This youtube vid’s got some great Cajun dance hall vibe, too:
Queen Ida & the Bon Temps Zydeco Band- Rosa Majeur

More from Queen Ida to lighten all our loads this day:

Queen Ida & the Bon Temps Band- Raywood

Good Morning everyone…..

So glad one of our favorite taverna’s made the post. They had the BEST moussaka but that was the table after we had espresso and gellato after that fine meal.

My boyfriend and I were saying last night how much we miss Crete. That day we had gone into the city to change the sailing date of the ferry to Athens. We ended changing our plans and staying all but 2 days of our 3 week vacation on Crete and are really glad we did.

The city was bustling until the official lunch time. Poof, the traffic was gone, the streets cleared, shops close and everyone is having their lunch and siesta time.

katymine @ 107

Good Morning everyone…..

So glad one of our favorite taverna’s made the post. They had the BEST moussaka but that was the table after we had espresso and gellato after that fine meal.

My boyfriend and I were saying last night how much we miss Crete. That day we had gone into the city to change the sailing date of the ferry to Athens. We ended changing our plans and staying all but 2 days of our 3 week vacation on Crete and are really glad we did.

The city was bustling until the official lunch time. Poof, the traffic was gone, the streets cleared, shops close and everyone is having their lunch and siesta time.

where did you stay on Crete?
I’m headed for the NE coast next month.

Oh yeah, forgot to add that I’m with RevDeb about the Peter Mayle books, A Year in Provence and Toujours Provence; good beach reading.

Ditto on getting out of Paris. There are enough museums in Paris to do more than 2 a day and never get through them in a 2-week stay — so take a break from the city, get on a train at the Gare du Nord station and head to Monet’s home in Giverny for the day, before heading to your next destination. April-May is wonderful, can see why Monet painted so much of his garden.

AZ Matt @ 92

Steve-AR,

US 50, I have taken it from Pueblo, CO to Sacramento, various parts at different times. Takes you through the heart of Colorado – Canon City, Gunnison, Montrose, up to Grand Junction. The stretch from Delta, Utah to Ely is really lonely but way cool!

A few weeks ago did a quick loop from AR-Santa Fe-Taos-Aspen-Rocky Mt NP-AR. I was shocked by the die-off of the Pine trees. Whole side of mountains were brown except for a few Aspen trees. I assume it’s from the Mountain Bark Beetle…Global Warming and the warm winters and beetle not being killed by cold weather?

Rayne at 105 — Oh yay — one more person to add to my list of folks I’ll get to see in person next week. I’m starting to get really excited. My favorite thing about last year was meeting all of our readers. :)

eCAHNomics @ 100

solai @ 97
Whereabouts? Going to be visiting family in Fairport in a couple of weeks. Are you anywhere nearby? Thinking I might want to try to get together with FDLers while I’m there.

I’m midway between Albany and Syracuse. So, a couple of hours from Fairport.
However, if you did get something together, say a meet-up at Turning Stone C*sino or somewhere in Syracuse, I’d be close enough to join you.

52,375 veterans treated or evaluated for PTSD after Iraq or Afghanistan
Newly released reports show that the Department of Veterans Affairs alone is responsible for that many; only 19,000 have received disability benefits.
A nonpublic report from the Department of Veterans Affairs sent to ……
http://www.salon.com/news/prim…..newsletter

Beautiful Christy you have all ready taken us on quite a journey this morning. Thank you for the book recommendations and sharing your dreams about more travel in your life. I really like that you and Redd have made a fair and balanced agreement (personal relationships obviously take compromise just as political relationships do) to travel to places that you both want to see.

I traveled a great deal with my three daughters as they were growing up, mostly in the states, a great deal of time on the big island of Hawaii and in central America. I have sent my daughters to Europe but have not been there myself. Travels can certainly open up ones scope of the planet and the people that inhabit it. But not always. I have met people who have not traveled more than several hours out of their surroundings and they have more understanding, compassion and empathy for those on this planet than some folks that I know who have traveled a great deal.

I want to travel all of the time (I am a gypsy at heart). But I am struggling with the morals and politics of travel more now than anytime in my life. (sorry if I am bringing anyone down). The reality of the burning of fuels and what it does to our planet and the people in the countries that we access fuel from has me questioning this addiction to travel like I never have before.

Has this war in Iraq changed anyones driving or travel habits?

I stayed in the small town of Piskopanio which is up the hill from Hersonissou (used to live in that town 30 years ago). The hotel is Amazones Villa Suites and booked through booking dot com which is THE European travel booking site.

I have all the contact info of the hotel. Let me know if you are interested. The staff is wonderful and breakfast is included.

eCAHN at 104 — Last time I was in Williamsburg (and wow, it has been a while…), we ate at the King’s Arms — a tavern and “chop house.” They had the most amazing popovers — light, fluffy, crispy on the edges with that perfect bit of steamed pudding taste on the inside. Really wonderful, and the atmosphere there was lovely. If you want a nice sit-down meal, it’s a good choice — although a bit on the pricey side, as I recall.

OT but couldn’t help it… .

Is Gonzo a liar? Of course he is!

With Gonzales Under Fire, FBI Violation Gains Notice
Senator Says ‘04 Case Adds to Concerns About Candor

By John Solomon
Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, July 28, 2007; Page A03

Two weeks before President Bush won reelection in 2004, the FBI sent a rare report to its overseers: One of its agents had engaged in a willful and intentional violation of a law by improperly collecting financial records during a national security investigation.

The FBI concluded that the actions of the rookie agent amounted to “intelligence activities that . . . may be unlawful or contrary to executive order or presidential directive,” according to a declassified memo from Oct. 21, 2004.

The incident was deemed serious enough for the bureau to notify both the President’s Intelligence Oversight Board and the Justice Department, and to consider punishing the agent.

The violation was the only one after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks that the FBI has specifically flagged as intentional. But it has attracted fresh attention because Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales testified six months later that no “verified case of civil liberties abuse” had occurred since the USA Patriot Act was enacted.

Gonzales told senators this week that his use of the word “abuse” was meant to narrowly refer only to intentional violations. “My view and the views of other leadership in the department is, in fact, when we’re talking about abuses of the Patriot Act, we’re talking about intentional, deliberate misuse of the Patriot Act,” he testified Tuesday in explaining his 2005 remarks.

…

Good article in the NYT this morning, putting the DLC on notice that they are now irrelevant. A mention of Lamont v. Lieberman as an illustration.

solai @ 112

eCAHNomics @ 100

solai @ 97
Whereabouts? Going to be visiting family in Fairport in a couple of weeks. Are you anywhere nearby? Thinking I might want to try to get together with FDLers while I’m there.

I’m midway between Albany and Syracuse. So, a couple of hours from Fairport.
However, if you did get something together, say a meet-up at Turning Stone C*sino or somewhere in Syracuse, I’d be close enough to join you.

Thanks. Probably won’t work. My brother is ill, which is the purpose of the visit, so I can’t venture too far.

Christy Hardin Smith @ 116

eCAHN at 104 — Last time I was in Williamsburg (and wow, it has been a while…), we ate at the King’s Arms — a tavern and “chop house.” They had the most amazing popovers — light, fluffy, crispy on the edges with that perfect bit of steamed pudding taste on the inside. Really wonderful, and the atmosphere there was lovely. If you want a nice sit-down meal, it’s a good choice — although a bit on the pricey side, as I recall.

WOW, I think I remember those popovers! Thanks for reminding me. Will certainly do.

N=1: oh no! hang in there, this rough patch will pass. For your poor animals, is there any way you can quickly rally help for them? Signs in vet’s offices – Saturday morning is prime vet time – for emergency shelter. Also, call the Humane Society, and ask for their suggestions. Good luck to you,and may you and your little family be all together in a new happy place soon.

Steve-AR,

The droughts have weakened many of the trees in the southwest so the bark beetles have been very damaging.

Morning Christy.

Good morning dear friends.

Not a big reader of travel books, but I’ll jump in to the lake and share the morning with you.

My hubby is British, and grew up all over the world, so travel is a committed part of our lives. When you’re ready to island hop in greece consider a tall ship Starclipper as Ithaca was one of our finest adventures.Cavafy

With very odd fortune we happened to be one of about 12 americans that traveled to Egypt weeks after 9/11, and I have to say the scare was well worth it for crowdless pyramids and visits to wonders that most cannot see. They tomb of nefertari Nefertarihas been restored and can only be breathed on by 150 people a day…I

For Egypt travel snark you must look no farther than Mark Twain’s Innocents Abroad, this passage of climbing the great pyramid is as arrogant and insanely funny as any writing could ever be:

The traditional Arab proposed, in the traditional way, to run down Cheops, cross the eighth of a mile of sand intervening between it and the tall pyramid of Cephron, ascend to Cephron’s summit and return to us on the top of Cheops–all in nine minutes by the watch, and the whole service to be rendered for a single dollar. In the first flush of irritation, I said let the Arab and his exploits go to the mischief. But stay. The upper third of Cephron was coated with dressed marble, smooth as glass. A blessed thought entered my brain. He must infallibly break his neck. Close the contract with dispatch, I said, and let him go. He started. We watched. He went bounding down the vast broadside, spring after spring, like an ibex. He grew small and smaller till he became a bobbing pigmy, away down toward the bottom–then disappeared. We turned and peered over the other side–forty seconds–eighty seconds– a hundred–happiness, he is dead already!–two minutes–and a quarter– “There he goes!” Too true–it was too true. He was very small, now. Gradually, but surely, he overcame the level ground. He began to spring and climb again. Up, up, up–at last he reached the smooth coating–now for it. But he clung to it with toes and fingers, like a fly. He crawled this way and that–away to the right, slanting upward–away to the left, still slanting upward–and stood at last, a black peg on the summit, and waved his pigmy scarf! Then he crept downward to the raw steps again, then picked up his agile heels and flew. We lost him presently. But presently again we saw him under us, mounting with undiminished energy. Shortly he bounded into our midst with a gallant war-whoop. Time, eight minutes, forty-one seconds. He had won. His bones were intact. It was a failure. I reflected. I said to myself, he is tired, and must grow dizzy. I will risk another dollar on him

We were too wilted by costa rica to brave the temperatures of Angor Wat this year, so we are visiting alaska instead, Wilderness passage Wish us luck!

AZ Matt @ 121

Steve-AR,

The droughts have weakened many of the trees in the southwest so the bark beetles have been very damaging.

Any natural defenses against the bark beetle or is it an invader?

1) N=1, do post more about your situation.

2) Places I’ve been:

— Guaymas, Mexico (1971). West Coast.
Sea of Cortez. Where “Catch 22″
was filmed. Breathtakingly beautiful.

— White Mountains, New Hampshire
(1980s and 1990s). Some great
places to hike (and build an
appetite).

— Provinces around Ho Chi Minh City
(1994). Beautiful, wild.

— Cochise County, Arizona (over the years).
Birds. Birds. Desert. Mountains.
Ghost towns. Birds. Beautiful. Birds.

carolyn urban @ 120

N=1: oh no! hang in there, this rough patch will pass. For your poor animals, is there any way you can quickly rally help for them? Signs in vet’s offices – Saturday morning is prime vet time – for emergency shelter. Also, call the Humane Society, and ask for their suggestions. Good luck to you,and may you and your little family be all together in a new happy place soon.

Great suggestions and thanks! Already did that – no shelter has room – it’s puppy and kitten season and also the time that students dump their academic year pets. That’s why I have these old animals -there is never room for the oldies or “unbeautiful” ones. I think the only place we’ll be together is on the curb.

this is Stina Nordenstam was my favorite album of a couple years back
found every one else in the world on youtube

AZ Matt @ 117

OT but couldn’t help it… .

Is Gonzo a liar? Of course he is!

With Gonzales Under Fire, FBI Violation Gains Notice
Senator Says ‘04 Case Adds to Concerns About Candor

By John Solomon
Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, July 28, 2007; Page A03

Two weeks before President Bush won reelection in 2004, the FBI sent a rare report to its overseers: One of its agents had engaged in a willful and intentional violation of a law by improperly collecting financial records during a national security investigation.

The FBI concluded that the actions of the rookie agent amounted to “intelligence activities that . . . may be unlawful or contrary to executive order or presidential directive,” according to a declassified memo from Oct. 21, 2004.

The incident was deemed serious enough for the bureau to notify both the President’s Intelligence Oversight Board and the Justice Department, and to consider punishing the agent.

The violation was the only one after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks that the FBI has specifically flagged as intentional. But it has attracted fresh attention because Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales testified six months later that no “verified case of civil liberties abuse” had occurred since the USA Patriot Act was enacted.

Gonzales told senators this week that his use of the word “abuse” was meant to narrowly refer only to intentional violations. “My view and the views of other leadership in the department is, in fact, when we’re talking about abuses of the Patriot Act, we’re talking about intentional, deliberate misuse of the Patriot Act,” he testified Tuesday in explaining his 2005 remarks.

…

And with John Solomon’s by-line, it also raises the question as to who fed him the information since he’s one of the top stenographers going. Very little if any independent reporting but great at getting the hatchet word out on anyone.

I want to travel all of the time (I am a gypsy at heart). But I am struggling with the morals and politics of travel more now than anytime in my life. (sorry if I am bringing anyone down). The reality of the burning of fuels and what it does to our planet and the people in the countries that we access fuel from has me questioning this addiction to travel like I never have before.

Has this war in Iraq changed anyones driving or travel habits?

It really has. I have never liked, nor embraced, this culture of consumerism. But recently I have dramatically changed what I do buy spend or use. I use everything, from tap water to paper to electricity, as if is indeed precious; or the way you might on a boat, where supplies are limited and dwindling.

I’ve cut down my driving by – about one third. Combining trips, cancelling anything non essential. Recently drove over to Maine, a beautiful drive through the White Mountains and small towns in Western Maine woods – one I usually enjoy. This time I felt guilty. A long trip by car, just for pleasure! This has got to be a thing of the past.

Oh, I’m planning a trip . . . and I’m taking everything with me. Everything, except for the stuff going to the church rummage sale and Goodwill. Two days until the moving van arrives, to take us from the SF Bay area to the Kansas City area.

But along the way, we’re stopping at Rocky Mountain National Park, and whatever other wonderful parks appeal to us on the spur of the moment. We’ve got 7 days to get from here to there, and we’re going to make the most of it.

But meanwhile, packing is a real pain. Two days ago, I’d taken my car key off the keyring when I got the car checked out by the local mechanic. Twenty minutes after I got home with the car, the key disappeared. Gone. Disappeared. Disapparated (for you Potter fans!). I don’t know how I did it, but all I can think of is that somehow, I managed to pack away my key to our car.

It’s gonna be a fun trip.

Elliot, the trees are resistant to the bark beetle until they are stressed with drought. We are 10 years or so into this drought cycle with lakes completely gone and about a third of our AZ forests infested with the beetle.

Met two archaeologists on a flight who were coming to AZ to work ruins that were uncovered by the low water levels at Lake Mead.

Elliott @ 125

AZ Matt @ 121

Steve-AR,

The droughts have weakened many of the trees in the southwest so the bark beetles have been very damaging.

Any natural defenses against the bark beetle or is it an invader?

Rain will help get the sap in the trees flowing again so pitch can trap them.

I’m putting too much of a damper on this otherwise great thread. If anyone has ideas, or could offer work in xchange for shelter, I’m at univrslhealth at gmail dot com. (I will be happy to fire a resume to you about my real world info). Thanks again, everyone – I really, really, REALLY appreciate your support and ideas and genuine caring!

And I apologize for the gloomy stuff I wrote.

N=1 @ 103

solai @ 97

I’m in upstate NY if that helps.
Oh, silly me, there are no jobs here to move for.

That little detail of jobs *g*. I’m in Boston and the plan was to relocate to NY. Just need a garage/basement or a shed/barn for shelter and to camp out until I can find another spot….

Where in NY? For what it’s worth, I’m in Albany — anywhere near here?

Not a damper N=1, we are all concerned, and want to find a way to help. Please do not go silent on us. You’ve got great brains here to pick.

Off to Flagstaff, catch you all later…!

N=1 @ 134

I’m putting too much of a damper on this otherwise great thread. If anyone has ideas, or could offer work in xchange for shelter, I’m at univrslhealth at gmail dot com. (I will be happy to fire a resume to you about my real world info). Thanks again, everyone – I really, really, REALLY appreciate your support and ideas and genuine caring!

And I apologize for the gloomy stuff I wrote.

Don’t worry about gloomy. Perhaps we can help. What state are you in? Going to? Perhaps there are firepups nearby.

The travel industry is a huge revenue producer for our economy and the Thugs are trying to kill it.

This is F***ing unbelievable:

US demands, Europe agrees to provide, info on whether foreign travelers to US are gay, union members, religious beliefs

http://www.americablog.com/

Nemo @ 135

N=1 @ 103

That little detail of jobs *g*. I’m in Boston and the plan was to relocate to NY. Just need a garage/basement or a shed/barn for shelter and to camp out until I can find another spot….

Where in NY? For what it’s worth, I’m in Albany — anywhere near here?

Just outside of Utica. Frankfort

Have you tried the Animal Rescue League? I’m googling “Boston emergency pet shelter” and finding a lot of hits. There’s Boston Dog Shelter and Kitty Angels -

Two things: 1) LM’s An Ancient Muse is excellent–go buy it straight away!, 2) LM is going on tour this fall. Exact dates have not been announced yet, but if you get on her record label’s mailing list, you’ll get them by email, and probably be able to buy concert tickets ahead of when they go on general sale. I saw her perform in Chicago a few months back and she puts on a great show!

Hope @ 77

Last weekend we spent the day on Block Island – off the coast of Rhode Island. It’s a lovely place – quite do-able for a day trip, or a weekend, or even a week! The ferry ride is about an hour from the RI mainland.

We rented a moped and buzzed around to see the sites. So fun!

If you go, make sure to see Mohegan Bluffs. I don’t believe there is another spot like it on the east coast. There is an old lighthouse to see, but just a little bit farther up the road is a parking area, and when you walk in, you come to this absolutely incredible view down these cliffs of greenery and clay or sand, and a winding (steep) staircase down to the beach at the bottom.

Breathtaking! This is a must see.

Block Island rocks, we spent many a week there. It has become pricey and “discovered” so there is a lot more people there than there was. Glad you enjoyed your day!

Good Morning All,
I was stationed for a year and a half in Cyprus while in the Navy and absolutely fell in love with the Greek culture(Turkish too for that matter.) I see a lot of Europe in my travels but Greece is the best followed closely by Tuscany and then Provence.
Speaking of travel books two of the best are by Peter Mayle about his adventures in buying a farm and moving to France from the UK. “A Year in Provence” and “Toujour Provence”. Great reading and some good “foodie” stuff as well.
We are finally getting a nice little rain in Atlanta….Thank You Goddess and the walk was fabulous this morning in the light drizzle.

katymine @ 115

I stayed in the small town of Piskopanio which is up the hill from Hersonissou (used to live in that town 30 years ago). The hotel is Amazones Villa Suites and booked through booking dot com which is THE European travel booking site.

I have all the contact info of the hotel. Let me know if you are interested. The staff is wonderful and breakfast is included.

Thanks.
I’m already booked into Istron Bay (between Ag. Nicholas and Elounda). I’m only in Crete for four nights. We’re coming there from Santorini, then on to Istanbul.

I’ve never read a travel book. I think I’ve been missing out. Going to re-read these comments for suggestions.

Is there going to be any meeting of the firepups at YKOS2?

carolyn urban @ 140

Have you tried the Animal Rescue League? I’m googling “Boston emergency pet shelter” and finding a lot of hits. There’s Boston Dog Shelter and Kitty Angels -

All full – in fact, my rescue contact person said that she has been informed (and she’s on the inside) that no one – shelter or rescue – has any spots anywhere. Not an option. I used to run a sanctuary for senior and special needs – these are animals left over when that went belly up – no donors for ugly and old animals. I’m pretty clued in about the scarcity of resources for them.

somethingsrotten @ 147

Is there going to be any meeting of the firepups at YKOS2?

Haven’t heard yet, but sounds like there will be a lot os us there.

Done traveling for a while unless you count Kings Island as travel!

Been listening to Bruce’s Live in Dublin…great interptretations of some old songs like “Growing Up’ and “Blinded by the Light” as well as lots of gospel, NOLA jazz protest songs. “How can a poor man stand such times and live?” is amazing.

Nemo @ 134

Where in NY? For what it’s worth, I’m in Albany — anywhere near here?

NYC metro area – I no longer drive and need to be where there’s public transport. Also licensed to practice in NY, hence the job search there.

carolyn urban @ 141

Have you tried the Animal Rescue League? I’m googling “Boston emergency pet shelter” and finding a lot of hits. There’s Boston Dog Shelter and Kitty Angels -

How about vets? I got two of the cats I have from a veterinarian who was ‘housing’ them and had been for almost a year. One of my little guys has half a jaw (tangled with an auto), but he’s a beautiful cat and very sweet-natured.

N=1, my heart breaks for you. If I was in the Boston area, like I was many years ago, I would help out. I am sure there are other firepups around there. We need to round them up.

Hi TexB, I’m back, but heading into SA for classes in a bit.

Gnome de Plume @ 153

N=1, my heart breaks for you. If I was in the Boston area, like I was many years ago, I would help out. I am sure there are other firepups around there. We need to round them up.

Hi TexB, I’m back, but heading into SA for classes in a bit.

Welcome back my friend!

Wow! Gnome de Plume really is a Gnome!

retirin’ in five @ 155

Wow! Gnome de Plume really is a Gnome!

teeheehee. Glad to see someone does use facebook. If you want to be a friend, you will see that I am really a dog . . .*g*

N=1

There is a huge referral network in the NE area.
StandUpForAnimals is a part of it.
They are well-connected.
(just check out their fundraising status).
410.348.9595

SUFA trustees are connected with the Westerly, RI Animal Shelter,
which is open until 3:30 on Saturdays.
I strongly encourage you to give them a call.
They would do everything possible to help you.
*especially the scruffy ones*
401.348.2558

(((N=1 & co.)))

Wordsmith @ 151

carolyn urban @ 141

Have you tried the Animal Rescue League? I’m googling “Boston emergency pet shelter” and finding a lot of hits. There’s Boston Dog Shelter and Kitty Angels -

yes-same situation -no room at the inn – and I haven’t found anywhere for me at this point, either.

How about vets? I got two of the cats I have from a veterinarian who was ‘housing’ them and had been for almost a year. One of my little guys has half a jaw (tangled with an auto), but he’s a beautiful cat and very sweet-natured.

excellent story —

Teens March Across U.S. to Protest War

By MIKE WILSON, Associated Press

Two teens from opposite coasts are marching across the country for peace,
hoping to gain followers and attention with each step.

Ashley Casale, 19, of Clinton Corners, N.Y., and Michael Israel, 18, of
Jackson, Calif., had hoped others who oppose the war in Iraq would join them
on their 3,000-mile walk from San Francisco to Washington.

However, since they started off May 21, it’s just been the two of them for
the most part.

‘Although it’s always nice to have as many people as possible, it’s more
about the message and we haven’t been disappointed there aren’t tons of
people walking,’ Casale said.

It wasn’t what Casale planned when she started a Web site and sent fliers to
colleges nationwide to promote what she called the ‘March for Peace.’ Still,
after 1,600 miles and three pairs of sandals, she seemed satisfied with the
march’s progress.

The two met 10 minutes before beginning their journey. Casale just finished
her freshman year at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, and Israel recently
graduated from high school.

Israel learned of the anti-war walk from the Web site. ‘I was looking for
something bigger to do than just a weekend rally,’ he said.

On Wednesday, the two stopped for lunch in Montezuma. Wearing T-shirts and
displaying deep tans, the two described the blisters and achy knees they
have endured as they crossed the western deserts, the Rocky Mountains and
the Great Plains.

(more)

Good to see the gang again, but I gotta run. Mr. Gnome took the Gnomobile (the one with the Pelosi for President ‘07 bumpersticker) to Houston this morning because the land yacht was making funny noises. So I have to borrow one of my dad’s vehicles to get to me class! Grrrrr.

N=1 @ 57

Good morning, everyone – I hope!

My world came a crashin’ down yesterday – supposed to have finalized a job offer – packing to move Monday and at end of day – nope – no decision and no time frame. So now no where to go on Monday, as I needed the letter of employment to lease an apt. And did I mention the five senior pets that I foster?

Monday is now looking at euthanizing five animals and me putting stuff in storage.

Having held the last three cats to depart our household as they gave up the ghost, you have my strongest sympathy. I hope that work and housing come your way immediately, too.

Gnome de Plume @ 156

retirin’ in five @ 155

Wow! Gnome de Plume really is a Gnome!

teeheehee. Glad to see someone does use facebook. If you want to be a friend, you will see that I am really a dog . . .*g*

I too tubes-ignorant to get beyond the ability just to look at the photos. And crashed the whole computer earlier trying to look at one of the posters. Please consider me a friend in Facebook absentia, though.

lina @ 145

I’m already booked into Istron Bay (between Ag. Nicholas and Elounda). I’m only in Crete for four nights. We’re coming there from Santorini, then on to Istanbul.

Great coast, we drove this and it very beautiful. If you can, get the tour of Spinalonga Island which has a Venetian Fort. We drove across the bridge to the first island but did not take the tour to the Fort.

The interesting thing about Athens, they moved their International Airport way outside of Athens, behind one of the hills. What was amazing was sitting in the Taverna overlooking the Acropli and not seeing one thing in the sky for hours. Not a helicopter, light plane or commercial traffic.

N=1,

I just sent you an emial, but misunderstood — thought you were going to be in Utica. NYC is about 2 1/2 hrs from Albany. Our shelter is also full — I just checked, but maybe someone in the greater NY region can also try to find help.

CHS For about 35 years I have also had a fascination with Afghanistan. Especially after a girlfriend travelled around Afghanistan back in the 70’s wearing a burga (not in all parts of the country) Her stories sparked my interest.I followed what was going on in Afghanistan during the 70’s ,80’s and 90’s and was deeply concerned when we abandoned the Afghani people.

I have now become friends with a young man who is studying communications here in the states on a Fulbright. He has four young children and a wife, along with 12 siblings, mother, father and many other relatives in Afghanistan. His wife and children are unable to come to the states while he is here due to all of the travel restrictions after 9/11. He had to go through in depth investigations by intelligence organizations to come to study here (as it should be he believes), but that does not keep him from desperately missing his wife, children and the rest of his family.

He communicates with his family weekly and shares some of what they talk about. During the last year and a half that I have been talking with him they continue to let him know that the situation in Afghanistan is getting much much worse. So bad that they fear for him when it comes time for him to return. Three of his cousins have been killed in the last several months due to working with the U.S.

They also share that the U.S. is not spending enough time and money building the police force that would hopefully be able sustain safety and order, and that many people are leaning towards the Taliban due to the past security that they felt when the Taliban were in power.

They have let him know that not enough time and money is being spent on building an infrastructure that would help with an economic transition for farmers from growing poppies to growing almonds, grapes, pomegrantes etc.(many orchards were destroyed during the war with Russia). While he shares that the money made from these crops would not come close to the money made from growing poppies. Many Afghanis believe that if money was spent on building manufacturing plants to turn almonds into almond butter or grapes into wine and exporting these products to expensive health food stores (hello Wild Oats) and other outlets that this would provide a new economic possibilities that would provide the income that farmers need to take care of their families.

The Bush administration took their eye off of the ball in Afghanistan and one has to wonder if that was part of the plan.

He recently attended a conference in Chicago where 62 students(all on Fulbrights) from Afghanistan got together to share their insights and ideas about what they have learned here in the states and what they hope to be able to take back to their country. ( I tried to get the Diane Rehm show to cover this conference, instead of interviewing American women who have opened beauty shops in Afghanistan)
http://wamu.org/programs/dr/07/04/12.php#13000. While I think the Rehm show is one of the best things going in the MSM, I thought and my friend agreed that this show was a waste of time.(he has agreed that I can share some of his story but not his name at this point). More serious and substantive issues to cover about Afghanistan at this point.

I have been thinking about bringing him to the Yearly Kos gathering (since he is studying communications) He can not afford to come and since I am trying to get my youngest through college I can barely come myself. Would anyone be into providing a Yearly Kos scholarship for him?( I could put you in direct contact )

solai @ 22

In August of 2001, Mr.Solai and I had to choose between a trip to London or Spain. The trip to Spain included a day in Moracco, which was really intriguing. London won out and we thought we’d do Spain/Moracco another time. Then 9/11 hit. I regret that decision. I don’t know if I’ll ever get there now.

Oh, solai, go. A girlfriend and I visited Spain and Portugal the summer before last, they are both wonderful. Plan several days in Barcelona to study Gaudi. The food there is the best in all of Spain in my opinion. Madrid is the greenest city in all of Europe, and of course the Prada is a must-see. My daughter did a study abroad in Spain last summer and visited Morocco with friends. I didn’t know she was going, but all went well and she loved it.

Don’t plan on using your Spanish in Portugal, doesn’t work. Portugal is like a big hug. The people are so nice and the countryside so beautiful.

I’ve got three young ones at home, which really has put a damper on our traveling at the moment. We go up to northern Ontario every couple of years which is always nice, but not terribly exotic.

One of my favorite vacations ever was visiting Praque shortly after the end of communism. What an amazing city!

I always enjoy the mountains too.

As far as music, the sound of my children fighting has been the only ‘music’ I’ve heard today so far. However, if you like the ethereal, surreal sounds of Lorena McKinnet you may like to check out this site the home page will load a song from an album a friend of mine and I did several years ago. It’s definitely not for everyone, but you may enjoy it.

Oh, I did hear some actual music briefly as I ran into town for a quick errand this morning. I had Widespread Panic’s Space Wrangler in the car CD player. I always enjoy that album.

N=1 @ 148

carolyn urban @ 140

Have you tried the Animal Rescue League? I’m googling “Boston emergency pet shelter” and finding a lot of hits. There’s Boston Dog Shelter and Kitty Angels -

All full – in fact, my rescue contact person said that she has been informed (and she’s on the inside) that no one – shelter or rescue – has any spots anywhere. Not an option. I used to run a sanctuary for senior and special needs – these are animals left over when that went belly up – no donors for ugly and old animals. I’m pretty clued in about the scarcity of resources for them.

N=1 – At the point and with huge disruptions you (and they) are facing, euthanizing them might be the kindest thing you can do for old, not-too-healthy animals. And for yourself – you can only do what you can do.

I know this sounds heartless – I love my pets, but I’m not sentimental about them – and I have seen people clinging to old, sick pets for their own sake, not the animals sake.

http://www.amazon.com/Sex-Live…..amp;sr=8-1

Troosts’ “The Sex Lives of Cannibals” – hardly the most serious travel book you will ever read, but likely one of the funniest!

TribeScribe @ 156

N=1

There is a huge referral network in the NE area.
StandUpForAnimals is a part of it.
They are well-connected.
(just check out their fundraising status).
410.348.9595

SUFA trustees are connected with the Westerly, RI Animal Shelter,
which is open until 3:30 on Saturdays.
I strongly encourage you to give them a call.
They would do everything possible to help you.
*especially the scruffy ones*
401.348.2558

(((N=1 & co.)))

I have no way to even get to Westerly, but thanks for the thought and the terrific suggestion. I did email them with all of the pertinent animal info and their location in case they have ideas for my neck of the woods.

Fern at 168.

It is a very difficult decision saying good bye to old friends, one we had to face with Gray Kitty (16) and Black Kitty (18) both, in the last few years. And a decision to be faced again with Black Dog (12) and White Dog (10) in the future. Hopefully, not too soon. Hang in there N-1.

This morning on NPR’s Scott Simons morning program Senior News Analyst Daniel Schorr summarized this week as a “continuing battle of two branches of government” focused on contempt and perjury.

http://www.npr.org/templates/s…..d=12323858

By the way, it sounds like the US is embracing the Salvador Option in Iraq and has begun to create Sunni militias and deathsquads, unvetted but well armed, so that Iraq is definately going to slip into chaos.

Congratulations!

Add in the 20 billion rush job of weapons to Saudi Arabia and I do think we have the makings for a nice apocalyptic battle brewing.

-GSD

I am enjoying one of life’s very simple pleasures this morning. My son is highly allergic to strawberries and I almost never keep them in the house. But he’s with my parents for a few weeks and so I have two beautiful and tasty strawberries cut up in my cereal right now. And enjoying a quiet breakfast with some of my firepup friends online. :)

Fern @ 167

N=1 – At the point and with huge disruptions you (and they) are facing, euthanizing them might be the kindest thing you can do for old, not-too-healthy animals. And for yourself – you can only do what you can do.

I know this sounds heartless – I love my pets, but I’m not sentimental about them – and I have seen people clinging to old, sick pets for their own sake, not the animals sake.

They aren’t sick – they’re just old and have disfigurements. But I am very familiar with euthanizing for quality of life issues – when I had the sanctuary I provided both hospice care for animals that were fading, but not suffering, and euthanasia for animals that were in pain. I, too, am not sentimental – can’t afford to be.

N-1, Myles Standish Campground in South Carver, MA accepts dogs on a leash. $12 a night. I have friends that go horse-camping there (at least, they used to).

GSD @ 173

By the way, it sounds like the US is embracing the Salvador Option in Iraq and has begun to create Sunni militias and deathsquads, unvetted but well armed, so that Iraq is definately going to slip into chaos.

Congratulations!

Add in the 20 billion rush job of weapons to Saudi Arabia and I do think we have the makings for a nice apocalyptic battle brewing.

-GSD

Sepoy Rebellion anyone? NYT already mentioned in a story a week or more ago that U.S. trained Iraqis were starting to fight U.S. troops.

and a zed to top it all off!

Fern @ 168

N=1 – At the point and with huge disruptions you (and they) are facing, euthanizing them might be the kindest thing you can do for old, not-too-healthy animals. And for yourself – you can only do what you can do.

I know this sounds heartless – I love my pets, but I’m not sentimental about them – and I have seen people clinging to old, sick pets for their own sake, not the animals sake.

I’ve been sitting or wandering about cleaning & thinking about this. I agree with Fern. I love my cats, especially my littlest one. (I mean, I’d drag ‘em everywhere I go if they’d come!) I’m fortunate….I have family who would take all of my cats, especially my half-jawed boy (’cuz he’s so sweet), plus my dad still has our farm – if something were to happen.

I worked for a radiology group that did MRIs on very sick animals (primarily dogs & cats) and sentimentality is not a good quality to trial on severely ill patients.

You have to do what’s best for them – ultimately.

Add in the 20 billion rush job of weapons to Saudi Arabia and I do think we have the makings for a nice apocalyptic battle brewing.

I suspect the Saudi military couldn’t fight their way out of a paper bag if their lives depended on it. Selling them billions in military equipment, which they don’t know how to use & maintain, is just to support U.S. military contractors.

N-1, you want me to keep looking for more campgrounds that accept pets?

TexB @ 178

and a zed to top it all off!

I so totally do not ever GET the excitement of this.

Boston1775 @ 176

N-1, Myles Standish Campground in South Carver, MA accepts dogs on a leash. $12 a night. I have friends that go horse-camping there (at least, they used to).

That’s interesting – I checked it out – I don’t drive – no car – and no internet access – I need to job hunt. But great idea, and I’ll try to think of something that I could make work. Anyone have a barn/shed/garage shelter?

Thanks, Boston, for the idea.

eCAHNomics @ 180

Add in the 20 billion rush job of weapons to Saudi Arabia and I do think we have the makings for a nice apocalyptic battle brewing.

I suspect the Saudi military couldn’t fight their way out of a paper bag if their lives depended on it. Selling them billions in military equipment, which they don’t know how to use & maintain, is just to support U.S. military contractors.

It does sound like laundry, doesn’t it…

The hike to Valley of 10000 Smokes out in Katmai National is nice.

Anyone who stands there unaffected by the physical beauty is – well – I dunno, dead?

Knowing you are seeing the results of events long ago, the power of volcano and glacier activity is overwhelming.

GSD @ 173

By the way, it sounds like the US is embracing the Salvador Option in Iraq and has begun to create Sunni militias and deathsquads, unvetted but well armed, so that Iraq is definately going to slip into chaos.

….

-GSD

I’ve thought this from early, early on. We’re doing the same thing in Iraq that was done in South, though primarily, Central America. It’s just more overt – truly, more “in your face.”

N=1 @ 57

Good morning, everyone – I hope!

My world came a crashin’ down yesterday – supposed to have finalized a job offer – packing to move Monday and at end of day – nope – no decision and no time frame. So now no where to go on Monday, as I needed the letter of employment to lease an apt. And did I mention the five senior pets that I foster?

Monday is now looking at euthanizing five animals and me putting stuff in storage.

That is awful news! Try talking to your local animal shelter or animal rescue people. Tell them your dilemma, and ask them if they can hold the pets for a bit until you get your stuff together. Put your stuff in storage if you need to. Check out local motels. You can usually rent something on a weekly or monthly basis. Good luck!

N=1

here are 2 other NK/long-term shelters in your area
that may accommodate a temporary housing situation
& be especially equipped for older/special care pets:

Animal Umbrella
Revere, MA
617.731.7267

Stray Pets in Need, Inc (of MA)
Natick, MA
781.235.1218

Sometimes they have volunteers with pickups or
vans who will do transport.
Best wishes!

As far as travelogues go, I don’t think you can do better than “Black Lamb and Grey Falcon” by Rebecca West. It’s this massive, deep, funny, interesting book about her travels in Yugoslavia in ‘37, just before WWII. Bonus quote from Dame West…

“I myself have never been able to find out what feminism is; I only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a doormat or a prostitute.”

Favorite place to travel? I’d have to say going for a walk in Prague at dawn…

N = 1
I have room in my country house, 85 miles from NYC, but transportation without car is awkward. I do it weekends: involves convenient 1-1/2 hour bus to NYC, but have to take $10 taxi to or from house & bus station.

NYC apt full with me, my adult son, & his cat. But if you can think of a way to get him to move out . . .

solai @ 32

solai: you guys might find wingofmadness.com would help …

N=1, and one more:
Animal Rescue League of Boston
617.426.9170

now, back to regular program….

new thread

TribeScribe @ 188

N=1

here are 2 other NK/long-term shelters in your area

Thanks! Called them both – both short of volunteers and space, but thanks so much for the contact info. I didn’t know of them before.

When you practice international tax law, you get to travel to exotic places and spend all your time in conference rooms and document repositories. I try to go over a day early and squeeze in one day as a tourist.

Of the places I’ve been, I guess Zurich is my favorite (I’ve been there often enough that I’m starting to know my way around). Bangalore was a real eye-opener in a variety of respects. But the place I really want to go back to is Dublin.

TribeScribe @ 192

N=1, and one more:
Animal Rescue League of Boston

Already contacted them – they are closest to me, and I have donated to them, but they’re overloaded, too. Thanks for all of your suggestions! I so appreciate them!

eCAHNomics @ 190

N = 1
I have room in my country house, 85 miles from NYC, but transportation without car is awkward. I do it weekends: involves convenient 1-1/2 hour bus to NYC, but have to take $10 taxi to or from house & bus station.

NYC apt full with me, my adult son, & his cat. But if you can think of a way to get him to move out . . .

Thanks so much – that sounds like Dutchess County? I used to take the train to visit and got off at Dover Plains??(Is that the last stop?) Pretty up there….

OT: While searching the internet for a Watergate encyclopedia after reading Eli’s article below, I came across the item that Jeb Stuart McGruder just had a car crash (and a stroke?). I wonder if he will suddenly remember even more 30 year old conversations.

N=1 @ 175

Fern @ 167

N=1 – At the point and with huge disruptions you (and they) are facing, euthanizing them might be the kindest thing you can do for old, not-too-healthy animals. And for yourself – you can only do what you can do.

I know this sounds heartless – I love my pets, but I’m not sentimental about them – and I have seen people clinging to old, sick pets for their own sake, not the animals sake.

They aren’t sick – they’re just old and have disfigurements. But I am very familiar with euthanizing for quality of life issues – when I had the sanctuary I provided both hospice care for animals that were fading, but not suffering, and euthanasia for animals that were in pain. I, too, am not sentimental – can’t afford to be.

Okay – looks like I didn’t understand the situation.

When I entered the Cyclades it was by boat from Turkey with no firm plan except to stay away from the very busy Islands and a mediocre guide book.

In short, Paros was my favorite island with amenities. Valley of the Butterflies should not be missed nor should the town of Naoussa which has among other things one of my all time favorite bakeries evah!

Will never understand why Europeans like tiny little separate beds so much…

N=1 @ 196

TribeScribe @ 192

N=1, and one more:
Animal Rescue League of Boston

Already contacted them – they are closest to me, and I have donated to them, but they’re overloaded, too. Thanks for all of your suggestions! I so appreciate them!

most certainly! If you find a shelter
and your only lack is transport, let me know.
I’ve transported 4 animals over a 3-day haul
before and would be willing to help.
Keep knocking on doors. One will open–

N=1 @ 197

eCAHNomics @ 190

N = 1
I have room in my country house, 85 miles from NYC, but transportation without car is awkward. I do it weekends: involves convenient 1-1/2 hour bus to NYC, but have to take $10 taxi to or from house & bus station.

NYC apt full with me, my adult son, & his cat. But if you can think of a way to get him to move out . . .

Thanks so much – that sounds like Dutchess County? I used to take the train to visit and got off at Dover Plains??(Is that the last stop?) Pretty up there….

Ulster County (other side of the Hudson), which is why you have to take a bus-no train service.

I think I caught something about you were liscensed to practice in NY. What is your profession?

burns — Ooooh, Dublin. That’s on my list…well, pretty much all of Ireland. One of these days…

eCAHNomics @ 202

I think I caught something about you were liscensed to practice in NY. What is your profession?

I’m a registered nurse, but can’t practice clinically – one of my hands doesn’t work well (also why I no longer drive) so I’m looking for education or administrative positions with no clinical component (and that’s the hard part).

Peterr @ 131, have a wonderful, safe drive to Kansas City (that is, if you ever find your keys!). And best of luck on your new start there. :)

Fern @ 199

Okay – looks like I didn’t understand the situation.

I probably didn’t describe them very clearly. It’s also pretty common to confuse special needs for ill and sick. I appreciate your perspective.

N = 1
My house is in New Paltz. Think they have a nursing program at SUNY-New Paltz. But one program is not a big market for job hunting.

Venice…….

“The City of Falling Angels” by John Berendt (he of “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”). This book is perfect to read before or after you’ve been to Venice.

Paris …….

“Paris Dreambook” by Lawrence Osborne. A magical, surrealistic impression of the city.

Africa …….

“Dark Star”, speaking of Paul Theroux. In this book he went, by land, all the way from Cairo to Capetown. I don’t know the ins and outs of his break with V. S. Naipaul but Naipaul is the better writer. Naipaul’s books about Africa (all fiction) and India (all nonfiction) are superb. He is, arguably, the best stylist in the english language living today.

The drive (Highway 26) between Portland and Bend, Oregon. A really interesting variety of geography in three hours of driving. Bend and surroundings has some of the best air to breathe of any place I’ve ever been.

eCAHNomics @ 207

N = 1
My house is in New Paltz. Think they have a nursing program at SUNY-New Paltz. But one program is not a big market for job hunting.

Pretty much the programs want clinical instructors – and I can’t do that. Very few programs are seeking what my area of expertise is – nursing administration, project management, nursing shared governance and patient safety initiatives – too new a field for many faculty positions.

N=1 @ 209

eCAHNomics @ 207

N = 1
My house is in New Paltz. Think they have a nursing program at SUNY-New Paltz. But one program is not a big market for job hunting.

Pretty much the programs want clinical instructors – and I can’t do that. Very few programs are seeking what my area of expertise is – nursing administration, project management, nursing shared governance and patient safety initiatives – too new a field for many faculty positions.

I’m out of ideas, but I hope you can find an acceptable outcome. I’m off to next thread for awhile & then have to go out & do some stuff.

N=1 – I don’t know whether you’ve checked for jobs at Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington VT – connected with Univ of VT – good sized facility and good reputation. Burlington is a beautiful walkable city and it seems like I’m always seeing advertisements for nursing positions – not necessarily in your area of expertise. Just google FAHC and you’ll get their homepage.

eCAHNomics @ 210
I’m out of ideas, but I hope you can find an acceptable outcome. I’m off to next thread for awhile & then have to go out & do some stuff.Thanks again for your support. I wish I didn’t have the limitations that I have.

carolyn urban @ 211

N=1 – I don’t know whether you’ve checked for jobs at Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington VT – connected with Univ of VT – good sized facility and good reputation. Burlington is a beautiful walkable city and it seems like I’m always seeing advertisements for nursing positions – not necessarily in your area of expertise. Just google FAHC and you’ll get their homepage.

I haven’t looked in Vermont as I’m not licensed there, and don’t really know much about the lay of the land relative to public transportation. But you’re right – just about every patient care organization is looking for clinical nurses.

N=1 et al

I have a pride of little house lions. Missy is 22 and hyperthyroid. Min is 19 with hypertension and blind due to it. Yang is 13 with diabetes. The rest are younger and all are a joy. Quality of life is my guide, combined with advice from my vet. I got Missy at 19 from my vet because her previous guardian didn’t want to be bothered with giving her medication. Euthanasia was her solution. I know that day is coming for all of them but I took them into my care and consider it my responsibility to give them the best life possible until such time. I also consider it an honour to be able to provide for these creatures that were unwanted by others. I don’t know about sentimentality, though. I am devastated each time I hold something I love in his/her last moments but that’s my problem. And it never gets easier. I have chosen to love these animals and must suffer the consequences of that affection. To be otherwise, I believe, would leave me a mere shell of a human. I would never allow an animal to suffer because I’m afraid of the pain that their loss will cause me.

Don’t give up, N=1. Keep at it and someone will have an answer.

N=1

Totally feeling for you and the animals … history here too.

Totally relieved that everyone has ideas … can’t add to that. Thinking of you … all the best for sorting it out. New Paltz is lovely.

One idea maybe for later: considering your employment requirements you might look into teaching in an online distance learning capacity. There are more and more programs all the time and the clinical componenet would be virtual or moot. Also the online programs might be further ahead and more cutting edge in terms of looking for what you have to offer in terms of expertise as you say @ 209.

Take Care.

fdl reader @ 215

N=1

Totally feeling for you and the animals … history here too.

Totally relieved that everyone has ideas … can’t add to that. Thinking of you … all the best for sorting it out. New Paltz is lovely.

One idea maybe for later: considering your employment requirements you might look into teaching in an online distance learning capacity. There are more and more programs all the time and the clinical componenet would be virtual or moot. Also the online programs might be further ahead and more cutting edge in terms of looking for what you have to offer in terms of expertise as you say @ 209.

Take Care.

Great minds and all: I have applied to every single online nursing program as faculty – no response from any as of yet. Thanks so much!

SouthernDragon @ 214

N=1 et al

I have a pride of little house lions. Missy is 22 and hyperthyroid. Min is 19 with hypertension and blind due to it. Yang is 13 with diabetes. The rest are younger and all are a joy. Quality of life is my guide, combined with advice from my vet. I got Missy at 19 from my vet because her previous guardian didn’t want to be bothered with giving her medication. Euthanasia was her solution. I know that day is coming for all of them but I took them into my care and consider it my responsibility to give them the best life possible until such time. I also consider it an honour to be able to provide for these creatures that were unwanted by others. I don’t know about sentimentality, though. I am devastated each time I hold something I love in his/her last moments but that’s my problem. And it never gets easier. I have chosen to love these animals and must suffer the consequences of that affection. To be otherwise, I believe, would leave me a mere shell of a human. I would never allow an animal to suffer because I’m afraid of the pain that their loss will cause me.

Don’t give up, N=1. Keep at it and someone will have an answer.

Thanks so much for your perspective – that could be me – only much better said. It’s all about the quality of life. Thanks so much for the support – it’s not a matter of giving up – it’s simply being out of time and resources.

N=1 YGM *g*

N=1, much of VT is rural; but Burlington is fine to live in with no car. As I say, much is walkable; and there is pretty reasonable public transport – via city buses for outlying housing. And you get the Vermont way of life -Burlington is very artsy, theater, music, right on Lake Champlain, ringed by mountains – consistently rated one of the cleanest, healthiest and most livable cities. Plus, you get our fabulous congressional contingent: Leahy, Sanders and Welch. Do check it out.

Gerald Durrell, naturalist brother of Lawrence, has written some of the best stuff about Greece in the form of autobiography about being a budding zookeeper on Corfu (he later had a zoo on the isle of Jersey).

N=1

This might tide you over….

http://chronicle.com/jobs/id.p…..=s&cc=

N=1

This won’t help in the short term but, given your talents, have you thought of establishing an animal therapy program at a nursing home? It seems the ASPCA is not supportive of utilizing unadoptable animals in those settings, unfortunately. But maybe, over time, you could come up with different data. Anyway, I hope things turn around quickly for you.

BTW, years ago, a little cat lay dying on the property of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in NYC. I went into their office and they were completely uninterested in this poor kitty. I was appalled. I had no money at all at the time. So I called the local Franciscan church and played upon the story of St. Francis. After about 20 minutes, two friars arrived in a cab and took the cat to a vet. You might try contacting the Boston Franciscan church (I think it’s St. Anthony Shrine) and see if they will honor their founder’s philosophy by helping your little dogs.

Toby Wollin @ 41

I don’t know if it is on the “1000 places to go” list, but I’d like to recommend Cape Breton Island, NS.

Toby, thank you so much. We’ll see Natalie MacMaster again when she plays with the Seattle Symphony shortly after the New Year!

I know that there are lots of amazing places to visit in the world, but one of the two I must see is Cape Breton. The other is Ireland. I finally figured out a way to manage my significant fear of flying, so hopefully, I will see both of these places by the time I’m fifty.

I hope everyone else is having a great day. It’s my birthday, so I’m off to eat cake or something!

-S

JebbieTeacher @ 222

N=1

This won’t help in the short term but, given your talents, have you thought of establishing an animal therapy program at a nursing home? It seems the ASPCA is not supportive of utilizing unadoptable animals in those settings, unfortunately. But maybe, over time, you could come up with different data. Anyway, I hope things turn around quickly for you.

BTW, years ago, a little cat lay dying on the property of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in NYC. I went into their office and they were completely uninterested in this poor kitty. I was appalled. I had no money at all at the time. So I called the local Franciscan church and played upon the story of St. Francis. After about 20 minutes, two friars arrived in a cab and took the cat to a vet. You might try contacting the Boston Franciscan church (I think it’s St. Anthony Shrine) and see if they will honor their founder’s philosophy by helping your little dogs.

I used to work at St. Luke’s next door, and I found a kitten in the bushes at the Columbia Law School who became my fast friend. I’m surprised and disappointed that SJD didn’t help the kitten, though. Did you by any chance speak with the sisters? I took care of one in the order, and she was always surrounded with sisters from the order – they all seemed compassionate.

Hope @ 221

N=1

This might tide you over….

http://chronicle.com/jobs/id.p…..=s&cc=

Wow! Is that ever interesting! I could have used them, myself. Unfortunately, I am an ABD – I didn’t write the dissertation so I don’t qualify. But thanks so much for finding that!

carolyn urban @ 219

N=1, much of VT is rural; but Burlington is fine to live in with no car. As I say, much is walkable; and there is pretty reasonable public transport – via city buses for outlying housing. And you get the Vermont way of life -Burlington is very artsy, theater, music, right on Lake Champlain, ringed by mountains – consistently rated one of the cleanest, healthiest and most livable cities. Plus, you get our fabulous congressional contingent: Leahy, Sanders and Welch. Do check it out.

It sounds lovely, and I think I would enjoy that. However, I don’t have the means or time to get licensed – it’s a process which takes a month or two and fees which I don’t have. And then there’s the pesky moving thing, traveling to interviews, etc. I’m afraid it’s out of reach for me, but I appreciate your providing me with the info. Maybe sometime when I have more stability to be able to go looking at leisure….

Hours late, as usual. Right now, I’m enjoying A Walk In The Woods, by Bill Bryson. It’s a very funny account of his hike along the Ap.Trail…………throughly enjoyable.

Also by him, A Sunburned Countrywhich I haven’t read, but is said to also be a highly entertaining read.

Thanks again, everyone for the moral support. It was appreciated. If I don’t make it back to the Lake – keep on keeping on with the fire under their feet!

N=1,
I’m EPU’d here,but if you check this thread again,consider Emory in Atlanta as a possibility. There’s a university and a hospital here,the entire Emory machine is enormous.

Atlanta itself,inside the city,still has places where it’s affordable to live,there’s pretty efficient public transportation,and the cost of living(outside the ritzy places)is not too bad. There’s also the CDC here,and other large medical related facilities of all kinds. Every suburb has a huge part of itself devoted to every kind of medical specialty you can think of.

Try looking on the Atlanta Journal/Constitution website as a starting place for city info and where to find various resources.

anangryoldbroad @ 229

N=1,
I’m EPU’d here,but if you check this thread again,consider Emory in Atlanta as a possibility. There’s a university and a hospital here,the entire Emory machine is enormous.

Atlanta itself,inside the city,still has places where it’s affordable to live,there’s pretty efficient public transportation,and the cost of living(outside the ritzy places)is not too bad. There’s also the CDC here,and other large medical related facilities of all kinds. Every suburb has a huge part of itself devoted to every kind of medical specialty you can think of.

Try looking on the Atlanta Journal/Constitution website as a starting place for city info and where to find various resources.

Thanks so much, but I don’t have the time or resources to look outside NY state. I have to be out of my apt Monday evening.

the places in between is required reading about an extraordinary journey undertaken in early 2002 from Herat to Kabul by foot. rory stewart is also the author of the prince of the marshes, his account of his year in southern iraq as part of the CPA which should also be required reading. lastly, his op-ed this week in the nyt from kabul should provide a necessary warning to all those who blithely say we should increase troops in afghanistan as if that will solve anything.

Kathleen @ 172

This morning on NPR’s Scott Simons morning program Senior News Analyst Daniel Schorr summarized this week as a “continuing battle of two branches of government” focused on contempt and perjury.

http://www.npr.org/templates/s…..d=12323858

I heard that. Much as I respect Dan Schorr’s years of news experience, his surface and too-facile dismissal of the situation really infuriated me. To someone who hadn’t been following the story, it would sound like a minor scuffle.

But, then, there’s almost no in-depth reporting on NPR anymore, and far too much air time given to flacks like Brooks.

Christy,
I’m so late here that you may never see this, but I highly recommend a DVD set by Ewan McGreggor and Charley Boorman: Long Way Round (the complete tv series). Ewan and best friend Charley ride monster cycles all around the world, from London east to Russia and on the Road of Bones. The people they meet there are incredible, and some things are really scary and even terrifying. They fly to Alaska, and then make their way to New York at the end. It is a VERY emotional trip, and quite wondrous.

katymine @ 107

Good Morning everyone…..

So glad one of our favorite taverna’s made the post. They had the BEST moussaka but that was the table after we had espresso and gellato after that fine meal.

My boyfriend and I were saying last night how much we miss Crete. That day we had gone into the city to change the sailing date of the ferry to Athens. We ended changing our plans and staying all but 2 days of our 3 week vacation on Crete and are really glad we did.

The city was bustling until the official lunch time. Poof, the traffic was gone, the streets cleared, shops close and everyone is having their lunch and siesta time.

Good Morning from the Aegean island of Lesbos (Mytilini, as we refer to it) Greece! So many wonderful postings about Greece. We have spent 6 months a year for the last 15 years in Mytilini. I have often wondered why we have so many European visitors and rarely an American one. Americans are missing a treat: Lush, green mountains with more than 12 million olive trees, views of Turkey across the channel, wonderful beaches, and lots of local color, especially in July and August. Plomari, ouzo capital of the world, is a small town of about 3500 people on the southeast coast of the island. This weekend is the annual Ouzo Festival–lots of local music and dancing, strolls up and down the main street, long, late-night meals at seaside tavernas. What a crowd last night. We could hear the music from the town far into the night. Tonight (Sunday) is the big night with Greece’s most famous bouzouki player, Christos Nikolopoulos, featured in the program. Wish you were here!