tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6967946874921661392024-02-06T21:15:22.964-07:00JON'S EXCELLENT ADVENTUREJonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.comBlogger166125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-10734349086261317182014-01-29T20:23:00.002-07:002014-01-29T20:23:30.782-07:00Costa Rica: Corcovado<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our last leg of the trip was definitely the highlight. OK, just to set the scene, after breaking my tooth and waiting a few hours to get it patched up, we drove 3.5 hours down to Puerto Jimenez, located on the Osa Peninsula in the south. There, we checked into our room, ate dinner and packed as fast and as light as we could to get in a few hours of sleep before our 4:30 am alarm went off. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At 5:00 am, we left to meet a guide who would take us into Corcovado. Corcovado is the Costa Rica's largest national park and one of the most densely biodiverse areas in the country, hence our interest in this area. We met our guide, Alvero, and were soon on a 45 minute car ride to Karate, the closest town that boarders the park. The ride alone was pretty amazing and I felt almost fully satisfied with the wildlife we saw on our way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZV61l7G8n5amBDBvBMZ69eoEidR0WN7Srq_AtI9Ovpftao-LVdXhCAJOh7hbCNSPd2kW1Fi8Wcj1Sq3jgepZybMSRs9OPlzhjKr-o9-CjaXDtbMrhcg5thcGe3utXtQPddSBrtFUlE-E/s1600/Corcovado-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZV61l7G8n5amBDBvBMZ69eoEidR0WN7Srq_AtI9Ovpftao-LVdXhCAJOh7hbCNSPd2kW1Fi8Wcj1Sq3jgepZybMSRs9OPlzhjKr-o9-CjaXDtbMrhcg5thcGe3utXtQPddSBrtFUlE-E/s1600/Corcovado-1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
The VERY FIRST thing we saw was this three toed sloth, not even 10 minutes into the drive. This creature is the thing that I had been dying to see and, if I'm honest with myself, one of the primary reasons of even going to Costa Rica. Let's just say I was flabbergasted with how easy we found it and how close we got. From there, we saw all sorts of things...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANDrBLI3y8VsJgh8VPBd-ihBE3h04T-E7kN56L_OD-MJwpcTs4P9-CY6gqMtpQPH4OPAK7M6ZXxXZNmjAHREA0f5UR4_m00W4TyS8Nhf696qzTDGY69V6WrQRWO4CLf6qyk1-QafZ7cI/s1600/Corcovado-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANDrBLI3y8VsJgh8VPBd-ihBE3h04T-E7kN56L_OD-MJwpcTs4P9-CY6gqMtpQPH4OPAK7M6ZXxXZNmjAHREA0f5UR4_m00W4TyS8Nhf696qzTDGY69V6WrQRWO4CLf6qyk1-QafZ7cI/s1600/Corcovado-2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Cute little Orange-chinned Parakeet<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7H9lA_EeTMxIW7f5e91BLJcYk8ZNPu9WhRuqZIYB9fYzmaNoTTavjkzwb4wSdSE0nVx8M2s8oJl7WFqXaOBQO2mowm0qcXdDwKI8c65w32xd44e_u5-KKA_1Wk2_7nhJVsAs94DqpGHA/s1600/Corcovado-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7H9lA_EeTMxIW7f5e91BLJcYk8ZNPu9WhRuqZIYB9fYzmaNoTTavjkzwb4wSdSE0nVx8M2s8oJl7WFqXaOBQO2mowm0qcXdDwKI8c65w32xd44e_u5-KKA_1Wk2_7nhJVsAs94DqpGHA/s1600/Corcovado-4.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Howler Monkeys<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCdjclT9Y67j6SW-dHCEa_kZosWjd84fqLm9qCH-4VNECEUrf6boF43yIYNykAKsDUHyDWV8u5fQCng8dypkggRpyF_c0PD19iEpQx8j6UP1osGqoHbPk9WMDNEYl8wuJs-XPMTTTk-k/s1600/Corcovado-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCdjclT9Y67j6SW-dHCEa_kZosWjd84fqLm9qCH-4VNECEUrf6boF43yIYNykAKsDUHyDWV8u5fQCng8dypkggRpyF_c0PD19iEpQx8j6UP1osGqoHbPk9WMDNEYl8wuJs-XPMTTTk-k/s1600/Corcovado-6.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
More Howler Monkeys, using that tail that would be so cool to have if evolution would have just let us keep it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCvgK2q6g2vt24vVWYSMHqYeM3d434YyHPT-0tP5wFssoINJjtrarbrphtIcJHyanLqSNUOGYKHp5BtZj07iEJYQE717myDiXQfdpmn8-0aGhfUbxFkF5o4IYB-O15-ID7pxQbLT1bS0/s1600/Corcovado-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCvgK2q6g2vt24vVWYSMHqYeM3d434YyHPT-0tP5wFssoINJjtrarbrphtIcJHyanLqSNUOGYKHp5BtZj07iEJYQE717myDiXQfdpmn8-0aGhfUbxFkF5o4IYB-O15-ID7pxQbLT1bS0/s1600/Corcovado-10.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
And THIS guy. Toucan!! We saw a bunch of them up in the trees, getting their breakfast on. I honestly can't believe that I got this shot. Casey and I both had a surreal moment while I was looking through my viewfinder as if this guy was posing for us with the crazy beak of his. What a moment!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZ-rBIVJWh0LxC8e7ASgp2VfM3f1WE5IwTL8iMwhBMKTfLK2Vf5wZhM8UFQ6b-xzfLGGexhKfefhGCaIXJry0ld3Lx0ZNhsB000ugS5ehDMO5CYthYb9amEYWswo8MRRReEQIqzDr2dw/s1600/Corcovado-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZ-rBIVJWh0LxC8e7ASgp2VfM3f1WE5IwTL8iMwhBMKTfLK2Vf5wZhM8UFQ6b-xzfLGGexhKfefhGCaIXJry0ld3Lx0ZNhsB000ugS5ehDMO5CYthYb9amEYWswo8MRRReEQIqzDr2dw/s1600/Corcovado-12.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
And after he was done modeling for us, he took off in all his glory.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBuX6h0X5lkm8hlVjlC_PXjw3L1nauvIETXc21Nf5NoZhzN6v5YoPLBRmprovjXows-cyCtlKtOfnK6B-nIW-eFJk7LqoykNFIVnXd8CdwUDSvk0elO9jGfyahlrmVNqUPwrPlrSq0boU/s1600/Corcovado-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBuX6h0X5lkm8hlVjlC_PXjw3L1nauvIETXc21Nf5NoZhzN6v5YoPLBRmprovjXows-cyCtlKtOfnK6B-nIW-eFJk7LqoykNFIVnXd8CdwUDSvk0elO9jGfyahlrmVNqUPwrPlrSq0boU/s1600/Corcovado-14.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
We even saw a Squirrel Monkey, which is the rarest of the four monkey (all of which we saw) in Costa Rica.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcM88A8qIc6hzZBjSxwffJEMxtrxjq55rnNJzpIOEooNKnirOe9Uy7UgEngNov2Dw-gQnzDNNU8fhPdh0U3paGoEOZcRlBW6ZzqqAE40O68HItShQWoGYoUYFGGgcYmENuzXqE4zWKUk8/s1600/Corcovado-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcM88A8qIc6hzZBjSxwffJEMxtrxjq55rnNJzpIOEooNKnirOe9Uy7UgEngNov2Dw-gQnzDNNU8fhPdh0U3paGoEOZcRlBW6ZzqqAE40O68HItShQWoGYoUYFGGgcYmENuzXqE4zWKUk8/s1600/Corcovado-15.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
The last thing we saw on our drive was this White Hawk. It kept its distance in the shadows of the trees, so I didn't get a great shot, but I also didn't try that hard as I wanted to savor seeing it in person and not chancing it flying away and only seeing in through my camera. What a beautiful creature.<br />
<br />
After the drive, we hiked 2 km on the beach to La Leona ranger Station, where we cooled down a bit, got some water and after a bit of breakfast. This was our view:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieozY0qe4E5Tijei3Q0bg6sRycswLjJTU9a6a2Uen7prXIv1DUQIIjmgWOpYGuOMixYxs0EZn4HXP3_YdQXDf8__XEQxLd011c8ICA1G0MAxgLr0z2-8zOA8KiK5mSJBow3ZHbRyCNim0/s1600/IMG_3411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieozY0qe4E5Tijei3Q0bg6sRycswLjJTU9a6a2Uen7prXIv1DUQIIjmgWOpYGuOMixYxs0EZn4HXP3_YdQXDf8__XEQxLd011c8ICA1G0MAxgLr0z2-8zOA8KiK5mSJBow3ZHbRyCNim0/s1600/IMG_3411.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
I felt an overwhelming sensation of jealousy and resentment towards the two very friendly gentlemen who call this their office. After our pause, we started the real trek: 19 km (12 miles) into the rainforest. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzxyytaeieZxkpRsfHkyp5wEVjvZe5p0wlbEcAlxkQuFn41qYePY1wE_SomMo66kUXm3evRCg9saz0zY1Ma5zVgtKsi2cp11SWj-VaG3UF4hbYVVUW_eLQK3kpwkyD3J6EXpYG8Sb7Y0/s1600/Corcovado-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzxyytaeieZxkpRsfHkyp5wEVjvZe5p0wlbEcAlxkQuFn41qYePY1wE_SomMo66kUXm3evRCg9saz0zY1Ma5zVgtKsi2cp11SWj-VaG3UF4hbYVVUW_eLQK3kpwkyD3J6EXpYG8Sb7Y0/s1600/Corcovado-17.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
First thing we saw as we hiked along that beautiful beach was this Scarlet Macaw. It was funny to think of how hard we tried to find one of these in the other parts of the country as we saw pair after pair gliding through the air and perched in trees. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzMbvYVi2kQjonYaLYr1aHrf3Yj77n_98AOAyrt6s-T9LVKN7ktc-_Nsxb1itD9H4zExPRz0bXAq-5YO85hDMzUjZoLFQmdKmcfYSlyr6RY5YNbvIDGfd095gXmFxv58ACBqRAMCa8EoY/s1600/Corcovado-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzMbvYVi2kQjonYaLYr1aHrf3Yj77n_98AOAyrt6s-T9LVKN7ktc-_Nsxb1itD9H4zExPRz0bXAq-5YO85hDMzUjZoLFQmdKmcfYSlyr6RY5YNbvIDGfd095gXmFxv58ACBqRAMCa8EoY/s1600/Corcovado-18.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
White Faced Monkeys were abundant as well. We stumbled upon this group as we entered the rainforest, taking brief shelter from the beaming sun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIhZ3tWKMI6SfKowSQdkzSsMFL0O_g7u3WAJcH7OWtaHrVuh7D-7mrpSqFpaZUIuE4u8VjFZ5oDhl96KtIZVwH481OiN9CjxU5ndYdrtkOMgOY5_niNqCJOCY13_woEL0AOt8_ZWj0TI/s1600/Corcovado-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIhZ3tWKMI6SfKowSQdkzSsMFL0O_g7u3WAJcH7OWtaHrVuh7D-7mrpSqFpaZUIuE4u8VjFZ5oDhl96KtIZVwH481OiN9CjxU5ndYdrtkOMgOY5_niNqCJOCY13_woEL0AOt8_ZWj0TI/s1600/Corcovado-20.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
Here's a baby causally hanging around, eating some grub.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGRWNY-KMbZ6xqToxkEZ7-IMpuYoIJJfMzzMiF95sAnGKgOB4FYYaXrTNEObPcc8eXwZFalQr3fDHUBG4klvAoEbz9CTR843Uo4JI6l0hnTVfWwf2qWtqDwt8arXmy1akacM79oYy7m0/s1600/Corcovado-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGRWNY-KMbZ6xqToxkEZ7-IMpuYoIJJfMzzMiF95sAnGKgOB4FYYaXrTNEObPcc8eXwZFalQr3fDHUBG4klvAoEbz9CTR843Uo4JI6l0hnTVfWwf2qWtqDwt8arXmy1akacM79oYy7m0/s1600/Corcovado-23.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
This juvenile was pretty fun to watch as well. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LKwniF6PR2SmTQCNLh9B_Jshdy9HMsPZWqdZGkXqwqTJj-85GLJd30V2tI0-RVm2ob6R2KSjE09tqLcjfXR9GUimQqh25EQSfDU6zO76q_r79eqbEsKnDzXdh6G96ukSz5NosLUd9r4/s1600/Corcovado-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LKwniF6PR2SmTQCNLh9B_Jshdy9HMsPZWqdZGkXqwqTJj-85GLJd30V2tI0-RVm2ob6R2KSjE09tqLcjfXR9GUimQqh25EQSfDU6zO76q_r79eqbEsKnDzXdh6G96ukSz5NosLUd9r4/s1600/Corcovado-24.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
We almost walked right past this male Black-Throated Trogon. I had just seen it in the corner of my eye and had a few moments with it before it flew away.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvPmUxmKMsaHamcONUoJ2654DZhoUtiJX1BApPCCd2w-JIhsl8Gyr853-9bbPmENP8MvyLhJk7692UGwZwEO12VOyuQHN5SfdcLdchtmqFTGEgwWH7QDcVcuWNovB_CpwRLqLplG0py8Q/s1600/Corcovado-28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvPmUxmKMsaHamcONUoJ2654DZhoUtiJX1BApPCCd2w-JIhsl8Gyr853-9bbPmENP8MvyLhJk7692UGwZwEO12VOyuQHN5SfdcLdchtmqFTGEgwWH7QDcVcuWNovB_CpwRLqLplG0py8Q/s1600/Corcovado-28.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Another group of animals that we found abundant in Corcovado were Coati. We actually saw our first one in Monteverde, rummaging through the recycling bin. They are the raccoons of Costa Rica behave pretty similarly. Curious, courageous and adorable.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylFHTDeBwALsBrm2LNu-IAFv0muj99KdX_OxRdIQ8duFyX7_5msSXj9csP-d57gXEo_cxq8FDhxPwRyM1PI4QvTgCAYQFBoxiqfAohw-W47_8E80tivtYMT1BinQ6y8zSqgupb1bd1W8/s1600/Corcovado-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylFHTDeBwALsBrm2LNu-IAFv0muj99KdX_OxRdIQ8duFyX7_5msSXj9csP-d57gXEo_cxq8FDhxPwRyM1PI4QvTgCAYQFBoxiqfAohw-W47_8E80tivtYMT1BinQ6y8zSqgupb1bd1W8/s1600/Corcovado-26.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
These two came pretty close to us and seemed as interested in us as we were in them. The one on the branch was scratching an itch, lost its balance and almost feel off the tree! Somehow, I think he understood our laughter and seems somewhat embarrassed. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbPxF2sVzqbBKJvkR7cgcvxtAmVYXlohJmVpcSgWV9J1xzqsqtYjInOmAyG0hzQFaqMSVX2FX91c1fbR-Ie_nLJ3Tkq12uEV3wJ1j2-CXVbYVQWJDN0TGGaeKeJJIVRZt0hvbVJhkxZ0/s1600/Corcovado-30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbPxF2sVzqbBKJvkR7cgcvxtAmVYXlohJmVpcSgWV9J1xzqsqtYjInOmAyG0hzQFaqMSVX2FX91c1fbR-Ie_nLJ3Tkq12uEV3wJ1j2-CXVbYVQWJDN0TGGaeKeJJIVRZt0hvbVJhkxZ0/s1600/Corcovado-30.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
Here's Casey under a very unique and puzzling tree. It's strange how this tree grew to make such a perfect right angle, but from how large it was, it must have been some time ago.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8GSLD94eskiVtBMCNKTD62barL_99o8_1FT-XEJ1UouWzxZ_pfEnG9mq8JxF9BWM0jwtHn1joal5ImIUngU0PQImU9mIGB5hHoW1l5arjj9tZ1rk-M-0uH-uXDxkR1FNn-1xDpyc4Fx4/s1600/Corcovado-32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8GSLD94eskiVtBMCNKTD62barL_99o8_1FT-XEJ1UouWzxZ_pfEnG9mq8JxF9BWM0jwtHn1joal5ImIUngU0PQImU9mIGB5hHoW1l5arjj9tZ1rk-M-0uH-uXDxkR1FNn-1xDpyc4Fx4/s1600/Corcovado-32.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
More Macaws all over the place.<br />
<br />
Here are a couple of sweet shots I got of this beautiful spider monkey. Finding these guys made our count 4 out of 4 Costa Rican monkeys.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiICdbFNI6_4A11lpYltwb1W5MlebebOu56GG9gq-YH_wiUX4bHrJ2DEBLE_1XVfNz4j6YLp06Wvt_41ikG9-HuxJC8o_NxameDMoWyRC_-MFIR3Se3qPoDDOL-UHLjcaD5BlvhyOj9jbo/s1600/Corcovado-36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiICdbFNI6_4A11lpYltwb1W5MlebebOu56GG9gq-YH_wiUX4bHrJ2DEBLE_1XVfNz4j6YLp06Wvt_41ikG9-HuxJC8o_NxameDMoWyRC_-MFIR3Se3qPoDDOL-UHLjcaD5BlvhyOj9jbo/s1600/Corcovado-36.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGOnzrcWQTtJm_qzwxs1_M5CO9XbAGyi_SdiLmCNXSAuZpri9ZqasJtRtWHMH80Kgzp4wOPHAHLxX4Ua0zK5TWb1txFFtuD1WhmpOXjeEQ3QviAW5q1hxyq4hKWlkEg7rXHlenbFsgYk/s1600/Corcovado-37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGOnzrcWQTtJm_qzwxs1_M5CO9XbAGyi_SdiLmCNXSAuZpri9ZqasJtRtWHMH80Kgzp4wOPHAHLxX4Ua0zK5TWb1txFFtuD1WhmpOXjeEQ3QviAW5q1hxyq4hKWlkEg7rXHlenbFsgYk/s1600/Corcovado-37.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
Spider Monkeys might have been my favorite. Those large eyes are just so adorable.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzp_PzhBTKeZQOROK1as2bqffrwzRM7KSgYtnvBFlStoRV1aH1oRex-snqtiQGfmBZoIGU5lDidSOFVJTcvLwx9YnOz6z_t8jDsXWG_ZktTj02mYjs1EGtTdbKlH1FeGAfDS21yPSNRlg/s1600/Corcovado-34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzp_PzhBTKeZQOROK1as2bqffrwzRM7KSgYtnvBFlStoRV1aH1oRex-snqtiQGfmBZoIGU5lDidSOFVJTcvLwx9YnOz6z_t8jDsXWG_ZktTj02mYjs1EGtTdbKlH1FeGAfDS21yPSNRlg/s1600/Corcovado-34.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
This is some sort of dark frog, although I'm not exactly sure what specific type. Researching a bit leads me to think that its a Black and Orange Poison Dart Frog, which would be pretty cool since it would have been the only poisonous thing we saw. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPoUvO0I7cWVelsVsZJSNcbhrjVfdIPVoFV9pn990gv84PPm-eBOP1KRr5n6fOuabHXvlo96_bDc-qiimoPUsVR8FwMm7kB4veI9xmZOffx9dmwT1SUg9NV9iu1H4SJf9QlW8PWguINGM/s1600/Corcovado-39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPoUvO0I7cWVelsVsZJSNcbhrjVfdIPVoFV9pn990gv84PPm-eBOP1KRr5n6fOuabHXvlo96_bDc-qiimoPUsVR8FwMm7kB4veI9xmZOffx9dmwT1SUg9NV9iu1H4SJf9QlW8PWguINGM/s1600/Corcovado-39.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Back along the beach, we saw this Brown Pelican, resting after having done a few rounds of fishing just before. I think this fallen tree must have been its spot since we saw it on the same branch on our way out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPvxHybt0AagNKnrk4-rLOr-bQUNp9NvK_Hu8YrP3suoajPZifH__UgVGW-Zvl_e_KCUXxxqhAAVfJ3Z8bQOfcQdyQKNsmsvf3rlNXpJPNJHR0-Hhedaoz0fUDOMTeGfFE9IvsPu7MX0/s1600/Corcovado-40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPvxHybt0AagNKnrk4-rLOr-bQUNp9NvK_Hu8YrP3suoajPZifH__UgVGW-Zvl_e_KCUXxxqhAAVfJ3Z8bQOfcQdyQKNsmsvf3rlNXpJPNJHR0-Hhedaoz0fUDOMTeGfFE9IvsPu7MX0/s1600/Corcovado-40.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
I don't recall how we found these Tent Making Bats, but saw them under a leaf and just as I was about to take a photo, we scared them off. Luckily, we saw there they landed and I was able to quickly catch this photo. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTo0ZHiVIqtkQKhnNy2k-vFAzOSmkRW0671A5cg5R49MFZeQDMndB9ro63xC5sMGn0glKDvvTLih3x_HCtUgKG9XqwAemYwUqTw1P1ATd1aT5GEQiDmydwdplbGzatRjyGxHt_ViAmagM/s1600/Corcovado-41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTo0ZHiVIqtkQKhnNy2k-vFAzOSmkRW0671A5cg5R49MFZeQDMndB9ro63xC5sMGn0glKDvvTLih3x_HCtUgKG9XqwAemYwUqTw1P1ATd1aT5GEQiDmydwdplbGzatRjyGxHt_ViAmagM/s1600/Corcovado-41.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
We saw the two types of wild boar, or Peccary, in Corcovado and both times knew they were close by their smell. Interestingly, they have distinct enough of an odor for us to discern the difference, although both of them smell like pretty bad BO mixed with very ripe French cheese. This species was the more aggressive of the two and kept huffing at as. <br />
<br />
Our last leg of the very tiring hike was a long stretch along the beach. Having seen such a variety of wildlife, Alvero concentrate on finding the Tapir, Costa Rica's largest mammal. He kept leading us into the swamp areas and ducked in and out of the foliage trying to find one, always coming back with a disappointed look and an accepting shrug.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mEH4Zbo1dMNxZTTVUOYQDraAetZXZ9-Knq8vRonG4FXyqKGgWXTzo6eTsodteyRe7qYX9a_xaOdH6e2cOAydrJQGfORY7tHb1rF2FCLPR2J-ws7I05TTkIDBC1qizyIhmnXaW_Z3hW4/s1600/Corcovado-42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mEH4Zbo1dMNxZTTVUOYQDraAetZXZ9-Knq8vRonG4FXyqKGgWXTzo6eTsodteyRe7qYX9a_xaOdH6e2cOAydrJQGfORY7tHb1rF2FCLPR2J-ws7I05TTkIDBC1qizyIhmnXaW_Z3hW4/s1600/Corcovado-42.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
It was very low tide as we ended our trek. <br />
<br />
Our journey led us to Sirena Ranger Station, the only place you can stay in the park and pretty much the same distance from any of the entrances. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8FGUiuC6oSP-ZzZw9pbWvHyD8QL5CiaWdY8yH0B69JEoyrynEzUnVjfEA6phw_x1BBgpTKxuZBwC4vJlCc6R-mcpvIvkIWmNSddLCuUQqsuthzYPGUfMq_NT_2MlKlj8CYUw1Naf76gI/s1600/Corcovado-44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8FGUiuC6oSP-ZzZw9pbWvHyD8QL5CiaWdY8yH0B69JEoyrynEzUnVjfEA6phw_x1BBgpTKxuZBwC4vJlCc6R-mcpvIvkIWmNSddLCuUQqsuthzYPGUfMq_NT_2MlKlj8CYUw1Naf76gI/s1600/Corcovado-44.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This view still brings me comfort. Looking out to the sunset, we had taken a nice cold shower, drank water freely and were sitting with our legs up on the wooden platforms of the station smelling our dinner being prepared. Hiking isn't the only way to get here. You can hire a boat to take you around the park and drop you off OR you can rent a private plane and have it land on the strip of grass. Our peers staying at the station that night were all backpacking looking folks and I think probably would have felt weird to be among a few that just flew in for the night.</div>
<br />
The next morning we woke up at 4AM to get an early start, with the best odds of finding a Tapir. To be honest, after the day before, I was totally over trying to find one. If it were a cougar or a some cool raptor I might have been more game. But it was a bit tiring looking for this weird animal that I had no clue about.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8n7lysRkc_HVzPv6ZVkH-KKSy5Z79RoW8nqVgTriu8Smhwwlc5Le2c3uAT9_Ks7otjXAWxbbkyCHByDq2s4pbSVvq7BnastKuitkl5YGzzwuD-Bj8qyxs2lt1QgzzUDnTX7vJxEoto1c/s1600/Corcovado-45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8n7lysRkc_HVzPv6ZVkH-KKSy5Z79RoW8nqVgTriu8Smhwwlc5Le2c3uAT9_Ks7otjXAWxbbkyCHByDq2s4pbSVvq7BnastKuitkl5YGzzwuD-Bj8qyxs2lt1QgzzUDnTX7vJxEoto1c/s1600/Corcovado-45.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
The morning sunrise was beautiful though. This shot was taken after we had trekked a bit further down the beach in an attempt to find the wild Tapir. Needless to say, we didn't see it..<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAuV5Jvw6vBxIQTsJgRSccx1Z_o-AZ_4ZOCNmqpAedDyBY9a93MPfu8NQ4To4e4CT_Vs7tBHb1JglABLbD38WPgMye4U37A9cCD5aF4iyvMZgdHqX6VAwnYzPiuHP-TSqDbEqgFpKWjI/s1600/Corcovado-48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAuV5Jvw6vBxIQTsJgRSccx1Z_o-AZ_4ZOCNmqpAedDyBY9a93MPfu8NQ4To4e4CT_Vs7tBHb1JglABLbD38WPgMye4U37A9cCD5aF4iyvMZgdHqX6VAwnYzPiuHP-TSqDbEqgFpKWjI/s1600/Corcovado-48.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
There were a few points where we had to take off our shoe, hike up our shorts and cross some water. Here, we stopped to eat our breakfast and watch (and hear) the wildlife wake up. Not a bad breakfast with these Egrets flying past. <br />
<br />
We hiked mainly on the beach on the way back at a pretty decent pace. Mainly, we had to get past a few points before the rising tide trapped us on one side. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWFDpDPCbSP8yAHUuFuKYAC__NOK4BngHe0hxngDk4WB_YXx9cZ2XhZPqTkP3BbiC24p4pBZgLtcKMFQDPG7eax6gTm_3C8y2TYvT-8MwAvfe8n-6nHgGYAHXtim9bH7r7U5Y0LMDG-o/s1600/Corcovado-49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWFDpDPCbSP8yAHUuFuKYAC__NOK4BngHe0hxngDk4WB_YXx9cZ2XhZPqTkP3BbiC24p4pBZgLtcKMFQDPG7eax6gTm_3C8y2TYvT-8MwAvfe8n-6nHgGYAHXtim9bH7r7U5Y0LMDG-o/s1600/Corcovado-49.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I forget what these rocks were called, but man was it scenic. I wish we had gotten stranded by the tide so we could swim out to this little island and have a picnic. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Further down the shore we spotted a black hawk perched on some branches. It seemed pretty content and unaffected by our presence. I really wanted to see it take flight, so with the gentle of help of our trusty guide, I got a few action shots. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFdn77StXfKf7PxdYjSaxOQ22ASseGH_FOHVyVhxC08toLSomD_3YLCEdP3ju-vOlaDs7SmzGECSkWgk0_PRMNd_9Cb8IpOSHUOciHFlN1X3lKEinO8Jga4yHJHn0Z4e6vIrqIA2nA9A/s1600/Corcovado+Hawk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFdn77StXfKf7PxdYjSaxOQ22ASseGH_FOHVyVhxC08toLSomD_3YLCEdP3ju-vOlaDs7SmzGECSkWgk0_PRMNd_9Cb8IpOSHUOciHFlN1X3lKEinO8Jga4yHJHn0Z4e6vIrqIA2nA9A/s1600/Corcovado+Hawk.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQd5cQiPCIEwfQynkVbkdvffVGZhUWLn3lAYCIRucUzh6MHMU5HkOgAuVxYhW1fwp7Z135VW7WhK7AjxhDGUczwJMW5PHC4UxwrNFsVdt-ypHz59MsbqzhPK-5D3_L8nLdSOgKjCg_Vo/s1600/Corcovado+Hawk-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQd5cQiPCIEwfQynkVbkdvffVGZhUWLn3lAYCIRucUzh6MHMU5HkOgAuVxYhW1fwp7Z135VW7WhK7AjxhDGUczwJMW5PHC4UxwrNFsVdt-ypHz59MsbqzhPK-5D3_L8nLdSOgKjCg_Vo/s1600/Corcovado+Hawk-2.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
I only wish I could have been on the other side to see it take flight. I'm not complaining though as this was pretty spectacular. <br />
<br />
Nearing the end of our 12 miles back, we started seeing other tourists with their guide on day hikes. Every time we passed a group, Alvero would tell them he was looking for a Tapir and if they had seen one. After a few, one of them said that he had seen one 5 minutes ago. This put some pep in our step. We came across another guide who said he had just seen one and that it was over the hill behind him. Alvero told us as fast as he could with a huge grin on his face and we were off, literally running up the hill.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WoqPZveZx1_BtX0_vS1-3uK7A20t-CHY3WNR4Mdj8N7H0Zmg3gVLguEntj6O9LEp0-l83qAeF-uM4RwnysxB4Mwomo3IDFVP6RPClpwxgLwdr9d9hYO_dvrD5CoSfJ8QdkjCwzUHQIs/s1600/Corcovado-53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WoqPZveZx1_BtX0_vS1-3uK7A20t-CHY3WNR4Mdj8N7H0Zmg3gVLguEntj6O9LEp0-l83qAeF-uM4RwnysxB4Mwomo3IDFVP6RPClpwxgLwdr9d9hYO_dvrD5CoSfJ8QdkjCwzUHQIs/s1600/Corcovado-53.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And FINALLY, we saw the illusive and really weird looking Baird's Tapir. Part of the horse family, this strange cross between a pig and an anteater lives in the jungle but takes frequent swims in the ocean. We kept seeing its tracks going in and out of the water and jungle, always knowing that we had just missed it. But not this time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCK_ysRLsTEiLHbPqIVRN2JoeuohOJAsTKvmtoo3C2f_Ykzy8ebIIbJ8yaV3SAH7HwXU_1bU2UWCoKGo6vSwAmymgrusSoVJW4v6baYC1w1oMXPcpz3FYpBnCEsii83gPK6669xNmHZw4/s1600/Corcovado-54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCK_ysRLsTEiLHbPqIVRN2JoeuohOJAsTKvmtoo3C2f_Ykzy8ebIIbJ8yaV3SAH7HwXU_1bU2UWCoKGo6vSwAmymgrusSoVJW4v6baYC1w1oMXPcpz3FYpBnCEsii83gPK6669xNmHZw4/s1600/Corcovado-54.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
After all of that searching and Alvero's excitement, it was pretty cool to finally see one. We watched it for a while as it went on the beach to look for some food. <br />
<br />
After that, we saw a few more specifies before finally getting back.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS03wDXgYvCMpaYvynJbebmbkv-IJaCOJWLK0JER4ADnBJpB8uRb-88xq1Sg1_VZSU9nmY9sUI_NcSGScwVJLcFaxB2h5-r6Q58m70qfdQ0LBWpTp88UVGm8xj-tiOzZcKn5OHwloFNOQ/s1600/Corcovado-57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS03wDXgYvCMpaYvynJbebmbkv-IJaCOJWLK0JER4ADnBJpB8uRb-88xq1Sg1_VZSU9nmY9sUI_NcSGScwVJLcFaxB2h5-r6Q58m70qfdQ0LBWpTp88UVGm8xj-tiOzZcKn5OHwloFNOQ/s1600/Corcovado-57.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
Here is a Golden-naped Woodpecker.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiffw0lLcUctMjEAXTGix-EuUxESWy-irodLtDl1cvFkfmzn5qtL8u0u8oRIIzSgKVuZRE1PZey0TMZQAlbZU3ID4OKwc_YwcGCowzgRSzJ1IAnXJsXam0I-2u8iJ9ZWyapsKnPJGriG_4/s1600/Corcovado-64.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiffw0lLcUctMjEAXTGix-EuUxESWy-irodLtDl1cvFkfmzn5qtL8u0u8oRIIzSgKVuZRE1PZey0TMZQAlbZU3ID4OKwc_YwcGCowzgRSzJ1IAnXJsXam0I-2u8iJ9ZWyapsKnPJGriG_4/s1600/Corcovado-64.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
The terrifying Golden Silk Orb-Weaver<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnm6vSP3tkCLbsGOpORa-Okk-U6drmW_kaOqqYPtVoJeQh20nRDKE6FcrdclV97KLrnZWb2FKNPlkJGI6x669YOLmG6QMWfQ66uqpRL0TYqOCA4FCvo3NjkuskqeeANtGAb_wrNFolbxw/s1600/Corcovado-65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnm6vSP3tkCLbsGOpORa-Okk-U6drmW_kaOqqYPtVoJeQh20nRDKE6FcrdclV97KLrnZWb2FKNPlkJGI6x669YOLmG6QMWfQ66uqpRL0TYqOCA4FCvo3NjkuskqeeANtGAb_wrNFolbxw/s1600/Corcovado-65.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
I'm not sure what this little guy is called, but from referencing Google Image, some seem to call it the Jesus Chris Lizard. Seems like a pretty silly name, but then again, there are many silly named things.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UXGNHz-Ypr75r_q8ChbSYz2rwBcTWexgfFSdGroJYliFgsDaoaSd6wqEJmsoV78QYfZ-UKuw2OTbcZWjNuGSrSsbtcpHv_nIidKKwbthGMFzRC7HseIkRHjyc761iNEhiJackdURhCY/s1600/Corcovado-68.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UXGNHz-Ypr75r_q8ChbSYz2rwBcTWexgfFSdGroJYliFgsDaoaSd6wqEJmsoV78QYfZ-UKuw2OTbcZWjNuGSrSsbtcpHv_nIidKKwbthGMFzRC7HseIkRHjyc761iNEhiJackdURhCY/s1600/Corcovado-68.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
And lastly, this Little Blue Heron. <br />
<br />
I procrastinated a bit getting these photos up, but I'm actually happy that I did. It was nice revisiting our epic adventure and spending some time with these. That's it for Coast Rica (at least for <i>this</i> trip). Can't wait to start planning our next destination, although with the wedding ahead of us, it probably won't happen too soon. Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-12185889516494559062014-01-02T20:37:00.002-07:002014-01-02T20:37:37.271-07:00Costa Rica: Pacific Coast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Part 2 of the Costa Rican adventure...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our second leg of the trip was to the Pacific coast, where we stayed in a small, spread out town just outside of Uvita. This was our spurge part of the trip where we found this amazing hotel. Not to make you jealous, but a few amenities included a king sized bed with Egyptian cotton (not that I would know the difference if it was just plain old cotton), an outdoor jungle shower, our own balcony with views of the jungle and the ocean and an infinity pool, not to mention awesome breakfast and a welcome cocktail. If you want info for your upcoming trip to Costa Rica, let me know and I'll hook it up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is where we called home for a couple nights:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmR877baguHxGXd60ueKZ_6gud1CBeWOJLRSyEt4OFdWhhypy1G95aqtVTYuwAKQRDQsz9a3jxblJGvp5xzijy9h-r7tpkYLsp9sBcoQgsmyXtO3h0tQS_Gzw_LI9RDkLlM08YwRumOF0/s1600/Uvita-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmR877baguHxGXd60ueKZ_6gud1CBeWOJLRSyEt4OFdWhhypy1G95aqtVTYuwAKQRDQsz9a3jxblJGvp5xzijy9h-r7tpkYLsp9sBcoQgsmyXtO3h0tQS_Gzw_LI9RDkLlM08YwRumOF0/s640/Uvita-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the mornings, we would wake up to Howler Monkeys and watch the birds emerge from the trees. Probably the best place I've ever slept.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnMaGfKaFCKB8CLlZ42Mk2LuABZAh9FUzhMRpEHKhGh89vy7iZQD5pBAa3akgE-8I7tJHRCT9lj0K8TiSd8zZ9DBmNYcKX972UO0G9ZlZApT154g670JXuvymKhXQlFINA8KdijpWoVo/s1600/Uvita-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnMaGfKaFCKB8CLlZ42Mk2LuABZAh9FUzhMRpEHKhGh89vy7iZQD5pBAa3akgE-8I7tJHRCT9lj0K8TiSd8zZ9DBmNYcKX972UO0G9ZlZApT154g670JXuvymKhXQlFINA8KdijpWoVo/s640/Uvita-15.jpg" width="640" /></a> And in the evenings, we would hang out in the pool and watch the sun set over the Pacific. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On the best day ever, we took the advice of one of the men working at the hotel and went to Playa Ventanas, a secluded beach where the only access is through a guy's property. We had to pay him a couple bucks to go through, but he watched our car...best deal of the year!</div>
<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgiZdqBc5zrV0p6LrFFxpno33_EffALcyZuCz8FiJo7mdSzUV9P9cWN8ptzco9APqB5B0rJFN6oVAw4vgeVtEw5RDEpcSjR4jcEmPzODhmuG-O2WhIsk8N28J_w3mxtjHD-6lDKmiqPug/s1600/Uvita-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgiZdqBc5zrV0p6LrFFxpno33_EffALcyZuCz8FiJo7mdSzUV9P9cWN8ptzco9APqB5B0rJFN6oVAw4vgeVtEw5RDEpcSjR4jcEmPzODhmuG-O2WhIsk8N28J_w3mxtjHD-6lDKmiqPug/s640/Uvita-10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here is a view of the beach. There was maybe four other people there and for a little while, we had the beach to ourselves! Not only the beach, but the waves too!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHcFAo-KSKqu2bZCOPdWhVs29OhVeTMQKD1oubAygql5UMMqYD63XpsVdyAuTBLsp2kdPvuzVRM03kC_FmqWhisTINPo3CQI4qqyPlGBcsF1Fd2ZOsBKfkX0x_C7d9UjzONUbBi2RtN_8/s1600/Uvita-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHcFAo-KSKqu2bZCOPdWhVs29OhVeTMQKD1oubAygql5UMMqYD63XpsVdyAuTBLsp2kdPvuzVRM03kC_FmqWhisTINPo3CQI4qqyPlGBcsF1Fd2ZOsBKfkX0x_C7d9UjzONUbBi2RtN_8/s640/Uvita-9.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Casey caught some good pictures of me surfing. It wasn't the biggest surf, but the water was so warm and it was all mine! I was stoked too because I've only seen a picture of myself on a wave once, and that was a looong time ago. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Playa Ventanas also had a couple of caves to explore. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkh-BCnJYD6rmBEkfDrAgkka-hMcbVC2bDm3bOwnflrO-7NcAgB8iszU33fTdHENVZR3f3far8AZCxAEOjrkipgVjyH4uxiJq9-Uiz4nSPcrbRFoT1MirohBRI9LcKGZIi1GnVIcIbLBc/s1600/Uvita-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkh-BCnJYD6rmBEkfDrAgkka-hMcbVC2bDm3bOwnflrO-7NcAgB8iszU33fTdHENVZR3f3far8AZCxAEOjrkipgVjyH4uxiJq9-Uiz4nSPcrbRFoT1MirohBRI9LcKGZIi1GnVIcIbLBc/s640/Uvita-5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
I got a little claustrophobic with the waves crashing at one end and flowing through the cave, but Casey was pretty brave and saw the deeper regions. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ92j3JbOcwbWcdVvLG7YC_JjINQby5dB9fHyFLdSRwEYBSBdzFZPnIArFOIOn8-dzXyTFaeD8VnnKG6E2wxw72dfOrVtZ82bB2KE4n8iNPCNegN1BzRnhIPISe3RfS7UEAHkA9wYaMJk/s1600/Uvita-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ92j3JbOcwbWcdVvLG7YC_JjINQby5dB9fHyFLdSRwEYBSBdzFZPnIArFOIOn8-dzXyTFaeD8VnnKG6E2wxw72dfOrVtZ82bB2KE4n8iNPCNegN1BzRnhIPISe3RfS7UEAHkA9wYaMJk/s640/Uvita-7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here's a cool little crab that Casey found. It was so well camouflaged I have no idea how she spotted it, especially since it was pretty dark in there and I used my flash to get a picture of this guy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZChbGyTf2j0y2BJmtvhjeNCk_LQcVVB8RIUGrlHGggdey7xoXWDBN2gwe9KGfRycn_nji79XnfUy7WruIDq8Myw2FP1dnFD_1ooo7Qw_p9gT8fcCO9U45Cb9wzrAYTA5oXm62tKBry98/s1600/1GOPR0150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZChbGyTf2j0y2BJmtvhjeNCk_LQcVVB8RIUGrlHGggdey7xoXWDBN2gwe9KGfRycn_nji79XnfUy7WruIDq8Myw2FP1dnFD_1ooo7Qw_p9gT8fcCO9U45Cb9wzrAYTA5oXm62tKBry98/s640/1GOPR0150.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
This was my view as I waited for the sets to come. I could have stayed there another week, easy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisFjLsCTXtRLJQbGuQS-5JKayPFeLh4WxX11bSiJj_11CSc7SZHIoXtHrqIQqFcDUhxdGYwdr6ySosnfz14P032ON5tZ2YFafgd47QHt5PHmYt-bcKq35iiAqQuy_QXPyddPAZPFW80g/s1600/Uvita-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisFjLsCTXtRLJQbGuQS-5JKayPFeLh4WxX11bSiJj_11CSc7SZHIoXtHrqIQqFcDUhxdGYwdr6ySosnfz14P032ON5tZ2YFafgd47QHt5PHmYt-bcKq35iiAqQuy_QXPyddPAZPFW80g/s640/Uvita-12.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
The final view of that magical beach.<br />
<br />
Fascinated by wildlife, the following are some pictures of creatures we saw.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LIR-tK_7D1qNzz4sUL-DLcoEVn2F0e9q7isCezlxZOUdLbRSa6PPXuxsxyUMPBsZKCfcylDrCdy8Z2xiIzlzPWVP9rh8daNs5erjIS3jeAd_1ooWMUcO9Vz5B-m2v13asxBfBM3oS64/s1600/Uvita-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LIR-tK_7D1qNzz4sUL-DLcoEVn2F0e9q7isCezlxZOUdLbRSa6PPXuxsxyUMPBsZKCfcylDrCdy8Z2xiIzlzPWVP9rh8daNs5erjIS3jeAd_1ooWMUcO9Vz5B-m2v13asxBfBM3oS64/s640/Uvita-14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Leaf Cutter Ants. They are so cool, both as individuals and as a colony. We saw them throughout Costa Rica, weaving down long highways they created like specks of flickering confetti flowing across the ground. Some of their trails were so big that we could probably have used them!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2K3QHfPS9qG6843o-fntPNwghxnMceBC6hLhC3Vj4wEJl7wy61MwBpVgDZLqAKZZU8Z8yLExLgy8yrT0jIWNgAvQu_5r-ybS_ESj1aa2yLYrpi1f7ezs2baGDwB0YGcQUwYEuHdpCOio/s1600/Uvita-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2K3QHfPS9qG6843o-fntPNwghxnMceBC6hLhC3Vj4wEJl7wy61MwBpVgDZLqAKZZU8Z8yLExLgy8yrT0jIWNgAvQu_5r-ybS_ESj1aa2yLYrpi1f7ezs2baGDwB0YGcQUwYEuHdpCOio/s640/Uvita-16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Blue Morphose Butterfly. This we also saw throughout Costa Rica. They are so iridescent and beautiful and actually really fast. This isn't a great shot, but I was lucky to have gotten it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sZuFqx2SAx4GJuSdFvNQvn58Dobm6AJb-6tF7JhgVrnGvHfu0HkHnx_M-UsRUVKjkkbQbmvozzf1u3E0ffTzjJ0mwzabljskH8g6NM7HWefxUhbolcUCVY5xamWlwcHk1t9aeQbD6qg/s1600/Uvita-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sZuFqx2SAx4GJuSdFvNQvn58Dobm6AJb-6tF7JhgVrnGvHfu0HkHnx_M-UsRUVKjkkbQbmvozzf1u3E0ffTzjJ0mwzabljskH8g6NM7HWefxUhbolcUCVY5xamWlwcHk1t9aeQbD6qg/s640/Uvita-17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Not sure what this guy is called, but it was a pretty big beetle, just hanging out on a light. It would have been fun to feed him to a giant spider.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsfXzhJWrTKkqtKJt5tIvMZzU5_BcexL6hdP9mxYdUWjm4aG9a7AZPgW9-njR7ShlQVShCKKfMYr-FP3Nm2qisQWoHd6LDi_7iFY_Xyvgvwhcevkpqgv0gGy2Y0ktG1M02IqrIW0dUgQk/s1600/Uvita-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsfXzhJWrTKkqtKJt5tIvMZzU5_BcexL6hdP9mxYdUWjm4aG9a7AZPgW9-njR7ShlQVShCKKfMYr-FP3Nm2qisQWoHd6LDi_7iFY_Xyvgvwhcevkpqgv0gGy2Y0ktG1M02IqrIW0dUgQk/s640/Uvita-18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Also not sure what these butterflies are called, but it was a magical moment. They were fluttering around and landed in this patch of sunlight in the shade of overhead trees. I love this picture for the shear light with the shadow of the top butterfly on the other. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DIZe4xrXuzBl2q_9ezl9vlFBn-KD4opCwqLFH8ZEZx7LRc5mG8bZ2_0RR1zjLeSjCIjy_hXz0ikAAvI6TWYxUrpNz1xhG_bqDZkaVq6f8ztFRZ-c_iuC9TVK0GFwrEDz1zToAgTRF6k/s1600/Uvita-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DIZe4xrXuzBl2q_9ezl9vlFBn-KD4opCwqLFH8ZEZx7LRc5mG8bZ2_0RR1zjLeSjCIjy_hXz0ikAAvI6TWYxUrpNz1xhG_bqDZkaVq6f8ztFRZ-c_iuC9TVK0GFwrEDz1zToAgTRF6k/s640/Uvita-21.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Man did we see a ton of butterflies. I promise there will be more animal than just these painted flyers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnF_T_wW-tyq_M5_OV7goy63WEb7InXf9Z-OAQQU1npJuDXyJYk7JnRgD1BtG0mnZ17hVy9nT6Koqunow2ZbkBTRe-Y4f4o342rEGa0EdAotjEo7qDobxbBOx3yjKGMzvsGY6OsKjISc/s1600/Uvita-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnF_T_wW-tyq_M5_OV7goy63WEb7InXf9Z-OAQQU1npJuDXyJYk7JnRgD1BtG0mnZ17hVy9nT6Koqunow2ZbkBTRe-Y4f4o342rEGa0EdAotjEo7qDobxbBOx3yjKGMzvsGY6OsKjISc/s640/Uvita-20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
No creatures in this one, I just liked the composition of this. <br />
<br />
On our last day in the region, we found a waterfall not too far from our hotel. It was really easy to get to and there was a path to the top. When we first got there, we saw a guy slide off of it a couple of time and decided to go for it too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dJRobAo4ipVupujVa41rPIfAMj92YMZf8xlXRV-OtFDmXUO48eCFTpbal_32q4WfZ3_OeHZY3qzQb8YFJTvbka9XBdg31WB8yHEjdoaneR3HKY1A2BpJgruiFRHTb2_lzm13CCgTt48/s1600/Uvita-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dJRobAo4ipVupujVa41rPIfAMj92YMZf8xlXRV-OtFDmXUO48eCFTpbal_32q4WfZ3_OeHZY3qzQb8YFJTvbka9XBdg31WB8yHEjdoaneR3HKY1A2BpJgruiFRHTb2_lzm13CCgTt48/s640/Uvita-22.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I went first, sitting in the water and feeling the force of the stream. I let go and let it flush me over the edge. It was so fast and there was a little bump about a third of the way down that propelled me off and then into the water. It was all so fast, and with my mouth ajar when I hit the water, it chomped down and heard a crack. As I came back up to the surface, I felt a small, hard piece of something in my mouth that wasn't there before. Well ... it was there, it was just attached to the other side of my tooth. Yup, I broke my tooth on this waterfall. <br />
<br />
Not the funnest thing to happen, but shit happens. After some time of thinking what my best solution would be, we got directions from the hotel to the nearest dentist and in a few hours I got my tooth fixed...sorta. It's patched up pretty good for now, but not a permanent solution. In retrospect though, I'm really glad I got it fixed since the next day we went on a 20 km trek through the rainforest 3.5 hours away from this place. And <i>that</i> is where I'll leave it until the next post! <br />
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-24809684486214761172013-12-13T15:24:00.001-07:002013-12-13T15:36:07.167-07:00Costa Rica: Monteverde<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Over Thanksgiving break, Casey and I headed down south to Costa Rica. This is the first time we both had ever traveled to Central America and we had been looking forward to visiting Costa Rica for some time. Everyone we had spoken to who had visited Costa Rica told us such amazing and, at times unbelievable, things about this lush country. And researching the country in planning our trip exposed us to even more great things this place had to offer. We planned our trip based on three different climates: Cloud Forest, Rain Forest and the Beach. We started in the cloud forest of Monteverde.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Monteverde is located in the northern part of the country near Costa Rica's active volcano. To get there from San Jose, we drove about three hours, mainly on highways and then on a very long, unpaved uphill road. We knew that Costa Rica was known for their bad roads and got introduced quickly. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
After the bumpy ride, we found our lodge, settled in and crashed after our long day of travel. To finish out the day, we walked into town and tried out our Spanish at casual, typical restaurant which are called sodas. That night, we went on a night walk with a biologist named Sergio. He was awesome and showed us some amazing night creatures (most of which who's names I regrettably forgot.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvjW-B_cWNoM7d4fxmHdLtACPK-u7sl4Q-B51dK0510msDcgoxPQ-BIR0Uwp2dpebBKeDQaQbc27B8qV5MEkDemtI77U794QuRMs_pREDazw3SbvOPPWhfMddY6EC9FWBpX_YnyXlFXw/s1600/Monteverde-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvjW-B_cWNoM7d4fxmHdLtACPK-u7sl4Q-B51dK0510msDcgoxPQ-BIR0Uwp2dpebBKeDQaQbc27B8qV5MEkDemtI77U794QuRMs_pREDazw3SbvOPPWhfMddY6EC9FWBpX_YnyXlFXw/s640/Monteverde-3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
This was one for the first things we saw. Well, the <i>very</i> first thing we saw was actually a two toed sloth, something that I have been drying to see for so many years now. But it was high up in the tree and impossible to get a picture of in the low light. Anyhow, this little guy was a great find.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0LiIJa3lgt_qmNiISgVnbTr4u3uAANZ3b1Tkyf1e-2M5Hi0TeykTPiXzBM2KqrXxzcLKgCqDH7MMs9CRV13wyVs7W7qJVEwuy6NqrrxYmEiWP9LjCAbNTHOb_haMzGz2Ta_uEO7r1B0/s1600/Monteverde-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0LiIJa3lgt_qmNiISgVnbTr4u3uAANZ3b1Tkyf1e-2M5Hi0TeykTPiXzBM2KqrXxzcLKgCqDH7MMs9CRV13wyVs7W7qJVEwuy6NqrrxYmEiWP9LjCAbNTHOb_haMzGz2Ta_uEO7r1B0/s640/Monteverde-4.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
Eventually, after being handled a bunch and with six flashlights on it, the frog realized that it was outnumbered and decided to play dead, giving us a great look at its cool, underside coloring. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7akoqU8yRcS021Ab-khZBZYsUQLDTG9sCnDQZNiYFPBpd5eosW_etQR9CKhqJj1gxat20MO-91gbZdTMH0MvhG2HKoiohUFAYr9PFZTNL-6sVSLumRk2uqbAPfkD9_muFWEIXP2XFj1Y/s1600/Monteverde-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7akoqU8yRcS021Ab-khZBZYsUQLDTG9sCnDQZNiYFPBpd5eosW_etQR9CKhqJj1gxat20MO-91gbZdTMH0MvhG2HKoiohUFAYr9PFZTNL-6sVSLumRk2uqbAPfkD9_muFWEIXP2XFj1Y/s640/Monteverde-5.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Another cool creature we saw was this bug. It makes some of the loudest sounds we heard during the night.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEW6TSVWYLTwqbcc1KJLmX7rk6qiRaH4gqeweysxAcOz2yWWZXCX5CYImwrtzHnTBuSnBP6qgdHmKKye9yqYljV9Azv4T9Dzrgv3O3PHMYNHjgqSCZyZ_P3w4mzqhkPK0B9q1oZtJ5Sc/s1600/Monteverde-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEW6TSVWYLTwqbcc1KJLmX7rk6qiRaH4gqeweysxAcOz2yWWZXCX5CYImwrtzHnTBuSnBP6qgdHmKKye9yqYljV9Azv4T9Dzrgv3O3PHMYNHjgqSCZyZ_P3w4mzqhkPK0B9q1oZtJ5Sc/s640/Monteverde-6.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
It made that loud noise until this Golden Back Spider ate it. It was a pretty amazing site, especially with our guide narrating and predicating its behavior. I believe this was the first bite before it quickly encapsulated it with its powerful silk.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMp2_tK1SWWemF4HspwY8sNyvkzaIoM3hHsMCSx7ESnrOUHlxMXhDZom8QLwJZhLBSdW3giZqqn9PBAymPtTD-OGPzHXieMD1-njhHikhgloalD_-whLSBoy24HzKUdzdLK0upNPnFLD0/s1600/Monteverde-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMp2_tK1SWWemF4HspwY8sNyvkzaIoM3hHsMCSx7ESnrOUHlxMXhDZom8QLwJZhLBSdW3giZqqn9PBAymPtTD-OGPzHXieMD1-njhHikhgloalD_-whLSBoy24HzKUdzdLK0upNPnFLD0/s640/Monteverde-7.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Another spider we soon came across was this Banana Leaf Spider, appropriately named as we saw a few on banana trees. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGIpnDU34iI-avr13oofIAlC0qXMmPbWmZvOe5F1PVS0OYHe4hb7qCc_Re4gOlPGI6Day5AFbGjIyn93IRkXLuMkaWzS-pAMGr-kbw3TX3Bh5XC4kLsVC-0mgKQN1wYiT03nSYXSx0QwQ/s1600/Monteverde-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGIpnDU34iI-avr13oofIAlC0qXMmPbWmZvOe5F1PVS0OYHe4hb7qCc_Re4gOlPGI6Day5AFbGjIyn93IRkXLuMkaWzS-pAMGr-kbw3TX3Bh5XC4kLsVC-0mgKQN1wYiT03nSYXSx0QwQ/s640/Monteverde-8.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The king of spiders was this Orange Kneed Tarantula. Its body was probably 2 inches wide with hairy, gruesome legs. Bummed I didn't get a clearer shot, but hey, it was pitch black without our lights. Definitely one of many highlights of the night. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The following day, we went to the actual cloud forest for some canopy touring. This is probably the most well known activity in Costa Rica, as there were many zipline offers to choose from. We were very happy with the one we chose, with 13 ziplines of various lengths to choose from. If you know me well, I'm pretty afraid of heights, but this helped me overcome those fears. There actually wasn't much time to be afraid since Casey and I were the first of the group to go and they just hook you up and push you along your way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCK7rZj6ZJw1LJZWSMo6x-pswalR77UH4CLs5OtUtlCzWtvSHhQfxMUDtMJCg_mHalS3UjnEtk3Icxdd2z4JsNLsJt36xPYIom61v085zgnMXvclO0y6G4447VZNOtyes_jR4KOGRhZcE/s1600/Cloud+Forest.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCK7rZj6ZJw1LJZWSMo6x-pswalR77UH4CLs5OtUtlCzWtvSHhQfxMUDtMJCg_mHalS3UjnEtk3Icxdd2z4JsNLsJt36xPYIom61v085zgnMXvclO0y6G4447VZNOtyes_jR4KOGRhZcE/s640/Cloud+Forest.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is a little view from the platform of one of the lines. It was amazing up there!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/jYbwB0l8400?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Check out this video of Casey and I going tandem down the longest zipline. It was 3300 feet long (about 3/4 of a mile!) Tons of fun and I was so glad I had my Go Pro camera to catch this. <br />
<br />
After the canopy tour, we headed into the butterfly sanctuary, where there were 20 different species of the beautifully painted creatures. I didn't get most of the names, so here's just a run of the photos I got.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx55ohhrApqlmfKgja_wcUGpaz4bXBpfbzKCIUwhz_mee7yBuedASh0_bajxyRlRzgyalPX6_saG8_1ULvs8Y-CqHVbipoudCBwKVoAAvujQYVV0fv08TS-0D2GY0Z-EwmWs-uqZ3QU44/s1600/Monteverde-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx55ohhrApqlmfKgja_wcUGpaz4bXBpfbzKCIUwhz_mee7yBuedASh0_bajxyRlRzgyalPX6_saG8_1ULvs8Y-CqHVbipoudCBwKVoAAvujQYVV0fv08TS-0D2GY0Z-EwmWs-uqZ3QU44/s640/Monteverde-10.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_PGCiANAB1bbIt3W2PsHzX4nmbM6S7u83dqXhxYTdl7Gl5qaeQst4KSk5LOsbx0EcV-duoBXANozM2arxchZyJ6u29n8jV9EqmYQxpxUaEGFfkHf2IOTxwoykO0Xq6My6A0sJ3bV91c/s1600/Monteverde-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_PGCiANAB1bbIt3W2PsHzX4nmbM6S7u83dqXhxYTdl7Gl5qaeQst4KSk5LOsbx0EcV-duoBXANozM2arxchZyJ6u29n8jV9EqmYQxpxUaEGFfkHf2IOTxwoykO0Xq6My6A0sJ3bV91c/s640/Monteverde-11.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWYBuA8bb6LMWmuTnPX5GInRU20-k37Wj-Nq8hKIKRqsbowvIDvlZXKXocBAaQHowqPPa7n7YuR4GVRurchwA3J_LENdm-1bL_jQDI4eQIPdFFjouYCNv6mi_ctfu9m-gNtOp_NfzQJM/s1600/Monteverde-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWYBuA8bb6LMWmuTnPX5GInRU20-k37Wj-Nq8hKIKRqsbowvIDvlZXKXocBAaQHowqPPa7n7YuR4GVRurchwA3J_LENdm-1bL_jQDI4eQIPdFFjouYCNv6mi_ctfu9m-gNtOp_NfzQJM/s640/Monteverde-13.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ITzlQ0HUn5noQXsTgm7HmxLmctWU-gMy9Pt-C6nkVdrBf_K0xGPrRVRmt8_EooQ9PxRvJPHgtb5EAzESkK3vCSN40oUCTomQCA-oDtcmjbPw-zzzMVo1sio8KyxZ_VcR_MlWOzoCHlo/s1600/Monteverde-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ITzlQ0HUn5noQXsTgm7HmxLmctWU-gMy9Pt-C6nkVdrBf_K0xGPrRVRmt8_EooQ9PxRvJPHgtb5EAzESkK3vCSN40oUCTomQCA-oDtcmjbPw-zzzMVo1sio8KyxZ_VcR_MlWOzoCHlo/s640/Monteverde-14.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNIkBlyaTOSoZkv6XbtpRctfElP2SXFB2t3u6CvPVjA1YdNtYOHJo_AYO7lpPVsAFkHShzkc348tgb3x72LhyGnnU4FNjYg9LpfNBuOGMwhOg0RbE1wS8B_YjVu2GfHH5f26KW3csyp0/s1600/Monteverde-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNIkBlyaTOSoZkv6XbtpRctfElP2SXFB2t3u6CvPVjA1YdNtYOHJo_AYO7lpPVsAFkHShzkc348tgb3x72LhyGnnU4FNjYg9LpfNBuOGMwhOg0RbE1wS8B_YjVu2GfHH5f26KW3csyp0/s640/Monteverde-15.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
(Can't believe I got this shot!)<br />
<br />
We then walked across eight bridges suspended above the treetops. We didn't see too much wildlife as it was mid-afternoon, but we saw some amazing vistas and an array of plant life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0KOSnZtK_xlsipz4E_pPtp-u7U643tmqauYnVJIN0PNHyPoJerrKV2yYCZH9BZFUKT0onD_W6l49eKKHN2r-w9srws2nw0BrwSf6NtNHQu8CTvAxyEGKIBxPvKCzqUsa9xDNr8HrQisc/s1600/Monteverde-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0KOSnZtK_xlsipz4E_pPtp-u7U643tmqauYnVJIN0PNHyPoJerrKV2yYCZH9BZFUKT0onD_W6l49eKKHN2r-w9srws2nw0BrwSf6NtNHQu8CTvAxyEGKIBxPvKCzqUsa9xDNr8HrQisc/s640/Monteverde-16.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
The cloud forest, and Costa Rica as a whole, is so lush that everything grows and prospers abundantly. Almost every tree supported a variety other vegetation with air plants, ferns, vines, moss and flowers growing on the every inch of the trees.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-TbXFz7y0rqJN6lReEVrIGGlA2Mr9Oab_leCn6ZTng5t852nJPwYa_ACCV608QMta_p_z1TMXvqa5kOTEOdZY3_ZfbYmkLphsftr3mbFgfkVdKxp5W4qVxfN74DIwHrLRlexV7ORWA98/s1600/Monteverde-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-TbXFz7y0rqJN6lReEVrIGGlA2Mr9Oab_leCn6ZTng5t852nJPwYa_ACCV608QMta_p_z1TMXvqa5kOTEOdZY3_ZfbYmkLphsftr3mbFgfkVdKxp5W4qVxfN74DIwHrLRlexV7ORWA98/s640/Monteverde-17.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOUDaA6HbUwdtfmBqVPzh7PpqBlDjgRU6znDu3pQ0U9Ore2C4-kAeauOTbWdNXEXN1AtLL_P0JmcIlPcmFA-diyaKYPne8xDBCnVwVFt8NIvMaiMMwT5mZdV7KA5bUoOeWFLhyphenhyphenYBP6Lw/s1600/Monteverde-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOUDaA6HbUwdtfmBqVPzh7PpqBlDjgRU6znDu3pQ0U9Ore2C4-kAeauOTbWdNXEXN1AtLL_P0JmcIlPcmFA-diyaKYPne8xDBCnVwVFt8NIvMaiMMwT5mZdV7KA5bUoOeWFLhyphenhyphenYBP6Lw/s640/Monteverde-18.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
If I painted landscapes, this would have been an image bank paradise.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrOx-gUWUbXptbp1tFStP5BD_A5RBgJDrLNczxmZlNIqXZDnItCMYItrJH9oYdasEi0KJZv1jbTkyy78zfqI6LWHPYrQjyFY-bwCk7A9-oiUUP4R2QFUzwXvzZg-4S06gntN1VgVotXkA/s1600/Monteverde-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrOx-gUWUbXptbp1tFStP5BD_A5RBgJDrLNczxmZlNIqXZDnItCMYItrJH9oYdasEi0KJZv1jbTkyy78zfqI6LWHPYrQjyFY-bwCk7A9-oiUUP4R2QFUzwXvzZg-4S06gntN1VgVotXkA/s640/Monteverde-19.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
It's hard to capture just how high up we were, but if you think about this being the top of 20ft trees, you get a better idea. Again, such diversity of plants growing and, for the most part, untouched.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggVjJ4s9IZMnwE-kJYYnq84JhRg4eInlDqWmiw2rEdrPTjURWrHar9uza4G1tdBI8ASu0yXVwMACbzi9pgcKnl6L5_jiFHUXR5VbbERnAiMmQMnF_Wk3cF3nxK7XM1Ek1GxxjWtddga44/s1600/Monteverde-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggVjJ4s9IZMnwE-kJYYnq84JhRg4eInlDqWmiw2rEdrPTjURWrHar9uza4G1tdBI8ASu0yXVwMACbzi9pgcKnl6L5_jiFHUXR5VbbERnAiMmQMnF_Wk3cF3nxK7XM1Ek1GxxjWtddga44/s640/Monteverde-20.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-yNikze0Z_9AdVsY2xStgQkhvQgVYpmcKCmL5HLHJMUek2LVdQFzyY6whm2fdyZihetZuLT82K4o6yEw-dkCo5XMKJhIfLMC0_pAvdVF3NUXyjkTgGGxTvc17zCelCkNu4cnKLf5asI/s1600/Monteverde-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-yNikze0Z_9AdVsY2xStgQkhvQgVYpmcKCmL5HLHJMUek2LVdQFzyY6whm2fdyZihetZuLT82K4o6yEw-dkCo5XMKJhIfLMC0_pAvdVF3NUXyjkTgGGxTvc17zCelCkNu4cnKLf5asI/s640/Monteverde-21.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
I was excited to see this little bird and get a decent shot of it. It's funny now looking back at the beginning of the trip at my excitement because we saw WAY more birds in the later half. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPgoJSkcQZ-RX3UGTAHLORQRxuH1KtI5nhF_vPpTTrcHfM5XYW4kMo1gdQTcvf_CYw9E-yy8x3caot38q71e7slmg6Hg9DJFzWbPFNCDAnxHJAtEUT0WYCmW_chyyVcfpoHBr7wdn_qpY/s1600/Monteverde-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPgoJSkcQZ-RX3UGTAHLORQRxuH1KtI5nhF_vPpTTrcHfM5XYW4kMo1gdQTcvf_CYw9E-yy8x3caot38q71e7slmg6Hg9DJFzWbPFNCDAnxHJAtEUT0WYCmW_chyyVcfpoHBr7wdn_qpY/s640/Monteverde-22.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Last shot was this very geometrically pleasing fern. I love the patterns you find in nature. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alright, I need to go through the rest of the photos, but another post to come soon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-84055713904074415832013-11-06T19:55:00.003-07:002013-11-06T19:56:26.410-07:00Show Catch Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The fall always brings a bunch of acts out to the Bay Area and I've been lucky to go to a few this past month and, even luckier, been able to get my camera in too. Recently I've started shooting and writing reviews of local shows for music website,<a href="http://www.thebaybridged.com/"> The Bay Bridged</a>. Voted best music website by readers of SF Guardian, The Bay Bridged covers the local indie music scene and has given great exposure to photographic side of my skill set. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Definitely still learning and getting the hang of shooting live shows, here are a few pictures I've grabbed in the last couple of weeks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
King Khan and the Shrines:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9mnlCUbAWwX33i4C72b636GTprMJWeJUmY8mPpg-xWUv3Juy2Q-7mH9twG-wTUYKGwa2s_KOU4uBixBPeh2lpsKt8yMqASQtU67YeDd2064MdpQ2hFDigzRH3lRe-b3icJYh8uZqR80/s1600/101313_King+Khan_JC_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9mnlCUbAWwX33i4C72b636GTprMJWeJUmY8mPpg-xWUv3Juy2Q-7mH9twG-wTUYKGwa2s_KOU4uBixBPeh2lpsKt8yMqASQtU67YeDd2064MdpQ2hFDigzRH3lRe-b3icJYh8uZqR80/s640/101313_King+Khan_JC_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UV7nhBMfbYgH_DPtxX1vBwsn__W5v-s85ioS295Q_vfRVfLBSGp_rUOwKufYKPl5IQydiu5QUmXY2TkmlSnfq53DjqrMZ3C6aTahhaTtnRsWdd0bQk96UrcwyBpWf1PozcCxbNFQE5M/s1600/101313_King+Khan_JC_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UV7nhBMfbYgH_DPtxX1vBwsn__W5v-s85ioS295Q_vfRVfLBSGp_rUOwKufYKPl5IQydiu5QUmXY2TkmlSnfq53DjqrMZ3C6aTahhaTtnRsWdd0bQk96UrcwyBpWf1PozcCxbNFQE5M/s640/101313_King+Khan_JC_6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVM0VV3lhwbapCWCoLnaB8p9c3eKQmwghPebUwC0ruyABWt7raDwqo4nGUng1yIyzk7MhKxQnXxAOpH-20Zs7IHL1xvwS_vCidwmEGwEo1yZvDr9WVb4KSln4mgHVO5nHnx9uC_HF5Ce8/s1600/101313_King+Khan_JC_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVM0VV3lhwbapCWCoLnaB8p9c3eKQmwghPebUwC0ruyABWt7raDwqo4nGUng1yIyzk7MhKxQnXxAOpH-20Zs7IHL1xvwS_vCidwmEGwEo1yZvDr9WVb4KSln4mgHVO5nHnx9uC_HF5Ce8/s640/101313_King+Khan_JC_7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
MSMR:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip3Jj0IQ7ETLlGS_aJ4bA0iuLZTIFC6WRCCgKLQpun69Pifppa6gD1H_on-Bv4JPYQMyXK_q-yr_SCwXAoCuw1kf7pP68OwIDrZMy_K5Q7yDSYwX7LA2ZgD-0Vbfk1jlcvxwSIcYNqmnE/s1600/101613_MSMR_JC_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip3Jj0IQ7ETLlGS_aJ4bA0iuLZTIFC6WRCCgKLQpun69Pifppa6gD1H_on-Bv4JPYQMyXK_q-yr_SCwXAoCuw1kf7pP68OwIDrZMy_K5Q7yDSYwX7LA2ZgD-0Vbfk1jlcvxwSIcYNqmnE/s640/101613_MSMR_JC_5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJd-AEvFlFjOjTvz5kSyNiHR4XaqbcWI9NAThDAEhRE7T2as8RPkgSWRhsZHrzAJzVlEc2Cn_A6r64SFV8Z_I9ubVS6LKlduYUX8Fyimb_49WTLMvWN12YuZwKUHQKpZDi5hH4ox1QU-M/s1600/101613_MSMR_JC_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJd-AEvFlFjOjTvz5kSyNiHR4XaqbcWI9NAThDAEhRE7T2as8RPkgSWRhsZHrzAJzVlEc2Cn_A6r64SFV8Z_I9ubVS6LKlduYUX8Fyimb_49WTLMvWN12YuZwKUHQKpZDi5hH4ox1QU-M/s640/101613_MSMR_JC_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3PtfgeoMpWoyYQYB2VhX1h4maI6A_UrulfPQ8BvlfPMSA8sZcefld2rro0SroFAPkzyzetL5773_F8ScaaFrQMwHF5tv9aT5AMGb7n-8YIDhLvytLVJbaPM1wwEFyOaViY516ZraKsU/s1600/101613_MSMR_JC_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3PtfgeoMpWoyYQYB2VhX1h4maI6A_UrulfPQ8BvlfPMSA8sZcefld2rro0SroFAPkzyzetL5773_F8ScaaFrQMwHF5tv9aT5AMGb7n-8YIDhLvytLVJbaPM1wwEFyOaViY516ZraKsU/s640/101613_MSMR_JC_4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Glasser </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Tvy1hc_voN7G6atGR5U0Ee7nOHM9pYCeTAhImlEOxi2KfskTbwiHTtBS8bQ0UoYPblo7dtRObsM2DGW1aQsYvb1clvNWfP-3Et92Zcp-vY0yES_JRd06x5Awx_q_tu9wJU03bEgBIro/s1600/110413_Glasser_JC_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Tvy1hc_voN7G6atGR5U0Ee7nOHM9pYCeTAhImlEOxi2KfskTbwiHTtBS8bQ0UoYPblo7dtRObsM2DGW1aQsYvb1clvNWfP-3Et92Zcp-vY0yES_JRd06x5Awx_q_tu9wJU03bEgBIro/s640/110413_Glasser_JC_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvrq_CEEBXz7i3N898oEtjYcT9iw-GAWbrM89ohKqW9s4yFiiNispVjHTgBfG7ffc207EBU20qUx28LMxUfBB-CUtrP6tl_PM8WxkQ80lSvxj_NIUIr99m967aCCBeDCE0yEG1OsZ-NxA/s1600/110413_Glasser_JC_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvrq_CEEBXz7i3N898oEtjYcT9iw-GAWbrM89ohKqW9s4yFiiNispVjHTgBfG7ffc207EBU20qUx28LMxUfBB-CUtrP6tl_PM8WxkQ80lSvxj_NIUIr99m967aCCBeDCE0yEG1OsZ-NxA/s640/110413_Glasser_JC_4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-41108326331293644492013-11-03T22:27:00.000-07:002013-11-03T22:29:38.667-07:00Dia De Los Muertos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This past weekend I had the pleasure of showing a new painting at WonderlandSF's group show: 7 Deadly Sins. The theme mainly surrounded the cardinal sins with a few pieces, mine included, overlapping with the Dia De los Muertos theme. Saturday night was the opening of the show and also the giant procession that went through the Mission and ended at Garfield Park, with alters to remember those who have passed. It was a great night full of culture and community. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's the piece I made for the show. It's of an Osprey skull with some candy skull embellishments. I'm super happy with piece and have been enjoying some great feedback. Hope you all like it as well! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2WmNNCT3MO-TUox-JYxpRXj_NTReOzS-goAZlh8JyztE-sI5MEqzJx8oXkpzm2kfObTyhEim690CJEogil5WxfeB-E1wy1FLhISihlajjn9CHuTb9R0GvyenVCGKT762ykH7sF84l8g/s1600/Vida+Muertos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2WmNNCT3MO-TUox-JYxpRXj_NTReOzS-goAZlh8JyztE-sI5MEqzJx8oXkpzm2kfObTyhEim690CJEogil5WxfeB-E1wy1FLhISihlajjn9CHuTb9R0GvyenVCGKT762ykH7sF84l8g/s640/Vida+Muertos.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-40787509620680838012013-10-11T23:50:00.000-07:002013-10-11T23:50:08.632-07:00Catch Up Work<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Playing catch up here. I've been pretty relaxed with my updates this summer and wanted to share some recent works I did in the last few months. Things have been pretty busy, with a fair amount of commission work and continuing my birds. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This first one was a piece for the <a href="http://www.rockandrawhide.org/">Rock and Rawhide</a> Gala. They are a New York animal adoption advocacy group and I painted and donated this one to be auctioned off. Haven't done my best to follow up with the gala, but I hope it made them some moola. </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1bYOVA6qFXXgDar8-eK6iQDLn9WhqlbIfab-anaOPZmXyWzbUfcjdlAjYgqm20Neh3NkoghYWzJJHoCfez_eNy681HkCcmhDXii3ezrSwAuTx6Qr1xteerXn6bxfZD0QrD34-xrzPB8/s1600/Bruno.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1bYOVA6qFXXgDar8-eK6iQDLn9WhqlbIfab-anaOPZmXyWzbUfcjdlAjYgqm20Neh3NkoghYWzJJHoCfez_eNy681HkCcmhDXii3ezrSwAuTx6Qr1xteerXn6bxfZD0QrD34-xrzPB8/s640/Bruno.jpg" width="554" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The dog above is the adorable, yet extremely masculine Bruno, Casey's co-worker's dog. We got a chance to dog sit this guys for a day and I took the opportunity to both give him a shower and get some good action shots. Naturally, I sent Bruno's owner some pictures that I took him and of the painting I did of him, and he was so stoked on it that he wanted his own. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's what I painted him:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIccSZvvSIweeavpTqcTDVZQ33fNd3h8CGwUDJERp7DflMZ_g_w0GVMW09FZofGiQaHCTQcxne5HYq5IpOmJla1d6GHFKHNdugM5y7tgUaJafeN8U5NKXdyRTDsMtXCVqhiAi5iVBhy60/s1600/Bruno2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIccSZvvSIweeavpTqcTDVZQ33fNd3h8CGwUDJERp7DflMZ_g_w0GVMW09FZofGiQaHCTQcxne5HYq5IpOmJla1d6GHFKHNdugM5y7tgUaJafeN8U5NKXdyRTDsMtXCVqhiAi5iVBhy60/s640/Bruno2.jpg" width="552" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'd like to think that I don't rank paintings, but I do and I like this one better. It's amazing, looking at the difference between the two, what painting for free as opposed to painting for a set price looks like. Not sure if I can draw hard conclusions from this exercise, but it's interesting nonetheless and my weird perfectionism seems to come out under pressure. </div>
<br />
On to birds. I had taken a break from them, so it was time to get back to it. Currently, I'm displaying nine of my birds and in anticipation of this show I painted a couple birds to be part of it. <br />
<br />
The first is the Aplomado Falcon. I took some liberties on its coloration here, but in general, it's probably one of the cooler colored raptors. Plus, that tail is pretty hard to beat. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWd4ilKz3PXT288h0XiV9PrOnLqIZ90dhu6C52Pv99zq9ERlLorkhkVrKHThsmPhQkz5_eGuEvOikndVW5_6cRBF3sFVch7-Ekr7eIopv499K7BwetwU3mZ1V2pwASwTReU64-UPb6mk/s1600/APLOMADO+FALCON.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWd4ilKz3PXT288h0XiV9PrOnLqIZ90dhu6C52Pv99zq9ERlLorkhkVrKHThsmPhQkz5_eGuEvOikndVW5_6cRBF3sFVch7-Ekr7eIopv499K7BwetwU3mZ1V2pwASwTReU64-UPb6mk/s640/APLOMADO+FALCON.jpg" width="610" /></a></div>
<br />
And then there was another Puffin. Had to do it. They are just so expressive and something about the proportions of their bodies is so interesting to me. I had fun on this one and feel like I finally found some balance between the details and the gestures. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwwCzU2qzSgHEt20_R3Dz19gJHx_lbKU4bMKvkQ5uA6153y6yodOuS7yd90vr40954dtvFaQPGIbtFloL8yhKsM4Pbp0_-9BK8l9Xz2SQrSToQOCwgy51wrbkawvGpLIOYA5IY-Qgs3g/s1600/Puffin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwwCzU2qzSgHEt20_R3Dz19gJHx_lbKU4bMKvkQ5uA6153y6yodOuS7yd90vr40954dtvFaQPGIbtFloL8yhKsM4Pbp0_-9BK8l9Xz2SQrSToQOCwgy51wrbkawvGpLIOYA5IY-Qgs3g/s640/Puffin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
These next few are drawing that I'm doing for Darwin Cafe's soon-to-be little, yet much bigger and louder, baby sister. The new restaurant and venue is called Doc Ricketts, slated to open in mid-December. These drawings, along with a bunch of others that I really need to do, will be part of the website, menu and other printed materials. I'm super excited and honored to be working on this project and can't wait to see the final product as well as enjoy a nice glass of wine in the new spot. <br />
<br />
You'll notice a marine theme in these. Doc Ed Ricketts was a character in a couple of John Steinbeck's books, as well as a real life marine biologist in the Monterey Bay area and pioneer in the field. Naturally, the visual concept and theme of the restaurant will based on his work and local, coastal imagery. (sorry about all the white space, just posting scans here)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2MrkNqyPubnMnvmqRseEoqZ89bsDqsy5y1-s1EB08BMH_oIExsscMUPizBrYH8n7XJ_cVH54xTuurHGhhspx6RogPyw3luRRH8w15IrzuLITR00YcQK8pLO5oRxHrz3Eac92dUqsvdA/s1600/Chrysaora+achlyos2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2MrkNqyPubnMnvmqRseEoqZ89bsDqsy5y1-s1EB08BMH_oIExsscMUPizBrYH8n7XJ_cVH54xTuurHGhhspx6RogPyw3luRRH8w15IrzuLITR00YcQK8pLO5oRxHrz3Eac92dUqsvdA/s640/Chrysaora+achlyos2.jpg" width="440" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJx5YMlAgfv0W_M2a9ZwAIsJmjpF5s6-LM90SAY54HhZx0iNy3O36vYXGCmmfU3NtmcSMjrCpw355OeSGiRGufP13W7ax3RJXMtUarjpv3ZGk-AgmHlwup3I_9pbKUlWCjOfAG0vAj274/s1600/Glass+Buoy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJx5YMlAgfv0W_M2a9ZwAIsJmjpF5s6-LM90SAY54HhZx0iNy3O36vYXGCmmfU3NtmcSMjrCpw355OeSGiRGufP13W7ax3RJXMtUarjpv3ZGk-AgmHlwup3I_9pbKUlWCjOfAG0vAj274/s640/Glass+Buoy.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmumTDQ5NlL36zxZGa-UskwbDmJ70Ey6ZIqTHI-aorjRvliccmUKVPA-zMGnDrY4YI9VIdrHNARTeU6Isd72GKYHLY5vawjFZyBk9svSlOvmiCRdvkSP0kLHY2Rq3sUiiSzPlpIBwn4d8/s1600/Octopus+rubescens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmumTDQ5NlL36zxZGa-UskwbDmJ70Ey6ZIqTHI-aorjRvliccmUKVPA-zMGnDrY4YI9VIdrHNARTeU6Isd72GKYHLY5vawjFZyBk9svSlOvmiCRdvkSP0kLHY2Rq3sUiiSzPlpIBwn4d8/s640/Octopus+rubescens.jpg" width="460" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgLbeOsdfZCLrFIDjWgYD8XbRJUiC0YGJjxjOqxhHwTcAmxHD63hahPhTxs4cWqXzym-RKBW-uf4lX42j0IIks7ALk3wZGCbwY7stfQJh8LPzDOcPlTFCU83YukXId5XzSYViWKCTi5k/s1600/Randallia+ornata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgLbeOsdfZCLrFIDjWgYD8XbRJUiC0YGJjxjOqxhHwTcAmxHD63hahPhTxs4cWqXzym-RKBW-uf4lX42j0IIks7ALk3wZGCbwY7stfQJh8LPzDOcPlTFCU83YukXId5XzSYViWKCTi5k/s640/Randallia+ornata.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That's pretty much what I've been up to since the Wonderland SF Show. Speaking of which, I'm working on another painting for a November group show there. I just started today and have a good feeling about the first pass, which is always a good sign. Hopefully I'll have something to show for it soon. </div>
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-76784194539723134162013-10-07T13:22:00.001-07:002013-10-07T13:23:29.914-07:00Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass is one of the most unique music festival and we are lucky to have it in our backyard: Golden Gate Park. Generously funded by recently deceased Warren Hellman, HSB is a free 3-Day festival with some of the best acts in not just Bluegrass, but a bunch of other genres as well. Since 2001, flocks of people have been attending this huge event, enjoying the somehow always sunny weather with friends, family and friendly strangers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some photos I took of the festival. I just recently started shooting for a local music/art happenings blog: <a href="http://www.thebaybridged.com/">The Bay Bridged.</a> This was my first entry for them with more to come! Hopefully this will make my posts here more frequent. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Evolfo Doofeht on the Porch Stage, October 6th.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
(The Food of Love spelled backwards)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG2xg2sjgxVB0sTLSLAWoX48JKZbFgkh02eGboYlnlUx7cq97O3ivOHg-TMhd7ZPMy0MbuGVxEp_NJmggtAsSRsHp7vZc8unpaqCivxn3ooVLdXH6ZbODzb_VLrr2-fmgWc3Nl8qsGpws/s1600/100513_Evolfo+Doofeht_JC_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG2xg2sjgxVB0sTLSLAWoX48JKZbFgkh02eGboYlnlUx7cq97O3ivOHg-TMhd7ZPMy0MbuGVxEp_NJmggtAsSRsHp7vZc8unpaqCivxn3ooVLdXH6ZbODzb_VLrr2-fmgWc3Nl8qsGpws/s640/100513_Evolfo+Doofeht_JC_1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
G. Love & Special Sauce on the Arrow Stage October 5th.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NaxfhAW7DH1XJR0GIgCp6Pvc8MS6gEmntpjbnc-YHmXvLCLVJRyn3nkCKHZykd9WH0vVasegkr-MVmU1nsi59HR9Q-P72ilq3-xReYqx98ec2bdDWi0pEfVCsqhuUwsxpe6aTSPkje4/s1600/100513_G.Love_JC_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NaxfhAW7DH1XJR0GIgCp6Pvc8MS6gEmntpjbnc-YHmXvLCLVJRyn3nkCKHZykd9WH0vVasegkr-MVmU1nsi59HR9Q-P72ilq3-xReYqx98ec2bdDWi0pEfVCsqhuUwsxpe6aTSPkje4/s640/100513_G.Love_JC_3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Local heros Sonny & The Sunsets on the Towers of Gold Stage October 5th</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJsVTBcyZbWYwS13NWkS87_WHuf46S152srWo_yqsf4dFG9IBrr-bUpfEZP01Xq3QljrzCXY6SXxL9A8LudBR7pYyoVk1PMmSGEX8mQO_0m0GSUkOkoXaZQjgCXYehiWtpBeVNUwYeLE/s1600/100513_SonnyandtheSunsets_JC_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJsVTBcyZbWYwS13NWkS87_WHuf46S152srWo_yqsf4dFG9IBrr-bUpfEZP01Xq3QljrzCXY6SXxL9A8LudBR7pYyoVk1PMmSGEX8mQO_0m0GSUkOkoXaZQjgCXYehiWtpBeVNUwYeLE/s640/100513_SonnyandtheSunsets_JC_4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjem_HpQfnJ5LdHt4QzbQcFg5wL_EDqPZeAowvppdk6-MxuWBXuuiKYTF1rqPowHcF8pfvy6FzY0N1tOcwsSDS4Noexj9kzcsIkvqbXVutOqzH__6SMw5Y3GQWW2trsTVEp1H7tR7_TA_I/s1600/100513_SonnyandtheSunsets_JC_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjem_HpQfnJ5LdHt4QzbQcFg5wL_EDqPZeAowvppdk6-MxuWBXuuiKYTF1rqPowHcF8pfvy6FzY0N1tOcwsSDS4Noexj9kzcsIkvqbXVutOqzH__6SMw5Y3GQWW2trsTVEp1H7tR7_TA_I/s640/100513_SonnyandtheSunsets_JC_3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The banjo legend, Steve Martin & the Steep Canyon Rangers on the Banjo Stage October 6th<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAw_xCr0z0YnkTj-kTvfgxN8NZ-l1qR7_mnzogqWImlZwvFOm-zymoE07IttXsy6Wf6PJvdEG19m_E3lamb1FySt-6bIIeC_UdGhXKpr62mdaGcQixWAwrRt-1ZtWkZVFN7DTFAccSOM/s1600/100513_Steve+Martin_JC_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAw_xCr0z0YnkTj-kTvfgxN8NZ-l1qR7_mnzogqWImlZwvFOm-zymoE07IttXsy6Wf6PJvdEG19m_E3lamb1FySt-6bIIeC_UdGhXKpr62mdaGcQixWAwrRt-1ZtWkZVFN7DTFAccSOM/s640/100513_Steve+Martin_JC_4.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
with Edie Brickell<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLU3sj8G5MN0GGYt8iPpBL1gveL3MsVNGV8HLGZ0XDEyax7VBw7yFGH1J4nVux3pYjiLskfm9Nf6GMhLWTO0ppgS1XPKMKMXRkP286cdXhfiG5AZ8zGcVIlzRw1y_5eiGB06eJQBKBvNE/s1600/100513_Steve+Martin_JC_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLU3sj8G5MN0GGYt8iPpBL1gveL3MsVNGV8HLGZ0XDEyax7VBw7yFGH1J4nVux3pYjiLskfm9Nf6GMhLWTO0ppgS1XPKMKMXRkP286cdXhfiG5AZ8zGcVIlzRw1y_5eiGB06eJQBKBvNE/s640/100513_Steve+Martin_JC_3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Santa Cruz hillbillies, The Devil Makes Three playing the Arrow Stage October 6th<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqq7VZZJcFbrxzuLALEfMDsrFgxK-ZFcORH5OP3SON3BEG3lN74UgfvCF3O24S-inn4FZBb3ElcQkQysKuUDWOIDtsdcbhRIigKDivzWbUMppFZW-BnJpgRKSRstodH2-x3NKSjFtOaE/s1600/100513_The+Devil+Makes+Three_JC_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqq7VZZJcFbrxzuLALEfMDsrFgxK-ZFcORH5OP3SON3BEG3lN74UgfvCF3O24S-inn4FZBb3ElcQkQysKuUDWOIDtsdcbhRIigKDivzWbUMppFZW-BnJpgRKSRstodH2-x3NKSjFtOaE/s640/100513_The+Devil+Makes+Three_JC_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTPnJ14bXQ5wyej-6qJtDERzrHIBO8OgsT_bImEp9NnkJhwxA6oJEU-5AdGZR7hIf3Psp4v_eASRK5QCAxXQ7qRzys7CnUWsAksw0UmA3n2P_iGyvR-2sokmAobPeq4smBs3UfAVy7NM/s1600/100513_The+Devil+Makes+Three_JC_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTPnJ14bXQ5wyej-6qJtDERzrHIBO8OgsT_bImEp9NnkJhwxA6oJEU-5AdGZR7hIf3Psp4v_eASRK5QCAxXQ7qRzys7CnUWsAksw0UmA3n2P_iGyvR-2sokmAobPeq4smBs3UfAVy7NM/s640/100513_The+Devil+Makes+Three_JC_5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQkn7o217yLpCMtWJc24KrwNnWBGE-6pD8IZESOtf7ZmPnRbk__PtReoeWTsi1KIq4gYVWslcx4XQcEvHBI7vR4jyLPBkuFpbtnO8GgmgXX_pXNtfhNUORZRdTLqj1hGlKgKpmuDBkkA/s1600/100513_The+Devil+Makes+Three_JC_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQkn7o217yLpCMtWJc24KrwNnWBGE-6pD8IZESOtf7ZmPnRbk__PtReoeWTsi1KIq4gYVWslcx4XQcEvHBI7vR4jyLPBkuFpbtnO8GgmgXX_pXNtfhNUORZRdTLqj1hGlKgKpmuDBkkA/s640/100513_The+Devil+Makes+Three_JC_3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I learned a lot at this festival, from weaving through an endless crowd, to shooting in super bright light and realizing that an ipad was blocking Steve Martin's banjo the whole time!</div>
Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-78756779663508982013-07-21T22:32:00.002-07:002013-07-21T22:32:37.044-07:00Rock Climbing in Santa Barbara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For Independence Day weekend, Casey, Richmond and I drove down to Santa Barbara for a somewhat impromptu weekend with our friends Colin and Megan. This was pretty much the first time I had been down to Santa Barbara (the first time was on a waterpolo road trip and we were only there for a day) and was excited to hang out and see what the town was all about. Being some of our most outdoorsy friends, it was no surprise that we did a bunch of sports. Richmond and I surfed in Big Sur on the way down, I swam a 1 mile open water race with Megan, we all played a bunch of frisbee and body surfing, and to top it off, we climbed some big rocks. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've been to climbing gyms a couple times in the past, but this was my first time ever climbing outdoors on real rock. It was terrifying and exhilarating mixed with challenging and sweat promoting. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolbm5BrP9ox0FqLFPkgtZqx69tu_Vf_Z2iDvtkA-kYim8qqhJzWWEoY4mfmNpYoXeGr5AT4-crgOqxQfdl7K9_hjp0v_uF_TQp8l8jtSPl3O55STmuxssTvHmfQhj3Da0Jdrp-Vg2pv4/s1600/Climbing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolbm5BrP9ox0FqLFPkgtZqx69tu_Vf_Z2iDvtkA-kYim8qqhJzWWEoY4mfmNpYoXeGr5AT4-crgOqxQfdl7K9_hjp0v_uF_TQp8l8jtSPl3O55STmuxssTvHmfQhj3Da0Jdrp-Vg2pv4/s640/Climbing.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is a shot of Megan rappelling down to set up the first climb. Basically, she and Colin climbed up some shallower areas to get on the top and set up the anchor so we could top rope. Pretty courageous from my perspective.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTaB3IagwIMQHEwE14nrylJNKQqDyeeMQA2LkNb6jaFvzFxLIS4Hz4A8vchEra9GOH8R33V2M7BoDkAfm2GFHGaKBGeSsNVuggqR1jiz3U4BCJxBFxoLueW7ithzZuFp5WRk0wJfGdVh4/s1600/Climbing-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTaB3IagwIMQHEwE14nrylJNKQqDyeeMQA2LkNb6jaFvzFxLIS4Hz4A8vchEra9GOH8R33V2M7BoDkAfm2GFHGaKBGeSsNVuggqR1jiz3U4BCJxBFxoLueW7ithzZuFp5WRk0wJfGdVh4/s640/Climbing-2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is my favorite shot of the two. Megan is doing the first climb on the route that she set up while Colin is rappelling down from the second route he's setting up. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwYhX2i3gvYQtWNnLxiCn2_lUSTW_LYhPlAO4-YhnJ_Ibzb8viI1xrCx2v09oNtQwN-DgTtxCp7Qqwt4Adox8oeB8Anwt3C6SJEUWQJxwPEJRUlWYs2oHnaY_fnkpDmfFHEK7fs0rREI/s1600/Climbing-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwYhX2i3gvYQtWNnLxiCn2_lUSTW_LYhPlAO4-YhnJ_Ibzb8viI1xrCx2v09oNtQwN-DgTtxCp7Qqwt4Adox8oeB8Anwt3C6SJEUWQJxwPEJRUlWYs2oHnaY_fnkpDmfFHEK7fs0rREI/s640/Climbing-3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is Casey showing her skills and crafty footwork while she makes her way up the rock. I'd say she's about 45 feet up at this point. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DKBMyQd-dcj3ctNLC0p35K_ICaoDXplxV4OOvfQ9oqSgFZl2wGacicX0nKn3S73QQtbUmPFajBZH29IvfvwJqOF33KxB7kdihmbP0mYbJD4O0hehyphenhyphens-BQifoD4X2nBT7E0lutFqf-y8/s1600/Climbing-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DKBMyQd-dcj3ctNLC0p35K_ICaoDXplxV4OOvfQ9oqSgFZl2wGacicX0nKn3S73QQtbUmPFajBZH29IvfvwJqOF33KxB7kdihmbP0mYbJD4O0hehyphenhyphens-BQifoD4X2nBT7E0lutFqf-y8/s640/Climbing-6.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is a bottom view of Richmond making his way up. Bummed I didn't get better pictures of his climb, but I had only brought my point-and-shoot on the trip and my batteries were on the verge of death at this point. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNl_hi6BPa6XN-qssQEraDIh22sjUxqJe8fqG17681CAan3vI-n6MSNlAqx9Wk-j4pEiWiLRc3br8Mv13HUsYLHVAIzmUYe_4kcs-1FwoeXdFlgGt6RUyOzeV_8cXsksriOIfrchoGAUc/s1600/Climbing-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNl_hi6BPa6XN-qssQEraDIh22sjUxqJe8fqG17681CAan3vI-n6MSNlAqx9Wk-j4pEiWiLRc3br8Mv13HUsYLHVAIzmUYe_4kcs-1FwoeXdFlgGt6RUyOzeV_8cXsksriOIfrchoGAUc/s640/Climbing-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here is Richmond belaying me. Top roping is a two person activity, where one person climbs, attached to one end of the rope, and another person belays, keeping the rope taught and ready to catch the climber if they fall. It's a weird experience to know you're safe if you fall but still feel completely vulnerable. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8uYvKd6OB7MtX0wnvEjn6sdkb2d2T2MlExdQye5V6fl7n7lEjctuTVP_Pr_K0jTmCvlNc0fQoJNTpErcLDtEb-mySnnl7HcyAUUANcdSpGkrotf5uSKXHyZK0JHKXH6yyrl8KWjJnlFQ/s1600/Climbing-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8uYvKd6OB7MtX0wnvEjn6sdkb2d2T2MlExdQye5V6fl7n7lEjctuTVP_Pr_K0jTmCvlNc0fQoJNTpErcLDtEb-mySnnl7HcyAUUANcdSpGkrotf5uSKXHyZK0JHKXH6yyrl8KWjJnlFQ/s640/Climbing-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here is a sweet shot Colin got of me making my way up. This was right after a really flat and difficult spot where was pretty much ready to call it quits. But they encouraged me that it got better after and I made it up to the top. <br />
<br />
In the end, I did two climbs and made it to the top of each of them. To top it off, I did a mile open water swim a few hours later. I was feeling like an old man with back pains, but after that swim (or more so after the warm down after that swim) I felt pretty young. <br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-53087071748868881722013-06-24T10:39:00.003-07:002013-06-24T10:40:32.767-07:00Big BIrds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Man, I know I've been slacking on the posts when I realized that I hadn't shared these two pieces. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This first one was probably finished at the end of April. It is the biggest piece I've painted so far, at 48in x 60 in. Even though I haven't touched it for a couple months, I'm still not sure if it is in its completed state. But, I'm happy with how it is for now. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbklCbYTQX7TZhH1fuq3MEX4XvgblxM_h-q56ytMaoSFDKuobPJpHd01L6tcjVCOUDw1rQQD9kpK1zsi8SnOOi-fhOKXza-vaTMA2zeEg83-jXNRBL6iMp9QnjowCbk61atB2l3FbGj8s/s1600/Eagles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbklCbYTQX7TZhH1fuq3MEX4XvgblxM_h-q56ytMaoSFDKuobPJpHd01L6tcjVCOUDw1rQQD9kpK1zsi8SnOOi-fhOKXza-vaTMA2zeEg83-jXNRBL6iMp9QnjowCbk61atB2l3FbGj8s/s640/Eagles.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I am super happy with how this Osprey came out. Since I started this bird series, I've been wanting to paint this one and I'm glad I waited a bit and got some experience with birds before I jumped into it. It is 39in x 48in. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnKVe831WuSZXgvTXMm3osdz2fPr1rK0oNL_W7hEscqgOOgIqhJ07AcriOmXEpTxkPdL0p5KLcKHHbWla1pDynoq8SwGySvPS4xsLLwZhp7JRhKyvmVTc6wB5cQMNaMF1gd59BUta92oc/s1600/Osprey2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnKVe831WuSZXgvTXMm3osdz2fPr1rK0oNL_W7hEscqgOOgIqhJ07AcriOmXEpTxkPdL0p5KLcKHHbWla1pDynoq8SwGySvPS4xsLLwZhp7JRhKyvmVTc6wB5cQMNaMF1gd59BUta92oc/s640/Osprey2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-15433514308810470802013-05-15T20:50:00.001-07:002013-05-15T20:51:12.992-07:00WonderlandSF<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0JYE0pamgSmK9B_O-iH1vEiXxpyqirreXb9kPohF4M1N7rcwSbGGBUSLuj0LwZ5gJNIPaCkLW0qxTTS5C0NnXezeWFV9d1lqJgEyB0le0tAizBbhwjfX0tTOeeQtprs7NvpM0ZeXX6_E/s1600/Differential+Plane-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0JYE0pamgSmK9B_O-iH1vEiXxpyqirreXb9kPohF4M1N7rcwSbGGBUSLuj0LwZ5gJNIPaCkLW0qxTTS5C0NnXezeWFV9d1lqJgEyB0le0tAizBbhwjfX0tTOeeQtprs7NvpM0ZeXX6_E/s640/Differential+Plane-2.jpg" width="628" /></a></div>
This Friday, I will be showing this new painting at WonderlandSF's 3 Year Anniversary show. A few serendipitous events over the last week and a half got me into this show. It's a bit of old meets new in this one and is my interpretation of "Wonderland," at least my interpretation in less than a week. I'm really stoked with this and I hope it shows well on Friday. If anyone is reading this that is in the Bay Area, you should go check it out along with the other amazing pieces that will be up:<br />
<br />
Friday, May 17 6-10PM<br />
Wonderland SF<br />
2929 24th Street., (Between Alabama and Florida)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-17026674939595827232013-04-08T12:34:00.000-07:002013-04-08T22:05:30.620-07:00Zion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzxESGZE7F1ybP1eMh_33AInUoOnvxHSbUvJAh317A0SDe7OpIDRgClCDNy-hnaYgdaY54pCsI0P1fy212mOGab-_3QU6FqLMzn8_rNLMZbqwTIWRMgXVm4Z2Rjm6Kbh9TfsUxBOAFnQ/s1600/Angels+Landing+Pano.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzxESGZE7F1ybP1eMh_33AInUoOnvxHSbUvJAh317A0SDe7OpIDRgClCDNy-hnaYgdaY54pCsI0P1fy212mOGab-_3QU6FqLMzn8_rNLMZbqwTIWRMgXVm4Z2Rjm6Kbh9TfsUxBOAFnQ/s640/Angels+Landing+Pano.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A couple weeks ago, I reunited with some college friends in Zion National Park. It's a trip that has been on our minds for a long time and a break that all of us were eagerly looking forward to. Located in southern Utah, Zion is a desert landscape with huge rock formations, terraces, canyons and about a billion wild sage bushes. Here's our trip in a nut shell. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The above picture is Angels Landing, a rock formation measuring 1,488 ft and about a mile above sea level. This was the first hike we did. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifz6Jqkj4VnMr9xpISMN8CAVvKow4L_a4VnU1dj3n9H84s4GNBSxdpRmcuzh2Zq00EEVeR5gA_sDDMs5Pp3xxJDyOOiQkfuhLSHu49Pp9gDvZMwqsorXAGmS9uqEFlhmjq9mYuGWFIojU/s1600/Angels+Landing+View2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifz6Jqkj4VnMr9xpISMN8CAVvKow4L_a4VnU1dj3n9H84s4GNBSxdpRmcuzh2Zq00EEVeR5gA_sDDMs5Pp3xxJDyOOiQkfuhLSHu49Pp9gDvZMwqsorXAGmS9uqEFlhmjq9mYuGWFIojU/s640/Angels+Landing+View2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I took a bunch of pictures on the way up, but most of them were just less impressive versions of this shot, taken near the top. Even though I knew I had already gotten good shots of this, it was hard to stop myself from taking so many pictures. It was unbelievably magnificent. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSQCWaVA2W-cwM1EuKCFqGRnnV9NIKN_fr3nBJpHKdJ5sTz8T7XYim8EjmWGKp6b0XV4yj0WPW06EbZllNJ8p7tUnfnq9vmDUgMe8KTpn2AlwcXI9ZQHae_ctunv6wW-athHwmcW2vS0A/s1600/Angels+Landing4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSQCWaVA2W-cwM1EuKCFqGRnnV9NIKN_fr3nBJpHKdJ5sTz8T7XYim8EjmWGKp6b0XV4yj0WPW06EbZllNJ8p7tUnfnq9vmDUgMe8KTpn2AlwcXI9ZQHae_ctunv6wW-athHwmcW2vS0A/s640/Angels+Landing4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This landscape definitely was new to me with all the rust, mustard, brown and pale greens pitted against the almost turquoise blue sky. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lLhq5xRt_cOJwn4DVkj5gn21Y-7M5o5CCmjZSvsNVurOd2YI0Y21KTbtkELeO_bO-sNMtkabbz75Bag6cC0WtRnykkxmmSycNVCRqrMR2DTsdXTdmywgXibGu1mLVZV7AJoDD2XnE_8/s1600/Angels+Landing6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lLhq5xRt_cOJwn4DVkj5gn21Y-7M5o5CCmjZSvsNVurOd2YI0Y21KTbtkELeO_bO-sNMtkabbz75Bag6cC0WtRnykkxmmSycNVCRqrMR2DTsdXTdmywgXibGu1mLVZV7AJoDD2XnE_8/s640/Angels+Landing6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This is a look from the top on the other side of Angels Landing. Being pretty uncomfortable with heights, I was tempted and challenged with all the great sights below and the intense vantage point. But I feel like I overcame some of my fear on this trip, willingly getting close to edges to see what was below.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwvXFA8TWWP_9hezFgS_aUe9sicHn7Zns4DXJjZDXnNU7H57Us5BM1Z7awnULQpd_90yr5hu0rUPnitKyIhB3Sgrm-VUbLiiJQME1ldm3DHCVvcWiRijkFFVDry3R6RMK1SBVxakS0k8/s1600/Angels+Landing+Group2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwvXFA8TWWP_9hezFgS_aUe9sicHn7Zns4DXJjZDXnNU7H57Us5BM1Z7awnULQpd_90yr5hu0rUPnitKyIhB3Sgrm-VUbLiiJQME1ldm3DHCVvcWiRijkFFVDry3R6RMK1SBVxakS0k8/s640/Angels+Landing+Group2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here is an almost complete group shot at the top. You can probably tell by now that we had some pretty nice weather. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1MTuWgJapxs4PmLNfKHvAugT1oLIFHxXRYJjubk-1C0AxzpTAX1puBIQvkWteW9-TQkEutH5gJ3gnywo9T0WkYFibfgDWP9xGMNwbvPqAKwjnf9D08KjVdEhQAdCMKnyrGlCcXY1nMw/s1600/Casey+Angels+Landing3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1MTuWgJapxs4PmLNfKHvAugT1oLIFHxXRYJjubk-1C0AxzpTAX1puBIQvkWteW9-TQkEutH5gJ3gnywo9T0WkYFibfgDWP9xGMNwbvPqAKwjnf9D08KjVdEhQAdCMKnyrGlCcXY1nMw/s640/Casey+Angels+Landing3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is Casey at the top. I always find it hard to get a spacial feel in photos like this, but the tiny little trees on the rocks across gives you some perspective. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Angels Landing, along with most of the other well visited sights of the park is located on the east side. We rented a house on the west side of the park atop a terrace, where very few people visit. We were lucky to be so isolated and have a lot of the park to ourselves. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2ODQJaEXL_PGgWsXjCLLTqWwzee8IMsx6sEzix3ry4p2IJnl0qjNwQWF2cPj1glYdso4yg-A7pYTjSv3na2VMqwgWo_w_yMza6iPYMzZaGre9mAtU8rw_ThVyhz70ut7y7Rlf8Tb0ng/s1600/Kolob+Terrace3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2ODQJaEXL_PGgWsXjCLLTqWwzee8IMsx6sEzix3ry4p2IJnl0qjNwQWF2cPj1glYdso4yg-A7pYTjSv3na2VMqwgWo_w_yMza6iPYMzZaGre9mAtU8rw_ThVyhz70ut7y7Rlf8Tb0ng/s640/Kolob+Terrace3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is a shot of a rock formation right outside our house. It is literally a 15 minute hike away and probably another 10 minutes to a very cool lookout. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72NNgev_7GnB8cewxKszJdMuzn88s4xN95MuXddW0to0baQgP-WmFhQ072QZe0e2RYruT5Xau14WbTvBVcOOq8qhKyFprR7ktTGEOOvyyh5cyYvh2hOKDHTSo2K_tgDilAyD7afA_1Wg/s1600/Kolob+Terrace7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72NNgev_7GnB8cewxKszJdMuzn88s4xN95MuXddW0to0baQgP-WmFhQ072QZe0e2RYruT5Xau14WbTvBVcOOq8qhKyFprR7ktTGEOOvyyh5cyYvh2hOKDHTSo2K_tgDilAyD7afA_1Wg/s640/Kolob+Terrace7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
From our lookout, you can see where the terrance ends and drops off. You can also see another rock formation very close to our house. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1QtMkCftXf5kS0TpJMj9KSsfNk1hqu9xNPjtDP78szkvci3lAExrtjD3ViKyv7KTJMj_X3GfW25QiaM_jO7whLiUt7lS6QuTjfW52jiIm6nBYzmhl35ZSUkEM19YehGL0YvVfBmk78gA/s1600/Kolob+Terrace6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1QtMkCftXf5kS0TpJMj9KSsfNk1hqu9xNPjtDP78szkvci3lAExrtjD3ViKyv7KTJMj_X3GfW25QiaM_jO7whLiUt7lS6QuTjfW52jiIm6nBYzmhl35ZSUkEM19YehGL0YvVfBmk78gA/s640/Kolob+Terrace6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
From where I took the last picture, if you turn left, you can see the landscape below the terrace. Almost every evening one group went to this lookout for the sunset. I think contemplative, peaceful and humbling are words that can start to describe the feeling of being up there. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-UAiPXoOc09FbS31CVLqTo2CV2nJ-hDU5IusQ-ZFs7OPzUOs74r_1hU7PXYOQeLdR9i2r8B-OriqrjuLvemcM-jKEK77Nff7ngi2lxNSu0l0GxcdrE2RBpRFXuGP7B7OQhpjxA2hgWE/s1600/Nico+Looks+Over.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-UAiPXoOc09FbS31CVLqTo2CV2nJ-hDU5IusQ-ZFs7OPzUOs74r_1hU7PXYOQeLdR9i2r8B-OriqrjuLvemcM-jKEK77Nff7ngi2lxNSu0l0GxcdrE2RBpRFXuGP7B7OQhpjxA2hgWE/s640/Nico+Looks+Over.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This is our friend Nico, the daredevil whose threshold for fear baffled us all, looking over the edge of a rock that he jumped across to get to. We were all temped to join him, but realized there wasn't a clear way of getting down. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHcfBTjrmKC2AsCPi-C_n8sVBFI5dQ6Nh0ramJleRUd4lSvfRhRmYqj4aPo2DDHkaAhhxSN_9HVgBRaQCRDHio-oy_pyZ8K70sr6V1Kix5OBmhdUyfDgtc4WavQhOKu5AtER3MvwdWJQ/s1600/Kolob+Terrace+Dusk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHcfBTjrmKC2AsCPi-C_n8sVBFI5dQ6Nh0ramJleRUd4lSvfRhRmYqj4aPo2DDHkaAhhxSN_9HVgBRaQCRDHio-oy_pyZ8K70sr6V1Kix5OBmhdUyfDgtc4WavQhOKu5AtER3MvwdWJQ/s640/Kolob+Terrace+Dusk.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last shot from the lookout at dusk. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
About a mile north of our house were rocks with caves! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPyN5_pNwRinYs2nSR2SejDjsa29_vvASQZ2_37K9S3LvzuYuYSgAXV5V3KWsoeVR3QGp0AxLNz3n_ljB41jmVi3Bq4RTKAm8vbaME-7vPoc86qHcVR2f5VnOag2_6IQGSCCvPuU7vPE/s1600/Cave+Entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPyN5_pNwRinYs2nSR2SejDjsa29_vvASQZ2_37K9S3LvzuYuYSgAXV5V3KWsoeVR3QGp0AxLNz3n_ljB41jmVi3Bq4RTKAm8vbaME-7vPoc86qHcVR2f5VnOag2_6IQGSCCvPuU7vPE/s640/Cave+Entrance.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
You can see the entrance to one of the caves we explored on the left. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhks2HzKpRD4X3FFwzeQ06zROmPRYfNWJfv82cnz7DWFsKWoWYAoQ8yTO8lJ2oznoBtmyCfQ5FQ2Le0vcyyp-LPyRPasrQPET8w95fFcj2VNoi3WuTDulqT4B_SrCf2AShXFNFduvbAVOw/s1600/Cave+Entrance3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhks2HzKpRD4X3FFwzeQ06zROmPRYfNWJfv82cnz7DWFsKWoWYAoQ8yTO8lJ2oznoBtmyCfQ5FQ2Le0vcyyp-LPyRPasrQPET8w95fFcj2VNoi3WuTDulqT4B_SrCf2AShXFNFduvbAVOw/s640/Cave+Entrance3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Here is a look up from the entrance of that same cave. It's a short, narrow path through rocks to get to the cave, which has a small opening inside to the sky. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZo0xvTdZLRCoIHTxgLvF2sjIAHRPkaZwz92rfxRd4nz00YGJBJCnI8eH4a1wewQqR_sXhPwNSJnFVS9llJ3ZIOQRloNOBtwQ4bmEY135RBYqd0n3lOJH2QoeQ7UNAlqUIdvHtgQ-3Mo/s1600/Casey+Cave+SItting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZo0xvTdZLRCoIHTxgLvF2sjIAHRPkaZwz92rfxRd4nz00YGJBJCnI8eH4a1wewQqR_sXhPwNSJnFVS9llJ3ZIOQRloNOBtwQ4bmEY135RBYqd0n3lOJH2QoeQ7UNAlqUIdvHtgQ-3Mo/s640/Casey+Cave+SItting.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
To really appreciate the cave, you have to climb up a short, somewhat steep incline to get a nice view. There was probably a good amount more of the cave we didn't see as that climb was a bit beyond our capabilities. <br />
<br />
The second cave we saw was a trip to past.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k_EWREgImDBIzRfbsU5iv1imdQGiw5J70qH7NH0MBYJrrk69AOlLv1LRZnNNum1Kl-MljBpG-XLHdzRvThz8Za8IjGW7Q_y-AQmP-1YCGSt54pfX9Vt4p7YSgwQu_DFJNl8NEy98_mI/s1600/Cave+Drawings-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k_EWREgImDBIzRfbsU5iv1imdQGiw5J70qH7NH0MBYJrrk69AOlLv1LRZnNNum1Kl-MljBpG-XLHdzRvThz8Za8IjGW7Q_y-AQmP-1YCGSt54pfX9Vt4p7YSgwQu_DFJNl8NEy98_mI/s640/Cave+Drawings-4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
THIS is a cave drawing in the second cave. Hank, the owner of the property we were staying on, told us that these were probably drawn over 800 years ago. 800! It is hard for me to wrap my head around that much time.</div>
<br />
Here are some shots of the ceiling of that cave.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbnUCwWFHUFsPl7nFYzt8wt9Ce-j9ciQXdQadfAzqrvKPYBaRQyWxikYt5asptDcyibNKoRuRNPx0g8k5lKqu2jmCyviRbmNKUpO6TVGNwM7ew1EWOEtctNbhCeTrbOfwvVc65nDLmaU/s1600/Cave+Ceiling8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbnUCwWFHUFsPl7nFYzt8wt9Ce-j9ciQXdQadfAzqrvKPYBaRQyWxikYt5asptDcyibNKoRuRNPx0g8k5lKqu2jmCyviRbmNKUpO6TVGNwM7ew1EWOEtctNbhCeTrbOfwvVc65nDLmaU/s640/Cave+Ceiling8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This looks like a horizontal shot, but it's actually looking straight up. To the left is the entrance of the cave with some reflected light on the right. The colors were amazing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jQLmVHtQozN2WKhJW1ZvUujcHwbpcLZfzgQxCulzLdHLwFmusJKmbOyPvPDFZATEZDIlqGL__m4EzP11p7tPLfRLUuKgVjfXPfkkJFVsRE7aAKF-b5tkgmPoVqoL_6uAW4NMSqUlmzc/s1600/Cave+Ceiling5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jQLmVHtQozN2WKhJW1ZvUujcHwbpcLZfzgQxCulzLdHLwFmusJKmbOyPvPDFZATEZDIlqGL__m4EzP11p7tPLfRLUuKgVjfXPfkkJFVsRE7aAKF-b5tkgmPoVqoL_6uAW4NMSqUlmzc/s640/Cave+Ceiling5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is another shot looking straight up. All of the black you see is carbon from the years of fires that warmed these ancient people in the cave. </div>
<br />
I think the thing that most captured me in Zion was the light. Near dusk, you could look at a rockface and see it change with the moving light, exposing new features and creating new colors. The sky, with its fluffy clouds, changed shape and color constantly. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixjL5YzY3tjfHZuiqUk6mg55TlGq3QCWHbNmp3kIhKIcSrLnL68_0KDNB3qqzuLsvYkx_psu-kQnQqv1SSNUgkKgjAzIQ1XxJEsxxViEvgn4tryPx7nsQopLxLw7KVVo-1HR8Y1SHFcm8/s1600/Magic+Time+Casey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixjL5YzY3tjfHZuiqUk6mg55TlGq3QCWHbNmp3kIhKIcSrLnL68_0KDNB3qqzuLsvYkx_psu-kQnQqv1SSNUgkKgjAzIQ1XxJEsxxViEvgn4tryPx7nsQopLxLw7KVVo-1HR8Y1SHFcm8/s640/Magic+Time+Casey.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
On one day in particular, the light that entered the house was too perfect. It felt like we were on a highly stylized movie set. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GjSbNWULmoaJrS43fXadVqIy8OseVipd6-A7XRVk-Q7WtPn3TXIKk5MojgtA-euTotrPGnUCF0frDOaXqhj3HDF9bV92zh2CBXibFVqtMJOkavwASDjmYCx07Wp1yBtX3AvegxM3r5o/s1600/Magic+Time+Richmond-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GjSbNWULmoaJrS43fXadVqIy8OseVipd6-A7XRVk-Q7WtPn3TXIKk5MojgtA-euTotrPGnUCF0frDOaXqhj3HDF9bV92zh2CBXibFVqtMJOkavwASDjmYCx07Wp1yBtX3AvegxM3r5o/s640/Magic+Time+Richmond-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This is Richmond, finding some dramatic light while enjoying a cold one. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivsfHWKyoenIQtUiy552nflwiPh6JtoUvoyddt4x8MwHZTWwEkW40YtSRoeuz0wV-m9C02lKBRItx8uxYlaikAmaxYne-e0OsqbVnq0pxwoQGVhH4mm-1-oZb2Dj4K0uwwUYc52qMwas/s1600/Sky+View-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivsfHWKyoenIQtUiy552nflwiPh6JtoUvoyddt4x8MwHZTWwEkW40YtSRoeuz0wV-m9C02lKBRItx8uxYlaikAmaxYne-e0OsqbVnq0pxwoQGVhH4mm-1-oZb2Dj4K0uwwUYc52qMwas/s640/Sky+View-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here is a shot from our house, looking across to all of these amazing rocks and their layers. <br />
<br />
You can't really tell from what I've said here that we all had a ton of fun. We were adventurous, free, silly and relaxed; the perfect combination for a reunion of friends. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48AubCbIV5ilJfYU2t-cjPxGxY1hnRXh0uW1SHPQt8U_s5RTgp9CseXyokc6HuYMa0k2XQ3VoVZRHm6z073TQ29eYYbwMk6-Fj6Wf_1RsBWbHGqatTU4786JdVkD8iz2mtfnEhjAIBtQ/s1600/Group+Photo+Jump-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48AubCbIV5ilJfYU2t-cjPxGxY1hnRXh0uW1SHPQt8U_s5RTgp9CseXyokc6HuYMa0k2XQ3VoVZRHm6z073TQ29eYYbwMk6-Fj6Wf_1RsBWbHGqatTU4786JdVkD8iz2mtfnEhjAIBtQ/s640/Group+Photo+Jump-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-73452985573140371592013-03-12T09:50:00.001-07:002013-03-12T09:51:04.254-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Continuing with my current infatuation with birds of prey, I've painted a couple more. I'm super stoked with both of these and happy to say that they both had some viewing time with the public.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62YpCiUjYuhPi-GOqmfZD1J0DySd69BUBioOVl7joaG0N3JPCqBSAZL-yKw_K_xCrZAukADVqEtGEaxDtwYHa-qRM0a_R_AMdvPfRavn8ldFRS7MbQWILshTSEcCmVjcZ_opJN5Njj0g/s1600/Goshawk4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62YpCiUjYuhPi-GOqmfZD1J0DySd69BUBioOVl7joaG0N3JPCqBSAZL-yKw_K_xCrZAukADVqEtGEaxDtwYHa-qRM0a_R_AMdvPfRavn8ldFRS7MbQWILshTSEcCmVjcZ_opJN5Njj0g/s640/Goshawk4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Norhter Goshawk, 24" x 36", oil on canvas. Recently, I had a few of my paintings hanging at the Ian Ross Gallery as part of their group show for Keep Tahoe Blue. This was the last one I painted before they got on the walls. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdN-535JTL8ffisFl4TKu_dX60IYJVxihDW1tZI53VdTf5fXzT1A_-d38vrOY0Slot1VMmRsGeYQIP02d9OvhtVccHa1Spav6ugiL8ge66M6XsJ2pmHJPCu1hijVdKujDsWIXPZCmvJ0/s1600/Osprey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdN-535JTL8ffisFl4TKu_dX60IYJVxihDW1tZI53VdTf5fXzT1A_-d38vrOY0Slot1VMmRsGeYQIP02d9OvhtVccHa1Spav6ugiL8ge66M6XsJ2pmHJPCu1hijVdKujDsWIXPZCmvJ0/s640/Osprey.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Osprey. 28" x 36", oil on canvas. This one was a commission and probably one of my favorites. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90zGyLqrSIuBtE-v3beVBCf3sNmJOJPxJbTnOBtTEYY7Ai1vK9PGISPpNmyMSuYtOL8OJCkSh0cekknjW4oA_Ex6GCc99hnhQJ5suJ2Q5J_G5ne6D1gZL3OpXpA9_FiR0IJ39yI90gUY/s1600/Crow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90zGyLqrSIuBtE-v3beVBCf3sNmJOJPxJbTnOBtTEYY7Ai1vK9PGISPpNmyMSuYtOL8OJCkSh0cekknjW4oA_Ex6GCc99hnhQJ5suJ2Q5J_G5ne6D1gZL3OpXpA9_FiR0IJ39yI90gUY/s640/Crow.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Speaking of birds, I saw this crow the other day hanging out on the landing of my neighbors stairs. I caught this show right before I scared it off, trying to get a cool in-flight shot. Didn't get that one..<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-90816300841830828232013-02-14T00:39:00.000-07:002013-03-01T11:26:26.522-07:00More Birds!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Two Saturdays ago I had a small art showing at Darwin Cafe. It was pretty well attended and a great opportunity to show the new paintings I've been working on. I don't know how I managed to do this, but I didn't take one photo of the night and have yet to find one. But I have witnesses that can attest to the event happening. Anyhow, it was really great exposure and they are still up until Friday. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are a few new paintings that are on the walls now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9eT5SumS1Sc7lEm2LVcvCD4OFnD72h-7WhrjggjM5C64CxX81GTNEAP9wZbFQV0caCJtzIuRn4EkAos55YymoMXFni3kVdLTd9DeJrXBi6gTRe3hZt4G0bG7noWy6MxIVhFigbosFMA/s1600/American+Kestrel1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="533" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9eT5SumS1Sc7lEm2LVcvCD4OFnD72h-7WhrjggjM5C64CxX81GTNEAP9wZbFQV0caCJtzIuRn4EkAos55YymoMXFni3kVdLTd9DeJrXBi6gTRe3hZt4G0bG7noWy6MxIVhFigbosFMA/s640/American+Kestrel1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
American Kestrel, 25" x 20" oil on canvas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSWxRgPK0JFg1nZf46bDbl8YHt1Nf_nGI6798BT5n7jwWKGhfuDejXNiVjtCPh6Tv12tpubimHQVHbfJaC0Icm38WQFfyOnO_BG8qlY7Ot_po7dirvTDABu6rCLbui0QOeVO353uFBvGI/s1600/Atlantic+Puffin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSWxRgPK0JFg1nZf46bDbl8YHt1Nf_nGI6798BT5n7jwWKGhfuDejXNiVjtCPh6Tv12tpubimHQVHbfJaC0Icm38WQFfyOnO_BG8qlY7Ot_po7dirvTDABu6rCLbui0QOeVO353uFBvGI/s640/Atlantic+Puffin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Puffin, 8" x 19.5" oil on canvas<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL0Wtt66BmMKGsRwHitARzlRuKPvn_aHjD8gTU9sUaC8lq6BvCA02YNX8cK-KCKKupDBz55lvfyKEuMUtEE59RRLzNdnWjw-d9QbpyvDUEaSjDFxnVjiOtL7ZuLS-Fc43g-DrNI12Nh0I/s1600/Great+Horned+Owl1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL0Wtt66BmMKGsRwHitARzlRuKPvn_aHjD8gTU9sUaC8lq6BvCA02YNX8cK-KCKKupDBz55lvfyKEuMUtEE59RRLzNdnWjw-d9QbpyvDUEaSjDFxnVjiOtL7ZuLS-Fc43g-DrNI12Nh0I/s640/Great+Horned+Owl1.jpg" width="636" /></a></div>
Great Horned Owl, 36" x 36" oil on canvas. <br />
<br />
It was really nice getting such immediate feedback on the new work. The Puffin was hands down the favorite.Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-56543382366151161542013-01-07T23:58:00.003-07:002013-03-01T11:23:41.812-07:00BIRDS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
During the last week of last year and the first week of this year, my muse paid me a visit and I did some painting. It felt good having some momentum and I'm still riding it. Here are the fruits of my labor. More to surely come soon!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJl-VNlFmCZUyrzpOZa4KGuZSLfUoHUpSGj-eGHoKJKu3zYsico8Svdgmcxb8crt9OCWqoOdqs_X960benS79y9Un2IsSSqm-j3bOln7C-ogW-NV_ccu8lZK2AMswFfr40d0RIevt22kI/s1600/Black+Shouldered+Kite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJl-VNlFmCZUyrzpOZa4KGuZSLfUoHUpSGj-eGHoKJKu3zYsico8Svdgmcxb8crt9OCWqoOdqs_X960benS79y9Un2IsSSqm-j3bOln7C-ogW-NV_ccu8lZK2AMswFfr40d0RIevt22kI/s640/Black+Shouldered+Kite.jpg" width="472" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Black Shouldered Kite, 40" x 30"</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoRgdu3QBgUCY_twbOz7NhcMzupJCDMUClYQHhMgkCTImLl2BDW1rh2iLmFpNe898zxDqmt0fZe3ULH4ch0bjUSSNwPNydnFfOroqQe8uMK2CUrdd3UxPdVdFRbtWPZyccD3LHR0w9ho/s1600/Grey+Gryfalcon2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoRgdu3QBgUCY_twbOz7NhcMzupJCDMUClYQHhMgkCTImLl2BDW1rh2iLmFpNe898zxDqmt0fZe3ULH4ch0bjUSSNwPNydnFfOroqQe8uMK2CUrdd3UxPdVdFRbtWPZyccD3LHR0w9ho/s640/Grey+Gryfalcon2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Grey Gryfalcon, 30" x 40"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdcghex-wCc79PQncw2Iht6D6qR1DvwZnJJ0iy-jYxNMbLCNsDZRgnf8fO84we62uSCW8EIsmieSX8uMyWSrjoNhdU_sbHN40ElKOamu3swf3CndU1xyS_8plr91XK7p6gvlkM6QkYh4/s1600/1+Snow+Owl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdcghex-wCc79PQncw2Iht6D6qR1DvwZnJJ0iy-jYxNMbLCNsDZRgnf8fO84we62uSCW8EIsmieSX8uMyWSrjoNhdU_sbHN40ElKOamu3swf3CndU1xyS_8plr91XK7p6gvlkM6QkYh4/s640/1+Snow+Owl.jpg" width="608" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Snow Owl (horrible picture, but you get the jist) 40" x 38"</div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-20324614140394617952012-12-28T12:42:00.001-07:002012-12-28T12:42:31.175-07:00Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I did a few paintings recently for a holiday commission. They were a lot of fun to work on, especially since time was limited and I had to paint fast. It had been a while since I painted for hours at a time and it was nice to get back into it. I got a chance to do a few paintings this past week and will post soon. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCAeLJvQIz9IloqqV0WjEtn6aoXPu2VZ79pufSB3BkV-U7Hau01VGOTZ9jv2dCf1L4ioIAgooikW3DE1oJtao6NmAh8UMoqVgDSMMKAPMxwNqp4GNwIomhPZVBkI9S2bQUaFY9BWzj_c/s1600/Iris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCAeLJvQIz9IloqqV0WjEtn6aoXPu2VZ79pufSB3BkV-U7Hau01VGOTZ9jv2dCf1L4ioIAgooikW3DE1oJtao6NmAh8UMoqVgDSMMKAPMxwNqp4GNwIomhPZVBkI9S2bQUaFY9BWzj_c/s640/Iris.jpg" width="310" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlZe909VjoMNX5toVdY4dimqXSCtorVyjSYZKCArdP8NgKm4_peJwo2ukEjPRtKGL5ePcY2mx-eUx-ST2i2Zckjy_WKwQ4ksSGvKyYorWXjHrwD9qmz84IK_U65LyUruprJfX1iCUjlY/s1600/Orchid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlZe909VjoMNX5toVdY4dimqXSCtorVyjSYZKCArdP8NgKm4_peJwo2ukEjPRtKGL5ePcY2mx-eUx-ST2i2Zckjy_WKwQ4ksSGvKyYorWXjHrwD9qmz84IK_U65LyUruprJfX1iCUjlY/s640/Orchid.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-51FXX3MOOtwK0Z-j-8VBbk6EigFwaViXP-dDNFeV2H7bqOsmd0Gt4584npsB5LtuDr2AmowjSsck-Y816ymdqvdjmBdDZSCz5UFu2QhzNtXx44Qf78-rfEB_rxPc2vc6qY7uXytavMk/s1600/Rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-51FXX3MOOtwK0Z-j-8VBbk6EigFwaViXP-dDNFeV2H7bqOsmd0Gt4584npsB5LtuDr2AmowjSsck-Y816ymdqvdjmBdDZSCz5UFu2QhzNtXx44Qf78-rfEB_rxPc2vc6qY7uXytavMk/s640/Rose.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-68330680439575385232012-12-23T22:50:00.001-07:002012-12-23T22:50:48.735-07:00Catch Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The past few months has been so busy and here is my weak attempt to catch up. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Over the Thanksgiving break, I went home to see my cousin (first of my generation) get married. I didn't bring my camera, but the ceremony was great. It was full of emotion, laughs and a bunch of inappropriate jokes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Most of my time home was spent surfing and eating, but on one of the days, I went on a little photo excursion in Kaneohe. It was nice to spend some time on that side as that's where I grew up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDeThXiyWHpdRC2d3wrHSeiO23efqpy7FlCw2VGd8iav8ICMOSiflHsI3ss13tugyiU8N32OWJZbsD34hVfVXMxHPc0ooWilMwLOzTcqiTb4JrHDyFtOw3sVw_Z-MIQLv-7fy_uBixNxc/s1600/boat+(2+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDeThXiyWHpdRC2d3wrHSeiO23efqpy7FlCw2VGd8iav8ICMOSiflHsI3ss13tugyiU8N32OWJZbsD34hVfVXMxHPc0ooWilMwLOzTcqiTb4JrHDyFtOw3sVw_Z-MIQLv-7fy_uBixNxc/s640/boat+(2+of+1).jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
We got up at the but crack of dawn and headed to Kaneohe bay. I was super stoked on the pictures I took there, but this one I like.<br />
<br />
After the bay, we headed to Ho'omaluhia for some nature shots. Originally, I really just wanted to get pictures of the Ko'olaus, the mountain range that separates Kaneohe from town, but I got a lot better shots of things close up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCYycvkhHLSFFeOVVBQ9rGrgb21zMpUgc3iN2bHuWSP_ooWiRybTb3ow00ZtXbKOu03vp5gpuTeh1YKrTyW8YASJnx0YhEbvPsgIPEiboNfiOFg16D9M4QWnHNclYBsDPpc5dNzPOk2E/s1600/giant+tree+(2+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCYycvkhHLSFFeOVVBQ9rGrgb21zMpUgc3iN2bHuWSP_ooWiRybTb3ow00ZtXbKOu03vp5gpuTeh1YKrTyW8YASJnx0YhEbvPsgIPEiboNfiOFg16D9M4QWnHNclYBsDPpc5dNzPOk2E/s640/giant+tree+(2+of+1).jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
I think the best part about walking around the park was getting to see things so familiar and beautiful from my perspective of being removed. A few years ago, I probably would have just walked past this magnificent tree trapped with vines.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRWCVO6HpG4MwhteX-gjuFNOQyggfdsJ-i55H13N0icOUq-6qeNIO4s7gRKwB76o_d0QpDf4p84qhoJ4ljM73cgMWJ5rriNfcLbMwg6aaM2EMIasyMI7-PuSHTHSMGzdOi8lsNP1cj4c/s1600/hibiscus+(2+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRWCVO6HpG4MwhteX-gjuFNOQyggfdsJ-i55H13N0icOUq-6qeNIO4s7gRKwB76o_d0QpDf4p84qhoJ4ljM73cgMWJ5rriNfcLbMwg6aaM2EMIasyMI7-PuSHTHSMGzdOi8lsNP1cj4c/s640/hibiscus+(2+of+1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Hibiscus. It's the state flower for a reason and in bloom all year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguoF-YzHMbI_F1MDXrXe9l27cC5DLo2yrDC9ZwlVDuTY_GAGU05UX6mvkucsNcvClQsqqcCqksM2jz2cz0rZJqBaTl_GhFAJvjwN39R3iEG6DG87xi1g8-SC5ERyeHdAy6W7Ry2ualz7A/s1600/jay+(2+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguoF-YzHMbI_F1MDXrXe9l27cC5DLo2yrDC9ZwlVDuTY_GAGU05UX6mvkucsNcvClQsqqcCqksM2jz2cz0rZJqBaTl_GhFAJvjwN39R3iEG6DG87xi1g8-SC5ERyeHdAy6W7Ry2ualz7A/s640/jay+(2+of+1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm lucky to have gotten this shot. With a little help from Lightroom (Thanks Mom!) this one came out better than I had hoped. <br />
<br />
We also went to the Japanese temple and Valley of the Temple. I was, as usual, more interested in the wild life. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1oQuiMKFxiQobf_xhMFIk8yaYwVzQD5F8HWrb9qi_3euNcO20uYz90Ay9AF_SRS43exvlh9W4clyWy07ty1PLF9ZPaoVHPub04s7kU88zHH8Cvl9KkdVHnyCsORG3J6SwELOuKdFxY4/s1600/koi+(2+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1oQuiMKFxiQobf_xhMFIk8yaYwVzQD5F8HWrb9qi_3euNcO20uYz90Ay9AF_SRS43exvlh9W4clyWy07ty1PLF9ZPaoVHPub04s7kU88zHH8Cvl9KkdVHnyCsORG3J6SwELOuKdFxY4/s640/koi+(2+of+1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Koi of all sizes and colors. They are definitely conditioned to swarm when they see someone standing on the edge as they sell food to feed the fish. I wonder if they think we are god, feeding them abundantly...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5i9ty4n0ZTWawV8fOTLV_KGAqwg8QLAUIgLuH71sH1x3ZdonLeu31XcDg38uMzrAd868tqD1WMfB5enXgmnK5sxTIST65yuB9SWhp03ZTYo9qURM9hfLeRvcIFvWmI_F4jllOS0QpKZg/s1600/pigeon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5i9ty4n0ZTWawV8fOTLV_KGAqwg8QLAUIgLuH71sH1x3ZdonLeu31XcDg38uMzrAd868tqD1WMfB5enXgmnK5sxTIST65yuB9SWhp03ZTYo9qURM9hfLeRvcIFvWmI_F4jllOS0QpKZg/s640/pigeon.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here's a little pigeon, hoping for some of the fish food to miss the water. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQd0naSwjUATmZudEXOatFWjcfMZUyOBOBjUrrVkyKrfSQWRZxUyFaeoWIF_YWeLfBrrVG2XDtpM1bb388n0lwSR6rRdZK-FYIor1weA4uUSkdJ-tSdljLa_lXSw8UwTFFfgZXZwkIC2c/s1600/swan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQd0naSwjUATmZudEXOatFWjcfMZUyOBOBjUrrVkyKrfSQWRZxUyFaeoWIF_YWeLfBrrVG2XDtpM1bb388n0lwSR6rRdZK-FYIor1weA4uUSkdJ-tSdljLa_lXSw8UwTFFfgZXZwkIC2c/s640/swan.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Black swan. I got really lucky on this one too, with the depth of the water and the strong angular light.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Later that night, Mom had a few tricks to teach me with my camera. Every Friday, the Hilton sets off fire works, which you can see perfectly from Magic Island. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1pf5Zd-uj0im91s6HlndTAoTOE3vz5mhVNaqzsDzmH2zSvA82f9aP4hqWcJrgzTBxgodB2RN6t8uBlhm2d1lt8RoSNCTqbqi7-0nvxQodhi0bKDOxYvpoStidGd-ozWUZ6zVh3PG3mwg/s1600/fireworks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1pf5Zd-uj0im91s6HlndTAoTOE3vz5mhVNaqzsDzmH2zSvA82f9aP4hqWcJrgzTBxgodB2RN6t8uBlhm2d1lt8RoSNCTqbqi7-0nvxQodhi0bKDOxYvpoStidGd-ozWUZ6zVh3PG3mwg/s640/fireworks.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I took so many that is was hard to find a favorite, but I this one is up there. I can't wait for new years to use what I learned again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAYBIvRX464bIjX_bOhrgSApegPX1OBTrOHlt-gsOCXtkwnliKtV2JbMMsaQy3J_JSI4ymBP7Thy_xwzJYNV5T2GtQbgZiQCJPGKcMIqwGHBMdd3gtWQAf4-JbajJvmQH5CSuokdZemY/s1600/harbor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAYBIvRX464bIjX_bOhrgSApegPX1OBTrOHlt-gsOCXtkwnliKtV2JbMMsaQy3J_JSI4ymBP7Thy_xwzJYNV5T2GtQbgZiQCJPGKcMIqwGHBMdd3gtWQAf4-JbajJvmQH5CSuokdZemY/s640/harbor.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here is a shot of Waikiki from the harbor. Fun note, to the right of this scene is a surf spot named Bowls, which is where I learned to surf and was stubbornly loyal to, until everyone else got a board.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxbgprzAycf3K7-pXtiYaYJUeV4lCcWQlLTu6t9F6vDK-VB5JRWRdBFOrgtOOtxlQgcukHh227vGISXSP1lt8kOnrNx7KGtpbIQEm0uR-VdedQeUXw3sPDTFJo02b4y9Jr_bzsKqhMRRE/s1600/view+from+home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxbgprzAycf3K7-pXtiYaYJUeV4lCcWQlLTu6t9F6vDK-VB5JRWRdBFOrgtOOtxlQgcukHh227vGISXSP1lt8kOnrNx7KGtpbIQEm0uR-VdedQeUXw3sPDTFJo02b4y9Jr_bzsKqhMRRE/s640/view+from+home.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last shot of home. This is a view from Mom's apartment. I think I might just find it a nice pictures because it looks a lot like something one of my favorite artists would paint. Kim Cogan - look him up!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course, the last few months were filled with live music. It always seems like fall is when all the bands come to San Francisco. I didn't always have a camera on me, or at least not my good one, so here are a few.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01jI93IwEerlVoUKkH4zuzNYu_vezoaEusb1T7sW8S3rzPpSHp1hFMERzIXwjgHbbu1dVRBK9c03lwXo3QXUE9FkkzQvb_PBGDSORW4H6EkJuIfs1-fwsovhP4gW0NEj-hzc9XRfy8Fg/s1600/Ahh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01jI93IwEerlVoUKkH4zuzNYu_vezoaEusb1T7sW8S3rzPpSHp1hFMERzIXwjgHbbu1dVRBK9c03lwXo3QXUE9FkkzQvb_PBGDSORW4H6EkJuIfs1-fwsovhP4gW0NEj-hzc9XRfy8Fg/s640/Ahh.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Blasted Canyons played at Bay Brewed, an awesome music and beer festival put on my the amazing Bay Bridged. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SJNinyqkyqQI4rhNQG1KuFSnYrNIPVmVhyphenhyphenX17lNquLKrOUIkx-Q_nBdrTEj7jKumeR6WmJB41IMnyGFfPTAvtdroYq9p8P_MWEet3ubmmkCnKl4eEXErKQumr84fsyPOWB5Iy2Kdt6k/s1600/Guitar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SJNinyqkyqQI4rhNQG1KuFSnYrNIPVmVhyphenhyphenX17lNquLKrOUIkx-Q_nBdrTEj7jKumeR6WmJB41IMnyGFfPTAvtdroYq9p8P_MWEet3ubmmkCnKl4eEXErKQumr84fsyPOWB5Iy2Kdt6k/s640/Guitar.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is the guitarist from Bloc Party. Not much to see, but it was cool to get this calm shot with the heavy music they were playing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4ghywt1e6jIkaRFWA0k_BcweQ0alSX60hao5ktrLVPQEraKm5RENq-JIo_t0iTOvII3wXDVrqzrvIzFPMqYTbhYV8gMMtp-wZshCVqRWS6zonv640U6qtOZ-BTbtXa_dkF2didgVCdc/s1600/bear+in+heaven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4ghywt1e6jIkaRFWA0k_BcweQ0alSX60hao5ktrLVPQEraKm5RENq-JIo_t0iTOvII3wXDVrqzrvIzFPMqYTbhYV8gMMtp-wZshCVqRWS6zonv640U6qtOZ-BTbtXa_dkF2didgVCdc/s640/bear+in+heaven.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Bear in Heaven. They played the Bay Brewed as well. I love their music and am a huge fan, but the guy kind of creeps me out. Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-30405743943474233992012-10-21T12:20:00.000-07:002012-10-21T12:27:24.880-07:00Music Extravaganza<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last week was filled with live music. The fall is always great in the city as a lot of bands tour the west coast and stop by San Francisco.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First off was Grizzly Bear. They are one of my favorite bands and just came out, after almost four years, with a new album that did not disappoint. I was cautious not to get my hopes up too high for their live performance, but at the end of the show, I could have had them as high as I could imagine and they would have still blown that up. It was one of the best show.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGVbbmnIAPkk5XGEzJPG9pYaEM6-KK-NWd9QRY6MK4FL0zLuOpTGqo1W9ldxfGAPBbVP517Txic_rp7KF_jDUJQLNhLfNZumQWCnuwUuTuzYiKexXV61VK3OWHTmSMBlEIuHiRIgo0lMs/s1600/Grizzly+Bear.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGVbbmnIAPkk5XGEzJPG9pYaEM6-KK-NWd9QRY6MK4FL0zLuOpTGqo1W9ldxfGAPBbVP517Txic_rp7KF_jDUJQLNhLfNZumQWCnuwUuTuzYiKexXV61VK3OWHTmSMBlEIuHiRIgo0lMs/s640/Grizzly+Bear.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Here's a shot of those musical geniuses. <br />
<br />
Next on the list was Treasure Island Music Festival. In the past, Casey has worked the festival and all my music friends didn't live in the area. Now, Casey was free to enjoy the music and my music friends plus a bunch of new music friends were all in attendance. That, plus the most beautiful weather in months, gives us an amazing experience. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXwQ7AigEoGyQbNT3cKlrYFr56NKDKKbORXAZH84uOELccKe-7EVaTwVrxaJO630tTIvy9Fir7lgUXnKsx33Vx4n7fUw0WSiAxqtcbidV8q2qZ6natFdCP_57pCO5iTZORRfBhxCVLpRo/s1600/TIMF+Head.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXwQ7AigEoGyQbNT3cKlrYFr56NKDKKbORXAZH84uOELccKe-7EVaTwVrxaJO630tTIvy9Fir7lgUXnKsx33Vx4n7fUw0WSiAxqtcbidV8q2qZ6natFdCP_57pCO5iTZORRfBhxCVLpRo/s640/TIMF+Head.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This brave soul had his entire head painted with the TIMF logo. Pretty rad.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQn65godnbevD4xDqD2dfP3DjGFVr8npKsqIa1J7xj2emH14IqDgkic7lRbK_sX0cREZYrt9PQDCBg2ynkcEo2hdW2-cs4CyBGv-kBRgC900R9EVG0CNiDDLyr8FdHdRJrsEUZNfuUq9M/s1600/Devine+Fits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQn65godnbevD4xDqD2dfP3DjGFVr8npKsqIa1J7xj2emH14IqDgkic7lRbK_sX0cREZYrt9PQDCBg2ynkcEo2hdW2-cs4CyBGv-kBRgC900R9EVG0CNiDDLyr8FdHdRJrsEUZNfuUq9M/s640/Devine+Fits.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The superpowered indie group Devine Fits.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4nam8jkIwnImfXicg-Ik6P3s9hdkaoJ_b6Y4AETXz3loJMlDwJWEDKPe3UT-XUOfYFWH-sRpwyONTmY-Lx9DqOEXv7q_FAu7UilIa6BHyJHwyuuVkIh_t6yJj2C7OmsOOZ7jjYq9igA/s1600/Flavor+Flav.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4nam8jkIwnImfXicg-Ik6P3s9hdkaoJ_b6Y4AETXz3loJMlDwJWEDKPe3UT-XUOfYFWH-sRpwyONTmY-Lx9DqOEXv7q_FAu7UilIa6BHyJHwyuuVkIh_t6yJj2C7OmsOOZ7jjYq9igA/s640/Flavor+Flav.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Flavor Flav from Public Enemy and star of one of the worst TV shows, Flavor of Love. It was pretty awesome getting to see these legends.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0-MdM0-3kjF9a4-CEJ5AIcAWGR1_kPsuO_qZpFk4bc-1EIk7u3s1OLyoagwio2Lde7jR_lDX0HX3e0OLnPrbvGHtNHH7egRjYkOGPJUyHtkM-R0fh_yl24F6lvAA1bln7gZnOlno7LY/s1600/Gossip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0-MdM0-3kjF9a4-CEJ5AIcAWGR1_kPsuO_qZpFk4bc-1EIk7u3s1OLyoagwio2Lde7jR_lDX0HX3e0OLnPrbvGHtNHH7egRjYkOGPJUyHtkM-R0fh_yl24F6lvAA1bln7gZnOlno7LY/s640/Gossip.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Beth Ditto of The Gossip. We pushed right up front for this show and danced hard. It was a great show and a perfect festival performance. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsUjmP8Uj7qVin0c5ls79OvgJBys4gAbB7qlXxO1WcgkucbCBj4vDqbMr_pPpeKTaSPynQ0-L0Ogr_VtnTj3M9Jw6jWMZs2t2wcgaitl83JMJbGjx8UyQQvf7vIZLajVSQl-ibl0yv_M/s1600/M83-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsUjmP8Uj7qVin0c5ls79OvgJBys4gAbB7qlXxO1WcgkucbCBj4vDqbMr_pPpeKTaSPynQ0-L0Ogr_VtnTj3M9Jw6jWMZs2t2wcgaitl83JMJbGjx8UyQQvf7vIZLajVSQl-ibl0yv_M/s640/M83-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
M83. These Frenchies know how to build it up. Almost every song had an irresistibly suspenseful build-up that didn't disappoint at the climax. We all had a ton of fun watching these guys. Plus, I randomly got to meet them during the next show. I turned to look behind me and there they were, just watching the show like any other normal person. I shook both of their hands and awkwardly turned back to the music. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhddw_1xw_5so-mrs1BMoCqunOnjIO6qNasXfeVjDywZxaYviDW8Q-6ZVrbOkWjQvw21hwzXDej_m6MjCyiGaYNgPQ7AP-t6_-_L4Vl_Skx44I1bnTTeP0WLAFPzd5physrm-symBN8DIM/s1600/M83.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhddw_1xw_5so-mrs1BMoCqunOnjIO6qNasXfeVjDywZxaYviDW8Q-6ZVrbOkWjQvw21hwzXDej_m6MjCyiGaYNgPQ7AP-t6_-_L4Vl_Skx44I1bnTTeP0WLAFPzd5physrm-symBN8DIM/s640/M83.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
M83 again. I just love this picture because it looks like a painting. <br />
<br />
Part of why Treasure Island Music Festival is so awesome is because of where it's located. Just to the west of the festival is San Francisco and you can see the whole city, with the buildings of downtown melting into the trees of the Presidio. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNShuQW-22sVgJzJxKcwfn6J864HTPLV1sBuUymrCSMxNK4sg8K_tFjuvM8uT5jhbTfcTyfIiBM-vgNpgRVPzBV1m8Fqn47-qVIzojbtcmm-nVMejKQ040wqzamzkiRY-iEXFai2Fytbg/s1600/SF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNShuQW-22sVgJzJxKcwfn6J864HTPLV1sBuUymrCSMxNK4sg8K_tFjuvM8uT5jhbTfcTyfIiBM-vgNpgRVPzBV1m8Fqn47-qVIzojbtcmm-nVMejKQ040wqzamzkiRY-iEXFai2Fytbg/s640/SF.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here's the iconic city outline.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveygqC7qoOYTW8G39ruTM7mGU78Uwo3CMgqTn0DbzAqltVCY9ZpGHprLddv1Vn9WN_9nZ8JNNxpAsXJp28jn70l9RBlZhFBshICYEcGf1CHupGI5-Fqj1GWphXEA8qkq-3L69fJYIxm4/s1600/SF2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveygqC7qoOYTW8G39ruTM7mGU78Uwo3CMgqTn0DbzAqltVCY9ZpGHprLddv1Vn9WN_9nZ8JNNxpAsXJp28jn70l9RBlZhFBshICYEcGf1CHupGI5-Fqj1GWphXEA8qkq-3L69fJYIxm4/s640/SF2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This is a shot from the bus going to the festival. I feel like everyone who lives here gets a bolt of nostalgia and civic pride when they get a glimpse of this view. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1U23xcTlP0Dl6Iiskf_7-GaCdHK3BOCU3KiKqJUS7ctcc70M6XUkHjr2hUJrChvXIaqDE3a7ia9WDujwrWIITqZQkLoB-jLSq0TRtZYe4TM3_XXCm0AARoK7m_ZnIPSn6RRiuiSVT_U/s1600/Sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1U23xcTlP0Dl6Iiskf_7-GaCdHK3BOCU3KiKqJUS7ctcc70M6XUkHjr2hUJrChvXIaqDE3a7ia9WDujwrWIITqZQkLoB-jLSq0TRtZYe4TM3_XXCm0AARoK7m_ZnIPSn6RRiuiSVT_U/s640/Sunset.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SUNSETS EVER! The sunset just kept getting better, and slowly, everyone made their way up to the fence to watch. It was spectacular. If you look closely, you can see the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance. <br />
<br />
Another aspect of festivals is the inclusion of art, which provides a nice break from the high energy music.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOfv5jHpN8v8_a2kIaCK9l1o7ZtpP03_a5x4eCnTD4OdfYi2-5qVnr3k_TaONKIEkweQH2f5E2xkZatRJIQSL7_1MjcnJ4h2dcuamsNm3V_zKfu3dpYW8hmO8ehqyxoGMbRSCuulq9yk/s1600/Giant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOfv5jHpN8v8_a2kIaCK9l1o7ZtpP03_a5x4eCnTD4OdfYi2-5qVnr3k_TaONKIEkweQH2f5E2xkZatRJIQSL7_1MjcnJ4h2dcuamsNm3V_zKfu3dpYW8hmO8ehqyxoGMbRSCuulq9yk/s640/Giant.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This one was here last year and it's nice to see her again. The sheer size and mass of the installation still amazes me.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUPXYJ9z-vCaJPhgO6flntNigC_xxt14L-m8pqmx2wkGpPlXLIXVkOqHtB7CdXuLg0elg6gS3F7iyKz6bnfU7GDi4Otp1FZH7wuEvM2MwyW3Jm_jbAx_2q3NfdoWW6k49qxq0rqrnbY8/s1600/TIMF+Art2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUPXYJ9z-vCaJPhgO6flntNigC_xxt14L-m8pqmx2wkGpPlXLIXVkOqHtB7CdXuLg0elg6gS3F7iyKz6bnfU7GDi4Otp1FZH7wuEvM2MwyW3Jm_jbAx_2q3NfdoWW6k49qxq0rqrnbY8/s640/TIMF+Art2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rotisserie Heart on Fire. You can't tell from the picture, but this metallic sculpture was spinning while on fire. This stumped a few engineering brains that I was hanging out with. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSUkFLpUJlJ5rpuogvS0HuPDMxZGMiVqYULof5ozFVHGWJDVFwS-izB9bs-VD-kfS01x4AH3E9RLiYQ2ToMl_WSDFnbIca1cv3928uyik9LsFt7v2e2njFcm9SpbWvm8rxY9xLMpRM1Xk/s1600/TIMF+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSUkFLpUJlJ5rpuogvS0HuPDMxZGMiVqYULof5ozFVHGWJDVFwS-izB9bs-VD-kfS01x4AH3E9RLiYQ2ToMl_WSDFnbIca1cv3928uyik9LsFt7v2e2njFcm9SpbWvm8rxY9xLMpRM1Xk/s640/TIMF+art.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Flag art. Such a cool design on a pretty large scale. It seems so delicate yet is obviously pretty durable with the amount of tention that it needs to stay up like that. <br />
<br />
Well, that was the festival last weekend. This past week, we finished out the seven day whirl wind of music with Bob Dylan. I unfortunately didn't get a good shot of him, but we were pretty far back in the balcony and there wasn't much to see anyhow. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVe-rnqiLHOTwAXs07giMecDXym_rGO48o8w_e0I7w42Nu1kDjeG3wSDIZlE88nicoZts2l1oJlb5EEkzyDDcvaiY8JqyfNhwjq-hs2gBTO7MWMiqo2HueUFKwlf-Ig035M4C99MUaP2o/s1600/Mark+Knopfler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVe-rnqiLHOTwAXs07giMecDXym_rGO48o8w_e0I7w42Nu1kDjeG3wSDIZlE88nicoZts2l1oJlb5EEkzyDDcvaiY8JqyfNhwjq-hs2gBTO7MWMiqo2HueUFKwlf-Ig035M4C99MUaP2o/s640/Mark+Knopfler.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
What I did get was a decent shot of the opening band, Mark Knopfler. To be honest, his show was better than Dylans, mainly just because of the age difference. It was awesome to see Dylan, but he's getting pretty old.Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-32293449133649057422012-09-18T20:40:00.000-07:002012-09-19T23:15:14.119-07:00Whale Watching<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This past weekend, Casey and I drove down the coast to Moss Landing to do some whale watching. I'd say that it was more nature watching, but we did get to see some whale action.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAaznnHJNrrmd_dRVPxnizenRzfWS3mecgtCYFBt__079y_gThdwBRoYjr2-U6DStFpK2l7bcCy-r23hQyTE98nerpKUVvz9xxWXEYo56EjsIacanvVyAkvRkI60m9SGiYFM1EbuYDHXA/s1600/1+Moss+Landing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAaznnHJNrrmd_dRVPxnizenRzfWS3mecgtCYFBt__079y_gThdwBRoYjr2-U6DStFpK2l7bcCy-r23hQyTE98nerpKUVvz9xxWXEYo56EjsIacanvVyAkvRkI60m9SGiYFM1EbuYDHXA/s640/1+Moss+Landing.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We thought that the morning fog would burn off and give way to a sunny, beautiful day. But it's been pretty hot inland lately and the fog was pretty dense and didn't let up.</div>
<br />
We started out of the harbor, and almost immediately got word of a humpback whale in the area. We soon found it and the gasps began.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcDDrkMyKQnGICEMI9wNqAw5EXhITqCEd0tzg0TsN21jiBypUYKm27NFlYP3g2ht4jGDfgCkAeezog8y066GlIBk8BuXfbrjmEmqLe0dmpLf_ROaZZeTxFFyz5C7H6Vxy6ayHfHy-iLQ/s1600/2+Whale2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcDDrkMyKQnGICEMI9wNqAw5EXhITqCEd0tzg0TsN21jiBypUYKm27NFlYP3g2ht4jGDfgCkAeezog8y066GlIBk8BuXfbrjmEmqLe0dmpLf_ROaZZeTxFFyz5C7H6Vxy6ayHfHy-iLQ/s640/2+Whale2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This was pretty much the most exciting part of watching the whale. It was feeding and would stay under for about 12 minutes each time. But between each dive, it would come up and take a few breaths. When it was ready to dive back down, its back would arch and its tail would glide out of the water and slip back in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a few dives and with four other boats crowding the area, we opted to go closer to shore and try our luck with some dolphin watching.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxyg5PnGxpp8yj6GP8pYFJhD14h4fvn3rV6i87od7dOkDd1bkCZY8d5QCpPktc0YizaaIzohVe0gOY5WtTdVwug6kbRK7VyNY1wjf9sv_5hBA2KY_bEiVGVLmeqSHAnLky8ayE5uKo_OE/s1600/3+Dolphins2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxyg5PnGxpp8yj6GP8pYFJhD14h4fvn3rV6i87od7dOkDd1bkCZY8d5QCpPktc0YizaaIzohVe0gOY5WtTdVwug6kbRK7VyNY1wjf9sv_5hBA2KY_bEiVGVLmeqSHAnLky8ayE5uKo_OE/s640/3+Dolphins2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a short ride in, we soon found the playful pod, as interested in us as we were in them. They came up pretty close to the boat and one even swam right under the bow!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2wGq8ETMr8IwMnu_61x6Exo2YJNO5h6hZHvUPqsa6dCwuPgzQTFFRmOjfFpXcMSRvPgIvbJpAxWa_EdqPSXu-8lDgU5khcaZJ_JMaEdSJov-OxmpS0FLxaB8ZjB4EAam5jf4k73vcgo/s1600/4+Dolfins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2wGq8ETMr8IwMnu_61x6Exo2YJNO5h6hZHvUPqsa6dCwuPgzQTFFRmOjfFpXcMSRvPgIvbJpAxWa_EdqPSXu-8lDgU5khcaZJ_JMaEdSJov-OxmpS0FLxaB8ZjB4EAam5jf4k73vcgo/s640/4+Dolfins.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's the shot of the day, with two baby dolphins swimming close to their moms and getting a peek at us. The excitement on the boat was at its peak and we hung out with the dolphins for a good amount of time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We got to see some other wildlife on our boat tour as well.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinR3rpCpTw1rCq86lzUYnvbrIlEvH9kG-OycOsTjlfwbX0sD9WMOp13k0B46clED3eTTuSMlEN7GeVoGQxTAl8Y7oEZbwDHlYQ7eikf70xrXf-Ijj0oTtzQ3ski6LbQu9nqKWaLkNeIQI/s1600/5+Jellyfish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinR3rpCpTw1rCq86lzUYnvbrIlEvH9kG-OycOsTjlfwbX0sD9WMOp13k0B46clED3eTTuSMlEN7GeVoGQxTAl8Y7oEZbwDHlYQ7eikf70xrXf-Ijj0oTtzQ3ski6LbQu9nqKWaLkNeIQI/s640/5+Jellyfish.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Littered throughout the water were these Lion's Mane Jellyfish. At one point they were everywhere and I couldn't help thinking about Finding Nemo. It was pretty amazing seeing these in person as I've included them in a few paintings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQfbX84DRnDkfU52Qy98XHvDhOWFzWaHrjyVZbksqoY3S3lEOgb1oWX9RgupxXJSNuF35nUe_qxylYUYGVtrzoePAXZQ2v6RtFhttQD5S0XjQsUTaqnaFZyzt_QPFx9Ca7iLQTspQ4Ug/s1600/6+Seagull.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQfbX84DRnDkfU52Qy98XHvDhOWFzWaHrjyVZbksqoY3S3lEOgb1oWX9RgupxXJSNuF35nUe_qxylYUYGVtrzoePAXZQ2v6RtFhttQD5S0XjQsUTaqnaFZyzt_QPFx9Ca7iLQTspQ4Ug/s640/6+Seagull.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is what I'm going to call a seagull, but it seems pretty different than the ones I've seen. This one looks more like a land bird of prey with sea bird wings. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One amazing thing that we got to see, which I couldn't get a good shot of, was a 15 ft. Great White Shark. This sucker was huge! Mostly, we just saw a large, dark shadow swimming around, but at certain angles, we could see its white belly and make out its large silhouette. It was more exciting because this was the first sighting the boat tour had ever had of a great white. For that, it was even more special. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_EpF93yCal8XQ46iYTGJGYtfPThg5xA04QUFJvAS8u4MT3zcuXzDTtfN0QBY_9kx5QtIe-TtT9BcoLPqPS_k9ZXZcWnNzalwRZ9Cqy_zIjnQwbU88QZzkLvW4ovekBnS48NKiJ0zsgk/s1600/6+sealion4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_EpF93yCal8XQ46iYTGJGYtfPThg5xA04QUFJvAS8u4MT3zcuXzDTtfN0QBY_9kx5QtIe-TtT9BcoLPqPS_k9ZXZcWnNzalwRZ9Cqy_zIjnQwbU88QZzkLvW4ovekBnS48NKiJ0zsgk/s640/6+sealion4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As we headed into the harbor, we passed by a dock with a ton of sea lions. These blubbery guys were growling and rolling and flopping all over each other. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxRWIG8AAWByPiUgF8pUFnqHMzcP-rgy4-7DtnqjIAXRR8Vh2nj0hOVPfgpDrznZLN3nZpDXA5YPeKKZ7fBNhrbZn0_lEqW1wemWZ7Y0jb2ri5Iaz1neppHo1rugwLcCmFQTRhEuF1c4/s1600/7+Sealion+fight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxRWIG8AAWByPiUgF8pUFnqHMzcP-rgy4-7DtnqjIAXRR8Vh2nj0hOVPfgpDrznZLN3nZpDXA5YPeKKZ7fBNhrbZn0_lEqW1wemWZ7Y0jb2ri5Iaz1neppHo1rugwLcCmFQTRhEuF1c4/s640/7+Sealion+fight.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's another shot of a sea lion coming out of the water, climbing on the others and getting in a fight with this other guy. Pretty interesting fight tactic with the upside down bite move!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpx3n1VDJ6Xw5QzwSEn-5VEVYb2RnhxG2mBJZvjx5rch6-8JXyQ94RxT9FZR2Dwd-O4N-XTrWOJsmVLbpq0Jik42HYPSXL1HALiIxjTBxXldLVeMvMLqdFNGOM2ce2RdvHXuuTRaqQ_g/s1600/8+Perched+Pellican.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpx3n1VDJ6Xw5QzwSEn-5VEVYb2RnhxG2mBJZvjx5rch6-8JXyQ94RxT9FZR2Dwd-O4N-XTrWOJsmVLbpq0Jik42HYPSXL1HALiIxjTBxXldLVeMvMLqdFNGOM2ce2RdvHXuuTRaqQ_g/s640/8+Perched+Pellican.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'll leave off this this shot of a pelican, posing for the shot. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the end, the whale watching was actually the least amazing part of the tour, although it was still pretty rad to see such a large mammal. </div>
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-3192527001371754382012-09-13T22:47:00.001-07:002012-09-19T23:09:25.381-07:00Portland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Over labor day weekend, Casey and I took a trip up to Portland to visit some friends. Between the two of us, we know about six people there and we were overdue for a visit. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmGT8LsxI0amC9roH4PvOwkViyNHMkW2kSnOrGOlFuRnYjgA0nEF1aMIzcjLmaLJFBrhqqDSNN_DwuZbHc7rvrgRAdNOnT7fWtrvY9LbPo4IbnuYW7HsKHS1-GnF0zEA5aqJL2ap2K0g/s1600/1+Casey+Boards+plane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmGT8LsxI0amC9roH4PvOwkViyNHMkW2kSnOrGOlFuRnYjgA0nEF1aMIzcjLmaLJFBrhqqDSNN_DwuZbHc7rvrgRAdNOnT7fWtrvY9LbPo4IbnuYW7HsKHS1-GnF0zEA5aqJL2ap2K0g/s640/1+Casey+Boards+plane.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The plane up and back was pretty small and by far had the smallest overhead compartments of any plane I've been on. But, the flight was shorter than a drive to Sacramento and in no time we were hanging out with our old friends. </div>
<br />
The first night, we went to watch the Swifts. It sounds like an awesome band, but its actually an amazing, natural phenomenon that occurs in September at this elementary school:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4v2ErfU1614idCjA62bY9AZWJZPXZZhSYUJszIrHMdSqu-xg5SueMwcb6ebHJH9QbcE60-RQHvwZBUHN_R_lCzBAsGu3LJM4grTWLGqRF8P3ykpK6R9cBN1jZjVLqMvjdCjiAO-R12us/s1600/2+Swift+School.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4v2ErfU1614idCjA62bY9AZWJZPXZZhSYUJszIrHMdSqu-xg5SueMwcb6ebHJH9QbcE60-RQHvwZBUHN_R_lCzBAsGu3LJM4grTWLGqRF8P3ykpK6R9cBN1jZjVLqMvjdCjiAO-R12us/s640/2+Swift+School.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
To set the scene, we got there in the late afternoon and set up a little picnic dinner with snack and drinks. There were kids playing everywhere, with a soccer scrimmage of 10 year olds, which I admittedly got a little too in to. Its been a while since I've watched live sports...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSzauomsOtysrQtkvlUoX9gev32t_1F7Aj4_WN5z5seXJBL7anPi1zTDbTM-ByTZO7gK9L3CVUP9-knffOw_nRhfjX5T9lfc-LyrXbpmF835XIoy_l5JcEocNFbsky9_ng6t-GaBfLK4/s1600/2.5+Children+Play.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSzauomsOtysrQtkvlUoX9gev32t_1F7Aj4_WN5z5seXJBL7anPi1zTDbTM-ByTZO7gK9L3CVUP9-knffOw_nRhfjX5T9lfc-LyrXbpmF835XIoy_l5JcEocNFbsky9_ng6t-GaBfLK4/s640/2.5+Children+Play.jpg" width="488" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Anyhow, kids were sliding down the hill and having some well-supervised fun. All the while, these tiny birds called Swifts slowly started to arrive and fly around. Everyone now and again, they would collect in large groups and form a spiral.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgM0aoQtfOX_DiUJwN4gTHQjJ0ZoatHGIBL1erVmDbf61SbjT_AXSGN0yaI9RseFvS1gR1HgwpTvcGRzQlCdwB0nnmd-qEZ0IJzgMjPXG7mMk2Ge5HISBncJNZ5InGZjTAwk0X1rXBa-s/s1600/3+Swifts3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgM0aoQtfOX_DiUJwN4gTHQjJ0ZoatHGIBL1erVmDbf61SbjT_AXSGN0yaI9RseFvS1gR1HgwpTvcGRzQlCdwB0nnmd-qEZ0IJzgMjPXG7mMk2Ge5HISBncJNZ5InGZjTAwk0X1rXBa-s/s640/3+Swifts3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Its hard to tell, but these little guys are about 2.5 inches long and probably weight a few ounces. During this time, they migrate and this chimney at this elementary school is where they seek shelter for the night on their way south. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOk856PFccgZfq55e6o0_nAk27LM0juQFiqd_vU7TYx3GALnlqpoNs96IUdk1lma38tYjXfOwrLuTMA4VxwGfLmcjJ8fDSIYTqCXBTY6rYGoxhrjce5hiS-b_m7A8fZna7ukAFkTEQipU/s1600/4+Swifts4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOk856PFccgZfq55e6o0_nAk27LM0juQFiqd_vU7TYx3GALnlqpoNs96IUdk1lma38tYjXfOwrLuTMA4VxwGfLmcjJ8fDSIYTqCXBTY6rYGoxhrjce5hiS-b_m7A8fZna7ukAFkTEQipU/s640/4+Swifts4.jpg" width="444" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By nightfall, there was a nice vortex of birds spiraling into the chimney while an outer circle protected their own. It was one of the most amazing things I've ever seen, and that is saying something since I've got kind of a phobia of swarms. I think this helped.</div>
<br />
The next day was Casey's birthday, so we got our group together and headed to the "beach." It was on an island that sits between two rivers and separates Oregon from Washington. We soaked in some sun, ate some cheese and got a bit wet. The water wasn't the cleanest, so most of us opted to not get too far into the water.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjK8hyMM4eOuwc5zvF8w4i2EPlyAYM9aVBxLmBypoY6g_OgSCYZUfs5ARMHSOsSMdcKt0-x9llvBaFIF3X0DqH_bICwsBrib7UdAWvaW78lTxOXmiOuaShZT-jE0jwePAY_DXzZ-I4Ec/s1600/5+The+Girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjK8hyMM4eOuwc5zvF8w4i2EPlyAYM9aVBxLmBypoY6g_OgSCYZUfs5ARMHSOsSMdcKt0-x9llvBaFIF3X0DqH_bICwsBrib7UdAWvaW78lTxOXmiOuaShZT-jE0jwePAY_DXzZ-I4Ec/s640/5+The+Girls.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is Casey, Liz, and Shelly. Old and new friends, but close nonetheless. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvWOjclAFikVKIGg7FpGv58XODyAAtYMAYDVyiVysjJTCskYGHcJU9tXb9ol4rAp4HhXeJv_378Wjep68zrWp3l_cOBFB2Y7rQZDy6c-BljoznIqJ_ysC_Gy1KGwSP0d6OY4TCk3b_YA0/s1600/6+Casey+Sparkle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvWOjclAFikVKIGg7FpGv58XODyAAtYMAYDVyiVysjJTCskYGHcJU9tXb9ol4rAp4HhXeJv_378Wjep68zrWp3l_cOBFB2Y7rQZDy6c-BljoznIqJ_ysC_Gy1KGwSP0d6OY4TCk3b_YA0/s640/6+Casey+Sparkle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is Casey wearing Shelly's sparkly cape and sparkly glitter. It was a perfect day for some reflective accessories. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9RvYh9RSBgZ4Ph92goa-c1yyvX5pAOg66q_oM7y6opYpG1atbxpUk7TbalG9Haxl2x-rSfQe9KgBvIbfnPIxJdIG5YNaYps_pFwEGRzseKBr7B1ZonGBeoiHjqe1doDSBJzSoFzYodg/s1600/8+Picking+Blackberries2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9RvYh9RSBgZ4Ph92goa-c1yyvX5pAOg66q_oM7y6opYpG1atbxpUk7TbalG9Haxl2x-rSfQe9KgBvIbfnPIxJdIG5YNaYps_pFwEGRzseKBr7B1ZonGBeoiHjqe1doDSBJzSoFzYodg/s640/8+Picking+Blackberries2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After we had our fill of sun, we picked some blackberries to munch on for dessert before heading back into the city. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeUEaYUZfxdSMBiHQg7r5sMCsJSZX6XwzqhcwXVzb3RJVrypkV7j91d3zWrBpx-ROTHW2rlxYUjwgaTxyfl5dPMd5JtfGbPjJET45fMu562J1b4hdOxi_WOFtpBDFPm2UWBK2G4z4YHI/s1600/9+Rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeUEaYUZfxdSMBiHQg7r5sMCsJSZX6XwzqhcwXVzb3RJVrypkV7j91d3zWrBpx-ROTHW2rlxYUjwgaTxyfl5dPMd5JtfGbPjJET45fMu562J1b4hdOxi_WOFtpBDFPm2UWBK2G4z4YHI/s640/9+Rose.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course, we couldn't go to the City of Roses without seeing some beautiful roses. Man, were they pretty!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdhI-vTwaAU1lNdNFU0UK6X_crD6zcZ25MfgxEObfmwuXV-GDkNk8OL6HhovVaFtN-db8pQvCQwZIPxGt9I1KbbLRhHnGQ8cvIxBT29RY0WVpH_SfzErS3hRbsInzB4Tj92vB6Wjer9c/s1600/10+Rose3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdhI-vTwaAU1lNdNFU0UK6X_crD6zcZ25MfgxEObfmwuXV-GDkNk8OL6HhovVaFtN-db8pQvCQwZIPxGt9I1KbbLRhHnGQ8cvIxBT29RY0WVpH_SfzErS3hRbsInzB4Tj92vB6Wjer9c/s640/10+Rose3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If I were a bee, I'd feel my life was complete if I'd have seen this.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A short flight back, and we were back in our city. At first I was a bit disappointed with the quality of this picture, but now I kind of like it. It feels like an old, 35mm print.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYv8wjjBBUAehZK1Z0rdPG6ie12_hUw1aYPZWrqNxI7xaD5DNn3v9hTOSscwxB88BuH4hAtxMbImYFqEDrz7hRySwTvBwoyFA0h0-epwsQofAzLGTMnXrpgFy7QLGXQTGdH61xJ1NFyk0/s1600/11+Fisco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYv8wjjBBUAehZK1Z0rdPG6ie12_hUw1aYPZWrqNxI7xaD5DNn3v9hTOSscwxB88BuH4hAtxMbImYFqEDrz7hRySwTvBwoyFA0h0-epwsQofAzLGTMnXrpgFy7QLGXQTGdH61xJ1NFyk0/s640/11+Fisco.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-612785095062766642012-08-20T11:57:00.001-07:002012-08-20T11:57:06.361-07:00Website for Darwin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqE6jEqp8lZ7OfBEMTyQFmsFyyfYOyg3RZC1rJQmM6u89ESoOrrTBZATnxYH93OGCX8I_z1aaXkEfid3EnZ281XlzWtdq-waGNbZ3WH8V9ZESxTmYe2QCBGzzGpa8pGuhR5lIulLSNgI/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-08-20+at+11.55.48+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqE6jEqp8lZ7OfBEMTyQFmsFyyfYOyg3RZC1rJQmM6u89ESoOrrTBZATnxYH93OGCX8I_z1aaXkEfid3EnZ281XlzWtdq-waGNbZ3WH8V9ZESxTmYe2QCBGzzGpa8pGuhR5lIulLSNgI/s640/Screen+shot+2012-08-20+at+11.55.48+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
A couple posts back I mentioned that I was building a website with my friend for Darwin Cafe. I'm happy to announce that it is live and functioning! It feels good to have it up and I know it will help us out a lot. Here's the link: <a href="http://darwincafesf.com/"> DarwinCafeSF.com</a>. Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-26119799072650336892012-07-23T21:18:00.003-07:002012-07-23T21:20:03.915-07:00Life Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Looking through my pictures, I guess there isn't much to update about life. Things are going steady and well and I've just been enjoying life in the city and the sunny weekends we've been having here. There have a been a few things worth sharing though and here are some pictures to illustrate.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglECnLessaN2npbn1wl1MxREvdJkuVZ9rZPPGoA3z6gczU2ex3mPhLS6Ra7ej900qgDfSe3imXkhzm-VqhSk0iBGyqM7FXpJemB0Qe4eJWfo0WYCffui-ckHCvH2sWCuBz1sziF4tb8BE/s1600/1+Rockys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglECnLessaN2npbn1wl1MxREvdJkuVZ9rZPPGoA3z6gczU2ex3mPhLS6Ra7ej900qgDfSe3imXkhzm-VqhSk0iBGyqM7FXpJemB0Qe4eJWfo0WYCffui-ckHCvH2sWCuBz1sziF4tb8BE/s640/1+Rockys.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
I forgot to post these before, but I took these while flying from Iceland to Seattle. These are the magnificent Rockies on the Canadian side. It's amazing how far the range of mountains goes. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNcNxSpogsakYa-6vUYt3kcpx2wBNtpdL0cbdD46uxqW8WRlEGM4JL6UyFQuopfDlGsHRZHh6kOTUruJIjM3BuemyKgVR_EuettbVKHH51q_Z2wlA7Lg3Slgb5QM-DDm7GTcZcvoBWWo/s1600/2+Sky+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNcNxSpogsakYa-6vUYt3kcpx2wBNtpdL0cbdD46uxqW8WRlEGM4JL6UyFQuopfDlGsHRZHh6kOTUruJIjM3BuemyKgVR_EuettbVKHH51q_Z2wlA7Lg3Slgb5QM-DDm7GTcZcvoBWWo/s640/2+Sky+View.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here's another shot with some river action. I'm so glad I got the window seat on this leg of the trip!<br />
<br />
Mom visited us recently and we took her to Point Reyes and Sonoma while also showing her around San Francisco. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyr9ZQRBANiX2EfKl2k9NYoRvqpZdW5VMyQAojN7T37prMkuil1yGv93kfV4ffqaZQd7JEYoO9YEs3xxbVQ7kY5IfuX6F1xBGG4n4dXyixAgX4Uq_zywKdFFvwHQsBMMKMOPtcLbs4E0/s1600/3+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyr9ZQRBANiX2EfKl2k9NYoRvqpZdW5VMyQAojN7T37prMkuil1yGv93kfV4ffqaZQd7JEYoO9YEs3xxbVQ7kY5IfuX6F1xBGG4n4dXyixAgX4Uq_zywKdFFvwHQsBMMKMOPtcLbs4E0/s640/3+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
When I thought about Point Reyes, I was picturing a nice, hot, sunny day with blue water against red rocks and green cliffs. Instead, we got grey, which is alright for me! I'm actually really happy that we were in these conditions because it seems so northern California to me. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1rnEFWXCE85OaLNcf68hWbBPjiUjQq8b3tXOw9uJDrf5Gbynld2rds2Ou0I9eHfsOFTFPdFLHh-JFuZBW-efJqdjK9nGDT_QpoqydYIIoIHK0RoMidkqLI43OvNoXzUD0plz8dySL5c/s1600/4+rocks+and+waves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1rnEFWXCE85OaLNcf68hWbBPjiUjQq8b3tXOw9uJDrf5Gbynld2rds2Ou0I9eHfsOFTFPdFLHh-JFuZBW-efJqdjK9nGDT_QpoqydYIIoIHK0RoMidkqLI43OvNoXzUD0plz8dySL5c/s640/4+rocks+and+waves.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Plus, I think the grey gives everything a certain feeling.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRHgervGYLKJZJFGbEBO7C4bpchVjXhkgJBxHIPqzFvvSZizi3AXxUTRCxZyJHFgSHhplTG192Sv4iOeCBIXW-RiqujYzCw_FO-X-NGDSRLmpZtiKw2-iDzb73wsvCFjzQiTeagQRYXg/s1600/5+Mom+Shoots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRHgervGYLKJZJFGbEBO7C4bpchVjXhkgJBxHIPqzFvvSZizi3AXxUTRCxZyJHFgSHhplTG192Sv4iOeCBIXW-RiqujYzCw_FO-X-NGDSRLmpZtiKw2-iDzb73wsvCFjzQiTeagQRYXg/s640/5+Mom+Shoots.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's my mom taking her shot. She taught me a lot about my camera on this trip and it was a lot of fun shooting with her. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbIr3xdbq7quoYRw_ciTRUi4jZoTZgCsywUjTsQ_4Qoi182Sn9ZIgriK0iw0O-eTQmxVF9IXbm61-rKtQIQoS7m2egjO0dRFcHieuYuOdzihb5SCZym0MMh7RDB3yOkG6Tx3Iw5m6a4v0/s1600/4.5+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbIr3xdbq7quoYRw_ciTRUi4jZoTZgCsywUjTsQ_4Qoi182Sn9ZIgriK0iw0O-eTQmxVF9IXbm61-rKtQIQoS7m2egjO0dRFcHieuYuOdzihb5SCZym0MMh7RDB3yOkG6Tx3Iw5m6a4v0/s640/4.5+.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
While we were at Point Reyes, we also did a bit of hiking. It provided a whole different atmosphere and photo ops. I just liked this one because the branches seemed to make a spiral. <br />
<br />
Leaving Point Reyes, the rest of these are in San Francisco. It's nice having someone to show around because you get to experience the best of the city, which generally isn't part of my everyday life. We started at Ocean Beach, where seal rock is.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rX51tJQjzRf2xLQfVdcjEBIjjtmRmpQYjTbPygQmFOSzeReh5u3JPZfhlMY9ojJ6xUxsH4Awa2NaCewYBdPguWjKUaAl_nGJeqSMO77G7Rtep5qJkSCS7ZrrlVOy3a-vdje9QoGaB8E/s1600/7+Seal+Rock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rX51tJQjzRf2xLQfVdcjEBIjjtmRmpQYjTbPygQmFOSzeReh5u3JPZfhlMY9ojJ6xUxsH4Awa2NaCewYBdPguWjKUaAl_nGJeqSMO77G7Rtep5qJkSCS7ZrrlVOy3a-vdje9QoGaB8E/s640/7+Seal+Rock.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rX51tJQjzRf2xLQfVdcjEBIjjtmRmpQYjTbPygQmFOSzeReh5u3JPZfhlMY9ojJ6xUxsH4Awa2NaCewYBdPguWjKUaAl_nGJeqSMO77G7Rtep5qJkSCS7ZrrlVOy3a-vdje9QoGaB8E/s1600/7+Seal+Rock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm pretty sure these rocks were called Seal Rocks because seals used to hang out here. But the seals have moved on and now they are just a bunch of cool rocks painted in seagull droppings. Its really meditative to look out at these rocks and watch the birds fly while listening to the waves. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwa2eoUvVWpR-QMdJldz62GW9sq2duLfo1pF5_zDQGBXZWSS31Adv5mZdgTeuZq1qCdsxXI6IzMTt103rjuSSdr1TfDEJJt5wY80-exDUX2OCyUySob8DhELc6CVBWTrLgEISyg9nciB4/s1600/6+Cool+Rock2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwa2eoUvVWpR-QMdJldz62GW9sq2duLfo1pF5_zDQGBXZWSS31Adv5mZdgTeuZq1qCdsxXI6IzMTt103rjuSSdr1TfDEJJt5wY80-exDUX2OCyUySob8DhELc6CVBWTrLgEISyg9nciB4/s640/6+Cool+Rock2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Here's another cool rock that we found on a hike at Land's End. Land's End is the western most point of the continental United States, so its the closest (longitudinally) to Hawaii! I probably took more than 20 pictures of this rock, just because of the size and colors. It would make a good painting.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrH6CSJcE1jpY3J2YYhEP7uY-JqZ4vO69BmljuZZK89E95KaRSTvuw3EbuNfqruX2yHhamZBNXJ5fV8DzfJtb_5O77D7EoIJf3OjqXmYdb-oVuKppbZ2FAPRqdqktm8_Nvr6jiaXHHaYk/s1600/9+seagull.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrH6CSJcE1jpY3J2YYhEP7uY-JqZ4vO69BmljuZZK89E95KaRSTvuw3EbuNfqruX2yHhamZBNXJ5fV8DzfJtb_5O77D7EoIJf3OjqXmYdb-oVuKppbZ2FAPRqdqktm8_Nvr6jiaXHHaYk/s640/9+seagull.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I also probably took more 20 pictures of seagulls in flight. It was addictive. But now I have some really good images of flight to work with. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also went up Coit Tower, which is perched atop Telegraph Hill, giving one a 360 degree view of the city. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmulHzfqeE9IQB28_cP2Z4KNzDJlrlxfDdpP_ltGW2YVGhQhAZXPEXJ9OxnBaVn0mMrDcAQmvXkoUFtj2djIKm_wqCpTcfuUsBK0boAQ1ebInNqF_QjbBbbgRGa5opwF9XMvhGMo1d5S8/s1600/10+Lombard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmulHzfqeE9IQB28_cP2Z4KNzDJlrlxfDdpP_ltGW2YVGhQhAZXPEXJ9OxnBaVn0mMrDcAQmvXkoUFtj2djIKm_wqCpTcfuUsBK0boAQ1ebInNqF_QjbBbbgRGa5opwF9XMvhGMo1d5S8/s640/10+Lombard.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I took this one before we went up, but in the middle right you can see the famous Lombard Street with its insane curves lined with the insanely priced homes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtybqrE52B0ou-GEaRT6M5Kn_F9N7TjsMmHkV-xeTG9uqI-7yKvGgEnJbcm7uDOTtvnu7KTxpsVmhnH6uS3j5ALTHI2TuHU_Vez4Dd5-ok_0pmj20KstGesTGZG19gilsiDre-GScU-kU/s1600/11+SF+Streets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtybqrE52B0ou-GEaRT6M5Kn_F9N7TjsMmHkV-xeTG9uqI-7yKvGgEnJbcm7uDOTtvnu7KTxpsVmhnH6uS3j5ALTHI2TuHU_Vez4Dd5-ok_0pmj20KstGesTGZG19gilsiDre-GScU-kU/s640/11+SF+Streets.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love seeing views of cities like this because I like thinking about myself wandering around in it, being so tiny. It really puts things in perspective. It also makes me feel pretty healthy for biking around all over this place. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNKrtHeC2z0Ta5giQqY5gtbFVlu7sNBMqb6Eu6iWBtU9Q0DpCR6XOReL9iqjh4YUoVHmzxtdCOtj01-OSxubu-paJ4JV9liIUouuS2-M41aQQBh8sWkA3Uzinffu3H8rezVEq-wtz1jI/s1600/12+TransAmerican.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNKrtHeC2z0Ta5giQqY5gtbFVlu7sNBMqb6Eu6iWBtU9Q0DpCR6XOReL9iqjh4YUoVHmzxtdCOtj01-OSxubu-paJ4JV9liIUouuS2-M41aQQBh8sWkA3Uzinffu3H8rezVEq-wtz1jI/s640/12+TransAmerican.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The TransAmerican Building is probably the most iconic piece in our skyline. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No trip to San Francisco would be complete without the Golden Gate Bridge. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGRxE0nYeaKf8DrBIFctlFtS5aPIXYA6ly7_DHVut-6U4WC3neZMEYUo4drnWqdI5C1k5QKX3qhuK_kx1mLkCl8vJeg5fIztkEBcVDvSd4H4yJKxUjhn4qa6I_xq3oP3JYU_r0oEF7p8/s1600/13+GG+BRidge2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGRxE0nYeaKf8DrBIFctlFtS5aPIXYA6ly7_DHVut-6U4WC3neZMEYUo4drnWqdI5C1k5QKX3qhuK_kx1mLkCl8vJeg5fIztkEBcVDvSd4H4yJKxUjhn4qa6I_xq3oP3JYU_r0oEF7p8/s640/13+GG+BRidge2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My mom took this one while we were driving back from Point Reyes. I tweaked it a bit to make it a bit more interesting. The composition feels very design forward. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlXSYSpTOs743CFHKxSOHmFThxlq0WNT4m4SWyWDpYHbGh-kpXsUf9EbJEFqxu3ostUJROs6WtpNXBbSIqLN52MZPNRW0HazEnQKVb6cEu1p1yUg0-tj3SLiJSwAbJv5edLszf-jtP0Q/s1600/14+GG2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlXSYSpTOs743CFHKxSOHmFThxlq0WNT4m4SWyWDpYHbGh-kpXsUf9EbJEFqxu3ostUJROs6WtpNXBbSIqLN52MZPNRW0HazEnQKVb6cEu1p1yUg0-tj3SLiJSwAbJv5edLszf-jtP0Q/s640/14+GG2.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
I feel like everyone has this shot, but I really like the fog covering the top. It is such a common sight that when I see pictures of the bridge on a clear day, it seems almost inauthentic. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPL1gD5QKzTowOsKpRvEOMXMYfqQxHsmy9Gk_gI3xnih4eB9h7JSKEU6txUPbKJ-Tmic2XBydfNPzjI479YJe_FicZr78ihxUXS54d47UDk7VnyEUQImXYL7vIkQpn74ImxTB-Xi21ag/s1600/15+Mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPL1gD5QKzTowOsKpRvEOMXMYfqQxHsmy9Gk_gI3xnih4eB9h7JSKEU6txUPbKJ-Tmic2XBydfNPzjI479YJe_FicZr78ihxUXS54d47UDk7VnyEUQImXYL7vIkQpn74ImxTB-Xi21ag/s640/15+Mom.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
And here's mom with the bridge and her gigantic camera. That thing is a lot of fun!<br />
<br />
Well there you have it, a bunch of pictures from a bunch of places. I've got some fun things planned for the coming months and hopefully I'll be more diligent at sharing.Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-54054712488063745412012-07-18T17:38:00.000-07:002012-07-18T17:51:34.507-07:00Artwork Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm becoming more and more truant with these posts. For a while I just wasn't posting because I didn't really have any work I felt was worth posting. But now that I look at what I've got, I think there's a few that I can share. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lately, I've been working with my designer friend on building a website for the cafe I work at. There are a number of things in the cafe that are representative of our style and aesthetic and I've been doing some detailed line drawings of those for the site. Here are a few:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJhPUaL-rP9-aKlDN99APX5B_KcpPXL7LFXZ84pA7RrfLdWpNrfQtiBoH71Lg4dMPXLQpWpFxUJszjvnOzZp405WnhfLHlXqhuTehz7D7BVsjOV5kvOLpi81koWtcNzl8o2MLVRqxbIRg/s1600/Coffee+PLant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJhPUaL-rP9-aKlDN99APX5B_KcpPXL7LFXZ84pA7RrfLdWpNrfQtiBoH71Lg4dMPXLQpWpFxUJszjvnOzZp405WnhfLHlXqhuTehz7D7BVsjOV5kvOLpi81koWtcNzl8o2MLVRqxbIRg/s640/Coffee+PLant.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Coffee plant.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKSAxHI9A3O-h-MIhOplgaRD91NsPJgmxAHCUqnTNXEZh72xCeMsruOt_51uXiINDgRMfNZ-GPay0qA7oA-g0Ox5VmpROgjeqqsolMChjr_v4cRrsvUXHrionjCOVz016Ye-upQIfMF_U/s1600/Fish1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKSAxHI9A3O-h-MIhOplgaRD91NsPJgmxAHCUqnTNXEZh72xCeMsruOt_51uXiINDgRMfNZ-GPay0qA7oA-g0Ox5VmpROgjeqqsolMChjr_v4cRrsvUXHrionjCOVz016Ye-upQIfMF_U/s640/Fish1.jpg" width="514" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Print of a fish.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGV4qFIfzOZnEh3lysZEmr2rRrjzVBh2Rdcgf-BAaR1cEV7PqY14mOt4uY4BIKj8pH7qNHI3yYIMVkcWSlt-4328zW0Pe_8pO592k8Q70FgswfZHKGx5fGMNCxg8iLFGxa3n9nWuGRarA/s1600/Fish2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGV4qFIfzOZnEh3lysZEmr2rRrjzVBh2Rdcgf-BAaR1cEV7PqY14mOt4uY4BIKj8pH7qNHI3yYIMVkcWSlt-4328zW0Pe_8pO592k8Q70FgswfZHKGx5fGMNCxg8iLFGxa3n9nWuGRarA/s640/Fish2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Another fish.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgep5O7jUW3aKsUC4jR9h0vOIU5cDEr2upckZ0S_79u1BcG9nKTBoNoQq0tEnYjHZGtEBqwVG4Dda_hu6RDN82qDF81fnoEgyr0F_EX4Rlf4SYHUeDWrOSTPZaPgLnegDNaVkbzaUxVtl0/s1600/Sheep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgep5O7jUW3aKsUC4jR9h0vOIU5cDEr2upckZ0S_79u1BcG9nKTBoNoQq0tEnYjHZGtEBqwVG4Dda_hu6RDN82qDF81fnoEgyr0F_EX4Rlf4SYHUeDWrOSTPZaPgLnegDNaVkbzaUxVtl0/s640/Sheep.jpg" width="470" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Big horned sheep (there is a rad sculpture of these guys in the cafe)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I've also made a few paintings, although not as many as I'd like. Mostly, I've just been experimenting and enjoying the act of painting without too much concern for content. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXi_woo8Gmg_Vhn8FbHxhhUfG7m5IVTNddEiCMfoJbk6uLhunNXjJWv6GXpO99NxGeEMRbfGdvsM7-nDJ0ByhpvkxPnkdsIEsBcGnR9ueJbyP0rmYwPp8D8qCeY8S9WiIIrLFMscQIfVc/s1600/Precipitated+Recollection.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXi_woo8Gmg_Vhn8FbHxhhUfG7m5IVTNddEiCMfoJbk6uLhunNXjJWv6GXpO99NxGeEMRbfGdvsM7-nDJ0ByhpvkxPnkdsIEsBcGnR9ueJbyP0rmYwPp8D8qCeY8S9WiIIrLFMscQIfVc/s640/Precipitated+Recollection.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
This first one doesn't really apply to what I just said. I made it as an entry for a group show. I didn't get in, but I'm really happy with how this came out. The theme of the show was on memories and our relationship with them. I was fascinated with how our brain recalls a memory. The brain doesn't work like a filing cabinet, putting specific memories in certain locations, but rather has to construct all the elements of a memory when we remember. This painting represents all the different pieces of a memory coming together. The figure is falling into the memory and watching it form at the same time. I think everyone has experienced falling and feeling like it happened in slow motion. That was kind of the idea here: because the figure is watching everything in slow motion and she gets to see the rapidly forming memory. Ultimately, when she touches down, its that "A-ha" moment when you instantly remember something.<br />
<br />
These last two were just for fun. I found some awesome images of animals in kind of a somber, almost depressed state. I have no idea why I'm attracted to that kind of imagery, but I find it interesting and love to paint it, probably just because I like to paint in grey. Anyhow, here are few new ones:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHK80wA5okc_-Im_Jm16V1SsxVyCf3HN3lJKOkBy-XgT2i12OI6CS0-RfPVCZ_EzuEinaGDbarRK-u1GGs-kgN695XnT0awOf1Qz0eHpeT1MQFPHVp9hyphenhyphenVHV3DwhHgDIp0jlsRYqgHlA/s1600/Rhino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHK80wA5okc_-Im_Jm16V1SsxVyCf3HN3lJKOkBy-XgT2i12OI6CS0-RfPVCZ_EzuEinaGDbarRK-u1GGs-kgN695XnT0awOf1Qz0eHpeT1MQFPHVp9hyphenhyphenVHV3DwhHgDIp0jlsRYqgHlA/s640/Rhino.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvq2Iy1AnG_s6ElZCMM7NA2lrTDOr5kTS0afP6gGJOTp_GjL3UBmEDhf_6Igp6N_VormqaKR0fIDWOwD91M2gZZBcmTnduqOxrgS6YocWeq315B-00NdkaD6ra0qodwzoTivWBiuPwhj4/s1600/Sheep+Wave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvq2Iy1AnG_s6ElZCMM7NA2lrTDOr5kTS0afP6gGJOTp_GjL3UBmEDhf_6Igp6N_VormqaKR0fIDWOwD91M2gZZBcmTnduqOxrgS6YocWeq315B-00NdkaD6ra0qodwzoTivWBiuPwhj4/s640/Sheep+Wave.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I have hopes to post again shortly with a "Life Update" to fill everyone in on what's been going on. Not much to report, but some cool pictures to show. Check back soon!Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-25519200616422547032012-05-28T21:31:00.002-07:002012-05-29T07:49:16.941-07:00Scandinavia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We just got back from our time in Copenhagen and I am so jet lagged. This is probably the worst I've had it, but I'm forcing myself to stay up and write this so that I can get somewhat back on time before I have to go back to work. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To sum things up, I love Copenhagen and would love to live there...at least during the summer months. Before we headed to Copenhagen though, we stopped in Stockholm for a night.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0VdRTRCDUkKGbhFuznie8hl0akO2kWwbtDDao34hyphenhyphen8MM6TicrsUdzKs5CfwUNJvBLgssvbYhuv0yJn5US1dW8pZm2g-qw3Fnlg9gKQfIcH59KJGrFIM8U1jc5fHbpfiUGhFPPmBCkgbM/s1600/0+Magrite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0VdRTRCDUkKGbhFuznie8hl0akO2kWwbtDDao34hyphenhyphen8MM6TicrsUdzKs5CfwUNJvBLgssvbYhuv0yJn5US1dW8pZm2g-qw3Fnlg9gKQfIcH59KJGrFIM8U1jc5fHbpfiUGhFPPmBCkgbM/s640/0+Magrite.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This was taken in a square near a restaurant we ate at that had traditional Swedish food. I had meatballs and Casey had herring prepared in three ways. Everything was delicious and a nice, yet slight, change from the food we had been eating in Ireland. I like this photo because it reminds me of René Magritte's painting "The Empire of Light."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QJ72OcWHk4nboSZVpF70mPgCmY-wqig1reMmggGWqBV6nEbCkIRd824J6o3Q8I1YoO0S7OS2jnndQl7BtNjxpKpzF7_v9a_vY9UmbRvVpB4wmxJ8lkL5lfZNHvmtFYX56L645jJg9DQ/s1600/01+Swedish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QJ72OcWHk4nboSZVpF70mPgCmY-wqig1reMmggGWqBV6nEbCkIRd824J6o3Q8I1YoO0S7OS2jnndQl7BtNjxpKpzF7_v9a_vY9UmbRvVpB4wmxJ8lkL5lfZNHvmtFYX56L645jJg9DQ/s640/01+Swedish.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Here's another picture from Stockholm. I'm not sure what it was, but I thought it looked cool.<br />
<br />
Now on to Copenhagen. Getting to and from the airport was super easy and in no time, we were walking down this street.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_GQWmU_I_BTMfsSq3U3PbedYYsSyRHcbxBtRwHUx_SDd_LPsN_Imk3AY4QsLsEBl5B6zINUUg8FL1O3GsXzvIBo9SwFr27W6WWCAA7iyHZ_rVW6Qsc4joE70PwPkIrUHgJBsecsv7xc/s1600/2+jaeggesbrograde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_GQWmU_I_BTMfsSq3U3PbedYYsSyRHcbxBtRwHUx_SDd_LPsN_Imk3AY4QsLsEBl5B6zINUUg8FL1O3GsXzvIBo9SwFr27W6WWCAA7iyHZ_rVW6Qsc4joE70PwPkIrUHgJBsecsv7xc/s640/2+jaeggesbrograde.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Located in the Nørrebro neighborhood, Jægersborggade is probably the coolest street in Copenhagen...maybe in the world. It is full of great restaurantes, a fine bakery, a perfect coffee shop and populated with the cool, stylish young Danes. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGHT4OHT8XXrSnaPVqVgiWTGVsD79ktby4dT5-uBj5Mhu5rvXhY8l-CqgZYbCdzysqJ3Q-1HboNNiP7BAc33UHaOfjY74tIOg9bFtkeuaAxRI8hTpqE9hly3SvIl-0-4GFa3qXu5NXSjw/s1600/3+Cemetary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGHT4OHT8XXrSnaPVqVgiWTGVsD79ktby4dT5-uBj5Mhu5rvXhY8l-CqgZYbCdzysqJ3Q-1HboNNiP7BAc33UHaOfjY74tIOg9bFtkeuaAxRI8hTpqE9hly3SvIl-0-4GFa3qXu5NXSjw/s640/3+Cemetary.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Across the street is a big cemetery where Hans Christian Andersen is buried. The layout is so unique, with many small areas separated by hedges and filled with trees and bushes. Everything is very spread out with lots of space. For this reason, the locals use it as a park and layout in the sun next to the graves. We spend part of our first day doing just that and enjoying the unexpectedly amazing weather.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Half of our time in Copenhagen was spent with Casey's extended family that live in Denmark. The relation travels up to her great grandfather and it was so nice to meet them. There were all so friendly and generous of their time and it was a real treat to have them show us around. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fFVXI2wpkuBDteRqIwM6iQysu36aGkSBUsIfX7QKykFZg_SdTyolBPvQXa4PBw0IEr94YWGZiSWLcpE7rlWz2ZHjKHY3gcNxOVc3RJ5Y0tIj8LKklRMc5L_DgwUnxUS7PpdRaqD_HRw/s1600/4+Nielsens+and+Ryan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fFVXI2wpkuBDteRqIwM6iQysu36aGkSBUsIfX7QKykFZg_SdTyolBPvQXa4PBw0IEr94YWGZiSWLcpE7rlWz2ZHjKHY3gcNxOVc3RJ5Y0tIj8LKklRMc5L_DgwUnxUS7PpdRaqD_HRw/s640/4+Nielsens+and+Ryan.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here's a family photo, with Ryan on the right. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikJdMSkztByHV-WVMwWPZvknadtqoU0ydubTjOhBE8XjXZK-hN7qK5K_ZtINO5JXD0iV5W7Nu4XFL_7Tkib1hbCH7z-_AAwhH3-61wFIedgVFALt7PS6Tu3IUyrbynGVhk6DneSyhP1a0/s1600/5+Boat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikJdMSkztByHV-WVMwWPZvknadtqoU0ydubTjOhBE8XjXZK-hN7qK5K_ZtINO5JXD0iV5W7Nu4XFL_7Tkib1hbCH7z-_AAwhH3-61wFIedgVFALt7PS6Tu3IUyrbynGVhk6DneSyhP1a0/s640/5+Boat.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
We had lunch with them and then we all took a canal tour. The tour started in Nyhavn (New Harbor), which was named that some time ago and is not actually new anymore. But back in the day, it was filled with sailors and bars and was the only place in the 50s where someone could get a pair of jeans, or cowboy pants as Ulla, Casey's great aunty, called them. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmmGRKvcgfEsKVfXYWOpDCXN3PFRy1u3mp_d3C8xOrl2f6LyCcWHcjm3YNzG-cRTZoM7sSTL5-l9_PodoPsa0l5RtEB65QgjWBX4UtLLFmhvQRCtrWw5iLXQZdFWvr-MeWKlACmFRSHQ/s1600/6+Crown+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmmGRKvcgfEsKVfXYWOpDCXN3PFRy1u3mp_d3C8xOrl2f6LyCcWHcjm3YNzG-cRTZoM7sSTL5-l9_PodoPsa0l5RtEB65QgjWBX4UtLLFmhvQRCtrWw5iLXQZdFWvr-MeWKlACmFRSHQ/s640/6+Crown+House.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
The one thing I noticed on our canal tour was all the crowns. It seems like they love putting them on everything. Here's exhibit A.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQKOcU4QmS6K8rBTv9A9CXAurIvPKbf0rHSX2ctIdNAUiBUC7XNtRqqFmTod4Vxf-KpA89Sfhkqlow95kEu7KQ9jCMPQUMOQ7Powf7biZFFr33ORX-4NESTi6kUDdQTC5-iqE1j2UsF0/s1600/7+Crown+Tower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQKOcU4QmS6K8rBTv9A9CXAurIvPKbf0rHSX2ctIdNAUiBUC7XNtRqqFmTod4Vxf-KpA89Sfhkqlow95kEu7KQ9jCMPQUMOQ7Powf7biZFFr33ORX-4NESTi6kUDdQTC5-iqE1j2UsF0/s640/7+Crown+Tower.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Exhibit B.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_o8xuGmCOref6q4R8vTv_nKx5SNZScCqrRZ1a4dB2BkscP2XlmsI0FP7GMhqxhLkTeMDHWQNeSzXit50F9TAUEtNGpwkQSlRMZWWWSXfz7wlCTJk8WyKYgyM3r1iCaVYkaXrRIx8VIk8/s1600/8+Crown+Sculpture+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_o8xuGmCOref6q4R8vTv_nKx5SNZScCqrRZ1a4dB2BkscP2XlmsI0FP7GMhqxhLkTeMDHWQNeSzXit50F9TAUEtNGpwkQSlRMZWWWSXfz7wlCTJk8WyKYgyM3r1iCaVYkaXrRIx8VIk8/s640/8+Crown+Sculpture+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Exhbit C.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
We did a bit of exploring on our own too. Here are just a few photos of some of the interesting things we saw.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDbl32tblnJ0_dnQ5eKw5sxrOIRmhVZZnC0usVL9Hdzg1xEm8ofU50B7Gxi6PzasiCFTJowyAs9VnC6JC3m1AdgUJPKjoc6nw4WcCC0wJqJrupxm9Qtdgr-MDWzxImRB7LnQCc84-Ske0/s1600/9+Fairey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDbl32tblnJ0_dnQ5eKw5sxrOIRmhVZZnC0usVL9Hdzg1xEm8ofU50B7Gxi6PzasiCFTJowyAs9VnC6JC3m1AdgUJPKjoc6nw4WcCC0wJqJrupxm9Qtdgr-MDWzxImRB7LnQCc84-Ske0/s640/9+Fairey.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is a massive piece done by the artist Shepard Fairey. I have mixed feelings about him since he has become extremely famous as a street artist and is definitely making a lot of money off of it, which is the complete opposite of what his artwork is about. Let's just call him a sellout and leave it at that. But this huge piece was pretty impressive, so I'll give him that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mjs4MsZulyog29g1_Tgod1JnIH9-DuAu4qnqmY2xNClkdab-CQ9gp8wPYTNKMdJVh_VbFN5qy-oLgVMJIKjpKEsvegBwDInAxt4jOuxuIL3NG9mzx2u-M05-EF9LpNkh0uWPEEHQ5n8/s1600/11+Bully.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mjs4MsZulyog29g1_Tgod1JnIH9-DuAu4qnqmY2xNClkdab-CQ9gp8wPYTNKMdJVh_VbFN5qy-oLgVMJIKjpKEsvegBwDInAxt4jOuxuIL3NG9mzx2u-M05-EF9LpNkh0uWPEEHQ5n8/s640/11+Bully.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
This sculpture/fountain was pretty cool. Its of a bull crushing a water dragon. I'm not sure what the symbolism is, but I'm sure it has something to do with their past and the influence of the Vikings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAHa1a2KTO5Wp9_OxfsNgtJi30pAxeWQGp62k3ATqTaEeJqLCoXHpU-BE5SM2FddVmMuPUTWwwEaBf8KjsDHSToIG9xeoVdpn0yxgmD5ewB6c80mJOpGjNmXxrbiYmDqXkS8c9gUEmGg/s1600/13+Terrace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAHa1a2KTO5Wp9_OxfsNgtJi30pAxeWQGp62k3ATqTaEeJqLCoXHpU-BE5SM2FddVmMuPUTWwwEaBf8KjsDHSToIG9xeoVdpn0yxgmD5ewB6c80mJOpGjNmXxrbiYmDqXkS8c9gUEmGg/s640/13+Terrace.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is a typical sight in Copenhagen. There are many massive brick apartment buildings with many units in them and small little balconies sticking out. I took it more for the patterns, but I think the uniformity of the apartments says something to the socialist economy of Denmark.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We spent our last day with Casey's family in Roskilde, an ancient town about half an hours drive from Copenhagen. The main attraction was the cathedral. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rh_Y3bY25clbxHYXu7fZwbqR6U2cFovVie_4NU0rEbffa3uVaVqYmkTPwxSFhJnSQI5KY0IC0hHmwZ5sEwyB83Brr70A8Q7jYOZnKRdP_-hz1Z9jbEtN36PeSoAIjZlOAtV6RCbB-mo/s1600/13.1Roskilde2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rh_Y3bY25clbxHYXu7fZwbqR6U2cFovVie_4NU0rEbffa3uVaVqYmkTPwxSFhJnSQI5KY0IC0hHmwZ5sEwyB83Brr70A8Q7jYOZnKRdP_-hz1Z9jbEtN36PeSoAIjZlOAtV6RCbB-mo/s640/13.1Roskilde2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
This cathedral was built during the 12th and 13th centuries and was the first gothic cathedral to be built with brick. Not only is it incredibly old, it also houses the remains of most of the Danish monarch, including Christian I, who ruled Denmark, Norway and Sweden. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg850yU8aGc6zdf355szaToeeNkDTlGfsB7LHQjXG2zd0pkYWOMdc-usgY9kFS_sjqmXu0y47JXId8cwfBUCtSDp_dhtwdqa6YlWlRXZq991pTL-LQpgk7E-Y_Z1BgD4Crfa5q5OidlU7U/s1600/13.2+Tomb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg850yU8aGc6zdf355szaToeeNkDTlGfsB7LHQjXG2zd0pkYWOMdc-usgY9kFS_sjqmXu0y47JXId8cwfBUCtSDp_dhtwdqa6YlWlRXZq991pTL-LQpgk7E-Y_Z1BgD4Crfa5q5OidlU7U/s640/13.2+Tomb.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Not sure whose tomb this is, but it was one of the past kings. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciy_erFy68m7j0L5mOCIU2vAzpUoCcRDXm6zzq1_0G5jSQfz3VHW8jdP_c9_u6OGNiyZx8unLMk4lt4OAco01jD4tHO1qRlx8rrqUmB8xJhAljtBkNVKElWrJWFA7bQ8GQEGbReIsWsQ/s1600/13.3+Church+Doors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciy_erFy68m7j0L5mOCIU2vAzpUoCcRDXm6zzq1_0G5jSQfz3VHW8jdP_c9_u6OGNiyZx8unLMk4lt4OAco01jD4tHO1qRlx8rrqUmB8xJhAljtBkNVKElWrJWFA7bQ8GQEGbReIsWsQ/s640/13.3+Church+Doors.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
I found this door completely intriguing. The imagery and style are unlike anything I've ever seen. It's somewhat primitive, dark, and almost violent and so interesting to be on this cathedral. It almost makes me think it was carved in the 1200s when the main part of the cathedral was completed. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxVHzJrRA7-1BImW474rCDLcLNf8Dnv8ukGn9xYdnWZY0gj7rvHjDlxoyANlwzGjAiPz-g-5cZzzFSpPY2GtB2ON9UwtPQhn67FB46MHEqzHNOqYbATwyDV0OdeS2XpplGVaTRK5uBykY/s1600/13.5+Baby+Scull.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxVHzJrRA7-1BImW474rCDLcLNf8Dnv8ukGn9xYdnWZY0gj7rvHjDlxoyANlwzGjAiPz-g-5cZzzFSpPY2GtB2ON9UwtPQhn67FB46MHEqzHNOqYbATwyDV0OdeS2XpplGVaTRK5uBykY/s640/13.5+Baby+Scull.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Another erie part of the cathedral was this sculpture. This part, we learned, was added on more during the renaissance, which explains the more decorated façade. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dbD-hmxqI8J2xHvnAqmFjLjHNVwptoU30Lu08vkfELEUwExTNJbAyhbPn6PLohLrP0zm7GsWWvLP5MXlOOOqoQUYdgY0Wb2ZMuSn5Q9MM3rcHv2Hb7bhMLBygcTDjWfw_nEmPNbWCgE/s1600/13.7Tiny+City.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dbD-hmxqI8J2xHvnAqmFjLjHNVwptoU30Lu08vkfELEUwExTNJbAyhbPn6PLohLrP0zm7GsWWvLP5MXlOOOqoQUYdgY0Wb2ZMuSn5Q9MM3rcHv2Hb7bhMLBygcTDjWfw_nEmPNbWCgE/s640/13.7Tiny+City.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
At the harbor, there is a miniature model of what the city looked like in 1400. This photo isn't really telling, but I thought it was a cool vantage point. The layout shows a lot more farms with the homes spread out and trees everywhere.<br />
<br />
Also at the harbor are Viking ships. There is a Viking museum where they have an outdoor area that shows ships being built. They use traditional techniques to build the ships, so everything is hand cut, carved and shaped. Pretty impressive. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgHddQMdqUTHa_iKiO0fK-e43I0Hbh1iBbCybkDxEQ5b9ftA6FAHKDnU7x8HKCm0MWu_fNQw_1W_XSWm-IlFKAE8XwRQsfqOmJeY3Kl8QGOH_l49ZQaKqewn5N-Sz-CH6vDzQU_dUdDI/s1600/13.5+Viking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgHddQMdqUTHa_iKiO0fK-e43I0Hbh1iBbCybkDxEQ5b9ftA6FAHKDnU7x8HKCm0MWu_fNQw_1W_XSWm-IlFKAE8XwRQsfqOmJeY3Kl8QGOH_l49ZQaKqewn5N-Sz-CH6vDzQU_dUdDI/s640/13.5+Viking.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Here is one that isn't finished and on display. When we looked out into the water, we saw at least two ships out in the bay.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yC9tw6FT5NGgHHfKfAN86rVn9GGirdRLllVBwXd0mtZRXPc2qYNwaclGqU1wBuKDQA_u5Bal46M6Cgqyzm5XbO4giulwZgpZD1lnMIUnIA1vmSJanBFEbSb8iEYhJvnyw2SA6gjNigI/s1600/13.6+Wood+Work.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yC9tw6FT5NGgHHfKfAN86rVn9GGirdRLllVBwXd0mtZRXPc2qYNwaclGqU1wBuKDQA_u5Bal46M6Cgqyzm5XbO4giulwZgpZD1lnMIUnIA1vmSJanBFEbSb8iEYhJvnyw2SA6gjNigI/s640/13.6+Wood+Work.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Here is a woman putting some decorative touches.<br />
<br />
One thing we were looking forward to on this trip was seeing a band we all really like in Malmö, Sweden. It just across the bay from Copenhagen and only took about 30 minutes on train. Unfortunately, I didn't get any good pictures of the show, but we had a blast and it was so fun seeing a band in another country. It was also really cool to hop over to anther country for the evening. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0j3cLmB4rxOhpqhWRpqMkL70DfryBxswTWhnYCgMkTVk9pXMldQ1tS_W8h0qqE_0KDAEVvANRRtsyv0ZdY4g4NeMbWpqUSHBiIwOw6DRLINrcvz2LSdf_66_31uhabmXL-HuqGIiLn68/s1600/14+Station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0j3cLmB4rxOhpqhWRpqMkL70DfryBxswTWhnYCgMkTVk9pXMldQ1tS_W8h0qqE_0KDAEVvANRRtsyv0ZdY4g4NeMbWpqUSHBiIwOw6DRLINrcvz2LSdf_66_31uhabmXL-HuqGIiLn68/s640/14+Station.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Here is a picture of the train station. I was attracted to the colors and lines. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlM_7-q8W0zs4GDdy23Z1-VBUBNmrcjtLSeK7ogOQj9V5plP1Vy17KU1ye9XNLNpfVgNyYEgg3FZzQ6DmivO6BEPwhEJ8aZa-qaPxqzbdMdQqMxH3Ad3I0qkDgJQ6tari1GbVugSuKZ9Y/s1600/15+Ryan+Casey+Dance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlM_7-q8W0zs4GDdy23Z1-VBUBNmrcjtLSeK7ogOQj9V5plP1Vy17KU1ye9XNLNpfVgNyYEgg3FZzQ6DmivO6BEPwhEJ8aZa-qaPxqzbdMdQqMxH3Ad3I0qkDgJQ6tari1GbVugSuKZ9Y/s640/15+Ryan+Casey+Dance.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And finally, here is Casey and Ryan dancing on the platform after the show. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was an amazing trip and it felt so much longer than just 10 days. Every aspect of this trip was so much fun and it was nice to travel again, even though I could have easily spent another a week there. Now its time to pass out!</div>
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-80824483462419797112012-05-24T02:23:00.000-07:002012-05-24T02:23:02.874-07:00Ireland and the Goods<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We're just past the half way point in our trip, so its time for a mini update. Here's a little of what we did with our time in Ireland.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jm6gHnkBoYWwp03DdZQxs1zPQ8GPtfjN9bnzD0LXxXxLYXutpesxV9FbTbbPnNrlKda2Yn4ry0TQ2NYYbCO8-k4ZCnnDMZ7xemEGOIScYnl6KOd8dW7JyIB_IV6J5r_uTeJuilk0ExA/s1600/Friends+in+Dublin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jm6gHnkBoYWwp03DdZQxs1zPQ8GPtfjN9bnzD0LXxXxLYXutpesxV9FbTbbPnNrlKda2Yn4ry0TQ2NYYbCO8-k4ZCnnDMZ7xemEGOIScYnl6KOd8dW7JyIB_IV6J5r_uTeJuilk0ExA/s640/Friends+in+Dublin.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Like any good tourist visiting a place, we opted to walked around instead of the generic "Hop On Hop Off" method of seeing a place. When thinking about Dublin before we arrived, I had a hard time recalling the specifics of the city. But when I got there and started walking around, it all came back and I was surprised at how easily I could find my way. For reference, above from left to right is Casey, Thomas and Ryan.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLh0mkYK6Jrj6Rj7ZRH98WHxnv_p-zOdgfagTfXw-K_2iAi5Xtr-uRwZeqHzKyMrP1z96jVuGOVsdbUGWyvPWE4M_EQPEYXIKIvTJJqgBxGnqJskiYj_uh0hgtCbW3J5IYsH_HYWatM5w/s1600/Conor+Harrington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLh0mkYK6Jrj6Rj7ZRH98WHxnv_p-zOdgfagTfXw-K_2iAi5Xtr-uRwZeqHzKyMrP1z96jVuGOVsdbUGWyvPWE4M_EQPEYXIKIvTJJqgBxGnqJskiYj_uh0hgtCbW3J5IYsH_HYWatM5w/s640/Conor+Harrington.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
One of my main goals for Dublin was to find a few pieces of Conor Harrington. He is probably my favorite contemporary artist and is from Cork, Ireland, but currently living in London. He's returned to Ireland to do a few murals in Dublin and in a couple other cities. It's amazing to think that last time I was here, I desperately tried to track down one of his pieces, and now I easily found two. The one above is called Deadmeat and the one below is Black Herds in the Rain.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYLWVqqWmsVvG6-SlWhJolxAdStWXtNUr8-IHHGqVt__PMvEIev9wpdCgdGusZxfWBFPV55O3dPZ3eSI42HCKw5kLGFzu-PwUtsJjNmUbGIvf05fMJ7Nb609-TZ_5d039D5AnhykB-QM/s1600/Conor2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYLWVqqWmsVvG6-SlWhJolxAdStWXtNUr8-IHHGqVt__PMvEIev9wpdCgdGusZxfWBFPV55O3dPZ3eSI42HCKw5kLGFzu-PwUtsJjNmUbGIvf05fMJ7Nb609-TZ_5d039D5AnhykB-QM/s640/Conor2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW9j5Ob6AhUthq46dp6F2PkPFJ7KMf9yFkMf07_V2o04nwC2OG0EN3GvhIrauKusNFJrgVGUesPnWdeUVVoX0jhncltqAhHWjEH7daerLr5v6ORXH0gNnrAMYJ0PiSlobQf7iYZ7fa2_g/s1600/Grimes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW9j5Ob6AhUthq46dp6F2PkPFJ7KMf9yFkMf07_V2o04nwC2OG0EN3GvhIrauKusNFJrgVGUesPnWdeUVVoX0jhncltqAhHWjEH7daerLr5v6ORXH0gNnrAMYJ0PiSlobQf7iYZ7fa2_g/s640/Grimes.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Walking around a bit more, we came across this bright little newsstand. The main draw, besides the bright blue, was the poster on the window. It's advertising a band called Grimes, who we are actually going to see tonight in Malmö, Sweden! I also just thought that the building looked cool with its colors. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZeyQG58Y-RZFGUvW7tadK6492Q9n0RpQT5MeFJUvvGfLcBccunCOOMwunwoo-anWNZDZHjFeR_LvkX8xTYnF_QI6hlurQTgCc2YM_KXjV6K3N1YBwYAwbIK9JyuG8oYMJkf6bIc_KLw/s1600/Guiness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZeyQG58Y-RZFGUvW7tadK6492Q9n0RpQT5MeFJUvvGfLcBccunCOOMwunwoo-anWNZDZHjFeR_LvkX8xTYnF_QI6hlurQTgCc2YM_KXjV6K3N1YBwYAwbIK9JyuG8oYMJkf6bIc_KLw/s640/Guiness.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
After a long day of walking and popping into shops and restaurants, wandering through parks and down interesting streets, and constantly speaking in an Irish accent, we found a little pub where we enjoyed a Guinness. <br />
<br />
This was probably the most interesting drinking establishment I've ever been to. When we walked in it was quite like the movies where everyone looks at you and watches as you walk though the pub as you realize that everyone here must be a regular. It was the most brightly lit and quiet bar I've ever been to, with the crowd being old men, family units including their children, and a few lone guys at the bar. It was so quiet that even with our whispers, we were probably the loudest ones in the joint. <br />
<br />
On Sunday, May 20th, 2012, our friends Emily and Daniel got hitched!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxAP2KCOCcSZKVLSeeiFzt_VO4NSHEFJMfOXtpMjmFjADiPvhxuaV4yVrHm_8N0lxYIdDGK-shZGGpzNii2hwv-RJXQqZHh7PNmntJbMfvwW4k_ycbuwmKkLFXqx3y2ZQUR-hgw9VnKo/s1600/At+the+Alter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxAP2KCOCcSZKVLSeeiFzt_VO4NSHEFJMfOXtpMjmFjADiPvhxuaV4yVrHm_8N0lxYIdDGK-shZGGpzNii2hwv-RJXQqZHh7PNmntJbMfvwW4k_ycbuwmKkLFXqx3y2ZQUR-hgw9VnKo/s640/At+the+Alter.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I wasn't sure if it was cool to share too many pictures, but here's the lovely couple at the alter listening to the end of The Mamas and the Papas as she just reached him at the end of the asile. It was such a great ceremony, with lots of cheering and laughter, the best way I can think of to enter a marriage. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRjFh1dFi25cLm-BiTUldAvuOHlLXjZgx4TF14VdGwWl2VJWpevIjfnG_9TMUOH0EZKK34Qw-MCoghf-hP95Hn9aZAtrtdzjhNAKHf-DgePR6sF6G1tGVzw-2Vc2yiDsrUX43BvzNHngg/s1600/Friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRjFh1dFi25cLm-BiTUldAvuOHlLXjZgx4TF14VdGwWl2VJWpevIjfnG_9TMUOH0EZKK34Qw-MCoghf-hP95Hn9aZAtrtdzjhNAKHf-DgePR6sF6G1tGVzw-2Vc2yiDsrUX43BvzNHngg/s640/Friends.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here are those three again just outside the church after the ceremony. Casey looking beautiful with her bridesmaid bouquet, Ryan looking dashing with his bridesman boutonnière, and Thomas looking fashionable as always. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1UmBjmlly3oNArKUY64hHL7a6IOdv38P9wLtY7ghNH0ftuu97ZtNfrvm7VkuhVTbqCidJHkSaxs0usWR4mFn7MoPr4rXfoxrYE0cFwVdVWNv9-UkJiUdiidKVwBW1snh1e9GCUxsPqk/s1600/Dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1UmBjmlly3oNArKUY64hHL7a6IOdv38P9wLtY7ghNH0ftuu97ZtNfrvm7VkuhVTbqCidJHkSaxs0usWR4mFn7MoPr4rXfoxrYE0cFwVdVWNv9-UkJiUdiidKVwBW1snh1e9GCUxsPqk/s640/Dinner.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Dinner and the reception were amazing. Dinner was served in a huge stone wine cellar in the downstairs of an old Dublin establishment. One of the perks of being a bridesmaid's date is getting to sit at the couple's table. That was so nice to just cheers them at ease and be surrounded by close friends. The food was delicious and the wine was superb. <br />
<br />
After dinner and speeches that ranged from emotional to hilarious, we headed upstairs for some dancing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja1FL1GkaOi7Ep5SXprSkQXkMD8tCKNMeggopzC69GpJWtq5OtnfwLVLWDWaQ3NAB3kYFMLHdg53CrGug1SxfZimz_duozApPRAZN-TjeLVVUWoYGTlFb-wYWK9MdCHRFkX7WCSkREHMk/s1600/dancing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja1FL1GkaOi7Ep5SXprSkQXkMD8tCKNMeggopzC69GpJWtq5OtnfwLVLWDWaQ3NAB3kYFMLHdg53CrGug1SxfZimz_duozApPRAZN-TjeLVVUWoYGTlFb-wYWK9MdCHRFkX7WCSkREHMk/s640/dancing.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
They had an Irish band playing who were amazing. They played traditional Irish music, where everyone kicked up their legs and did the river dance and also more contemporary songs, where everyone kicked up their legs and did the river dance. At one point, they did a long compilation of The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, Billy Jean, Smooth Criminal, Sweet Home Alabama and probably six more other recognizable songs. They were incredible. We danced the night away and had the best time. At midnight, we sent the couple off with sparklers as they ran to their car, only to proceed to more dancing, linking arms to create a huge circle and taking turns dancing in the middle. It was good times!<br />
<br />
Now, we are in our apartment having breakfast in Copenhagen. From our first day here, I have concluded that this is the most amazing city and I want to move here. More updates to come!Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-696794687492166139.post-10184301060608654552012-04-23T11:58:00.000-07:002012-04-23T11:58:43.026-07:00Shows and Art<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It seems like EVERYONE has toured though San Francisco this month and I've been lucky enough to see four of my favorite bands this month. With the dark lighting and crowded floors, I only got a few good pictures of the two of the shows I saw. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmfG9Wz70-yTnafNzKKAOLR5hcLHgfzScrn1rTjQYVEVjX-vkNE0rwxsBarwsFHZuruJRmG7QVfz2-7gUFBJ7GF4855sViBu9ES-wnXQfGxQBq7d7hT1WWLwpf5CZQO88do6ZLJPMaDw/s1600/First+Aid+Kit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmfG9Wz70-yTnafNzKKAOLR5hcLHgfzScrn1rTjQYVEVjX-vkNE0rwxsBarwsFHZuruJRmG7QVfz2-7gUFBJ7GF4855sViBu9ES-wnXQfGxQBq7d7hT1WWLwpf5CZQO88do6ZLJPMaDw/s640/First+Aid+Kit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First Aid Kit. This sister duo from Sweden have powerful vocals that harmonize perfectly. They had a really interesting stage presence too, mixing some head banging into their folk rock music.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKPar9tEUovfPjTGiDv3c6VcNGnPqe3Vrqt6clo7A0T5e1FJuzATboin-G-NlnT_ezrN9rV-VtNHSqKcSQ3uaOfghE71ZW8XvahO1hwdb7HPHY19hvgs5-WceQVSYumnYULYA7ogIkElE/s1600/Rodrigo+y+Gabriella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKPar9tEUovfPjTGiDv3c6VcNGnPqe3Vrqt6clo7A0T5e1FJuzATboin-G-NlnT_ezrN9rV-VtNHSqKcSQ3uaOfghE71ZW8XvahO1hwdb7HPHY19hvgs5-WceQVSYumnYULYA7ogIkElE/s640/Rodrigo+y+Gabriella.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Rodrigo y Gabriella. This Spanish duo plays the guitar better than anyone. It's amazing how big of a sound two guitars can create. </div>
<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbIuEFGhWnPu3UBY_HerlhzrLsZxbuuofR0e1a0eNQa1XoOOUtrJP60_3SBX0FjKLNKYmw1RUbj2xZVIxGtBYM8ynDUI94DfcLZbJ9esdeAyKEGOT9kxGgw1dQG6RcB3yAepOsBLpxEM/s1600/Rodrigo+y+Gabriella2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbIuEFGhWnPu3UBY_HerlhzrLsZxbuuofR0e1a0eNQa1XoOOUtrJP60_3SBX0FjKLNKYmw1RUbj2xZVIxGtBYM8ynDUI94DfcLZbJ9esdeAyKEGOT9kxGgw1dQG6RcB3yAepOsBLpxEM/s640/Rodrigo+y+Gabriella2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's another picture of them with the rest of the band (or at least a few of their shadows)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhzlHLw1Np8Q-_nI6v-qyEEl-6mYzwmGs0FToRGN7o4kHU5aI8EQoWk-R-eDxaRVv_ScIT6ylUT0JCiD3AlxMeMa-41QXWrGc8ENInj9E5ADZId3YQkqRwip76yXmvjga5hRL2D2ldgc/s1600/Van+Kleef.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhzlHLw1Np8Q-_nI6v-qyEEl-6mYzwmGs0FToRGN7o4kHU5aI8EQoWk-R-eDxaRVv_ScIT6ylUT0JCiD3AlxMeMa-41QXWrGc8ENInj9E5ADZId3YQkqRwip76yXmvjga5hRL2D2ldgc/s640/Van+Kleef.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
After Rodrigo y Gabriella, we grabbed a drink with our friends at bar in downtown Oakland. It was the craziest decorations I've seen anywhere with sculptures, paintings, figurines and random things everywhere. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmcriZNVzxfHRjleGa9hNunhwFV3tm7VIG-PKIHj5DhtSvnearOjpbfYPXFhR8F5q3BqKVjDdRf0yI8XFvto8LKP-FmGQm_ZWWL5asx2i1FJOlkbyFzXu338EEO_WYkaIe27TDVItH5pI/s1600/Flock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmcriZNVzxfHRjleGa9hNunhwFV3tm7VIG-PKIHj5DhtSvnearOjpbfYPXFhR8F5q3BqKVjDdRf0yI8XFvto8LKP-FmGQm_ZWWL5asx2i1FJOlkbyFzXu338EEO_WYkaIe27TDVItH5pI/s640/Flock.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I've also been pretty lucky to have gone to the beach a lot lately. This was a cool shot I got in Santa Cruz of these funny little flock of birds that behaved as one organism, moving and flying as one. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJ17KCGpTgioZYlWMgeNoboQcepMugi3rqerv5Qe9OMGrZ6mb1_FzNGy49Pc9iOagyjvsueyqOAfMILgTDKC8RMWBa_esPhCV-WsAnu5rp4A-ye1pCTpD0_1oJB6hmbTlUWy-7267fP8/s1600/Road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJ17KCGpTgioZYlWMgeNoboQcepMugi3rqerv5Qe9OMGrZ6mb1_FzNGy49Pc9iOagyjvsueyqOAfMILgTDKC8RMWBa_esPhCV-WsAnu5rp4A-ye1pCTpD0_1oJB6hmbTlUWy-7267fP8/s640/Road.jpg" width="506" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In my last post, I mentioned that I was going to be working on a drawing for my chef friend who cooked us an amazing meal. Here it is!<br />
<br />
<br />Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04558543920700081313noreply@blogger.com1