Celebration at the Georgia Dome!
03 December 2006
The Gator Team singing our Alma Mater
The Team (plus Albert) down in the Florida section with the band singing our Alma Mater and We Are The Boys. We ARE THE BOYS!
That's Right Boys
Yup Yup! Thanks boys (and Urban)...we LOVE you. Even if you've beaten all of Danny's records.
2006 SEC Championship Georgia Dome
The Georgia Dome's field, where Florida schooled the Arkansas Razorbacks. I'm glad Kirk Herbstreit would never pick Florida over Ohio State, his Alma Mater, because his lack of support virtually assures us a win! J/K...I fear hubris.
SEC CHAMPIONS
Good thing I didn't finalize my plans/flight to NYC for the SEC Championship Game! Turns out a dear friend had an extra ticket, so I headed down to Atlanta with him and his family to see the game IN PERSON. It was my first Game with a capital G. It was so incredibly worth it, I hope to go to Glendale for the BCS National Championship Game...Anyone got some extra cash they can spare to help me purchase a ticket?!
Da Poor Frignatz overtaken by Marvin K Mooney 3
Oooh, da beasts! These are Ignatz (aka Frignatz) and Marvin K. Mooney my mother's cats. Poor Frignatz was minding his own business recovering from Thanksgiving dinner when Marvin K. Mooney threw his "tons-of-fun" self up for some bonding time. Poor Frignatz.
Since Nashville...
Hey All...Wondering what I've been up to since Nashville? Too much and hardly any camera work! Seriously, I haven't been home a single weekend since the trip to Nashville.
Okay, that isn't entirely true. I was in Chapel Hill the following weekend and got to watch the South Carolina game with the Renegade Chapel Hill Gators at Bailey's. WHEW! That game was BEYOND too close. More on that later.
But! Two weeks later I was in Western Carolina for the Western Carolina game. Bummer that the game was AT Florida. I had a great weekend in Asheville with Rocky. We had tickets to Christmas at the Biltmore, an evening tour complete with musicians, carolers, and festive decorations.
We watched the first three quarters of the Florida/Western Carolina game, then we headed out to the main drag in Asheville for the Holiday Parade and a little wine tasting at the local wine shop. We then headed back to the hotel for the Michigan/Ohio State game before going to dinner and the Biltmore. It was perfect, really. I couldn't believe that the evening was just as wonderful as the day! (Although I could have done with a Michigan win over Ohio State.)
Unfortunately, we don't have many pictures from the trip. In fact, I'm not certain we have one! We weren't able to take pictures in the Biltmore and we didn't really think about it anywhere else. :'(
Then it was Thanksgiving with the fam in Kinston, NC. That was a really nice, relaxing weekend. I got some work done. Hung with the family. Watched A LOT of ESPN and various sports, though football largely.
Saturday alone was about 16 hours of sports! Starting with SportsCenter at 9, continuing through College GameDay, Florida v. Florida State, USC v ND, and then Florida v Kansas (Basketball). Whew. Mom says I was switched at birth! lol
Okay, that isn't entirely true. I was in Chapel Hill the following weekend and got to watch the South Carolina game with the Renegade Chapel Hill Gators at Bailey's. WHEW! That game was BEYOND too close. More on that later.
But! Two weeks later I was in Western Carolina for the Western Carolina game. Bummer that the game was AT Florida. I had a great weekend in Asheville with Rocky. We had tickets to Christmas at the Biltmore, an evening tour complete with musicians, carolers, and festive decorations.
We watched the first three quarters of the Florida/Western Carolina game, then we headed out to the main drag in Asheville for the Holiday Parade and a little wine tasting at the local wine shop. We then headed back to the hotel for the Michigan/Ohio State game before going to dinner and the Biltmore. It was perfect, really. I couldn't believe that the evening was just as wonderful as the day! (Although I could have done with a Michigan win over Ohio State.)
Unfortunately, we don't have many pictures from the trip. In fact, I'm not certain we have one! We weren't able to take pictures in the Biltmore and we didn't really think about it anywhere else. :'(
Then it was Thanksgiving with the fam in Kinston, NC. That was a really nice, relaxing weekend. I got some work done. Hung with the family. Watched A LOT of ESPN and various sports, though football largely.
Saturday alone was about 16 hours of sports! Starting with SportsCenter at 9, continuing through College GameDay, Florida v. Florida State, USC v ND, and then Florida v Kansas (Basketball). Whew. Mom says I was switched at birth! lol
05 November 2006
The Trailhead
More than just a football town, wait...it's not a football town! :) So we hit the trails and took a quick, rather easy hike. It was gorgeous...
Florida at Vandy
You have to wonder, are we in town for the game or for the tailgating. Good question. Remember: Gainesville...it's not a football town with a drinking problem; it's a drinking town with a football problem.
Irony...
Am I the only one who sees the irony in this? The Florida fans are TAILGATING in the bank parking lot IN FRONT of the "Welcome Vandy Fans"...LOL
It's Great to Be a Florida Gator
Having a BLAST at the Wildhorse Saloon with Tom the Music City president.
Yeehaw
I've always wanted to go to the Wildhorse Saloon since it was on The Nashville Network. Here I go to test my mad linedancing skills!!!
Color in the Mormon Parking Lot
More Chapel Hill color...It's a particularly gorgeous November here in North Carolina. Too bad winter is on its dreary way.
SILS Garden
It is fall in Chapel Hill, and the colors are beautiful! Check out the scenery behind one of the SILS Garden Girls.
25 October 2006
mercury is in retrograde...
Just keep chanting: mercury is in retrograde...mercury is in retrograde...mercury is in retrograde...
Turns out...communication is going to be a little bumpy over the next two weeks. Anna tells me not to make any major purchases (ie: anything I cannot return) and to expect miscommunicaiton (ie: not to worry if I'm unclear about things). Easier said than done, huh?
So...do I buy that ticket to NYC?! It's pretty cheap right now, but I'm not certain I really have the time to go up. Of course, I could always go up after the term, but then I'd miss the SEC Championship game.
Decisions...decisions...decisions...Until next week when I'm off to Nashville!
Turns out...communication is going to be a little bumpy over the next two weeks. Anna tells me not to make any major purchases (ie: anything I cannot return) and to expect miscommunicaiton (ie: not to worry if I'm unclear about things). Easier said than done, huh?
So...do I buy that ticket to NYC?! It's pretty cheap right now, but I'm not certain I really have the time to go up. Of course, I could always go up after the term, but then I'd miss the SEC Championship game.
Decisions...decisions...decisions...Until next week when I'm off to Nashville!
21 October 2006
Smithsonian Institute Castle
The original Smithsonian Castle which was built after the creation of the Smithsonian Institute with monies received from the estate of John Smithson, a British Subject.
Outside the Natural History Museum II
On my graduate program's Fall Break trip to Washington DC, I was waiting outside the Natural History Museum for our afternoon tour to begin. The colors, overcast sky, and time...
Paris in DC
So not only is there a Paris Metro station in Manhattan at MoMA...but now there is one in DC?! What's up with that!!!
16 October 2006
OR - Oct 2006
Fri., 13 Oct - Driving the South on the Pacific Coast Hwy (Hwy 101) at a stop along the way to Florence, OR.
OR - Oct 2006
Fri., 13 Oct - The bridge from Seal Island near Heceta Lighthouse (I hope I got that right). Part of Hwy 101.
OR - Oct 2006
Fri., 13 Oct - Do not call me Jackie O. Stopping at Cape Meades near Tillamook, OR at the start of our southern journey along Hwy 101/the Pacific Coast Highway.
OR - Oct 2006
Fri., 13 Oct - A rock, the shore, Oregon Dunes...who says you cant' have it all. Anyone else think Monet might have made a trip to Oregon?
OR - Oct 2006
Fri., 13 Oct - Me and Mom hiding the Pacific Coast during a stop heading South on the Pacific Coast Highway.
OR - Oct 2006
Fri., 13 Oct - A stop at Cape Foulweather on Hwy 101/the Pacific Coast Highway. There we spotted this bench with beautiful carvings, including a compass and a few constellations. If you look closely you might see the Big Dipper.
Me & Timber
Multnomah Falls was amazing, but so are the extra bits you see along the way...such as this massive, felled tree. It's almost as wide as I am tall! That'll give you perspective.
Over the Bridge, Multnomah Falls
Up on the bridge over Multnomah Falls...the bridge is built on the edge of the final plunge. One side of the bridge shows you the magnificent first drop, but looking over the side you realize you aren't very far from the water. The other side, however, gives you a perfect shot of the second plunge. It's a spectacular sight. It seems scarier from the entrance, but it's breathtaking from every angle.
The Bridge @ Multnomah Falls
Mom's a trouper. She hobbled up the ramp with me to the bridge across the Falls. Wasn't as scary as we'd hoped...err...as I hoped. Here's a close up of the bridge.
Mom @ Multnomah Falls 2
This...THIS is the Number One reason I wanted to come to Oregon...Multnomah Falls! I've waited about 2-3 years to get to Oregon. In this shot, my mother is doing her gimpy best to climb the stairs to the viewing area. Thanks, Mom!
Paris Metropolitan Station @ MoMA
Paris comes to Manhattan. Date Two with Rocky, and we hit Free Fridays at MoMA where we not only found a Paris Metro entrance transplanted but a billet on the ground nearby. Was that there on purpose? Next year, I guess I'll have to have birthday drinks at MoMA to celebrate Bastille Day.
04 October 2006
Hitting Balls @ Chelsea Piers
On my first date with Rocky we headed to Chelsea Piers to hit balls. After, we hoofed it uptown to watch the Florida/Tennessee game with Joachim Noah! (Sat., 16 Sept)
Oh, and, just another week til I'm headed to OREGON!!
The celebration can begin...maybe just the countdown. However it works, I'm psyched because in just one short week, I'll be heading to Oregon. A place I have wanted to visit for many years, now. I'll be there long enough to hike around Mt. Hood, the Columbia Gorge and make a scenic drive up and down the coast.
Can't wait. Check back soon for those pictures!
Can't wait. Check back soon for those pictures!
Aah...a trip home
I'm leaving for New York on Friday, and every day is one day closer to my trip home. It's a glorious feeling, really, except that it makes me think the week is farther along that it really is. I swear I think I'm leaving tomorrow (Thursday) when it's only Wednesday. I do believe this is the first time I've started packing for a trip more than 24-hours before my departure. Am I ok? Or am I just ready to move back home? If you know the answer, please let me know!
19 September 2006
NYC for the Florida/Tennessee Game
Ahh...Nothing like the third weekend of college football to get the blood pumping. Every season, third weekend...Florida beats up on Tennessee. It's nervewracking. It's anxiety-ridden. It's the best weekend of the season, unless you make Jax for the Cocktail Party.
But, this...this was the best of all Florida/Tennessee weekends in New York. Know why? Because Joakim Noah and his friends not only were in town, but they came to the Gin Mill. Can you give me a Mick Hubert "Oh My!"
The weekend was one of the best ever. Worth every penny I didn't have to spend but did!
But, this...this was the best of all Florida/Tennessee weekends in New York. Know why? Because Joakim Noah and his friends not only were in town, but they came to the Gin Mill. Can you give me a Mick Hubert "Oh My!"
The weekend was one of the best ever. Worth every penny I didn't have to spend but did!
Anna, Noah, Mere
Anna, Noah, Mere
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
I think I'm in heart. Seriously. This man has 'IT' and you know it immediately.
Me and my roommate Anna at the Gin Mill and hanging with Noah. Top that!
30 August 2006
Josiah Beach, 4x4 Excursion, Tortola - Aug 9
Josiah Beach, 4x4 Excursion, Tortola - Aug 9
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
Seriously, this is the beach where Catherine and I were 'stranded' during our tour. I think this may be the start of my jigsaw puzzle picture taking career.
Catherine & her Bud (yuck), 4x4 Excursion, Tortola - Aug 9
Catherine & her Bud (yuck), 4x4 Excursion, Tortola - Aug 9
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
You can go with either headline, really: Beer, it's not just for breakfast anymore OR Budweiser the Breakfast of Champions!
The Islands
Not to be ungrateful...but...when you've been to St. Thomas as often as my family, there really isn't anything exciting to see and do. In fact, if you ask me, when you've been to the Caribbean as often as we have, there isn't much left to do anywhere down there. Aside from a few really remarkable locations...if you've seen one...
That said, we weren't took surprised by St. Thomas. We were well versed in the location and its offerings. Coral World was kind of interesting and kind of run down simultaneously. If you've been to Sea World, there's no need to go to Coral World. Stick with Shamu!
The next day we were in Tortola, which was new for all of us and what sold us on the cruise. We were all looking for something new. While we had a nice time, we didn't see anything new. It was the same island tour. This time the family split up. Catherine and I took a 4x4 Land Rover tour, which wasn't very much of a Land Rover tour. Mom stuck with the tried and true bus tour, hoping for some A/C. It's August folks, we were all hoping for some A/C. In the end, we lucked out. While neither had A/C, our stop had beer! Check Catherine out with her breakfast of champions!!!
That said, we weren't took surprised by St. Thomas. We were well versed in the location and its offerings. Coral World was kind of interesting and kind of run down simultaneously. If you've been to Sea World, there's no need to go to Coral World. Stick with Shamu!
The next day we were in Tortola, which was new for all of us and what sold us on the cruise. We were all looking for something new. While we had a nice time, we didn't see anything new. It was the same island tour. This time the family split up. Catherine and I took a 4x4 Land Rover tour, which wasn't very much of a Land Rover tour. Mom stuck with the tried and true bus tour, hoping for some A/C. It's August folks, we were all hoping for some A/C. In the end, we lucked out. While neither had A/C, our stop had beer! Check Catherine out with her breakfast of champions!!!
26 August 2006
Waters of St. Thomas, USVI - Aug 8
Waters of St. Thomas, USVI - Aug 8
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
Here we are on St. Thomas in August. With a cold beer in your hand, life ain't so bad!
With the ship having left the harbor, we are on our way for eight days. We won't be back in the States until Aug 13. The ship is really nice, and best of all...we have two days at sea before we get to any ports of call, which really just get in the way, if you ask me.
With two days at sea, a balcony and a knitting project is necessary! We've come prepared for breakfast room service - it's the best. We have the same routine on every cruise:
1. Room service at 6;
2. Walk a Mile/Gym;
3. Breakfast in the Restaurant;
4. Mass if offered.
You'll notice it's activity - eat - activity - eat :)
I finished the yarn for the project I brought, which was upsetting. Then I had to spend more than I wanted in New York on yarn for a new knitting project. Just what I need, another unfinished knitting project, but that's for another blog.
Ahh...life at sea. Reminds me of "Failure to Launch" when Matthew McConaughey says to SJP:
"Holy Crap! That's a big wave."
Sailing from New York City to St. Thomas, the family begins to relax finding time for craft activities (needlework for mom and Catherine, knitting for me) and reading our books from the ship's library. Now I'm hooked on Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Guess I'll have to rent the movie, now! Catherine had finally broken down and was reading The Da Vinci Code.
Oh, man, land's in sight. I hate that.
With two days at sea, a balcony and a knitting project is necessary! We've come prepared for breakfast room service - it's the best. We have the same routine on every cruise:
1. Room service at 6;
2. Walk a Mile/Gym;
3. Breakfast in the Restaurant;
4. Mass if offered.
You'll notice it's activity - eat - activity - eat :)
I finished the yarn for the project I brought, which was upsetting. Then I had to spend more than I wanted in New York on yarn for a new knitting project. Just what I need, another unfinished knitting project, but that's for another blog.
Ahh...life at sea. Reminds me of "Failure to Launch" when Matthew McConaughey says to SJP:
"Holy Crap! That's a big wave."
Sailing from New York City to St. Thomas, the family begins to relax finding time for craft activities (needlework for mom and Catherine, knitting for me) and reading our books from the ship's library. Now I'm hooked on Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Guess I'll have to rent the movie, now! Catherine had finally broken down and was reading The Da Vinci Code.
Oh, man, land's in sight. I hate that.
19 August 2006
Mustering with NYC as the Backdrop - Aug 5
Mustering with NYC as the Backdrop - Aug 5
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
The roadtrip finished, it was time to sit back and relax on our summer cruise. We took the Norwegian Spirit out of New York for eight days with stops in St. Thomas, Tortola, and Bermuda.
'PlayHouse' at Boldt Castle, Heart Island, NY - Aug 2
Mom in 'PlayHouse' at Boldt Castle, Heart Island, NY - Aug 2
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
Visiting Boldt Castle on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands. I love this photograph!
18 August 2006
HOT! HOT! HOT! Oneida, NY - Aug 1
HOT! HOT! HOT! Oneida, NY - Aug 1
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
Driving around Oneida Lake in New York; it was freakin' hot. Just to prove it...I took a photo of a time & temp board!
17 August 2006
Philadelphia & Western New York
WooHoo! Family roadtrip. Mom and I on the open highway, looking at the map in the morning to see where we'll end up that day/night. LOVE IT!
Over the next week/ten days we drove to Bethlehem, PA where we had dinner with my grandmother and down to Philadelphia for a long weekend. Checking out my old 'hood and city was fabulous. So many things hadn't changed; yet, so many things had. The best part was catching up with an old pal and recently retired president of the Philly Gator Club.
With our visit in Philadelphia at an end, mom and I wound our way back up to Bethlehem, crossed in to New York and over to Brewerton on the edge of Oneida Lake. We wound our way around Oneida eating at Grazziano's in Canastota often. Honestly, it's the best Italian I've eaten in a very long time.
We then worked our way up to Thousand Islands following the coast of Lake Ontario until we came to the St. Lawrence River. The coast and island area is really quite nice and quaint, almost untouched.
Then it was time to return to Syracuse to collect my sister from the airport just in time for our cruise out of Manhattan!
Over the next week/ten days we drove to Bethlehem, PA where we had dinner with my grandmother and down to Philadelphia for a long weekend. Checking out my old 'hood and city was fabulous. So many things hadn't changed; yet, so many things had. The best part was catching up with an old pal and recently retired president of the Philly Gator Club.
With our visit in Philadelphia at an end, mom and I wound our way back up to Bethlehem, crossed in to New York and over to Brewerton on the edge of Oneida Lake. We wound our way around Oneida eating at Grazziano's in Canastota often. Honestly, it's the best Italian I've eaten in a very long time.
We then worked our way up to Thousand Islands following the coast of Lake Ontario until we came to the St. Lawrence River. The coast and island area is really quite nice and quaint, almost untouched.
Then it was time to return to Syracuse to collect my sister from the airport just in time for our cruise out of Manhattan!
Entering NY State - July 31
Entering NY State - July 31
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
My piss-poor "Welcome to New York" picture captured from the car coming from Penssylvania.
16 August 2006
Back in the States...Safely
Landing safely at JFK and making my way to Raleigh; my roommate and I finished packing up our apartment. We moved from one apartment to another within the complex that Monday and Tuesday so we can enjoy a patio during our final year of study. It was 100-degrees outside, but we got it done.
Immediately following, I left with my mother for a three-week roadtrip and an eight-day cruise. After which, I would leave one family to visit with another, my girls in NYC.
Here I'll post the stories...
First, mom and I drove to Mechanicville, NY (outside Albany) to take an elderly grand (?) aunt to a variety of doctors. We drove from Greenville, NC to Mechanicville, NY over the course of two days. While in Mechanicville, we took a trip around Great Sacandaga Lake. A few days later we headed back to Greenville for our own doctor's appoitments, a family birthday party, and to play with the kittens.
Immediately following, I left with my mother for a three-week roadtrip and an eight-day cruise. After which, I would leave one family to visit with another, my girls in NYC.
Here I'll post the stories...
First, mom and I drove to Mechanicville, NY (outside Albany) to take an elderly grand (?) aunt to a variety of doctors. We drove from Greenville, NC to Mechanicville, NY over the course of two days. While in Mechanicville, we took a trip around Great Sacandaga Lake. A few days later we headed back to Greenville for our own doctor's appoitments, a family birthday party, and to play with the kittens.
31 July 2006
Who Could Be Happier I Ask?
Who Could Be Happier I Ask?
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
Finally...drinking with friends for our last night in Paris. Can you tell how happy I am? we are?
da_mere on the Champs du Mars
Mere, MFABT, 15 July 2006
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
Riding along during Mike's Fat Ass Bike Tour.
Please don't end, Paris...I love you
Talk about the best birthday. Saturday arrived. Our cameras were still missing. The first party-girl was leaving to return home. The end was nearing.
By Saturday we were really tired and couldn't bring ourselves to do much...so...we set out on a fruitless adventure to the Bois du Bologne, but gave up once we got to the neighborhood. We simply weren't prepared.
We returned to the Latin Quarter and ran our various errands. I sat down for a last meal of mussels. Some of the group ran about then returned to join me.
At 6 or 7, I can't remember, we all met under the Eiffel Tower for what we like to call Mike's Fat Ass Bike Tour. Simply, this was the greatest tour I've ever taken; I can't recommed it enough. If they have one in the city you are visiting - GO!
We rode around Paris for a few hours taking some great photographs, then hopped on a boat for a cruise up and down the Seine. The tour provides some wine, but that wasn't enough for us...so we picked up 20 or so beers at a nearby stand. Good times, good times.
We drunkenly peddaled the rest of the way to the tour offices. Then, with new friends from the tour, we headed back to the Latin Quarter for some late night drinks and dancing.
Somehow, miraculously, I awoke Sunday morning about the time we were supposed to be collected for the airport. That was the fastest packing, cleaning, and exiting of a flat by four people (3 girls!) I have ever witnessed!!! But we made it downstairs and to the airport. Sadly.
Aside from a few snafus, mostly the loss of our cameras and pictures, this was the greatest week of my life. In the meantime, I've been on a few roadtrips, used a few disposable cameras, and bought a new, slightly fancier, camera.
I'll write more when next I have Internet access.
By Saturday we were really tired and couldn't bring ourselves to do much...so...we set out on a fruitless adventure to the Bois du Bologne, but gave up once we got to the neighborhood. We simply weren't prepared.
We returned to the Latin Quarter and ran our various errands. I sat down for a last meal of mussels. Some of the group ran about then returned to join me.
At 6 or 7, I can't remember, we all met under the Eiffel Tower for what we like to call Mike's Fat Ass Bike Tour. Simply, this was the greatest tour I've ever taken; I can't recommed it enough. If they have one in the city you are visiting - GO!
We rode around Paris for a few hours taking some great photographs, then hopped on a boat for a cruise up and down the Seine. The tour provides some wine, but that wasn't enough for us...so we picked up 20 or so beers at a nearby stand. Good times, good times.
We drunkenly peddaled the rest of the way to the tour offices. Then, with new friends from the tour, we headed back to the Latin Quarter for some late night drinks and dancing.
Somehow, miraculously, I awoke Sunday morning about the time we were supposed to be collected for the airport. That was the fastest packing, cleaning, and exiting of a flat by four people (3 girls!) I have ever witnessed!!! But we made it downstairs and to the airport. Sadly.
Aside from a few snafus, mostly the loss of our cameras and pictures, this was the greatest week of my life. In the meantime, I've been on a few roadtrips, used a few disposable cameras, and bought a new, slightly fancier, camera.
I'll write more when next I have Internet access.
The World's Greatest Fireworks Display
Fireworks Ballet IV, Champs du Mars, Bastille Day 2006
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
You'd have thought you were at the ballet. It was the perfect birthday...Thank you to all of my dear, dear friends!!!
It's Here - The Big...Bastille Day, ofc
Wow. It's here. Bastille Day. I've waiting years for this day. I'm not sure what that says about me...but it is what it is, as an ex would say.
I awoke early, showered, and ran out the door. I didn't think the Louvre would be open, but it was. It was my understanding that the metro system would be extremely limited and that business and cultural institutions would be closed due to the holiday. That information was wrong. I took a bus to the Louvre, which was free.
I couldn't believe how giddy with excitement I was. I hadn't anticipated such emotions. I ran through the Louvre with my AudioGuide thrilled at every turn. Well, thrilled at every turn aside from all the people. =D
I saw all the requirements: Mona Lisa, Winged Nike, and Venus de Milo. Then I also saw things that were important to me, largely Mesopotamian, such as the Code of Hammurabi! WOW!
I had to run back to the flat to meet Anna. We were meeting up with Aussie Paul and his friend Aaron at their hotel then heading to the Eiffel Tower/Champs du Mars to picnic and watch the fireworks. We knew Aussie Paul was lying when he told us it was a ten minute walk, but we didn't think it'd be closer to a 45 minute walk.
We found a spot, moved a few times, and settled in for the long haul. We had a great spot. A little boy and his family sat next to us and we played football/soccer with him. As the sun set, the crowd fell silent. The celebration had begun!
These were the most amazing fireworks I had ever seen! It was more a ballet than a display of ammo. WOWZERS.
All was pure bliss until we began collecting our belongings to go home. Anna's camera was missing! I said, we'll use the flash on mine to find yours. Mine was gone too! Our cameras had been stolen!!! For me, the loss of pictures was intense. For Anna it was really intense; the camera was brand, spanking new.
Thankfully others had cameras, and have shared their pictures. But we are largely without pictures from the beginning of the week. We had to drown our sorrows. Thanks for the drinks and shots Aussie Paul!
I awoke early, showered, and ran out the door. I didn't think the Louvre would be open, but it was. It was my understanding that the metro system would be extremely limited and that business and cultural institutions would be closed due to the holiday. That information was wrong. I took a bus to the Louvre, which was free.
I couldn't believe how giddy with excitement I was. I hadn't anticipated such emotions. I ran through the Louvre with my AudioGuide thrilled at every turn. Well, thrilled at every turn aside from all the people. =D
I saw all the requirements: Mona Lisa, Winged Nike, and Venus de Milo. Then I also saw things that were important to me, largely Mesopotamian, such as the Code of Hammurabi! WOW!
I had to run back to the flat to meet Anna. We were meeting up with Aussie Paul and his friend Aaron at their hotel then heading to the Eiffel Tower/Champs du Mars to picnic and watch the fireworks. We knew Aussie Paul was lying when he told us it was a ten minute walk, but we didn't think it'd be closer to a 45 minute walk.
We found a spot, moved a few times, and settled in for the long haul. We had a great spot. A little boy and his family sat next to us and we played football/soccer with him. As the sun set, the crowd fell silent. The celebration had begun!
These were the most amazing fireworks I had ever seen! It was more a ballet than a display of ammo. WOWZERS.
All was pure bliss until we began collecting our belongings to go home. Anna's camera was missing! I said, we'll use the flash on mine to find yours. Mine was gone too! Our cameras had been stolen!!! For me, the loss of pictures was intense. For Anna it was really intense; the camera was brand, spanking new.
Thankfully others had cameras, and have shared their pictures. But we are largely without pictures from the beginning of the week. We had to drown our sorrows. Thanks for the drinks and shots Aussie Paul!
The Girls & Aussie Paul
The Girls & Aussie Paul
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
The wait over...we're all on the Champs du Mars awaiting sunset and fireworks over the Eiffel Tower. 14 July 2006
26 July 2006
Waiting, and waiting, and waiting...
Thursday came, and I was exhausted. I had been unable to sleep the night before because I was anxious about Susan and Matt finding each other at CDG then making their way to the apartment. Finally, I took a xanax so I could get some rest. The remainder of the house (Thanda and Anna) had been asleep for hours.
As usual, I was the first to get up and leave the house. Anna and I met over coffee and yogurt at Le Croissanterie across the street. Then we started off for Notre Dame, Saint Chapelle and Musee d'Orsay.
Armed with my museum pass, I cut all the lines and never paid a dime. Anna, however, didn't have a museum pass, which meant I basically waited in line while waiting for her.
Notre Dame was everything I expected. It was perfect. Normally you spend your life hearing about something and your expectations are way to high...so when you get there you are nothing but disappointed. Not so with Notre Dame. It was just right.
Then we crossed over to Saint Chappelle hidden in the Department of Justice. It is the most glorious thing I have ever seen. I mean, we have nothing on these people. When the aliens come down from the heavens and are judging our civilization...they will think this is the height of all of our accomplishments, even though it was built during a time referred to as the Dark Ages. Simply Stunning.
A quick run through the Musee d'Orsay and I had to head home. Susan and Matt should have arrived from CDG around 11.45/noon. No such luck, they were both delayed on their outbound flights because of weather problems in New York. Of course, neither knew that or could communicate with the other, so they took individual taxis when they still could have shared a ride. Oh well. Such is life. At least they both arrived safely. In the meantime I sat in the apartment watching German and UK MTV from about 11.30 until 3 pm.
Matt and I left moments after his arrival. We took in the Pompidou Center, which I had been wanting to see since I was an undergrad, and the rest of the Musee d'Orsay. We then met the girls for dinner out on the town.
Susan, in her infinite wisdom and extensive past with Paris, took us to an Irish bar in Paris' Bastille region where she had first had Strongbow cider. It was a HIKE. It was like being on the Upper East Side and then deciding to walk to a bar in the Village for an after dinner drink. No joke.
Susan, God bless her, got us our drinks for free...almost free. Ahh. Nothing like having your best friends around you. I am freakin' lucky!
As usual, I was the first to get up and leave the house. Anna and I met over coffee and yogurt at Le Croissanterie across the street. Then we started off for Notre Dame, Saint Chapelle and Musee d'Orsay.
Armed with my museum pass, I cut all the lines and never paid a dime. Anna, however, didn't have a museum pass, which meant I basically waited in line while waiting for her.
Notre Dame was everything I expected. It was perfect. Normally you spend your life hearing about something and your expectations are way to high...so when you get there you are nothing but disappointed. Not so with Notre Dame. It was just right.
Then we crossed over to Saint Chappelle hidden in the Department of Justice. It is the most glorious thing I have ever seen. I mean, we have nothing on these people. When the aliens come down from the heavens and are judging our civilization...they will think this is the height of all of our accomplishments, even though it was built during a time referred to as the Dark Ages. Simply Stunning.
A quick run through the Musee d'Orsay and I had to head home. Susan and Matt should have arrived from CDG around 11.45/noon. No such luck, they were both delayed on their outbound flights because of weather problems in New York. Of course, neither knew that or could communicate with the other, so they took individual taxis when they still could have shared a ride. Oh well. Such is life. At least they both arrived safely. In the meantime I sat in the apartment watching German and UK MTV from about 11.30 until 3 pm.
Matt and I left moments after his arrival. We took in the Pompidou Center, which I had been wanting to see since I was an undergrad, and the rest of the Musee d'Orsay. We then met the girls for dinner out on the town.
Susan, in her infinite wisdom and extensive past with Paris, took us to an Irish bar in Paris' Bastille region where she had first had Strongbow cider. It was a HIKE. It was like being on the Upper East Side and then deciding to walk to a bar in the Village for an after dinner drink. No joke.
Susan, God bless her, got us our drinks for free...almost free. Ahh. Nothing like having your best friends around you. I am freakin' lucky!
25 July 2006
Bastille Day 2006
Alit at Dusk, Champs du Mars, Bastille Day 2006
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
Ok, so we didn't see the Eiffel Tower until late in the week, but this is, after all, why we went. To watch fireworks over the Eiffel Tower.
First Days in Paris...
When I first took my sister to Washington D. C. many years ago, she said she did not want to go to the National Gallery of Art because she didn't know anything about art. I told her simply, when you see a painting on which you wish to comment, simply say - It reminds me of Paris in the springtime. Now...that means something to me :)
Wow. Did we have a good time.
The first few days was just the six of us. We felt we had plenty of time to see the sights, enjoy our time with each other, and relax. Boy were we wrong.
We were lucky enough to arrive in time for the World Cup final, but not lucky enough for France to win...which only meant a reasonable bed time, not that we held back on the drinking!
We walked all over the Latin Quarter, then over to the Louvre and down the Champs Elysee on Monday. It was quite a day, really. On Tuesday we went to Versailles.
I'm going to share pictures, but honestly, our cameras were stolen on Friday. So all the pictures I have are from later in the week from the others. Ok, so Thanda's disposable cameras weren't stolen :)
Wednesday we spent the morning together visiting Montemartre, but then split in the afternoon. I shopped around Montemartre, then headed to the St. Honore district. Exhausted, we packed a nice picnic of spreads, cheese, bread and wine then walked to the Jardin de Luxembourg. After, I walked over to Shakespeare and Co the bookseller and to Notre Dame, which was mere blocks from our flat.
Wow. Did we have a good time.
The first few days was just the six of us. We felt we had plenty of time to see the sights, enjoy our time with each other, and relax. Boy were we wrong.
We were lucky enough to arrive in time for the World Cup final, but not lucky enough for France to win...which only meant a reasonable bed time, not that we held back on the drinking!
We walked all over the Latin Quarter, then over to the Louvre and down the Champs Elysee on Monday. It was quite a day, really. On Tuesday we went to Versailles.
I'm going to share pictures, but honestly, our cameras were stolen on Friday. So all the pictures I have are from later in the week from the others. Ok, so Thanda's disposable cameras weren't stolen :)
Wednesday we spent the morning together visiting Montemartre, but then split in the afternoon. I shopped around Montemartre, then headed to the St. Honore district. Exhausted, we packed a nice picnic of spreads, cheese, bread and wine then walked to the Jardin de Luxembourg. After, I walked over to Shakespeare and Co the bookseller and to Notre Dame, which was mere blocks from our flat.
Back to Civilization
Hey All - Finally, an internet connection. I decided not to take my laptop with me to France after all. Seemed I would spend all my time on the damn thing...so I bought a journal instead. I figured it was more appropriate to spend my days writing in a journal at a cafe than searching for WiFi.
I did bring the little black box Packet8 sent me, which meant we had Internet phone in the flat. That was key. Every one could call home or have home call France...without cost. Beautiful.
All in all, we had seven people. Anna and I flew over together meeting Thanda at the airport. Susan and Matt flew over on Thursday, both delayed by weather. Paul brought a childhood friend, Aaron, from London on Friday. It was a birthday straight out of the movies.
I did bring the little black box Packet8 sent me, which meant we had Internet phone in the flat. That was key. Every one could call home or have home call France...without cost. Beautiful.
All in all, we had seven people. Anna and I flew over together meeting Thanda at the airport. Susan and Matt flew over on Thursday, both delayed by weather. Paul brought a childhood friend, Aaron, from London on Friday. It was a birthday straight out of the movies.
08 July 2006
Today's the Day...So Is Tomorrow.
Today's the day I leave for Paris. I'm totally nervous, excited, anxious, curious, and slightly depressed. If it's a typical travel experience for me, the depression will only increase as the day wears on. The rest will maintain their adrenaline draining status. I should be exhausted by mid-afternoon, especially since I've been up since 5.30 AM.
My apartment is a mess. We move the day I get back from Paris. In fact, I plan on getting home from the airport and starting to move early. If that doesn't increase my depression, I don't know what will. Maybe being in my 30s.
I meet Anna at JFK. Then we meet Thanda at Roissy/Charles de Gaulle. At least we'll be in Paris for the World Cup Final. That should be incredibly memorable. I missed Indianapolis and Gainesville when we won the basketball national championship, but I won't miss Paris and the WC win!
Wish me luck...and be grateful for xanax.
My apartment is a mess. We move the day I get back from Paris. In fact, I plan on getting home from the airport and starting to move early. If that doesn't increase my depression, I don't know what will. Maybe being in my 30s.
I meet Anna at JFK. Then we meet Thanda at Roissy/Charles de Gaulle. At least we'll be in Paris for the World Cup Final. That should be incredibly memorable. I missed Indianapolis and Gainesville when we won the basketball national championship, but I won't miss Paris and the WC win!
Wish me luck...and be grateful for xanax.
03 July 2006
Be Seated
Be Seated
Originally uploaded by da_mere.
OMG - I love Stacy. We went to high school together, and the girl just rocks. I hardly get to see her anymore, but she has the greatest stories. In fact, I stole the idea for this year's birthday party from her, which meant I couldn't make hers :( Regardless...she went to China, and this is far and away the best pic of the trip! Enjoy.
02 July 2006
welcome to my travel blog
Hey All.
I'm finalizing my plans for a trip to Paris for my 30th birthday. I've been planning the trip for the last five years, and it's finally here. I leave Saturday.
Five dear friends are coming with me, and we're going to have a blast. I love my friends and I love to travel. Hopefully, it will all come together nicely.
I try to go on one trip per month, minimum. Especially since I've moved to a new place...so much to experience, now, even if it's just a quick trip to a neighboring county. Or a quick run to the county seat for a sourdough bread/wine tasting.
I'll work on learning to upload pics from flickr, otherwise, I'll just provide links to the pics. Probably a great way to share my trip journals with family and friends!
All trip suggestions welcome!
I'm finalizing my plans for a trip to Paris for my 30th birthday. I've been planning the trip for the last five years, and it's finally here. I leave Saturday.
Five dear friends are coming with me, and we're going to have a blast. I love my friends and I love to travel. Hopefully, it will all come together nicely.
I try to go on one trip per month, minimum. Especially since I've moved to a new place...so much to experience, now, even if it's just a quick trip to a neighboring county. Or a quick run to the county seat for a sourdough bread/wine tasting.
I'll work on learning to upload pics from flickr, otherwise, I'll just provide links to the pics. Probably a great way to share my trip journals with family and friends!
All trip suggestions welcome!
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