Travels with Tim

San Francisco

2011-03-24T14:30:00.000-06:00

I love the old houses in San Francisco

California Coast

2010-09-24T13:40:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple pictures from a nice drive up the Coast and Big Sur. Beautiful scenery, good company, nice music, good times.

It doesn't much better than this!
Julia Pfeiffer State Park, CA (McWay Falls)

Looking North along the Californian Coast

Bird at McWay Fall, CA

Alicante and a well deserved break

2010-08-04T13:09:00.003-06:00

After walking, hiking, and trekking as a pilgrim across Spain for almost a month, I decided that it was time for a nice relaxing break. I have visited every region of Spain (except the islands) with the exception of Alicante. So, in order to complete my Spanish “collection” I decided to relax in the beautiful Mediterranean city of Alicante. It has been so relaxing not having to hike 8 hours a day. The first day all I did was sit on the beach or in the hotel (so nice to have a private room with wifi). After the first couple days though, I was ready to go for a longer walk. I walked along the coast and really enjoyed it. I will admit that I took the bus back into town though. :)

Levels of Lights - Alicante, Spain

Reaching into the Mediterranean - Alicante, Spain

Sunset near Alicante, Spain

Alicante, Spain

Santiago de Compostela

2010-07-22T19:14:00.002-06:00

After more than 700km, I arrived in Santiago de Compostela on the morning of July 22nd (my birthday). This year is the Año Jacobeo and so it is a special year. It really is hard to put in words what it is like to arrive in Santiago as a true pilgrim. I have many thoughts and feelings, but for some reason I am still internalizing them. I may at some point try to put into words what it is like, but for now, all I can say is... Life is good when you have a goal, work to do, time to rest, people to meet, and time to think. It is when we don't stop and enjoy life that we become stressed, sick and tired. I also learned that there is a good kind of tired; the kind of tired you feel at the end of the day when you can look back and see that you have accomplished something. It makes you smile and gives you the confidence that you can move forward again tomorrow and slowly but surely get closer and closer to your ultimate goal which in my case was arriving in Santiago on my birthday. Buen Camino!

Santiago de Compostela

Castilian Plains to Galician Terrains

2010-07-21T19:24:00.000-06:00

Grain fields in Navarra

Poppies in the fields near Burgos

After the long flat walks across the hot, dry, sunny Castilian plains, the Camino starts climbing into the mountains as you prepare to enter Galicia. You know when you get to Galicia because everything turns green and wet. : ) The morning walks are misty, damp and very refreshing. The forests, valleys and hills are enchanting; truly a place for fairytales and Celtic stories.

The mountain pass leading to Galicia

Galicia fields

Galicia's Enchanting Woods

Camino de Santiago

2010-07-21T18:37:00.000-06:00

Here are my twelve favorite photographs of the Camino de Santiago. They are from Navarra, La Rioja, Castilla & Leon, and Galicia. Bueno Camino!

Stops on the Camino de Santiago

2010-07-17T15:31:00.007-06:00

Camino de Santiago - Even though everyday you need to move forward, a lot of your time as a pilgrim is spent in various cities and small towns along the Camino. A pilgrim needs to eat, rest, sleep, relax, etc. Here are a few pictures from some of the stops on the Camino. (I have many more pictures and decided not to include pictures from places I have already talked about in this blog.)

Tempting benches, but the arrow says it all... Keep on walking... Santiago is that way --->

Knights Templar Castle in Ponferrada

Cafe, Mini & Leon

Iglesia in Torres del Rio

Santiago - Symbols and Pilgrim Items

2010-07-01T14:41:00.002-06:00

Saint James has several symbols. The two that I like the most are the pilgrim’s staff and the scallop shell. Virtually every pilgrim has a shell or something representing the shell and many have staffs or walking sticks. Other important items that mark a serious pilgrim are a backpack and hat. By the second day, I like most pilgrims, went through my pack and removed all items that were not absolutely necessary (Why did I bring so many books, jeans, toiletries, etc?). The final important item is of course a good pair of boots or shoes. I have seen pilgrims wearing everything from massive hiking boots, to running shoes, to sandals, to flip flops. Needless to say, your feet go through a lot as a pilgrim. I have had four blisters. I have been lucky. I’ve seen some impressive blisters. Taking care of your body is number one on to do list of any pilgrim.

Scallop Shell for Pilgrims

My pack, hat and stick

For all your pilgrim needs

El Camino de Santiago

2010-06-27T14:25:00.004-06:00

El Camino de Santiago

I have wanted to do the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela for a very long time. I am finally a pilgrim and will arrive in Santiago after walking about 700 kilometers and 3.5 weeks of walking. Also, being true to my goal of spending my birthday in interesting places, I will arrive on the 22^nd of July. The Camino (path, trail, way, etc) is well marked with yellow arrow and signs. I have already walked some of the Camino and have enjoyed it (even with the blisters and sore shoulders). There is something strangely satisfying about waking up early, having a goal in mind, working hard to get to the destination, giving your body what it needs and then seeing the results as you slowly but surely get closer to your final destination.

El Camino de Santiago

Oviedo Images

2009-08-24T01:33:00.004-06:00

Here are three random photos I took while I was in Asturias Spain this summer. I like the combination of the three. I like the lines, cirlces, colors, texture and lighting. I hope you like them too. (1# window, #2 rental car, #3 Univeristy of Oviedo sidewalks)

Asuncion Paraguay

2009-07-30T00:05:00.001-06:00

The Government Palace - Asuncion

Guards in Asuncion

My Hotel in Asuncion, Paraguay

El Cabildo in Asunción, Paraguay

2009-07-30T00:02:00.014-06:00

I'm spending a couple days in Paraguay and I have to say that Asunción is an interesting capitol city. It has a lot of beautiful historic buildings and areas. There are also many old buildings in need of repair and I would love to see them restored and maintained. One beautiful old building is the Cabildo. This pink colonial building is very much worth a visit. Here are a few pictures to give you an idea of its simple clean colonial beauty.

El Cabildo Asunción, Paraguay

Stairs in El Cabildo in Asunción, Paraguay

Window in El Cabildo in Asunción, Paraguay

Art in Asunción, Paraguay

Cathedral in Asuncion

2009-07-30T00:01:00.000-06:00

La Catedral Metropolitana de Asuncion

(Left - One of the side naves in the cathedral)
(Right - Paseo Comuneros)

Livramento & Uruguaiana, Brazil

2009-07-25T00:44:00.000-06:00

I left Uruguay through Rivera and the northern border. Rivera and Livramento are virtually the same city. To cross from one country to the other is as easy as walking across the main park. After a few days on the border I headed into Brazil. I spent a day or two in Uruguaiana (Brazil) which is right on the border with Argentina. It is a pleasant little city and was a nice stop before returning to Argentina. (Picture to the right is the Cathedral in Uruguaiana. Picture above is a building in Livramento)

Brazilian police horse having a break under a tree (Livramento)

The River Uruguay looking at Argentina from the Brazilian shore

Legislative Palace in Montevideo, Uruguay

2009-07-25T00:01:00.000-06:00

A good friend from Montevideo came with me for a tour of the national government building El Palacio Legislativo. It truly is an amazing building. The stone and wood working inside and outside are wonderfully artistic. The details are astounding and everywhere. And, the library, oh the library, it is simply an enchanting room. I would love to spend an afternoon reading in it; in one of the big leather arm chairs surrounded by books, statues, history and the most enticing smell... the smell of knowledge and wisdom written on paper and bound in leather.

The Legislative Palace in Montevideo, Uruguay

Library in the Palace - notice the inlaid wood

Detail above a door in the Legislative Palace - solid stone

Detail of a gate at the Legislative Palace

Teatro Solis - Montevideo Uruguay

2009-07-22T00:29:00.000-06:00

Teatro Solis is such a wonderful and beautiful place. I was lucky enough to get to visit there this year and to be acompanied by one of my most favorite people. Gracias Lila.

Teatro Solis - Montevideo

Teatro Solis - Montevideo

La Casa de Guerra

2009-07-22T00:24:00.004-06:00

This house has a very special place in my heart, life and mind. It has been in many dreams. It fills me with happy memories and good feelings. It is my sanctuary and my peace.

La Casa

Montevideo - Uruguay

2009-07-21T01:36:00.000-06:00

It has been a long time since I was last in Montevideo, Uruguay. I was very exicted to return to this charming South American capitol city. The main reason to return was to visit dear friends (whom I would include as being as dear as family to me). Of course, this is a very cold time of year to visit Uruguay, but I want to be here for my birthday. Here are a few pictures from Montevideo.

Montevideo's Ciudad Vieja in the beautiful country of Uruguay

El Cerro in Montevideo, Uruguay

Locks on Avenida 18 de Julio - Montevideo

When you find someone special, get a lock and together place it on the fence and then throw the key into the fountain. Judging by the number of locks, Montevideo is a happy place.

Plaza de la Constitución - Montevideo

The wind kicking up the Río de la Plata - Montevideo

La Ramba - Montevideo

Madrid

2009-07-11T01:25:00.001-06:00

Well once again it is time to say good-bye to Spain. I always start and end my Spanish trips in Madrid. In many ways Madrid feels like home and I tend to visit the same wonderful places here in the capital city. This time was no exception, however I also wanted to explore some parts I don't usually visit. Here are three "Good-bye Spain" pictures.

The Almundena Cathedral in front of the Royal Palace Madrid

BMW Headquarters in Madrid

Plaza de Castilla

Cashel, Ireland

2009-07-06T20:27:00.007-06:00

Hore Abbey near the Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel

The view from the Rock of Cashel

Cashel, Ireland

My Bed and Breakfast is the white building in this picture

Cashel, Ireland

Field in Cashel, Ireland

Waterdrops on Clover - Cashel, Ireland

Cahir Ireland

2009-07-05T20:23:00.004-06:00

I had to change buses in Cahir and decided to take advantage of the time by visiting Cahir Castle. I was not disappointed. It is a charming castle and a great place to spend some time. I enjoyed climbing the battlements and towers. I enjoyed the rooms and gardens. And, I enjoyed the fact that is wasn't crowded at all. I was the king of the castle for a few short hours. The castle is a must see for anyone in the area. (To the right you'll see the stair built inside the wall.)

Window in Cahir Castle

Cahir Castle

Roses in Cahir Castle Ireland

Limerick and Adare Ireland

2009-07-04T20:22:00.012-06:00

I stayed in a quaint little hotel called the Railroad Hotel in Limerick Ireland. It is just across the street from the train and bus station and therefore very convenient for the traveler without a car. As I walk along the river I saw many mute swans and enjoyed the peaceful waterfront on my way to the castle (King John’s Castle). The castle was closed so I visited a couple antique shops. I found one to my liking (the owner had a wonderful accent) and bought a pair of Victorian tea cups and saucers for my mom. I think they are simply beautiful and charming… now I just have to figure out how to get them home. :)

I did a little day trip to Adare which is said to be the most charming village in Ireland. Honestly, it is really quite charming. I went on the castle tour and our group was only me, the tour guide and a lady from Missouri. It was awesome to have such a small group. The guide was awesome and knew so much and had a wonderfully Irish accent. The highlights of Adare were: The thatch roofed cottages, the city park, and the castle. I would highly recommend Adare to anyone looking for a nice morning or afternoon.

Adare is self proclaimed as "Ireland's Prettiest Village"

Castle in Adare Ireland

Riverwalk over looking the river Shannon and King John's Castle

Mute Swan and John's Castle - Limerick Ireland

Dublin Ireland

2009-07-03T20:20:00.009-06:00

One of my new countries this year is Ireland. My trip here of course starts in Dublin. I'm staying in a great old town house. It has a wonderful reading room with old leather furniture. It is fun to hear the Irish accent and the traditional Irish breakfast is a must to stay the day out right. I'm including a few random pictures from Dublin. On the right you'll see St. Patrick's Cathedral. I also enjoyed Trinity College, the architecture of the city and walking along the river. I hope you enjoy.

Nine Doors in Dublin

Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland

A sphere within a sphere on Trinity's Campus

Dublin, Ireland

Half Penny Bridge - Dublin, Ireland

Toledo Spain

2009-07-01T00:58:00.002-06:00

I decided to do a little day trip from Madrid and Toledo is one of the best options for day tripping. It also happened to be during the Corpus Cristi celebrations. In all fairness, Toledo deserves more than a day trip. It is such a great city to explore and it has several architectonic gems. I hope you enjoy these pictures from Toledo, La Mancha, Spain. The picture to the right is of one of the atlar pieces in the cathedral; in all its baroque glory.

Welcome to Toledo! - View from main gate

Banners on balconies in Toledo, Spain

Cathedral in Toledo, Spain

My favorite window and ceiling in the Cathedral in Toledo, Spain

Chairs waiting for the Corpus Cristi procession

Museum in Toledo with view of the Castle in the background

Street in Toledo, Spain

Supra - busing in style and comfort

2009-06-29T06:37:00.004-06:00

I'm blogging while in a bus going to Madrid! I love the 21st century! :) I don't have any pictures to share, but the view is very pretty traveling through Northern Spain. Wish you were here to see it with me.

Oviedo at night

2009-06-29T01:31:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite things to do is to walk around Oviedo at night with my camera. Here are a couple new pictures of Oviedo at night. Let me know what you think.

Noche de San Juan - Oviedo Spain

Cathedral - Oviedo Spain

Plaza de la Constitucion with La Iglesia de San Isidoro

From the Mercado looking towards San Isidoro

Oviedo Spain - Noche de San Juan

2009-06-27T16:49:00.000-06:00

Oviedo - This is the third summer that I've spent in Oviedo. It is beginning to feel very much like home. One of my favorite celebrations here is La Noche de San Juan. It has some wonderful Celtic roots and I find it very interesting with its bonfires, mythical creatures, changing of the seasons, nature worship, dancing and new beginnings. It also seems to be a great night for photography. Here are a few pictures I took that night. It is rare to get so many pictures I really like all in one night. I hope you enjoy.

La Gorda - Oviedo, Spain

Parque San Francisco - Oviedo, Spain

Statue in Parque San Francisco - Oviedo, Spain

Noche de San Juan in Oviedo Spain

Santillana del Mar - Comillas

2009-06-26T16:50:00.016-06:00

As far as medieval charm goes you can't get much better than Santillana del Mar in Northern Spain. It is just such a charming village with an incredibly large quantity of old buildings, houses, shops and religious structures. A couple highlights are: the flower boxes on the balconies and windows (Charming!), the covered alley ways and cob stone streets (Charming!), and of course the Torture Museum (Charming! Ok so it really isn't so charming, but the suit of armor in front of the museum is pretty cool.)

Medieval Alleyway - Santillana del Mar

Armor at the entrance to the torture museum

Palacio de Sobrellano - Comilla, Spain

The Sea

2009-05-26T16:48:00.000-06:00

The northern coast of Spain has some wonderful spots. There are lots of beautiful nature rocky beaches. There are charming sandy beaches. There are quite beaches, busy beaches, rainy and sunny beaches. Here are two places (among many worthy places) worth visiting. Cabo de Peñas (to the right) is one of the northern most points of the region of Asturias Spain. Llanes is a pleasant seaport town and I really like the Cubos de la memoria a collection of massive painted cement blocks.
Cubos de la memoria - Llanes Spain

Cubos de la memoria - Llanes Spain

Cabo de Peñas

Leon

2009-05-24T08:00:00.001-06:00

One of the best cathedrals in Spain is in Leon. It is massive, beautiful and has some of the best stained glass outside of France. Here are a few pictures I took this year in Leon.

Cathedral of Leon

Stained Glass in the Cathedral of Leon

Tomb in the Cathedral of Leon

Stained Glass in the Cathedral of Leon

Cathedral of Leon

Stained Glass in the Cathedral of Leon

Interior of the Cathedral in Leon

Statue of Gaudi in front of his La Casa de los Botones - Leon, Spain

Casa de los botones - Leon

Santo Domingo de Silos

2009-05-23T16:45:00.003-06:00

Santo Domingo de Silos

Spanish Countryside near Burgos

Santo Domingo de Silos

Peñaranda

Puente Reina

Burgos

2009-05-23T07:58:00.001-06:00

Burgos – Spain has so many wonderful cathedrals and churches. One of my favorites is the Cathedral in Burgos. The first time I went to Burgos (2004) they were finishing cleaning the exterior of the cathedral. I had seen pictures of the cathedral before the cleaning and it had 700 years of dirty and pollution from top to bottom. After the restoration the Cathedral looks at beautiful as it did the day they finished it. There are two other things that interest me about the Cathedral. First, El Cid is buried here. Ever since I read the epic poem about El Cid I have been interested in his history (both the legends and the reality). His tomb is in the floor under the main cupola. (see photo below) Basically, He and his wife, who is buried next to him, have a wonderful view to look at forever and ever. The second thing that interests me is the Cathedral’s collection of art, artifacts and books. They actually have one of the best collections of Don Quixote de La Mancha in all of Spain (it was donated by a wealthy family when the family’s patriarch died). It would be fun to see what treasures they have stored away in the hidden recesses of the cathedral.

Cathedral of Burgos

Cathedral of Burgos - Cupola above El Cid's tomb

Cathedral of Burgos

Lower Claustro - Cathedral of Burgos

Painting by one of Da Vinci's students

Hondarribia Spain

2009-05-22T07:52:00.000-06:00

Honarribia is a beautiful little fishing village. It is across the river and bay from France. We enjoyed some great Basque food and an evening stroll around town and along the waterfront. Here are a few pictures. I hope you enjoy them. To the right is one of the typical buildings in the "downtown" area. Below are pictures of the river and port.

Hondarribia Spain

Hondarribia Spain

Hondarribia Spain

An interesting building in Hondarribia

País Vasco - Basque Country

2009-05-22T07:00:00.011-06:00

After spending the first week or so staying in city centers, I thought it would be a fun surprise to stay in a rural bed and breakfast in Basque Country. The house, Arotz-Enea, was built in the early 1500’s. It is nestled in the foothills near Hondarribia and the Cantabrian Sea. After being in the city for so long the beauty and peacefulness of the house and landscape was very impressive. Everything was fresh, cool and wholesome. The rooms were simply charming and it was an intriguing experience sleeping in a house that is about 500 years old. In the morning we had breakfast in the “new part” of the house. The “new part” was built in the 1640’s!

Arotz-Enea

Window in my room - Basque Country, Spain

My room in the 500 year old bed and breakfast

Alhambra

2009-05-21T07:00:00.011-06:00

The Alhambra in Granada has to be without a doubt one of my favorite places in the world. There is a saying that basically says that there is nothing more terrible than being blind in Granada and I would add especially in the Alhambra. Honestly, it would be hard to put into world the wonders that await the traveler... I'm just going to let the pictures speak for themselves.

"Dale limosna, mujer, que no hay en la vida nada como la pena de ser ciego en Granada"

Alhambra - Granada, Spain

Looking into the Patio de los Leones - Alhambra - Granada, Spain

Alhambra - Granada, Spain

Tiles in the Alhambra - Granada, Spain

Palacio de Carlos V- Alhambra - Granada, Spain

Detail of the beautiful woodworking they do in Granada, Spain

Alhambra - Granada, Spain

Flowers in Granada

2009-05-21T05:15:00.001-06:00

The roses in Granada were simply amazing this year. The variety was awesome. The quantity was incredible. The beauty was divine. The pictures hardly do the flowers and gardens justice. I'm only including two photos. The one above is of some of my favorite roses in the Alhambra. The flowers were so big and full (and smelled nice too). In the picture below, I narrowed all the roses down to the top 12. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did. (Let me know if you want to see the full version of the roses below) Top 12 Roses from the Alhambra - May 2009

Granada's Cathedral

2009-05-20T07:00:00.007-06:00

There are several places that I really like in Granada. One of them is the cathedral. The interior is very impressive. The shear size and scale of it forces you into an awed state where you can't help yourself from walking around with your head looking towards heaven and gazing at the ceiling, columns, windows, arches, etc. etc. It makes for a nice change from darker and more gloomy churches. Try to visit when the choir is practicing... it is worth. :)

Granada's Cathedral

Granada's Cathedral

The Alhambra as seen from San Nicolas - Granada, Spain

Marbella

2009-05-19T06:59:00.000-06:00

Marbella (Beautiful Sea in Spanish) was a small quite town on the coast a couple decades ago. Now it has grown bigger and richer, but in many places it still has the same charm as it did years ago. The rich and famous like to park their million dollar yachts here. Those of us of more humble means like to park our rental cars here. :)

We had a great time walking along the beach in the afternoon and then again around sunset. There is something very appealing about the Mediterranean; the air, the life, the water, etc. We didn’t spend all our time on the beach though. Marbella has a very nice, compact, old part of town with narrow streets, beautiful flowers, fancy shops and old churches (not to mention the remains of a castle). In one of the many little plazas, we found a shop that had chocolate con churros. For those of you who have never had chocolate con churros it is hard to describe how nice it is to sit in a flower scented plaza, with lovely Spanish noise all around, after having walked the beaches, as the evening light starts filling the sky, and to sit down with your follow travel companions and enjoy a massive platter of churros dipped in thick creamy Spanish chocolate and know that live is good in Marbella. If you ever want to do experience this just let me know… I’ll be happy to tag along. :)

Sand Castle in Marbella, Spain

Beach in Marbella

La Villa Marbella - There are so many beautiful white houses with colorful flowers...

Marbella, Spain

Gibraltar

2009-05-18T06:59:00.000-06:00

We drove down to Gibraltar for the morning and lunchtime. It is a little piece of the old British Empire dangling at the bottom of the Iberian Penisula. It offers more fish and chips then you could stomach in a lifetime. Honestly though, I didn't have fish and chips. I had some yummy shepherd's pie with veg. The main thing I like about Gib (as the locales call it) is how close it is to Africa. You can see Morocco just across the straight. It was a little misty over there as if it were an enchanted landing full of adventure, magic and excitment... (Right: The Rock of Gibraltar)

View from the Rock of Gibraltar looking over the straight towards Africa... Can you hear it call?

Almodovar del Rio

2009-05-17T12:28:00.014-06:00

I really enjoy a good castle and Almodovar del Rio has a great one. The oldest parts of Almodovar Castle date back to the time of the Moorish kingdoms of Andalucía (most likely 8th century). It saw its fair share of battles and changed hands several times. It even saw some action in the 1930’s during the Spanish Civil war; at the time it was already over a thousand years old! At the turn of the 20th century, the castle’s owner, the Count of Torralba, started extensive restorations of the castle. It is thanks to him that the castle is in the condition it is in today. I’ve always wanted to build my own castle and I think the Count of Torralba did a great job deciding what to change and what to keep. It is now on my list of my favorite top ten castles in Spain. If you are in Cordoba you really should take the time to visit the Castillo de Almodóvar del Rio.

Almodovar Castle

One of the many gates in Almodovar Castle

A Knight in Almodovar Castle

Butterfly Battlements - Almodovar Castle

Almodovar Castle

Cordoba - Mezquita and Patios

2009-05-16T22:58:00.010-06:00

Cordoba has a long and varied history. The Romans were here. The Moors made it their capital. The Christians re-conquered it. The experienced traveler still marvels at its wonders. In the 10th century, when London and Paris were still dirty little villages, Cordoba had running water, palaces, universities, religious tolerance, and streets lined with gas lamps. It was the capital of the Umayyad dynasty whose greatest remaining work is without a doubt La Mezquita (the mosque). The building has seen a lot of history. It was first a Visigoth church and then in the 8th century it was “converted” (LOL) into a mosque. It had its heyday in the 10-12th centuries and the later in the 13th century it was “converted” back to a Christian church. It is definitely an awesome place even if in the 16th century they built a large renaissance cathedral in the middle of what was a massive forest of pillars and arches. Though, more likely than not being “converted” into a cathedral may have saved the building from the fiery and unforgiving forces of the Spanish Inquisition. No matter what way you look at it, La Mezquita is an impressive building.

Since we are in Cordoba during the Patio Festival the city is very crowded. If you get a chance to visit La Mezquita try going in the early afternoon when all the large groups are eating lunch. The place is big enough to hold thousands of people, but it is oh so sweet when you get lost in the forest of columns and arches and have to stay there in the sweet coolness and think about the glories of ages past.

La Mezquita - Cordoba

La Mezquita - There is nothing quite like it in the world

La Mezquita - Cordoba

The Choir in the Cathedral/Mezquita - Cordoba

La Mezquita - Cordoba

The Cathedral that was built in the middle of the Mosque

Cordoba - Festival de los Patios 2009

2009-05-16T19:58:00.001-06:00

Due to the timing of our trip to southern Spain, we were able to be in Cordoba for their Spring celebration and the Festival de los Patios. During the festival 100’s of families open their patios for 1000’s of people to see. Each patio is different and the families take great pride in having the best patio in the neighborhood. If you are near Cordoba in May, it is worth braving the crowd to get a peek at the beautiful hearts of these charming old houses; truly a sanctuary and oasis for the people who live in Cordoba. (Even if you aren’t here in May many houses keep their front gate open so you can get a glimpse of their patios.)

Patio - Cordoba

Patio - Cordoba

Cordoban Ceramics

Pink Flowers in Cordoba

La Mancha - Tierra de Don Quijote

2009-05-16T10:45:00.007-06:00

La Mancha is possibly one of the most famous literary lands in Spain and yet, apart from Toledo, it is one of the least visited. That of course is part of the charm and intrigue of La Mancha, to be out in the countryside, to be out there with the people who work the land, to see the patchwork of fields and farms, to be in the land where Don Quixote had many of his adventures, to be in La Mancha. Obviously, windmills are infamous in La Mancha and one of the best places to see some is the city of Consuegra (which also has a castle). The windmills in Consuegra are on top of a very large hill (with the castle on one end) that overlooks the city and surrounding countryside. They have been restored and make for some fun photography and daydreaming. (Window looking out of one of the windmills in Consuegra - upper right)

In a village of La Mancha, the name of which I have no desire tocall to mind, there lived not long since one of those gentlemen thatkeep a lance in the lance-rack, an old buckler, a lean hack, and agreyhound for coursing...

17th Century Windmills

21st Century Windmills

Aranjuez Palace

2009-05-15T10:44:00.007-06:00

Aranjuez is a lovely palace south of Madrid. It is one of my favorites and I’ve been here several times. I really wanted to show my parents this palace and so it was the first stop on our road trip. All the other times I’ve been there it has been during the week and there have been very few other visitors. This time we visited on a holiday and a Friday. Basically, we had to share the palace a little bit. :) It was still as charming as ever.

Palace of Aranjuez - Rose garden

Aranjuez - Spain

Segovia

2009-05-14T10:41:00.007-06:00

I wanted to take my parents to Segovia for a couple reasons. One is the aqueduct that any mechanically or architecturally minded person would marvel at. Another is the castle (to the right) where Lancelot sang C’est Mio in the 1967 musical Camelot; of course the castle is supposed to be in France, but it isn’t and the one they used as Camelot is also in Spain. I wanted to show my mom, who likes that musical, the battlements where he sang the song. Oh and besides that, the castle has a few other “small” historical stories dealing with little known people like Columbus and Ferdinand and Isabel… but that was a long time ago… ;)

I wanted to go to the Iglesia de la Veracruz again, but we didn’t have time. I highly recommend you go there if you can. It is one of the coolest Knights Templar churches I’ve ever seen.

P.S. You should know I am actually interested in all levels of history (even the year 1492) and the fact that the castle has seen so much history is important to me and intrigues me.

Aqueduct - Segovia

Iglesia San Millan - Segovia

Detail inside the Castle of Segovia - Armchair with inlaid wood and ivory, tiles and tapestry

Inside the Castle of Segovia

Detail of a mounted knight in amour

Plaza Juan Bravo - Segovia

Near Madrid - Manzanares y El Escorial

2009-05-13T16:41:00.009-06:00

While in Madrid, we spent some time with various friends. One afternoon, a friend of the family and her husband took us to the Escorial and Manzanares (to the right). I've been to the Escorial a couple times, but it was nice to be there with some locals. I absolutely love the library there. Unfortunately, they won’t let you take pictures anymore. I’m adding one I took a couple years ago so that you can have an idea of how beautiful the library really is.

After the visit to the Escorial we went to Manzanares. The Castle was closed, but still very impressive from the outside. We went to a café and enjoyed various kinds of ham and pork and then headed back to Madrid. We ate at El Buey near el Buen Retiro and really enjoyed it. They bring you an extremely hot plate and you cooked your own meat on the plate. Yummy!

Manzanares Castle

El Escorial

Library in El Escorial (taken by me in 2007)

Madrid

2009-05-12T15:58:00.009-06:00

Madrid was the first city I ever visited in Spain (or Europe for that matter). I have visited here many many many times since that first visit. It is nice to come back to Madrid where things are familiar and where I know a few people. I always stay at the same place and it feels nice to have the same people welcome you back to Spain and get you settled into your room.

The first place I ever visited in Madrid was the Royal Palace. I still remember that morning well with it bright morning light, fresh clean feeling and wonders of a new place. On this trip to Spain, I'll be traveling with my parents. This is their first trip to Spain and I hope that they enjoy Spain as much as I do. The first place I took them after checking in the hotel was the Royal Palace. The first few pictures are of the Palace and of the Almudena Cathedral (right).

Royal Palace in Madrid

Plaza de las armas - Royal Palace

Almudena Cathedral - Madrid

One of my favorite book shops in Madrid
I've spent a lot of time and money here :)

San Jeronimo near El Prado

Parque del Buen Retiro
We went for a night even stroll here before having dinner at El Buey with friends from Madrid

Iglesia de San Manuel y San Benito - Madrid

Adios Utah - Hello España

2009-05-11T16:02:00.007-06:00

Once again it is time to say good-bye to Utah for a while. Every time I leave for a long period I pay more attention to the little things and visit the places I really like. I’m the kind of person who likes to be a home body, but also loves to travel. Sometimes I’m just itching to go somewhere and see something and other times I’m very happy just to be in my own familiar space doing my own familiar things. Here are a few pictures from Salt Lake City, Utah. To the right is a detail of a wreath made from plaster molds of kid’s hands. It is on display in the children’s section of the SLC Library, the lobby of which can be seen below. The picture of the tree branches was taken earlier this year in front of the City County Building. The last one is a view of the mountains from the roof top terrace of the Library.

Salt Lake City Public Library

Trees in front of City County Building

Wastach Mountains - a beautiful back drop to a beautiful city

Portland

2009-04-29T01:56:00.012-06:00

I was in Portland, Oregon, for a very quick visit. So, there isn’t too much to say. But two things happened that I feel are worth mentioning. The first was eating at the Peruvian restaurant Andina. The food made me think about all the fun times I’ve had in Peru. It is interesting how a taste or smell can trigger a memory that you otherwise might not remember.

The other thing that I think is worth mentioning has to do with dogs. I was at a park along the river in Portland when I saw a guy and his Great Dane walk by. It was an impressive animal and they went down to the river and the guy would throw a large branch in the water and the dog would go get it. I’ve thought about getting a dog before and I like Great Danes. So, I enjoyed watching them. It made me think of my nephew and a conversation we had earlier this year. I told him that I was thinking about getting a dog and that I wondered what kind he thought I should get. He got an excited smile on his face and told me I should get a poodle. I wasn’t too excited about that idea and told him that I think a dog should be similar to its master and that I didn’t really consider myself poodle-like. He thought about this for a minute and then exclaimed that I should get, “a weenie dog!” LOL He explained that since I’m tall and long that would be a good dog for me. It still makes me smile thinking about that story and honestly I like weenie dogs too. :)

Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon

Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-22T19:59:00.005-06:00

HAPPY EARTH DAY!

I hope we all take a moment to reflect on what the Earth means to us and what it gives us each and everyday. Then, I hope we think about what we give the Earth in return. Are you doing your part to make it a better place?

Leaves near Cascade Springs - Utah

Kentucky Horse Country

2009-04-20T19:44:00.003-06:00

Kentucky Horse Country – I had a hard time finding a hotel close to downtown because of a horse competition that is taking place this same weekend. I can’t complain about the beautiful animals though; there is something appealing about the horse theme that runs throughout Kentucky. There is one park in particular that is dedicated to this equestrian enthusiasm. Here are a few pictures from the Thoroughbred Park in Lexington. (Above and Below: these huge statues are by artist Gwen Reardon. Right: this is a hitching post in front of Ashland Estate)

Neck and neck!

In the middle of the race!

Kentucky in Spring

2009-04-18T12:09:00.007-06:00

Lexington - Having grown up within view of the Rocky Mountains, Kentucky’s landscape is very intriguing to me. A great place to get a feel for the flat, smooth, lineal Kentucky horizon is from the 18th floor of the Patterson Tower on the University of Kentucky campus. I’m in Lexington for the Kentucky Foreign Language Conference (KFLC); it is the largest language conference in the USA. There are people from all over the country here to speak, listen, discuss, and improve. A colleague from the U and I were scheduled to present this morning. We were the first presenters for the day and so we arrive early to get set up. We were all ready to go at 9:00AM when we thought our presentation started, but there was a little problem… No one was there! We started wondering if we were in the wrong place, where the moderator was, where the other presenters were, and if we should just go ahead without anyone. Then, around 9:15 people started showing up and we found out that the session actually started at 9:30. The presentation went well and it ended up being well attended. Lexington is beautiful in springtime here are three pictures of tulips on the UK campus.

Tulips on University of Kentucky Campus

Lexington KY

2009-04-17T12:06:00.000-06:00

Historic Lexington – There are two houses in Lexington that I’m very interested in. The first is the Mary Todd Lincoln House. This is the house where Abraham Lincoln’s wife, Mary, lived before they were married. It is an interesting place to visit as it has many items owned and used by both the Todds and the Lincolns. The house is a great example of the hard work, dedication, and love that goes into restoring and maintaining historic houses across the country. One of the best parts of any visit to a historic home is all the fun things that tour guides tell you about the house and the people connected to it. One story they shared that I enjoyed was about when Lincoln first met Mary, his future wife. They were at a dance and Lincoln approached Mary and said, “Ms. Todd I would like to dance with you in the worst way” and then he evidently did dance with her in the “worst way”. Good thing he was a better president than he was dancer.

The other house that I find interesting is Henry Clay’s Ashland Estate. I’m posting a few pictures from Ashland and hope you enjoy them.

The Mary Todd Lincoln House - This combination of windows, angles, and shadows intrigues me

Henry Clay's Ashland Estate

Ashland Park, Lexington KY

Church in Lexington

Frankfort KY

2009-04-16T12:08:00.000-06:00

Frankfort Kentucky – I flew in and out of Louisville (which the locals pronounce as Lullvull) and drove to Lexington. The capitol of Kentucky, Frankfort, is between Louisville and Lexington. I decided to stop in for a visit and to take some pictures. I love architecture and Frankfort has its fair share. It has a nice gritty historic downtown, a gorgeous governor’s mansion, several grand old neighborhoods, a giant capitol building, a great frank Lloyd Wright house and a generous amount of flowers and trees to add that splash of springtime. Here are a few pictures. I hope you enjoy. (To the right: Good Shepard Church and the Old Paul Sawyier Library)

Downtown shops in Frankfort Kentucky. It makes me smile to see small the barber shop squeezed in there.

Blossoms - I love the different layers of blossom that I found on the Capitol grounds

This photo is nice because of the roof of branches on top, the wall of and window of blossoms and the green carpet that rolls out into the distance

Capitol Building in Frankfort Kentucky

Dallas, Texas

2009-04-06T00:06:00.005-06:00

Dallas Texas - I didn't have as much time as I would have liked in Dallas, but what time I did have I used seeing the city, exploring, and of course taking pictures. Here are a few that I like. I hope you like them too. :)

Sculpture in the Art District of Dallas - I like the lighting, shadows, and different materials and textures in this photograph.

Bank of America Plaza - Dallas Texas

Main Street - Dallas Texas

Thanksgiving Square - Dallas Texas

Chapel at Thanksgiving Square - It was even better in person, if you can believe that. :)

Dallas Texas - longhorn cattle

2009-04-04T00:26:00.005-06:00

Dallas, Texas - I had heard about this statue (or rather this group of 40+ statues) of a longhorn cattle drive and I had to check it out for myself. It is in Pioneer Park, near the old cemetery and starts at the top of the hill and goes down a path over a river and to the edge of the park. It really is hard to describe how cool and fun this work of art is. You can walk around it, touch it and feel it. There are three mounted cowboy statues that keep the stare cattle from leaving the group. Each longhorn is unique and some even seem to be smiling (just like the people who are enjoying this impressive site). My photographs don’t do Robert Summers’ artist work justice, but hopefully you’ll enjoy them and if you are ever in Dallas you should stop by for a little cattle rustling.

Cowboy on a hill over looking the longhorn cattle drive and downtown Dallas

Detail of one of the cowboy statues in Pioneer Park

Cowboy racing after the stray cattle

Cowboy on horse

The longhorn cattle drive (sculptures by Robert Summers)

Denton, Texas

2009-04-03T00:05:00.008-06:00

After my painfully long trip from Salt Lake City to Texas, I was pleasantly surprised with Denton. I spoke at the University of North Texas in the morning and spent the afternoon talking with people at the workshop. Then in the evening we went to El Gaupo's mexican restaurant and ate some good food. We also walked around Denton Square which is the heart of the historic downtown area. Its a charming place with losts of interesting shops, art, and buildings. I took a few pictures, enjoyed the pleasant weather, and then headed back to my hotel because I was feeling the effects of only three hours of sleep on the red-eye flight to Atlanta. On the way back to the hotel, we passed through some neighborhoods that were full of beautiful old houses. It would be nice to have an old place like that to fix up some day. Overall I liked Denton and think I might go back there someday. (Upper Right: Old Courthouse on Denton Square)

Lights on the square

I really liked this sculpture by David Iles called "November Devil"

"November Devil" sculpture by David Iles

Spending all day at SLC International

2009-04-02T00:05:00.004-06:00

As you many of you already know, I like to travel. I enjoy the rush of packing up and going someplace new. I like watching people at the airport. I love the feeling as the jets kick in and the plane is pushed into the wide open sky. In general, I just enjoy everything about travel. Today was a day that made me wonder why…

I arrived at the Salt Lake City International Airport around 8:30am and soon learned my flight was delayed 30 minutes. I was fine with that; it would give me more time to get through security, grab something to eat, and maybe surf the internet before the flight. When I got to security I was pleasantly surprised to see that there wasn’t even a line. It was looking like it was going to be a good travel day… boy was I wrong.

After waiting the extra 30 minutes for the delay we boarded the plane and got settled in for a direct flight to Dallas. We sat on the runway for about 30 minutes and then they announced that we were being delay for another 3 hours! The reason? Strong winds in Dallas. They took us back to the terminal and we all got off the plane. Within an hour, they had cancelled the flight completely. So, now there were 60 people all trying to get to Dallas (or other places) all at the same time and only two more flight scheduled for that day.

Long story short, after being on standby for two more flights and not getting one either, I finally got a spot on the red-eye flight to Atlanta with connection to Dallas. It left SLC at 12:50am. I couldn’t stand being in the airport any more that day (9 hours and counting), so I called a friend and you went out for dinner and I was back in time to catch the night flight.

The red-eye flight to Atlanta was only three hours, but I slept through the whole thing. I was on the last row by the window, so I was literally the last passenger to get off the plane. I had just enough time to catch my connecting flight to Dallas. I arrived at 8:53am in Dallas and my presentation started at 11:00am in Denton. I ended up taking a taxi to Denton (35 minutes) and arrived right when the presentation before me was starting. I changed in the bathroom and listened to the end of the presentation and then I presented. It went very well (maybe better than if I had had a full night’s sleep) and everyone was glad I had made it. I still love to travel and see new places. I still enjoy people watching and that feeling when the jet FINALLY leaves the ground… and yet I think I like it most of all when everything runs smoothly and you can just sit back and enjoy the ride. :)

Tempe, AZ - Desert Oasias and Desert Nights

2009-03-21T21:27:00.003-06:00

Papagos Park in Tempe Arizona

There is something intriguing about the desert. One of my favorite things about it is the feeling as the sun sets and the wind picks up with a refreshing warm breeze. The desert night is so warm and so alive. It is a wonderful setting for a nice evening stroll (with camera in hand). Since I was staying in Tempe, I was naturally drawn to the water front of the Salt River and Town Lake with all the bridges, paths and parks it was a great place to spend an evening. I hope you enjoy the pictures and can imagine the warmth of the desert night. :)

Town Lake in Tempe AZ

Mill Avenue Bridge at Night

Walk along Tempe's Town Lake

Hayden's Ferry at Night

Arizona State University

2009-03-20T20:55:00.014-06:00

Tempe Arizona - I was in Arizona over the weekend for a conference at Arizona State University. A colleague and I presented and had a great turn out. It was nice to do some networking with people from all over the country. We also had a very important and profitable dinner meeting at the House of Tricks. I think this trip and the meeting will be one of those career-defining moments. :)

I think it is time to continue to EXPLORE and grow... it is time to lay claim to destiny. I think the first picture in this entry is cool and inspiring. I love how the word is reflected in the glass and that if you are truly going to “explore” anything you need to be thoughtfully observant while at the same time passionate and excited. (I hope you enjoy these pictures from ASU - picture above to the right is a detailed view of Frank Llyod Wright's Gammage building)

The Coor Building on ASU Campus - I like the reflection in the glass on this building

Gammage Auditorium by Frank Lloyd Wrigth (ASU Campus)

Hayden Library (ASU)

“Spirit” (Artist, Buck McCain)

Philadelphia a Historic City

2009-02-22T17:16:00.000-07:00

Philadelphia is a great place for anyone interested in US history. This was my second visit to Philadelphia and once again I was drawn to the historical buildings, especially Independence Hall. Where else can you stand where our country was, quite literally, created? Thinking about the Declaration of Independency and the Constitution reminds me of two “literary” works; Miracle at Philadelphia and the Broadway musical 1776. I read Miracle at Philadelphia when I was taking a US history class. It was a good read and I enjoyed it. The musical 1776 is one of my favorites. I’ve always been interested in the people who helped form our country and the musical is an enjoyable way to look at these people with a lively and human twist. I only spent an hour or so at the hall and would love to spend more time enjoying the history, finding the perfect picture, thinking about the past, and contemplating the future. (Right - Independence Hall)

Assembly Room - Independence Hall

Assembly Room - Independence Hall

Detail in Independence Hall

Stair to attic in Independence Hall

Detail in Independence Hall

City Hall - Philadelphia

Library Hall - The first public library (1789). The building in my photograph was built in the 20th century based on the 18th century building. Unfortunately it was closed when I was there... You know I like a good library. :)

Chilly in Philly

2009-02-21T16:50:00.012-07:00

Friday night I had the pleasure to go for a walk around town with my brother-in-law's sister. She lives in Philadelphia and had some great things to tell me and show me. It was nice to have someone just to walk around with and talk about this and that. Here are some night pictures that I took. Oh, and it was pretty Chilly in Philly that night. (Above picture - Near the Old Philadelphia Exchange and City Tavern)

Old Cemetry

Second Bank of the United States

"The Signer" a statue by Evangelos Frudakis

Philadelphia - City of Brotherly Love

2009-02-19T19:04:00.026-07:00

I'm in Philadelphia for a few days. I'm speaking at two workshops here in town. It is nice to be back; last time we stopped in Philadelphia it was too short of a visit. :) My hotel is at Penn's Landing and my room has great views of the Ben Franklin Bridge and the city (you can even see Independence Hall from my windows). After getting settled in I went for a little walk past some of the historic buildings. It was very cold though so I didn't stay out very long. My main destination was Independence Hall (picture to the right). I think this is a very cool building; it was here that the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated, created, drafted and signed. Right across the street is the building that houses the Liberty Bell; it is arranged in such a way that you can see the bell from outside as well as inside (see last picture).

Philadelphia from my hotel window

Ben Franklin Bridge from my hotel window

Liberty Bell

Presidents' Day

2009-02-16T21:05:00.002-07:00

I took this picture in honor of Presidents' Day and Lincoln's 200th Birthday. It is a very large bust of Lincoln that sits in the Utah State Capitol Building.

Fillmore and Cove Fort

2009-01-06T16:08:00.011-07:00

On the way back to Salt Lake City we stopped at a couple historical places. We stopped at Cove Fort which was built in the 1860's and is a charming place. We stopped in Fillmore as well. It was the territorial capitol of Utah for a while. I like the basement (to the right). They have portraits of people who used to live in or around Fillmore; it was a striking place with the stone foundation walls, the pipes and the black and photographs.

Old State House - Fillmore, Utah

Hinckley family log cabin - Cove Fort, Utah

The inside of Cove Fort; twelve rooms, twelve fireplaces, toilets out back - Cove Fort, Utah

Hoover Dam and Italian Gelato

2009-01-02T23:47:00.013-07:00

The Hoover Dam is not far from Las Vegas. We decided to drive out there and check it out. The dam was completed in 1935 and has some great Art Deco details (like the statute to the right). The dam serves for many things. It supplies electricity and water for the surrounding area. It provides space for water activities. It is a tourist attraction and it is one of the major routes from Nevada to Arizona. The traffic was backed up at least 6 miles; there is only one lane each way going across the dam. They are currently building a bridge just south of the dam. It looks like it will be a very cool bridge. They have both ends finished and have started the huge arch! It is fun to see them working on it. I'm sure it will have a great view of the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Colorado River.

The Hoover Dam

On the way back to Las Vegas the idea of a treat came into mind... GELATO! And what better place to get Gelato then Venice? In our case, being in the middle of the desert and not in Italy, we had to settle with going to the Venetian on the Strip. The price was a little high, but the selection was very good. It was so hard to choose that I ended up with three flavors. The first was a kind I had never tried, Pumpkin. It was really good and summoned memories of Thanksgiving. The other two are two of my favorite and great together, Hazel Nut and Pistachio. After being in Italy I fell in love with those two favors, but I that combination doesn't always make me think of Italy. More often it makes me think of Barcelona and a pleasant warm evening walking through the park while eating some of the best gelato ever! :)

The Venetian - Las Vegas, Nevada

Ghost Town! - Grafton, Utah

2009-01-01T23:33:00.010-07:00

Grafton, Utah - Along the banks of the Virgin River, just outside of Zion National Park, down a long muddy dirt road, you'll find the remains of the town of Grafton Utah. It was founded in the 1860's in an attempt to grow cotton in Utah's Dixie. The town was literally washed away only a few years after it was founded. The people of Grafton moved upstream a couple miles to where the remains of town are found today. By the early 20th century the town was abandoned and became a ghost town. It is an interesting experience visiting a ghost town. It makes one think about why we build things and why we abandon things. It shows that some things last much longer than the people who build them and yet much of what we hold dear is actually very fleeting and fragile.

Reflection in Grafton, Utah - Ghost Town

Grafton, Utah - The Ghost Town
(I love the ghostly shadows and clouds in this photograph)

Happy New Years!!! 2009

2009-01-01T11:59:00.026-07:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! This year I was in Las Vegas for New Years Eve. After walking around, seeing the sites, and people watching, we stood in front of the fountains at Bellagio. This is by far my favorite place in Vegas. One of my first Spring Break trips was to Vegas and the fountains are as amazing now as they were then. The fountains are set to music and are a simple and refreshing form of entertainment. I love watching people's reactions to the fountains. Looking around at the other people was like looking into the humantity; there were people of all shapes, sizes, colors, nationalities, backgrounds, social positions, etc. There were people singing to the music, dancing, laughing, smiling, and watching with wide eyes. The song doesn't last more than a couple of minutes, but during that time life is good and humantity is happy. I hope that 2009 brings more happiness to humantity and that we can stop and see the beautiful things around us... and that we don't forget that humantity is one of the most beautiful things around us... HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Fountains at Bellagio - My favorite spot in Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas Boulevard

Las Vegas, Nevada

Happy New Years! 2009!

My Family Cabin in the Unitahs

2008-11-01T22:45:00.012-06:00

We went to my family cabin today to close it up for the winter. We have to do this every year so the pipes do freeze, windows don't get buried and broken in the snow and to do some light cleaning. I had not been to the cabin this year... So, I was very happy to be up there for a bit. It is a very pleasant place to be; full of beauty and childhood memories. Most of the colorful leaves were gone, but the willows have changed to beautiful reds, ambers, yellows, rusts and purples. I'm afraid the lighting wasn't the greatest, but I did manage to get a few good shots. I hope you enjoy them. (The picture to the right is from the river bottoms looking east at Gravel Mountain.)

The Weber River

The Willows

Tree below the cabin

The Weber River

Gravel Mountain - I love the sky in this picture.

The Weber River

Atlanta, Georgia - World Languages Presentation

2008-10-18T22:10:00.012-06:00

I went to Atlanta, Georgia, for a presentation I gave and was there for the last few days of Fall Break. The presentation went well and there were some important people from several important southern universities there. I've flown through Atlanta a lot, but this was the first time for me to actually stay in town for a few days. I was busy during the day, but was able to go out a bit at night. An old buddy of mine from USU works in GA now and so we hangout a little and luckily he was fine with me taking a lot of pictures. :) A few of my favor things were the Magaret Mitchell House (She wrote Gone with the Wind), the High Museum, the Midtown skyline, the Thai food, and have a little time to unwind. Here are some pictures of the highlights from the beautiful Atlanta.

The High Museum of Art - Atlanta Georgia

These three pictures are of an awesome statue outside the High Museum. The larger figure is made up of smaller figures that look like the little wooden figures artists use. It looks incredible at night with the lighting. Hope you enjoy!

Statue outside the High Museum

Statues ouside the High Museum

Midtown Atlanta, GA

Port Angeles, Washington

2008-10-15T22:19:00.000-06:00

My sister and her family just moved to Port Angeles, WA. It is a nice little city that is very close to some amazing natural beauty. This was our home base during Fall Break as we explored and had a great time. Apart from the great picture oportunities, I really enjoyed hanging out with my sister and brother-in-law and playing with my adorable nephews. The three pictures I'm posting are on the water front in/near Port Angeles. It was a beautiful morning and the lighting was incredible.

Port Angeles, Washington - The Docks

The morning mist hanging over Port Angeles

Out on the boat look back toward Port Angeles

Canada! Victoria, British Columbia

2008-10-13T17:05:00.026-06:00

Today is Thanksgiving Day in Canada. We took the ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria (British Columbia). As we walked out of the customs house, we were greeted by three ladies all dressed up in Victorian clothing. They welcomed us the Victoria wished us a Happy Thanksgiving and even gave us some treats. It was a nice welcoming party and made me think about what kind of welcome people receive when they visit the USA. I also think it is fitting that they were wearing Victorian dresses, and that we were in Victoria, and that we soon found a statue of Queen Victoria in front of the Parliament Building. (See photo to the right)

The British Columbia Parliament Building is very stately with its copper domes and impressive stonework. It was built in 1893 and was designed by Francis Rattenbury who was only 25 years old at the time. There are totem poles that tower above the grounds and not far away there is another kind of tower… We here it before we saw it… The Netherlands Centennial Carillon (see last photo) was built in the 1960’s and has 62 bells.

British Columbia Parliament Building - Victoria

Parliament Building with Totem Pole

Netherlands Centennial Carillon (Bell Tower) - Victoria, British Columbia

***

One of my favorite spots in Victoria is Beacon Hill. It is a huge park on a hill. It gets its name from the beacons that shine out to sea. It is a photographer’s and walker’s paradise. It also has a pretty cool play ground. I’m including a couple of my favorite pictures. You’ll notice that they all have a common theme which is leaves and water. They say a picture is worth a thousand words so I’m going to let these three do the talking. Hope you enjoy!

Beacon Hill Park - Duck Pond

Waterfall - Beacon Hill

Rain Drops on Leaves - Beacon Hill Park

Rialto Beach - Sharing the view...

2008-10-11T22:11:00.005-06:00

Rialto Beach Olympic National Park – One of the most enchanting parts of the Pacific Coast is found in the North. It isn’t the beautiful white sand sunny surfing beach that you get in the South and it may be hard to get a good tan there, but it is an enchanting place where nature has more say over what happens than man does. Rialto Beach is a wild place where massive woods meet the endless sea. The weather and the sea literally roll by as you walk the pebbled beaches, explore the tide pools and gaze at the soaked sea stacks. After a great day at Rialto Beach I was sitting on top of a log that had to be at least 8 feet in diameter. I was sitting there enjoying the view and letting my mind wandering when I heard a pair of little lungs panting with the effort of climbing onto the log. It was my four year old nephew who was climbing up there to sit with his uncle. :) There is nothing better than a good view and someone special to share it with! Hope you enjoy!

Rialto Beach in Olympic National Park, Washington

Rialto Beach in Olympic National Park, Washington

Rialto Beach in Olympic National Park, Washington

Seattle, Washington

2008-10-10T11:39:00.018-06:00

Fall Break 2008 - This year for Fall Break I decided to head to the Northwest and visit my sister and her family in Port Angeles, WA. I flew into Seattle where I met up with them at the Seattle Public Library. As many of you may know, I like libraries and Seattle has a pretty cool one (see last picture and one on the right). After seeing some of the city, we went to the Woodland Park Zoo. We had a great time there. I have two really adorable nephews that make going to the zoo a very enjoyable experience.

We were lucky to have great weather in Seattle. The evening pictures turned out great. I’m including pictures mainly from Pier 52; that’s where we got the ferry to Bainbridge. The first picture is of the Seattle skyline at night. The next is of the ferry with the sunset which is followed by more sunset. :) The last two were taken during the day. The waterfall is just outside the REI and was very well done; it felt extremely natural. The library was being cleaned. Can you see the guy washing the windows?

Seattle at night

The Bainbridge Ferry

Sunset from Peir 52

Waterfall near the REI and Space Needle

Seattle Public Library - Washington

NYC - MET

2008-09-03T16:33:00.016-06:00

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is amazing. I've been to a few museums in my time and I really enjoyed the MET. About ten years ago we were in NYC on a family vacation and we tried to go to the MET but it was closed. I'm glad that I had the chance to spend a couple hours there on this trip. I'm also glad that they let you take pictures. I hope you enjoy my pictures.

This is a collection of pictures I took at the MET. I hope you enjoy!

This is one of my favorite pictures from the MET - There are a lot of layers going on

I like the lighting on this photo.

The Metropolitan Muesum of Art

New York City - El Quijote and Famous Buildings

2008-08-31T09:36:00.015-06:00

There are some pretty nice restaurants in New York City. The nicest one I've eaten at is El Quijote which is a great Spanish restaurant. As you walk in there is a life sized statue of Don Quixote. They have the Dulcinea Room. All the art has to do with Spain, Cervantes and Don Quixote de la Mancha. The menu has specials named after the Spanish hero. It is quite the place and I think it was worth the price tag to enjoy great Spanish food in a temple dedicated to the Knight of the Woeful Countenance. :)

El Quijote - 23rd Street

****

New York is famous for a lot of things... a few that come to mind are Broadway, Wall Street, cheese cake, taxis and skyscrapers. We have seen two Broadway musicals while here. The first was Young Frankenstein which was very funny. The second was Hairspray which was also very entertaining. I ate cheese cake yesterday and visited Wall Street. As for skyscrapers... Here are a few more pictures of some of the famous buildings in New York Ciy.

St. Patrick's Cathedral - NYC

Chrysler Building
"Until it shines like the top of the Chrysler building!"

Empire State Building

My favorite picture from the NYC trip!

New York City

2008-08-30T07:16:00.010-06:00

NYC - Well, its been 12 years since I was last in New York City. It has been nice to see the city through my "grown up" eyes and to remember what it was like when I was a kid visiting the Big Apple for the first time. It's also nice to compare it to other places I've visited. It's nice to choose what I want to do and see and it's nice to get out there and have some more adventures. :)

Guggenheim Museum - Architect Frank Lloyd Wright

Central Park, NYC

Salt Flats

2008-07-30T22:28:00.007-06:00

Utah has some very interesting geography. The Bonneville Salt Flats are out of this world. It is a huge flat area (159 square miles) next to the Great Salt Lake that is covered in salt deposits left by the lake. It’s makes a great day trip from Salt Lake City and lets you see what the world can be like when Mother Nature is left to work her magic.

Salt Flats, Utah

Salt Flats, Utah - I know it looks like snow, but it is actually salt.

Salt Flats - Western Utah

The Great Salt Lake, Utah

Welcome Home!

2008-07-21T14:41:00.005-06:00

After yet another wonderful European trip, I'm home. As much as I love to travel and see the world, I enjoy being home and just keeping it simple (not to mention save money). It is nice to be back in my cute little house with all my books and things; just relaxing. It is also nice to see friends and family. Utah is a nice place to live and spent your time between travel adventures. It also photographs well. :) This picture is of the welcome-back-to-Utah-sunset from my first night back Home.

Brigham City, Utah

Madrid

2008-07-13T12:06:00.004-06:00

Well all things must come to an end. It has been a great summer in Spain. It is such a charming place. I'm saying good-bye to Spain with these choice pictures of Madrid. I hope you enjoy... If you do please let me know.

Temple of Debod, Madrid

Plaza Mayor, Madrid

Royal Palace, Madrid

Madrid

2008-07-09T16:07:00.019-06:00

Madrid always feels a little like home to me. It was the first place I visited in Europe and I have a pretty good feel for the city and yet there is always something more to discover and enjoy. When I stay in Madrid I stay in the area near the Opera and the Royal Palace. It is a great location and seriously minutes away from everything. The pictures in this entry are from some of my favorite places in Madrid and a few new places that I found while hunting for pictures. The picture to the right is the Metropolis Building. Like many other buildings in Madrid, it is beautifully lighted at night. The next 5 pictures were taken the same night. The last two day-time pictures are taken near the place I stay in Madrid.

Banco Espanol de Credito, Madrid

Near my favorite restaurant, La Finca de Susana

Plaza Mayor

Lights in Madrid

Post Office, Madrid

Plaza de Espana

La Opera, Madrid

Extremadura and Caceres

2008-07-06T09:22:00.019-06:00

Extremadura – I have visited a lot of places in Spain, but until this week I had never visited Extremadura. I have heard a lot about Extremadura and I’m pleased to say that everything I heard was true. It is the land of the conquistadors. It is a hot bed (quite literally in the summer) of historical intrigue and noble rivalry. It is slow to change and in parts has yet to join the 21st century. It is tangible and visible history piled layer on layer; from ancient to not so ancient. It is Extremadura. It is Spain.

Caceres - I was told that I should visit the old part of town while in Caceres. So, I book a hotel right on the Plaza Mayor and had a great view and easy access to all the architectonic gems found in Caceres. Walking in the old part of town is like traveling in time. There are no advertisements, next to no cars, no modern buildings (everything in good sensible long-lasting stone) and it is a charming place to explore with surprises around every corner. I highly recommend a day or two especially for the person with a like imagination and a desire to live in a by gone age. :) The picture to the right is of one of the many fortified houses found in Caceres.

Imposing gothic doors to Santiago

One of the fortified houses in Caceres. This is a city where people literally still live in Castles!

View from my hotel of the "newer" part of Charming Caceres. This part of town is outside the old medieval walls and yet it still has its charm and appeal. (This is a view from the back balcony of the hotel. My room looked over the Plaza Mayor, fyi)

Merida land of Roman Ruins

2008-07-02T14:48:00.027-06:00

Merida, Spain – Back in the day as a reward for their loyalty and success, a group of roman military leaders were given permission to build a new city on the Guadiana River. They built a charming city and modeled it after their beloved capitol, Rome. They called their mini Rome Emerita Augusta and though the name has been modified a little over the years, Merida still is home to many roman sites and the power and vision of the men and women who founded the frontier town can still be seen throughout the city and the area around town.

The Temple of Diana - It was built by the Romans as a temple, converted into a christian church by the Visigoths, fell into ruin during the Moorish occupation and then later a Spanish noble family made additions and called it home (you can see the Spanish villa inside the pillars). It is a VERY cool place.

The Temple of Diana - Merida, Spain

The Temple of Diana - As many of you may know, Diana was the Goddess of the Moon. I thought this was a fitting picture of the moon passing through the pillars of Diana's temple. As I thought about that, I realized that the moon had probably passed through that way a many many times over the past 2,000 years. I was lucky enough to be there this time and have my camera ready. :)

The Roman Theater in Merida

I crossed two bridges while in Merida. The first (to the right) is a modern bridge and was very interesting. It has three paths or roads. There is a middle path for pedistrians and two paths one on each side for the automobiles. The modern bridge spans the river in three sections and is pretty cool to look at. The other bridge is the old Roman Bridge. It only has one path, but about 65 arches span the 600 yard river. I think both bridges are attractive, well-built and they offer a great view of each other. :)

The two bridges one modern one ancient

Mosaic floors in Merida

Mosaic floors en Merida

Zamora and more Madrid

2008-07-01T09:47:00.013-06:00

Zamora – After saying good-bye to Oviedo, I headed south to the city of Zamora which is in Castilla-Leon. Zamora turns out to be a very interesting city, full of historical buildings, modern areas and friendly people. It has retained much of its small town feel. From the pleasant pedestrian center to the castle and churches Zamora is a pleasant, if hot, place to spend a few days. One of the afternoons while I was here I went with some Spanish friends to a country house with a swimming pool. It was a nice way to cool off during the afternoon. Once things cooled off I was excited to explore more of the city and get some night shots of the city. The first two pictures are at the base of the old fortified part of the city. The next three pictures are taken by the river. The last and first (to the right) pictures are of a church I found interesting. Overall Zamora is a pleasant place and very friendly.

Zamora has both natural and man made fortifications to help keep it safe...

...more natural and man made fortifications

View from the old stone bridge looking back towards Zamora

This is the old stone bridge in Zamora

The milling houses on the river. Remember the terrifying experience the Don Quixote and Sancho Panza had one night next to the mills on the river?

I think it is interesting how the butresses on this church span the street and go into the walls of the houses on the other side.

***

I'm back in Madrid. I really enjoy being here. I feel like I'm at home when I'm in Madrid. The people at my hostel are great people and always have a minute to talk about this that and the other. Here are three pictures I took tonight. They range from the royal place to in and around Puerta del Sol.

The Royal Palace at night

Between Puerta del Sol and Gran Via

Just south of Puerta del Sol

European Cup - Spain Wins!

2008-06-29T06:27:00.013-06:00

The build up to the European Cup was intense. We watched as Spain beat Italy in a penalty-kicks shootout in the quarterfinals. Then the victorious Spanish destroyed Russia (3-0) in the semifinals. The final game was tonight Spain versus Germany and Spain won! It has been 44 years since they last won a European title and that meant they really had something to celebrate. After the big games all the fans go to Plaza America in Oviedo to celebrate. It was pretty intense and I'm glad I was here to see it happen.

This is Plaza America in Oviedo after Spain won the 2008 European Cup

Crazy Spanish drivers even more crazy after Spain wins.

A Room of My Own

2008-06-28T03:49:00.007-06:00

While traveling, I've noticed that one really needs to have a little space all to themself. For me, my room in Oviedo is my little place to escape the world and yet have it handy when I need it. I have everything I need right here and a view too. I really like my neighborhood, my apartment, my landlords, my roommates, my coworker, my room.

This is my bedroom window at night. Isn't it nice? :)

This is the view out my bedroom window here in Oviedo. I love it. I wake up in the morning and open the curtain to see what the day is like. It is nice for people watching and very very pleasant at night.
Even though the title of this entry is called A Room of My Own, I've added this picture of the Cathedral. The cathedral is very close to my apartment and I simply love taking pictures of it. This shot was a little difficult to take, but I love how it turned out.

End of the Oviedo Program

2008-06-27T15:23:00.010-06:00

Today was the last official day of the Oviedo Study Abroad Program. It has been an excellent year. We had a great group of easy going people. It was also fun to be here in 2008 because the Universidad de Oviedo was founded in 1608, so they were celebrating 400 years this year. This year has been nice to because I've made some more friends and strengthen old friendships. Overall the experience of living in Oviedo is very enjoyable and I highly recommend a visit. The picture to the right is the old cathedral tower. The one below is of the original university building; kind of like President's Circle at the U only a lot older.

Universidad de Oviedo celebrating 400 years of academics!

Oviedo at night

2008-06-26T04:10:00.006-06:00

One of my favorite things about Oviedo is how charming it is at night. It is easy to see why the locals stay out so late. I love to walk around the old part of town in the cool quite night (with my camera in hand of course). Here are a few pictures of Oviedo at night.

This is the BBVA that you can see from my bedroom window. It is a sweet old building and I love the lighting at night.

This is one of my favorite buildings in Oviedo. I call it the Burberry tower because there is a Burberry store in the bottom, but a lot of people call it the Giraffe because it is the tallest building in town.

This building is home to an insurance company and with a building like this they have to be very SURE of themselves.

As I've meantioned before, Oviedo is full of statues. This is one of my favorites of a young girl walking while reading something.

Yet more statues. These horses having been standing in front of the Cajastur building for a very very long time.

Don Juan Tenorio and other random things from Oviedo

2008-06-25T04:39:00.021-06:00

This is one of my favorite little corners of Oviedo - Trascorrales

For a mid week activity we went to the Cathedral for a guided tour. The building fascinates me. In this picture we see the cloister.

Oviedo has so many statues and works of art in the streets, plazas and parks. This is a detail of a statue near my apartment. The leaf was just there and caught my eye. :)

This is the chandelier in the very beautiful theatre Campoamor. A good friend from graduate school and I went to watch Don Juan Tenorio (by Jose Zorrilla) at the Campoamor. We read, analyzed and critiqued the work back in the day, but this time around we just sat back and enjoyed the show - which was made all the more enjoyable since the theater was built in the mid 1800's the same time Zorrilla's work was popular.

San Juan

2008-06-23T06:32:00.014-06:00

La noche de San Juan is a very old celebration. Though its religious name envokes acts of piety, the celebration has its origins in the changing of the seasons and marks the start of summer (it is most likely that the origins of the celebration are Celtic or pagan). The enormous purifying fires destroy the past and shine brightly for the rebirth of the sun and the summer. The festival is celebrated in many parts of the world. The fire in Oviedo is in the plaza in front of the cathedral (50 yards from my apartment). La Hoguera de San Juan in Oviedo, España

Dancers dance around the fire during the celebration of San Juan. Notice the three cornered celtic design. My family originates from the Isle of Man and we have a symbol that is very close to this, but it is a three-legged figure.

The cathedral in Oviedo on the night of San Juan

Covadonga, Cangas de Onis and the River Sella

2008-06-19T04:29:00.009-06:00

For one of the weekend trips we went to Covadonga, Cangas de Onis and then went canoing down the Sella River. Covadonga is the birthplace of the Reconquista. It is the site where the Spanish won the decisive battle against the invading Moors in 718AD. It is said that even the Virgin Mary joined in the battle and helped save the day. The first two pictures are of the Basilica at Covadonga. The picture with the three crosses is inside the cave of Covadonga that leads to the small chapel dedicated to the Virgen de Covadonga. The final picture is the Roman Bridge in Cangas de Onis. The bridge is actually from the gothic period, but it replaced the old roman bridge and that's how is got its name.

After the visits to the historical sites we went down the Sella River in canoes. It was great fun and a beautiful day to be on the river. The water was clear. The sun was out. The world was good.

Covandonga

Covadonga

The Roman Bridge in Cangas de Onis

Valdedios y la playa

2008-06-16T11:21:00.018-06:00

For the second excursion (last weekend) we went to see some of the historic buildings at Valdedios and then hit Rodiles Beach. At Valdedios we visited a 9th century church, La Iglesia de San Salvador de Valdedios and the convent. The picture to the left is part of the covered porch in the church. The church was completed in the year 892 - that is a very long time ago and bogles my mind to think about the time this church has sat in this now quite valley. Next to the church is the Monasterio de Santa Maria de Valdedios which has seen many additions and changes over the years. Over all the Valdedios (Valley of God) is a very peaceful place full of historical tid-bits. http://www.valdedios.org/

Courtyard in the Monasterio de Santa Maria de Valdedios with Fernando Rubio

One of the side chapels at La Iglesia de San Salvador de Valdedios

Monasterio de Santa Maria de Valdedios

Detail of window in La Iglesia de San Salvador de Valdedios

Your typical Spanish Sunbather, ok so this really isn't very typical for Spanish swimwear which tends to be a little more revealing :) Rodiles Beach, Asturias Spain

Gijon

2008-06-16T08:53:00.012-06:00

Gijon is a quick bus or train ride away from Oviedo. There is another group of students from the U there. I've been there several times this year and last to visit friends and explore. This year we went to the Aquarium and the Jovellanos Museum, both were very interesting. I have also added some pictures in San Pedro, which was damaged during the Spanish Civil War. It has been rebuilt and there looks very new and clean. It makes me think of what all the old buildings here would have looked like when they were new and it makes me think what our new buildings will look like after a couple centuries (if they are still standing).

San Pedro in Gijon

This is Jovellanos' desk in the Mueso Jovellanos in Gijon... Basically it is a 17th century laptop: a place to save your letters and documents, a place to write you "blog" and send emails... It is also simply beautiful.

Gijon's Aquarium

Avilés

2008-06-09T11:23:00.013-06:00

Avilés is very close to Oviedo. The old part of town is a fun place to spend an afternoon exploring. There are several old churches and some great old houses and palaces. Unfortunately when I went most of the churches were closed. None the less, I was able to get a few good pictures. The first is the detailed arch over the main entrance to a church. The next is a column from the Jardín Francés which used to be the backyard of a countess back has since become a public park. Then there is a great little house with flowers in the windows. The final picture I think captures Avilés: the black and red stone sidewalks, the well maintained next to the not-so-much, and the gentleman who has most likely lived here all his life. I actually really like #6… I think it is charming. :)

Avilés

Oviedo at Night

2008-06-09T03:47:00.013-06:00

Oviedo is a great place to take pictures. Here are a few pictures I took the other night... after a light evening rain everything was nice and clean. I live right in the old part of town and it is beautiful during the day and enchanting at night.

Oviedo - Parque de San Francisco

Oviedo - Parque de San Francisco

Trascorrales

Trascorrales

Luarca, Castro de Coaña y Cudillero

2008-06-08T10:55:00.018-06:00

While we are here in Oviedo we have various excursions and activities. One of the first ones was a visit to Western Asturias and the Castro de Coaña, which is the site of a ruined Celtic village. Slate is very abundant in the region and has been a popular building material for centuries; many rural houses still have slate roofs and as you can see from the picture the ruins are almost completely made of slate. There were thousands of tiny flowers growing in and around the walls and it was quite charming. Being in a charming Celtic village and seeing the flowers made me think of all the fairies and gnomes who must have filled the imaginations of the children who lived here. What would it have been like 2000 years ago when humanity was still so young and fairly innocent?

Castro de Coaña - Celtic Walls

Castro de Coaña

Flowers Castro de Coaña

Castro de Coaña

After visiting the Castro de Coaña, we visited two other towns. The first was Luarca which is where we had lunch and is the hometown of a couple of my roommates. The picture I’m posting from Luarca is a row of beach cabins. Some of them are privately owned others you can rent for a day, week, month or season. They aren’t very big, but they are right by the beach and are a great place to change or storage your beach gear. We stopped in the small town of Cudillero on our way back to Oviedo. The town is built in a gorge and most of it is only accessible by the hundreds of stairs and narrow alleys.

Luarca

Cudillero

Cudillero - The woman in the window makes me think of the song "Marta" by Nena Daconte

Adios San Sebastian! Hola Oviedo!

2008-05-29T04:40:00.011-06:00

I am officially in Oviedo. We had a wonderful 2.5 weeks traveling around Spain and seeing some of my old haunts and finding some new ones. We spent the last few days in Basque Country and have enjoyed the Northern coast of Spain. We stayed in San Sebastian which is simply a beautiful city. I've posted three pictures from San Sebastian. The top one is of the beach, obviously. It is followed by two night shots. The picture to the right is the amazing Catedral de San Salvador de Oviedo - it is as beautiful during the day as it is by night. I live about a 100 yards from the Cathedral. :) It is nice to be back in Oviedo. I look forward to see friends from last year and make some more while exploring more of Asturias.

The Sands of San Sebastian

San Sebastian

San Sebastian at night

Burgos y Gormaz

2008-05-24T05:19:00.022-06:00

The first time I went to Burgos was 2004. They were just finishingmajor cleaning and restoration and the exterior was the best it had looked in several centuries. The cathedral is still just as brilliant as it was four years ago. The Cid, one of my favorite Spanish historical figures, is buried in the cathedral. His tomb is in the floor under the main cupola. The view from his tomb is amazing! The Cid played an important role in the Reconquista against the Moors invasion. He freed Valencia and pretty much become a "king" in all but title. The Castle of Gormaz (not far from Burgos) was his at one point and is one of my favorite in the whole world. Burgos has another point of interest for me. The Camino de Santiago passes through Burgos and has been a major stop for centuries. I think Burgos is a must see for anyone traveling in Northern Spain.

This is the cupola in the center of the cathedral. Directly below this amazing ceiling is El Cid's tomb. I won't mind having a view like this for the rest of eternity.

Burgos - Ceiling, Chandelier and Glass in the Cathedral

A Bishop carved in stone sleeps in one of the many chapel in the Cathedral in Burgos

Bible from the 10th century!!! - Don't worry it's behind glass to protect it from people drooling over it :)

Cathedral's Choir Seats

Capilla
Castillo de Gormaz - My favorite Spanish castle. Looks like a fairy tale, doesn't it? :)

Pamplona and Zaragoza

2008-05-22T16:36:00.016-06:00

Pamplona's current claim to fame is the week long Festival of San Fermin or more commonly know in English as the Running of the Bulls. I've been to Pamplona during the Running of the Bulls and know what it is like. I've also been to Pamplona a couple times when it was not the Running of the Bulls and it is a completely different experience. I think there are good things and bad things about visiting Pamplona in the off season and the on season. This time around though I was there in May and it was quite, peaceful and layed back. I had time to enjoy the cafes without hordes of people, see the sites and take a few pictures. I was in the mood to try some black and white shots and I'm posting three of them. The first is a beautiful old bridge and the last two are of an enormous statue of the Running of the Bulls. Hope you enjoy.

Medieval Bridge that forms part of the Camino de Santiago (St. James' Way). Pilgrams have been crossing this bridge for over 7 centuries.

Pamplona - Home of the Running of the Bulls

The city of Zaragoza was name for Cesar Augusto and still boasts some of the best preserved Roman ruins anywhere. The Romans may have started it all but many many other people have left their mark on Zaragoza... Romans, Visigoths, Moors, Aragonese, Spanish, Mudejar, etc. At the heart of the oldest part of town sit the Catedral-Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar. According to tradition sometime after the crucifixion James was preaching the gospel in Spain when one night Mary visited him in a dream and gave him a statue of herself and a pilar. She told him that he should build a church and from that time to the present day there has been a church on the site of the current basilica.

Candles in the Basilica del Pilar in Zaragoza, Spain

Excellent example of Mudejar Architecture in Zaragoza Spain

Barcelona

2008-05-17T15:09:00.023-06:00

Barcelona has some very cool places and buildings. When I think of Barcelona two things come to mind: Gaudi and shopping on the Rambla and in the Markets. Although Gaudi designed and built many buildings outside of Barcelona he spent the last part of his life here and left some gems and some unfinished work as well. The Sagrada Familia was his final project. Its modernist style (sometimes called Art Nouveau) was very revolucionary and cutting edge back when it was started in the 1890's. It is the most visited construction site in the world. It has been fun to compare my picutres from 2004, 2007 and 2008 and see how the building is growing and changing. I've included a few pictures here of La Sagrada Familia. Interior of La Sagrada Familia, Bareclona

Inside La Sagrada Familia

Barcelona offers some fun shopping experiences. Whether you like fashion and clothes, books, food, antiques, flowers, pets or pirated media it has something for everyone. One of my favorite markets is El Mercado de Sant Josep, also know as La Boqueria. It is a food market the is worth a visit and a great place to get a quick healthy snack. Another favorite market is set up on weekend by the waterfront. It is more of a flea-market where you can find loads of interesting things. I, of course, love the book stalls. I talked with one book seller who soon found out that I'm interested in Cervantes and Don Quixote. He showed me an Art Nouveau copy of La Galatea (1585) which is a book Cervantes wrote 20 years before Don Quixote was published. I bought it and made a friend. :) Mercado de Sant Josep (La Boqueria)

Mercado de Sant Josep (La Boqueria)

Sugar Attack! - Candy in Barcelona

I really like this Bareclona picture. Even if it's hard figure out what it is... I think it is very interesting and has so much going on. If you like it and want to know more about it let me know and I'll explain it to you. :)