tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44181911743336656212024-02-07T17:22:04.354-08:00Wild about AustinPalomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.comBlogger123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-39965568333339094522015-11-04T10:32:00.001-08:002015-11-04T10:32:32.510-08:00Visiting the cemetery Since the Dia de Muertos is dedicated to remembering and honoring those who have passed on, it stands to reason that the cemetery would be the focus of attention. We walked down this small street which leads to a nearby cemetery. It had been transformed into a market selling flowers, food, and all manner of goods for the decoration of the graves.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/163.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_163.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/164.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_164.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/165.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_165.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Skulls, animals, food etc. made of sugar are a,popular item for decorating altars and graves. The variety was amazing!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/166.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_166.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They were holding a mass in the cemetery when we got there.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://youtu.be/_q0pwugb1c0">Click here for Mass in the cemetery </a><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/167.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_167.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/168.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_168.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This grave had an elaborate arrangement of the traditional marigolds and sugar skulls.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/169.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_169.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The salt spread on the ground in the shape of a cross is supposed to have a purifying effect.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/170.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_170.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />An incense called copal is often burned. It is a dried tree sap that has been used since the days of the Aztecs. I bought some in the market but haven't burned it yet.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/171.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_171.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Families were cleaning up around the graves, repainting, pulling weeds etc. There were mariachis walking around singing as some families sat picnicking and telling stories at the grave sites .<br /><a target="_blank" href="http://youtu.be/ls1YRuGkTDw">Click here to see the mariachis</a><br /><br />Here are some pics of another altar went went to see in a home. It is slightly different since these people are from Oaxaca. It was in memory of his father and her grandmother.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/172.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_172.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Those are loves of bread along the front with a huge loaf at the back. It is believed that the dead consume the "essence" of the food. For this reason it is supposedly without taste when it is consumed by the family members at the end of the celebration.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/173.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_173.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />More pictures from the home we visited (actually it was a beautiful B&B).<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/174.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_174.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/04/175.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/04/s_175.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Day of the dead is a very colorful and interesting tradition. The emphasis is on family. There is no trace of the glorification of violence, blood and gore that dominates in the states. It recognizes death as a part of life, and not in a fearful way. Pranks, scaring people, and kids begging for candy aren't a part of the experience. I like this way of doing things very much.<br /><br /><br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-57845580762543732672015-11-03T15:02:00.001-08:002015-11-03T15:02:14.550-08:00Day of the DeadOn November 1st Mexico celebrates and honors all those who have passed on. It is not like the trick or treat custom in the U.S. There is basically only one costume and that is the skeleton. The treats are laid out in altars to memorialize individuals who are being remembered. In the evening everyone meets in the town square to get their face painted and to admire the elaborate costumes. The ultimate costume is that of Catrina, who has come to represent the idea that rich or poor, we are all skeletons under the skin. .<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/261.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_261.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/262.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_262.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />For some reason I don't quite understand, some people only get half their face painted<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/263.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_263.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/264.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_264.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/265.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_265.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Below is one of the giant altars constructed by a group of students.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/266.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_266.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Altars, also called offrendas, are everywhere. Here is one in a restaurant where we ate.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/267.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_267.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A store<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/268.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_268.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Another thing you will find are the giant puppets called mojigangas.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/269.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_269.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They have a starring role in the parade of the Catrinas into the plaza. It was packed, as you can see. I never felt unsafe, didn't see any drunk people or any fights or scuffles, actually no obnoxious behavior at all! <br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://youtu.be/1swuSOJaOak">Click here to see the parade</a><br /><br />There was a competition to determine who had the best Catrina costume. This lady, a gringa named Claudia, won this year.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/270.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_270.jpg' border='0' width='157' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I know you are all wondering so, no, I didn't paint my face or dress up. Maybe next year! I think this is the coolest costume, all made out of paper plates, cup and plastic utensils. Wish I could have seen it in person, but actually just found it on the web. Maybe me next year!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/11/03/271.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/11/03/s_271.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='261' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-73405251529337236882015-10-30T22:43:00.001-07:002015-10-30T22:43:30.885-07:00More St. Michael's fiesta!The day started off with a couple hundred vaqueros riding their horses into town. <br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://youtu.be/wA5txb3Bvt4">The cowboys</a><br /><br />Incredible sight! Mucho horse poop! They all rode through the arches made of flowers, cane, and yucca right up to the cathedral. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/30/402.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/30/s_402.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />These guys really looked like they rode in from the campo (country).<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/30/403.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/30/s_403.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />In front of the church they stayed on their horses while a priest came out and conducted a mass in Spanish on the front steps for them. In all it lasted nearly an hour.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/30/404.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/30/s_404.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then they all rode out. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/30/419.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/30/s_419.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The white part of the arches is made from the base of a plant.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/30/420.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/30/s_420.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Below is a mojigange which is a large "puppet" with a person inside.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/30/421.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/30/s_421.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They can be seen often down in the plaza. This picture is not in San Miguel but it gives you an idea of the size!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/30/422.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/30/s_422.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Later on this guy was hanging out in the plaza too. I think he let's you sit on his donkey for pictures in exchange for a few pesos.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/30/423.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/30/s_423.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Yet another exciting event during the fiesta was the exploding dolls made of paper mâché and stuffed with gunpowder or firecrackers. It was really loud!<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://youtu.be/DIKEQbm14aA">Exploding dolls</a><br /><br />The whole fiesta kicks off with a fireworks battle in the town square which started at 3am and went until 4 am. I did not attend since I was told it is a crazy and hazardous affair during which young men run all over shooting Fireworks at each other to reenact the battle to throw Lucifer out of heaven. <br />Here is a link to this years "battle" taken from the church's side. It's kinda long but just try to imagine this going on for a least an hour. <br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://youtu.be/n0f25P-1Eto">Fireworks battle between the angels and the devil</a><br /><br />I woke up due to all the extremely loud fireworks and watched it all on the live webcam that streams from the plaza. Here's the link if you want to see what's going on there right now!<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.sanmiguelrealestate.com/san-miguel-de-allende/live-webcam">Live webcam in San Miguel de Allende</a><br /><br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-90817429753485858372015-10-29T00:01:00.001-07:002015-10-29T00:11:57.297-07:00Saint Michael the Archangel gets a paradeOne of the biggest celebrations of the year takes place during the last few days of September each year. The patron saint of San Miguel is, of course, Saint Michael the archangel who is renown for driving the devil out of heaven. In his honor there was a huge parade featuring more than sixty groups performing indigenous dances in colorful costumes. They have a float featuring a young woman as Michael because apparently, according to what I was told, Michael was lacking certain "manly" body parts and so appeared effeminate.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/428.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_428.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Also in the parade were "devils" cracking real whips which I found pretty scary!<br /><br /><a href="http://youtu.be/Gg4-kcvfI2M">http://youtu.be/Gg4-kcvfI2M</a><br /><br />I somehow failed to get a video of the guys sword fighting with real machetes! Here's their picture, though. No, I'm really not sure why one guy has a banjo. Ya gotta love Mexico!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/429.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_429.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/0.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_0.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Even little boys were carrying real machetes.<br /><br />Lots of colorful costumes!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/1.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_1.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/2.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_2.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/3.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_3.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/4.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_4.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/5.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_5.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Kids <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/6.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_6.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Candy apples<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/7.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_7.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Beauty queens<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/8.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_8.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />All the dancers danced up a steep hill probably at least a mile long in the afternoon sun. There were old and young, even moms with babes in arms. Their dedication was impressive. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/29/9.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/29/s_9.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />People had constructed wooden objects which were decorated with flowers and yucca leaves. These were carried up to the church at the top of the hill and leaned against the fence around the church as a kind of tribute.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://youtu.be/q7PK7hzlxgQ">http://youtu.be/q7PK7hzlxgQ</a><br /><br />The whole spectacle was really amazing!<br /><br /><br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-63309689209735609062015-10-28T23:57:00.001-07:002015-10-28T23:57:32.347-07:00The Mexican guy I fell in love with I know this will be shocking to all of you, but on my recent trip to Mexico City I fell in love with a Mexican man. He's not very attractive, overweight and wears glasses. He has somewhat unruly hair and he smokes. They tell me he is a terrible womanizer, oh and brace yourself, he's a communist. His name is Deigo, Deigo Rivera. And I love him. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/420.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_420.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='180' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />You may have heard of him and his wife, Frida Kahlo. I love her too.<br />We went to Frida's home Casa Azul. Learning the details of her life made me so wish I could have met her. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/421.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_421.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='202' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />What an exceptional person. I'm still trying to understand why she and Diego held such extreme political beliefs. They seemed like intelligent people. I need to do quite a bit more research, clearly. Also, why did Frida not pluck her unabrow? And how does she feel about having her face plastered on every other shopping bag and drink coaster set in the tiendas? <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/422.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_422.jpg' border='0' width='218' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I would be willing to bet she is turning over in her grave except I happen to know first hand she was cremated and stored in a pot shaped like a pre-columbian frog. It was her request because frogs reminded her of Diego, in a good way, apparently. In spite of these burning questions, I could not have enjoyed touring her home and studio more.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/423.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_423.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/424.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_424.jpg' border='0' width='186' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />As for my man Deigo, well, we came across a few of his most remarkable murals in the national palace and I was hooked. The passion! The satire! The beautiful colors, not to mention the gigantic scale of his work, grabs you and pulls you in. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/425.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_425.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Needing another fix, we went to the Belles Artes theater and climbed three, or maybe four, unbelievably arduous flights of marble staircases, cuz you know the good stuff is on the tip-top floor and the elevator was "not working today". Anyway we earned the exquisite pleasure of seeing several of his most famous murals. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/426.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_426.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Still not satisfied, the next day we made a trek to the building where the national education offices are housed. That in itself was interesting, peeking in the doors to see what the secretary of elementary education in Mexico was doing today. But the real treat was the motherlode of Deigo's murals all around the three floors of courtyards. It was amazing and wonderful and if Deigo had not already passed into the great beyond over fifty years ago I would be stalking him at his hacienda today. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/10/28/427.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/10/28/s_427.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-88171244686362694372015-02-03T12:09:00.001-08:002015-02-03T12:09:49.180-08:00More wanderingIf you can believe it there is even more to see in Guanajuato. My very favorite thing to do is find a small, off the beaten path museum which shocks and thrills me with it's eclectic collection. I hit the jackpot here in GTO. In the lower section of the university was a display of specimens that had been collected in Mexico back in the mid 1700s. It must have been Spanish scientist who originally caught and stuffed all these creatures. It's hard to believe they could have survived intact for so long.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/565.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_565.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />That mountain lion is more than 200 years old. Ancient alligators, monkeys making scary faces, <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/566.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_566.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Stuffed birds, including two eagles<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/567.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_567.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Skunk!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/568.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_568.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The absolute most shocking thing was this "mermaid baby" in a bottle from the 1700s. If you scroll back to the first photo of the glass cases you can see it was on the top shelf.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/569.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_569.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />There were also two headed cats, calves and sheep. I really wasn't expecting this! Whoa! <br />After visiting another church way up in the hills, we found a rock shop. Mining is a big deal around here so the shop had an interesting collection of rocks!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/570.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_570.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/571.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_571.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/572.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_572.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Next we made our way to Santa Cecilia castle which I believe was constructed to feed the cities deep need for things related to Cervantes and Don Quixote. They have a big festival in GTO every year to honor him.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/573.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_573.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This would be the perfect place to stay as it is a cool castle with a swimming pool, gardens and a playground. We ate lunch here and it was very good and not expensive. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/574.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_574.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Lastly, we also checked out the Don Quixote museum which has two floors of art related to the famous Man of La Mancha. In case you are wondering, Cervantes was a Spaniard who wrote this tale, set in Spain, back in the 1600s. Someone here in Mexico began collecting stuff related to it and it ended up becoming a museum. Hmmm.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/575.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_575.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Here is my fav piece in the museum. Love it.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/576.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_576.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Having spent a little over three weeks, I am sadly leaving the beautiful and mysterious country of Mexico. I truly think it is one of the most wonderful places in the world. The natural beauty, the culture, the people, the way of life, they have so much to offer. I know there are problems here, but there's a lot to love. Hasta luego, amigos.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/577.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_577.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Guanajuato,%20Mexico%20&z=10'>Guanajuato, Mexico </a></p>Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-2319586230268893352015-02-02T20:30:00.001-08:002015-02-02T20:30:09.484-08:00Cool stuffWe walked down the hill today, rather than taking the funicular. Wow! It was a lot of stairs but we made it. This was just the last few steps below. I liked the coffee shop on the bridge over the street.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/654.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_654.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />On the way we got to venture through some small winding streets. Loved this door with the calla lillies!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/655.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_655.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/656.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_656.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Above is the Teatro Juarez and the San Diego church on right. People sat on the steps of the theater watching street performances and laughing their heads off. They were having so much fun. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/657.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_657.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This shot just goes to show kids are the same everywhere. Eating ice cream and checking their cell phones.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/658.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_658.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We took a tourist trolley to see the town. It was all in Spanish but I understood some of it. I found I could either concentrate on the guide and what he was saying and understand about 50%, or I could look out the window at what was going by and just barely get what he was talking about. Could not do both!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/659.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_659.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This little neighborhood held a candy store where we stopped.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/660.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_660.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Candied fruit<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/661.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_661.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/662.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_662.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then we toured one of the older parts of town. You can see the European influence in some of the homes. Due to very productive silver mines, Guanajuato was a very wealthy city in the colonial days.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/663.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_663.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/664.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_664.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Next we visited this church just as Sunday mass was letting out. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/665.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_665.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The nuns were selling cookies so of course we bought some, and some buñuelos, and some kind of flan cheesecake. Sorry, it was for the church so we just had to.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/666.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_666.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Also of interest was the lady with the basket of dolls. I had heard that this was the weekend of the Virgen de Candelaria, which is a festival that commemorates the day baby Jesus was presented to the synagogue . So, the idea is that you bring dolls to church to represent wishes or prayers you have for someone. I think it's like if you want your son to grow up to be a doctor you bring a doll dressed as a doctor. I think this lady wants one of her kids to be the pope. Side note: not surprisingly this holy day coincides with a day the indigenous people celebrated to mark the position of the sun in reference to planting something or other. Gosh, I did not pay good enough attention during that lecture I attended.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/667.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_667.jpg' border='0' width='166' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Next we walked to the famous steps of the university which was closed due to it being Sunday. I was disappointed not to see inside, however, at least I did not have to climb all those stairs!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/668.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_668.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />So we had a coffee at the shop next door where there was the most guapo (handsome) barista in town. My blurry photo does not do him justice. Gorgeous eyes and a megawatt smile. So cute and friendly.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/669.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_669.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Everywhere we went people were super kind to us. There are not many gringos here and few people who speak English , so I really appreciated their patience in giving us directions on the street and trying to help us. Plus, I think they have a soft spot for old ladies here. All the mobs of teens were so considerate to us. Maybe they were just in a good mood because there was no school on Monday. Three day weekend! Yippee!<br /><br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Guanajuato,%20Mexico%20&z=10'>Guanajuato, Mexico </a></p>Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-62213310162267549462015-02-02T20:25:00.001-08:002015-02-02T20:25:20.952-08:00The hill townGuanajuato! A city founded back in the 1500's full of art and culture.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/633.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_633.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />For the last few days of my excellent adventure in Mexico I am traveling via bus from San Miguel to the nearby town of Guanajuato.<br />For about $20 used we got a very nice bus and a sandwich, chips and a drink to eat on the way. It was very roomy with a two seat/ one seat configuration. Seat back entertainment provided and every seat had a cup holder. It was great watching the countryside go by. I was actually sad when it was over. Sorry I did not get a better pic.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/634.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_634.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This view of the colorful city was taken from the roof top terrace of the house we rented. Gorgeous, huh?<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/635.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_635.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Below is the center of the old town. We visited all those churches and spent a lot of time in that green v shaped garden in the lower right, the Jardin de Union.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/636.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_636.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />To get down there we rode a funicular near our house up on the hill. Pretty steep ride but it beats climbing up or down.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/637.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_637.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Near the top of the funicular is the huge statue of Pipila, a folk hero of the Mexican revolution.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/638.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_638.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />He looks down on the city below.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/639.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_639.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Guanajuato is famous for its underground streets. Three hundred years ago the city suffered a terrible flood so they carved out these subterranean tunnels to divert the flood waters. Later, when some dams were built to divert the water, they turned them into underground streets. They are long too! And narrow!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/640.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_640.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/641.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_641.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Here is a blurry picture of what happened when a pick up broke down under there. People got out and pushed him out of the way. I was scared we would be stuck down there forever!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/642.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_642.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The first place we went was the Jardin de Union, the hub of all the activity in Guanajuato. Lots and lots of people, especially the young folks, of which there are many because this is a university town. The garden is green and leafy and surrounded with a shaded marble walkway lined with benches.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/643.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_643.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/644.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_644.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/645.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_645.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />At night fall the area really revs up with throngs of people and lots of street performers.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/646.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_646.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/647.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_647.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/648.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_648.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We had a great dinner on the second floor balcony of the building with the blue lights overlooking all the action.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/649.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_649.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />First I had a michelada which is like a Bloody Mary except with beer instead of liquor. It was delish!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/650.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_650.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I followed up with a delicious steak and shrimp entree. Yum.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/651.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_651.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We wandered down the street to the next plaza, then called it a night!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/02/652.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/02/s_652.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Guanajuato&z=10'>Guanajuato</a></p>Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-7712817812656893412015-01-30T10:20:00.001-08:002015-01-30T10:20:25.284-08:00MercadoOn Tuesdays there is a giant market. I made my way over there to check it out.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/338.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_338.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Everybody around here talks about the clothes, piles and piles of clothes, for super cheap. And indeed, it was true. I assume these are all used clothes, although they were in surprisingly good condition. I found a lot of Chico's brand as well as Coldwater Creek and Talbots so there were certainly bargains to be had! You'll note the prices hanging from the posters. Five pesos is about 35 cents.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/339.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_339.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A couple of things to note about the massive pile of clothes above. Las gringas like to dig in there with the best of them. It's kind of like some kind of treasure hunt. You just stick your hand as far as you can into the pile and pull something out. The guy standing on the table at the end is shouting the whole time "barato! barato! barato!" Which means "Cheap! Cheap! Cheap! " he tries to whip all the ladies into a bargain hunting frenzy. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/340.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_340.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Lots of fresh flowers for sale. Here are some we arranged for our dining table. Which reminds me. You can see behind the table the fantastic collection of books about Mexico that the people who own this house have collected over the years. I wanted to read them all! <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/341.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_341.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Above you see an interesting craft. This guy has coins from all over the world which he carves out with some kind of special tool, leaving the main symbol in the middle. These are all coins from Israel. My fav was the seahorse from Singapore, but I also loved the Aztec head from a Mexican coin. Cool huh?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/342.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_342.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='262' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Also at the mercado were lots of food vendors. It smelled so good. If you are a fan of fried pig skins you will love this!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/343.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_343.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I bought 3 tomates and two large avocados for less than a dollar total, came home and made myself this delicious lunch. Yum!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/344.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_344.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> On to Guanajuato today! We're riding the bus!<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=SMA&z=10'>SMA</a></p>Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-11337320192147677072015-01-28T09:52:00.001-08:002015-01-28T09:52:51.819-08:00The happenings on the plazaJust wandered down to the Starbucks on the plaza and heard something coming down the street. Still have no idea what the occasion was.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/261.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_261.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Guys wearing paper mâché heads dancing to the music from the pick up truck speakers.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/262.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_262.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Women carrying a litter with bags of something,rice maybe? Others carrying squash and flowers were part of the parade.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/263.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_263.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />At the head of the parade a glass case with saint? <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/264.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_264.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This is one of the awesome things about San Miguel. Stuff like this just happens out of the blue. It's mysterious and fascinating.<br /><br />The dancers there to perform the indigenous dances seemed very serious. I don't know why.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/291.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_291.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/292.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_292.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Well this one lady and her little boy had smiles.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/293.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_293.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/294.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_294.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/295.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_295.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Even the kids were taking this seriously.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/296.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_296.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The costumes seemed to be those of warriors, with buckskin, fringe, feathers, and fur with the occasional skull thrown in for good measure.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/297.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_297.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br />Yet another day, yet another spectacle. This day a group of nuns stood before the cathedral for about an hour saying the Lord's Prayer in Spanish and singing songs and clapping. One nun had a guitar. I could not help but think of Sally Field and the flying nun.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/298.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_298.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/299.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_299.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Also in the Jardin (main plaza) you will always find someone or something of interest. You might just think this is an ugly dog, but actually it is an ancient breed of hairless dog from the days of the Aztecs. The "Xolo" breed has been around for at least 3,000 years and is known as the national breed of Mexico. The young man who owned him was quite proud of him.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/300.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_300.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />In my experience the best way to conclude a visit to the plaza is with an ice cream cone. Mexican vanilla is my favorite.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/28/301.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/28/s_301.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='96' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Photo from google<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=SMA&z=10'>SMA</a></p>Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-16465784305899407152015-01-19T13:58:00.001-08:002015-01-19T13:58:48.074-08:00What I like and what I don't <br /><br />Best things about SMA<br /><br />1. The light here is so clear and bright. I can see why the artists love it. The colors just jump out at you. It's a delight to be outside. I wish I had a better camera to capture it.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/19/260.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/19/s_260.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />2. Flowers. Bougainville drapes down the pastel walls like a curtain even in January. Brilliant poinsettia peek over a gate, or in the case below over a wall topped with glass shards.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/19/261.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/19/s_261.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />3. Tacos. Cheap tacos of every variety are everywhere . The guy 3 doors down makes a good brain taco (also tongue taco) for only 70 cents I am told. I tried the chicken mole taco from a street vendor and loved it.<br /><br />4. The locals smile a lot and seem happy. They are kind and friendly. I think the gringos provide a good source of income for them. If they resent us being here, they sure don't show it. I like the way they treat their kids, and their grandmas too.<br /><br />5. The vegetables are fresh and cheap and within walking distance. They have a good deal of organic stuff here.<br /><br />At the organic market on Saturday.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/19/262.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/19/s_262.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Lots of food to chose from<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/19/263.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/19/s_263.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I ate gorditas. Yum.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/19/264.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/19/s_264.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They have stuff like rugs and baskets too.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/19/265.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/19/s_265.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was cloudy that day.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/19/266.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/19/s_266.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />6. You can walk almost everywhere, but a cab ride only cost three bucks or so if you get tired.<br /><br />7. You could eat at a different restaurant everyday for a month!<br /><br />8. The pharmacy in my neighborhood sells tequila which I consider very nice of them. So handy when shopping for shampoo etc.<br /><br />9. The locals are veerrryyy patient with those of us who are trying to improve our Spanish. They speak slowly and try to make it easier. It helps so much.<br /><br />10. There are so many interesting expats ( short for ex-patriot, a person living outside their country of citizenship) who live here and also numbers of widely travelled people passing through for a time. I love meeting them and hearing their stories. Fascinating folks! I learn so much!<br /><br /><br />The cons<br /><br />1. It's a pain that you can't flush your toilet paper. You have to wrap it up in more TP and deposit it in a trash can next to the toilet. Ick. The sewer pipes under the streets are just too old to manage it, apparently, and they can't rip up all the streets to replace them without destroying historic stuff.<br /><br />2. Along the same lines, you can't drink the tap water. Actually the water is fine as they have a good water treatment plant, however the pipes that carry the water are all old and corroded and contaminate the water. Replacement problem same as #1.<br /><br />3. The cobblestone streets are heck to walk on after a while. Sidewalks are really narrow and uneven with many obstacles. You have to keep your eyes on your feet when walking and don't walk where it's dark.<br /><br />4. It's really hard to learn the bus stops, routes, schedules etc because there are no signs. At all. Someone just has to show you where to stand to catch the bus. Once you figure it out, though, it's all good because it only cost thirty cents!<br /><br />5. The electricity is unpredictable! Light bulbs burn out all the time and may even trip the breaker! The hair dryer can't do "high". Cross your fingers when using the microwave.<br /><br />6. The kids here are in love with fireworks. If it's your birthday you can go wild with the firecrackers! Loud! Actually, I don't think you even need an excuse.<br />I wish the pic below were mine, but I found it on google.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/19/267.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/19/s_267.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />7. Ice cream stand, bakeries, and candy stores are everywhere and it is nearly impossible to resist. Here are some candies I bought. They are made to look like tamales but are coconut inside.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/19/268.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/19/s_268.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />8. Because the cable channels come in from Washington state for some weird reason, you can't watch Downton Abby until 11 pm and it's hard to stay up that late for us oldsters. I can't figure out when anything is on because some channels also come in from Miami. Solution: read a book!<br /><br />9. There is no airport here. You have to take a shuttle to a town over an hour away to catch a plane. The silver lining is that there are no planes flying over. None at all. That's nice. <br /><br />10. There are stray dogs here, which you rarely see back home. Also quite a few "roof dogs" that live on the tops of the houses. If you see water dripping off a roof, always walk way around it to avoid being splashed. People hose off the dog waste from the roof and you don't want to get mixed up with that! Sorry, no picture.<br /><br />So that's my summary so far! <br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=San%20Miguel%20de%20Allende,%20Mexico%20&z=10'>San Miguel de Allende, Mexico </a></p>Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-55209873065904726632015-01-18T11:25:00.001-08:002015-01-18T11:25:46.916-08:00El Charco<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/269.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_269.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='144' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />On the edge of town is a botanic garden which is all about the cacti of course. I joined a group tour and spent a couple of hours hiking around the place. It was wonderful, my idea of a perfect day. The garden is called El Charco and it is set along the shores of a shallow reservoir . On the other side of the dam is a deep canyon with mysterious pools, rocky trails and loads of cool birds.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/270.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_270.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/271.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_271.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The barrel cactus below are less common than they used to be because people use them to make a popular type of candy. They rescue and relocate barrel cactus here when necessary.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/272.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_272.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Century plant putting out a flower.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/273.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_273.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/274.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_274.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/275.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_275.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/276.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_276.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/278.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_278.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/281.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_281.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This pool is said to be inhabited by a spirit which will pull you down to the underworld if you swim there.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/282.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_282.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The structure below is made by indigenous people from parts of a cactus plant .<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/283.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_283.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/284.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_284.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/285.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_285.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />My absolute favorite thing was the incredible birds I saw there. I wish I had taken these two photos but I didn't . I did see both these kinds of birds though.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/286.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_286.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='205' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Vermillion flycatcher <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/18/287.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/18/s_287.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Great kiskadee<br /><br />I'm really looking forward to the bird walk next week!<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=SMA&z=10'>SMA</a></p>Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-79403019380895272282015-01-17T14:14:00.001-08:002015-01-17T14:14:29.091-08:00Things I learned today<br />I learned lots of new things today! I love it! I went to the cell phone company, riding the bus with the locals, and bought a new cell phone for use here in Mexico. It is a cool phone that, though it is not "smart", can show tv! Ok, yes it is only four Spanish channels but watching tv is free! Now how cool is that for only $25? Plus I got 100 minutes with that. Here is my cute phone with its antenna up. There's actually a tv show playing in that yellow square on the screen. Also has a camera and fm radio! In the background is a fun book set here in San Miguel which I have been enjoying reading.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/17/416.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/17/s_416.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Another thing I did was go to the Mega store, which is kind of like superwalmart. I bought all kinds of groceries and determined to make chicken soup tonight. First I had to soak the raw veggies in a vinegar bath for about twenty minutes. I boiled the raw chicken in some chicken broth with garlic and bay leaves and some onion. Then realized I needed celery. I walked the fifty steps down to the little corner store where I found the celery. It was huge! The guy in the store said you just break off however many stalks you want. Then I consulted with a knowledgable looking grandmother about which pepper would go best in my soup (my Spanish must be improving) and within 7 minutes was back at the stove!<br /> I think my sopa turned out pretty good for my first try at cooking in Mexico. The cilantro really makes it.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/17/417.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/17/s_417.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/17/418.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/17/s_418.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />The next thing I learned was something I have been very curious about for a long time, and that is medical care here in Mexico. A friend was ill in the hospital so we went to visit. The hospital was small, but clean and modern. Most of the doctors seemed to speak English, and my friend feels she is getting good care there. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/17/419.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/17/s_419.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='185' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/17/420.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/17/s_420.jpg' border='0' width='270' height='185' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> The room was quite a bit nicer than the ones I have visited in Austin, with a couch to sleep on as well as a recliner and plenty of space. The nurses seemed capable, but it really helps to be able to speak a little Spanish. The small cafeteria was handy and clean. All in all, a lot better than I expected. Good to know. Oh, and one more thing, the doctor actually took time to show me how to program numbers into my new phone! Talk about service! Also, most all the doctors were really handsome, which helps if you don't feel good. <br /><br />Lastly, I am happy I am conquering riding the buses around town and learning the streets so I don't get lost. Also I am getting so good at negotiating with cab drivers to get the best price. Hopefully I don't get pegged as a tourist right away. Blending in as much as possible is the way to go.<br /><br />Tomorrow meeting up with a friend of a friend at the organic market for coffee and on to the fine art fair !<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=SMA&z=10'>SMA</a></p>Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-43673190298747654742015-01-13T15:08:00.001-08:002015-01-13T15:08:30.981-08:00South of the Border As luck would have it, one of mi amigas from Austin is spending a few months down here in Mexico and has been kind enough to share her lovely abode with me. I am really enjoying her company as well as this beautiful Mexican home she is renting. The same people have used it as their vacation home for eighteen years ( I think) and have filled it with colorful art and fascinating books about Mexico. I have my own suite on the 3rd floor complete with a gas fireplace and a view. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/348.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_348.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/349.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_349.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/350.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_350.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Above me is a rooftop terrace where I snapped these photos.<br /><br />That's the famous cathedral on the left. The sky behind it looks smokey , I think, because they have started burning the fields already out on the farms. I saw a number of fires and blackened fields on my shuttle ride into town.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/351.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_351.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Luxury homes<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/352.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_352.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />There is a building with a large goose on top in the photo below. My best understanding it that it was supposed to be a restaurant at one time. Now defunct. Were they serving goose? Who knows!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/353.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_353.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Many folks are unfamiliar with the town of San Miguel de Allende. It is located in the mountains about 3 hours north of Mexico City . I flew into León and then rode a shuttle van about an hour and a half into the city. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/354.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_354.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='141' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The weather here is pleasant all year, with cool nights and mornings (sweater weather) during the winter, and sunny days in the upper 60s and low 70s. Summers are not hot, if you can believe it! This is due to the altitude ( approx 6500 ft) and the rather arid environment.<br />San Miguel was founded in 1542 by Franciscan monks and became a colonial city. Now it has about 140,000 people, a few thousand of whom are expats, mostly from the US, Canada, and Europe. It is a UNESCO world heritage site. There's lots to explore here.<br /><br />On Sunday I went on the home and garden tour held by the library. The first garden we visited was several miles out into the country in a small village. It was fascinating to see the countryside and all the locals out visiting with their families. This lady built this house about 8 years ago and has developed all the gardens. She has quite an imagination.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/355.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_355.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The green fence is about 8 ft tall so these are not small pieces.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/356.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_356.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This is the head of a snake planter that entwined another 30 ft or so behind along the pathway.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/357.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_357.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I wondered what this red guys story was but didn't get back to ask the owner.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/358.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_358.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The palapa was lovely.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/359.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_359.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/360.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_360.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />La Caterina, an icon of Mexican folk art for over 100 years, reminds everyone that rich or poor, death comes to us all.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/361.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_361.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The next home we visited belonged to a local artist who has been living in SMA for over twenty years. He has collected beautiful rocks, crystals and fossils in addition to plants and artwork. This is the little patio by the front door.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/362.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_362.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/363.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_363.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />His mask collection is impressive.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/364.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_364.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/365.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_365.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />His back patio was lovely.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/366.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_366.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Next week there will be different houses! Yippee!<br /><br />After the tour I went down to the plaza and had some ice cream. The kids were bouncing these large pencil shaped balloons (?) all over the place and having a grand time. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/367.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_367.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/368.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_368.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then I went home to my own little patio! <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/369.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_369.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />My view includes a few leftover christmas decorations, hanging laundry, and a lemon tree. I think it is pretty cool.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/13/370.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/13/s_370.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hasta luego, amigos!<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=San%20Miguel%20de%20Allende,%20Mexico&z=10'>San Miguel de Allende, Mexico</a></p>Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-12094916102562219022014-05-28T14:48:00.001-07:002014-05-28T14:48:35.368-07:00All things Belgian We have been here in Brussels two night now and the place is really growing on me. First off, hearing French spoken is always a pleasure, and after a day or so it starts to seem familiar and I can pick up a word here and there. No less of a delight is the food here. The prices are reasonable, people are friendly and accommodating and the food tastes splendid.<br />We ate lunch in a sidewalk cafe in the Galleries du Hubert , which is one of the first "shopping malls" in Europe .<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/623.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_623.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />There's Bill below getting a few great shots as usual.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/624.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_624.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/625.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_625.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Every other store was a chocolate shop. Of course we had to buy a few bon bons and they were delish.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/626.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_626.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Another thing Belgium is known for is waffles. So good!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/627.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_627.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Comics are very popular here.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/628.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_628.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/629.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_629.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Oh and beer made by Trappist monks. This old tavern dates from 1928.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/630.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_630.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Between chocolate shops are stores selling a huge variety of specially brewed Belgium beer.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/631.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_631.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Of course the most famous resident of Belgium is the little statue known as "Mannikin Pis". It dates from the 1600s and was originally used as a drinking fountain I think. It's really small and wears clothes people have made for it. Once again, underwhelming. Here you see him wearing a lavender soccer. uniform for some unknown reason.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/632.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_632.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A school field trip stops by the statue. Interesting how all the kids had to wear vests.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/633.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_633.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />There appears to be no limit to the commercial potential of this Mannikin.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/634.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_634.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Even the French fries salute him. Note yellow sign. The fry is peeing!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/635.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_635.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I have to say that even though the sky is usually gray, the shops are colorful.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/636.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_636.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/637.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_637.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/638.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_638.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/639.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_639.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/28/640.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/28/s_640.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The Grand Place is the main square and has been there for a thousand years. Here's my movie of it.<br /><br /><p align='center'><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://www.youtube.com/v/tP0RcgV5G9M" width="400" height="300"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/tP0RcgV5G9M" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><!-- Fallback content --><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tP0RcgV5G9M"><img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/tP0RcgV5G9M/0.jpg" width="400" height="300" />YouTube Video</a></object></p>Tomorrow is our last day. Can you believe it? We plan to spend it in Bruges.<br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-68336252216297566852014-05-26T11:10:00.001-07:002014-05-26T11:10:51.462-07:00CopenhagenMy first reaction to Copenhagen is, wow, I had this place all wrong. I was expecting the reserved demeanor of the Norwegians mixed with the orderliness of the Swedes. Oh my. The little section of town I have seen so far is just the opposite, raucous, rowdy, and out of the box. My impression is that these people pride themselves on their nonconformity! Interesting side note : some researchers say they are the happiest nation. Also, some of this craziness is probably because it is Saturday night and there is a big soccer game in town. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/454.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_454.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />First thing you notice here is that it is a town ruled by bikes. They have their own lanes with traffic lights and crosswalks. Nobody wears a helmet. Many people have modified bikes with a large compartments for dogs and kids. I saw a woman today with 3 kids in the front compartment and one in a child seat behind her. Dang! Four kids equals a minivan in the US. I also saw a lady my age pedaling along with two 8 packs of toilet paper, a few other groceries in a bag and a flat of impatiens on a plain two wheel bike in traffic! Wow!<br />Unfortunately, I was not quick enough to get a picture of any of these "bikers". I should also mention that there were an inordinate number of people with crutches and bandaged arms. On a more cheerful note, I was able to snap this update for the fashion followers out there. Yellow pants with red jacket and tasteful murse (man purse).<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/455.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_455.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Obligatory little mermaid picture. Underwhelming. Not sure why it is famous.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/456.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_456.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />There are so many more intriguing and unusual objects d'arte like this scandalous fountain which originally was a drinking fountain before they elevated it. You'll notice the water shoots out of her breasts, also the standing boy appears to be peeing. Who in the world thought of this for a drinking fountain? <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/457.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_457.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Also saw this boat sailing in the harbor.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/458.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_458.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Nearby was the royal yacht.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/459.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_459.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hans Christian Andersen was from Copenhagen. According to what I read, Danes like to sit on his knee and get their picture made topless. I decided to break with tradition and keep my clothes on.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/460.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_460.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We rode one of these boats.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/461.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_461.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><p align='center'><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://www.youtube.com/v/dTusHgL6xjs" width="400" height="300"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/dTusHgL6xjs" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><!-- Fallback content --><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTusHgL6xjs"><img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/dTusHgL6xjs/0.jpg" width="400" height="300" />YouTube Video</a></object></p>This is the area called Nyhaven. It's a canal, and also an area where the sailors used to dock and hang out since the 1600s. A lot of the buildings are actually that old.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/462.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_462.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />It's legal to drink beer on the street so lots of people were getting it "to go. " The bartender told us the drinking age is 16, but I didn't see many young people drinking. Maybe they hang out somewhere else.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/463.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_463.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was a superb opportunity for people watching.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/464.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_464.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Sad to say, there were a lot of drunk folks in some areas. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/465.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_465.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A theater<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/466.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_466.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Tivoli gardens which we did not want to pay to see.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/467.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_467.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Statue of two guys blowing a Lur horn, which Rick Steves says is an ancient horn used to call the guys to battle. Now I think it's just used to signal happy hour!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/468.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_468.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />One thing I noticed about the Danes, they seem to be very politically active and very concerned with "green" causes. Also, taxes must be very high. I read somewhere that there was 100% tax on buying a car and that is why so many bicycles. All I know is I paid about $6 for a large cup of plain coffee this morning. Don't judge me. I really needed it. We have just been eating sandwiches here because food is so super expensive, even at the grocery store.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/26/469.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/26/s_469.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The one thing we did not quite get to do was go to the area called "Christiana" where the hippies created a commune by squatting in an abandoned military base in 1971. They declared themselves a "free nation" and have been in a tug of war with the Danish government ever since. Kind of interesting to see how their experiment turned out, but I'll have to check it out next time.<br />Onward now to Brussels, which is, sadly, our last stop. I'll be home on Friday!<br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-63458623659714212952014-05-24T05:51:00.001-07:002014-05-24T05:51:43.167-07:00StockholmWhat a beautiful day in Sweden! The sun was shining and a cool breeze was blowing as we cruised past one beautiful island after another on our way into town. It was really stunning scenery. Lots of snug little cabins tucked into forested coves. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/210.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_210.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/211.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_211.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/212.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_212.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/213.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_213.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/214.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_214.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/215.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_215.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/216.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_216.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/217.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_217.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />You can thank Bill for the great shots above. <br /><br />Then the rustic feel gave way to city scenery.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/218.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_218.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <i>by Bill</i><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/219.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_219.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />As we got into the port, we got off the ship and on to a smaller "hop on hop off" shuttle boat that takes you around to the sites. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/220.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_220.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/221.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_221.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/222.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_222.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Old town had picturesque streets, the Nobel Prize museum, cold beer, and good ice cream. The most interesting ice cream flavor was "licorice and salt". Sorry to be a wimp, but I just got vanilla.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/223.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_223.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Bill bought some art from the artist who runs this gallery. He was from Iceland!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/224.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_224.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was a lovely warm sunny day, perfect for tramping around town.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/225.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_225.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Narrow alley with an extremely long staircase!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/226.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_226.jpg' border='0' width='186' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><i>photo by Bill</i><br />At the royal palace we witnessed the changing of the guard with a short band concert,<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/228.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_228.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/229.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_229.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <i>photos by Bill</i><br /><br />then off to the Vasa Museum.<br /> The Vasa is a ship that was built in Sweden over 300 years ago in 1628. Although very huge and ornate, it was poorly designed and sank in the harbor in less than an hour where it lay, unrecoverable, for centuries. In 1959 they located it and started the process of hoisting it up in one piece from the bottom. After years of restoration the ship and many of its contents are on view. It's really an amazing sight, as 98% of the ship was preserved. The ropes, however, are all reproductions. The huge exhibit hall is kept in dim light with carefully controlled temperature and humidity. If I understood correctly, they sprayed the whole ship with glycerin for 17 years to replace the water in the wood so it would not crumble. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/230.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_230.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Below is a model that was made to illustrate what it looked like with all it's sails in original condition. It had over 50 cannons and a tremendous amount of carved wood ornamentation.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/231.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_231.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Somehow they were able to ascertain how they were painted.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/232.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_232.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />There were several preserved human bodies on board. Their shoes and clothes were still intact somehow, even after more than 300 years! They made realistic reproductions of their faces based on computer analysis of the skulls and DNA analysis. They looked so real. It was spooky.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/233.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_233.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We returned to our ship and watched the action in the harbor. An incredible number of boats, ferries, cruise ships and even jet skies! I couldn't believe they didn't collide!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/234.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_234.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Lastly, two colorful reminders of my day in Sweden.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/235.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_235.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />elves!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/236.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_236.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/237.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_237.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Now we are off to Wismar, Germany.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/238.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_238.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><i>photo by Bill</i><br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-26185571384787640422014-05-24T05:48:00.001-07:002014-05-24T05:48:52.254-07:00HelsinkiFrom Saint Petersburg it was a short hop over to Helsinki. Helsinki differs from the other ports in that it is a rather newer city and doesn't really have an old town. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/205.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_205.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We walked the area using the self guided walk from Rick Steves, strolling through the outdoor market, (neglected to get a good pic of the market, so here is one of some building art instead)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/206.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_206.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><i>photo by Bill</i><br />down the tree lined promenade, past a couple of statues, the train station with its Art Deco style and finally this lovely stuffed reindeer. I also saw a man of about 40 wearing some neon orange manpris, FYI.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/207.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_207.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />One of the top attractions in Helsinki is the " Church in the Rock", a copper domed structure built in 1969. It was blasted out of solid rock and has a bomb shelter for 6,000 people under the floor. Very modern!<br /><br /><br /><p align='center'><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://www.youtube.com/v/owbxAXgHAWM" width="400" height="300"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/owbxAXgHAWM" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><!-- Fallback content --><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owbxAXgHAWM"><img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/owbxAXgHAWM/0.jpg" width="400" height="300" />YouTube Video</a></object></p>Yet another attraction in Helsinki is the beer tram, seen below.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/208.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_208.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><i>photos by Bill</i><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/209.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_209.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Patrons of the tram ride around town while sampling the local brew. All in all, quite an interesting day in Finland!<br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-52460973730182193892014-05-24T05:45:00.001-07:002014-05-24T05:45:45.933-07:00Russia day twoToday we started out with a ride on a Russian subway. They are famous for their elegant, museum-like decor. This one has marble walls and chandeliers.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/186.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_186.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><i>photo by Bill</i><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/187.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_187.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A thick glass column below.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/188.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_188.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Subways were built during the soviet era.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/189.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_189.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Later we went to Peter the Greats' Palace and saw the gardens which had many grand fountains. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/190.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_190.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><i>photo by Bill</i><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/191.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_191.jpg' border='0' width='186' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><i>photo by Bill</i><br />This group of young boys who attend a military school were there on a field trip walking in formation.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/192.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_192.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/193.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_193.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The afternoon found us at the palace where Catherine the Great spent her summers. Of course it was glorious.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/194.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_194.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />So fabulous that we had to wear these shoe covers like doctors wear so our peasant feet would not scuff the royal floors. Well, the floors were nice.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/195.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_195.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The ceilings were all nice too, painted in elaborate murals.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/196.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_196.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Not to mention the golden walls, mirrors, and sconce candelabras. It was blinding. There was room after room like this. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/197.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_197.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><i>photo by Bill</i><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/198.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_198.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Shiny domes towered over the backside of the palace which was under construction, thus covered with a realistic painted netting.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/199.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_199.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/200.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_200.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They used these ceramic stoves to heat the rooms rather than fireplaces.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/201.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_201.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/202.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_202.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/203.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_203.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Believe it or not, I think these are some kind of fringed tulip.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/204.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_204.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The palace was devastated during World War II but they managed to hide away the art and some of the furniture. It took a really long time, but finally it was rebuilt with historical accuracy using photos that were taken before the Nazis began bombing it. The most challenging part was the recreation of the amber room, the walls completely covered with mosaics of amber. They spent a fortune to acquire the amber and make every detail exactly match how it looked originally. It was breathtaking. Of course no photos allowed.<br />Oh, and I forgot to mention I ate borscht for lunch and it was good! <br /><br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-54954148252803139342014-05-24T05:44:00.001-07:002014-05-24T05:44:39.721-07:00RussiaThe last two days have been spent discovering the city of St. Petersburg, Russia. We landed here on Sunday and soon found out we were very fortunate to have booked a private tour online before we came on our trip. The tour agency arranged all our paperwork for us and were waiting for us with an English speaking guide, a comfy van and driver. It was great. They took us right to the door of the places we visited and our guide had all the tickets and entry fees prepaid and lead us through everything with great information and lots of opportunities to ask questions. There were two other couples, so our little group of 6 was perfect. We saw so many incredible sights and even got to ride the metro!<br />I have always dreamed of going to the famous Hermitage Art Museum which started out as a palace of course. It was very grand and dripping with guilded ornaments.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/170.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_170.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/171.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_171.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/172.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_172.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We did not even scratch the surface of the art they have here. Catherine the Great was an avid collector!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/173.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_173.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Royal reception hall below.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/174.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_174.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We saw two works by Da Vinci<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/175.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_175.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Incredible mosaic everywhere, some so finely done you could not discern them from a painting.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/176.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_176.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Tulips dominated the gardens.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/177.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_177.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The most unusual thing I saw was this huge golden peacock which was given to Catherine as a present. It is actually an automated clock that moves when it is wound up.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/178.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_178.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They only wind it up on Wednesdays, but they have a video that gives you some idea of what it does.<br /><br /><p align='center'><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://www.youtube.com/v/AZIbDH95iEg" width="400" height="300"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/AZIbDH95iEg" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><!-- Fallback content --><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZIbDH95iEg"><img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/AZIbDH95iEg/0.jpg" width="400" height="300" />YouTube Video</a></object></p>Next we went to the church on the spilled blood where one the Czars was assassinated. The onion domes were quite shiny and impressive. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/179.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_179.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was right on one of the many canals that crisscross the downtown.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/180.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_180.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The inside was an incredible array of mosaics and gold. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/181.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_181.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/182.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_182.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Of course the gift shop sold replicas of Fabrege eggs. So sparkly.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/183.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_183.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Here's me and our tour guide, Anna. It was great spending two days with her asking all kinds of questions about politics and life in Russia. She pays 13% income tax and everyone has free medical. You can pay for a supplemental policy if you want a higher standard of care. Unemployment is not a problem and climate change, I.e. Global warming is totally a non issue. Most Russians are not at all concerned about it. There is wide support of Putin. Education is free through university as long as you keep your grades up. The biggest concern of Russians right now has to do with pensions and what we would call "social security" payments to the retired. Apparently this was a factor in why some people in Crimea wanted to join Russia. Pensions would be higher and more secure. They have internet and American TV if you have satellite. Many people are very religious and the government is supportive of the church which is mostly Russian Orthodox.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/184.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_184.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Beautiful fence and park outside the church.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/185.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_185.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I have to say Russia was much more modern, well to do, and opulent than I had expected.<br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-83178870491178711482014-05-24T05:42:00.001-07:002014-05-24T05:42:51.636-07:00CruisingIt has been fun cruising the capitals of the Baltics on the Empress, a ship out of Spain. Spanish is the main language on board so my Spanish has gotten a bit of a workout. Yea!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/167.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_167.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/168.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_168.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It's my first time to have a balcony and I'm loving it! That's our balcony in the picture right on the end with the great view.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/24/169.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/24/s_169.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was fun having breakfast with a couple from Istanbul, Turkey and another couple from Wales who have been living in southern Spain for the last 11years. They drove a small rv around Europe and now I want to do that too! <br /> We also met several other Americans and had a great time on the ship and on shore with them. Such interesting and fun people! All in all, a fabulous experience. The only real downer was no internet services on board. They offered 200 minutes for like $50 but we heard it was very slow and spotty satellite service so we did not go for it. As a result, I will be posting four posts today which were written while on the cruise. Today we have left the ship and our cruise has ended. So now we are exploring Copenhagen for a couple of days! More on that later.<br /><br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-21909714612608153342014-05-16T22:49:00.001-07:002014-05-16T22:49:04.607-07:00Ships and submarines<br />Today was an exciting day in Tallin. We struck out to walk to the Sea Plane Harbor which is a marine museum. It was quite a walk but we finally found it. <br />It's a large sea plane hanger housing all kinds of WWII and soviet era guns, mines, torpedoes as well as a full size submarine used by the Soviets.<br />That's the sub on the left below.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1288.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1288.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We got to climb down inside. Some guys apparently had to sleep in the same compartment with the torpedoes.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1289.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1289.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The bunks were tiny like about 51/2ft long and 20 inches wide.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1290.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1290.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />So much equipment it's hard to see the periscope right behind the ladder.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1291.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1291.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Outside they had several small ships you could go on, including an icebreaker.<br /><br />As we were walking to the museum we saw this group of sailors.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1293.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1293.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Turns out they were marching toward their training vessel and were part of the Swedish Navy! Here is their ship below. They sailed it over from Sweden and would soon be taking it on to the Mediterranean . <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1294.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1294.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Lucky for us, they were having an open house and so invited us on board!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1295.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1295.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They were all very sweet young folks who spoke very good English .<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1296.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1296.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We had a great time chatting with them. What a treat! <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1297.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1297.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Tomorrow we will be off on our own ship for 7 nights on our cruise . It is going to be very exciting, but I am not sure that we will have internet access so I might be out of the loop for a while.<br />Strolling back we passed by the Texas Honky Tonk. We went in and had a Lone Star beer and listened to some Willie Nelson. Yes, in case you were wondering, they had nachos, fajitas and even chili rellenos on the menu.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1298.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1298.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Old world charm was just across the street.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1300.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1300.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then, in the main square, what should we find but an exhibition of dancers from Malaysia. First the guys danced,<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/16/1301.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/16/s_1301.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then the girls! I think they were trying to drum up interest in Kuala Lumpur.<br /><br /><p align='center'><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://www.youtube.com/v/WboSsek5B3E" width="400" height="300"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WboSsek5B3E" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><!-- Fallback content --><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WboSsek5B3E"><img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/WboSsek5B3E/0.jpg" width="400" height="300" />YouTube Video</a></object></p>Well, now it's on to Saint Petersburg, Russia! Let's hope I don't get seasick.<br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-44618527478150768222014-05-15T23:23:00.001-07:002014-05-15T23:23:14.108-07:00Touring Tallinn <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/15/1204.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/15/s_1204.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Tallinn, Estonia. Not a place I knew much about. It's an ancient city on the Baltic Sea, dominated by Crusaders, Swedes, Germans, and Soviets in turn. At last they got their freedom in the early nineties and joined the EU half a dozen years ago. It is amazing what they have accomplished in such a short time. Tonight we had dinner in the Hell Hunt Pub, which claims to be the first pub open in Tallinn. That was 1993. We ate some yummy pub grub and watched the Canadians beat the Danes in hockey on a big screen on the wall. Hockey is THE sport in this part of the world. They say Hell Hunt means gentle wolf.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/15/1205.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/15/s_1205.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We walked around the old town today following Rick Steves walking tour from my book. We saw medieval towers and walls,<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/15/1206.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/15/s_1206.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Cobbled streets,<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/15/1207.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/15/s_1207.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />And really old wooden buildings.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/15/1208.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/15/s_1208.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This clock is said to be from the 1600s.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/15/1209.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/15/s_1209.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We went in the Russian Orthodox Church. Very ornate!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/15/1210.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/15/s_1210.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Our apartment is right here in old town but is very modern. It has a dishwasher and a sauna, but sadly, no clothes washer which is what we really love! The curtains are too thin however, because the sun rises really early, like 4 am, and it doesn't get fully dark until nearly 11 pm. Thank goodness for the sleep mask! It is also pretty chilly here, but sunny today, so it was nice! <br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-58391021052759672202014-05-13T22:08:00.001-07:002014-05-13T22:08:48.704-07:00Art and architecture Yesterday we topped off our night by having dinner at a restaurant that serves food prepared according to how food was served in the Middle Ages.<br /><br />The restaurant entrance below.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1229.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1229.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />You went down these stairs into a candlelit stone hall. There were musicians playing medieval instruments . I thought I made a video but alas I was mistaken. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1238.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1238.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The menu was interesting. Thank goodness it was in English.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1239.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1239.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I got fried beans (left) and some kind of tomato grits pie. Very interesting and good too!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1240.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1240.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />No telling how old this place might be! Loved it!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1241.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1241.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Walking the short block home we passed these old city buildings in the town hall square. Very ornate!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1242.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1242.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Today we were in for a great day of touring Riga. We did a two hour walking tour with a guide and learned so many interesting things as well as meeting some fascinating people. We were the only Americans on the tour along with people from Tasmania, Denmark, Croatia, Germany , a single Korean girl, and two retired ladies from Thailand! Our Latvian guide was very knowledgeable and spoke good English. At the end of the tour, they gave us tiny glasses of the national drink called Black Balsam. It had lots of herb flavors so I liked it!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1243.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1243.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />After the tour we walked through the beautiful park<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1244.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1244.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1245.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1245.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />to the area of town where the beautiful art nouveau buildings were located. These buildings are the largest collection of art nouveau buildings in Europe, over 800 facades. This is the reason Riga was declared a Unesco World Heritage site.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1246.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1246.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This was the absolute best one of the incredible buildings we saw walking around several blocks. Truly amazing. Riga surprised me. I'm not ready to leave tomorrow as there are so many things I did not get to see.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1247.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1247.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We also went to a restored art nouveau home and toured the interior.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1248.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1248.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Docents were in costume.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1249.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1249.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The spiral staircase going up was pretty cool.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1250.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1250.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The view out the bedroom window of the house across the street.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1251.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1251.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />My selfie!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/1252.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_1252.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Tomorrow it's back to the bus station and on to Tallinn, Estonia!<br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4418191174333665621.post-23548329130970018162014-05-13T10:51:00.001-07:002014-05-13T10:51:02.092-07:00That place you've never heard ofI would venture to guess that most folks in the US might find it difficult to locate little Latvia on a map. After all it is only the size of West Virginia. Having arrived here to the main city of Riga yesterday, I have to say, Latvia seems pretty cool! The apartment we have is right in old town in a great location. Good job, Bill! There is a sign outside that says " Peter was here" in three languages so we have decided that it means Peter the Great probably lived here and indeed, that he had our very apartment as his quarters! We are pretty sure it was his favorite place to stay. We are in the pink building behind the tree second floor.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/9.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_9.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I made a little video tour for your enjoyment but it is too big to upload so let me work on that and I'll get back to you with it. : )<br /><br />We went out exploring a bit today. It's basically all reconstructions, since, like the other places we have been, it has been devastated by war.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/534.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_534.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />There are still quite a few crumbling buildings. I think people were living in the yellow buildings in the middle, though. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/535.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_535.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Amber is everywhere here as it is a very popular commodity in this area of the world. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/537.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_537.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />After World War One there were some dirigible hangers left here. Weird! They turned them into a massive public market. The first one we went in was all meat. It was pretty offal. That is a pun and possibly an oxymoron too! Darn but I am good! The next was cheese, bread and honey with elaborate candles made from beeswax, then fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Lastly was the fish market. I've been to fish markets before in Thailand, Barcelona, and Seattle, but this was intense. Honestly, some of the fish were ugly and scary looking, also they had tanks with live fish and they would just fling them out on the display cases wiggling and gasping, plus sorry, but I just don't think of eels as edible, even big giant ones. Well, there was more but I will spare you. Thankfully, we never found the squid. I was glad to exit and head out to the square for some refreshments. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/538.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_538.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Turns out there was some action on the square, people with signs, police and fire trucks. I was leery, as I usually make it a practice to steer clear of protests. Bill pointed out that there seemed to be an inordinate number of grandmother aged women in the crowded and they did not seem overly concerned.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/540.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_540.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />So we sat down and asked our waitress what was going on. She told us the local teachers were rallying for a pay raise. That's when I noticed that a number of them seemed to be blowing whistles as part of their "demonstration". I assume from this that the coaches want a raise too. Interesting!<br />Palomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051252049272524920noreply@blogger.com0