Tuesday, September 28, 2010
The Lesser Known Pike Place Market
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
America's Birthday. Yee Haw!
Here is a recipe for you. Take equal parts Rocky Mountains, horseback riding, mountain biking, golf, and blend with extra doses of friends, food, and sunshine. What you get is a fantastic way to spend the Fourth of July. B & I were fortunate to stay with friends in Steamboat Springs, CO for the past five days. We arrived in Steamboat on July 2nd... It's a hub of activities, whether in the winter or the summer, and the nine of us took advantage of all the opportunities to play as much as we soaked in the vitamin D into our pale West Coast skin. The beauty of our surroundings, the afternoon thunderclouds and windstorms, and the joking and laughter of good friends are terrific ways to rejuvenate. But this isn't unique to Steamboat, and not the topic I'll writing about today. What I will be sharing is how this small ski town provided the perfect example of the topic of what the quintessential Independence Day experience could be.
Steamboat isn't very large, but like many other Smalltown, USA's, they host a parade on the Fourth to celebrate. Everybody shows up to mainstreet to watch. We were no different-- there we were, sitting on the sidewalk, watching the cowboys show off their horses, waving at the folks sitting on top a truck bed, or lauging at the people crossing the street, oblivious to the horse manure they were stepping in. The firemen came by, asking us to fill their boots for charity. The local sheriff and his competitor were out, campaigning to stay/become the next chief law enforcer. Being a small parade, there were no big floats, and no big egos. It was perfect.
After getting our fill of the parade, a few of us decided to got the Alpine slide, and sled down the mountain in a cheap, plastic sled... I know this isn't your typical 4th of July activity, but I have a video I wanted to share regardless (I'll post it here soon). Plus, from our vantage point on the crest of the hill, we had a great angle to see the Air Force jets do their flyover. That's patriotic, right?
Fast forward a few hours... we've returned back to the house for lunch. By this time the storm clouds are starting to form, but we will not be deterred. We have a rodeo to go to. So we grab our rain jackets and cross our fingers, hoping that the weather is all bark and no bite. We head back to town, and settle into the uncoverd grandstands, and the next thing you know, we're cheering for the gentlemen crazy/ballsy/cowboy enough to ride a bucking stallion bareback for 8 seconds. Or wrestle a calf to the ground. Or for the poor calf who was stampeded by a gaggle of children (ages 6-12 only mind you), trying to grab the ribbon around its tail. And we would have stayed for the remaining events had Mama Nature not decided to throw a hissy fit. Sure, we are from Seattle and could sit in the rain. But then the wind came. And the rain became cold, soaked jeans. So, we made an executive decision to "cowboy down", and head home to the inviting warmth of a fireplace and traditional 7/4 fare over a barbeque grill- hot dots, burgers, and ice cream.
Lastly, what would Independence Day be without explosions? Let me tell you, Steamboat Springs throws a mean fireworks show (Thanks to you, Gordon family, whoever you are, for sponsoring.) From atop a neighboring hill, we parked our cars and tuned our radio to the local country station to listen to the music montage accompaning the visual display of colored phosphorous and gun powder.
Yes, indeed this was Fourth of July to remember. A parade, rodeo, grilled food, and fireworks. Every part of this day felt like a Norman Rockwell painting. And it was all authentic. No pretenses, no gimmicks, just a small town, local folk and tourists alike, celebrating the 234th year anniversary of a bunch of old, rich, white guys signing a handwritten document elegantly telling the Brits to "Suck it Trebek". It was a grand ol' day to wave our grand ol' flag, and I for one was proud (and appreciative) to be an American.
(A personal shout out to the Burns, the Boyles, Clarks, and Lt. Corey. Of all the great things this weekend, you guys were the best of all. Thanks! -- S&B)
Steamboat isn't very large, but like many other Smalltown, USA's, they host a parade on the Fourth to celebrate. Everybody shows up to mainstreet to watch. We were no different-- there we were, sitting on the sidewalk, watching the cowboys show off their horses, waving at the folks sitting on top a truck bed, or lauging at the people crossing the street, oblivious to the horse manure they were stepping in. The firemen came by, asking us to fill their boots for charity. The local sheriff and his competitor were out, campaigning to stay/become the next chief law enforcer. Being a small parade, there were no big floats, and no big egos. It was perfect.
After getting our fill of the parade, a few of us decided to got the Alpine slide, and sled down the mountain in a cheap, plastic sled... I know this isn't your typical 4th of July activity, but I have a video I wanted to share regardless (I'll post it here soon). Plus, from our vantage point on the crest of the hill, we had a great angle to see the Air Force jets do their flyover. That's patriotic, right?
Fast forward a few hours... we've returned back to the house for lunch. By this time the storm clouds are starting to form, but we will not be deterred. We have a rodeo to go to. So we grab our rain jackets and cross our fingers, hoping that the weather is all bark and no bite. We head back to town, and settle into the uncoverd grandstands, and the next thing you know, we're cheering for the gentlemen crazy/ballsy/cowboy enough to ride a bucking stallion bareback for 8 seconds. Or wrestle a calf to the ground. Or for the poor calf who was stampeded by a gaggle of children (ages 6-12 only mind you), trying to grab the ribbon around its tail. And we would have stayed for the remaining events had Mama Nature not decided to throw a hissy fit. Sure, we are from Seattle and could sit in the rain. But then the wind came. And the rain became cold, soaked jeans. So, we made an executive decision to "cowboy down", and head home to the inviting warmth of a fireplace and traditional 7/4 fare over a barbeque grill- hot dots, burgers, and ice cream.
Lastly, what would Independence Day be without explosions? Let me tell you, Steamboat Springs throws a mean fireworks show (Thanks to you, Gordon family, whoever you are, for sponsoring.) From atop a neighboring hill, we parked our cars and tuned our radio to the local country station to listen to the music montage accompaning the visual display of colored phosphorous and gun powder.
Yes, indeed this was Fourth of July to remember. A parade, rodeo, grilled food, and fireworks. Every part of this day felt like a Norman Rockwell painting. And it was all authentic. No pretenses, no gimmicks, just a small town, local folk and tourists alike, celebrating the 234th year anniversary of a bunch of old, rich, white guys signing a handwritten document elegantly telling the Brits to "Suck it Trebek". It was a grand ol' day to wave our grand ol' flag, and I for one was proud (and appreciative) to be an American.
(A personal shout out to the Burns, the Boyles, Clarks, and Lt. Corey. Of all the great things this weekend, you guys were the best of all. Thanks! -- S&B)
Monday, May 31, 2010
Five Faves
May 31st. Already. Wow. Where does the time go? In a blink of an eye, I've got from New Years and unemployed to a day off from work on Memorial Day. I feel a touch of Rip Van Winkle-ness in my life, especially when it comes to this site. But hey, I'm here now, right?
For me, life has settled into a routine revolving around Tucker, work, and my DVR. It's a bit sad to say that out loud. And even sadder is that I'm pulling B down with me. But it's so hard not too, especially when I'm working with a client, or when my dog is scratching at the door (and walls), or when the Seattle skies are constantly grey and Top Chef is on. So goes my life.
The one thing that B & I have continued on a constant basis is to explore the local restaurants in Seattle, in search for our next favorite dining joint. So for today's post, I thought I would do a top 5 of my favorite food related places in the area.
#5. BLUE SAUCER - This lil' coffee shop on Roosevelt resides in the lil' neighborhood of Maple Leaf. The ML is often overshadowed by it's bigger and more boisterous brothers - Green Lake and Northgate. But there is a great community here, and the Blue Saucer is in the thick of it. The Blue Saucer not only serves up a great cup of Stumptown, but they bring in local pastries for great bakeries around the area (Macrina, Essential to name a couple). But what puts it over the top is how they try to keep things fresh, whether by bringing in an ice cream truck (Parfait), having coffee tastings, or have a community garage sale. So grab a latte, plop down on the bench seat, and groove to the Beatles. (I'm actually sitting at the Saucer right now, typing this entry.)
#4. MOLLY MOON'S- Speaking of ice cream, B & I are addicted to Molly Moon's. Located in Wallingford and Capital Hill, this place makes fantastic ice cream, of both traditional (chocolate, strawberry, vanilla) and contemporary flavors (meyer lemon, coconut curry, maple bacon). Rain or shine, it doesn't matter- you mention MM's, we'll be game. Even if we just had a nine course dinner. Besides, with the line commonly out the door and down the block, we'll have plenty of time to digest.
#3. BALLARD FARMERS MARKET- We don't frequent this market on a weekly basis, but maybe a monthly basis? I haven't been to a ton of farmer markets in Seattle, but enough to know that it's the largest and most food related one around. Great people, the freshest of food, and pretty easy to navigate. Oh, and of course, lots of samples to try. As an added bonus, a bunch of great restaurants and stores border the edges of the market, so it makes for a window (and stall) shopping mecca.
#2. TILTH- Yum. Yum. Yum. Yum. Yum. No matter what you order, this is what will come out of your mouth after every bite. Don't let the portion size fool you. You will leave Maria Hine's haven of scrumptious entrees with a smile on your face and warmth in your belly. Tilth is what I envision heaven's food to be like. The freshest ingredients, prepared in ways that can only make you crave it even more. Yum.
#1. DELANCEY- My favorite pizza. Period. Like Tilth, this place has gotten a lot of press over the past few years. And it's well deserved. I have to admit, I have a little food crush on Molly. I originally learned of her through her food blog, Orangette. But since then, I've gotten a little food crush on her husband Brandon too. Not only did he build his restaurant by hand, he has developed one of the best pizza crusts ever. It sets the stage, the foundation, for the delectable ingredients they choose to top the dish. If I could, and if B would let me, I would eat here every week. I like it that much.
So there you have it. Five of my favorite food places in Seattle. Believe me, there are a lot more places. But I'll just have to save those for a future post. And I promise that the next post won't be two months from now. :-)
For me, life has settled into a routine revolving around Tucker, work, and my DVR. It's a bit sad to say that out loud. And even sadder is that I'm pulling B down with me. But it's so hard not too, especially when I'm working with a client, or when my dog is scratching at the door (and walls), or when the Seattle skies are constantly grey and Top Chef is on. So goes my life.
The one thing that B & I have continued on a constant basis is to explore the local restaurants in Seattle, in search for our next favorite dining joint. So for today's post, I thought I would do a top 5 of my favorite food related places in the area.
#5. BLUE SAUCER - This lil' coffee shop on Roosevelt resides in the lil' neighborhood of Maple Leaf. The ML is often overshadowed by it's bigger and more boisterous brothers - Green Lake and Northgate. But there is a great community here, and the Blue Saucer is in the thick of it. The Blue Saucer not only serves up a great cup of Stumptown, but they bring in local pastries for great bakeries around the area (Macrina, Essential to name a couple). But what puts it over the top is how they try to keep things fresh, whether by bringing in an ice cream truck (Parfait), having coffee tastings, or have a community garage sale. So grab a latte, plop down on the bench seat, and groove to the Beatles. (I'm actually sitting at the Saucer right now, typing this entry.)
#4. MOLLY MOON'S- Speaking of ice cream, B & I are addicted to Molly Moon's. Located in Wallingford and Capital Hill, this place makes fantastic ice cream, of both traditional (chocolate, strawberry, vanilla) and contemporary flavors (meyer lemon, coconut curry, maple bacon). Rain or shine, it doesn't matter- you mention MM's, we'll be game. Even if we just had a nine course dinner. Besides, with the line commonly out the door and down the block, we'll have plenty of time to digest.
#3. BALLARD FARMERS MARKET- We don't frequent this market on a weekly basis, but maybe a monthly basis? I haven't been to a ton of farmer markets in Seattle, but enough to know that it's the largest and most food related one around. Great people, the freshest of food, and pretty easy to navigate. Oh, and of course, lots of samples to try. As an added bonus, a bunch of great restaurants and stores border the edges of the market, so it makes for a window (and stall) shopping mecca.
#2. TILTH- Yum. Yum. Yum. Yum. Yum. No matter what you order, this is what will come out of your mouth after every bite. Don't let the portion size fool you. You will leave Maria Hine's haven of scrumptious entrees with a smile on your face and warmth in your belly. Tilth is what I envision heaven's food to be like. The freshest ingredients, prepared in ways that can only make you crave it even more. Yum.
#1. DELANCEY- My favorite pizza. Period. Like Tilth, this place has gotten a lot of press over the past few years. And it's well deserved. I have to admit, I have a little food crush on Molly. I originally learned of her through her food blog, Orangette. But since then, I've gotten a little food crush on her husband Brandon too. Not only did he build his restaurant by hand, he has developed one of the best pizza crusts ever. It sets the stage, the foundation, for the delectable ingredients they choose to top the dish. If I could, and if B would let me, I would eat here every week. I like it that much.
So there you have it. Five of my favorite food places in Seattle. Believe me, there are a lot more places. But I'll just have to save those for a future post. And I promise that the next post won't be two months from now. :-)
Monday, March 8, 2010
Len
Logging into this site, I realized that it's been six weeks since I last posted something here. For me, blogging usually is a very fickle thing. There are times that I have much to write about (especially when I travel), and other times when life is ordinary and I have nothing to share (nor the motivation). In this case however, the reason for my absence has been because life has taken a sad turn over the past few months, only concluded early last week.
On Monday, we had a memorial service for Leonard "Len" Olsen, my girlfriend's father. After being diagnosed with brain cancer in October, he battled it until his death a month ago today (Feb. 8th). During this time, through the surgeries, chemo, and radiation, I never once heard him complain. Obviously, there were times of sadness, but we all grieved together. And for us, the friends and family, we still had time to say our goodbyes to our good friend/husband/father/grandfather before he passed.
It was about four years ago when I met this man who was quiet in nature and big of heart. From the first time that we met, he welcomed me with a firm handshake and and twinkle in his eye. Although soft-spoken, Len had a gift of befriending people, as was evident by his high number of friends at church, the mall, or Lions Club. He loved to joke with people, often with a tease and a smile. Even until the end, when he was bed-ridden and weak, we were able to laugh with him, seeing the corners of his mouth pull into a faint grin and the familiar twinkle would reappear.
One of the things I had been most impressed with over the past few months has been how blessed Len and Pat (his wife) are with relationships in their lives. Never before have I seen so many caring friends and family stop by to say hello, drop off a meal, or to chat. While staying at the hospital, I swear there were days that I believe Len to be more exhausted from playing "host" than from the illness. If there is one thing that this entire experience has taught me, it is that you can never have too many friends.
Another example of his ability to make friends is a story that I recently heard. Len was a proud mall walker, having daily walked at Everett Mall with his good friends Dick and John for almost 13 years. In that time, the group grew from the three men to nearly 20 people of various ages. So when Len started staying at the hospital, we'd hear from Dick that not only were the other fellow mall walkers asking about him, but so were the security guards, infomation desk gals, and the delivery guys.
I guess the last thing I have to say is that I've been proud to stand with the Olsen family during this entire ordeal. It was an honor for me to be able to laugh, grieve, help, and pray with this family. For that, I certainly am thankful.
On Monday, we had a memorial service for Leonard "Len" Olsen, my girlfriend's father. After being diagnosed with brain cancer in October, he battled it until his death a month ago today (Feb. 8th). During this time, through the surgeries, chemo, and radiation, I never once heard him complain. Obviously, there were times of sadness, but we all grieved together. And for us, the friends and family, we still had time to say our goodbyes to our good friend/husband/father/grandfather before he passed.
It was about four years ago when I met this man who was quiet in nature and big of heart. From the first time that we met, he welcomed me with a firm handshake and and twinkle in his eye. Although soft-spoken, Len had a gift of befriending people, as was evident by his high number of friends at church, the mall, or Lions Club. He loved to joke with people, often with a tease and a smile. Even until the end, when he was bed-ridden and weak, we were able to laugh with him, seeing the corners of his mouth pull into a faint grin and the familiar twinkle would reappear.
One of the things I had been most impressed with over the past few months has been how blessed Len and Pat (his wife) are with relationships in their lives. Never before have I seen so many caring friends and family stop by to say hello, drop off a meal, or to chat. While staying at the hospital, I swear there were days that I believe Len to be more exhausted from playing "host" than from the illness. If there is one thing that this entire experience has taught me, it is that you can never have too many friends.
Another example of his ability to make friends is a story that I recently heard. Len was a proud mall walker, having daily walked at Everett Mall with his good friends Dick and John for almost 13 years. In that time, the group grew from the three men to nearly 20 people of various ages. So when Len started staying at the hospital, we'd hear from Dick that not only were the other fellow mall walkers asking about him, but so were the security guards, infomation desk gals, and the delivery guys.
I guess the last thing I have to say is that I've been proud to stand with the Olsen family during this entire ordeal. It was an honor for me to be able to laugh, grieve, help, and pray with this family. For that, I certainly am thankful.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Of Omelette Pans and Savory Goodness
I'll be honest... With all the travel, holidays, Tucker, and remodeling at my house right now, I haven't been in the mood to cook. But since I haven't posted food related entry for a while, I thought I would try to conjure up something to write about.
For those of you who may have been visiting this site for a while, you know I love to cook. Along with that, I love the gear that goes with cooking. And in my mind, one of the essential things to own is a great, nonstick omelette pan. I've have mine for over six years now, and the nonstick finish is, well, finished. No longer does it release my eggs with a graceful flick of the wrists. Now, it needs to be scraped off with that of a spatula and chisel.
But do not fret, for I have a solution! It is -- a new omelette pan! I know, I know, a bit anti-climatic. But the reason I bring this up is because I have actually had it's replacement sitting in my attic, waiting for this very moment. And the reason it was sitting in the attic was because when I purchased my original pans, Calphalon was phasing out my line of pots and pans. This allowed me to purchase a couple replacement pans at super cheap prices, knowing full well that the nonstick finish wouldn't last forever. And so it hasn't. And so, I have a new pan that's been waiting to take its place. (So here's my tip- if you like nonstick cookware, keep your eye out for bargain sales. You may not need the replacement at that time, but you can literally save hundreds of dollars if you buy it on sale/clearance.)
For those of you who may have been visiting this site for a while, you know I love to cook. Along with that, I love the gear that goes with cooking. And in my mind, one of the essential things to own is a great, nonstick omelette pan. I've have mine for over six years now, and the nonstick finish is, well, finished. No longer does it release my eggs with a graceful flick of the wrists. Now, it needs to be scraped off with that of a spatula and chisel.
But do not fret, for I have a solution! It is -- a new omelette pan! I know, I know, a bit anti-climatic. But the reason I bring this up is because I have actually had it's replacement sitting in my attic, waiting for this very moment. And the reason it was sitting in the attic was because when I purchased my original pans, Calphalon was phasing out my line of pots and pans. This allowed me to purchase a couple replacement pans at super cheap prices, knowing full well that the nonstick finish wouldn't last forever. And so it hasn't. And so, I have a new pan that's been waiting to take its place. (So here's my tip- if you like nonstick cookware, keep your eye out for bargain sales. You may not need the replacement at that time, but you can literally save hundreds of dollars if you buy it on sale/clearance.)
So to initiate my new replacement pan, I decided to make one of my favorite comfort foods. Mind you, this is a VERY basic dish.But I don't think that's a bad thing. I believe everybody has their super-easy, make in 10 seconds, comfort dish. It's along the lines of cinnamon/sugar toast, bowls of cereal, or crackers and cheese. For me, it's sunny-side up eggs on white rice with soy sauce.
Now, before you judge me, hear me out. The combination of the three ingredients in this dish come together to make what I consider an Asian simplified version of Italian carbonara. See, first you place the egg on the rice, and drizzle a bit of soy on top. They you break the yolks and mix it into the hot rice. As the yolk coats the rice, the heat from the rice cooks it into a savory goodness. As you eat it, it warms your body and fills your belly.
So now that you know one of my go-to quick fixes, tell me what you like to whip up and eat when you're having that certain craving.
Friday, January 15, 2010
A Big List
This will probably be my last post (I think) about Antarctica... and it's more for the gear heads out there.
Since I went to Buenos Aires first, I thought I would have to pack for summer and winter. In hindsight, I could have simply packed for winter and brought one pair of shorts and been fine. But regardless, here's what I brought. Also, remember that I tend to overpack, so I will try to highlight the neccessities.
Things I used:
CLOTHES:
Regular Attire
• Tshirts
• underwear, socks
• 2 pairs of jeans (only needed one)
• 3 pairs of shorts (only needed one)
• board shorts
• zip off legs pants
• Merrells Ventilator Shoes
Snow Attire
• 2 sets of Patagonia Capilene polypro top and bottoms
• Mountain Hardwear Windstopper Fleece (thick)
• North Face Windstopper Pullover (thin)
• Arc'teryx Gore-tex hard shell
• North Face Gore-tex ski pants
• North Face windblock pants
• Swix Wool Hat
• 4 pairs ski socks, 2 pair sock liners (I wore the 1 pair sock liners and 2 pairs of ski socks for excursions.)
• OR Vert gloves (awesome for photography)
• OR Gore-tex Ascent gloves (only used once, but if it had rained more I would have used them more)
• Mountain Hardwear puffy jacket (compacts into a very small stuff sack, great for being on the outside upper decks of the ship)
• Seirus Neofleece Comfort Masque (great for the cold wind)
TECH and CAMERA
• Lenovo Thinkpad T400s laptop
• 2 Western Digital 500GB external hard drives
• Microsoft Wireless USB Mouse (nice for photo editing)
• LowePro camera bag (placed inside backpack for water protection)
• Nikon D300s DSLR (primary)
• Nikon D50 DSLR (backup- didn't use it, but would still bring it next time)
• Canon SD900 point and shoot camera
• Nikkor 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED
• Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 VR
• Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX
• Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D DX
• Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6
• Nikon Speedlight SB-600 flash
• Induro Adventure Series AB0 tripod
• Kata camera rain cover
• Circular polarizers
• lens brush
• camera/laptop battery chargers
MISCELLANIOUS
• PASSPORT
• Rupert the Gnome
• toiletries
• Polarized Smith Diablo sunglasses
• contacts
• glasses
• Bible
• chapstick
• eye mask (for sleeping)
• Dry Bag (for inside backpack- not sure if needed, but a cheap insurance policy to protect my camera gear)
• large ziploc bags
• backpack (would bring smaller one next time)
• seasickness patch (prescription)
• power plug adapter (not a convertor)
• footbeds/insoles (recommended! from an old pair of running shoes for rubber boots)
DIDN'T USE/NEED
• water bottle (bottled water was available everywhere in BA, and the ship had it readily available)
• 2 books (too much other stuff to do)
• fleece neck gaiter
• black leather shoes (Buenos Aires is pretty casual)
• dress shirts
• tshirts (brought too many)
• sunscreen (bought some there, didn't use)
• flip flops
• laundry detergent
• hand/foot warmers (I didn't need these, but I know people who used them)
• mini-power strip
• earplugs
• binoculars
• DVD movies/shows
• camera grey card
• neutral density filters (torn on this... didn't use it, but not very heavy, would consider bringing again)
Since I went to Buenos Aires first, I thought I would have to pack for summer and winter. In hindsight, I could have simply packed for winter and brought one pair of shorts and been fine. But regardless, here's what I brought. Also, remember that I tend to overpack, so I will try to highlight the neccessities.
Things I used:
CLOTHES:
Regular Attire
• Tshirts
• underwear, socks
• 2 pairs of jeans (only needed one)
• 3 pairs of shorts (only needed one)
• board shorts
• zip off legs pants
• Merrells Ventilator Shoes
Snow Attire
• 2 sets of Patagonia Capilene polypro top and bottoms
• Mountain Hardwear Windstopper Fleece (thick)
• North Face Windstopper Pullover (thin)
• Arc'teryx Gore-tex hard shell
• North Face Gore-tex ski pants
• North Face windblock pants
• Swix Wool Hat
• 4 pairs ski socks, 2 pair sock liners (I wore the 1 pair sock liners and 2 pairs of ski socks for excursions.)
• OR Vert gloves (awesome for photography)
• OR Gore-tex Ascent gloves (only used once, but if it had rained more I would have used them more)
• Mountain Hardwear puffy jacket (compacts into a very small stuff sack, great for being on the outside upper decks of the ship)
• Seirus Neofleece Comfort Masque (great for the cold wind)
TECH and CAMERA
• Lenovo Thinkpad T400s laptop
• 2 Western Digital 500GB external hard drives
• Microsoft Wireless USB Mouse (nice for photo editing)
• LowePro camera bag (placed inside backpack for water protection)
• Nikon D300s DSLR (primary)
• Nikon D50 DSLR (backup- didn't use it, but would still bring it next time)
• Canon SD900 point and shoot camera
• Nikkor 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED
• Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 VR
• Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX
• Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D DX
• Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6
• Nikon Speedlight SB-600 flash
• Induro Adventure Series AB0 tripod
• Kata camera rain cover
• Circular polarizers
• lens brush
• camera/laptop battery chargers
MISCELLANIOUS
• PASSPORT
• Rupert the Gnome
• toiletries
• Polarized Smith Diablo sunglasses
• contacts
• glasses
• Bible
• chapstick
• eye mask (for sleeping)
• Dry Bag (for inside backpack- not sure if needed, but a cheap insurance policy to protect my camera gear)
• large ziploc bags
• backpack (would bring smaller one next time)
• seasickness patch (prescription)
• power plug adapter (not a convertor)
• footbeds/insoles (recommended! from an old pair of running shoes for rubber boots)
DIDN'T USE/NEED
• water bottle (bottled water was available everywhere in BA, and the ship had it readily available)
• 2 books (too much other stuff to do)
• fleece neck gaiter
• black leather shoes (Buenos Aires is pretty casual)
• dress shirts
• tshirts (brought too many)
• sunscreen (bought some there, didn't use)
• flip flops
• laundry detergent
• hand/foot warmers (I didn't need these, but I know people who used them)
• mini-power strip
• earplugs
• binoculars
• DVD movies/shows
• camera grey card
• neutral density filters (torn on this... didn't use it, but not very heavy, would consider bringing again)
Friday, January 8, 2010
Puppy Parenting
Although it still weirds me out a little when people refer to me as Tucker's "daddy", I've now been a puppy parent for almost three weeks. Having never had a dog before, it's been (continues to be) an experience. I anticipated a lot of work in raising the little guy, but I still underestimated it. And from what I've gathered, he's a well behaved puppy. But a puppy nonetheless. Which is a good thing about 90% of the time.
Some random things I've been experiencing so far.
1. My sleep schedule is completely screwed up (early to bed, early to rise makes Spencer a sleepier person than he already is).
2. I really do feel like a parent. Putting him to bed is like putting a child to bed. He can be dead tired, but as soon as it's time to sleep, he gets uber hyper and wants to play. It's hilarious and exhausting at the same time. For example, as soon as his four little paws touch my comforter (yes, he sleeps on my bed. Please don't judge me.), he starts digging. I don't exactly know why, but he'll have a burst of intense digging, with intervals of rest, then he'll start again. This is usually coupled with the laps around the tv room and my bedroom.
3. I think of myself as a person with a lot of patience. But there are definitely times where those limits are pushed. It's humbling. And makes me hope that this will simply make me even more patient when I have kids some day.
4. I'm a sucker for puppy eyes. Sometimes I look into the dark pools of melancholy when he's sitting there, and it breaks my heart. For example, right after he's played with his siblings (a friend of mine has his older sister and litter brother) and they have gone home, he looks for them. You can tell he misses them. Reading his eyes kill me everytime.
5. I love the way he sleeps. I don't care if you're not a dog person. Watching him sleep (and dream sometimes) and seeing how cute he is... as my brother says "you just want to eat him up!". (Hopefully he doesn't mean figuratively. Of course, we are Chinese. I kid, I kid.)
6. I have become that guy. That guy who not only picks up the poo, but carries it for another mile. At least I've been trying to fight becoming the guy who only talks about one thing: his dog/child/car/job/etc.
7. It's been fun watching him grow up. This past week he started responding to his name. Plus he's gotten to know B and I. He now comes over and sits at our feet, or rests his head on our leg, just so he can be petted or held. It's very enduring (he's actually came over as I was typing this and laid down).
8. After reading the previous 7 items, he's made me sappier too I think.
So that's where I am with the puppy raising. Overall, Tucker's been a blast. And for the times he's not, I've been trying to remind myself to enjoy his time as a puppy, and that all this work is to make him an awesome adult dog later...
Some random things I've been experiencing so far.
1. My sleep schedule is completely screwed up (early to bed, early to rise makes Spencer a sleepier person than he already is).
2. I really do feel like a parent. Putting him to bed is like putting a child to bed. He can be dead tired, but as soon as it's time to sleep, he gets uber hyper and wants to play. It's hilarious and exhausting at the same time. For example, as soon as his four little paws touch my comforter (yes, he sleeps on my bed. Please don't judge me.), he starts digging. I don't exactly know why, but he'll have a burst of intense digging, with intervals of rest, then he'll start again. This is usually coupled with the laps around the tv room and my bedroom.
3. I think of myself as a person with a lot of patience. But there are definitely times where those limits are pushed. It's humbling. And makes me hope that this will simply make me even more patient when I have kids some day.
4. I'm a sucker for puppy eyes. Sometimes I look into the dark pools of melancholy when he's sitting there, and it breaks my heart. For example, right after he's played with his siblings (a friend of mine has his older sister and litter brother) and they have gone home, he looks for them. You can tell he misses them. Reading his eyes kill me everytime.
5. I love the way he sleeps. I don't care if you're not a dog person. Watching him sleep (and dream sometimes) and seeing how cute he is... as my brother says "you just want to eat him up!". (Hopefully he doesn't mean figuratively. Of course, we are Chinese. I kid, I kid.)
6. I have become that guy. That guy who not only picks up the poo, but carries it for another mile. At least I've been trying to fight becoming the guy who only talks about one thing: his dog/child/car/job/etc.
7. It's been fun watching him grow up. This past week he started responding to his name. Plus he's gotten to know B and I. He now comes over and sits at our feet, or rests his head on our leg, just so he can be petted or held. It's very enduring (he's actually came over as I was typing this and laid down).
8. After reading the previous 7 items, he's made me sappier too I think.
So that's where I am with the puppy raising. Overall, Tucker's been a blast. And for the times he's not, I've been trying to remind myself to enjoy his time as a puppy, and that all this work is to make him an awesome adult dog later...
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Lessons Learned
Since I've been back for a couple weeks now, I thought I would share some tips I've learned on this trip... For those of you who may stumble upon this blog because you're interested in going to Antarctica, feel free to drop me a line. I'd love to share more info with you.
All right, here we go.
1. I am an over-packer. This isn't a new lesson, but I still make the mistake every time. For this specific trip, I fooled myself because I thought I had to pack for hot and cold climates since I was heading to Buenos Aires first. In reality, if I had packed 1 pair of shorts, 4 tshirts, and my cold weather gear, I would have been fine. People on the ship don't care if you wear the same thing everyday. Just make sure to shower.
2. Be prepared to get wet. Since it's summer down in Antarctica, it may not get cold enough to snow. Plus, when riding in the zodiacs, you can get wet from spray as well.
3. In concert with #2, bring gear to protect your camera from the wet. I used a Kata Rain Cover when taking pictures. Although there are a few little nuisances, overall it worked pretty well in the rainy whether. For the budget minded, here is a simple substitute I learned on the ship- for DSLRs, it can be as simple as poking two holes in the bottom of a ziploc bag, running your camera strap through the holes, and placing the camera inside. Then when you need to take a picture, simply "unzip" the bag so your lens has an opening to take the picture.
4. Some people used thicker ski gloves, but I found thin but warm ones made photography much easier. I used these OR Vert gloves and they rocked.
5. If you're going on a cruise, try to socialize with your fellow passengers of all ages, backgrounds, and demographics. I know that's hard for introverts, but it's much more fun when you know the people you're with. Plus, it'll help pass the time on the Drake faster.
6. Try to do something different. Go camping. Go kayaking. Do the Plunge. It'll make for a cool story later, and make your life much richer now.
7. I know I mentioned that I tend to overpack, but one thing I am glad I brought was my computer and assorted gear. I was able to organize and edit my pictures during my free time, as well as type up my blog entries. In addition, I brought 2 external hard drives so I could back up my photos.
8. If you have a video feature on your camera, use it. I find myself looking at the few videos I took during the trip, and wish I had more. As a bonus: if you have a tripod, use it for the video. Mine look like I was still on the Drake Passage even though I was on solid ground.
9. I love photography. But at some point(s) during the trip, take a moment to look around without looking through your camera's viewfinder/LCD display. Savor that moment. Remember the crispness of the air, the size of the glacier, the humor of watching the penguins, and the beauty that surrounds you. This is why you came to Antarctica.
All right, here we go.
1. I am an over-packer. This isn't a new lesson, but I still make the mistake every time. For this specific trip, I fooled myself because I thought I had to pack for hot and cold climates since I was heading to Buenos Aires first. In reality, if I had packed 1 pair of shorts, 4 tshirts, and my cold weather gear, I would have been fine. People on the ship don't care if you wear the same thing everyday. Just make sure to shower.
2. Be prepared to get wet. Since it's summer down in Antarctica, it may not get cold enough to snow. Plus, when riding in the zodiacs, you can get wet from spray as well.
3. In concert with #2, bring gear to protect your camera from the wet. I used a Kata Rain Cover when taking pictures. Although there are a few little nuisances, overall it worked pretty well in the rainy whether. For the budget minded, here is a simple substitute I learned on the ship- for DSLRs, it can be as simple as poking two holes in the bottom of a ziploc bag, running your camera strap through the holes, and placing the camera inside. Then when you need to take a picture, simply "unzip" the bag so your lens has an opening to take the picture.
4. Some people used thicker ski gloves, but I found thin but warm ones made photography much easier. I used these OR Vert gloves and they rocked.
5. If you're going on a cruise, try to socialize with your fellow passengers of all ages, backgrounds, and demographics. I know that's hard for introverts, but it's much more fun when you know the people you're with. Plus, it'll help pass the time on the Drake faster.
6. Try to do something different. Go camping. Go kayaking. Do the Plunge. It'll make for a cool story later, and make your life much richer now.
7. I know I mentioned that I tend to overpack, but one thing I am glad I brought was my computer and assorted gear. I was able to organize and edit my pictures during my free time, as well as type up my blog entries. In addition, I brought 2 external hard drives so I could back up my photos.
8. If you have a video feature on your camera, use it. I find myself looking at the few videos I took during the trip, and wish I had more. As a bonus: if you have a tripod, use it for the video. Mine look like I was still on the Drake Passage even though I was on solid ground.
9. I love photography. But at some point(s) during the trip, take a moment to look around without looking through your camera's viewfinder/LCD display. Savor that moment. Remember the crispness of the air, the size of the glacier, the humor of watching the penguins, and the beauty that surrounds you. This is why you came to Antarctica.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)