So You Want to Be an Astronaut

Been a while since I posted...

2012-01-23T16:32:00.003-07:00

It seems the fashion of the day has lent itself away from blogs... Facebook and Twitter are a much more connected and immediate mediums for thoughts of fancy. I'll try to continue this blog but with hopefully more introspective content than what's on the social networking sites...

So to resume posts, I'll say, "See ya, Denver." It's off to somewhere near Sunnyvale, CA for the next chapter. And to what specifically prompted this entry: Astronaut Class of 2013, here's my application. I think I may have skipped the class of 2009, since all my files are from the class of 2003 application. Sorry.

So who knows, perhaps Houston is in our future?

Just a thought...

2010-11-03T23:00:00.002-06:00

It strikes me that many, many people confuse attention with approval. I turn my focus on you not because I necessarily want to see more, but because, simply, I'm astonished.

Thankful...

2010-05-16T09:05:00.007-06:00

Reflecting this morning on how kind and generous my friends and family are - no way to capture in words... Special thanks to those who reached out from afar: Shannon and Traveler you are an inspiration! So I offer a bit of sacred text to express by gratitude,

"Don't stop this train,
Don't for a minute change the place you're in,"

I'm thankful for all the amazing gifts:

I'm thankful for the kind thoughtfulness:

I'm thankful for dirt:

I'm thankful for new flower beds:

And I'm especially thankful for the months and months of gift cards for the newest member of the family, a DeWalt 12" Compound Miter Saw:

Love to all..

16 Tons, What Do you Get?

2010-05-02T18:52:00.003-06:00

Okay, well it was only 13 tons. Thanks to Billy, Lisa, and Advil, we've finally finished the "Right of Way" strip of land next to our property. It('s) rocks! Here's some photos of the finished product... (sorry we don't have 'before' pictures, but just imagine a long strip of weeds).

And with fancy drip irrigation too!

Six Lilac bushes (white and purple) and three "Burning bushes" ready for Summer!

Shop Shaping Up

2010-04-26T21:11:00.004-06:00

Some photos of the shop happening in our new garage... sponsored by Chase Rewards Points! Coming soon: Big tools!

A Tale of Two Tables...

With custom welding curtain...

And above-car storage for all that damn cedar wood!

Ah, Springtime.

2010-03-23T22:03:00.002-06:00

Here's the current view out our front door:

First day of Spring was when?

Final pieces of backyard...

2009-11-01T07:39:00.006-07:00

Hoping someday soon we can have YOU over for a cocktail on our newly (finally) refurbished backyard. Look... right there! You're holding a drink and laughing at me!

And then the Gods of Winter ascended and christened our work with 18 inches of snow...

Almost Done?

2009-09-09T19:12:00.004-06:00

Here's a beautiful image:

...as compared to before:

And here's our version of a garage "action photo":

And my future man-cave (stop drooling!):

Got the city approval just today, and we love our new garage! It's going to help us avoid the likes of this guy!

Last concrete is drying!

2009-08-31T18:11:00.006-06:00

In addition to finishing the flashing on the roof, our crew finished pouring the last of the concrete today!

For a closer look... apparently it's fine to walk on because it's covered in boot prints. So much for etching a 'K+M 2009' in wet concrete like I had hoped... ah well.

Want to drive in! Want to drive in!

Creeping towards a finish....

2009-08-30T12:55:00.004-06:00

Shingles on the awnings! Concrete forms for the patio and apron!

Electrical boxes expertly painted by Kristin!

Slooooowly getting there... Like our contractor says, "That'll be on Wednesday." Uh... Which Wednesday? Lol!

Electrical finished! (Sort of...)

2009-08-27T18:14:00.006-06:00

Whaddya think of the light fixtures eh? I think they look great, except for one detail:

This one is UPSIDE DOWN:

...but the inside looks great:

EXCEPT if I want to plug anything in to the 220V outlet! Hm.

Finally, the alley is nicely lit!

...it's just gonna need a little paint. Where's Kristin?

Stucco Done!

2009-08-26T19:02:00.004-06:00

Final stucco coat done and it looks fantastic! Slooooooow progress, but we're hoping to be able to park out cars in it by the end of the month. And see? Base coat of paint all done on the trim. Nice work Kristin!

First color!

2009-08-21T18:12:00.004-06:00

Next comes the blue trim... (Kristin promised she'd do it...) Electrical power has been hooked up through the new connection - now we gotta get the cable guys to come bury their feed... Things are starting to shape up!

Stucco base coat done!

2009-08-15T17:51:00.004-06:00

Oh and Kristin? Thomas thinks you should put the trim primer on as soon as possible!

Progress...

2009-08-13T18:01:00.005-06:00

Latest photos from the new garage... the base layer of stucco is goin' up! Today they completed the North, East, and South sides... Pray for very little rain!

Also, my Mom and I (okay, mostly my Mom) did some cleaning up under the large tree. Hope you like it Kristin!

Two years in the making...

2009-08-10T22:58:00.008-06:00

But who's counting? Oh. Really that many?

Finally, finally, finally there is a canoe hoist in Breckenridge. Sure, some might say it's "over-engineered." Others might go as far as to say, "Hey, stop talking about the damn thing." In the end, all I can say is, "Uh, it still doesn't work like I want it to..." Proudly, and with reverence to the very object of affection, Tuck's hand-crafted canoe, I hereby present "the canoe hoist."

<< trumpet fanfare from mountain top >>

Yes, after a long toil, toil, boil and bubble, my Mom and I installed the hoist this last Sunday with only three ulcers, a headache, loud swearing, dispair, elation, and of course an immediate subsequent trip to Blackhawk (for you non-Coloradoans: it's like Vegas, but with buffalo roaming the streets and olde tyme water-closets).

(Off to a good start on the day of assembly.)

Yeah, I totally forgot to get a close-up of the arms that extend the canoe about a yard out from the wall to avoid the breakfast counter, but here's a photo of the hoist motor and cable guides mounted behind the rafters in the loft bedroom:

And finally, let me heap some praises where they are due:

- To Kristin for immense support and love during all the late nights,
- To Ryan Sharp for expert welds and sage engineering advice,
- To Tuck and Liz for their patience, patience, and patience these long years
- And finally to Joan, my Mom, for elbow grease, tolerance of my frustrations, and unending belief in my capabilities (however misplaced they clearly are...)

Now off to fix the damn thing...

Dad, I'll try again next time.

2009-08-10T18:56:00.003-06:00

"The Johnsons Space Center received more than 3,500 applications for the 9 astronaut candidate positions filled. The large number of well-qualified applicants made the selection process a difficult one. Regrettably, we were only able to select a small number of those with the potential to make a contribution to the nation's space program." --Duane L. Ross

"It is good to have an end to journey toward, but it is the journey that matters in the end." --Ursula K. LeGuin

Steady Progress...

2009-08-07T07:49:00.006-06:00

Framing inspection and fire inspection completed... handing over a big check... stucco well on its way! Interesting note: Our stucco guy is also a volunteer fire fighter. Nice to have guys like that around the house!

Looking back to the house from within the garage...

The new power feed connection...

Indeed, proper fire supression on the North wall... (will be closed off with drywall)

Wednesday of next week: garage doors and first layer of stucco!

Taking Shape!

2009-08-04T20:57:00.004-06:00

Here's a view of the construction from the alley - with our general contractor Thomas hamming it up! Hello down there!

And for the record, here's the view from the patio... looking good!

Roof is finished.. electrical is in... stucco beginning on the 6th... things are taking shape quickly!

Pop!

2009-07-29T19:49:00.004-06:00

Framing up in one day - promptly followed by a downpour. So, here's our soaking wet new garage!

Concrete Thoughts

2009-07-27T19:30:00.001-06:00

And now we have a foundation upon which to build... our garage.

20-Year HS Reunion

2009-07-26T18:03:00.006-06:00

Here are some photos of the amazing people I went to High School with... all still beautiful!

I See A Box

2009-07-23T20:41:00.003-06:00

And the progress continues...

Carnage!

2009-07-20T18:12:00.004-06:00

Day one progress:

...and the lovely Kristin is toe deep in the aftermath... More soon!

The "Before" Photo

2009-07-19T22:27:00.004-06:00

Standing in our back yard - facing the future garage location...

Here's a good look at the now-destroyed fireplace that was built by people who must have believed that a micro-tornado might strike it and hence summoned the God of Large Structures to cast a truly epic mass of concrete upon which to rest it.

And the craziness begins...

2009-07-17T16:56:00.002-06:00

Today we got permits to build a new garage! Photos and progress updates will be posted here for your amusement. This is Kristin's and my first home improvement adventure and it's already proving to be everything it's cracked up to be!

So, if your birthday is drawing near, uh..., you can expect a FREE tour of the completed structure! Yay!

Plans are drawn up for a two-car garage with a third car garage space used as a workshop. And for all you geeks out there: 220VAC. W00t! We've chosen a FLAT top roof (much to the dismay of many, many friends and family) with the expectation that a 5KWh passive solar array system will reside up there, nicely hidden from street view. Pass along all your home-improvement karma!!!

Photos forthcoming...

The Natchez Trace

2009-04-09T20:31:00.013-06:00

Kristin, Tuck, and Elizabeth are on a journey... The Natchez Trace... 400 miles... on a bicycle! I will be posting periodic updates on their trek right here!

Day Ten: A lazy day in Natchez (courtesy of the early finish)... here are a couple of photos from the journey:

Day Nine: 90 miles and an early FINISH!!! Instead of breaking up the last two legs with an overnight, Elizabeth and Kristin busted a move and made it all the way from Ridgeland to Natchez. (Part of the motivation was the less-than-stellar hotel in Port Gibson!) Tuck opted to ride with Liz in support due to the aching wrist. After the finish the whole gang, including Mr. Barnes, Jack and Neil Rejman, sipped scotch and then crossed the state line into Louisiana for a feast of frog legs, catfish and shrimp. Everyone was in great spirits for the end of the Natchez Trace!

Day Eight: Our crew spent the day relaxing and seeing the sights in Jackson, including a visit to the 'old' state capitol. Good weather, good food, and Kristin's talking like she going to move there! Tuck nursed his wrist after the slow-motion tip over at the end of yesterday's ride. (All you riders out there with clip-ins know what happened.) Elizabeth's family made plans to fly in a day early (tomorrow) after picking up Mr. Barnes in Indiana.

Day Seven: 68 miles! First had to drive to "Country Cookin" for breakfast - and apparently decaf isn't a common order... Tuck and Liz hit the outskirts Jackson to fix his shoe, while Kristin and Elizabeth braved the poor roads in the first two hours. Gorgeous sunny day ride, with a scenic lunch spot (i.e., not just trees)! Tuck and Liz also hit a craft fair and added to their eclectic metal animal collection. Had an excellent dinner at "Katherine's" for a bit of local flair and live music! Tomorrow: day off!

Day Six: 45 miles! A cold one for the crew - Kristin said she had to sprint to shake the bone chill. Everyone finished the distance in grand fashion, but we've had our first equipment failure: Tuck's shoe apparently caught on his pedal and he tore off a cleat. Thankfully, it happened at the end of the day. Plans are for Tuck and Liz to skip into town to find a repair while Elizabeth and Kristin hit the first leg in the morning...

Day Five: 59 Miles! Our intrepid crew experienced beautiful weather (surprisingly) on their way to Starksville, MS! Kristin says that they are all in fine shape and settling into a groove. The group had to out-run a swarm of black flies at one point, but spent most of the day admiring the flowers on either side of the road. The traffic, with one blaring exception, has been very accomodating (whew!). As an interesting side note, apparently the most popular way to ride "The Trace" is in the opposite direction, from Natchez to Nashvillle. Perhaps that explains why the majority of other riders they've seen are going in the other direction! All three are looking forward to a relatively short ride tomorrow...

Day Four: Day off riding. The group spent the day in Oxford and Tupelo, MS, the birthplace of Elvis Presley. The also visited the campus of Ole Miss, and took in the final round of the Masters warm and dry in the lobby of the hotel. But just to capture the mood, here's a photo from the road! Enjoy!

Day Three: 70 miles!! Kristin reports very cold weather for the first half of the day, but then after a PB&J lunch, the weather was beautiful. In fact, so good that she finished the entire length of their longest day of riding. They had a great time at dinner with a 'local,' Mark Yacovone. Go see his picture at dinner on Facebook! Everyone is in good spirits, and they are all excited to spend tomorrow in Tupelo, AL, the birthplace of one Elvis Presley.

Day Two: 50 miles! Narrowly escaping a HAIL storm, and documenting Armadillo road kill, our intrepid trekkers are sleeping soundly in Florence, AL. Kristin was in great spirits as she reported that both Elizabeth and Tuck are enjoying the ride as well... even though today was much chillier. They dined at O'Charlie's tonight and plan on a big pancake breakfast before doing the BIGGEST day of travel tomorrow: 70 miles!!! Wish them luck!

Day One: 59 miles! From Nashville to Hohenwald - and the report coming in is one of soreness, tiredness, and complaints about a certain 7 miles at the end which seemed "straight uphill." Great weather to kick off the trip. Wish our adventurers well!!! Tomorrow: another 60 miles, with rain showers in the forecast!

Hey Check It Out!

2009-02-18T23:04:00.004-07:00

Kristin recently updated her business website - we're pretty proud of how it came out! Of course, there's much to improve, but it's a 'fresh' take on her original site. Go check it out: newangleconsulting.com

For those of you willing to take the plunge, I recommend Kristin's brand new podcasts! You'll find them on the Water Cooler page. The podcasts are home-brewed right here in front of this computer. Kristin's trying to start an on-going series on business related issues. In fact, we're hoping someday she's known as the "Water Cooler Coach."

Until then, enjoy the sonorous sounds of my wife's vocal cords without having to go to a church!

The Facebook Craze

2009-01-11T11:14:00.003-07:00

Hard to believe Kristin and I have only been on Facebook for less than two weeks! We've 'reconnected' with so many people - although I can hardly claim a deep connection. It's marvelous to resume a sort of social conversation, awareness, and amusement with the people I cherish.

I truly love hearing how my friends are doing - even the smallest thing.

Kristin and I are also heading (too rapidly) to our 20th High School reunion this summer. Seems like yesterday we were attending our 10th! Should be wonderful to see old faces, smiles.

Near and far, close or distant - keep up the status updates!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T09:29:00.002-07:00

Holy cow! It's been a half a year since I posted last? Seriously, shame on me. Well, part of the delay is the craziness of the end of last year. Kristin and I were traveling a lot, and everything seemed on-hold. Of course, time ticks on regardless of how much attention you pay.

Now, fresh with the turn of the year, I'm back on blogspot! Here's a quick update on our lives:

Kristin and I recently joined Facebook - friend us!
Mark is (still) writing a book about his Uncle
Kristin is getting into radio
New Angle Consulting posted it's best year yet in 2008!
Both of are planning on attending our 20-year High School Reunion in the Fall
Our niece Rachael turned twelve last week
Everyone's excited to celebrate my Mom's birthday-milestone with a Mediterranean cruise in the Spring!

Warm, warm, wishes for you and your families as we begin the New Year!

-Outdoor- White Elephant Martini Bingo

2008-07-27T12:15:00.010-06:00

Yessir! For the first time ever, Martini Bingo was held outside on our patio! All our prayers and dances to hold off bad weather worked in spades - we simply couldn't have asked for better.

And once again, our Martini Bingo enthusiasts made the evening wonderful. It's a riot to look up from the Bingo tumbler and see all our friends trying to focus on their cards without spilling! You guys bring great stuff as well - what was that alligator thing? Someone said it was a birdfeeder? A special tip of the hat to Lissa Sharp for sharing her decadent Lemon Drop recipe. --No less than 4 tsp. of sugar in the 6 oz. glass!!!!--

Here are some photos of the event:

We worked hard to light up the patio!

Ray, Bill, Ann-Marie, and Lauralyn share a laugh!

Ash takes a turn a callin'.

Can you believe it? Rob won the Zippy round AGAIN!

This year's winner of the pot: Toni Marie! Yay!

Tipsy hosts!

Very special THANK YOU to my sister, Jen, who helped setup in the frantic hours beforehand, AND helped clean up in the tipsy afterhours. Couldn't have done it without you!

See ya'll next time!

Steve and Jen are Hitched!

2008-05-04T10:07:00.006-06:00

On a small private beach off the coast of Cancun...

Amongst family...

Two beautiful, glamorous people we dearly love tie the knot...

Warmest, most joyous, congratulations!

See all our photos here.

New Casa!

2008-01-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

So long since our last post - but we've been busy! Say hello to our new abode in Denver. Kristin found this gem and we pounced. It's our first home after having been renters for longer than we care to admit. And we couldn't be happier.

We'd like to thank our parents for being so supportive and generous - and for sharing our enthusiasm. Here are some details: The home was built in 1942, but updated with new electrical and air. It's on a 'double' lot - so we've got some room to grow. It faces South - with warm and cheery sunlight through out the day. We're perched on the corner of a city park called Harvard Gulch. The park comes complete with a community swimming pool and - get this - an executive 9-hole golf course!

As new homeowners, we're learning things every day. Take for example cleaning out the gutters: It sucks. But buying new furniture is fun even when you don't both agree! And in recent days, we're learning about the term 'refinancing.'

For those of you in the Denver area, stay tuned for a house warming event. For those of you who aren't, we have a few photos of the place during and after the move. We can't wait to pour a you glass and give you a tour when you're in town.

http://www.geocities.com/marksalada/OurNewHome

Once again, both Kristin and I want to thank everyone who helped with the move - but especially Joan, Tuck, and Liz. Now, off to figure out why the toilet is refilling so slowly...

Irish Wedding, Wales Visit

2007-11-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Dave and Lynn! On the happiest of occasions, Kristin and I journeyed to Ireland in early October to celebrate their wedding in Killarney. It was Kristin's first trip to Ireland, and my second. The bride and groom are good friends of ours from Boston:

It was such an honor and a pleasure to be invited! We had a wonderful time exploring the Ring of Kerry in a tour bus (fully supplied with beer), touring the pubs in Killarney, and, well, drinking with friends and family in that magnificent Manor! O Danny Boy!

You can view the complete set of photos we took here. So, seriously, let's do an anniversary with everyone again in Breckenridge.

After the wedding, Kristin and I hopped over to Wales to visit our long-time friends Sam and Rebecca in Swansea. We learned a little Welsch (not really), took in a lecture, and you guessed it: drank a pint at Worm's Head. Uh, is there a pattern of behavior here?

If you want to see more photos of Wales, go here. Huge THANKS! to Sam and Rebecca (and Luke!) for being such gracious hosts - we miss you guys!

Martini Bingo

2007-10-15T06:30:00.000-06:00

Have you ever seen a photo of a White Elephant Martini Bingo Party?

There you have it. Serious gaming. Well, some of the guests had tied one on the night before so we suspect the determined faces might have something more to do than playing Bingo... Nonetheless, Kristin and I had a fabulous time hosting you great people! The award for the best prize, hands down, was the Beating Heart. It exchanged hands we think more than five times. Who brought that? It was awesome.
Dan and Toni Marie demonstrate their bingo prowess...
Beautiful people play Bingo - Kristin and Rob (Rob won the Zippy round!)
Kristin and I had the help of the Dr. Elizabeth Barnes Rejman, PhD, MA, CPC, BCPC, DMV, in setting up for the evening - thanks lady! She even took a few turns a callin'!
Ann-Marie won the blackout round at the end - and all the cash! We think it was close to, like, a million dollars!

We hope you enjoyed the evening - we certainly did! And to all those who couldn't make it, we hope you're jealous enough to join us next time. Who knows? It could be in our new house... (But that's for another blog)

Long Time No Post

2007-08-20T10:07:00.000-06:00

I guess that makes me seem busy? Well, yes I have been. But that's no excuse! Seriously, You people let me get away with such sloppiness...

Some updates: Work continues to be fabulous. Cool people, cool work. Lots to learn. I've helped update the website to look shiny, so please go check it out. There's also a link to some of my handiwork that I'm proud to show. wbmdenver.com

I spent some of my time recently in New Hampshire helping my lovely wife Kristin with a leadership program for BAE. We did a fun project where participants had to create a self-powered vehicle to transport ping-pong balls "by land, by sea, and by air." Oh, and when I said, "Hey that'll be easy to do" someone should have slapped me (get in line!). After creating the course I proudly attempted an "air" crossing with my own vehicle and it went 4 of the required 18 ft. Crêpe. Here are some photos of the course and participants...

By sea (a 24 ft. shallow pool) and by Air (a fancy clothesline)

Pam and Chris ham it up while tensioning the cables

Serious competition, serious engineering, serious toys!

4000 lbs of water + a bunch of mid-20 yr-olds = Battle Boats!

Coming up in the Fall of 2007: Kristin and I will venture across the Pond for a wedding in Ireland, and hopefully a visit to Sam and Rebecca. Fantasy football is ramping up and Kristin looks to defend her title. Finally, I want to publicly congratulate my good friend Ryan on his recent wedding to Lisa. We love you both!

Employed!

2007-05-18T08:32:00.000-06:00

I am thrilled to announce that I am joining BMT WBM, formerly WBM Consulting, to do the coolest of the cool engineering work. I think they hired me because I look so good in coveralls with a body harness, because frankly it can’t be due to my skills. In my first week I lit a table on fire, wired a basic switch incorrectly, and messed up some software. In spite of all that, I look forward to helping my good friend and colleague Ryan Sharp grow the branch here in Denver.

BMT WBM does analytical work on the large machines that perform mining operations. Our branch also has a small set of products that do real-time monitoring of stress and fatigue display to the operators. If you’ve never seen these machines, you’re in for a treat – check out here and here. These things are huge! The mine owners really don’t like it when they break, and that’s where BMT WBM can help.

Thanks to everyone who has been so supportive during Kristin’s and my transition to Denver. These last two years have been really crazy, and we both hope it only gets better from here. Let's celebrate!

Help A Researcher

2007-04-13T08:28:00.000-06:00

If you read this blog, you may know that its primary contributor, me, also has a fledgling young business in the works. It's called Infinite Set Technology, and I'm working on a new computer peripheral consumer product. Hopefully, some of the big guys will see the potential, and pick up the new idea.

Well, here's your opportunity to contribute your two cents worth. In my first-ever cross pollination of web property, I would like to steer you to Infinite Set Technology to take a market research survey. It's free, and should take less than ten minutes of your time.

At the end of the survey, you'll see the results to date. It's the same data I hope to analyze, package, present, and use to sway potential investors. Forward the link to everyone you know!

-Mark
CEO and Custodian,
Infinite Set Technology, LLC

Walkin' In a Winter Wonderland

2007-02-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

It’s actually a crime in Colorado to NOT ski. Well, not a violation in any legal sense, but certainly a moral affront to the God of snow and mountains. Kristin and I have been shy of the slopes since arriving to a near-criminal degree… Self-obstructed by the move, business, friends, and other miscellany. It’s a true shame. Alas, we’ve had one jaunt to the winter wonderland in the mountains near Breckenridge – an exquisitely beautiful day I wanted to share…

Cheers!

With Sadness..

2007-02-01T10:06:00.000-07:00

With a heavy heart I am sad to share the news of the passing of Kristin's aunt, Jacquelin Teeter. After a long battle with multiple sclerosis, aunt Jay (as we liked to call her) died on January 21st. Here's a fond memory with her at our wedding in 2004. Always positive, always supportive, and always loving. We will truly miss her.

(Jay is in the center in both photos...)
Our last memory with her was a good one, surrounded by all who loved her at Billy and Lisa's home last Christmas.

Aunt Jay has an older sister and brother, Suzanne and Tuck, and two sons, Dan and David. Our thoughts and our prayers are with them.

Let it Snow!

2006-12-22T12:56:00.000-07:00

For all those of you who have seen the news, I bring you pictures of the Denver Blizzard of 2006!

I am so tired from shoveling (and being out of shape at high altitude) that my arms are cramping as I type this. Kristin jumped in and made her first post-move snow angel during the first night of the storm. It was covered again by another 9 inches by morning. In all, I think we got around 20 inches in our neighborhood. Welcome to Colorado!

Yes, that's my car in the first picture. You just gotta love the snow.

I would like to give thanks here to those who helped us move – foremost recognition goes to my brother Steve and his girlfriend Jen. They flew out to Boston, helped up with last minute packing, and then drove across the country with us. They braved more than just bad weather! I hereby present the Blue Ribbon Karma Award to Steve and Jen.

Additional thanks go to my sister Jen and Dustin for the actual move-in night. Together with Dave and Jacqui, we reduced the pain of hauling by a significant factor. You guys are the greatest, and we hope to repay your kindness soon now that we’re “locals.”

We wish all of our readers (yes, all three of you) a very Merry Christmas!

Whew!

2006-12-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

We’re surrounded by boxes in sunny Denver. Our place is located in the “Highlands,” a historically Hispanic neighborhood across the highway from downtown. In fact, we’re 1 and ½ blocks from Rosa Linda’s Mexican Café. Yum! For those of you who grew up in Colorado, we’re about 15 blocks from the original Elitch’s site, now overrun with fancy new town homes. (However, they kept the Merry-Go-‘Round Pavilion and show outdoor movies there in the summer.)

Our drive from Boston to Denver was not without some scary moments – including Mark losing control of the truck (with a car-tow) for a brief moment in Illinois. Kristin relates, “I heard Mark gasp, and since he wasn’t swearing I knew we were in serious trouble.” Thankfully, I recovered quickly and the rest of the trip was without incident. [Aside: Concrete highways are the bane of trucks with a car-tow. The constant rocking due to the seams made us nauseous.]

Our cat Sullivan appears to have survived the trip just fine. He’s so excited about the dramatic increase in square footage (previous apartment = 750 sq. ft., current house = 2200 sq. ft.) that he keeps puking. He still finds us in our room at night and settles in for a good sleep. I’m sure he’ll calm down soon…

Kristin’s business is having a busy week – she’s already spoken at the Pioneer Alumni Network Breakfast, and then promptly drove to Santa Fe for the annual Experiential Training & Development Alliance (ETDA) summit at Sunrise Springs Resort. Mark is happy to stay behind and unpack.

So, it’s time for the Holiday Season! We both look forward re-introducing ourselves to the Colorado social scene. Let’s raise a glass!

Started a Company, Moving to Colorado

2006-11-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

In about four weeks, I’ll be sending blog entries from our new residence in Colorado. Uh, not that we actually have a place yet, nor do we have any final arrangements for the move. We do however have high hopes, a bright outlook, and a warm feeling about being closer to family and good friends.

We’ve made some wonderful friends here in Boston, and our transition comes with a bit of heavy heart. Kristin and I have every intention to continue those relationships – perhaps even luring a few folks out West in the process, if only for a brief visit. As the incredible Fall colors in New England swirl in the wind around us, we have fond memories of what it was like to live on the Charles River in this incredible town.

Plans are to settle in some quaint neighborhood in Denver, hopefully sustaining the urban-cosmopolitan-chic setting we found ourselves in Cambridge. Kristin will continue her business as usual, but flying to clients from DIA instead of Logan. We’re hoping to have a little more square footage per dollar in Denver than we have had here in Cambridge – perhaps enough for a bona fide office!

Without further adieu, I hereby announce the creation of my own company: Infinite Set Technology, LLC. With the goal of improving how humans interact with technology, my company helps fill the gap between a good idea and an actual consumer product. As a start, I’m working on some ideas I developed during my studies at Northwestern. It’s promising stuff, and I hope to get everyone “in touch” with it very soon! {∞}

See you in Denver, okay?

Why I Should Be An Astronaut (Indulge Me)

2006-10-11T19:10:00.000-06:00

Firstly, I want to be an astronaut. I’ve asked many people and I’m surprised at the number who wouldn’t jump at the chance to go into space. Is it dangerous? Risky? You betcha. But no more, really, than your daily commute.

Second, my Mom says I’d make a good astronaut. I’ve got all the creds… just ask her. Well, sometimes she gets the high-tech acronyms wrong, and she surely thinks I’m smarter than I really am, but of all the people in the world to have on your side, Mom is the first and best place to start.

Third: The price of tea in China. Think about it.

Finally: For the sake of all childhood dreams. How many of us woke up every morning when you were twelve to read books about space and to build LEGO Mars Rovers? Yeah, I know! A ton of us! And how many of us have gotten the nod? It’s high time for someone in the lot to get pulled up and slapped with a full-on EVA suit. I’ve been working towards it my entire life.

Not convinced? Okay, if I become an astronaut, I promise to send you a dollar bill that has been in outer space. But you have to post a comment to get on record... (is bribery becoming of the astronaut core?)

Alan Shepard party of two. Please proceed to the 1st tee.

2006-08-29T11:36:00.000-06:00

I can’t hold my tongue any more… Ever since I read this article about a Cosmonaut given the go-ahead to hit a golf ball off the International Space Station as a publicity stunt for a Canadian golf club manufacturer, I’ve been sick to my stomach.

I’ve crafted my entire career to be eligible for the astronaut core. There are as many paths to become an astronaut as there are candidates, and I’ve enjoyed every challenge I’ve taken on. The biggest challenge is trying to anticipate what kinds of people NASA will need for future missions. Well, I will now add "Sports Equipment Representative" to the list.

Ironically, it’s the ex-communist Russian Space Agency, not NASA, that is leading the Station into the new era of commercialism. Space tourists pay a lump sum ($20M, I believe) for a ticket aboard the Soyuz capsule, pass the physical, and the Russians will fulfill your fantasy of entering the Cosmos. But here’s the particularly difficult thing: The man ready to perform the world’s first (dare I say the Galaxy’s first?) publicity stunt in space is not a salesman, but an engineer and pilot with extensive experience in zero-g. Mikhail, how far thy fall from grace? The stunt has been thinly justified as a way to commemorate Alan Shepard's historic golf ball drive on the moon 35 years ago, but whom do they think they're kidding?

Lemme see… the NASA web page How to Become an Astronaut 101 needs to be updated:

Get educated: Check.
Stay interested in Space: Check.
Stay fit: (er) Check?

Play golf: Ah… Check!
Sell sporting goods: Wohoo! Anyone want my clubs?
Pay that $20M: Powerball baby here I come!!!

This I Believe

2006-07-31T14:06:00.000-06:00

The following is an essay I wrote and submitted to the "This I Believe" series at NPR.org. I'm a big fan of public radio, and when they resurrected the idea from Edward R. Murrow's original in the 1950's, I couldn't resist.

I believe my Dad was right when he told me to go back to school for an advanced degree.

My Dad was born above a butcher shop in Detroit in 1931. He worked hard, fought hard in Korea, and believed hard in his Catholic faith. Both his military service and his religious faith gave him great comfort during the long battle with cancer that ended him. It took eight years. It was during those difficult years that he told me, more than once, “Son, if you can go all the way and get a doctorate, you should.” He was trying to pass on his belief that education leads to success and a happy life.

When my father died, I decided to go back to school to get that doctorate. I studied hard, thought hard, and worked hard. It took me four years. After graduating I accepted a year-long post-doc position doing research. These kinds of positions are meant to be temporary, transitory jobs in preparation for a career in academia or in industry. I was using my education, innovating, contributing, and helping people in a unique way.

Today marks one year since I finished that research position. I have been unemployed and looking for work for well over fourteen months now. I believe that I have never felt more useless. I have a computer spreadsheet on the number of recruiters, the number of applications, and the number of interviews I’ve had. I stopped counting about three months ago. Although recruiters love my background, hiring managers tell me that having an advanced degree makes be “not a good fit” for industry. I’m overeducated for an entry-level position and too inexperienced for a management position.

I think my father would be surprised at how difficult it’s been for me to find a job. In his generation, a college degree was a ticket to white collar success and suburban bliss. Perhaps his belief in hyper-education was more about his personal experience than about some core truth. In my experience, I see many successful and happy people who have nowhere near the education I have. Take for example Bill Gates, or Sam Walton, or President George W. Bush.

Even though it’s been difficult to swallow my pride and to continue to search for the right fit in industry, I do believe that my father was right. I didn’t go back to school to get a job. I went back for myself. I went back for what my father believed because I believe it too. And I am happier now because of it. Today I have no job, but my mind is clear on what I want that job to be and full of ideas on how to get there. Most of all, I believe my father would be very, very proud of me.

Spain 2006 Part III: Touring the Millennia with Great Friends

2006-07-12T05:35:00.000-06:00

After taking a city bus to catch the bus from Granada to Sevilla, and then another city bus to transfer to the other bus station in Sevilla, we finally reached Mérida, well, by bus. Once there, we joyfully reunited with our friend Rafa Ruiz Fuente. Rafa and Sacra Blanco had traveled all the way from Spain to join us on our wedding day in Colorado, and we were thrilled to check out their local digs West of Madrid in Navalmoral de la Mata. Before driving to their home, however, we spent the evening in Mérida stepping back in time to the height of the Roman Empire. The ruins in Mérida of the amphitheater and adjacent theater were astonishing. Magnificent. It was easy to imagine the Gladiator games in the amphitheater. The theater next door, although apparently not as popular in the day as the gory amphitheater events, looked like the Greek theater on steroids. (Also, they were preparing for opening night of the annual theater festival. What a treat!)

After a quick tour of the museum, Rafa drove us back to his home. We were thrilled to finally meet Silvia, Sacra and Rafa’s one year old daughter. Such a cutie! She melted our American hearts with her adorable imitation of a mouse, a lion, and a frog.

The next morning, Rafa showed us the school where he works as a PE teacher in Losar de la Vera and then his newly purchased land near Jarandilla (de la Vera). We were blown away with his fruit orchard: grapes, apples, oranges, kiwis, you name it! However, Rafa my friend, your new home needs some work. After marveling at Rafa’s plans for the estate, we spent a lazy afternoon in Jarandilla and in the pools by the Roman bridge past Losar.

The next day Rafa drove us to two incredible cities that saw their best days in the middle ages – Trujillo and Cáceres. Once again, we were romanced by these charming, picturesque, and ornate cities. As Rafa said, we half expected a knight in shining armor to ride around the corner and announce the Royal Court. ¡Soy un Conquistador! Both Kristin and I felt like Trujillo, with its charming streets, historic landmarks, and grand vistas, was exactly the kind of town we hoped Granada to be. Unfortunately, Trujillo is easily a three hour drive from an international airport. The first picture is from Trujillo, and the other is from Cáceres.

Finally, to close out our tour of the Extremadura region of Spain, we needed an up-close look at the Toro silhouettes! Rafa gave us an incredible picture of one as a wedding gift, and he wanted us to see it in person. These large bull-shaped billboards are left over from an ad campaign for alcohol, but people loved them so much they were painted over and left in place. After another wonderful evening with Rafa, Sacra, and Silvia, we did a little shopping in Navalmoral before bussing back to Sevilla. We couldn’t have asked for a more relaxing or scenic visit, and we owe it all to our incredible hosts. We enjoy your company wherever we are in the world! (As a parting gift, Sacra gave Kristin beautiful amber earrings, and we couldn’t resist a little University push for Silvia…)

We spent our final couple of nights back in Barrio Santa Cruz in Sevilla, eating and shopping. We visited Kristin’s old haunts including a brief return to her host family’s apartment (but Kristin couldn’t remember the number!). What did we buy? Well, you’ll just have to wait for the Christmas season to find out… Oh, by the way: Were you counting? That would be fourteen busses in twelve days. Next time we’re renting a car!

Spain 2006 Part II: Spain’s Pomegranate

2006-07-12T05:23:00.000-06:00

We flew to Sevilla for a quick night and jumped on a three-hour bus for Granada the next morning. When we arrived at our hotel, the reception told us that the air conditioning was broken in our room. They automatically upgraded us to the suites literally smack in front of the Cathedral. Kristin’s celebrity pays off again! Er. Wait. [Aside: We learned that the word “salada” in Spain means “witty, amusing, attractive, and charming.” Unfortunately, in the Americas, “salada” means “unlucky, unfortunate.” Since Salada is not from the Spanish language, we take it to mean “one whose ancestors are from the Salada family who on occasion experience good luck when traveling.”] Here was the view out our front window in Granada:

We decided to stroll up the Carrera del Darro, a street made famous by impressionist painters in the late 1800’s. After eating a sunset-lit dinner literally beneath the Alhambra on Paseo de los Tristes, we stumbled upon the city’s annual outdoor film festival in Plaza Nueva. I think we caught a good fifteen minutes of Eisenstein’s Battleship Potemkin before finally returning to our suite.

After a restless night of sleep (Spain is loud!), we took a walking city tour in the morning. Our guide spoke first in English, and then in Spanish. ¡Práctica buena! He took us through the old Moorish silk district which is now a major tourist market, then by the Cathedral, up through the Albacín neighborhood and then back down the River Darro. After a siesta, us crazy kids ventured back through the Albacín, all the way up the ridge opposite the Alhambra. Our mission was to explore for potential future second home sites. We saw some beautiful homes with incredible views.

Our quest took us all the way up past the old Moorish wall into new home developments that looked very American. They were like ghost towns – no stores, no noise, no people. ¡Que raro en España!

Feet so tired. Cold Cruzcampo calling. The next day we explored more neighborhoods, including trying to find the charming streets I remembered from a previous visit to no avail. In the end, we both felt kind of disappointed by Granada – it’s much larger, louder, and busier than we had hoped for. Granada’s ideal location in Southern Spain would seem to make it a perfect second home and we were hoping to fall in love. And well, we really liked it. No really. Really?

Spain 2006 Part I: London Calling

2006-07-12T05:01:00.000-06:00

“You’re Richard Rodriguez.” Kristin recognized our ticket attendant at the airport in Boston as an ex-counselor from her days as director of the YMCA Ponkapoag Day Camp. Apparently he was so pleased with the blast-from-the-past that he bumped us up to business class for the trip to London. W00t! Kristin’s celebrity pays off! Our holiday afoot in England began with a visit to Josh and Viv Spoerri’s house near the Hampstead Heath in North London. Our hosts were so generous, so gracious. They shared their beautiful home with us while we experienced a thoroughly pleasing side of the city that neither of us had explored before. We were enchanted to meet the newest addition to the Spoerri household, Steven. Isn’t this a great shot of the little guy?!

After a walk in the Heath (loverly) we took afternoon tea (read: pint) in the pub next door to the Spoerri’s house. We felt like true locals when a woman asked us to help with a crossword. Four-letter word for gambler’s bet? Chit. Ah, that’s my London! Room temperature ales!

Many, many thanks to Josh and Viv for hosting us. Unfortunately, we were unable to meet up with Sam and Rebecca in Wales. We did, however, commit our first act of international smuggling by dropping two pounds of Peet’s coffee in the local post for them. Sam and Rebecca: Those two were free; the next two pounds will be, shall we say, “market price.”

At Long Last!

2006-06-09T07:42:00.000-06:00

We were thrilled to host my brother and his girlfriend Jen over the Memorial Day weekend. In a triumphant but modest gesture, Steve and I revisited past glory days and took a Capitol picture. This time, the Massachusetts congress was celebrating the retirement of Doug Flutie, so we are sharing the spotlight a bit (his face is bigger than ours!). Here it is:

And to remind us of really how fast time moves, here is the original photo (circa 1983):

Steve and Jen’ visit was packed full of Boston hot spots… including a long awaited venture on a Duck Boat! We almost completed an H&M trinity, but we slipped past the final shrine and settled for an excellent meal at Stephanie’s on Newberry. On Sunday, Kristin and I spent the middle of the day in Plymouth to witness the Baptism of David Christopher Brown while Steve and Jen visited old haunts at Boston University. We met up with them at a Boston favorite Café Vittoria, and then found food at Quincy Market.

Steve and Jen’s visit reminds us how nice it would be to live closer to each other – rather than spanning the country, Boston to L.A. We love Boston so much, it’s hard to think about moving elsewhere, but the pull back to home is quite strong. Someday we’ll figure it all out…

Siblings Sighting

2006-05-15T13:20:00.000-06:00

It’s always wonderful to have family visit. Recently, both my sister and my sister-in-law stayed for a few days with us. Kristin and I got to show off this wonderful city we love, and it’s always a great excuse to hit some restaurants. Our standard Boston tour usually starts with a walk around or near the Commons, and the Garden, and along the freedom trail to Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. When we’ve had our fill of food in the North End, we wander close to our apartment and hit John Harvard’s Brew Pub, preceded by the obligatory tour of Harvard University.

Here’s a shot of me and my sister, Jen, attempting to recreate, in part, our historic 50-state U.S. Capitol tour our father took us on as kids. Jen didn’t have ANY recollection of Boston’s capitol, or the Commons for that matter. Of all the capitols we hit, I’d say less than half evoke any specific memory in me either. Mostly, my thoughts are a vague emotional feeling of the place and time, all mostly positive (except New Jersey!)

Kristin’s sister Lisa (who is expecting) had the misfortune of staying with us on the rainiest weekend in memory. Massive flooding in the New England area and we’ve got more coming in the forecast. We managed to take Lisa to Mr. and Mrs. Bartley’s Burger Cottage for a Frappe and burger, and to T to Gov’t Center without getting too soaked… We rounded Lisa’s visit with a nice Mother’s Day brunch with Shannon and Traveler (two good friends) at our place.

Why is it so nice to have family? Well, my family is pretty scattered about, and it’s hard to watch time move so quickly without checking in with the ones you love. My sister keeps looking younger, my brother and I keep getting greyer, and I swear it was just yesterday that my niece Rachael was only barely able to walk (she’s over 9 years old now!). A family is like an exclusive club where you get to watch each other get old. They know how you looked at your high school prom, and they were there on your wedding day. Family knows where you’ve been, and believes the most in where you can go. Can’t beat that.

Gift has returned home

2006-04-16T10:29:00.000-06:00

We are proud to announce the return of a family member to our household. Due to the repeated generosity of Joan, my Mom, and the talented hands of native American artist Steven Gootgeld, our spirit lover wedding statue has once again taken its place in our home. This new statue is a faithful replication of the original wedding gift, but with an added base for stability. To honor the spirit of our wedding, pieces from the shattered original reside inside this statue. Many sincere thanks to Steven for such a thoughtful idea.

We purchased a small rug during our visit to the Museum of the American Indian in Washington D.C. that makes a perfect display accent. If you have a chance to visit the new Smithsonian, your reward will be an experience that in my humble opinion makes it one of the finest museums in the world. It is a breathtaking, engaging, challenging, and glorious tribute to native peoples from Canada to Chile. If you go – tell us – and we’ll meet you there to see it again. Seriously.

Here comes the car chase...

2006-04-14T14:33:00.000-06:00

My everlasting quest to be gainfully employed has yet another possibility and it’s a possible shocker. For all of those readers out there (this means you, Sam. Yup. Just you so far…) you may know of my penchant for all things Rocky Mountain. Shall I describe the ideal job location? You guessed it: Denver, Colorado. Actually, further up the hill would be great, but not anywhere near the defunct nuclear processing plant. I’d need a plutonium-grade Britta filter if that happened.

Back to subject. So might you imagine something completely different, even polar to an environment like Denver? How about Miami? MY MAMMY! Yup, the stuff of 80’s TV and U2 songs. It appears that there might be a chance that BOTH the Salada brothers will live near a town called ‘Hollywood.’ Par for course, said Hollywoods are on the opposite sides of the country. How’s that for twin-weirdness? Not really? Ah, well, it was worth a mention. Once again, fans (Sam), stay tuned for more updates... as they trickle in like molasses.

Cole Slaw on This Journey?

2006-03-05T09:51:00.001-07:00

I marvel at my friends who have lived in the same place for a very long time. My stints in graduate school produced the only lengthened stay in an area (in Boulder, CO and in Evanston, IL). Other than that, my life has been nomadic. Kristin has only recently joined me on my path. She is my essential-wonderful companion on the journey of life.

I reflect because I feel yet another jump impending. Kristin and I have been in Cambridge MA for about a year and a half now and my job search appears to be pulling us away. Mind you, I’m still searching. Nothing certain yet. The longer my job hunt stretches out, the more I’m convinced it’s my only talent: looking. See? I’m looking at you, too.

We have good friends who must feel even more displaced than we feel. (However, let me assert that ‘feeling displaced’ doesn’t necessarily have to hold a negative connotation. Our continent-hopping friends seem the happiest we’ve know them.) The distant-ness from family makes my wife and me consider where our next move will take us – do we continue on our exploration of the world, or do we return to the beautiful fortress, the sanctuary of our childhood, Colorado Springs?

Ah, Colorado Springs. Cole Slaw to the indoctrinated. The thought conjures such mixed feelings. Most of the negative feelings come from the perception of how conservative the populace seems (through the media, personal recollections). I admit some of the feelings come from the prospect of running into classmates from high school – dreadfully revisiting my own past, battling misconceptions, hoping they’ll remember my name, forgetting theirs. And yet that city is as beautiful place you could ever wish for.

If you’re reading this, you’ll know how it all works out before I post about it again.

Cool, cool, call me later.

Everlasting Symbol

2006-02-06T17:31:00.000-07:00

I’m sitting at my computer just before 9 am last Thursday when I hear a bump and a loud crash in my bedroom. Sullivan, our cat (see below), then darted out of the room. Fearing the worst I rushed in to see what had caused the noise, only to find the worst-case scenario. Our most prized piece of artwork is a statue given to us by my Mom for our wedding. It is a sculpture of two humming birds, wrapped in a wedding blanket, inspired by our own ceremonial wedding blanket. Unknown to us, my Mom had commissioned the work from an artist in Taos, NM, when we had finally selected the blanket design from the Pine Ridge reservation. You see, my grandfather was a woodworking teacher in the 1930’s, and worked with the Lakota Sioux nation there, and on other reservations in South Dakota. The statue was an incredible gift to us on our wedding day, and we displayed it proudly on the corner of the room on an antique table.

And there it lay, shattered and broken on our floor. I wept like a baby. Not ashamed to admit it.

Before:
...After:

I am reminded by my friend Jacqui that one certain thing has come of this calamity. In his act of destruction, our cat Sullivan has affirmed his presence in our family unit. We will never again gaze upon our wedding gift, a symbol of our union, without also recalling how it was shattered into many pieces by the unknowing, mostly innocent, feline member of our family. Perhaps he has finally vindicated his feelings for having been left in Boston while we traveled to Colorado for our wedding…

The end of the story is still writing itself. My Mom has related the disaster to the artist himself, and preparations are already in order for a replacement. The only lasting damage will be the dent in my heart, the last polish of a belief in the permanence of symbols rubbed away by, yes, a family member.

Oh, next time: Bolted down glass box.

Braneworld

2006-01-16T20:41:00.000-07:00

You. Me. We’re stuck on the same membrane. Gravity is a property of the Bulk, and remains the only force we experience that is not stuck to our particular brane (yeah, it’s a closed string, unlike the other three forces). By the end of my stay in existence, I expect we’ll have a profoundly new and incredible understanding of this universe (actually, we already know it’s a multi-verse). So, somebody out there tell me if this explains “tunneling,” the seemingly impossible transport of electrons through potential wells that I learned in my college physics classes. Please? I took a look at the math and I’m terribly overwhelmed. It seems quite possible that Frank Herbert’s fantastic concept of folding space-time to “travel” vast distances in Dune is, in fact, possible. However, we’ll have to amend the concept, and the folding thereof, to just our brane and leave manipulation of the Bulk to even greater beings.

Don’t even get me started on F-theory.

P. L. Sullivan Salada

2005-12-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

Our cat is by far the most underappreciated member of our family. His full name is Peg Leg Sullivan, inspired by the fact that he spent three of the first five months of his life at the St. Charles Vet Clinic with a cast on his leg. You see, under the care of the wonderful and talented Dr. Elizabeth (Barnes) Rejman, Sullivan came to our home having recovered from a nasty game of chicken with a car. Illinois drivers.

Since then he has established himself as the #2 member of the household. He truly believes that the pecking order goes Mark, Sullivan, and then finally Kristin. Little does he know that the actual order is Sullivan, Kristin, Mark. Thankfully, Mark understands this. It is quite amusing when Sullivan asserts his dominance and corners Kristin, meowing. It’s hard to be intimidated when you’re laughing!

Yes, if you look close enough, you’ll see singed whiskers. They are the hallmark of a curious cat with owners who like candles. Oh, and the box? Well, Sullivan likes crawling into things. He especially likes things he can’t fit into. Since we (Kristin and I) especially like beer, he has many, many photo opportunities as the next Samuel Adams mascot.

Pass the Garam Masala

2005-11-16T19:10:00.000-07:00

As a birthday gift, Kristin bought me a cooking class last night: vegetarian Indian. I now know how to craft a wet (Punjabi) masala. It was a fantastic lesson and I am grateful for the chance to set aside my job hunting woes for a while. Good company too - everyone had a doctorate of some sort! A purely coincidental meeting of the minds and taste palettes. We made and ate a yellow lentel dal, stir fried cabbage, Kerala bean stew, appams, and paneer tikka masala. And it was harder than I thought it would be... where can I find tamarind paste? Key advice from our hostess: Don't tell anyone how many green chilis you put in.

Many, many thanks to Tara Deshpande Tennebaum of Azalea Catering, and to my wife for such a thoughtful gift.

Allillanchu wayki?

2005-10-29T07:48:00.000-06:00

How are you, friend? My wife and I just got back from our much belated Honeymoon – we took a trip to Peru and hiked the Inca trail to Machu Picchu. It was an incredible trip. Here is a small photo of Kristin with our guide, Marco. You can view all our photos of the Inca trail here. Perhaps the most humbling aspect of the trip was seeing how Peruvians live. The majority are living in homes built from sun-dried mud bricks. They are a hard working, sincere, and beautiful people living by the only means they can afford. I feel shame for ever having complained about my apartment because it didn’t have a dishwasher.

The October clouds and rain didn’t afford much star gazing opportunity for this first-time Southern hemisphere traveler. Looks like I’ll have to schedule another trip to see how stars fall on the other side…

A rose by any other name...

2005-10-06T07:44:00.000-06:00

You can know the name of a bird in all the languages of the world, but when you're finished, you'll know absolutely nothing whatever about the bird... So let's look at the bird and see what it's doing -- that's what counts. I learned very early the difference between knowing the name of something and knowing something.

-Richard Feynman