Joan's Blog

2011-07-15T07:05:00.000-07:00

Pacific Rim Park

Toured Victoria after leaving the Pacific Rim Park

At the right is Barry drooling over this 150 ft. sail boat. Must be a wall streeter. Young kids on the deck playing!

Visited the Art Gallery here – Emily Carr was a feature – Canada’s most well know artist. Inspiring – Much of her work was devoted to the First Nation peoples and their environment and the incredible beauty and ecology of the country and most specifically Vancouver Is.

We have been told that the weather is unusually cool and rainy for this time of year. Heavy rain in the night but during our visit here, while cool, not rainy. Lots of opportunity to bike ride. Everywhere there are bike paths and parks – wonderful gardens. This atmosphere and environment is surely conducive to gardens. Much of the island area of the island is farm country with lots of roadside stands of strawberries chard now filly reading for picking. The city exemplifies their English heritage – high tea available at the Empress Hotel on the water front. Homes and public buildings look very British.

Sea planes fly to the mainland regularly right from the down town area. Floating homes on the waterfront – reminded of Sausalito in SF, - It’s a walking city for sure.

Back in USA for now on our way back to Maine. Another great ferry ride back to Vancouver and then thru the southern Cascades. A little foggy and showering but the midst and fog add to the beauty especially along the river which are flowing rapidly and furiously. I would not want to be rafting these.

Vancouver

2011-07-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

July 7^th Spent yesterday touring Vancouver on a hop on hop off trolley and then walking in the rain around Gastown, Chinatown and “the war zone” according to a passerby who gave us directions to a more desirable section of town. All in all a very modern, beautiful city. Seems very conscious of the environment and saving energy, recycling – propane buses etc. Spent time at the Public Market on Granville Is – reclaimed from 2^nd WW industry into a tourist mecca of arts and theater and food stalls etc. Chowing down on delicious fresh raspberries and blackberries. Dinner on the dock over looking the city.

See recap of the first couple weeks below.

June 30^th – Oregon mountains looming large – thru Bend then wheat fields also filled with wind mills. Maybe 2000! Mt Hood than the Columbia River Gorge and the not very quaint town of Rufus to Doug’s.

June 29^th – Off to Crater Lake where we found at least 3 feet of snow in the campgrounds. I guess that is normal for this time of year. Trips out to the island won’t even begin until mid-July. Ranger hikes are on snow shoes. Rim loop of the lake is open – we got lots of photos - remarkable site - comfort for the soul.

June 28^th – Rainy walk thru Ashland – Long walk after it cleared in the park then to the Shakespeare Festival’s Love’s Labor Lost in the Elizabethan Theater, a 21^st century setting of the bard’s play – Luckily we were under an overhang as it started to rain and a good part of the theater is in the open. Very well done. Next day a more modern play – seen on Broadway a few years ago - August: Osage County. This was performed in the armory because a structural problem had been discovered in the famous Bowman Theater about a week prior to our arrival.

June 27^th – On to Ashland, OR – Campground on Emigrant Lake just north of town. Beautiful lake, great breeze and sun shinning – lazy day of planning.

Passed thru Trinidad – quaint, quiet coastal town - bought salmon at Kate’s – written up in the Washington Post as best in the west. Visited Patrick’s Pt. State Park – one of the nicer ones in CA. Their parks are hurting due to the budget short fall. Then to Lady Bird Johnson’s Redwood Grove – dedicated to her by Nixon – in the Redwood National Park and on to Jedediah Smith State Park – still in the Redwoods close to a cool, clear Smith River.

On to Ferndale, Eureka and Arcata – Victorian homes, Kinetic Museum, Art Museum and the Arcata Wildlife Sanctuary which has had national commendation for its method of treating the run off from roads and parking lots into the sewerage overflow using the marsh land.

June 26 -27 On to Humboldt State park in the Redwoods area. Driving thru the Avenue of the Giants. Thanks to friends of the Redwoods who convinced the Rockefellers to help preserve 10,000 acres of these magnificent trees. Hopefully we can curb climate change so these giants will be preserved. We went on an 8 mile walk from the campgrounds – Measured one tree circumference – 41.8 ft. another named Big Tree was 363 ft. tall – bigger than a football field.

June 20 -25

Beautiful warm day to walk on the beach and then on up the coast – Camped at Gertle campground in Salt Pt. State Park. Explored some of the small towns along the way – Elk – very creative art center, Gualal Arts center, Pt. Arena where the bakery produced goodies for the movie Chocolat. On to Russian Gulch Park – ranked very low on our scale of 1-10 so we didn’t spend much time there. All along the highways are wild flowers – foxgloves, lupine, daises and more. Spent some time in Mendocino – quaint town of Victorian houses, lovely art center and great market. Caught with internet at the local coffee shop. Toured Sea Ranch at some point. A development about 10 miles long on 101 with very strict codes – most of the houses look like modern barns, all gray wood construction – even the fire department. One day we stopped at the chapel which was given to the community for an opportunity to have a spiritual connection no matter what persuasion or no persuasion re. religion. Just being there was a mystical happening.

Next stop Noyo Harbor at Ft. Bragg for Dungeness crab and wild king salmon.

On to the Jackson State Demonstration Forest – met the host who directed us to a remote camp site next to a babbling brook. Crabs for dinner!

Gene, the camp host arrived with loads of folklore and local history with a suggested hike to nearby waterfall thru a red woo forest. Sun streaming thru to the forest floor – good for the soul.

Off to the Lost Coast – another windy road up and over the Kings Range. Walked the black beach where there is the fiercest surf I’ve seen. Stayed at BLM campsite surrounded by giant trees.

Redwoods and Cannabis reign in this area. Ads in the paper suggested a cooking class for cannabis.

June 19^th – Happy Father’s Day – Early morning walk with Marshall and Houlie : various trees: prickly Ponderosa, (cone), gentle Jeffrey and Sugar Pine surround us. So long to his family – hot ride down to Sacramento thru Napa and Sonoma to Sebastopol where the Luther Burbank Experimental Farm is. There is a 135 year old walnut tree he planted there. Very hot here. The story is that Burbank sold his rights to the hybrid potato he had created back in MA to a seed company for $150 in the 18 hundreds and left for CA. This is the Burbank Russet potato we eat to this day. Off to Bodega Bay on the Pacific – camped across from the beach. Very windy and chilly. Foghorn blowing in the distance.

June 18^th – Geo-caching day! Many finds around the Union Valley reservoir. Learning alot of the natural history from Marshall. Saw a pileated woodpecker right next to our geo caching site and eagles flying overhead...

June 17^th – Eldorado National Forest – Lots of sun – time to read, relax, plan and wait for the family to join us.

In the beginning June 11, 2011

On the road again. It’s sunny in California – surprise, surprise although they have had the same cold spring as we have. We arrived just in time for a great party on the beach celebrating the relief from winter. Lots of kids racing around and the local barbeque specialist came and provided the crowd with incredible ribs, California style. It was, incendently one of the girls friend’s birthday – so yummy chocolate cupcakes with loads of chocolate frosting.

My bike arrived and Marshall and the girls have given me a tutorial on proper shifting. And the girls set my up on the Wi program they have so exercising with them has been fun. They get a kike out of my un- coordination.

Next was a dinner cruise sailing on the lake in Marshall’s boat? It was a beautiful evening – clear blue sky – snow clad mountains surround the lake. It will be some time before the mountains are free of snow.

Next was end of school day for Madeleine with a picnic and then friend’s day at the beach. Barry washed and waxed the Casita so we are all set to head out to Eldorado National forest for a camping trip with the family and celebrate Marshall’s birthday and father’s day.

Vancover

2011-07-07T08:58:00.000-07:00

July 6^th From Foggy Dew to Vancouver

Awakened by the roaring creek at 56 degrees F. and got on my bike to ride the 4 miles to the main road. Met the Casita and off we went to Canada via the North Cascades Scenic Highway. Stopped in the town of Twisp for coffee. Believe it or not for this small town with one main street they have a coffee roaster and café along with a bakery called the Cinnamon Twisp!

On thru the town of Winthrop, a relatively new town made to look like the old West. .Has all the usual tourist attractions. This is also the area where the Smokejumpers Base is where fire fighters are trained to parachute into remote areas to fight fires. Twisp is becoming an arts town but the main street looked very quiet.

There is a 125 mile trail Methow Community trail that connects all these towns in the Methow Valley. As you drive along – winery, orchard of apples and cherries span the view. At some points the brown hills rising up from the green river beds almost look like a western Grandma Moses.

All along the Scenic Highway are trails including the Pacific Crest Trail and the road weaves between Ross Lake, Diablo Lake and Gorge lakes- all dammed to feed Seattle and environs power. At a look out with binocs, I could see the fire station that Jack Kerouac stayed at many years ago. Desolation Point.

At the visitor center fro the Northern Cascades National Park, I picked up Encounters with the Arch druid. John McPhee is the best. The first chapter is about David Brower’s

hike here with the miner from Kennecott Cooper. Another summer re read.

On to Canada – and traffic all the way to Vancouver. Staying in N. Vancouver and just had time after dinner to take a tour of Stanley Park. Folks here are lucky to have this – bikers, hikers, swimmers walkers – every one seems to be taking advantage of this verdant park with beaches and playgrounds and marinas.

Its nearly 10 PM and still light out.

Movin' On

2011-07-06T20:03:00.000-07:00

July 5^th

Left Rufus and headed toward the North Cascades National Park driving along the Yakama River Valley. This is a productive area for Delicious Apples, wine and cherries. Very well irrigated by the river and further on toward the north again the Columbia River. It is dry, high desert and hot. About 90 degrees.

Before we left Rufus, I send Madeleine Saxe, about to enter the 6^th grade, To Kill a Mockingbird. It is on her summer reading list and I re-read it after about 45 years. It is celebrating its 50 year anniversary as being one of America’s greatest novels. It’s a great lesson in the need for equality.

First stop on the road was at Toppenish which is a mixed and diverse city on the Yakima Indian Reservation. Had a long discussion about the tension that exists in the community greeter at the information center. He mentioned he was in the Marines in Maine and I didn’t talk like I was from Baa Habor. He mentioned that the Native Americans in the area get at least 2,000 a month from the federal government for not being able to fish because of the dams and more for the leasing of land they own to white folks. Also made a comment that they were free to give an amount of money to political campaigns. He shrugged when I mentioned the Supreme Court decision re. corporation as individuals. I have to give him his due that he wasn’t totally racist but implied that the Native Americas were.

I have become hooked on artistic murals. It seems that many of the towns here record their history on local buildings in the form of murals. I took a few pictures in The Dalles, OR and Toppenish,WA. where there are many to their credit. Apparently there is a Mural Society that directs and approves murals –they have to be before 1945 historically. We spent a lot of time today walking the town taking pictures which I hope to share. Each year on the first weekend in June the Toppenish Mural Society gathers a talented group of artist together to complete a mural in one day. This began in 1989 when “Clearing the Land” was created. Since that first mural more than 20 years ago, the local mural society has continued to commission artists each year for the event. Now there are 72 murals in the city depicting the city’s history.

Long day driving to Lake Chelan. My Lamaze teacher and honorary Vice President of the Sierra Club and New England Chapter member, Abigail Avery spoke of this area often. Abby was a staunch supporter of the club and always mentioned we should always recycle ourselves within the club of course. While the town itself was quite a disappointment, more lake Naples, ME – the first view of the lake from above was impressive. the state park not a place we could stay – only one site left and so crowded – definitely not our style – so off to greener pastures. Abby was one who came in the spring for the migratory bird sighting and helped create the wildness area in the northern part of the lake far from the maddening crowd.

On our way north we passed a number of parks and wildlife areas. – Not far from the highway was a mother osprey and babies on their nest atop a telephone pole. we finally have come to rest today at Dew Campground in the Ogandan nation al forest. We are the only camper here. The site we are at is on the point with the confluence of two roaring creeks bringing the melting snow from the mountains down to meet the Columbia River. We have seen the snow packed mountains in the distant off an on our drive. First Mt. Adams then Rainer and now the Cascades. Mt Baker tomorrow I am sure.

This has reminded be of the book, Encounters with the Arch Druid. A good read for anyone. David Brower, America’s pre-eminent environmentalist and form director of the Sierra Club goes along with those who would despoil the land for monetary purposes. It’s a series of venients - One with a minerals and min in expert, hell bent to mine the North Cascades Mountains. Guess what – National Park now. Also am reminded about Floyd Dominey and the Bureau of Reclamation and the Army Corps of Engineers all the while I have been here in the Northwest and the Southwest. Since we have been to Hoover Dam – think we can skip the Grand Coloee which is about 50 miles from here.

July 4th Rufus

2011-07-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

At the Gorge!

Brad and Trina with Barry at Rufus

No wind on the 4^th in Rufus – Waiting for wind is like watching paint dry. Off to Hood River to check out the scene there. Sure has become up scale since we thought of moving there 15 years ago . The area for kiters is cordoned off from spectators – however, none that I saw can do the tricks that our certified instructors can do. Stopped by to see Brad’s best man and family and to say goodbye.

Wrapping up in Rufus – off to Silak, WA for the murals and North Cascades National Park.

4th of July

2011-07-04T10:55:00.000-07:00

Happy 4^th of July!

Brad and Trina arrived at the park last nite. Doug and B and I went to visit Maryhill historic site yesterday. A beautiful home overlooking the Columbia River Gorge in WA. Legend has it that the guy Sam Hill wanted to create an agricultural utopia here but he was a few miles to far east and it was too dry. However he built this home for his daughter. With close ties to Romania royalty many of the sculpture and art inside are Romania influenced.

Story goes that this is where What in “Sam Hill” is ?????. Therefore the photo you see here. However< it certainly fits our program given what the artist said:

This sculpture invites the viewer to feel the freedom we all feel when we roll around and play in the grass. “I created this piece to remind us to enjoy our lives, and make time to play, like we did so naturally as children. I chose yellow because it is a playful color and reminds one of the color of sunflowers, and the brightest days of life.”

Rufus OR

2011-07-03T13:09:00.001-07:00

RUFUS

Fireworks and bar-b-que here at Rufus, OR. We are camping at the local park and enjoying watching all the wind mills across the Columbia River in Washington state. Behind the hill from Doug, not visible are about 2000 of the white giants. I believe they are still expecting more in this area about 100 miles from Portland.

W were at THE DALLES yesterday, a slightly larger town than Rufus where the Lewis and Clark expedition stopped to rest and where some of the group settled. Nice low key Farmers Market and toured the area observing many of the murals that depict the local history.

Loads of kite surfers here and RV occupants along side the river. In the area where we are, all weekend families have been arriving to camp, looks like a lot of family reunions, drinking buddies and some spiritual beings that can be found in OR. Doug is teaching today; taking a day off from building an addition onto his pole barn where he lives.

Below is the picture of Crater Lake where we camped in the snow before coming to Rufus. Expect to meet up with Brad and Trina later today.

Tahoe area

2011-02-14T22:55:00.000-08:00

Feb 13

Sunny and warm again!! We are at a Monterey County Park which includes the Mazda Race Way. I can barely hear them practicing going around the track – not an oval – but through the countryside a little and out of site at some points. Not a race day thankfully.

We have spent a lot of time enjoying the beaches around here from Big Sur to Monterey – Point Lobos, Carmel along with the wonderful aquarium – about the best I have seen – very children friendly.

On to Big Basin Redwoods State Park about 23 miles north of Santa Cruz and south west of San Francisco? Hiked thru the forest – about 20,000 acres that has been saved by grassroots organizing way back in the early 20^th century. We passed a 2,000 year old red wood among many others. It was getting cloudy with rain in the forecast – a new environment for us after the desert and then the expansive views of the Pacific. No sunsets to view thru the forest.

An early start toward Nevada over the Sierras was in order on the 14^th as a huge storm is on the horizon. We headed out on a winding, slalom course like road toward Saratoga near San Jose and the multi lane highways. The low clouds at times made what sometimes was a seemingly one lane road barely visible and a little scary.

Following the weather systems, we decided to take the lower route 50 rather than US 80 over Donner Pass down to Reno. You may recall that some have met their fate on that road. But fifty was a beautiful ride thru the national forest – the river valley has many of the old small camps before the Mac mansion era, that line the streams - much like the look of Rt. 16 in the Washington Valley in NH.

Now in Carson City, sorting things out and will be heading up to Marshall’s. Will get to go to Madeleine‘s birthday party since she got sick last weekend and had to call off her party. This is quite a frontier town - the state capital. However, we had a great Valentine Day dinner at a surprisingly good Sushi restaurant. It is so windy now that the trailer, even in a sheltered area is shaking. Snow is coming and we will be prepared to face Maine next week.

Cambria, CA

2011-02-09T12:32:00.000-08:00

Feb. 8

We have been writing a parody about how we are now at the Hearst Castle but that will come later. Out each of our 4 windows we have a view of San Simeon Bay. A tour of the Hearst Castle, only confirmed what we already knew that this is opulence beyond belief. Gold imbedded glass tiles on the ten foot deep in door swimming pool and a diving site!

We are enjoying this beautiful stretch of coastline, watching the elephant seals throw sand on themselves, searching for the migrating whales and taking walks in this park, nestled in the rolling hills next to the Hearst Corp. many acres of ranch land.

We are only a few miles from a small, wonderful artsy town, Cambria. I’ve had a lot of fun touring galleries while Barry enjoys all the food and candy shops. Lots of art to wear shops that have me wishing …..

We are off to Big Sur area today and then Monterey area. Hope to visit a long time Sierra Club friend in Pacific Grove. Barry is contemplating a lesson at Pebble Beach but I wonder if he can pass the dress code. Lucky for him the Morro Bay course was lenient on that count.

In constant contact with Marshall and family re. the weather over the Sierras. Looking forward to celebrating Madeleine’s birthday next week if it doesn’t snow. Will stop in Davis to see our niece, Lesley and visit so Sierrians there.

Morro Bay

2011-02-06T13:46:00.000-08:00

Feb 6^th

Spent some time at Rufigo Beach and then Morro Bay in our travels along the mid coast area. Surprisingly, we met up with some folks we had partied with in Borrego Springs. At the Morro Bay State Park. A great park – the CCC folks way back designed it and planted trees etc. Hardly anyone is here. Morro Bay and the estuary would be great for kayaking. I talked with a guy this am who was out on his paddle board – even had his dog on it – a little dog. He said it would be great in Maine too. I believe I have seen them around Isleboro - guests at a wealthy summer home.

At Rufigo we enjoyed watching the dolphins, seals and pelicans feast on the local fish as the tide was coming in, along with long walks on the beach. Yesterday we enjoyed the “Miracle of the Monarch Butterfly Migration” at Pismo Beach. Well trained volunteers gave talks about the life cycle and the importance of having milk weed in your gardens for the female to eat and lay eggs on. We observed the mating after which the male flies the female up into the eucalyptus tree. If she doesn’t think he is strong enough – she can reject him. Anyone milk weed is getting scares as are the monarch.

Off to the Super Bowl game!

2011-02-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

Jan 31

Back from my weekend divergence - a Sierra Club meeting in New Orleans; we are settled in a campground called Piru Lake in the hills near Burbank on our way back to the coast from Palm Springs. Its right next to a condor sanctuary – haven’t seen any yet however and in an Olive grove. Reminded us of our trip to Italy.

Barry played golf and did the laundry while I was gone. New Orleans looks pretty grubby still. I can’t understand why people stay up all night drinking and barfing in the streets – guess I am really getting old. Our hotel was near one that our family stayed in about 20 years ago. Back then it seemed like such a great town. However, I did enjoy eating binets at Café DeMonde. Met up with an old Sierra Club friend who lives in Montana. We had a lot of laughs and she is anxious to show us the hidden places in Yellowstone Park at some point.

Going back to Palm Springs from the coast the first time was poor planning but…. we did get a quiet little national forest site - Dripping Springs on the way back and the next day a trip to the Palomar Observatory. Lovely ride thru the hills and then 5000’ up the mountain on S turns. Barry spent a lot of time trying to figure out the engineering of the telescope . Pretty impressive! I of course noticed the sign that warned about light pollution do to the sprawling cities and towns near by. They ask that you don’t leave out side lights on etc. – a perimeter as far away as San Diego.

We have our coastal trip planned for this week from Santa Barbara to Big Sur. Watching the “colossal” storm that is heading toward the Northeast.

California Coast

2011-01-26T10:42:00.000-08:00

Jan. 26

Time flies when you’re having fun!

We have been watching sunsets, walking on the beaches and doing art galleries, hikes and a little shopping.

Spent some time in Carpentaria just south of Santa Barbara. Nightly lulled to sleep by the roaring waves hitting the beach just over the dunes from our campsite. Daily walking along this beautiful beach, observing the beautiful people and using their library.

I noticed in San Clemente that most of the streets have wide designated bike lanes and that after school there are a lot of kids – even elementary ones – riding home with their book bags. Pretty nice! Must be a really safe place

Took a tour of Santa Barbara - great walking town – really beautiful people here. Stopped in Territory Ahead – both discount store and REAL store. Lots of great eating places which we didn’t eat at but did hit Trader Joe’s.

Side trip to Solvang – a Danish styled village. A bit touristy but my heritage you know. Managed to stock up on lots of Danish pastry. It was a beautiful ride thru the hills – as was the next day’s tour to Ojia – an artsy community. Lots of avocados being grown – huge trees. We had never seen one before. Citrus too. We went buy the lake where the 1984 Olympics were held. It’s a camping area now. REMEMBER Joanie won the marathon that year. Seems like yesterday.

Went to Venice Beach – passed thru Malibu on the way - didn’t see any “stars” and Venice is weird – Lots of tattoo – and similar shops also henna and roller bladders and tourist. Barry insisted we go there. We did get a parking ticket which we didn’t notice until we were in a 2.5 hour traffic jam on one of the freeways thru LA. Luckily tit blew away. Oh well. I am sure they will find us.

The weather has been hot during the day and cool at night.

Hwy 101

2011-01-20T16:37:00.000-08:00

Jan 19

We are now in San Clemente at the state park right on the ocean. Had a nice walk on the beach after we cleaned the carpet because a beer spilled on it during our winding mountainous ride yesterday.

Ended up just north of San Diego in what turned out to be the worst site ever. Across the street from a commuter rail and highways – on the ocean but – It was smoggy, foggy and I was sick with a bug – slept all day and Barry read every word of the NY Times.

Things are looking up today. We traveled on Highway 101 for awhile north – passed the Self Realization Fellowship but I couldn’t get Barry to stop. That reminded me of my college sociology classes. I was really into it more like self actualization.

Rt. 101 has lots of restaurants, café, full bars, surfers, trinket shops along with commuter rail nearby. As we drove along we found a better park in Carlsbad – Will have lots of advise for our friends traveling this way. passed through Encinitas, on to Ocean side – This town is next to Pendleton Base – many welcoming marines signs around. We stopped at the farmers market – lots of great looking veggies and all the trinkets too.

Oceanside is a mix of Spanish, modern and Victoria – all the towns blend in together. Right in the middle of town is a huge power plant right on the ocean. Try to get that permitted these days.

Camp Pendleton is huge – covers many acres on both sides of Hwy 5 - I noticed some tanks moving around in a distant field. Passed a sign in a more remote section of fields and green hills “Camp Pendleton - Preserving Our Precious Resources: Cynic that I am.

On to a coastal nuclear power plant and then to San Clemente. CA shows how the budget crises effects everything they do. $60 a night with hook ups at the state park here - $35 with no –hook ups. .

The banks on the way down to the beach show considerable erosion – I think this area got hard hit with the rains a couple weeks ago.

Palm Springs Films

2011-01-15T11:43:00.001-08:00

In the library at Palm Springs which much to the annoyance of some of the customers complaining about CA budget – it didn’t open until 10am. “Imagine not opening til 10 on a Sat,” commented one irate customer.

Have seen three films at the Int. Film Festival here – All different and rewarding to watch. Loose Cannons was a great Italian film – a must see if it ever gets to USA theaters.

Enjoying the warm weather and since we have to stand in line for about an hour before show time- have meet some interesting people and had great discussions about films and other worldly events.

We had a nice dinner with our Arnold Rd. neighbors – the Bardack who come to this event every year. Doing a little swimming and will catch the Patriots game after our lat film on Sun. Community with Uma Thurmen.

Borrego Springs 2

2011-01-15T11:32:00.001-08:00

Borrego Springs - Jan. 12

Staying here for another day. Such a great site. Lynn and I went down “town” shopping in her truck while Gerry and Barry went to check out their bank in our truck. We found a great shop of very sweet clothes etc. Then joined the guys at the local sidewalk “café coffee shop”. Really nice sitting out in 72 degrees. Lots of snow birds appear to be arriving and greeting each other like long lost friends.

Had my hair cut at a local Shoppe? Very interesting single mom who has two daughters and is fighting the system. Meeting with the principal to insure that the money spent on sports is equally divided among the boys and GIRLS sports. They think I’m dumb because I’m a single mom and didn’t go to college. No one will take advantage of this gal. When told he kid wouldn’t make it in college she responded “Let’s not clip their wings before they have a chance to fly.” The new principal of the school lives in San Diego - a 2 hour drive to and from every day! Not very invested in the high school of 100 students.

While there, she gut a gentleman’s hair and I listened to the conversation about raising money for the soccer team etc. She explained later, he was a retiree – former Disneyland designer who was putting a lot of effort into landscaping the town with desert plants and very involved in the community apparently this is a place to hide for a lot of retired folks that can afford to live anywhere.

Another benefactor is the Avery label guy who has bought up land and is working with a sculptor who has provided metal sculpture of those plants, people and animals that did inhabit, and do inhabit the desert area in this area. They are placed all over town – some as one enters the town and others on back roads where we came upon a groups, first of grape pickers and then further down of the mastodons that once inhabited the earth millions of years ago of which fossils have been found locally.

Borrego Springs 2

2011-01-15T11:32:00.000-08:00

Borrego Springs - Jan. 12

Borrego Springs

2011-01-15T11:30:00.000-08:00

Borrego Springs

Looking for the Big Horn Mt. Sheep. Everyone but us seems to find them hiding on the rocks on the mountainside. A great hike up the canyon to a palm oasis about 3.5 miles round trip and still no sheep, even though Barry sat poised leaning on a rock with binocs for a long time.

Another day we hiked to a place called Coyote Canyon – way out on some really back country roads past acres and acres of lemon, grapefruit and orange groves. Not quite picking time there do to the colder weather.

We met some hikers having lunch at the bottom of the canyon who advised us about the trail up the ridge – strenuous. They haven’t hiked in ME over the rocks! S curves and steep grade but good exercise and aerobic workout! Just as we approached the top of the mountain there was a loud, huge roar and before we could focus on the noise an eerie looking jet fighter was headed over the valley beyond.

Breakfast outside for the first time in awhile. That drew our neighbors all around. Over cups of coffee we swapped stories and planned a day “in town” which is one street of interesting shops, a very inadequate grocery store, coffee shops, a library and very busy post office for all the retired folks who spend a quite winter here.

Interesting discussion over the campfire at happy hour with folks from UT who live near Snow Canyon in St. George (Gerry & Lynn) and WA state at Fridays’ Harbor (Tom & Jo). Last night a guy named Patrick wandered by with his bottle of Scotch. He was in a small tear drop type trailer that he made himself. A rather large guy – would like to have seen him pour himself into it. Patrick had lots of tails to tell about his years running his barge fro tourist on a canal in France and stories of his clients and the process of running through the locks etc.

His ex-wife still runs the barge while he enjoys living in Mendocino in summer and Phoenix in winter when he isn’t visiting the desert. He gave us lots of tips about Death Valley camping area with hot springs etc.

Adventure 3

2011-01-11T11:34:00.001-08:00

Slab City Overview

Jan 8. Brawley, CA

We have passed by thousands of acres of produce, several thermal energy plants and a feed lot of thousands of cows which I believe are dariy types. UGH!! Disgusting.

Finally arrived in Brawley where we spent time in a local coffee shop catching up on emails and then we were advised that the only bar showing football and perhaps the only bar was the Brawley Inn’s Aspen Lounge and Conference Center. We were lucky enough to meet the “president” of the bar upon entering and was welcomed by all his “subservients”.

Payton Manning was the favored player for most except an attractive young Hispanic women, Jet fan, in the crowd whose very over weight mom took a likening to us and kept us in the conversation during the commercials.

Hugs all around as we left the scene. Jets winning. Over weight mom, :probably never see you again but love you guys.”

Back to Slab City for the night. Luckily we had tracked it on our GPS and found Tank Rd. and our little Casita. The singing guy next to us had gone to bed but there was lots of activity on thru the night of cars and trucks and people talking.

Off bright and early after a photo opt of the area for Borrego Springs.

Salvation Mt

2011-01-11T11:28:00.001-08:00

Adventure

2011-01-11T11:26:00.001-08:00

Jan 7

Salton Sea area” Surprising to see this large lake in the middle of the desert but our next stop was at the 35 mile long lake at the state park. This was all formed over millions of years when the Gulf of California which extended up to this region, was silted up with continued floods of the Colorado River. It has no outlet and is currently mostly fed by agricultural run off as it sits within the Imperial Valley. attrack birds by the thousands. It is in fact a major fly way for migratory birds. The lack of water entering the sea is of real concern, if it dries a huge dust bowl will be created. The debate about what to do lingers on. Needless to say there are thousands of birds, herons, stilts, white and black pelicans and of course sea gulls among many others that we enjoyed watching as we walked along the beach which is sand covered by fish bones.

At one end of the lake is the Sony Bono wildlife refute area where we walked and observed lost of wildlife. The Preserve grows a variety of crops rye etc. that the birds can feed on as they migrate As we drove around the area, we observed many fields of turf and other green vegetables that we couldn’t identify along with palm tree farms, orchards etc.

It is a beautiful place but because the sea is so salty, very few fish can survive here and the die off causes and odor that is not all that pleasant. In fact 30% more salty than the ocean.

Suggested side tours recommend by the state park folks was Salvation Mountain and Slab City. Salvation Mt. is a cultural landmark of sorts. A painted mountain shrine of a local eccentric resident with a mission. Only seeing it and climbing it is believing it. A lot of foreign visitors were enjoying the back hallways and the biblical messages painted here and then the day we were there.

The next unbelievable place is Slab City. This area was the training site for General Patton’s army. All the buildings have been removed with only the slabs of the foundations remaining. Reportedly the winter encampment of scores of “snow birds” who come every year to dry camp ie “free” camping.

The first person we met there after driving around in awe ( the place has the look of some of the back roads of northern Maine where people have dumped their old washers and sofas) - was a women from NM who had lost her job and therefore sold her house and was living in her Casita – going to town on occasion to pay her Visa card on line and dumping her trailer. She was one of the LOWs – the Loner on Wheels. We hung out in this group as “visitors” since we were a couple. Down the “street” called Tank Dr. was the WINs 0 - Wandering Individuals Network. This place is a sociologist laboratory of the lost and found of the current economy, homeless network and just plain lost to society.

On Sunday morning the LOWs meet for breakfast. we were invited but declined as we had already had breakfast.

Sat. we are off to tour the area south of Slab city to find a Sports Bar to see the Jets and Colts game.

Desert CA

2011-01-08T13:28:00.000-08:00

THis is a damn at Joshua Tree.

Jan 7

Left Palm Springs and said goodbye to Welshers. Headed out thru the line up of car dealers in PS – BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar and then into Desert Mirage with Maserati, Bentley and Rolls Royce. Fist time ever I have seen so many maseradtes in one place!

On our way south to the Salton Sea – time out for coffee break. Looking for a “local” not Starbucks. We happen upon a grocery store. Surprised to find all the signs in Spanish, Hispanic folks doing their weekly shopping and mostly ethnic food. On bakery product looked like a bakery product and was eaten during the holidays was the special of the week... Huge round donut shaped loaf decorated but not sure with what. Later on TV – a Spanish speaking show – we saw a chef making just that. Unfortunately, not Spanish speaking, as we are – still didn’t get the name of the pastry. We did notice many baked goods we have seen before on our trips to Mexico. The fresh vegetable counters were piled with tomatillos, avocados (3 for .99) and other chilies. This was a place to by large packages of beans, tortilla of every type, tacos etc. We couldn’t resist buying Chips de Tortilla Coseros. Throughout the store Mariachi music entertained all the customers.

Joshua Tree

2011-01-08T13:18:00.000-08:00

Jan 5.

Another day in Joshua tree hiking among these amazing rocks and trails. Even had a few snow showers on our hike. Leaving on the 4^th for Palm Springs. we will be staying there a couple days then heading south, expecting to get back to PS to take in some of the International Film Festival festivities and films. Our neighbors on Arnold Rd. will be there – so hope to meet up with them.

A beautiful ride down thru the San Gregorio pass with mountains covered with snow and “then at the bottom to see hundreds of wind mills. These plus Altama Pass and another produce together enough power to light San Francisco.

Rode through Desert Springs which seemed a little depressing in comparison to the next stop- Palm Springs. Ah the beautiful and rich people reign. We were lucky to find a stop in the only RV park in town. RV parks don’t really seem to fit. A lot of Canadians are here for 6 months and some folks actually live here year round. The town appears bustling however, we understand there is 17% unemployment and 1/3 of the houses are empty. I certainly enjoyed the hot tub and pool and a opportunity to replenish the larder at Trader Joe’s.

Gas prices are going up for sure so we are planning our moves and activities carefully.

Right now the prices vary between $3.43 and $3.19/gal.

A farewell dinner at the “Best of Tai” in the valley with the Welshers in Desert Mirage, an even more up scale community. They will be heading back to Maine and we will be headed south. Barry and Larry had a last round of golf on a beautiful public course while Marsha and I lounged at the pool.

Route 66

2011-01-03T10:50:00.002-08:00

Route 66 and Beyond

Never thought we would spend so much time in the LV area but now we are on the road to sunny? CA. Sunny – it’s reportedly snowing.

We are now over the 6,000 mile mark on our journey since we started the day before Thanksgiving in the Serendipity. Now driving from LV through a valley surrounded, in the distance by hazy blue then black mountains. Close up there are sprinkles of snow spattered among the creosote bushes along the highway. The bush has small waxy leaves that smell like creosote when crushed but has nothing to do with the synthetic mixture that we in New England associate with the coating on telephone poles.

On our way to Route 66 and Joshua Tree we did a bit of exploring in the Mohave National Preserve. The visitors center here is in the former Canadian Pacific Rail Station at Kelso. The lunch room here is still operating. Kelso was a war time terminal for repairing engines and part of the shipping scene of war time much needed ores and minerals for making ships, aircraft etc. A beautiful Spanish style building. Two very long trains passed by while we were there carrying container cars.

Nearby are the Kelso Sand Dunes and The Hole in the Wall area. The sand dunes can be seen for miles around and when disturbed as one hikes across the ridge, makes a singing sound. The whole park has unusual rock formations and mesas dotting the landscape. In the spring we are told the desert floor blooms with native wild flowers.

We spent a very cold night at Joshua Tree Nat. Park among the unusual looking boulders that are a draw for hikers and rock climbers year round. The park was full of visitors and we were lucky to find a camping spot. The cool temperature inspired us to take a second night next to the Welsher’s in an RV park where we could plug in and enjoy the hot tub after a couple great hikes in the park. We are here another day and then on toward Palm Springs where I hear all the “snowbirds’ are headed. Snow is actually further south near the mountains in the LA region.

Las Vegas at midnight

2011-01-03T10:40:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

What a HOOT Las Vegas on New Year’s Eve. Next to Caesar’s Palace – Midnight 2010-11! And next to the Bellagio’s water symphonic display – fireworks showering over the crowd from three different hotels around the city. Barry videoed the water show being displayed to Copeland’s Rodeo.

It was a freezing night but that did not deter the “beautiful people” from showing up in spike heels, mini, and I mean mini skirts and even strapless dresses outside the various hotels. English was heard few and far between. It was certainly a worldly mix of people. Inside the elegant Bellagio Hotel under the beautiful Chihuly glass and among the opulent holiday decorations was a laughable mix of elegance and campers like us, dressed in our fineries. .

The free bus trip to and from our Sam’s Town RV park was a study in local color and a sociologist delight. The bus driver complaining about “who has his hand on the red handle” and “I smell matches and will have to empty the bus if you don’t take your hand off the red handle which is a fire alarm ”, then arguing with a guy who wanted a seat and there were none.

A few drunks, tourist and regular folks going to work or the festivities made up the mix of free riders. Returning was more peaceful, interestingly enough, only a Will Smith look alike in a white suit created a dramatic scene at the door of the bus as the line up of revelers were trying to get on. He seemed to be acting as the door man in an on stage debut – who to allow on and when he would be getting off. The driver was not impressed.

Back to the Casita at 2am – Ready to hit the road the next day to Joshua Tree.

Las Vegas again

2010-12-30T10:14:00.000-08:00

Dec 30: Very windy and cool - 45 degrees here in the Boulder City, NV area. Really nice campground and we have our alcohol stove to keep us warm. The libray here is large and accommodating our internet capabilities. We are off to rotate tires and visit the BLM, Red Rock Canyon in west Las Vegas today. For all its negative publicity and over use of electricity - there are great hiking opportunities and really lovely scenery here. Planning to catch the fire works at mid-night tomorrow. Then off to meet friends at Joshua Tree in CA.

2010-12-30T10:09:00.000-08:00

Dec 29^th – Just finished a walk across Hoover Dam on the Colorado River. Not really into dams but this is an engineering feat for sure. Can’t read Cadillac Desert and see China town without concerns about the water situation here in the West. And the population shift to this area.

Spent yesterday in Valley of Fire SP, Nevada. What an amazing place. The beauty of these red rocks and the huge valleys and canyons is indescribable. We hiked in one of the canyons to see the petroglyphf's and early today climbed up steep stairs to a petro area that is being preserved. I bought a petro dictionary so we can see if our guesses were correct.

Today we are in the Lake Mead area. Doesn’t compare to Moosehead but with the mountains all around it – quite impressive. Our friends are meeting us in the next day or two. Might hit Las Vegas for New Years. Why not?! We are here!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T09:18:00.000-08:00

Dec 26^th finds us still in Park City after having a wonderful Christmas with Brad and Trina. We talked or skyped with the family from NH to OR to WA and enjoyed Christmas dinner with long time Hosmer friends who spend the winter here in Park City and live next door to B&T.

Barry had a fabulous time skiing with Brad at Park City and on Christmas day with both B&T at Deer Valley. He started out on the green runs, adjusting to his borrowed skis and his high end duds and equipment. With the expert instructor at his side, he quickly advanced to the blue trails.

Deer Valley was another great day with two instructors. This is a high end ski area and limits the number of ticket sales and snow boarders. Here he elevated his skills and ability to black diamonds! While the turkey was cooking, I enjoyed snow shoeing on the trails outside there apartment building in bright sunshine. While the guys were are Park City, Trina and I did last minute errands and then cross country skied on the nearby trails. I cautiously proceeded on the tracks while Trina whizzed by skate skiing.

Today, Brad is giving me tutorials on using my iphone and itunes while Barry is giving tutorials on using his new tax program to Brad. We’ll be watching the Patriots game today, then heading south tomorrow back to Snow Canyon in St. George on the Lake Mead and then Joshua Tree in Ca.

Happy Solstice

2010-12-21T12:11:00.001-08:00

Happy Solstice One and ALL

The 21^st finds us in Snow Canyon State Park in Utah just outside St. George and near Zion National Park. It is a beautiful spot, carefully laid out campgrounds and trails that gives campers loads of privacy, a cover picnic area next to the Casita and full exposure to the magnificent red rock scenery. Further up the canyon which we drove thru on the way to the library because the wash was too full and eddying to drive thru, we could see the black lava fields and sandstone cliffs above as well.

Readers may remember old movies of Butch Cassidy and Jeremiah Johnson which were filmed here. Brings up memories of Robert Redford riding on his horse thru the snow. I think he may have lived a short time during this period not far from us in CT.

On to Park City tomorrow.

Glittering Place

2010-12-20T10:34:00.001-08:00

Dec 20, 2010

Looking forward to watching the eclipse on Solstice in Snow Canyon, UT. However, I was able to celebrate the day in advance with my Sierra Club friend, Jane who lives here in Vegas and is one of the organizers of a solstice ritual with candles and chanting! Fantastic. I learned some new rituals for our Maine gathering.

I have been talking for years about touring the country, visiting Sierrans on the way. Maybe this is a start. Jane and I of course lamented about the sprawl, water use, and federal inertia re. GW etc. but spent most the of day hiking in the Red Rock Canyon, BLM conservation area. One would never believe that this exists so close to the glitter of LV. The amount of electricity used here is astounding. Hopefully there is a lot of LED usage.

This area is the Mohave Desert while Tucson was the Sanoran Desert. The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is part of the BLM’s National Landscape Conservation System which is a diverse program that incorporates Wild and Scenic Rivers Wilderness Areas etc. This program aims at protecting and restoring nationally significant landscapes, cultural, scientific and ecological valuable areas. It is home to among other creatures the threatened desert tortoise.

Lots of ads on TV about how to save water – “It’s a desert out there! Be water smart.” and retail air conditioning sales are promoting the federal tax refund for buying a new air conditioner. They figure is adds up to about $2500.

Yesterday on my own I drove the truck down to the Strip and drove the whole distance gawking at the shows on the walls of the hotel and the folks walking the streets. I felt very powerful in my huge truck among all the other tourist. They say that after Christmas the place explodes with more tourist. Actually the ads on TV for New Years looks kinda fun. I did a bit of walking to “enjoy” the BUILT and BRIGHT enviro. Went by the Hard Rock where we stayed a couple years ago after Thanksgiving. ONLY IN AMERICA!

Las Vegas!

2010-12-19T11:05:00.000-08:00

A side trip to Las Vegas for a couple days. Barry has to fly back to MA for his brother-in-law’s funeral who had a heart attack in Fl the beginning of the week. Luckily I have a friend from Sierra Club’s Energy Team here that I plan to catch up with. We are in an RV park that is pretty disgusting, Must be over a hundred rigs– all bigger than us- here not far from the airport. It’s surprisingly, cloudy/rainy and about 55 degrees. But we get 28 channels on our computer TV.

Drove here this morning from Lake Havasu - a lake caused by the damming of the Colorado River boarding AZ and CA. For sure people gravitate to water. As we approached, there were houses and RV parks clustered for miles along the river. Havasu City is a sprawling place that boasts the London Bridge as it central tourist attraction. We had a hard time finding it and then realized we had crossed it. Our campsite was right on the lake – nice to hear some slapping of waves again – boats going by for hours. There are even palm trees here.

Spent happy hour at the local brew pup. They have some really nice local brews that we had a sample of – very friendly folks.

We left Catalina SP on Wed. the 15^th to go south to Organ Pipe Natl. Monument – decided to go boondocking on BLM lands around Ajo on the way. A little scary when we saw a sing saying CAUTION – SMUGGLING OF IMMIGRANTS IN THIS AREA. Lovely sunset with the ragged mountain tops in the background – pretty sandy here in the desert. A few free standing beams - remnants of old homesteads and an old fashioned wind mill were not far from our campsite. Off an on as we drove into the area we noticed a few other campers. We actually go a call from B’s sister out here in the wilderness. Cell phones work just about everywhere here!

Ajo has a nice green town common surrounded by Spanish style buildings, one of which is a train station; another houses a very modern library where we found Barry flights on line. Several old guys were there reading the morning papers.

Missed meeting up with the Welsher’s for Larry’s bday as we headed north on Thurs. for Las Vegas. It even rained on the way to Lake Havasu. – I thought that was unheard of at this time of year. We drove through Quartzsite RVs dot the landscape. And there are miles of “good Buys” on used ones on the main drag. The famous gem and xxx show is coming up in Jan. We’ve heard it’s a real zoo around there then. Looks like a lot of trinket and junk shops as well as gems are available. Larry is anxious to take part in this event, or at least observe it.

The ride here was through the desert, very little inhabitants - only at crossroads where the usual service stations and dismal looking motels were located. WE had planned to go over to Lake Mead today but the weather is rather gloomy so maybe we‘ll go the strip!

along the way

2010-12-14T12:42:00.000-08:00

Along the Way

A few side trips while in the Catalina area included a hike in Sabino Canyon, one of the most frequented and well know hiking areas around Tucson. Since dogs weren’t permitted, Marsh and Mo stayed around the base area, scouting out the neighborhoods and houses for sale. She found a nice one next to a preserve area with a hot tub!! She likes the warm weather here.

A chilly ride up the canyon on the tram allowed us ample time to hike the nearly 2.5 mi. down – giving us (Larry, Barry and me) full view of the environment, some exercise and less stress on the ankle which is still slightly misshapen from the pre- election date sprain. A rio runs within the canyon and during wetter times, there were lots of nice sandy beach areas along side the swimming holes - picnic tables and ramadas were strategically placed here. At one point on the way up the canyon, a cluster of AZ live oak trees covered with golden leaves glowed in the sun light – like fall in NE.

A side trip to Ted DeGrazier studio included an eventful GPS excursion in itself. Marsha has a map while Barry is directing Larry with my iPhone GPS. Need I say more?

This studio is a historic sprawling complex. DeGrazier is a legendary AZ artist whose ubiquitous painting of Mexican children most everyone recognizes and is seen everywhere. Most probably don’t realize his place in art history since much of his work is so duplicated on plates, cups, magnets, you name it.

DeGrazier got so angry at the thought of the IRS taxing his heirs once he was gone, he took thousands of dollars worth of paintings out into the desert and burned them.

The third exciting side trip for Barry and I was going to the sports bar to see the Patriots beat the Jets. No one minded my cheerleading either. Barry has tried in vain to get CBS and other networks on our “computer set” but no matter of additional equipment and trips to the hardware store have proved successful. His has sent for a more advanced program and discusses with all the local rig owners the problems while jealously admiring their equipment.

The 4^th side trip as we were leaving the area was to check out the Air Stream. We like it!

December 10 – Its going to be hot today 80 degrees We’re leaving the Saguaro area for Patagonia – not South America but AZ.

On the way there is an opportunity to observe a little of the Spanish history. Stopped at the beautifully restored Mission San Xavier (1692), widely considered to be the finest example of Spanish Colonial archtitecture in the US. The town of nearby Tubac is the oldest European settled city in AZ; a Spanish Jesuit outpost since 1691 with a well established and thriving art colony. The historical district has original adobe structures and ruins. Tubac was the staging site for Juan Baptiste Anza whose expedition to CA eventually ended in founding of San Francisco.

Patagonia State Park has a man made lake, apparently a few ranchers hoped to have a resort around it but that never materialized so the state made it into a park. Lots of ducks, blue herons and several species of hummingbirds live here. If fact, one of the non-migratory hummingbirds came to Marsha’s recently purchased feeder. While hummingbird feeders are okay in the desert parks, they ask visitors not to feed the birds – Seeds etc. – because they become gourmet delights for all the pack rats and mice around.

Collectively, we are starting to rank the campground restrooms:

Catalina – 9.5 – great showers (just like home), tile stalls, soap and paper towels

Gilbert Roy – near Sugaro – 3 – cold water, no showers, no soap, spider webs but

clean enough

Patagonia Lake – 6-7 – Nice hot water in shower, tile around, foot bath sink –

good for washing Mo who ran in the lake and had black legs and chin hair

Karchner – 9.2 Great showers, very clean, no soap

The desert night sky is ablaze with stars – its so clear and silent without a breath of air stirring. Barry is reminiscing about the celestial navigation he used in the olden days of sailing. He wishes he had his sexton with him.

We are in Kartchner State Park near Benson, AZ. A well designed and thought out Discovery Center lets visitors wander virtually through this World class cavern before taking a guided tour. So special is this place that it remained a secret with the two men who discovered it for several years while they kept exploring it and would finally quietly get a bill through the legislature to preserve is as a state park.

The route here from Patagonia Lake seemed like we were going through a gigantic caldera with miles of long golden grasses. Not at all like the desert environment closer to Tucson. Almost like California with golden hillsides and much more green vegetation.

Will join up with the Welchers who are in the city of Benson at the RV park today to do laundry, watch the Patriots and maybe swim in the pool then back to Catalina Park and the Tucson area to celebrate my birthday – out to dinner. Barry and I are planning to go to Biosphere 2 Marsha and me to a spa?

Desert Museum

2010-12-09T15:21:00.000-08:00

Wonderful visit to the Desert Museum on the w. side of Tucson near Saguaro Natl. Park. Barry has become an expert on GPS and we are funding our way around this area easily. There are lots of libraries where we can keep in touch with all our friends back east and beyond. More later on other outings and experiences.

Adventure 3

2010-12-06T10:54:00.000-08:00

ADVENTURE!

Serendipity has arrived in Tucson! December 3, 2010

The “I’s” (Interstates) through America the beautiful ain’t so beautiful. Perhaps a trip in November isn’t the best time of year to judge the landscape but from the road 100’ towering signs at every inter change of Shoney’s, Applebee’s, McDonald, Wendy, and occasional ADULT after Maryland, Mobile, Pilot, Love’s, Shell, Comfort Inn, Day’s Inn, Motel 6, Hampton Inn, Hilton Suites mainly shows off corporate America.

American Capitalism runs on Corn Syrup and Fossil Fuel!

Yummy Thanksgiving with Dave and Jen and Bennett along with Jen’s family in VT. AN uneventful drive over to the Brattleboro area. The Casita, all rigged up for the challenge of crossing America, was rather cool inside for the VT weather. Thirty five degrees inside and thirty five degrees outside. Needles to say, we dressed quickly in the morn, and high tailed it into the house. This old farm house is quintessential VT with a huge brightly burning fireplace, beamed ceilings and delicious hot coffee and Ellen’s omelets and fresh bread with wild cranberry jam.

An early start on Friday, Nov. 26, anticipating the first stop to be at Promised Land State Park near the Pocno’s. This was an all too familiar drive, having endured the long haul from Pennsylvania back home this summer in ninety degree heat. However, making great time through PA we by passed the Promised Land to another familiar area – western Maryland. We expected Wal-Mart in Cumberland would at least offer a flat space off the highway for the night but we delighted to come across Rocky Gap State Park and Resort a few exits before Cumberland. 10 Hours on the road!

Recognizing that our 30 year old alcohol, boat heater wasn’t up to the task of keeping us warm in VT, we purchased a small electric heater in Danbury, CT at Home Depot; I am embarrassed to say, on Black Friday. First time ever I have been in a store on that day.

Early start thru spitting snow in the mountains of MD and WV, would take us to Mammoth Cave National Park in KY. The gray day and mostly delicious tress made West Virginia rather drab and unappealing, unlike the summer landscape of green mountains and waterfalls we hiked in during the past summer. One wonders if the many hunters, their cars parked along the interstate, were successful in their quest. Sure was a lot of road kill along the high way.

Mammoth Cave National Park - twenty four degrees in the AM. We were warm and toasty. Reminders of my English teacher, Mr. T at GA years ago, side stepping across the classroom. repeating “tites from the ceiling and mites from the floor, RHYTHM, we witches are weird. “ My GA friends will remember DDT’s eccentricity and ability to teach spelling in a not so settle way.

Passed through Lexington on the way to the Park – miles and miles of white fences, beautiful farms, and of course, horses grazing in the pastures. Obviously, a more affluent area of KY. Passed by the National Corvette Museum – only in America!

From the Bowling Green area, we headed south and west to TN and AR, spending the next night in well organized and equipped State Park (Merman Shelby SP) near Memphis on the Mississippi River. We were one of the three campers there. Talked with a local dog walker who recommended the Civil Rights Museum - maybe next time. Hiked toward the river but realized we weren’t up to the nine mile trip to the shores so drove there in the park the next day. Viewed a huge barge taking what looked like ore down the river. Gas prices outside Nashville were $2.54 and have ranged around there the remainder of the trip.

By now we have crossed the Piscataquis, Connecticut, Hudson, Susquehanna, Ohio, Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas Rivers and two continental divides.

Onto Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas. Passed through Little Rock on the way to Hot Springs. This was our shortest driving day. And inspected by the Park Service Bath House Row on Central Ave. is a view of the Golden Age of bathing when over a million visitors a year came to be cured of their ills. In the ‘60s, traditional bathing began to decline and the bath houses came into disrepair. But, some have now been rehabilitated and are available for leasing. The Quapaw Bathhouse offers a modern day spa – their services are regulated we stayed at the park’s campground but didn’t take the time to go to the spa. However, while looking at our maps to find the library, a police car stopped to ask if we were lost and then gave us a police escort right to the library’s door. Now that’s Southern Hospitality.

Also, I can recommend their medical services. The Convenient Care facility helped me overcome the pain of an ear infection. All the nurses and PA's there wanted to go to Maine. They especially wanted to eat lots of lobster.

Arkansas has over 600,000 acres of lakes, many state parks and natural beauty along with the Ozark Mts., which makes it a state to visit during the summer months. We passed through the Diamond Lakes Region near Hot Springs on the way to Texas.

A long driving day ended after a slow rush hour drive through Dallas onto Mineral Wells Sate Park. Barry is becoming an expert with my iPhone GPS. Nice park with hookups – we even got TV on our latest modern application to the Casita. A small flat antenna that can sit on the roof and our lap top on the newly installed shelf over the bed. All the comforts and more of home.

Another 12 hr day’s driving to “get out of Texas’. Passed though Midland where lots of oil rigs were pumping and then miles and miles of wind mills – thousands. The right place for industrial wind power rather than the mountain sides of Maine – far from the need.

Its obvious driving through these areas there are
TOO MANY CARS TOO MANY PEOPLE! We have barely seen any public transportation and the cities are clogged with cars. Driving through El Paso, TX at rush hour and observing the sprawl here all the way to Las Cruses, NM is mind boggling and for this driver nerve wracking! Highways everywhere and no public trans.

Hooray! We are out of TX and in a fabulous State Park near Demming, NM. We never saw so many stars in the sky in the still mountain air. The Rock Hound State Park allows folks to dig for semi precious stones and even take some home. Morning walk around the botanical garden for viewing the flora of cacti etc. and then off to Tucson, passing through more hilly areas – lots of rocky precipices, arriving there around 2PM and greeted by friend, Larry.

Friday Dec.3 – Marsha arrived today. We toured the multi malls – Ugh Too many people too many cars, but did find a Sprouts Health food Store among several WalMarts. The town Oro valley was incorporated in 1974 No planning for sure with one mall after another all the same stores. Luckily we are in a nice State Park as part of the Coronado National Forest. We celebrated Marsha/s arrival with dinner out. Hard to find a restaurant that isn’t a national chain. This particular one has games every Sun. We inquired about the Mon. night game to see the Patriots vs. Jets. The owner came baby our table to chat. He’s from Pittsburgh and a Steelers fan. No one is from here.

Sat. Dec. 4 Great hike with two park volunteers who were very knowledgeable about the flora and fauna here. Seventy seven degrees this afternoon. Road runner ran thru our campsite this afternoon. Lots of birds – new to us – and many saguaro and other cacti. Learned a lot about the area from the guides. Arts and craft fair near by this afternoon. Different stuff than you would see in NE. Lots of turquoise and copper. Interesting local talent playing Christmas carols on the bass - about 10 tubas among them. Hot out but they all had wool caps in the holiday mode.

Sun/ Dec 5 The desert is an amazing environment- all so dependent on how to get and store water. Getting used to the still, dry air and the mountain sentinels surrounding us. The bird walk trail early in the am didn’t disappoint us, although I need a lot more practice in spotting them and then finding them thru my binocks. .

Just finished an interesting book, Eco- Barons by Edward Humes about visionaries that are helping to save the planet. Among them Roxanne Quimby and Jym St. Pierre. But relevant to this area of the country is how much Ted Turner has done to promote wild lands and resilient habitat protection here in the southwest and around Yellowstone to the Canadian boarder, bringing back species that are indigenous to the areas; including the wolf, much to the concern to some of the ranchers. He is all about creating corridors for the species to flourish and become sustainable.

He was much criticized for saying the cattle industry is responsible for 18% of the worlds GHGs . . U of Chicago scientist has said that if Americans would reduce their meat consumption by one fifth, it would have the same effect as if we traded in all our cars for Priuses.

Turner has the 250,000 acre Ladder Ranch in NM where he has reintroduced the desert big horn sheep (re-wilding) also wolf packs were then brought in - the balance of nature. The ranch is a major connector of the Sky Island Wild lands Project which straddles AZ, NM, and northern Mexico. It is an attempt to link corridors and mountainous habitats spanning four diverse ecosystems. Including the sub-tropical sierra Madre, the Sonorant Desert (Where we are) and the Chihuahua Desert.

Avoiding the traffic, we ventured into Tucson – lunch ala Mexicana including delicious margaritas, followed the turquoise trail to some of the local sites including the historic Presidio, Museum of Art and the Historic Train Depot = My transportation interest/ Good to see a train passing by but the depot looks kind of up scale trendy markets and restraints. Howe, there was statues of Wyatt Earp and Doc on the spot where Wyatt shot Stillman right there at the depot. Gotta love the Wild West.

The museum featured 100 paintings by Charles Fritz tracing the Discovery of: Lewis and Clark across the west to the Pacific. As an amazing feat as the journey was painting these in 1- years. I know the Sierra Club has done some canoe trips along the Missouri River following the expedition’s route. Would be fun to take that trip without any portages of course...

Hendersonville

2010-07-30T10:25:00.001-07:00

Now in the library - much expanded in the thirty seven years since we were here - at Hendersonville. The whole area has mushroomed. They even have a Talbots here along with the usual - Lowes etc.

Visited Brevard and checked out the Ecusta Mill - ALL Gone. Amazing - only the administration building is left. Attended the Music Center last night - saw and heard Ricky Skaggs. Place was packed. Very professional even if Blues catches me a little better. Non stop playing for over 90 minutes.

Its been very hot - Too hot to do much hiking - did walk around the Arts District in Asheville and checked out the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Packway. Most of our exersize is swimming in the mountain streams. We are staying in the Pisgah National Forest at Mill River. Wonderful refreshing river running nearby and met some interesting people. Will be in Hendersonville visiting friends for the next few days. Plan to take in Pickin' in the Park in Asheville tomorrow and clogging here tonight.

Boone

2010-07-27T11:07:00.001-07:00

July 27, 2010-- Boone, NC

In the library at Appalachian State University. Beautiful place. Carolina does have impressive schools of higher learning. (Two Saxe children are grads – Chapel Hill and NCState) There are at least 100 computer stations in this library. Spent some time in the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts today before heading to Boone Bagels for lunch. Long time since we’ve had bagels. This town has boomed in the last 10 years. Lowe’s and Walmart et al.

Just met the parking/traffic cop who is from Lewiston, Me so avoided a ticket and can stay on the street as long as we want. UMAINE grad who spent some time in film making in Hollywood and thought the east was a much better place to live. Married a gal who had a job here. Now he runs 7 hot dog stands around town and campus as well as being the mider of parked cars.

SPenidn our camp time in Cherokee National Forest just over the line in TN with day trip here and to Blowing Rock on the Blue Ridge. It is much cooler today which is a relief. But we had a refreshing swim in Lake Watuga in the Forest service area yesterday. Thunder storms roll thru around the mountains just about every day.

Off to see the Outdoor sculpture exhibition before heading back. Not sure where next Serendipity will take us.

Catchin Up

2010-07-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

Catching Up – 7-25-10

Waiting for a thunder storm to roll in brining some cooler breezes. When we awoke this morning it was 66 degrees but now if feels like 100. We are camped beside the New River just south of the New River Gorge. This is a Wild and Scenic River but this part of the area is overseen by WVA Parks and its shows that states are having budget issues. Robert C. Bryd is evident everywhere but not here. Every town, highway and bridge has a Robert C. Bryd somewhere on it. PORK reigns according to a local resident we ran across in a diner.

The river flows north from Blowing Rock, NC area and is truly a beautiful river; however, I just spotted a piece of a Styrofoam cooler floating down the rapids in front our site. We tried to take our daily swim but found the mud along the river almost like quick sand. Nearly lost Barry.

Before we left ME we found a great piece in the NY Times about how important it is to just BE – so we have had a great week of BEing and hiking, catching music events, swimming, reading and endlessly reading maps and brochures about W Virginia and finding our way to the next campground or site of interest.

Today we visited Tamarack which is a center for displaying the Best of W. VA in arts and crafts and they also have events there... It’s a modern circular building with a star patterned roof that emulates the stars in many of the local quilts. Studios are available to watch the craftsman and women make pottery, wood working and you name.

Also the cafeteria is staffed from the World Famous Greenbrier Resort where the rich and famous can hang out. And today there is a PGA tournament going on. Anyway – you get to eat great food cafeteria style – some of the great food they eat at the Resort. Like fried green tomatoes, fresh trout and corn pudding. Since I am reading The Chef about the CIA Culinary Inst. Of America and see how had it is to be a chef – it was a special experience. Take home was Green Briar Key Lime Pie and GB Delicious Chocolate Cake. _ Later on that. Too hot to eat.

Bake to the Greenbrier. Since 9/11 it is a forbidden place for the likes of us campers from ME. Seems that there is an underground vault build just for the US Congress in case of nuclear attaches etc. and unless you have reservations - it’s a no to even be onto the grounds. Of course we had to test it a little and understood that we should make a right turn onto the freeway. They have as many people working there as guest’s PAMPER!!
Maybe they are being too?

An early start tomorrow for breakfast in BOZOO – sounds interesting – then down to Tenn. Just north of the Carolina border near where our friends live in Mars Hill, NC.

Seneca Rocks

2010-07-27T10:51:00.000-07:00

Seneca Rocks 7-23

Off to Seneca Rocks – getting its name from the NY Seneca Indians. According to the information at the Discovery Hall they travelled down from NY foraging along the way. Unlike us for sure.

The Discovery Hall is run by the area is run by Forest Service and attacks rock climbers from all over. Not into that activity – however, I did convince Barry to take the 1.5 mile hike up the mountain to the viewing area which was a strenuous climb in the heat. I looked like a cooked lobster when I finished.

The Discovery Hall points out all the issues and problems that the lack of good stewardship of the land has had in the past. Followed d By “It’s up to you to decide how we will go forward. That message is pretty consistent in every area we have been. It up to us to save the planet – we have used it up in the past for industrial and material purposes - we haven’t come to coal country and that will have to be another trip.

After lunch and catching our breathes – headed thru back roads and Forest Service roads to Spruce Knob – WVA’s highest spot in the state. 4,846 – somewhere like that. Typical alpine floras – lots of nice wild flower. _ Laurel, thistle bee balm etc.

Back to our favorite swimming hole. – Exhausting day – leaving tomorrow for . Sandstone Falls.

Switched gears and went south to Pocahontas Camp ground - We were the only campers there. Took a ride to Lake for swimming and then back for a littl

Elkins

2010-07-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

Elkins, W VA

It’s the Purple Fiddle in Thomas that had the great music. Two sisters in the Risin Appalachians were fantastic – will share their tunes at a later date.

Raining and misty in Black Water Falls. So headed to Elkins. Checked into the Stuart Rec. Area in the National Forest. Great place – we stayed 3 days. Forest service does a great job and hires hosts to over see campgrounds. They have a fabulous swimming hole here on the Cheat River too which is a big attraction for us.

Pickin on the Green starts in early evening here at the Park in Elkins. Anyone with an instrument can show up and play. Real Mountain and blue grass music. The banjo player seemed to be in the lead and seven a or more guitars joined in. A white haired woman went wild on the bass.

Davis – Elkins College here hosts a summer music camp. This week was Blues Week. The teachers are all nationally and internationally well known Blues players. At the concert on Thurs each one played at least 2 pieces and once that a/was over – had a dance and band music after. We stayed til 11PM. Musicians are on a different time schedule for sure. .

A silent auction was on going. I didn’t win anything but notices a North American Blues Festival tee shirt and the Sapphire Girls that I had seen in Rockland. I also saw Sapphire and several others I have heard in Rockland. They mentioned pine Top Perkins – one of the great we have also seen at Rockland. A great evening of music. KEEP THE BLUES ALIVE!!!.

Blackwater

2010-07-27T10:48:00.000-07:00

Out of range for a few days - sending a few messages today to make up for the black out.
First: Excuse - too busy to spell check.

On the road again to Blackwater Falls. Very foggy and misty today but on the way here yesterday very mountainous with wind mills dotting the ridge lines. Beautiful site except for the transmission lines. Then - next turn in the road - A huge coal fired power plant spewing air pollution and many, many hods looking trucks bringing coal from a near by mine. Visited Thomas and got loads of pictures of local color but can't get them from my i phone to the computer - email is very slow. A sing on a window at this small town" STOP THE PATH - no more transmission lines.

Thomas and Davis are called twin cities by the locals . Old coal mining towns but Thomas has a ski area and this park has great cabins and a lodge that folks stay in for winter excitement.

However, the Purple Fiddle was a shaking place last night - Beer served in Ball canning glasses, the local hang out but lots of tourist too to hear the Rising Appalachians - a really great band and two women - sisters who are totally pros. We should get them to come to the Venue. Can't possibly write here the experience but will document later with pictures. The wild west has nothing on this place.

Have some good hikes planned if the weather clears and off to Elkins for a couple days of other good music. The College there has a fantastic summer music program for students with top notch performer/teachers who will be jamming in the park tonight.

Maryland

2010-07-19T13:08:00.001-07:00

Left Pittsburgh yesterday. Traveled through hilly countryside - very few evergreen trees but lots of greenery. Sparsely settled. Spent most of the day at Falling Water - frank Loyd Wright masterpiece. Barry toured the home which I have seen a few times. I had fun touring the gift shop of many beautiful pieces of art and books. All pricey!

Very hot! Ended up having a logn swim in the Youghihenny River near Ohiophyle. As we drove the town - many rafting trip and outfitters there - a zillion people were floating down the rapids = looked like great fun but no parking so off w e wnet ot find a lake.

Can't buy beer in PA in stores only at destribaters. What a losss. Also no alcohol in any of the parks so I have to drink lots of iced tea.

Fierce lighting and rain storms thru the night at this Ohiophyle State Park. A malfunction in our awning caused it to partially collapse and much to B's chargrin - I think we need a new one.

We are now at Swallow falls in Maryland near Oakland where we used to live. AThe town sure has changed.

Off to find a swimming spot. Pictures later.

Pittsburgh

2010-07-18T06:59:00.001-07:00

Great visit with friends Taylor Lautner is staring in a film being shot a couple doors down from our firends house. No wonder it takes so many millions of dollars to make a film. More staging and equipment and people on the street. lots of teen age girls standing on the corner waiting for a look at the star. Security is heavy but we got a tour of the house that is being rented for the filiming , Abduction, by the owner whtle the stars and crew were at lunch. That was at 11 pm at night.

Enjoyed a night at a Caberet in down town Pitt - Polish Festival and tour of the city.

Off to Falling Water today.

Penn visit

2010-07-18T06:55:00.000-07:00

The week is nearly over - no network connections and no phone service. Pretty nice to disconnect.

Met long time Olin friends in CT. Beautiful area in the north western part of the state on the Housatonic River. Cornwall Bridge – covered Bridge and all. Lunch at the Meadering Moose! Checked out my friends art work – very talented. Spent two nights at Lake Warmaug State Park. Lots of Wall St types live around it. Also lots of for sale signs for these mainly second homes.

The lake was so warm and there were so many people in it,I wondered about the water quality. Next day visited the White Flower Farm where most or many of the potted plants at Odonals Skillin and Esterbrook come from. We got some good ideas for next spring’s planting.

We are now at a very special place in mid Pennsylvanie on the National Register of Natural Places, Rickets Glen State Park. Some of the tress in the area are over 300 years old adb there are 22 named waterfalls, one being 94 feet. We took a 3.5 trail hike down one side of a gorge and up the steep other side, seeing almost all the falls and explaoring around them. Lots of pictures to share later.
These falls are in the book A 1000 places to see…..

Cooled over in the great river feed lake and will start to plan our route to Pitsburgh.

2010-07-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

Tales from a Casita – Part I

On the road again. A delight for any Sagittarian. Alas our carbon footprint is growing but I AM SPREADING SEEDS OF EFFICIENCY TO ALL MY FRIENDS AND OTHER FOLKS WE MEET ALONG THE WAY. My broken wrist sometime goes into capitols – Bare with me.

Incredible downpours slowed us down all the way to our first destination – October Mt. State Forest in western MA. The Ranger lamented that we had missed the Mahler concert on the Opening night at Tanglewood but we assured him we were ready to take in Sunday’s event with Pinchas Zukerman.

Thelma and Louise ( all be it a tad older) were camped in a self contained van – portable clothesline and all, next to us.. We enjoyed watching them put together their camp stove. One reading the directions to the other.

Next door a couple from Amherst, NH – son graduated from the high school my son Dave teachers at. He complained that it’s a place of rotating principals. Dave would probably say and meddling parents. He had a Scamper. Of course all along the way people – like he – have been stopping an admiring our little casita. FUNNY how interested total strangers are.

Hot – very hot. We found a shady place on the lawn at Tanglewood. Stopped at Havens in Lenox ( for those you going to the area – a place not to be missed for brunch and bakery) to pick up a birthday cake for our friend Ginny whom we meet at Tanglewood. Great to be able to celebrate with her. For the past 3 years she has joined me for all the arts and culture the Berkshires has to offer. From the Clark and Massmocha to Jacob’s Pillow and beyond.

It seemed like the grounds we covered with everything from blankets to portable picnic tables, fancy candelabra and flowers to beer coolers. The lawn was packed as was the Shed. Zuchman was the usual consummate artist playing Mozart’s violin Concert No. 5 but Richard Strauss Ein Heldenleben was so powerful, dramatic and full of pathos – brought tears to my eyes.

Then we google – SPAIN WON!!

Hot Very Hot – Back for a swim in a nearby Lake Laurel - perfect day!!

Nuclear Power

2010-02-03T09:24:00.000-08:00

Now even Maine's Governor Baldacci is mentioning the possibility of nuclear "nukes" to help wean us off imported fossil fuel. Disappointing. Nuclear power is not safe,
affordable, or clean with currently available technology and practice and mining uranium risks workers’ health and creates toxic residues.

Let the gov know and our Senators and Representatives and President Obama that we need to go back to the drawing board and continue to promote energy efficiency, public transportation and renewables to decrease and eventually gett off our addiction to fossil fuel.

Clean Energy Jobs

2010-01-29T13:52:00.000-08:00

There is nothing clean about nuclear power. Just ask those folks in the uranium mines in Africa and elsewhere. Of course we who use all the energy never do see these folks or the health problems and the mill tailings that pollute their neighborhoods.

While President Obama did a good job of taking Congress to the woodshed and admonishing the Court - but "To create more of these clean-energy jobs, we need more production, more efficiency, more incentives,” Obama said in his speech. “That means building a new generation of safe, clean nuclear-power plants in this country. ” is troublesome.

There is nothing safe or clean - ask Dr. Arjun Makhijani author of "Carbon-Free and Nuclear-Free: A Roadmap for U.S. Energy Policy" (2007) about how we can curb global warming.

And there is no such thing as clen coal.

COP 16

2010-01-11T18:06:00.000-08:00

I'm told we should get our bathing suits ready to go to Cancun for COP 16. However, it seems like there is even less space for meeting in Cancun than in Copenhagen. Quite possibly, NGOs may get shut out once again. Mexico's President Calederón's speech to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs last week re COP 15 regarding the process, said something is needed to break the vicious circle of developed and developing countries pointing fingers and not wanting to go first.

Mexico as a poor but developing country wants to take its global responsibility seriously and for that reason will organize COP 16 in Cancún. He specifically mentions the problem with the consensus process in addressing the world's most important issue and that everyone has to take the necessary diplomatic steps, developed or not.

2009-12-31T09:20:00.000-08:00

2009-12-31T09:14:00.001-08:00

Reflections – Part One

Upon entering the airport – the first sign greeting passengers –

The Waste from Your Flight Could Heat This Building Two Hours.

Next – at every turn throughout the city were HOPENHAGEN signs.

Maybe its time to add an America “Hope” to get Climate Legislation passed in the Senate, while looking forward to Bonn and Mexico.

The people behind Hopenhagen are volunteers from all over the advertising, marketing and communications industries who have donated their time and resources to the campaign’s creation.

They created the campaign in support of the Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, when, a little over a year ago, sensing he would need help to create the momentum required to get to a strong deal at COP15, he approached the industry for help through the International Advertising Association.

Check it out and join - http://www.hopenhagen.org/mission

Back in the USA

2009-12-30T05:38:00.000-08:00

Back in the USA - still in the glow of the many candles lighting the city of Copenhagen and the warm welcome we received. The joy of the season, our annual Solstice bonfire and party, welcoming back the sun, the family Christmas in Vermont has given me further resolve to lower my carbon footprint and work towards encouraging others to get involved in the effort to reverse the adverse effects of climate change for all the worlds’ kids and grand kids.

While HOPENHAGEN created an atmosphere of optimism and encouragement, to quote President Obama, COP 15 was, ”Less than many had hoped,” and we will need to redouble our efforts here in convincing Congress to pass meaningful climate legislation.

The last picture I took at the airport before boarding the plane - first stop Iceland - was the poster of the Danish Prime Minister apologizing for the lack of success, courtesy of the NGO tcktcktck.

The oft quoted, “legislation is like sausage making” doesn’t hold a candle to making agreements among 192 countries of the world that have their own “special interests”.

Countries agreed by consensus on a compromise to "take note" of the Copenhagen Accord, instead of formally approving it which calls for reducing emissions to keep temperatures from rising more than 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above preindustrial levels.

Next steps will include:
Emission targets must be submitted by 1-31-2010
with no legal obligation, richer nations will finance a $10 billion-a-year, three-year program to fund poorer nations' projects to develop clean energy
Mobilize $100 billion a year by 2020 for the same adaptation and mitigation purposes

Give a gift to the Planet your children and grandchildren by cutting your carbon footprint in 2010. All our friends from around the world deserve Climate Justice. You can help those in the developing, low lying countries and Pacific islands by becoming more energy efficient.

Best Wishes for the New Year!

Latest Notes from COP 15

2009-12-16T02:04:00.000-08:00

Wednesday 12/16/09
Nice suit! Everyone in his company has this special suit; a special order from Singapore. Turns out he, Paul Vaiagafa of Recharge, had a beer with Governor Baldacci in Spain during the trade trip a few months ago. “ Say hi to John,” he said! Recharge is “The Global Source for Renewable Energy News.”

Still hoping for a FAB – Fair, Ambitious and Binding agreement here but…

Lots of criticism of UN due to poor planning to manage the thousands of people here. Yesterday, I waited in line for 2 hours – freezing cold - they even sent out the “national guard” to serve free coffee and tea – through the fence. They even managed to put up signs “Free Coffee Courtesy of the Danish Government” - totally limiting access to the event - even the subway station is closed at the Center.

Lots of back room negotiations going on prior to heads of states arrivals. “Civil Society” is being cut off due to security and capacity reasons. Fewer and fewer NGOs will be allowed in the finals days. I managed to see the opening meeting of the high level session, more ceremonial than substantive. Al Gore was in the audience and Prince Charles spoke. I will catch Gore tonight off site at a venue near our flat, the old Carlsberg Brewery.

I caught NY Times, Tom Friedman in a discussion with Danish Minister of Economics and the CEO of the largest shipping company in the world. What is the role of government, business and the people in transiting to a green economy? TF – “Green is the new Red, White and Blue” America is the problem and we need to push our leaders. Nothing new but his sound bites pleased the audience. Shipping i.e. bunkers, is a huge issue re the negotiations.

Ran into DEP Commissioner Littel – He has been very busy here at different side events. Missed his talks so far but he did offer to come and repeat them in Maine

CAN I (Climate Action Network International) have over 500 NGO’s as members – Sierra is one – and leads the groups in their advocacy efforts. Also collectively, awards the Fossil of the Day Award – US has managed to receive two so far: No commitment on long term financing and low target on emissions reductions.
Fossil press releases and videos can ALWAYS be found here:
http://www.fossiloftheday.com/

Inside the Bella Center:
http://connect.sierraclub.org/post/Groups/Copenhagen_Climate_2009/blog/videos_sierra_club_voices_from_copenhagenpart_2.html

http://connect.sierraclub.org/Groups/Copenhagen_Climate_2009/blog

http://tweetphoto.com/6416430

THE March & Beyond

2009-12-13T22:25:00.000-08:00

Its been an exciting weekend. Here is the pictures of the candlelight ceremony at the end of the long long march. Long because of the numbers of people with banners and signs and just slow moving. All told around 60,000 people plus the anarchists that were arrested. We where very close when the riot police arrived after huge fire crackers exploded. Didn't seem to be any reason for other than making a scene. Some of teh placard were great- "bla bla bla- act now" and the like. Most of us met for dinner followed by a fabulous tour of an outdoor photo exhibit of pictures of 100 places that may not be seenagain if we don't act to curb GW.

Sunday, Desmond Tutu gave an inspiring speech at city center to the world and presented the UN with over 500,000 signatures asking for Climate Justice. After today our access will be limited to the Bella Center sue to the numbers and security but there are many other activities going on that we can take part in.

Last evening many Sierrians had dinner with the Blue Green Alliance. Today they begin a World of Work Pavilion - Unions have the Solution.

Livable Communities Tour

2009-12-11T01:07:00.001-08:00

This picture is Commuting Danish style. Today I joined a US DOT organized bus tour to explore how livable communities effect transportation emissions. Copenhagen is know as on of the most liveable cities in the world.
• Since 2002 it has had one of the most state-of-the art transit systems in the world
• Transit oriented development is a priority
• Copenhagen has a “finger plan” of connecting riders to public transit and beyond which is a result of rail infrastructure built in advance of demand to steer growth in desired in desired areas
• Sixty percent of residents live within 15 minutes walk of green spaces or ocean parks
• Today 36% of its residents choose to go by bike to work

The Minister of Technology and the Environment joined us to explain proudly the various areas where they had made changes or planned changes in transportation systems to promote pedestrians and bicycle ridership and safety. Over one popular bridge an electronic bike counter at 10am, showed that 19,000 bikes had passed; according to the officiasls, generally it will be up to 37,000 a day pass over this bridge coming into the main area of the city. and the I should point out that cars are discouraged by the 180% tax. Most people, if they have cars, don’t get them until in their 40’s. The minister also explained that it is cheaper to build bike lanes than highways. While its hard to think of riding a bike in Maine during a snow storm, he also pointed out that its not the weather that is the problem it a clothing problem. Of interest is that each biker when registering the bike receives a micro chip for the bike in case of theft the police can search for it.

COP15 is still suspended. Not sure what is happening in the back rooms. Hopefully the negotiators are working on a resolve of the TUrvulu questions. Meanwhile all the side events and demonstrations carry on.

Secretary of Interior Salazar spoke today, rather positively about Clean Energy Jobs as a growth industry, using public lands for renewable energy and the their importance in combating climate change in carbon sequestration (CCS) Unfortunately he went on to recommend CCS research and the need to continue using coal.

2009-12-09T15:15:00.000-08:00

Ken Cline and I at the island of Samao. The day are still very cloudy and gray.

COP 15 Stalled and More

2009-12-09T14:54:00.000-08:00

Today the Pacific island nation of Tuvalu demanded that two legally binding treaties that commit developed and developing countries make major reductions in their greenhouse gas emissions by the end of COP 15. They requested that a new set of commitments under the Kyoto Protocol, plus another agreement that puts countries like the United States, which are not part of Kyoto, into the mix.
Several other small island countries and African nations agreed. Tuvulu asked for a formal working group be formed to study their proposal. This set off major objections from larger countries, as well as China and India. This brought the conference to a halt. Stay tuned.

Ken Cline, 3 COA students and I journeyed to the Island of Samso, my ancestral home land to tour the Energy Academy with Soren Hermansen who inspired Vinalhaven to set up their turbines. An adventure by train and ferry and bus which was well worth the effort. Three Japanese and a Chinese reporter were on the ferry with us and joined the local bus ride with us to the site. Later we learned that a representative of the Japanese delegation and former negotiator at the Kyoto COP was one of them. More on that visit later.

2009-12-07T13:52:00.000-08:00

This pictures is at the Climate Exchange - a display booth of the Danish Society for Nature Conservation. Today stood in line for about 2 hours before we could get into the building to get our credentials. High security - like going thru an airport. Yesterday there was a bomb scare which turned out to be a suitcase of clothes.
I met some folks from around the world. The clothing of those NGOs and delegates from Peru and some of the African counties are especially attractive mixed in with all the black suits of the officials.

Sierra Club folks are meeting once a day. We learned today we will be meeting with the US Delegation tomorrow. The US State Dept. is in charge of all negotiations - the chief of the delegation is Jonathan Pershing. He will brief us and take a few questions. This will be our opportunity to push for our ambitious agenda.

As one walks around the exhibition hall of NGOs, one can get pretty depressed at the outcomes that could happen if we don't act soon. Everyday, International Climate Action Network )ICAN) selects a "Fossil of the Day" with a big rally around the presentation event. Today's award went to the world's industrialized countries.

Besides ICAN, the club has joined Global Campaign for Climate Action (GCCA) - the TCK TCK TCK Campaign to make action happen - doesn't deal with policy. Works with the 350.0rg group and will be organizing the march on Dec. 12th and meetings with Desmond Tutu on Sun. We will also be having a dinner with Blue Green Alliance folks on Sunday.

The youths, I was told by Brook Welty, had a huge rally this am and I saw the China Youth Delegates in a photo opt position rallying there group. Of course I can't say what their message was. However, everyone does speak English which is a big help.

While searching for the COP15 bus today, I went to information at the train station. He saw my Cool Communities "COOL" button and said - oh you have a badge - your trip will be free. And the bus driver nodded my "badge" and nodded me on. Interestingly - the bus drivers switched mid-trip. The departing driver waved and wished us all a good meeting.

We are looking for FAB - Fair, Ambitious and Binding deal here.

Keep warming well below 2 degrees C.
Industrialized countries as a group must take a target of more than 40% below 1990 levels by 2020.
Developing countries must be supported in their efforts to limit the growth of their industrial emmissions, making substantial reductions below business -as-usual.
Developed countries need to provide at least US$195 billion in public financing per year by 2020, in addition to ODA commitments for developing country actions.
Double counting must be avoided.
An adaptation action framework that immediately and massively scales up predictable and reliable support to developing countries to adapt to the impacts of climate change
Copenhagen outcomes must be legally binding and enforceable.

2009-12-06T10:50:00.000-08:00

Arrived in Copenhagen

Chilly and foggy when I arrived. Seems like winter but no snow. Toured the major area of the city where all the Summit highlights will be held. Our landlady attended the Copenhagen Climate Exchange Expo with me and we were very impressed by all the emphasis on climate and renewable energy. I met up with the Energy Academy folks from Samso and will be heading over there on Wed. by train and boat for a tour. It was the closing day of the Expo and the Danish Minister of Climate and Energy, Connie Hedegaard spoke. The crowd was please when she said the grass roots have created the pressure it took for many heads of state to come here. "THe political pressure has worked and we need to continue. Things are moving in the right direction. We have the knowledge ... we know the solutions. The time is now. Keep the pressure on - not just for an agreement but an ambitious agreement. The world needs this very much."

She was strong in her statements about we can't wait another six months or a year. Lets just come out of here wiht a strong agreement.

2009-12-04T18:26:00.001-08:00

On the Road to Copenhagen

2009-12-04T18:23:00.000-08:00

Counting down to Sat. the 5th . Flying via Iceland to Copenhagen. Hope to see and hear President Obama on the 19th. Keep in touch for all the accounts of the Summit - hopefully day by day starting Monday the 7th.