Roger's Travel Blog

Saturday 10/31 Halloween

2009-11-01T11:25:00.001-08:00

It was about 4:PM when I suddenly had the urge to paint my face. I had no ideal what form it would take and it ended up with something completely different from what I usually do.

I picked up my friend Ellen and we drove through the Castro; it's not like it used to be when they would close off the streets. We then went to the Park Chalet and had a nice time talking over drinks and good food. Later we came back to my place and met up with Patricia and watched reruns of Family Guy. It was good to be with Ellen again.

Saturday 10/24 afternoon a walk on the beach

2009-11-01T11:15:00.001-08:00

This is one of our storm drainage outlets. SF had a couple of big storms within a week of each other with a combined rain fall of 3.5 inches.

You can also see pictured some of our local taggers at work.

Saturday 10/24 afternoon a walk on the beach

2009-11-01T11:06:00.000-08:00

Ocean Beach condos as seen from the Pacific Ocean water's edge. My condo is on the extreme left but not visible from this angle.

Saturday 10/24 NY Met Broadcast

2009-11-01T10:55:00.000-08:00

We went to the Empire Theater in the West Portal district so see the New York Metropolitan HD Silmulcast of Aida. Since it is a simulcast the show starts at 10AM. Many opera fans are starting to realize what a wonderful opportunity this is to see close up a world renown opera company.

If you are interested to find a local theatre near you that will be simulcasting the NY Met in HD go to www.fathomevents.com

Saturday 10/17 Russian River

2009-11-01T10:43:00.000-08:00

Lamplighter friends went to a private camp for an overnighter. Each of us brought a dish to share and we had a delightful dinner. It was very rustic and sleeping reminded me of summer camp as a kid.

This is the kind of place that I'd like to go on a rainy weekend to read a book and walk in the elements.

Sunday 10/11 A cool foggy day in GG Park

2009-10-11T16:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday 10/11 A cool foggy day in GG Park

2009-10-11T16:20:00.000-07:00

.Here are some more of the lakes in the part and the casting pools

Saturday 10/3 Jim M Birthday party

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More birthday party people.

Saturday 10/3 Jim M Birthday party

2009-10-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

John Z and I attended the 50 birthday party for fellow Lamplighter Jim M. He is here pictured with his wife Judy. I always thought she resembled my sister Mary June.

Friday 10/2

2009-10-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

Thursday 10/1 was the second anniversary of Dario's passing and we celebrated him today. John Z came over on Friday afternoon and we walked to the Park Chalet, sat in the sun, and tossed a few. It was a nice warm day at OB about 68f. After a light lunch, the restaurant GM bought us a round of drinks on the house. She knew Dario and somehow intuitively knew we were celebrating him. It was very sweet of her to do that. In the evening cousin Paul came over and we took our wine to the condo roof for more toasting. I played with my zoom lens again and discovered that it is only good for close up pictures and not distance shots. In the two bottom pictures you can see our ever present Tsunami warning system rearing its head so majestically. On the bottom picture you can see a row of porta-potties that were set up in the afternoon to be used the next day for the sand castle contest. This is an annual event for several of the elemental schools. The kids help by fetching pails of water and the actual design, construction, and sculpting is done by the sponsors (architectural, engineering, and construction). The sunset was beautiful today. Dario loved the sunsets at Ocean Beach.

Sunday 9/27 Afternoon walk in Golden Gate Park

2009-09-27T14:28:00.001-07:00

Sunday 9/27 Afternoon walk in Golden Gate Park

2009-09-27T13:46:00.001-07:00

I was a warm hazy Sunday at Ocean Beach and a walk into the park seemed appropriate. The critters were ever present and I couldn't resist the photo opps.

There seemed to be a lot of Monarchs fluttering about. I still don't have the zoom technique down as this one is a bit blurry.

The same with this Red-Shouldered Hawk. But when you double click you can still see that blue piercing eye which was following my every move.

The Great Blue Heron is a frequent visitor to the Park lakes. This one lives in the tree tops of the tall surrounding trees. They tell me that there are three famlies of these that live in the Park which is about all that the food chain will support.

Sunday 9/20

2009-09-20T13:39:00.000-07:00

We're at the beginnings of a heat wave that will start early this evening and last through the rest of the week. The temperature could reach 85 at the Ocean which is a rarity. Right now it is still a cool 65f because of the fog. Pictured here are more Golden Gate Park Lakes.

Sunday 9/20

2009-09-20T13:35:00.000-07:00

I decided to go for an early walk in the park. These are a few of the lakes and ponds in Golden Gate Park within 10 to 15 minutes walk from my condo.

Friday 9/18

2009-09-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

It was 72f at Ocean Beach today. Pictured here is the southern end of the Golden Gate Bridge with Angle Island in the background.

By double clicking the picture to enlarge it, you will get a clearer view of the arched support structure under the bridge. Behind that area is where a scene from Hitchcock's Vertigo was filmed. This is where the Kim Novak character jumped into the water and the Jimmy Stewart character saved her.

The air was a bit murky because of a small grass fire in the Marin Headlands just to the left. It was extinguished. As you can see, warm weather brings out the pleasure crafts.

Friday 9/11 Sea Ranch/The Departure

2009-09-12T11:17:00.001-07:00

We were on the road by 9:ooAM. It was a very laid back and restful vacation.

This frog outside the front door sums it up quite nicely.

Thursday 9/10 Seventh Day at Sea Ranch/The Sunset

2009-09-12T11:11:00.001-07:00

We had a nice dinner at the Top Of The Cliff in Gualala. This picture was taken from the restaurant window.

I love the palm tree silhouetted against the sunset. I's so out of place and I think the only one I have ever seen in the area.

Thursday 9/10 Seventh Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

Breakfast was again at the local coffee shop so we could use the internet. I spent most of the morning re-booting and trying to log on to my blog. I finally gave up and decided that I would have to update the last two days when I got home.

This is a picture in back of the coffee house of some more driftwood art.

Thursday 9/10 Seventh Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-12T10:33:00.001-07:00

I was concentrating so much on the fox that I didn't see a deer approaching from the right. He seemed very curious and approached the little critter in that manner. The deer was not aggressive but almost in a playful mood. The fox was not afraid and looked at the deer as if to say "don't bother me, I'm hunting for my breakfast" and then he slinked away.

You will have to use your zoom to enlarge the picture. To the right of the deer you can see the fox leaving.

Now I feel complete. It took a week but I got that fickle fox on my camera. The deer was an added bonus. Looking back I should have used my zoom lens...but in the heat of the moment any picture was OK with me.

Thursday 9/10 Seventh Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-12T10:15:00.000-07:00

It is 6:45AM Thursday and at last that little fox has allowed me to get a picture. You will have to use the zoom to see that he is in the middle to the right of some small shrubs. The best is yet to come.

Wednesday 9/9 Sixth Day at Sea Ranch/The Sunset

2009-09-10T10:56:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful sunset to end the day.

Wednesday 9/9 Sixth Day at Sea Ranch

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More pictures along the coastal trail. This is looking South towards Shell Beach and Driftwood Beach

Wednesday 9/9 Sixth Day at Sea Ranch

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More pictures from the coastal trail.

Wednesday 9/9 Sixth Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-10T10:37:00.000-07:00

We went to The Sea Ranch Lodge for breakfast and to see if the internet connection was any better than the coffee shop...about the same. I spent the afternoon walking north on the coastal trail and took some more pictures. Above is another hedge row and the other picture is me trying out my soom lens.

Tuesday 9/8 Fifth Day at Sea Ranch/More evidence of the vampires and The Sunset

2009-09-09T10:56:00.001-07:00

Before retiring for the evening, we went to the local cemetery as we had heard more rumors about the visitors from True Blood. Here is confirmation that Bill and Eric (and another) had spent the previous day in coffins to avoid the sun.

Sunsets are a confirmation that we lived through another glorious day at Sea Ranch. The night however was to be avoided.

Tuesday 9/8 Fifth Day at Sea Ranch/The Desecration

2009-09-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

We had heard rumors that some vampires had been seen in the vicinity last night. No doubt Bill and Eric from True Blood. Much to our horror, we found proof of this; inside the Chapel we found this poor sole. Such desecration!!! The police said that this was a random fang crime and the victim was at the wrong place at the wrong time....or right time....depending how you view this sort of thing.

Tuesday 9/8 Fifth Day at Sea Ranch/The afternoon

2009-09-09T10:39:00.001-07:00

After visiting the Annapolis Winery for some vino tasting, we stopped at the Sea Ranch Chapel pictured here.

Tuesday 9/8 Fifth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning walk.

2009-09-09T10:34:00.001-07:00

Walking back to the house, I stopped by the area where I had last seen Monday's fox. This is the little den where he disappeared.

Tuesday 9/8 Fifth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning walk.

2009-09-09T10:30:00.001-07:00

Some volcanic rock and strata at Driftwood Beach. There's a geological story here.

Tuesday 9/8 Fifth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning walk.

2009-09-09T10:26:00.001-07:00

The tide was out so I could get some pictures of the tidal pools. I looked for some sea creatures and urchins but to no avail.

Tuesday 9/8 Fifth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning walk.

2009-09-09T10:05:00.001-07:00

I am always fascinated with the innate need to create. These driftwood sculptures were assembled by holiday visitors on Monday.

Tuesday 9/8 Fifth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning walk.

2009-09-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

Not very many wild flowers this time of the year.

Monday 9/7 Forth Day at Sea Ranch/The Evening

2009-09-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

The end to another glorious day.

Monday 9/7 Forth Day at Sea Ranch/The Evening

2009-09-08T08:21:00.000-07:00

The afternoon was very laid back. Reading, sun worshiping, and relaxing. The little frog sculpture outside the deck area is an acurate picture of how it is.

2009-09-08T08:20:00.001-07:00

Monday 9/7 Forth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning walk.

2009-09-07T11:30:00.001-07:00

Walking back, a deer suddenly popped his head up and stared at me until I was out of sight. There was a movement to the left and I saw a red fox running for the under brush. This fox was much smaller with more red coloring than the one I saw on Saturday morning. Now I'm starting to think that the Saturday fox was really a gray fox.

In the center of picture #2 there is an oval area. I saw the fox for a second time as he scurried into a covered area just through that opening.

Missed the fox/photo-op again, but I will not be discouraged...he will not escape me for long.

Monday 9/7 Forth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning walk.

2009-09-07T11:24:00.000-07:00

Pictured here is one of the many tidal pools.

The wooded area also pictured is called a Hedge Row which parallels the Ocean and acts as a buffer during the winter storms.

Monday 9/7 Forth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning walk.

2009-09-07T11:03:00.001-07:00

Walking South, this is another view of Driftwood Beach from the other end.

Monday 9/7 Forth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning.

2009-09-07T10:52:00.001-07:00

Pictured here is an unexpected visit from the Gualala Fire Department. Outside the kitchen window I saw some smoke coming from the structure and people running towards it (our place is on the other side). It seems that the fire was in the garage. I told John that it probably was a Meth Lab. What ever, they put it out.

Monday 9/7 Forth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning.

2009-09-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

Here comes the morning sun...as seen from the deck.

Monday 9/7 Forth Day at Sea Ranch/The morning.

2009-09-07T10:40:00.000-07:00

I bounced out of bed at 6:30AM, grabbed the camera and searched the area for critters. Alas nothing this morning. Pictured here is the grassy meadow outside the living room window.

Sunday 9/6 Third Day at Sea Ranch/The evening

2009-09-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

After my sun time the rest of the day was spent with reading and just doing nothing...down time. It's very necessary to have a vacation with no set schedule so you can vegetate and regenerate.

I watched one of my all time favorite movies that happened to be on AMC..."How Green Was My Valley." I love that movie. It brings up lots of emotion.

Some cocktails, some good food and it was to bed at 11:PM.

Sunday 9/6 Third Day at Sea Ranch/The afternoon

2009-09-07T10:10:00.000-07:00

After my morning walk, John Z and I made our daily trek to Gualala to get the SF Chronicle and go to the local coffee house for espresso and internet connection.

Arriving back at Sea Ranch, I wanted to get some sun but it was too windy for me on the beach (I don't like getting blowing sand up my nose and other orifices) so I sat in this protected area on our deck off the living room for about 45 minutes. I will do the same tomorrow (wind permitting) but I will double the exposure time.

Sunday 9/6 Third Day at Sea Ranch/My morning walk

2009-09-06T10:59:00.001-07:00

Still walking North on the bluff trail with Gualala up the coast about 2 miles.

Sunday 9/6 Third Day at Sea Ranch/My morning walk

2009-09-06T10:54:00.001-07:00

It's sunny with a cool breeze. These are pictures I took while walking north on the bluff trail

Sunday 9/6 Third Day at Sea Ranch/My morning walk

2009-09-06T10:50:00.001-07:00

Two hours later I went on my morning walk and saw the family of deer again.

Sunday 9/6 Third Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-06T10:45:00.000-07:00

I was up at 6:30AM looking for that illusive fox. No fox this morning but a family of deer grazed out the kitchen window for about an hour.

Saturday 9/5 Second Day at Sea Ranch/The sunset.

2009-09-06T10:40:00.001-07:00

A little television, some reading, and then to bed.

Saturday 9/5 Second Day at Sea Ranch/The sunset.

2009-09-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

Miraculously the fog dissipated in time for the sunset.

Saturday 9/5 Second Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-06T10:24:00.000-07:00

After lunch I went for a walk to watch the tide come in.

Saturday 9/5 Second Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-06T10:15:00.000-07:00

We had lunch in Gualala and this picture was taken from the back of the restaurant. The fog is still with us.

Saturday 9/5 Second Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-05T18:24:00.000-07:00

Saturday 9/5 Second Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-05T18:02:00.000-07:00

While I was making my morning espresso (I never travel without my espresso machine...except Switzerland) and gazing out at the Pacific, suddenly, there staring at me, was a red tailed fox. I stared back as it walked into the meadow grasses. I could see its head still looking this way, then it disappeared. That was the beginning of a delightful foggy morning. The picture is from the kitchen looking out where the fox first appeared.

Friday 9/4 First Day at Sea Ranch/The sunset

2009-09-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

After a light dinner at the Sea Ranch Lodge, we headed back to the Driftwood. It was an early bedtime for me.

This picture was taken from the Lodge restaurant.

Friday 9/4 First Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-05T11:16:00.001-07:00

For those of you who don't know, the following is a brief history of my connection with Sea Ranch.

John's wife Jean, died suddenly in May of 2007 and 5 months later Dario passed. The four of us had vacationed here during the summer of 2005 and 2006. So for the last 2 years, John and I have returned just to spend some quite time and some R&R. It's all a process.

Friday 9/4 First Day at Sea Ranch

2009-09-05T11:03:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Sea Ranch at 1:PM. The weather was sunny, with a cool breeze. I was rather pleased to find that nearby Driftwood beach was where last year we had scattered some of Dario's ashes. Pictured here is the area.

Thursday 9/3 Sunset at Ocean Beach

2009-09-03T19:48:00.000-07:00

Yipee!!! I'm on vacation. Tomorrow John Z and I leave for a week at Sea Ranch. If you have never heard of Sea Ranch you can check it out at

www.searanchescape.com

Click on;

Our Sea Ranch Vacation Homes

Oceanside Meadow

Driftwood

This is where we will be staying but you can have fun checking out the other places.

Wednesday 9/2 at sunset.

2009-09-03T19:21:00.000-07:00

Taken from my condo roof looking East with the moon coming up.

Sunday 8/30

2009-08-30T15:18:00.001-07:00

As they predicted, today was about 20 degrees cooler at the Ocean. We call the fog our "instant air conditioning." I love to walk when it's cool outside which I was doing when I snapped this shot of the Marin side of the Golden Gate Bridge.

I paused several times along the way to remind myself that I live in one of most beautiful places on earth. I am very blessed.

The day ended with Patricia, Carl and I watching True Blood. The finale will be on 9/13.

Tomorow is back to work. I leave in 5 days for a week at Sea Ranch.

Saturday 8/29 Sunset at Ocean Beach

2009-08-30T11:40:00.000-07:00

Today, five of us gathered at the Park Chalet for some microbrew and munchies. It was a warm day at the Ocean with the high about 68f but in the sun it was around 76f. This was much less than on Friday which was 85 with about 96% humidity...a rarity.

My partners in crime besides myself , were Patricia, John Z, Cousin Paul, and Randy (boyhood friend visiting Paul).

After 2 1/2 hours at the Park Chalet we walked back to my condo for an hour of very necessary H2o hydration. This, I believe, is the key to no hangover...lots of water.

Those are not clouds pictured above; it is fog starting to come on shore. Tomorrow, Sunday, will be foggy and cool at the ocean. I love the fog.

Thursday 8/7 Sunset at Ocean Beach

2009-08-28T13:06:00.000-07:00

I just got word that my friend Sister Sharon Krenn, RSM, passed after a long battle with Parkinson's. This beautiful sunset seemed quite appropriate.

Sunday 8/23

2009-08-23T21:20:00.000-07:00

On Sunday evening we gathered at John's home to watch True Blood on his new 50" Samsung Plasma. He served a beef burgandy that was to die for. The dish was prepared yesterday by both John and Patricia. It was a cooking lesson for Patricia and they used the recipe from Julia Child's The Joy of Cooking.

I am at home now watching the Miss Universe contest. I love to watch beauty pageants. I can't help it......it must be genetic.

Work tomorrow.

Saturday night 8/22

2009-08-23T11:00:00.001-07:00

My long time friend, fellow Lamplighter, and fellow Michigan Transplantee, is Dan Yelen pictured here at the Yerba Buena Theater Marquee of My Fair Lady.

It was the 3rd time I saw this production and was by far their best! It really peaked on Saturday night. Gone were the technical problems from the 8/15 matinee. What I saw on Saturday night was a strong, fluid, first rate staging of a classic musical. Kudos to the whole company!

Seeing so many fellow Lamplighter friends also attending was an unexpected treat. Many of us had been in the 1992 production of MFL and we had a great time reminiscing.

Upon arriving home, I had another glass of that delightful 1995 Langtry Meritage I had opened the night before. It was about 12:30AM when I drifted off to sleep, "while visions of MFL danced in my head."

Friday 8/21

2009-08-21T19:29:00.001-07:00

It has the Tarantino Signature stamped all over it; dark humor, violence (but done in good taste), subtle wit/humor, plot twists, great acting, editing and directing!!!!! Enough of babble; go and see for yourselves....that means you, Jerry and Denise of Page, AZ.

Ah, the nose on the Meritage is delightful. A sip brings a hint of spice, black cherry, a light tannin, and an aftertaste of oak.

The picture above is of the ceiling and chandelier at the Castro Theatre.

Friday 8/21

2009-08-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

I just opened a 1995 Langtry North Coast Meritage...it is breathing even as I write this. I need something to bring me down and stabilize my psyche which has just been assulted with Quentin Tarantino's Inglourious Basterds. I just realized that he spells it using ...terds instead of ...tards. That sums it all up quite nicely.

The 3:30PM showing at the Castro Theatre was filled with Tarantino philes and believe me, they were not disappointed with his latest masterpiece, including yours truly.

Sunday 8/16

2009-08-16T20:23:00.000-07:00

Just as the sun was setting, I ran to the roof in time to capture it's passing. The end to another perfect weekend.

On Saturday 8/15, I went with friends John Z and Patricia E to the matinee of My Fair Lady at the Yerba Buena Theater in downtown San Francisco. As I mentioned in last week's blog, this was the flow blown production I wanted to see (with sets and full staging).

It was clear that this baby would not peak until next week..probably the Saturday night performance (8/22). That is a problem that plagues huge shows like this when it is presented it 3 different venues over a short period. By the time you adjust to the peculiarities and confines of one space, you have to pack up and move to the next. And that's what happened with the matinee we saw; there were doors that didn't open, which is always frustrating to the actor who suddenly has to be creative while remaining in character; backdrops were catching on the scenery; proscenium valances would suddenly unfurl in a flurry of dust...most distracting. But those glicheses are delt with and usually corrected in time for the next show. But just when you start to get comfortable with your surroundings, the show closes. I am reminded how blessed we (Lamplighters) have been in the past when we were performing in our own theater. The peaking curve was much shorter back then and when it happened, that was when you started to have fun with the show. It was at that time when friendships were solidified, and bonding was forever.

I had great fun watching my friend Jim Campbell, the show's Production Manager, who was sitting in the balcony. He reacted to each of the technical mishaps by smacking his forhead, sinking into his chair, and hiding his head in his hands. His performance should have been captured on film and worthy of an award.

But it was still a glorious show filled with enduring music, wonderful singing, wonderful talented actors, and creative staging by Barbara Herioux. I really enjoyed myself despite the technical stuff. Besides, it was John's birthday and after the show we gathered at our friend Blazen's home for a lovely dinner, stimulating conversation, and great wine. A loving way to end the evening.

On Sunday evening we all gathered at my place to watch True Blood, the HBO series that has reached cult status. Now that's entertainment!!! Sorry, Jerry and Denise, it is just simply the greatest!

To bed, to bed; perchance to dream.

Roger signing off.

Wednesday 8/12 Sunset at Ocean Beach

2009-08-12T20:42:00.001-07:00

Taken from my roof; the Cliff House, Seal Rock, the Marin Headland, and the Pacific Ocean.

Wednesday 8/12 Sunset at Ocean Beach

2009-08-12T20:31:00.001-07:00

Taken from my building's roof.

Sunday 8/9

2009-08-09T20:42:00.001-07:00

Just another beautiful weekend in Paradise. Stay tuned, there are many more to come.

Roger

Sunday 8/9

2009-08-09T16:32:00.001-07:00

There were many friends in the Napa show that I hadn't seen for awhile. Some of us went out for drinks and food after the show. It was so good to see them all.

I arrived back in San Francisco around 11:30AM and I was so releaved to feel that it was much cooler than when I left Napa which was going to hit 100f today.

Seeing the two Golden Gate Bridge towers protruding out from the fog was very comforting. I new then I was home.

Saturday night in Napa 8/8

2009-08-09T16:12:00.001-07:00

The Saturday night performance was a musical success. All the leads were very strong musicians. I am pictured here with my dear friend Shelley Johnson who played the part of Mrs Higgins (a non singing role). She had a "Grand Dame" of the Engligh Theater approach to her character and it really worked.

The outstanding performace of the evening went to Sharon Rietkerk who played Eliza Doolittle. Her musical ability plus her acting talents combined to have the Napa audience standing on their feet. I will look forward to seeing this show again when it comes to San Francisco. This will be a full blown production with all the sets.

Guest star Geoff Hoyle was also outstanding with his comic/clown approach to Alfie Doolittle. But in my mind there will never be another Alfie Doolittle like Norman Hall's. Norman did the role in 1992 and reprised it in 1996. He is simply the best!

Saturday night in Napa 8/8

2009-08-09T15:48:00.001-07:00

This is a shot from my balcony seat. The small performance space presents a series of challanges when a large production like My Fair Lady takes the stage. All previous blocking was drastically altered and no sets were used. Just a few necessary props and costumes...those gorgeous beautiful costumes. I was in the Lamplighter's original production in 1992 and 17 years later the costumes are still in good shape. Credit goes to Melissa Wortman who designed the show.

The orchestra is completely out of view in the pit. There is not a bad seat in the house.

Saturday night in Napa 8/8

2009-08-09T15:36:00.001-07:00

This is the outside of the Napa Valley Opera House. It was built in 1879 and restored just a few years ago. The integrity of the original facad has been kept intact but the whole inside was gutted and upgraded to accomodate current stage technology. The only thing that they were able to keep was the balcony railing.

Napa 8/8

2009-08-08T15:48:00.000-07:00

Another picture of my upgraded room at the Avia. There is a flat screen TV on both sides of the petition with a common gas fireplace. Yes, Cheryl, I am by myself.

I'm off to explor downtown Napa. The Opera House is within walking distance so I will stake it out for my arrival tonight at 7:30PM to pick up my tickets.

Ummmm....I feel an urge to do some wine tasting. Also I need to get something to eat.

Later....

Napa 8/8

2009-08-08T15:35:00.001-07:00

Here I am in downtown Napa at the Avia Hotel. They upgraded me to a suite, don't you just want to pee? I mean a free standing tub next to the bed!!!! I love it, of course.

Before I left San Francisco, I paid a visit to my dear friend Ellen Smith who is convelesing at the Lawton Rehab. Center. We spent a quality hour together, with 20 minutes of that in the sun (out on the patio), and the rest of the time was taken up with lunch and some good laughs.

I got on the road at 1:30PM and arrived here at the hotel at 2:45PM.

Friday 8/7

2009-08-08T10:38:00.001-07:00

This is a view of Ocean Beach from the top of Sutro Heights. My condo is the first one in the second row.

The weekend is here and I have decided to drive up to Napa on Saturday and spend the night. The Lamplighters http://www.lamplighters.org/ are presenting a semi staged concert version of My Fair Lady at the newly restored Napa Valley Opera House which is my reason for going. Of course, a little wine tasting will be in order but that is just secondary..... I performed MFL with them back in 1992 and it has always been a favorite. Most of my close friends go back to our performing days with the Lamplighters (I performed with them for 35 years) and we all remain close to this day. Attending one of the productions is like a homecoming.

Friday 8/7

2009-08-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Moi with Marin Headlands in the background.

Friday 8/7

2009-08-08T10:34:00.001-07:00

Here is a picture of the Marin Headlands with Mt. Tamalpias in the background where we scattered Dario's ashes.

Friday 8/7

2009-08-08T10:26:00.000-07:00

I made it through my first week back at work after my trip. The jet lag really took the wind out of my sails.

Today is one of the first days without our summer fog. This picture of the Golden Gate Bridge is about a 10 minute walk from my place.

The atmosphere is still a little murky but no complatints here. I love all the elements.

Day seven in Switzerland/home to San Francisco

2009-07-30T10:28:00.000-07:00

I spent the night at this hotel as it was close to the Airport.

The 8 hour flight home went quickly. I spent the time watching season seven of "24" on my portable DVD player, napped, read my book, and consummed junk food. Why is it that traveling and junk food seem to go hand in hand?

My first experience going through Customs was at JFK. It probably took about an hour. After customs, (no horrow stories to tell) I had to recheck my bag and go through security again. The departing flight from JFK was delayed 1 hour because of bad weather. But, the scheduled arrival time into SFO was only late by about 30 minutes. The flight from NY to SF seemed endless. I was glad to be out of that cramped space and breathing Bay Area air again.

My housemate, Carl, picked me up and I was back at Ocean Beach by 8:PM. I couldn't figure out why I felt so strange and disoriented....dah!...I had been up 24 hours and it was time to go to bed.

Day six in Switzerland/Zurrich

2009-07-28T14:02:00.001-07:00

This reminded me of Venice..not that I have ever been there. They even have gondola rides here on the river but it was too late in the day as I could see them tied up next to the dock. Zurich is very clean, even the water is clear and clean. On my next trip, I would like to spend a few days in Zurich and do it up right.

My plan leaves tomorrow for JFK at 10:20AM via American Air. I plan on getting some proper sleep tonight.

ta ta

Day six in Switzerland/Zurrich

2009-07-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

It was like being in a foreign film... the ones back in the 60s (I'm sorry that some of you cannot relate). I sat at a table, sipped on some espresso, had a light salad and watch the scene. I love it!

Day six in Switzerland/Zurrich

2009-07-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

I loved Zurich. I took the city train from my hotel to downtown and then walked to the "Old City" which is pictured here. This is exactly what I wanted to experience....the European way of opening up the restaurants to the streets. All bars and restaurants did this...they were at every alley way and on every corner.

Day six in Switzerland/Zurich

2009-07-28T13:35:00.001-07:00

The train back to Zurich through the mountains was as spectacular as it was going. Changing trains 3 times was not so much a drudgery as I thought it might be. I was much better at it this time. Pictured here is Lake Zurich.

I connnected with a couple from San Diego (Mike and Carolyn) while on the train to Zurich. They had been in Switzerland for a month and were headed back to SD. They took advantage of the "home exchange" site from the internet. A family from Bern exchanged with them and they said it has worked perfectly and it is very cost affective. They encouraged me to do the same the next time I travel.

Day six in Switzerland/my last day in Gstaad

2009-07-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, at the request of my cousin, here is a picture of me at the Gstaad Train Station with my big red monster...I'm talking about the suit case, Cheryl....

Day six in Switzerland/my final day in Gstaad

2009-07-28T00:03:00.001-07:00

It rained most of the night and when I went to sleep around 3:AM there were only brief shower periods. This morning it is cool and the coulds are still hanging about.

I will miss this little valley and its ever changing mood. It's time to go but I will be back.

The train leaves for Zurich at 10:15 and I'm mostly packed and ready to check out. The hotel shuttle will take me to the train station.

Day five in Switzerland/the final concert

2009-07-27T23:29:00.000-07:00

The pipes at Rougemont Chruch.

After the concert and back at the hotel, I briefly said my good byes to Michael and Yvonne and I noticed that Mihaela, the pianist from tonights concert was sitting in the lounge area with her boyfriend. I just had to meet her so I went over and introduced myself. She is very "down to earth" as I expected. She will be in California in August for concerts in Fresno (I didn't have the heart to tell her about Fresno) and also in San Francisco "at some big museum that sits on a hill and looks like a Greek building." "It has to be The Palace of The Legion of Honor. " I described the building to her with Rodin's "The Thinker" perched at the entrance. "That's the place." She is part of the Artists concert series that The Legion offers. And, as a museum member I will get advanced notice of her concert dates. I said good night to them both and did more graveling about her talent. I am looking forward to see her perform again.

I then spent some time at the bar with Daniel Helfrich who is the lounge pianist at the hotel. By that time it was after 11:30PM and he was through with his evening gig. Very talented pianist and vocalist. He plays and sings mostly American songs (in English) because that's what the tourists like to hear. He comes from a musical family...his dad is a choral conductor. Daniel lives in Grasellenbach and I forgot to ask him where but it's somewhere near Berlin, I think (forgive me Daniel).

He plays for the Steigenberger Hotel during the Summer only. The rest of the time he performs his one man comedy act on TV and in night clubs all over Germany www.daniel-helfrich.com

The German night clubs are closed during the Summer and that's why he comes to Gstaad...to pick up some extra money during his down time. The Hotel gives him room and board plus a salary. Now that's a great way to spend a Summer. His girlfriend is a councilor for people with eating disorders. She is presently in San Francisco lecturing in clinics. We exchanged emails and said our good byes.

Bye the time I got to bed it was 3:AM.

Day five in Switzerland/the final concert

2009-07-27T23:20:00.001-07:00

The graveyard at Rougemont Church. Michael and Yvonne visit California every year as their daughter lives in the Bay Area with her boyfriend..they are avid windsurfers. Michael and Yvonne have both been to Ocean Beach to watch them windsurf and know ecactly where the condo is. We exchanged emails back at the hotel. They plan to visit SF next Spring. I will look forward to making contact with them.

Day five in Switzerland/the final concert

2009-07-27T23:05:00.001-07:00

Inside the church at Rougemont. The couple from Montreux (Michael & Yvonne Boehler) told me that the churches in Switzerland (only Catholic and Protestant) are all government supported. The citizens pay taxes to the Swiss Government and, in turn, the government supports the churches. I quite forgot about that part of my World History classes.

What a concept...no separation of Church and State! Maybe the US should try it..I don't think it would be a problem....NOT!

If you do not want to belong to the Church, you can reduce your taxes by petitioning the Government. But, however, as Michael said, when you die it is difficult to find a cemetray that will take you as they are all owned by the Swiss Gov. So it's best, he says, to pay the church tax and not worry anything as the Gov will pay for all your funeral and burial espenses.

Day five in Switzerland/the final concert

2009-07-27T15:22:00.001-07:00

Another view of Rougemont Church. The concert was by Patricia Kopatchinskaja, Violine, and Mihaela Ursuleasa, Piano. I knew that I would like them when they first took the stage...no shoes...they were bare foot! They are truly entertainers in the total sense of the word...they are performers extraordinaire...at times bordering insanity...the energy that they brought to the church I'm sure was the reason for the thunder and lightening storm which started at the onset of their playing and continues even now but less intense. They both are Romanian from Gypsie heritage...in fact Patricia's mother is a Gypsie violinist and her father plays the Gypsie cymbals...not quite sure what that is. But you can see how the fiery gene in their blood has enhansed their performance...that together with their musical ability make for a first rate show.

Day five in Switzerland/the final concert

2009-07-27T13:41:00.000-07:00

My final concert was at the Rougemont Church. Rougemont is about 10 minutes from the Steigenberger Hotel in the French speaking part of Switzerland. You literally pass a marker to the side of the road that tells you this. A couple that I met (they rode their bikes that morning from Montreux..on the shores of Lake Geneva... to Gstaad)were also in the hotel shuttle and told me much about the area.

At this mement, we are having a big thunder and lightening storm and the computer keeps going off internet. I am taking a break to go have a night cap with the couple from Montreux and hopefully I can get back on with no problem and finish telling all about the performance...quite crazy.

Day five in Switzerland/my last day in Gstaad

2009-07-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

I spent about 2 hours on the Promenade. Had a double espresso at the outside tables of the Artist's Cafe, people watched as the tennis fans headed to the Swiss Open, and did some shopping at Bach & Sign. This is my last picture of the Promenade before I head back to the hotel, and begin the packing process.

It is now 5PM and we just had a small alpine rain shower. The sun is out now and it looks like another perfect evening for my final concert.

Day five in Switzerland

2009-07-27T04:47:00.000-07:00

Keeping a low profile this morning, I am. Had a late breakfast (9:30) but there will be no long walks today. I think it's time for some serious shopping at the Promenade in Gstaad. The weather this morning is the same as yesterday....absolutely perfect. In the shade it is probably 72f but in the sun it is at least 80 to 85.

This picture is looking out from the Hotel front. That's another hotel in the background.

Day four in Switzerland/fourth concert

2009-07-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

The pipes in the church at Zweisimenn.

Day four in Switzerland/fourth concert

2009-07-26T14:33:00.000-07:00

Inside the church at Zweisimmen.

Day four in Switzerland/fourth concert

2009-07-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

More floral grave plots in Zweisimmen.

Day four in Switzerland/fourth concert

2009-07-26T14:28:00.000-07:00

Just one of the many floral grave plots at the Zwiesimmen Church.

Day four in Switzerland/fourth concert

2009-07-26T13:59:00.000-07:00

My fourth concert was in Zweisimmen about 20 minutes over the hill from the hotel. Sort of NW as if you were heading back to Zurich. This church was built in 1898 and has recently been restored. It is known for its beautiful grave yards...all made to look like flower gardens...quite appropriate. Pictures to come later.

As I mentioned earlier, this is the same group that I had heard in a noon concert at Wispile Peak. And, they certainly did not disappoint me (you can log on to http://www.menuhinfestivalgstaad.ch/ to see the program. Just a note on Bartok's Divertimento For Strings (the fouth piece played); in August of 1939 Menuhin invited Bartok to Switzerland and commissioned him to write a concerto for strings. As the story goes, Bartok composed this great work right here just above the Saanen Chapel while in swim trunks and reclining next to Menuhin's swimming pool. 70 years later and they are bringing it back to where it was born. I felt very priviledged to be here on this historic occasion.

Day four in Switzerland/get ye to the mountain

2009-07-26T06:47:00.000-07:00

View of Gstaad from the gondolo while riding back down Wispile peak.

Day four in Switzerland/get ye to the mountain

2009-07-26T06:43:00.000-07:00

Lots of hiking trails at the top of Wispile Peak which is 1911 m above sea level.