tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87093244516088681772024-03-12T18:26:51.699-06:00Sierra PointLife continues to evolve as I discover more about me and my new home state of Colorado. I am wandering and trying to chronicle the moments....Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-44651061086426295612010-08-17T00:22:00.000-06:002010-08-17T00:22:42.279-06:00oh wow...I've been thinking- I've next to abandoned this blog this summer... then I just looked at it and realized the summer is almost over and I haven't posted since spring. I'm adjusting to a new type of life that I've never really experienced. I go to the same office every day and I haven't gotten on a plane in months. I have a garden... a real honest to goodness garden that I can pull tomatoes and basil and squash out of the garden to make dinner. I have traded my digital life for a life of experiences. I have gone on hikes without a single camera or cell phone to record the trip... just moments of memories.<br />
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I'm trying to figure out how to reconnect with the friends I finally found when I moved here. Though it's a bit hard to connect and at times I feel abandoned I also realize I just have more time to notice the alone time now that I'm not bouncing around the country from plane to hotel to the next random location. I'm starting to settle in and cook dinner and my daily conversation starts with what I pull from the garden to eat instead of what random restaurant I found in what random town. I go to farmer's markets on the weekend and traipse through the mountains. I've even taken to solo hiking on the days where those in my life are too busy to head out. The experience of hiking for hours and hours through the wilderness on my own (with safety contingencies in place) and seeing only 5 people in over 4 hours was refreshing. So between the becoming domesticated/nesting and adjusting to a new job it's been a crazy summer. The other night I was told I looked content- and if that means that my facebook is updated less, or my blog gets regularly ignored, or my emails have gotten more intermittent and shorter... well I guess for now I'll take that tradeoff as I figure out how to be digitally engaged and still revel in the times to simply experience.Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-66568282031670709612010-04-25T00:00:00.000-06:002010-04-25T00:21:21.553-06:00Another Change...So It's another change in life and yet again if this blog continues it will morph with me... I am changing from the traveling life I have known for around 8 years to working in the same office most days and traveling within the state that just happens to be a relatively new state to me- Colorado.<br /><br />I have taken on another new job, made a new life, and in reality I'm going to be much more tied to the Rockies than the Sierras. But in the midst of all this change I have had the opportunity to question (yet again)... who am I? what motivates me? and when it comes down to it... what is most important to me?<br /><br />In the midst of moving through the last year plus where I spent about half my time in Colorado and half the time wandering around the country... well I have been adamant that I try harder to make friends, create contacts, and truly TRY to make a home. And I think that I really have managed to make this place a home. I have friends to call upon to go hiking, I have started to learn cooking- without a recipe, and I have someone to love me at the end of the day.<br /><br />I planted an urban garden (with help). I actually planted a garden that requires daily watering to survive. Just the thought of that still blows my mind. Want to know something crazier? The seeds have sprouted. I have a garden with beets, chard, broccoli, brussel sprouts, carrots and lettuce that are all popping up through the soil in mostly organized rows.<br /><br />So my life has changed to something more settled and a job that I am hoping is core to who I am. I am eager for this next phase and as I move forward I will see if I revitalize this blog as I settle into sharing my experiences in a more consistent manner. Regardless this is yet another adventure that I am eager to start and fascinated in where I will end up.Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-67089744689962809362010-02-16T21:41:00.000-07:002010-02-16T23:18:27.658-07:00Long delay- travel summarySo it's been awhile... a month or so and a million memories in between and a couple thousand of air miles too... So I would like to mention that in my Buffalo WY adventures I did manage (with a guide and 4WD) to find some petrified trees. The first attempt did not go so well (as I alluded to in my way earlier post).<br /><br />So here's a true Wyoming experience... I headed out after class to see if I could find the petrified trees (the first time) in my rented not quite 4WD little crossover. The first turn off (following the little sign to public land) ended up being state land and not the BLM land I was looking for. But as a bonus I got to see a dead deer in the parking lot mostly deconstructed but just a few remnants left. Ah- respect for public land is always lovely. Then I headed down the road a bit more to the correct turnoff. So I turned off the "highway" taking a left and heading down the gravel road with snow (and tire tracks in the snow). Note to self... just because there are tire tracks doesn't mean your vehicle will be happy. So I was heading in the tracks when I realized the vehicle was sinking in the snow a bit... and it was deeper than anticipated. So... being that I was by myself, an hour from anywhere, and and so I decided a retreat was in order. As I backed down the road attempting to stick to my tracks apparently a moment of hesitation or blinking or something and suddenly oops- I'm off the road and in the snow... um yeah like a couple feet of snow instead of the few inches it looked like. So I check- jacket, hat, gloves, food, water, cell phone- yup all the essentials. <br /><br />So I looked- could I drive out- nope. Stuck. Anyone know I'm here- well I told the outdoor rec planner but she won't notice till tomorrow. Could I call a tow truck- yeah but how long will it take? The next best thing... walk to the farm and act like a girl. Yes, I have trained in Southern California on how to be a total girl when you do not want to do heavy work like change a tire (I can... I just don't always want to). So I went to the farm, met the dog, met the guy who lives there and did my best SoCal girl... I am sooooo sorry to put you out is there anyway you can help me get my car out of the snow? I'm from SoCal and messed up driving in the snow <bat eyes>. And like most macho men who meet a silly girl- he was happy to help. <br /><br />So we rode over to the rental in his (of course) diesel 4wd american truck. It ended up requiring digging a bit of snow out from the rear of the rig, wrapping a chain from truck to rental axle, and him driving the truck forward while I drove the rental in reverse onto the road. Then I drove the american manual truck down to the road while he backed the rental down to the road and out of all the snow. By the way I can totally still drive a manual truck in 4wd down a road forward. I think the thing that put it over the top for me was the shotgun (for hunting) sitting in the middle of the truck bench seat during this whole escapade. So less than 30 minutes from stuck to heading back down the road to get dinner. Needless to say this was not a story mentioned to the students the next day. <br /><br />But I did mention later to the rec planner that the road was a bit impassible and she expressed disbelief. Sooooo Friday morning- take 2! We took a gov rig (she wanted to check on the restrooms and facilities) so it was an american 4WD truck and we headed out to the site again. Apparently I was only a half a mile away and could have just parked the car and walked up to the petrified trees. <sigh> So off again we went and as we approached the snowy area she noted- jeepers I've never seen the road like this before and let's just say the truck didn't make it quite as far as I did and when we were backing out of the snow I felt redeemed. Now with a 4wd truck you can make it out with just a bit of sliding back and forth. So we hiked up seeing as it was a lovely morning and we'd driven all the way out to the site. <br /><br />So it was a lovely hike- a fascinating natural spectacle to see trees that were turned into rock. I had my camera and got to take some pictures as the sun rose into the sky with wide open hills, snow sparkling, and sun glinting on the grasslands. So the mission was met and the trees were found and all in all the adventure ended well so I hurried my little self off and went back to Sheridan to hop on the little prop plane and head home to Denver to unpack to pack to unpack to pack.<br /><br />After Buffalo I ventured home to SoCal with a new tag-along who got to meet some family and friends in a short vacation trip. It was good to take the person who I've gotten to know his life here and show him where I came from. It was good to be back in the land of palm trees, navy ships, beaches, and farmer's markets for 4 days. Hey did you know there are red walnuts- they really do taste the same but man the color is amazing. Oh and no one else can replace the wonders of a California dried apricot and no one else does it quite as well. <br /><br />After San Diego it was a brief work day and then up to Copper Mountain for a detached weekend with a bit of snow shoeing, a bit of cupcake celebration with a good friend (who turned 7), puzzles lazing through the afternoon, and chilling in the jacuzzi. <br /><br />A brief time in the office and then off to Summerlin (a suburb of Las Vegas). A week of work, some hiking, some moments just trying to be and all in all spending a couple of weeks ducking, covering, and disengaging with the greater internet and focusing on the minimal of facebook. This past weekend was a day trip to Echo Lake and lots and lots of resting means I'm now re-engaging :-) It's a cyclical thing and I'm happy to be back. Not much work travel scheduled right now but I'll learn more tomorrow.<br /><br />Take care all and watch out for the depth of the snow :-)Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-44244972751880977132010-01-15T23:08:00.001-07:002010-01-15T23:08:58.000-07:00The Occidental Hotel in Buffalo WYI am sitting amidst the greatest blessing tonight- I am in an honest<br />to goodness small town America watching a bluegrass gathering<br />strumming out songs with members varried- a gal with slow food<br />stickers on her guitar case, an old man on the fiddle, a teenage boy<br />on a guitar, ranchers and wilderness advocates. There is a darling old<br />couple dancing- he is bent from age but they shuffle in rhytm near the<br />pool table.<br /><br />Hey forget just watching- I danced with the gentleman. Note he must be<br />80 or 90 but I do remember my 2 step decently. While I am writing to<br />observe life I also take a moment or 25 to simply revel in<br />experiencing this wonderous experience surrounded by such vibrant life<br />(and animal heads mounted on the wall). From the tentative seeming<br />first time singer to the people who seem to melt into the surroundings<br />with ease. It's like watching a river flow down through the rocks-<br />moving, alive, and seeming a million parts while all one organic<br />being.<br /><br />So later I will update you on the crazy happenings of the last couple<br />of nights including snow, a shotgun, a truck, snow, and an attempt to<br />see a petrified tree... but tonight started with watching a film<br />festival with some of the field office folks for a local wilderness<br />society... Big powder telemarking and environmental messages...<br /><br />Damn I needed this night and the fire queen was right- this town<br />delivers and is very worth truly experiencing...Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-61896928051625122172010-01-11T18:43:00.000-07:002010-01-11T19:33:29.250-07:00Wyoming...So when the major airlines do not fly into an airport it's a hint that I'm in for a different sort of travel. First off- Great Lakes Airline does not appear to go to many places in the Great Lakes but they sure do travel to random places in Wyoming. <br /><br />Today I boarded a plane with propellers. First note... when flying Great Lakes Airlines you can only have one carry-on. Second note... there is only seat on either side of the aisle which is a bad sign if you like big planes. It was a smooth flight though on the noisy nausea inducing side. We landed in Sheridan Wyoming after a bit. The landing was fine though a bit bouncier than I'm used to.<br /><br />So Sheridan is officially the smallest airport I've ever been to. Now I know I usually travel to major cities but I have flown into airports with 2 or 4 gates. Nope... this one has only one gate. So when you walk through the doors from the tarmac you are already on the unsecure side. I went to go get my rental car and there were 2 counters with one gal each. When she was giving directions to get the car the instructions startled me... So when you walk outside they are parked there. I mean the rental cars are where people pick-up/drop-off. I am so used to TSA shooing people away from any terminals that I couldn't fathom what I'm being told. Then when I was asking for directions to the freeway I simply said... oh I can just follow the signs to the freeway. She said- oh there are no signs just follow this street...<br /><br />Then as I was leaving the airport and heading through to get to the town it was illuminated how different of a world I was in... I had to stop for a flock of wild turkeys to cross the road. They cruised without worry or bother or hurry plunking across the road. The weather outside was nice in the 40s but there is still a good deal of snow on the roads.<br /><br />I drove a half hour south to Buffalo WY where I will be spending this week. The town seems cool with a neat little historic downtown that I will have to investigate one night this week. The office and people seem nice. The restaurants are limited and seem to be centered on steak houses or fast food. I think I'll try the steakhouse tomorrow tonight I just need to find something to munch on and tomorrow will be another day to explore the world and possibly the local forest that this darling town of 3,900 people at 4,600 ft elevation are nestled up against as a gateway towards Yellowstone should be.Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-18897201055063130372009-12-28T23:33:00.000-07:002009-12-28T23:40:42.534-07:00Violations of personal space...What is it about today (Sunday) that has gotten perfect strangers to feel that touching my head is a totally acceptable practice? OK to be fair I at least know the second time this happened it was someone mistaking me for someone else...<br /><br />So I was sitting in the airport at Reagen (DC area) watching the Broncos play (I do cheer for them as a team as long as they are not directly playing the Chargers). And someone pats me on the top of the head. As I moved myself up in the seat (oops- caught slouching) I started to turn myself around for some bizarre reason expecting to hear a parent telling me to sit up. I heard a female voice apologizing so I said- no worries and didn't even bother completing the turn around- meh. Life goes on.<br /><br />So a few hours later and I am in the plane sitting next to the sweet family I was on the same plane with flying to DC. That's besides the point but an interesting coincidence. <br /><br />So as I'm reading my magazine, listening to XM on United, and generally zoning out someone reaches over and does that scalp rub/scratch/play with hair move known throughout the couples circles as a way to get your honey to pay attention and not startle them. So I turn my head around and up I'm sure with a total quizzical look since there are only a select few people I'd ever expect to inititate that type of touch with me and as far as I can recall none are on the plane.<br /><br />The poor man who thought he was touching his wife's hair was startled and seriously apologetic. I said no problems and no worries. Turns out we both have dark brown hair and she's sitting directly in front of me. But it was a move that affected me- I wanted it to be my honey when I turned around. I wanted it to be someone who knew me. I wanted that touch to be something besides the mistake I knew it was. <br /><br />I am someone who spends 90%+ of my time in hotels by myself. I have become totally comfortable driving 4-6 hours in country never before seen in daylight by myself and only having a destination and a rough idea of the path. I know on days I want to have conversation I eat at the bar and on days I want quiet I sit at a table... either way I bring reading to dinner every night I travel. I stop to take pictures and note things to pass along to coworkers, family, friends, and post in blogs. I use the "Frontier" gate to terminal A just to look at the art and walk a bit farther in the Denver airport. I know where to get the Jamba juice, Starbucks (only 1 in DIA), best bagel, and microbrew beers in DIA (which is the Denver International Airport). <br /><br />I have not traveled with anyone besides family (Mom and brother) in a flying situation for over 5 years. In the past 5 years I have flown to more places than my previous lifetime accumulated. <br /><br />So it startles this lone wolf traveler that I do want it to be someone I know when I turn around. I am surprised that I do get lonely when I travel. I try and make this adventurous life full of moments to enjoy and learn something about every destination. I have my good night call and live an amazingly blessed life- and even then I guess sometimes I want another half- a person to sit besides me on a flight. <br /><br />So with all that duly noted and observed I think I'm going to try and get the little guy across the aisle to smile at me again. He's a very well behaved 18 month old with a great smile :-)Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-41730691261885702042009-12-28T23:29:00.000-07:002009-12-28T23:32:24.342-07:00post script aka P.S.*Note*<br /><br />I would just like to state for the record that the Holiday Magic exhibit is very worth a wait. We spent 30 minutes or so waiting in line at the Botanical Gardens... Let me amend that- at least 1-2 members of the party at all time stood in line and the rest of the time adults were trying to keep the two little boys entertained, moving, and happy. <br /><br />Then we headed into the exhibit of amazing little model structures made from natural sources such as sticks, pine cones, leaves, etc. The houses/ships/furniture were all built from these plant components. Then the real reason we were there- the model trains running through these little tableaus. The boys enjoyed the trains almost as much as their dad :-)<br /><br />The whole exhibit was enjoyed by all and I could have spent over an hour just staring at all the details. I think I absorbed about 10% of the artistry. So for future reference if you are in the DC area during the holiday season (Nov to mid Jan) make it a point to travel over and see the Holiday Magic display... it is worth it even if there is a wait.Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-2794819404907291592009-12-26T21:36:00.000-07:002009-12-26T22:15:18.721-07:00Slight sightseeing...When in Washington DC it's always good to get out to see a few of the sights (even if for an hour). So this week was really baby centric seeing as my nephews are still being counted in the months these days...<br /><br />BUT we did knock out a couple of museums. One of the most awesome things about DC is the fact that so many of the museums are free. Which makes it great for strollering though since you feel no obligation to stay and get your money's worth. <br /><br />This week there was the National Building Museum and the Smithsonian American Indian Museum. <br /><br />The National Building Museum was great in that it has an amazingly large space in the building- lovely for children to stretch their legs. There is also a great playroom (shoes must stay on, adults accompany children, no food... the norm). The playroom has all sorts of blocks, books, toys, and even a story corner. It's a great place from at least 1-8ish. <br /><br />The Smithsonian American Indian Museum is architecturally fascinating building. There are no right angles in the walls of the building. Now in the interior with things such as elevators there are right angles but they are few and I think try and be far between. The exhibits are very well done and are quite artistic from the display of the arrowheads to peace symbols or guns. I was particularly interested in a necklace that my sister and mom pointed out... it was made of grizzly bear claws. It was a very unique piece that was interesting both from the amazing number and trying to imagine how many grizzly bears it was composed from as well as the aesthetics (it did look in it's own way- beautiful). We didn't have a significant amount of time to wander but we did cover most of the 4h floor as well as some of the 3rd. One can get an interesting amount of information in an hour or spend multiple days delving into each drawer with multiple artifacts and screens and screens of information.<br /><br />On another note- an intended excursion was to see the Botanical gardens with some train display but the drizzle and the long line convinced us babies would not be excited about the waiting. But the display is on till January 10th so maybe the boys will still be able to view it. <br /><br />Also we drove by the Einstein memorial a couple of times this week- one of my favorite memorial sculptures in all of DC and well worth the scavenger hunt to find it. <br /><br />Well tomorrow I am home again to Denver and have a couple weeks for local adventures before the next random location.... Buffalo, WY! Stay tuned ;-)Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-7689455611564397612009-12-22T22:28:00.000-07:002009-12-22T23:00:26.997-07:00Belated NV wrapup... and in DCSo last I posted I was writing from Tonopah NV- then my friend joined me on the road and my extreme attachment to all things digital was paused. Instead of focusing on my digital life we headed out for beers and margaritas in the evening and talked about our jobs and real lives. Upon arriving home I was spinning in a flurry of activities until right about now... which means I must be on the road :-)<br /><br />So back where I was.... in Tonopah with the temps at 7 degrees and snow on the ground. After wrapping up that real job thing of teaching we headed down to Beatty. We dropped off my rental car and headed out to see Death Valley National Park. It's the kind of place I've always seen signs for and wanted to at least see it. <br /><br />So two non-desert type people head out to the National Park known for it's extreme desert qualities. I have to say it was a day with 55 degree temps- so cold but not horrid compared to our previous time. We were driving in my friend's truck which made for off road capabilities or at least dirt road driving. I must say for a National Park it was one of the least signed National Parks I've ever seen... there were interpretation signs but not as much road/directions. <br /><br />I once again justified my purchase of the Federal Lands Pass last year since it was a $20 entrance fee park. I obtained my typical lapel pin and passport stamp (oh yes, I am THAT National Park geek). We even got out and walked to an arch. It was not a typical hike in that it felt as if we were treading rocks- feet sinking into the shale- at every step. <br /><br />I also visited the lowest point in the US... and a few years ago I visited the highest point in the lower 48 at Mt Whitney. These two points are from what I can tell less than 100-200 miles apart. Well I could just google it now but I'm being lazy so as my dad used to tell me... "You look it up" and you can get back to me on that. The lowest point is in an Alakali flat. If you stand at the little sign in the Alkali flat the soil is all crusted and cracked and I know there is a technical term for that in my soil science book sitting in the basement but I'll go with it was just interesting to soak in. It was an odd experience to turn around and look up at the mountain of rock jutting up into the sky across from the parking lot and see a sign up there- "Sea Level" 258 feet above me. Now I lived near/at sea level most of my life so the idea of being below that was just... strange.<br /><br />Death Valley to me was a completion of understanding East side topography (by this I mean the east side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains). It was a place I could not picture and wondered about. Now the sky was cloudy and grey so I can't say that it was overwhelmingly beautiful or anything but I do realize how it could appear with a blue sky above or wildflowers blanketing areas. When we were there it was desolate, unsettling, fascinating, and extremely worth it. I needed to see and comprehend it. I may go back again and hopefully visit the north end of the park with the dunes and such. But I do have to admit it's not on my top 20 list... but I'm also not too much of a desert person in general.<br /><br />Once we were done at Death Valley we had dinner in Beatty and tried a few local bars- with the smoking in bars it was not our particular scene. Next day brought a totally rainy version of Vegas so hikes were cancelled, dog was stashed in a room, and the strip was explored. Please note for all people missing the Hawaii ABC store- there is one on the Las Vegas strip. <br /><br />At home life proceeded to be crazy and now for the holidays I am in DC with family. Not sure if I'll head out to any sights or make it to some relatives to visit (seriously the snow here is impacting travel still). But if I do see anything new, unusual, or simply am in a writing mood I'll update you... till then :-)Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-16706439695312246682009-12-09T23:16:00.000-07:002009-12-09T23:34:04.544-07:00Tiny TonopahSo I will admit I have had very limited time/energy to explore the town of Tonopah. So far I have spent lots of time at the office and eaten out a couple of times- but unlike my normal travels I have taken to eating in a bit since I have a microwave and fridge here. I think it's the biting cold air... the air is the type that by the time I got from the rental car to the hotel lobby my nose already hurt. I have taken the opportunity to look outside a few times at the amazingly blue sky, the mountains dusted with a dry squeaky snow, and the nice little small town. <br /><br />The area has mining hints to the town of Tonopah. I haven't had time to explore the little shops (and unfortunately probably won't). But the people are amazing in this town. I've been welcomed with hospitality and tried to learn to adjust to the slow pace outside of the city. I realize my impatience level at little things and my expectations of efficiency that do not match up with the typical pace in a place where people go to take care of their horses at lunchtime (the water is freezing). <br /><br />So while I haven't had the opportunity to explore as much as I would like to but I think it's a lovely place to stay a bit.Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-63781983156577661052009-12-08T00:02:00.001-07:002009-12-08T01:03:37.445-07:00snowy southern NEVADA...oh wow... today encapsulates the word Monday. I must say that the little things weren't much as I flew into Las Vegas from Denver. The guy got me safely from home to DIA without any incident... but you know the airport is getting ready for a bad morning when you see at least 3-5 tow trucks staging on Pena Blvd. <br /><br />I was very excited to venture over to my favorite burger In-N-Out... for all those not from the true western states (CA, NV, UT)it is a burger joint with a cult following and "secret" menu. But as a total bonus today the random In-N-Out that I choose happened to be next door to the corporate offices and included a store. <br /><br />Then I headed out from the urban center out to rural Nevada of Tonopah. Now this is the first time I've explored the area from Las Vegas up to the Highway 50 corridor. Now there really is not a significant amount of infrastructure as you head north on 95. There was a traffic jam for a bit near Indian Wells (overturned SUV) but it cleared out quickly for our northbound side (luckily). <br /><br />There is something about the vast emptiness of the wide open desert that I find soothing though I have heard some feel it is unnerving (I can empathize but not relate on that one). So I am relatively used to the wide open desert and have driven across California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah at times by myself and at times with a companion. I've driven through most of the weather I've encountered when I've been in more populated areas so today brought a bit of tension as I had the opportunity to drive through the open unpopulated desert with rain, hail, AND snow! At times visibility dropped down to a half mile or so. <br /><br />The sights were stunning as for most of the time the tops of the mountains were shrouded in clouds and where the clouds met the ground was a dusting of white on the dark mountains. As I rose higher in elevation the snow became thicker and dusted the Joshua trees. Joshua trees always remind me of Dr. Seuss books and to see dark shadows of Joshua trees framed against graying mountains with a dusting of white on the ground... it was like a surreal painting suspended between serenity and melancholy (not in a bad way but in the kind of way where you can sit next to your grief and feel it but not have it be overwhelming). Then the clouds started lifting a bit off in the distance and the sunbeams came down from the clouds and caressed the earth lifting the mood of the landscape. <br /><br />So after a bit I made it through the weather and into the little towns. I stopped at a neat little spot in Beatty to stretch my legs a moment and pick up some nuts- pistachios and raw pine nuts. Now I'm not exactly sure what I'm going to do with the raw pine nuts but I just couldn't resist ;-) The prettiest town I drove through was Goldfield- the architecture was old west but unfortunately as I drove through quickly a number appeared to be vacant buildings. I made it to Tonopah as night descended so I haven't seen the town in daylight yet. <br /><br />So far my impression has been wonderfully nice people, cold cold air, a few inches of snow (which at around 6030' elevation is not that out of the box), and wanting to just rest. So I shall explore and observe more tomorrow.<br /><br />Till then... adios from the snowy desertVictoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-25411292124377460612009-12-04T00:16:00.000-07:002009-12-04T00:45:13.791-07:00Things of home...I really think that the way to stay sane when on the road is to have at least one night where it's almost a normal night. So last night I luckily had the opportunity to enjoy dinner with a friend and his kiddo. It's great to catch up and have a normal night of pizza, beer, and socializing. It reboots the week to keep on teaching. <br /><br />After my class was over tonight I took time to relax and visit my favorite restaurant in Boise... The Bungalow on 13th. It's a place where the food is simple and delicious. Tonight was comfort food... mac n cheese with bacon and chicken- ok I did have a salad to try and balance it out. For anyone traveling through I highly recommend it- plus the house wine hasn't disappointed yet. After dawdling over dinner for a couple of hours I finally retired back to the hotel to go through the routine once again... packing packing packing...Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-22732106689129508562009-12-01T20:27:00.000-07:002009-12-01T21:24:11.733-07:00Basque in Boise...After teaching all day I really didn't want to head out. I was melting onto the hotel bed... trying to get up the energy to move and explore a little bit more of Boise. Thanks to a recommendation from a friend of a friend I discovered something I never quite registered... there is a Basque history in Boise.<br /><br />When I think Basque I think Alturas, CA or Reno, NV (which I admit may not be in other's thoughts but hey it reminds me of the the Basque fire guys). I don't know how in my days of walking downtown Boise the Basque connection just eluded me. But tonight it was dinner at Bar Gerinka. I had the lamb grinder and the house special red wine. For a fussy meat eater I was thrilled with the sandwich. The bread was fresh, the meat was lean and the veggies were grilled just right. The fries accompanying the meal were so-so but I can forgive that because I had the chocolate pudding. Wow. Yup, red wine and house made chocolate pudding won the night. <br /><br />It was the kind of dinner where I just wanted to keep ordering things so I could enjoy reading my paper and chilling out. I definitely recommend Bar Gerinka for those exploring Boise.<br /><br />I do have to say in the clean cut town of Boise it was relieving to find a place with scruffy beards which reminded me of my wilderness/river ranger friends. It was a nice break from my normal assessment of Boise which is a lovely outdoor town made for married couples with darling little children. Of course as I walked back to the hotel there was some sort of event going on and there were a plethora of little ones traipsing all over the sidewalks. It was a nice evening to explore a little and I look forward to tomorrow night :-)Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-88731058170895625262009-11-30T19:59:00.000-07:002009-12-01T00:53:11.996-07:00Boise... a startWandering through the streets to find dinner... okay not really wandering since it was a very directed walk to a yummy dinner and a very needed pint. I indulged in Tablerock's Winter Cheer (reminded me of an old fave... Pyramid Brewery's Snow Cap). It was an enjoyable time with Monday Night football playing and finishing up the Sunday NY Times.<br /><br />I find that I am more willing to walk down city streets than pass by natural geographic features. I got my reservation in my typical Marriott chain hotel and I realized while I was reluctant to cross over a river at night or wander down a greenbelt surrounded by tress... well I am perfectly at home walking down a busy street with cars whizzing by. The urbanite in me appreciates these places where I can stay in a comfy place and still access the amenities by an easy stroll.<br /><br />Tomorrow is a bit of adventuring as I have received a few random recommendations from a a friend of a friend and I look forward to new places to love in this nice town. Stay tuned...Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-78624336049864044372009-11-13T23:34:00.000-07:002009-11-16T21:40:44.241-07:00Local TravelsI've been at home for a couple of weeks now... I haven't been traveling farther than a 25 mile radius from Denver and I'm loving it. I have another week here prior to starting the travel life again for a couple of months.<br /><br />But this post is about local travels- most have been in the Boulder area. So a couple weeks ago when I got home I arranged to go hiking with a friend and my guy. I was not in the mood for research so I just started driving. We randomly ended up at the National Atmospheric Research Center which just happens to be a trailhead- who knew? We stared at a few very well labeled trail maps and I made the command decision to head up to Mallory Cave. It seemed like a bit of topography and the ability to do a bit more hiking if we wanted. <br /><br />The Mallory Cave hike is a lovely hike up Dinosaur Mountain past a number of rock climbing spots (including a couple of rock climbers up there). The trail is a bit steep but in a good way. As we ascended up we passed by a few spots of snow in the shady areas and a couple of muddy spots though the trail overall was dry. At the top of the hike was a little placard saying Mallory Cave with an arrow going up the rock. Um... the scrambling looked OK to me but my cohorts looked at me like I was crazy. Maybe it was the dad teaching his 2 girls to rapel from the top of the area I wanted to scramble. Needless to say I was alone as I headed up the rock though I had 2 very nice observers to take pictures of me. I didn't find the cave since the last bit was out of sight of my backup. Plus I was starting to get worn out so I headed down the rock while the going was good. After lunch we headed down- the sights are great looking out over the Boulder area. Next time I'll bring another crazy person and make it all the way to the cave.<br /><br />This past week I ended up venturing out to Boulder again with a few friends for a different hike. We hiked Mt. Salinas which as one of our troupe noted... well is a bit on the steep side ;-) It's approximately 1500 feet elevation gain over a couple of miles up and over rocks and water bars. There were a number of runners on the trail but once again the trail afforded lovely views of the Boulder area (and the haze enclosing Denver that day). But since this was a peak hike instead of just up the front of the iron mountains there were some views heading out west into the mountains. This trail was much busier than the Mallory Caves trail but everyone and all their dogs were polite and did the give and take of moving around on the trail. <br /><br />After the hike we headed down to Boulder for an excellent lunch at the West End Tavern- pretty much all the food was great. My personal fave was snacking on the mac 'n cheese. My sandwich was great- it's always iffy to order fish when so far inland especially a coastal fish like mahi mahi but it was awesome and the fries were amazingly perfectly salty without being too greasy. <br /><br />So next time you need a short jaunt from town I highly recommend a Boulder excursion with maybe a little scrambling up boulders thrown in...Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-5535791086163122342009-10-29T23:49:00.000-06:002009-10-30T00:24:37.071-06:00Preparing for the road again...This morning I discovered a wonderful Large cup of coffee for the grand total of $1... wow. Other than the Einstein's "refills" I can't remember the last time I've paid that little for a large coffee. <br /><br />I wandered the town a bit before a nice dinner on Main St. The walk was nice and I made it to the top of a hill where I could see for miles. I did notice a number of more Victorian style houses instead of the smaller post-war or bungalow types. It is interesting how the spatial distribution of development might have a bit of a pattern... I would be interested to see what would happen if you took 30 cities... 10 each of 3 varying sizes and see if there is a pattern for development based on age of the buildings. <br /><br />Well this will be a short post for I need to plan my drive for tomorrow... from Alturas to Reno to Denver... I am looking forward to my burger fix at In-N-Out and being home :-)Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-76126746207394898742009-10-28T22:46:00.000-06:002009-10-28T23:08:47.555-06:00A small town...So what defines a small town? It's walking down the street and realizing that people store their cut firewood in the alley accessible to all- oh and tools are stored outside. It's the fact that random people wave at you as you walk down the street. Heck I went into a post office and there was a bell to ring for service... no one to watch over the counter because they were busy out back. And the Post Office really is on Main Street. It's the small coffee shop that accepts only cash (though I must say there are plenty of places like that in Point Loma where I grew up). <br /><br />It is a different reality in a small town. People notice as you walk down the street and talk to you exuding a vibe I am not accustomed to. I have to say I know I'm used to moving faster and sometimes my impatience slips through. There is not a single chain restaurant in town that I've found. The railroad tracks go through the center of town and the BPOE lodge was built in the late 1800s and stands just as firm built in rock.<br /><br />It's a different place, pace, world and I am privileged to get to experience it for a week....Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-6310553877580351042009-10-27T21:37:00.000-06:002009-10-27T23:01:52.943-06:00Throughout the US and into my ownAs the year has evolved I have had the chance to explore some random places... places that 160 characters can not adequately describe as I update my facebook status. So I am attempting to revive the blog as a travel blog instead of a chronicle of establishing a life in a new state. Now this isn't the type of thing that is going to necessarily give you the hot spots to explore on vacation but mostly the unexpected places and things to love about this lovely country I am blessed to live in and work for...<div><br /></div><div>I am currently in Alturas California which is a small town in North Eastern California- closer to Oregon and Nevada than any major city in California. I used to come up here for work occasionally and I do enjoy visiting. It's the kind of city that you need to remember to bring cash to buy a cup of coffee and a homemade english muffin. </div><div><br /></div><div>This evening I went for a walk around town- it's the kind of place where within 15 minutes I walked to the edge of town and checked out some cattle. Then it was a walk through the neighborhood passing by the Catholic church built in 1883 and the little houses. The deer were wandering through the town eating on the lawns. The quail scurried through the streets fluttering around every corner. It's a darling place with some decent places to eat and a Rite Aid to rival most Targets. </div><div><br /></div><div>The road up to Alturas was a nice meander through Northern California starting in San Francisco to wander Union Square, chill with the kid, through Sacramento (a lovely town and where I grew up so much), a visit to the UC Davis campus and then I was on my way. On the drive up I drove through Lassen National Park- a magnificent place that gets much less press than it should. But the lack of press means it is a gem with relatively empty trails and sights to stun you into silence. I managed a quick 3 mile hike down to Bumpass Hell and back... a little gem with volcanic history and bubbling mud spewing out sulphuric smells. During the hike I had over 45 minutes on the trail without seeing a soul and I realized I have become one of those people I always envied- the single woman confidently venturing out on a trail enjoying nature... it's a good life.</div>Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-9384289690565914702009-09-17T21:57:00.000-06:002009-09-17T23:09:28.462-06:00martinis and satisfaction2 pomegranate martinis later into the evening I am realizing that I am learning to live life despite any fears. I have reached the point where I am doing the things I want to do from watching an amazing sunset to walking to a restaurant instead of driving.<div><br /></div><div>In general I tend to try and deal with issues and other people before the fun stuff and up until the recent vacation times that meant not as much fun stuff was happening. Today I managed to make time to ride my bike. Now I did a little bit of single track and not a ton of crazy stuff but the amazing thing was there were other pressing agenda items and I stopped, left, and biked for a bit. It was the one thing I wanted to do and I finally just did it. This is the summer for living life instead of waiting for it to come up to me.</div><div><br /></div><div>You know it's been awhile since I've written anything longer than a facebook post. I think with the ever connectedness the amount or quality of information being dispersed (at least from me personally) has declined. I want to be inspired to write again. I want to spend time walking and capturing the emotions of life. I want to be so wound up and excited about life that I stumble over my words when I post here and I can not sleep till I type again.</div><div><br /></div><div>But I am tired and it is time to sign off for now... take care you.</div>Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-20169729481023520942009-07-17T23:54:00.000-06:002009-07-18T00:15:14.038-06:00Who to trust?There are the moments in your life when you wonder who do you trust? Who do you trust with your innermost feelings when simply uttering a word will reduce you to tears?<div><br /></div><div>Which friend do you pick to share the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">disappointment</span> of your day or the shock of learning that people can be cruel? Who do you burden with the thoughts that you can't make exit your head without articulating them with words?</div><div><br /></div><div>In a day in which feeling <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">pursued</span> delved into simply <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">disappointment</span> that being a decent person is not enough to shelter one from accusations that can not be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">disproven</span>. But it is in those moments that you learn how true friends can come through. Through the fog of lack of function you see people sympathize, tell the truth even when the truth is not being <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">sought</span>, and take you into <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">their</span> home to feed you and build you back into the one who laughs.</div><div><br /></div><div>The friend is the one who sees past the outburst of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">angst</span> to the terrified skittish thoughts you are trying to mask... past the appearance of strength to the truth. Being <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">competent</span> and functional is not enough to protect one from false accusations. But it is enough to have people who trust you, who believe your word... even when they are not the deciding factor in the final say. The true final say is between the universe and I. As I try to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">pursue</span> "do good defeat evil" and for the greater good of the order I have found my zealous spirit flagging. I finally felt like I rediscovered the zeal for life and instead I got knocked off my trail. But I will pick myself up, I will dust myself off, I will brush the gravel out of the scrape on my shin and stand firm. </div><div><br /></div><div>I will look for God in the small things once again and say my prayers hoping that God sees my future in a similar way. For we pray not to change God but to change ourselves. </div><div><br /></div><div>And in the end it is the ones we trust to hug us at the end of the day- the ones who hand us a book from the Dali Lama at the end of the night titled "The Art of Happiness"... I will stand tall because it's the right thing to do. I will resist because by giving in we validate bullying and that's wrong if you are 5 or 45. But at the end of the day the measure of how I'm doing is not my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">OPM</span> file but the friends whose child wraps her arms around my middle upon seeing me with a grin across her face. While I look forward to enjoying my tasks and rediscovering my passion again... well in the meantime this journey has taught me what true friends are and what is truly important in life... the hikes, the amazing vistas, the books that soothe the soul, and most of all the love that pervades this life in so many ways and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">iterations</span>. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's been a hard week, I need to pack, and this is Sierra Point typing something that I could not keep contained in my head. Good night. </div>Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-33414279087610663592009-06-03T00:28:00.000-06:002009-06-03T00:40:08.836-06:00a brief noteAs you all can tell this blog is next to retired these days. Life is busy with work and travel and trying to find time to simply make a life. <div><br /></div><div>So I'll keep the blog up for I believe in the ability to become re-inspired but for the moment this blog is packed up in the closet...</div><div><br /></div><div>take care all </div>Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-58362251720134416542009-05-12T22:09:00.000-06:002009-05-12T22:24:35.962-06:00Back and processing...I'm back in Denver after a long trip through Snowbird Utah --> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Soldonta</span> AK --> Homer AK --> Seward AK --> Anchorage AK --> Fairbanks AK and now back again.<div><br /></div><div>Some of the highlights- the Norman Lowell gallery north of Homer, the Bear Valley winery in Homer (<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">raspberry</span> wine that tastes like <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">alcohol</span> soaked <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">raspberries</span>... so yummy), Moose's Tooth pizza in Anchorage, Chena Hot Springs... hot springs- need I say more, generous collegues who invited us to dinner at their house and cooked the most amazing salmon I have ever tasted, seeing Mt McKinnley, and just the overwhelming beauty of the state of Alaska.</div><div><br /></div><div>The couple of weeks on the road were packed full of a million little adventures. Wildlife sightings included bald eagles, moose, a bear, caribou, and so many birds. The mountain ranges were awe inspiring, the random lakes frozen over and then the rivers with ice blocks on the edge were facinating. </div><div><br /></div><div>All in all there were so many people to meet and things to think that I could go on for hours. But my constant running about wore me out so I've been sick and silent for a few days as I've been all worn out. Till later....</div>Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-43700733500613516852009-05-01T18:50:00.000-06:002009-05-01T18:54:49.807-06:00In Alaska...It's a mountain year- I've moved to the foot of the Rockies, been chilling at Snowbird Utah, and now I'm in Alaska about to head off on some scenic highway to who knows where... Later this summer I will go out to the Sierra Nevadas. Life is about mountains this year... suggestions for next year's theme are being accepted now...<div><br /></div><div>This will be short but I am not sure when I'll get internet again. It's been a long day and I'm going to go grab some dinner and head off driving to explore. So off I go into the wild of AK.. just me, two computers, lots of outdoor clothes, and a few books. I'll muse later :-)</div>Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-40010720678563647902009-04-29T19:09:00.000-06:002009-04-29T19:44:15.915-06:00Amidst the mountains...It's been awhile... there has been a bit of drama in the last couple of weeks. Life is upended in some ways both little and a bit more. Life is not anything torterous or horrid- just altered. <div><br /></div><div>I am back on the road again. After having a realtatively low travel life for the past 8-9 months it's back to the frequent flier life. I'm at a conference now up in the mountains and while I'm in the middle of tons of people it's wierd not to have a tether to a home. It makes it a bit lonely. As tonight was a meeting night for most- I'm taking the night off from people. </div><div> </div><div>Life is overall good and this week I remembered why I made this life change. It's good to hear people think I belong in the fed circle in the resource management world. Listening to the rumblings I have heard a cautious optimism creeping into our vernacular that I haven't seen in years. I have heard a change in tone from management in just the last few months I've been back. </div><div><br /></div><div>So there is optimism in the air which is starting to seep in a bit. So to wear off the lonley I am going to go work out staring at the snowy mountains. Life is a bit of a mixed up new normal but it seems to be sorting itself out. Tomorrow I present and I am starting to find that I can only control so much of the process and I must grant the rest back to the universe...</div><div><br /></div><div>To my friend... thinking of you during the river at the rapids point... take a breath during the eddies and know we've got your back when it hits the rough patches.</div>Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8709324451608868177.post-81328145034978317282009-04-21T23:00:00.000-06:002009-04-21T23:13:51.077-06:00Seriously?Seriously what did I do to deserve bad karma these days? Who in the universe did I offend or treat so poorly to have these moments all condensed into a couple of days- the never ending little moments that when isolated are not even minor bumps in the road but when strung together seem to inundate me at every turn.<div><br /></div><div>It's the little things- the boss breaking into a conversation with a friend I haven't seen for over 2 years to tell me- there are major problems come to my office immediately... and it's just scheduling issues we've known about for weeks and brought to management's attention at least once. It's amazing how different the reaction is when another manager brings up the same issues. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's the system going down when I'm in the middle of developing a project... it's the essay question phrased just so that I can't reuse content that I've already written and will have to start from nearly scratch... It's the letter from the moving company that they really did loose my things and for the last time they are not looking anymore....</div><div><br /></div><div>It's nothing big and nothing <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">monumental</span> but it's the little things that add up to wanting to curl up in a safe place to be told that everything is all right... so when things go <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">topsy</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">turvy</span> and the safe places are gone - well what is the reaction?</div><div><br /></div><div>Honestly I think the reaction is to run- to somewhere different to somewhere with sights you haven't seen to start working on that over stimulation of the brain in a way other than by the little trials and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">tribulations</span> of the day. It's the desire to go shopping for a new gear toy to take pictures of the new places and to focus so solely on experiencing everything around you that you replace the experiences within you for a short duration of time till things die down a bit.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have a few more days to be an adult and do all those supposed to do things before I escape to the road for 2 weeks. I might get a camera to better capture the adventures of the summer- um retail <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">therapy</span> I'm sure. Who knows what the future holds? So far <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">every time</span> I think I get a sense of it- well I get turned on my head. So what is there to do but jump into the river- feet pointed downstream- cold water rushing me along- and hope for an eddy to rest but be prepared for the rocks none the less. </div><div><br /></div><div>So universe... send some good karma my way would you? I promise I'm being a good person or at least really trying these days...</div><div><br /></div>Victoria Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14253216684973549100noreply@blogger.com0