tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25106653693747796652024-03-05T21:54:37.354-08:00WalkaboutCarlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.comBlogger101125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-71431953421026497362014-04-16T19:58:00.000-07:002014-04-16T20:07:11.597-07:00Last time for everything…?<div class="p1">
I hate to be dramatic about things…oh, who am I kidding? I'm one of the most dramatic people I know! I've been called a few things in my life, but, one of the most memorable (and apt, I think) is a romantic. I get completely wrapped up in movies and their characters. Suspension of disbelief is my specialty. In this sense, writing a blog is perfect for me. Gives me an outlet to almost make a character of myself. I can read my own 'story' if you will after I finish writing it. Sounds a little bit on the selfish side, but, it's not such a bad characteristic, is it? Anyway, I scrolled back and read my first blog post here and the title inspired me a bit. A bit cliché, but, perfect for me (cue the sappy nostalgic music score here).</div>
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Having said that, I think it's time to bring this blog to a close. That's right - it's time to put the following picture to rest.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZi0FxxzMnCr9rB9rs0ltefQ7vVcL1sHAfpV-NJv0WHFX_t98iRU4yu3heL1Swl92K2uChnr9E0BcfN9WQqCE1bGpB9Q_tQbSy4zK6-lC-HmdI-N9yMws1wPLbJ-_GNFCG4_wwBsLfivqg/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-11+at+10.34.07+PM_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZi0FxxzMnCr9rB9rs0ltefQ7vVcL1sHAfpV-NJv0WHFX_t98iRU4yu3heL1Swl92K2uChnr9E0BcfN9WQqCE1bGpB9Q_tQbSy4zK6-lC-HmdI-N9yMws1wPLbJ-_GNFCG4_wwBsLfivqg/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-11+at+10.34.07+PM_2.png" height="164" width="320" /></a></div>
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No, it's not of me. It's Ben Affleck from the final scene of "The Town." It's how I've pictured myself for the last 2 years out at sea. Stepping away from pretty much everything and acquiring some new perspective.</div>
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I won't say that the 'Walkabout' is over…not sure if it ever will be. I will say that spending the last 2 years as a musician on ships has done me a lot of good. That might just be the understatement of the year! In any case, I've decided to stop working on ships. At least, for now. Let's consider it an extended break…never say never, you know. To quote an important concept that I think I've figured out over the last 2 years, "Nothing is permanent."</div>
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To that end, I want to extend a hearty THANK YOU to all of you who have kept up with me since March 9, 2012. There are way too many people to name, but, this blog has enabled me to keep in touch with so many people while I've been 'away' and I'm very grateful for that and those relationships. Even in today's world of seemingly endless connectivity with the internet, cell phones, and what not - this blog has allowed me the opportunity to share what's been going on with me and stay in touch with people in an entirely unique way. And, people have noticed and read and commented and emailed and called and texted and face-booked and visited and on and on. It has meant very much to me and I hope that we continue to stay in touch even now as the blog goes quiet.</div>
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Plans for the future? Well, to steal a line from the TV show "Parenthood" (I told you I was a romantic! What's more over-the-top than scripted TV drama underscored by acoustic guitars?), April 13, 2014 - April 13, 2015 is going to be "the Year of Carl." I've decided that I have a few priorities in my life:</div>
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1) Playing trombone for a living.</div>
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2) Living on land.</div>
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3) Living in one place.</div>
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As such, I've made a move to Grapevine, Texas. It's in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and I intend to try and continue my professional musician career on land here. I already have a great start with the cover band, "Party Machine" with whom I'm very happy to be playing weekly. The band leader is a former student of mine from my first teaching job in Wyandotte, Michigan all the way back in 1997 (How's that for drama? You can't write this shit!). It's an excellent jumping off point. I plan to cultivate more gigs, private students, and possibly some clinician opportunities while living here. As I've learned, nothing is permanent. So, I don't harbor any illusions that this is the last place I'll ever live or the last career I'll ever have, but, it is what I'm doing right now. And that's good enough for me. </div>
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So - it's time to hang up the blog. For now anyway (nothing is permanent, remember?). I'd like to think that the last post of this blog will be viewed as I view it: from the audience witnessing a slow moving camera shot of people smiling and reading the last entry while that nostalgic motif that is a staple of all the great 80's dramas (miss you John Hughes!) slowly crescendos from the background only to fade into credits. I know, I know. It's dramatic and cheesy, but, the right people will understand.</div>
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As my wonderful friend John Garvie is fond of saying, "Thanks for listening." </div>
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Stay in touch!</div>
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P.S. For my first 2 contracts, I had put together a picture slideshow of some of the highlight pics. My iMovie is not agreeing with me right now, so, you'll have to check my facebook page for the photos and provide your own music. Need help with your background music for that or this post? Here are some suggestions:</div>
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Simple Minds: Don't You Forget About Me (The Breakfast Club)</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdqoNKCCt7A&feature=kp">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdqoNKCCt7A&feature=kp</a></div>
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Snarky Puppy: Thing of Gold (a modern one, not from a movie that I know of…and just for fun)</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZBlRkF0-to&feature=kp">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZBlRkF0-to&feature=kp</a></div>
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The Dream Academy: The Edge of Forever (Ferris Bueller's Day Off)</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuvWq4NnTVo&feature=kp">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuvWq4NnTVo&feature=kp</a></div>
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The Dream Academy: Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want (Ferris Bueller's Day Off)</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhdk_44Gmew">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhdk_44Gmew</a></div>
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Thompson Twins: If You Were Here (16 Candles)</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9vEb_oyWAU">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9vEb_oyWAU</a></div>
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Nancy Wilson: All For Love (Say Anything)</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1kI03NbRYU">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1kI03NbRYU</a></div>
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John Musser & Stephen Hague: Final Scene Underscore (Some Kind Of Wonderful)</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgiH-x1eRpw">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgiH-x1eRpw</a></div>
Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-83178674491754262182013-10-16T05:24:00.000-07:002013-10-16T05:41:19.730-07:00Say it ain't so, Markito!<br />
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My good friend, Mark Sorilla, signed off the Adventure a few days ago. I'm really going to miss this guy. Mark is one of the best people I know. His first instinct in any given situation (humorous, stressful, tense, angry, scary) is to laugh. This is a wonderful characteristic that spreads to and influences all those around him. His positive vibe, both on the bandstand and in life, will be missed greatly by me and everyone onboard. Mark is engaged, so a full life of married bliss and music await him back at him win the Phillippines. I wish him the best and look forward to seeing him sometime in the future. I'm sure we'll play some music and share some laughs then! Take care, pare. All the best!</div>
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Of course, I made a short iMovie for everyone. Follow the link below to see it.<br />
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https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/60443309/SIAS%2C%20Markito%21.mov<br />
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L - R: Mark, Me, Raf (piano).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7qxf_K9o0kfUIM0Nktd0lChfaueHwdJRRq5df3fIpEVVLNd2HWuUd2iNbt0Gv8-OzFTu31y71PEKl9akqFYAqX1-WxXJpqxFgQFpGCDKyFqk94yCtZKLBw0cpyOM3VGT9TcgWBYFNU3-/s1600/IMG_0276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7qxf_K9o0kfUIM0Nktd0lChfaueHwdJRRq5df3fIpEVVLNd2HWuUd2iNbt0Gv8-OzFTu31y71PEKl9akqFYAqX1-WxXJpqxFgQFpGCDKyFqk94yCtZKLBw0cpyOM3VGT9TcgWBYFNU3-/s320/IMG_0276.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Full band hang at Johnny Rockets!</div>
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Me and my main man, Markito.</div>
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The Adventure Horns. Inhabiting and taking over</div>
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the crew bar. L - R: Andrew (tenor sax), me, Mark (trumpet)</div>
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Sergio (trumpet), Dustin (alto sax).</div>
<br />Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-3264488159355844032013-09-25T06:51:00.002-07:002013-09-25T06:51:53.769-07:00Rome (in a day)<div class="p1">
Rome was one of the ports that I really wanted to get to - a major destination point on this European itinerary for me. Certainly one of the destinations that offers a lot to learn and marvel at (or so I was told), I happily escorted a panoramic tour of the city. I did end up learning a few things which I'm happy to share.</div>
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For starters, this is a VERY old place. I've seen some old things in Europe, but, Rome takes the cake. Definitely wins the age prize.</div>
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The buildings in Rome (or what's left of them, in some cases) are sometimes very beautiful and often breathtaking. However, this all took a backseat for me when I was told of the history of the people who inhabited this area. Almost ALL of the stories I was told about the Romans involved powerful rich people punishing and oppressing others. I heard so many grisly and disgusting tales from the tour guide that I made a list of all the atrocities to make sure I heard them all correctly. </div>
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These included stories of: </div>
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<li class="li1">decapitations</li>
<li class="li1">lies</li>
<li class="li1">emperors declaring themselves gods--which just proves that if you have enough money and power, you can make any outrageous claim and "prove" it true (see: Roman Catholic church)</li>
<li class="li1">war</li>
<li class="li1">deceit</li>
<li class="li1">crucifixion</li>
<li class="li1">upside down crucifixion</li>
<li class="li1">slavery</li>
<li class="li1">subjugation of women</li>
<li class="li1">incest</li>
<li class="li1">burning people alive</li>
<li class="li1">burying people alive</li>
<li class="li1">theft</li>
<li class="li1">murder</li>
<li class="li1">city-wide arson</li>
<li class="li1">kicking wives to death</li>
<li class="li1">suicide</li>
<li class="li1">animal cruelty (5,000 animals were brutally slaughtered for entertainment purposes alone during the first 100 days of the Colosseum opening)</li>
<li class="li1">assassinations</li>
<li class="li1">conquering other nations</li>
<li class="li1">public executions (including public beheadings as recently as 1868)</li>
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On the flip side of that coin, I also learned that that "Margherita" pizza (red tomato sauce, white mozzarella cheese, and green oregano) was created because it has the colors of the Italian flag. Hooray for decency!</div>
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My overall point, I guess, is this. I get that the large buildings are impressive as well as the age of the area. Building roads was important. However, people seem to overlook and brush past the wicked and cruel acts of tyranny that occurred in Rome. Yes. The Colosseum is impressive. However, shouldn't we take more than just a moment to realize that the people who built it (check that…HAD it built by slaves) thought that one of the most entertaining reasons to gather together inside the giant monstrosity was to watch an ostrich get it's head sliced off and to wager on how far it would run before it's headless body collapsed on the blood soaked sand? Should we really wave that away just because the building is big and old? For me, it was all a bit much. Never been happier to be on a panoramic tour. Drive-by explanations provided plenty of detail for me.</div>
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All in all, I had a great tour. A wonderful time and I learned a lot. The tour guide, Jackie, was outstanding. Informative, sense of humor, the perfect amount of talking and explanation. The bus was incredibly comfortable and air conditioned. The best part of Rome for me? Lemon ice cream.</div>
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St. Pete's.</div>
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Really old apartments where people lived a long time ago in history and stuff.</div>
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This building is called the Wedding Cake due to it's design.</div>
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Maybe more wedding cake-ey view here.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_HxH5dNJNaUwAZ1HnGjJOxCN0_V762ZWijy1laJck_XkfKDm7isTWfHfBHenkQdDwLdOC3ntdkFdXA5EbYhpqHxCuor4xiHPmPB9bAabeJdwnmbj0lO2Og4WTzsDMAyaOM_-2naEIAwKY/s1600/IMG_0823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_HxH5dNJNaUwAZ1HnGjJOxCN0_V762ZWijy1laJck_XkfKDm7isTWfHfBHenkQdDwLdOC3ntdkFdXA5EbYhpqHxCuor4xiHPmPB9bAabeJdwnmbj0lO2Og4WTzsDMAyaOM_-2naEIAwKY/s320/IMG_0823.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Senate.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjKK_tqvRebRYehIRVpdX1mMjjtALtF0v3QtGSXQ968tegkNmUSqQ3ixSk-3Iol8hdlp6UVFeKIGLtFrBk52rirUGU1BolcclI_tITRpgJ-OVhEJ46M_7YuTwdQ-GPIOruQC_RL9rTb8C/s1600/IMG_0824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjKK_tqvRebRYehIRVpdX1mMjjtALtF0v3QtGSXQ968tegkNmUSqQ3ixSk-3Iol8hdlp6UVFeKIGLtFrBk52rirUGU1BolcclI_tITRpgJ-OVhEJ46M_7YuTwdQ-GPIOruQC_RL9rTb8C/s320/IMG_0824.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another angle on the Senate.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4gKGtw4u4vD8Ty2Qy_CVEQX9vxnKnCZ0jjS1nYXV30dlOQwC9T9-qMEdy1N_H49K57HiH-G52bGB6FmotYd51tIW-yTuF7HP8dhxb3I1gnp9udG7NxFqhAlK2hQbIRPc72_c5mBbqlnD/s1600/IMG_0829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4gKGtw4u4vD8Ty2Qy_CVEQX9vxnKnCZ0jjS1nYXV30dlOQwC9T9-qMEdy1N_H49K57HiH-G52bGB6FmotYd51tIW-yTuF7HP8dhxb3I1gnp9udG7NxFqhAlK2hQbIRPc72_c5mBbqlnD/s320/IMG_0829.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Colosseum.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhF2H7Yw2hNoQRGuW5HSw47TTiUtD416Jkr6M6VZWb87heUpfdKJi3pkBeCzBTH25jPfuB8rytGqxfc1_7uJ8YCQbczojQQ7NKR1Lt1Nfr8R4d3DuirVKuTCdt-rcEOxaFaAuWv_rkarD/s1600/IMG_0831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhF2H7Yw2hNoQRGuW5HSw47TTiUtD416Jkr6M6VZWb87heUpfdKJi3pkBeCzBTH25jPfuB8rytGqxfc1_7uJ8YCQbczojQQ7NKR1Lt1Nfr8R4d3DuirVKuTCdt-rcEOxaFaAuWv_rkarD/s320/IMG_0831.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Holy Crap. So close to ice cream!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVndXU_of-aUDprxAZFCwbPESKc_q3BA8WoElqHVeRn8blBqyhc5C_74xBCuMZhiWMbybJgFL_Guv29it0aktwJ_9YIBR1quxF52-TYV339SyNvWj3vWqVMQjXJs_EZzAxSBpfJ1Lk9tk7/s1600/IMG_0832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVndXU_of-aUDprxAZFCwbPESKc_q3BA8WoElqHVeRn8blBqyhc5C_74xBCuMZhiWMbybJgFL_Guv29it0aktwJ_9YIBR1quxF52-TYV339SyNvWj3vWqVMQjXJs_EZzAxSBpfJ1Lk9tk7/s320/IMG_0832.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Yes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbD4oEZq5DmAdVri8sux_pKPO1D5ibx1m17gOGWOoiHnqluPy5f4v22Jcg6OqNKZBJYI5AcqsJa4GAHWQp-CY9BzzZkgS5zCBofZpPTs546M0FYBMnlAfyiHa2ibsEffodGIWtyeN1WgNE/s1600/IMG_0836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="72" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbD4oEZq5DmAdVri8sux_pKPO1D5ibx1m17gOGWOoiHnqluPy5f4v22Jcg6OqNKZBJYI5AcqsJa4GAHWQp-CY9BzzZkgS5zCBofZpPTs546M0FYBMnlAfyiHa2ibsEffodGIWtyeN1WgNE/s320/IMG_0836.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Panoramic of St. Pete's.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoMbpkXt-9OQeogXQMC8wZO4ciPPUAwfGAoZE2aefoUQjju4ZJyTygLaKMRrkIZVXAOsSv6bSzIYf-FZlQnX3JzSemjc2sO9qjqxbyGIp3WvioBAFQLqxxCVICDO5Ml08v2XjxMO48hKj/s1600/IMG_0840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoMbpkXt-9OQeogXQMC8wZO4ciPPUAwfGAoZE2aefoUQjju4ZJyTygLaKMRrkIZVXAOsSv6bSzIYf-FZlQnX3JzSemjc2sO9qjqxbyGIp3WvioBAFQLqxxCVICDO5Ml08v2XjxMO48hKj/s320/IMG_0840.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I thought these pillars were awesome.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-45206790314835995402013-09-25T06:46:00.000-07:002013-09-25T06:46:02.782-07:00Barcelona<div class="p1">
Quick picture post here of some shots from my "panoramic" tour of Barcelona. A panoramic tour (I found out through experience) is one that involves mostly sightseeing from the seat of a bus. Minimized walking for passengers that are don't get around that easy can be a bonus. Even though I'm perfectly capable of walking long distances, I prefer this type of tour. I get a chance to see a lot of different places and get a snapshot of an entire area. This seems to work better for me as opposed to an in depth, detailed look at 2-3 tourist destinations in the city. Enjoy the pictures.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDx5wUyZHhYL3BNor_gU_dll0x_yb78gT9t1n30o4JJTyeGMuRf9T1e9gSsKl_CV_ZXKMzCU-F85wjej54NMKfEcgmKGnuP2lo2OrD6RSK_sgO6uUdmGm_yDxZsPd6ZRu_6JCkaTpU0WC/s1600/IMG_0793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDx5wUyZHhYL3BNor_gU_dll0x_yb78gT9t1n30o4JJTyeGMuRf9T1e9gSsKl_CV_ZXKMzCU-F85wjej54NMKfEcgmKGnuP2lo2OrD6RSK_sgO6uUdmGm_yDxZsPd6ZRu_6JCkaTpU0WC/s320/IMG_0793.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A city of 1.5 million people. Again...the weather!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwepzMTqdHn1l5gk8e2JK263vCk7LiPHku26Af_ez8F53lVK3B8xZdNSZnUK4McNyTmB4RopwjlDPZuG3ozXNHXJ1nBQ2xQu2hMsi_wLWW97DEam9jIAKOLTOHafAzU0ves2WgvjmN9RmP/s1600/IMG_0797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwepzMTqdHn1l5gk8e2JK263vCk7LiPHku26Af_ez8F53lVK3B8xZdNSZnUK4McNyTmB4RopwjlDPZuG3ozXNHXJ1nBQ2xQu2hMsi_wLWW97DEam9jIAKOLTOHafAzU0ves2WgvjmN9RmP/s320/IMG_0797.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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That's my ship (I can see my house from here)!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgvWDDSdIhF71vV_GNTBF9ZkaQet-VkvrbVeV4kf1D-PrZ0WqcVtyNOZG06TXcAqvmzT80flhUsP9Yl01c6F3RNnsY54uV1QeRBS_KcpLXDtHKcnK_VJ1C1hlxtNCaQ6a22sIc48-aUiZv/s1600/IMG_0798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgvWDDSdIhF71vV_GNTBF9ZkaQet-VkvrbVeV4kf1D-PrZ0WqcVtyNOZG06TXcAqvmzT80flhUsP9Yl01c6F3RNnsY54uV1QeRBS_KcpLXDtHKcnK_VJ1C1hlxtNCaQ6a22sIc48-aUiZv/s320/IMG_0798.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizG9ZdfC5Rja22IqTf1hfSykcy78kfpAKnm1dj90Ylt3-Mh7Ahvje8sbtIcvQ7v6tu0mtdrGtb_N2nT4gEr0O3jkL92pPy-BPY4Iz8BmmY5VZEFXkAbCYNgPgRyO9qgWfX7_JgjgFCttAC/s1600/IMG_0799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizG9ZdfC5Rja22IqTf1hfSykcy78kfpAKnm1dj90Ylt3-Mh7Ahvje8sbtIcvQ7v6tu0mtdrGtb_N2nT4gEr0O3jkL92pPy-BPY4Iz8BmmY5VZEFXkAbCYNgPgRyO9qgWfX7_JgjgFCttAC/s320/IMG_0799.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Statue commemorating a local dance.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_U34ZBMZ_dohR-qr-n5O-9lsiEAdpljOsfUuUFhJ2wiFcOcrXMD8fm5OsO0L9fER7OpFn5cxRn-YDFG2zD0IDK_55XWaJPLVhxpgxog1ZSZKRaZLvFJEX7PLIwuomcRd7H3k98HSunIv2/s1600/IMG_0800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_U34ZBMZ_dohR-qr-n5O-9lsiEAdpljOsfUuUFhJ2wiFcOcrXMD8fm5OsO0L9fER7OpFn5cxRn-YDFG2zD0IDK_55XWaJPLVhxpgxog1ZSZKRaZLvFJEX7PLIwuomcRd7H3k98HSunIv2/s320/IMG_0800.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Drive-by of Olympic Stadium for 1992 games.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94OPmHfLu4p5LjzTUZcOZ2OjR_Ch4rqfefp7fbed1g0ZyYlBgvqBCe_-89jeRCm2Zs5WnA1HlIRTllD3O5FwtvbxHxpk5KCFRb05oqp7R0m2UcjsPNpT6qfUSNrydaA0wY7I6TFQ5xp6s/s1600/IMG_0802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94OPmHfLu4p5LjzTUZcOZ2OjR_Ch4rqfefp7fbed1g0ZyYlBgvqBCe_-89jeRCm2Zs5WnA1HlIRTllD3O5FwtvbxHxpk5KCFRb05oqp7R0m2UcjsPNpT6qfUSNrydaA0wY7I6TFQ5xp6s/s320/IMG_0802.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Famous Gaudi architecture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWB4a_x56YCu9WCizQF240pN6HhM55HumBWeIhXBCotiJ5Mn_qXXmnApjWd8KKDMDA2V9Khn7y-z5Lfox-mpqy1KQekeDPZ1cxJu3US4novHHoBMJScy3StcIdEE0vhiogH5-4Q_kI-G9e/s1600/IMG_0803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWB4a_x56YCu9WCizQF240pN6HhM55HumBWeIhXBCotiJ5Mn_qXXmnApjWd8KKDMDA2V9Khn7y-z5Lfox-mpqy1KQekeDPZ1cxJu3US4novHHoBMJScy3StcIdEE0vhiogH5-4Q_kI-G9e/s320/IMG_0803.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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More Gaudi.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOVcSuygh4K_HpY3cTAoY5RHSRcNifAd_UDnBe146sBfoOQsYwcRmIR9Co3_AylPB48nTBgijdQL2U4KrFPd8YRcSd7RroPosQ8LYmdPod3xEHh-AWpq5Jy_sXb_pCC_JW75WN76HA8sm/s1600/IMG_0806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOVcSuygh4K_HpY3cTAoY5RHSRcNifAd_UDnBe146sBfoOQsYwcRmIR9Co3_AylPB48nTBgijdQL2U4KrFPd8YRcSd7RroPosQ8LYmdPod3xEHh-AWpq5Jy_sXb_pCC_JW75WN76HA8sm/s320/IMG_0806.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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A giant church tower looming in the distance.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6qirbyZoPU724byhfYrN0EmUGQusW3xmql01UwcUem_QvZzzZTpFBH6TR358J3-Jqaz0HjUaR9cIbkrqeZESEBE2-A3Mb4JfL9tNdOX4n94CKJAxAx0Dt9X0n1yR71JNgf9mWEZSg9BQ/s1600/IMG_0808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6qirbyZoPU724byhfYrN0EmUGQusW3xmql01UwcUem_QvZzzZTpFBH6TR358J3-Jqaz0HjUaR9cIbkrqeZESEBE2-A3Mb4JfL9tNdOX4n94CKJAxAx0Dt9X0n1yR71JNgf9mWEZSg9BQ/s320/IMG_0808.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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Probably the coolest door gate I've ever seen.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JGeMcM1Wr2Y9N1WsXwzsyGvAAoJds0VTRfIH5osNkJCTNHhD4BZkW8EN7aMMlumEGaVqnKX1dLSeo3QyxM-za3lMA7XXaDKEZy6BXz77_pb0XsoY7IaNe1Wy_MFvuAfMpxNEV6rXC4dP/s1600/IMG_0809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JGeMcM1Wr2Y9N1WsXwzsyGvAAoJds0VTRfIH5osNkJCTNHhD4BZkW8EN7aMMlumEGaVqnKX1dLSeo3QyxM-za3lMA7XXaDKEZy6BXz77_pb0XsoY7IaNe1Wy_MFvuAfMpxNEV6rXC4dP/s320/IMG_0809.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Front of church.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-83643643342158269932013-09-25T06:40:00.001-07:002013-09-25T06:40:20.100-07:00Gibraltar<div class="p1">
Normally, my visits to port include a short amount of sightseeing (anything within walking distance) and a search for WiFi internet to stay in contact with folks back home. However, because I have the unique opportunity to visit Europe for free, I've been skipping the internet search in lieu of tours to see more of the countryside and culture of these different areas. This past cruise took me to Gibraltar. This unique port is an extremely busy shipping location with literally tons of goods and oil moving through the strait daily. Also featuring a large rock formation, this port provides some spectacular views. On this particular day I completely lucked out with the weather and had an opportunity for some great pictures of the surrounding area…and some monkeys. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKlgEc42Zg7K7j_lkcngDd1_tkvrMRmZOSxZzgmdj-LkstBbPBYUPKqvSZkPrc9tgRMTm95V4llHjGt9kVMIB7Tonr1fw8H4CDowTy3EoVopSpel8ErbBaaSmDyyNc7zcGn9lSYOh1KWp/s1600/IMG_0733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKlgEc42Zg7K7j_lkcngDd1_tkvrMRmZOSxZzgmdj-LkstBbPBYUPKqvSZkPrc9tgRMTm95V4llHjGt9kVMIB7Tonr1fw8H4CDowTy3EoVopSpel8ErbBaaSmDyyNc7zcGn9lSYOh1KWp/s320/IMG_0733.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtSQ_lklHG2KzP-erh6Md7Lp4JVCLLp2lXVMRcdcUeDk8Pn5xjk5VwqXrmYGbB1sYvNbmrbozEm6ArGxtnp4NdbBSJtBOXOhGO71nLYMTKlYvtv0NaVmUX-u0j6Z1sqSrKhSFqm-GMyUp/s1600/IMG_0734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtSQ_lklHG2KzP-erh6Md7Lp4JVCLLp2lXVMRcdcUeDk8Pn5xjk5VwqXrmYGbB1sYvNbmrbozEm6ArGxtnp4NdbBSJtBOXOhGO71nLYMTKlYvtv0NaVmUX-u0j6Z1sqSrKhSFqm-GMyUp/s320/IMG_0734.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Med.</div>
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That's Africa in the distance.</div>
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The Atlantic.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46L-WE1lcNl87NSMw5J6YBbsJlhzCIXbqp3Kie4ynNiU5d87jGApUVoC6U45DSof4yGIWldW7QfV4CL2WkZByqGbMR0oVazvIHjJonYdirs-_tzTiZMBckSfztLQW-lZ97E8ETR8ydYVZ/s1600/IMG_0740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46L-WE1lcNl87NSMw5J6YBbsJlhzCIXbqp3Kie4ynNiU5d87jGApUVoC6U45DSof4yGIWldW7QfV4CL2WkZByqGbMR0oVazvIHjJonYdirs-_tzTiZMBckSfztLQW-lZ97E8ETR8ydYVZ/s320/IMG_0740.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Me and my good friend Jivan.</div>
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Caves may be more breathtaking in person.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NMrGhPRS6htawJi1LHofkY6qDU_e7isgh_JJ74FCMx_u5f3uRP6BtZm9OAXm-i6Ot_6ySwdzISo-FhMjnBlBQ9Hpc-kOQVRdKEJBJTTI7xS1XnLsayR_XuV8U6YYxFeoG90OiM92F5cq/s1600/IMG_0749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NMrGhPRS6htawJi1LHofkY6qDU_e7isgh_JJ74FCMx_u5f3uRP6BtZm9OAXm-i6Ot_6ySwdzISo-FhMjnBlBQ9Hpc-kOQVRdKEJBJTTI7xS1XnLsayR_XuV8U6YYxFeoG90OiM92F5cq/s320/IMG_0749.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Unpaid tourist guide.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fHaFM8Ck2p00WyiMH5WEuBF1M5vM5PTNmKqYqO4VSmNIcECeFnd92uQhmH297vCL0_e-aF1JXy6Rm-uzzcLMOltYb0Ubh5w8P35acExPhgng4HgZt-nRpwtH-bwNnjWmNnOldw_ldOlx/s1600/IMG_0760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fHaFM8Ck2p00WyiMH5WEuBF1M5vM5PTNmKqYqO4VSmNIcECeFnd92uQhmH297vCL0_e-aF1JXy6Rm-uzzcLMOltYb0Ubh5w8P35acExPhgng4HgZt-nRpwtH-bwNnjWmNnOldw_ldOlx/s320/IMG_0760.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfhxsNEUcE6O42gJzlrYyv-xPnHdtb-rcsa35KzCRPYwiYxSvEVgXHNRFDN2h6tjYR9ldcl_gqWobnBnlWYqhBLwD2ZxnqAKeyeicrW79RGnXBV7q1TOUCGHifNDwPnxdqXj75qlj5mMz/s1600/IMG_0761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfhxsNEUcE6O42gJzlrYyv-xPnHdtb-rcsa35KzCRPYwiYxSvEVgXHNRFDN2h6tjYR9ldcl_gqWobnBnlWYqhBLwD2ZxnqAKeyeicrW79RGnXBV7q1TOUCGHifNDwPnxdqXj75qlj5mMz/s320/IMG_0761.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sBs65ZgH-6woh46_SBkGE2SZ2gW8AxcJeNz5P4KfI9DUn45DgMaVk6Oah-s1bePhiiv7OFMD7jqg2p77IX2-wsnIxHN46N3rm366tu3e2ZUaGBOApWZMz50nfqXQtWwRttGITNpOJezu/s1600/IMG_0762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sBs65ZgH-6woh46_SBkGE2SZ2gW8AxcJeNz5P4KfI9DUn45DgMaVk6Oah-s1bePhiiv7OFMD7jqg2p77IX2-wsnIxHN46N3rm366tu3e2ZUaGBOApWZMz50nfqXQtWwRttGITNpOJezu/s320/IMG_0762.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The monkeys can smell my fear.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-JVtjiJnvnXvtNNxJ8w39UlgWtTErbdEMi1rD-RubSYvoez4uktqItNWBjTJ5sS4g2EoVPGEHDvNVoIFGcm3a8txuBGdG_qiDspOFhitzUg4wHxiwqikvomP6fdgoflslDc7Y83HfPFG-/s1600/IMG_0766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-JVtjiJnvnXvtNNxJ8w39UlgWtTErbdEMi1rD-RubSYvoez4uktqItNWBjTJ5sS4g2EoVPGEHDvNVoIFGcm3a8txuBGdG_qiDspOFhitzUg4wHxiwqikvomP6fdgoflslDc7Y83HfPFG-/s320/IMG_0766.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikx0wJvaiC2AyP-cn6dPNphV0UMJgGIbIcEHvcACLkxm1mMTxsRelDPmXOeKwQfjRn6d5gcfqjPxc7EAZFgztDtPXuaU4_2I6TGMXZDGHdqoZ8j-ACU6GxlIV3xVOtcvLMXKFPnfM1rUWm/s1600/IMG_0767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikx0wJvaiC2AyP-cn6dPNphV0UMJgGIbIcEHvcACLkxm1mMTxsRelDPmXOeKwQfjRn6d5gcfqjPxc7EAZFgztDtPXuaU4_2I6TGMXZDGHdqoZ8j-ACU6GxlIV3xVOtcvLMXKFPnfM1rUWm/s320/IMG_0767.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpbQtbbj9SPF-ENO0iPeNHWgNq1STFlDkGjkOa9Kyfa92A0JV3d64UbgPkbnPXcCz-ZWgfoi-DOFT6Y6pPpcIzA-bS5-zl99iLBSPJw0Opj4DT42NR6Yagn2JOBnAKsqs5tfzUdBI_7UH/s1600/IMG_0772.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="72" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpbQtbbj9SPF-ENO0iPeNHWgNq1STFlDkGjkOa9Kyfa92A0JV3d64UbgPkbnPXcCz-ZWgfoi-DOFT6Y6pPpcIzA-bS5-zl99iLBSPJw0Opj4DT42NR6Yagn2JOBnAKsqs5tfzUdBI_7UH/s320/IMG_0772.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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How about that weather?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZUJ9wwt9L17YMFCuZLRjWF_4Sq3Q12IasV5iO-leFCJcwGZbNp5Ev1ESjlCY0oZFhI-b5GP8BhTaXoO8rmdH7JSSIptrdnJ_v4Jav0bir2SKMvZ7qk6cY4baAA038xyCuDp9amjz6S2Cn/s1600/IMG_0773.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZUJ9wwt9L17YMFCuZLRjWF_4Sq3Q12IasV5iO-leFCJcwGZbNp5Ev1ESjlCY0oZFhI-b5GP8BhTaXoO8rmdH7JSSIptrdnJ_v4Jav0bir2SKMvZ7qk6cY4baAA038xyCuDp9amjz6S2Cn/s320/IMG_0773.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Seriously. The weather!</div>
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Cannon view.</div>
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Across the airport runway is Spain.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-88636498319507489882013-09-25T06:28:00.001-07:002013-09-25T06:28:17.413-07:00Spa Day<div class="p1">
Sometimes the best way to see a port is not through a sponsored tour. It can be more fun to explore the port and surrounding areas on your own. Or, better yet, with a group of friends. This is what happened on our second consecutive day in Reykjavik, Iceland. </div>
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After the overnight stay and tapas the evening before, Dustin (alto sax), Mark (trumpet), and myself rented a car and navigated our way to The Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon is a geothermic spa about a 45 minute drive from the port area. To get there, you have to take a bus or drive through miles of rocky terrain. For a good portion of the trip, you may as well be on the moon. However, there is a reward at the end of that trip: an amazing spa complete with mineral rich water heated naturally, a swim up bar, floating massages, steam rooms, saunas, and an amazing lunch buffet. We fortuitously and unexpectedly met up with Shannon (singer from our last production cast) and Dieter (production manager) and a few other ship friends at the Lagoon and had a terrific day. </div>
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Mark and I with the rental car.</div>
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Some ship friends in the spa.</div>
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"What the hell kinda rock is this?"</div>
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Arrival photo.</div>
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Mineral rich water.</div>
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It's a HUGE spa. All "jacuzzi" warm!</div>
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Specific shower instructions.</div>
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Shannon was not looking at the camera. First time for everything!</div>
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Mark and Dieter.</div>
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Dustin, Shannon, and me.</div>
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Dustin with some fresh wheat grass juice (or something).</div>
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My facial mask (self applied).</div>
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Swim/wade up bar.</div>
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Look at that SKY!</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-27744423382914801812013-09-25T06:14:00.003-07:002013-09-25T06:14:52.045-07:00Tapas…in Iceland?<div class="p1">
I experienced a scheduled overnight port with Adventure of the Seas during our cruise to Iceland and Norway. The ship docked in Reykjavik, Iceland late morning on a Tuesday and didn't leave until the following Wednesday evening allowing the crew members a rare opportunity to spend some time off the ship at night. You know…when it's dark outside? </div>
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After playing our big band set, a few of the band members and myself made a decision to try to get to a tapas bar downtown. The problem is, the bar closed at around 10 pm. We left the ship at 8:45 pm. Doesn't seem like a big deal until you realize that the downtown area of Reykjavik is not within walking distance from the pier. To complicate matters further, taxi service was sporadic. Not to mention all of the other groups of crew members trying to make it to downtown before all the local establishments closed as well. </div>
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It took a bit of doing, but, we made it. Stepping into the tapas bar just before the kitchen closed and sweet talking the staff to let us stay late, we took our seats. After ordering half of the menu (seriously…it was as if we hadn't eaten in weeks) the meal included some of the tastiest food I've had since signing on the ship. I even tried whale. Chewy, but, not bad!</div>
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I've said it before and I'll say it again: there's something about doing things as a group of friends that brings you closer together and enriches the experience. Even just a simple taxi ride to a late dinner can turn into an incredibly memorable experience.</div>
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Mark is ready to eat!</div>
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L - R: Mark (trumpet), Kris (drums), me, Dustin (alto sax)</div>
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Kris looking tough.</div>
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This picture taken JUST before his tapas slid off the plate.</div>
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Dustin doing his thing. He's eating puffin - a local bird.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-24407188943920948122013-09-09T03:17:00.000-07:002013-09-09T03:17:14.449-07:00Don't Go Chasing Waterfalls<div class="p1">
Another beautiful port in Norway is a small village called Flåm. Protected from the ocean by the mountainous fjord, Flåm is a quiet, almost miniature, port for the Adventure of the Seas. The ship looms huge and hulking over the small village where guests and crew visit to take tours and enjoy nature hikes. No major industry here with the constant loading and offloading of cargo ships in the harbor slips next to the cruise ship commonly found in most other ports. Flåm is a respite from all of that. Dustin (alto sax), Andrew (tenor sax), and myself took the opportunity to hike to a waterfall that was visible from the ship. A beautiful day with some great scenery and wonderful exercise. Enjoy the video below.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-41484985673456290442013-09-09T03:07:00.000-07:002013-09-09T03:07:21.969-07:00Touring Ålesund, Norway<div class="p1">
One of the advantages to being a crew member is the ability to escort shore excursions. The job of the tour escort is to guide the paying guests to the transportation off the ship (usually a bus), help count heads when leaving tour destinations, and enjoy what the tour has to offer while filling out a comment/rating sheet. That's it. In addition to the job being really easy, you get to go on tours for free. Nice!</div>
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I took the opportunity to escort a tour of Ålesund on our last visit. I wanted to get out of the port city and enjoy a little bit of the countryside and inland areas. As it turns out, there aren't very many inland areas of Norway to explore. I did get a chance to see and learn many different things about the town thanks to our tour guide, Aydin (like Haydn, the composer, but without the 'H'). Aydin is Turkish, but, moved to Ålesund in 1977. He speaks Turkish, Norwegian, and English and LOVES boogie-woogie rock and roll. </div>
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The town of Ålesund (3rd largest city in Norway, I believe) was re-formed by fire in 1904. A fire started in a canning factory and burned through most of the port city including setting fire to many fishing sailboats in the harbor. The fire extinguished due to lack of fuel - it had literally destroyed everything in it's path. There was only one casualty in the fire, one elderly woman who actually lived next to the fire station. She got out of her house safely in time to avoid the fire, but, went back inside (presumably for belongings) and never made it back. Ålesund reflects the devastation of the incident today in that the area of the town that burned is divided from the VERY small area that didn't by the design and architecture of the buildings. When the town was rebuilt, many architects moved to town and took the opportunity to design very modern structures, for example, complete with indoor plumbing. Doesn't sound like that big of a deal, but, in 1904 it was rare. Furthermore, the rebuilt area of town contain concrete buildings as wood buildings were banned after the fire. Ålesund was rebuilt in 3 years. Over 600 of 850 buildings had to be replaced. </div>
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Our first tour stop was at an aquarium near the shore. It's not exactly Sea World (although, maybe that's a good thing), but, the aquarium did have a lot to offer. Many fish indigenous to the waters of Norway could be viewed behind the glass in tanks. There were also a group of penguins living outside near the water's edge. Penguins are not found in Norway naturally, but, these animals seemed to be comfortable in their environment. The main attraction of the aquarium was the largest tank holding. I never got the exact dimensions of the tank, but, it is filled and refilled with over 10,000 liters of unfiltered sea water per minute. The water is sucked in through a pipe 450 meters out in the ocean. The tank was filled with hundreds of fish. Cod, halibut, wolf fish, and more. The 'glass' of the tank was actually acrylic plastic measuring 21 centimeters thick. The fish are fed twice a day by a diver with shrimp and pieces of smaller fish. I was lucky enough to be there during a feeding and got a few photos of the diver inside the tank. Very cool.</div>
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Our next stop was at a very old church on a nearby island. We travelled to the island by bus through an undersea tunnel. Many of the islands in Norway are connected this way. The church is over 900 years old and, I believe, is one of the oldest in Norway. I thought the best part of the church stop was checking out the 900+ year old marble outside. Scratched into the marble were "kissing crosses." These scraggly crosses are reported to get you absolution of sins for 90 days if they were kissed on the birthdays of certain saints. Pretty good get-out-of-jail-free-card for a little smooch. </div>
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We also stopped at a lighthouse (which I climbed all the way to the top of) and a mountaintop lookout. Some great views were captured at both places. I also had a homemade waffle with jam and coffee at the lighthouse. Excellent! Homes on the mountaintop start at 1 million USD. Don't think I'll be retiring there anytime soon.</div>
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Anyway, I learned a lot about Norway on my tour. Looking forward to escorting some tours to Rome and Pisa when we return to the Med.</div>
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The Big Tank.</div>
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From just outside the aquarium.</div>
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This is the pipe that fills the big tank with ocean water.</div>
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Penguins. Just hanging out.</div>
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Ringing the dinner bell for all the little fishies.</div>
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A farm near the lighthouse stop.</div>
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Not great weather, but, beautiful views anyway.</div>
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The view from the top of the lighthouse.</div>
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This house has a turf roof. Kind of cool.</div>
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From the mountaintop lookout.</div>
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I can see my house from here! Wait, that's just my ship.</div>
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I took a picture of the mountaintop lookout from the pier.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-74275746690463563912013-08-23T04:20:00.002-07:002013-08-23T04:28:08.406-07:00Skjolden - A Beautiful Port<div class="p1">
Made our second stop in Norway this cruise in Skjolden (don't ask me to pronounce that). A beautiful, SMALL, town located at (I'm told) the furthest inland fjord in Norway. A fjord is an narrow oceanic waterway, usually surrounded by mountains. I didn't get far off the ship today, as I was busy with other things onboard, however I was able to take some amazing photos and video from Decks 4 and 5. I put them together in a short iMovie for the blog. This is truly a beautiful place. Next week when we return I'll take a tour to either the glacier or to the waterfalls nearby. Either one should be amazing. These photos will have to suffice for now.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxGHQExvBDhwKB-6uNB4rvwoD1AusRzxP-NeJMZLjbIlM5NiDw23aYIOf6mlxpkgrIuxiWBqVRZhZgjE6fVFw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-83719087640280079612013-08-23T03:48:00.001-07:002013-08-23T03:48:19.650-07:00Photo Post - Malaga, Civitivecchia, La Spezia, Gibraltar, Southampton<div class="p1">
Being back in Malaga was a trip for me. When did my first contact on Adventure of the Seas, Malaga was my sign-on and home port for 3 weeks. Lots of memories for me here. My first trip to Europe, ever. Upon my return, I checked out some old hang spots, grabbed a cup of coffee, had a bit of pizza and took a picture of a shopping area and some shade-providing-thingys that I always thought were cool.</div>
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See the curved shade line? Makes the return to the</div>
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ship walk a little more fun.</div>
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Civitivecchia</div>
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My first port in Italy. My first experience of Italy. Actually, really turned me off. I found almost every person I met there to be generally rude. This must be a isolated experience since I've heard so many great things about Europe and Italy especially. I can't wait to get back there and work on changing my impression. In spite of all that negativity, Dustin and I had a good time eating local cuisine and trying some limoncello.</div>
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There is old stuff in Europe. </div>
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Deserted afternoon street. Why stay open</div>
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during the busiest shopping hours? What's the</div>
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point of that?</div>
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I got the 4 cheese pizza. Awesome.</div>
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Dustin enjoying and mocking local</div>
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culture at the same time. </div>
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Always represent UM. Go Blue!</div>
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Big guy. Tiny gelato. Tiny spoon.</div>
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Limoncello. Liquor made from lemon rinds. Not</div>
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my favorite, but, at least I tried it!</div>
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La Spezia</div>
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My second port in Italy. My second experience of Italy. A polar opposite to my first experience (Civitiveccia) here, La Spezia was great. Beautiful, secluded, quiet, and the people were largely friendly and welcoming. Maybe this was because it was Sunday and everything was closed (except for ONE restaurant)!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinkhM5VwyhmpQW9zL8vwj_MOVuVFZy4v0utzkSRlz2iqIqxrky9r4X-owKVHvSgjdVYQVDiypljOwv1UhEhDn0roOpexOo81FsK3a0GC6_z00C5MLU6HjlTvNORMLyzNudXZEqxttyQJwg/s1600/IMG_3741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinkhM5VwyhmpQW9zL8vwj_MOVuVFZy4v0utzkSRlz2iqIqxrky9r4X-owKVHvSgjdVYQVDiypljOwv1UhEhDn0roOpexOo81FsK3a0GC6_z00C5MLU6HjlTvNORMLyzNudXZEqxttyQJwg/s320/IMG_3741.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Just a short walk from the pier.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3aehmTS1QGive56JlertM8iIjdgMn4uhCXr5mZyfhxdhpO4ZHDZcycyDbE2dcLEJyPsyxeyltF5hpLa5XjfhQwQKb11nob22tECc91QGDSVqFn8vbgSdzWapj8nByr-WXAEzXJli0YIY/s1600/IMG_3743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3aehmTS1QGive56JlertM8iIjdgMn4uhCXr5mZyfhxdhpO4ZHDZcycyDbE2dcLEJyPsyxeyltF5hpLa5XjfhQwQKb11nob22tECc91QGDSVqFn8vbgSdzWapj8nByr-WXAEzXJli0YIY/s320/IMG_3743.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Gardens, gardens, gardens.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUD3oXCZ9a5ZXSy5OPg2Cro_HdIw70qLvxVlsvCGhSUwBGM2VvjWAFgFxtGbf7CXpGoVhumYTAE8kEceRJ-jWwUU50RmSyX7JAXzsHSWjXkRNNN5B8kFYnkKZm4d7bC_7J5nW60zAzb4Eu/s1600/IMG_3744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUD3oXCZ9a5ZXSy5OPg2Cro_HdIw70qLvxVlsvCGhSUwBGM2VvjWAFgFxtGbf7CXpGoVhumYTAE8kEceRJ-jWwUU50RmSyX7JAXzsHSWjXkRNNN5B8kFYnkKZm4d7bC_7J5nW60zAzb4Eu/s320/IMG_3744.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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More gardens.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8WzuTfD-l9rtb5fXSZ_7mSmVP5CiBQ8KF3ZjlMV8JClGqnIkyhIzlQyfAZrQUkUYddM052Uo9LSCizrwKRV0iRWIJB1UwKD-lKyC0hKQCzHzVLa8Qz3xPkfIER_Fn30gkEQCf9-pF0q4/s1600/IMG_3745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8WzuTfD-l9rtb5fXSZ_7mSmVP5CiBQ8KF3ZjlMV8JClGqnIkyhIzlQyfAZrQUkUYddM052Uo9LSCizrwKRV0iRWIJB1UwKD-lKyC0hKQCzHzVLa8Qz3xPkfIER_Fn30gkEQCf9-pF0q4/s320/IMG_3745.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cool pedestrian bridge.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LaFg6nN-xntuVz2lO4sPvNZfbfNB7bp9L1uREyFBxOtBGlgn0NIU6CkETFCQsUx9RTTaCKj3gF3KNsWOc0N9hI6Js3jY9KjHzfN6vUGOWKaAcANr8R0bdbw5C3XVAkmilcGOLQm8Ae00/s1600/IMG_3746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LaFg6nN-xntuVz2lO4sPvNZfbfNB7bp9L1uREyFBxOtBGlgn0NIU6CkETFCQsUx9RTTaCKj3gF3KNsWOc0N9hI6Js3jY9KjHzfN6vUGOWKaAcANr8R0bdbw5C3XVAkmilcGOLQm8Ae00/s320/IMG_3746.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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For some reason, I take pictures of statues.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidkyZ0P0GK-yXW4m93u_6nO1jMuVvIRQmj0CBANfjP0xb9B7_sIUm7Br76v-gLZPL_Y0V3ekTjeME_ZgbAfsOTpYFXmGI0db-VyS1fAqbsJeobBRI-2phiLWFW6PLFXB4cjSsM1X8PvCu/s1600/IMG_3747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidkyZ0P0GK-yXW4m93u_6nO1jMuVvIRQmj0CBANfjP0xb9B7_sIUm7Br76v-gLZPL_Y0V3ekTjeME_ZgbAfsOTpYFXmGI0db-VyS1fAqbsJeobBRI-2phiLWFW6PLFXB4cjSsM1X8PvCu/s320/IMG_3747.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Local theater.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXL_8WU1ZAKpmT_Cr0tOfzaHCIj2G7bfnTvQPF3_yNtVFPMWrDcF96kVQeLqA8i0mE2FNLJAT5fZm7YFHIZHnGSRdydvGKQxom0Am7e_aAxmKIS1xkQdyKiuziRICQSpNt2vK4KIfvobXV/s1600/IMG_3748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXL_8WU1ZAKpmT_Cr0tOfzaHCIj2G7bfnTvQPF3_yNtVFPMWrDcF96kVQeLqA8i0mE2FNLJAT5fZm7YFHIZHnGSRdydvGKQxom0Am7e_aAxmKIS1xkQdyKiuziRICQSpNt2vK4KIfvobXV/s320/IMG_3748.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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More old European stuff. The wall, not the bikes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9kHBOnbsPlhiD9rAsNZyx8W_WL_hoDNzofoWNH7n1fr97o3GfXHkDlfLjgy_SZz2VRYX2Qtnf4gBWK7kN8Vy_iiShBYT5UgP0CysvavOdk6a02bKzDRKQPebB6doRiYIZsGx23e723NF/s1600/IMG_3749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9kHBOnbsPlhiD9rAsNZyx8W_WL_hoDNzofoWNH7n1fr97o3GfXHkDlfLjgy_SZz2VRYX2Qtnf4gBWK7kN8Vy_iiShBYT5UgP0CysvavOdk6a02bKzDRKQPebB6doRiYIZsGx23e723NF/s320/IMG_3749.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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How old is this?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3_YJpRRL9-SnDlhVfIw-F0K2MKgYfKbdg0f_78jbbdi0WxrbtXJ_dRd_fxS57T_9QY2jK32xNh_FvP0Oio2IBQq2Bz3Fi_G-imQtiff3sLUGT9mTXWKFA2mhHSnK-a3o6Vxnt_3X_vft/s1600/IMG_3750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3_YJpRRL9-SnDlhVfIw-F0K2MKgYfKbdg0f_78jbbdi0WxrbtXJ_dRd_fxS57T_9QY2jK32xNh_FvP0Oio2IBQq2Bz3Fi_G-imQtiff3sLUGT9mTXWKFA2mhHSnK-a3o6Vxnt_3X_vft/s320/IMG_3750.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Dustin prepping for fresh cooked seafood!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqtJ3e_7pRQUyX-9ixJwcax0gVxwncF_pn-3gnO9E_GbKzYJ73Rx7YOA5NhPhG-1Kj1iDyf2I6hnkh84h4omYqJeNuTMlgtHF7tLNBX9ChWtGcdcI3yNX13HS1lbP_ypVpVYlJeiftxane/s1600/IMG_3751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqtJ3e_7pRQUyX-9ixJwcax0gVxwncF_pn-3gnO9E_GbKzYJ73Rx7YOA5NhPhG-1Kj1iDyf2I6hnkh84h4omYqJeNuTMlgtHF7tLNBX9ChWtGcdcI3yNX13HS1lbP_ypVpVYlJeiftxane/s320/IMG_3751.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pasta carbonara with seafood.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOEDwBihW4sf7if64Agb4H5vXfozOT16Gzjf8UspiBBkN8aLUq9XGjB5e1nxUnmtfGnH28iEoLYqmHmADNe_UK6V1BZg_xyj45nl-bQumAtuYwZjOqtUDaDPR1-xUNsmOj_nuwtQ45yF8/s1600/IMG_3754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOEDwBihW4sf7if64Agb4H5vXfozOT16Gzjf8UspiBBkN8aLUq9XGjB5e1nxUnmtfGnH28iEoLYqmHmADNe_UK6V1BZg_xyj45nl-bQumAtuYwZjOqtUDaDPR1-xUNsmOj_nuwtQ45yF8/s320/IMG_3754.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pro tip: always get dessert.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymHS236rnIVA6Yup2-ZioHRjvrkkLVyz6cc_pv5J7SK8vbMa_4hyN95sYXRHsvlrzfdZ7tNIFFGP8_QSM3EqdaaoYWbm_2QFClBZzaDe23oqL1T4PHwaZbKMIHh3a5t_TWuIS2_STBBhe/s1600/IMG_3756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymHS236rnIVA6Yup2-ZioHRjvrkkLVyz6cc_pv5J7SK8vbMa_4hyN95sYXRHsvlrzfdZ7tNIFFGP8_QSM3EqdaaoYWbm_2QFClBZzaDe23oqL1T4PHwaZbKMIHh3a5t_TWuIS2_STBBhe/s320/IMG_3756.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The owner's dog with a face only a mother could love.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqCeAc9ikWcrX3S541gZsWAFoGffU7LFVb8BVeJPqaAzGvZykH6Uag5BefR5nGzpTaV4RJ0tT-yciD1ERAOzGp8DZn-fGRhQM-X4qKGZQziqhOjrVqg5vPwMyC2cB7lpwFEu920DECpN1i/s1600/IMG_3757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqCeAc9ikWcrX3S541gZsWAFoGffU7LFVb8BVeJPqaAzGvZykH6Uag5BefR5nGzpTaV4RJ0tT-yciD1ERAOzGp8DZn-fGRhQM-X4qKGZQziqhOjrVqg5vPwMyC2cB7lpwFEu920DECpN1i/s320/IMG_3757.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Random.</div>
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Gibraltar</div>
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My time here was quite short. After sleeping in (after a late night gaming/music session onboard, no doubt) I jumped off the ship to grab a quick bit of internet time. Still had a chance to take a couple of snapshots, though. One of "The Rock" and a statue commemorating a wartime evacuation of Gibraltar. More investigation to come soon!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBO59MAl4lPNRyCqkO1U3-GvOc6lxQm3bYfCv3h5lg2sLE52dfylyzjKLzb3EtYSGm28sy7HMYtZ4Ckm0Ah5YWUKwh1sL0qpvyoLiwHOq75q47TZceEQcPgvc01HEhRsZk8nFIClgpWL3i/s1600/IMG_3759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBO59MAl4lPNRyCqkO1U3-GvOc6lxQm3bYfCv3h5lg2sLE52dfylyzjKLzb3EtYSGm28sy7HMYtZ4Ckm0Ah5YWUKwh1sL0qpvyoLiwHOq75q47TZceEQcPgvc01HEhRsZk8nFIClgpWL3i/s320/IMG_3759.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKFsG3X4nmMk3aSIrN6CED1tbtu7PDOtifJwEfmQSdMGEegdsb0pcHRmkWD23CAWSru94AT4E6w8rXA1G5-b87mqfdoPMDrBi9qECFthQ5kmsD5dmacDzV657fPspu5rEUeTIA3D5A7O3l/s1600/IMG_3761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKFsG3X4nmMk3aSIrN6CED1tbtu7PDOtifJwEfmQSdMGEegdsb0pcHRmkWD23CAWSru94AT4E6w8rXA1G5-b87mqfdoPMDrBi9qECFthQ5kmsD5dmacDzV657fPspu5rEUeTIA3D5A7O3l/s320/IMG_3761.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pretty sure they mean the evacuation of Gibraltar. I'm </div>
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this is not a statue of "Gibraltarians" being evacuated.</div>
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Trust me, no one wants to see that. Think about it.</div>
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Southampton</div>
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Not much to say here. I wandered around aimlessly and unsupervised in port for about 3 hours during my first turnaround here. Apparently, I went the wrong direction when I left the ship and therefore missed most of the shopping and internet offerings here. Things were so bad, I ate at T.G.I Fridays. Yikes. However, I did think this picture of the port entrance (with the cloud break in the background) was pretty cool. Snapped this pic with my iPhone 5. #shamelessnamedrop</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWE7kmrWFXkW0HTdKUtwSYb44cnFH6dcYUWiuBps_74wPkg_kRuA94Jaa4EY9SJ_-qW1H94pL1Rt29C3Oos8PPmzSRR-Ga3G88ytgIomKAdsssjiJlLG3oD_w59hx2hYy1YXKQSLZNThfJ/s1600/IMG_0514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWE7kmrWFXkW0HTdKUtwSYb44cnFH6dcYUWiuBps_74wPkg_kRuA94Jaa4EY9SJ_-qW1H94pL1Rt29C3Oos8PPmzSRR-Ga3G88ytgIomKAdsssjiJlLG3oD_w59hx2hYy1YXKQSLZNThfJ/s320/IMG_0514.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-51252621328644937272013-08-23T03:22:00.000-07:002013-08-23T03:22:50.561-07:00Quick hits - Tales from the European Trail<div class="p1">
A mixture of old and new experiences awaited me upon (re) sign-on to the Adventure of the Seas. Obviously, having spent 6.5 months here on my previous contract, I know my way around. Finding my cabin, all the training meetings, rehearsal spaces, and dining areas are as simple as a little refresher course. New to me was signing on a ship and seeing familiar faces. Some people who were here during my last contract are still here. Not just musicians, either. I mean, moving back in with my roommate and having most of the orchestra be the same as before is great. Definitely a treat to play with musicians that you know. Old friendships are rekindled quickly and former routines quickly become re-established. On the other hand, it's interesting to have share the "recognition up-nod" with officers, mess attendants, cruise staff, blue boys, stage staff, and many other departments. Ship life is temporary and unique, so, it's interesting to return to a ship and have it feel habitual and comfortable. Broken in like an old pair of shoes.</div>
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In addition to feeling accustomed to my surroundings, I learned within a few days of signing on that 3 people who I've worked with before on previous contracts will be joining us on Adventure soon. This is great news. As excited as I am to meet new people, it's going to be terrific to get back together with these folks.</div>
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I'm working my way back into my workout routine. Well, that's not really true. I'm not working my way back at all. I decided to get back on the Body For Life program. I'm in my 4th week and feeling pretty good. The workout portion of the program is easy to do. I'm literally 1 minute from the gym. Roll out of bed, step in the elevator, walk in the gym, commence getting ripped. The hard part for me is the diet regimen. I'm not allowed to bring food back to my room, especially fruit or protein sources. It's a fine line, but, I'm really not supposed to. The mess is literally on the other end of the ship and my eating schedule doesn't really align with the mess schedule. Not aligned enough in order to eat 6 times per day as the program recommends, anyway. However, I'm sticking to this as best as I can. I have a calendar, I'm journaling my workouts, and working towards goals. We'll see how this goes. I have a big reward planned for me at the end of this rainbow.</div>
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Elmore Leonard died this past Tuesday. He is one of my favorite authors. No doubt, his connection to Michigan and the city of Detroit was part of that, but, he is clearly recognized as one of the giants of modern fiction. Especially, in the realm of crime fiction. Ernest Hemingway was his idol and after Leonard started his career writing short stories in the Western genre, he moved to crime novels. His crime writing, largely set in Detroit and Florida (or some combination of the two, as in Out Of Sight, for example) is some of the best I've ever read. Leonard was known by readers and other authors alike for being a master of dialogue and for his concise style. I enjoyed those parts of his writing, but, to me his greatest achievement would be in the development of characters that lived on the fringe of society, but, were made into protagonists. As the reader, you ended up rooting for the loan sharks, mob muscle men, and bank robbers of Leonard's world. He was famous for "trying to leave out the part [of books] that readers skip" and, reportedly, "would rather be writing than doing anything else…except maybe watching the Tigers." You'll be missed, Dutch.</div>
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Recently, during a late evening/early morning listening session onboard, a few musicians and myself were watching a DVD of a concert featuring Duke Ellington. All of us were marveling at the musicality and swing of the classic band. They are the BEST, for sure. There was one song, that I had trouble listening to, however. It's called Solitude. Probably the saddest and most relatable lyrics (for me anyway) of the genre. Check it out. Those who know me will get this. The song hits so close to home for me. Still a ways to go, I guess.</div>
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Being back onboard is not without its interesting and testing moments that drive me to sarcasm. A few of these include: </div>
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1) Yes, instead of using headphones like a normal person, please play your music super loud on your phone/iPod. Everything sounds like crap on those tiny speakers, including your Caribbean-DubStep-Mashup-Rap-Merengue. </div>
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2) Just go ahead and walk down the middle of the hallway/sidewalk. I'm not, like, 6'9" and trying to dodge hi-fogs, doorways, and bulkheads or anything. This also includes sidewalks off the ship. Is this a European thing?</div>
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3) This just in, the gym is apparently a playground. Being based out of Southampton also includes packs of roving pre-tween riffraff in the gym crowding around machines and watching each other go through the motions and play around on the weight equipment. Some of us are actually here to do real work, kids. </div>
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Thanks for listening, everybody. I feel better now. </div>
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Recently, during another late night hang session in the MD cabin, a Johnny Carson DVD was played. Believe it or not, it was my first experience with that show. I found it…hilarious. Late Night onboard with the King of Late Night. Yes, please. More of that, thanks.</div>
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If you aren't watching The Newsroom on HBO, you should be. It's the latest Aaron Sorkin vehicle and it's awesome. Sure, it shares a lot of characteristics with other Sorkin shows (The West Wing, Sportsnight, Studio Sixty on the Sunset Strip, etc), but, those are good things. Smart characters. Fast, witty, intelligent dialogue. Relevant stories. It's a show that expects a level of return and investment from the audience. That's how TV should be. Funny, dramatic, and challenging.</div>
Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-88518607106364418972013-07-26T00:58:00.002-07:002013-07-26T00:59:13.377-07:00Some more vacation nonsense<div class="p1">
My friend Craig Moore is a guitar player. A true shredder and Eddie VH disciple.</div>
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My friend Brent Hopper is a hair metal fan. A true student of the genre.</div>
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I'm a fan of hair metal and of Craig's guitar playing. Inevitably, when the 3 of us get together, nonsense and nostalgia for a simpler, happier time in rock music occurs. This time I have video evidence. You may not understand it, but, I think you'll appreciate it. Enjoy!</div>
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https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/60443309/Voltron%20Jam%20Session.mov</div>
Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-90663566390575785952013-07-26T00:51:00.001-07:002013-07-26T00:59:01.268-07:00Chapter 3<div class="p1">
So...that happened.</div>
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Another vacation has come to a close. I know, I know…it seems to most people that I live on vacation working as a cruise ship musician, but, I assure you it's not exactly like it seems. Don't get me wrong - it's a great job. However, even ship life has more structure than my most recent vacation. I've spent the last 10 weeks on a soul cleansing, diet wrecking, life enriching vacation experience. Without a doubt I've endured some of the best escapades of my life over the past 2 and a half months. To try and list them all would take WAY too long. I actually have a list, but, it's just not really practical. What I can tell you are some stats:</div>
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Over the last 2.5 months I've…</div>
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<ul>
<li>spent many hours with my main man, Ted Oberlander</li>
<li>spent a lot of quality time with my Mom, Joan Williams</li>
<li>traveled over 6,000 miles (only 1,900 of that was on a trip to NYC/NewJersey/Boston…and I didn't count train ride from NYC to Boston and back), most of which in my car</li>
<li>played lots of golf</li>
<li>eaten lots of terrific meals</li>
<li>tasted some refreshing micro (and…lets face it…plenty of macro) brews</li>
<li>played some music (jazz in New York City, rock in Wayland, Michigan, salsa in Glen Arbor, MI and Indianapolis, IN)</li>
<li>heard some music</li>
<li>wrote some music</li>
<li>taken the Graduate Record Exam</li>
<li>gone to 4 baseball games (2 at Comerica Park in Detroit and 2 at Victory Field in Indianapolis)</li>
<li>experienced my 20 year (!!!) high school reunion</li>
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And…that's just a partial list. The severely 'abridged' recap of my Vacay 2013. </div>
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During my time on land I spent a significant amount of time at my Mom's place in Traverse City, Michigan and at the home of Craig and Adrienne Moore in Noblesville, Indiana. In fact, the Moore's became my unofficial hosts for this vacation, especially after a family emergency developed late that delayed my return to the ship. THANK YOU SO MUCH for your generous hospitality everyone! Looking forward to repaying the favor someday!</div>
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The most important part of this time was, once again, the people in my life. I tried to keep track of how many people that I met up with over this vacation and I stopped counting at 50. At the risk of sounding selfish/self-centered - I have a spectacularly large group of distinct, unique, and incredibly loving friends and family. I'm unbelievably appreciative of all of you. You continue to astonish me. Opening your homes and allowing me to crash on your couches, floors, and guest rooms. Affording me the luxury of constant WiFi, food, and cable TV. For doing what's necessary to maintain a friendship over extended time apart and massive distances. At the end of my last contract on Adventure I realized that I had recovered some of my ability and trust to be available for friendships and relationships. Vacay 2013 only served to reinforce that ability in me.</div>
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I'm looking forward to getting back on Adventure for a number of reasons. Our itinerary is phenomenal. I'll be spending time in Paris, Cannes, Pisa, Rome, Venice, Barcelona, Malaga, Gibraltar, Iceland, Norway, and England until Thanksgiving. Then we cross back to San Juan, Puerto Rico for our Caribbean run of some of the most beautiful beaches and island destinations in the world. I'll be onboard Adventure of the Seas until February 16, 2014 and am anticipating an awesome time. Most of the musicians in the orchestra onboard will be the same as before, so it will be great fun to play with them again. Also, I'll be joined midway through the contract by a trumpet player with whom I've worked before on another ship. Should be a sensational time.</div>
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This contract will be a little different for me, though. I've been living in the "now" for almost 2 years. Doing what I want, when I want. Working on healing and taking great care not to "should" on myself. Not making plans of any kind and just enjoying life and experiences as they come. While I will continue to embrace life in the "this is what I'm doing right now" mode, I feel like I have recovered the potential to make some plans. I have some goals for myself over the next 7 months that are healthy and worthwhile. I'm going to work hard to achieve them. When I do, I plan to enjoy some rewards at the end that I've already set up for myself. I'm not pressuring myself to accomplish these goals in any way. I've learned that one thing is true about plans: they change. However, it will be nice to have a little more direction in my life. It's been a while. </div>
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So, here I go again. But, a major step in the Walkabout wouldn't be complete without some iMovie magic. Follow the link below to a 7 minute video of some of the highlights from my vacation. It's not really possible to capture all the good times that I had in a short video, but, I think this does a pretty good job. Thanks for reading - stay in touch!</div>
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https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/60443309/Vacay%202013.m4v</div>
Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-75704015133039507252013-07-25T10:05:00.001-07:002013-07-25T10:05:48.403-07:00A Remembrance: Monday, July 22, 2013<div class="p1">
Lyman O'Dell Williams, PhD died this morning at approximately 8:00 am.</div>
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I believe I first met Lyman Williams when I was a very young boy. He was a museum instructor at Interlochen Arts Camp and almost assuredly taught me to tie knots, build campfires, and make sassafras tea during my formative summers in Northern Michigan. The details of that time are shrouded in the dimness of my early childhood memories, but, those that do appear when I look back on those times are very pleasant.</div>
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Lyman re-entered my life when I was in high school. My parents had divorced a few years before (vague, I know, but most of my memories of being a teenager are light pencil sketches as a matter of self preservation) and I was living in Ludington, Michigan. My Mom had met Lyman and was ready to re-marry and enter a new phase in her life. Walking into the Pizza Hut on Ludington Avenue that afternoon to the introduction of her new companion, I didn't know what to think. To be fair, I didn't have much on my mind in those adolescent years other than myself (some would say not much has changed), so it was going to be tough to win me over. Lyman did instantly though, responding to my self-serving and grasping quip, "You know your name is a soda flavor?" He just looked at me with the kindest pair of eyes I'd ever seen and softly smiled. This, I do remember.</div>
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Even though he was my step-father, I never lived with him as a child. Even though it would not be entirely accurate to describe his relationship to me as a father figure, it's also completely wide of the mark to say that I learned nothing from him. In fact, I learned a great deal from Lyman and will miss him dearly.</div>
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I will miss his intelligence. A former college professor, he was always exceedingly patient and ready to impart some of his long gathered geological knowledge upon any who would listen. He also read the newspaper every day. An actual paper newspaper. A trait deserving of respect, to be sure.</div>
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I will remember his love of pancakes. Lord Williams (an affectionate nickname) loved his pancakes and would eat them at any time for any meal. I concur and can totally relate!</div>
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I will miss his companionship with my Mom. They found each other at the right time and he helped them both navigate through some tricky life territory.</div>
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I will miss his bagpiping. Even though he was not a trained musician, Lyman was a bagpiper. I can remember him practicing at the house when I came home for visits as well as his many performances with the Grand Traverse Pipe and Drums.</div>
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I will miss his character. Lyman is one of the most beautiful people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. I know people misuse the following italicized word all the time, but, I <i>literally</i> never heard him speak harshly to or about anyone. Ever. His sweet disposition, gentle temperament, and honest presence are incredibly valuable traits and ones that I truly admire. Without a doubt, one of the most considerate and genuine people I have ever met. As the colloquialism goes, Lyman was "good people."</div>
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Lyman is a role model not only for me, but, for others as well. He lived a long, healthy, and active life. His death was peaceful and he was comfortable during the last part of the process. During his last days he was surrounded by many family and friends who came to pay their respects. I feel lucky to have had the opportunity of knowing Lyman. You will be missed, sir. I love you.</div>
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Lyman at his retirement party from Interlochen.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-85395206981090084492013-05-07T08:31:00.001-07:002013-05-09T06:48:29.901-07:00An American Trombonist In London<br />
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I spent two nights in England between signing off the ship and flying home to The States. After an overnight in Southampton (sign off port), I took the train to London to hang out for the day. Spent the day with Henry Saxby (a musician who had signed off with me on May 5), his girlfriend, and a couple of his friends who live in London. Henry used to have a steady gig at at piano bar in London and his friends still run the place. It was fun talking to them and learning a little bit about running a music venue from the inside. Nice people and we had a great afternoon at a pub called The Blue Anchor right on the Thames River. </div>
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The terrific weather continued into an absolutely GORGEOUS day on May 7. Some of my friends from the ship came to London for the morning. We met up with a local friend, Jamie, and he showed us all around London. So many highlights, so many hotspots. It was a spectacular morning. Exemplary weather. Flawless company. We saw Big Ben, Parliament, Westminster Abbey, ate English breakfast, saw Buckingham Palace, checked out Trafalgar Square, toured the West End, visited Picadilly Square, shopped for outrageous souvenirs, visited the saxophone store to beat all saxophone stores, and even had time for a proper English ale in a pub. I just wish this could've lasted longer.</div>
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The pictures below tell some of the tale. Some great shots here. The weather…the locations…all amazing. To be fair, however, I'd voluntarily go to an economics lecture if it meant I could spend time with these folks. We all exchanged hugs in the underground train before parting for the last time. Walking off that carriage without them was extraordinarily difficult for me. These are great fuckin' people. Some of them I'll see again very soon. Hopefully, it won't be too long before I see the others. I'm <span class="s1"><b>really</b></span> going to miss them.</div>
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A bridge on the Thames near The Blue Anchor.</div>
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Fish and chips. Had to do it!</div>
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View of the Thames from The Blue Anchor.</div>
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The London Eye.</div>
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L to R: Marissa, Sam, me, Beau, Suzie, Shannon, Dustin</div>
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"Hey kids! Big Ben. Parliament!"</div>
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St. Margaret's Church in Westminster's Abbey.</div>
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Buckingham Palace.</div>
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Awkward single photos.</div>
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Me and Shannon.</div>
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The gang.</div>
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The girls.</div>
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A guard.</div>
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Flower garden near Buckingham Palace.</div>
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Trafalgar Square monument.</div>
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Deep down, you can tell the Shannon is a Detroit Lions fan.</div>
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Trafalgar Square.</div>
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West End. I want to come back for a show (or two).</div>
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Beau and Dustin derpin' out in the sax store.</div>
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Yes. That's Dustin playing a contrabass saxophone.</div>
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And yes. He played "Careless Whisper." #derp</div>
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A Detroit Lion in London.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgClB40cPqLM8cwLWQlKSs4tAvaXEa0htmk_qin0gxsliFwzOiHoAcTU7INmYIgr7UwnuOIFYm_zykT6RmpO2wblqTeSxmGUFDGzK2l_4HMOi55DGet0ZTuQ5Z6tqSCP0srcGB2qRWt0AuU/s1600/472846_10151644690208784_556803560_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgClB40cPqLM8cwLWQlKSs4tAvaXEa0htmk_qin0gxsliFwzOiHoAcTU7INmYIgr7UwnuOIFYm_zykT6RmpO2wblqTeSxmGUFDGzK2l_4HMOi55DGet0ZTuQ5Z6tqSCP0srcGB2qRWt0AuU/s320/472846_10151644690208784_556803560_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Good friends in the pub.</div>
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Still have public telephone booths in London.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-27465331618727256582013-05-06T14:55:00.001-07:002013-05-08T16:14:03.830-07:00All Good Things Must Come To An End<br />
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Well, it's over. My second contract as a cruise ship musician, that is. I'll be heading back to Adventure of the Seas in July for another contract, but, for now I'm at the beginning of a long and well deserved vacation. </div>
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Ending a contract is always bittersweet. I've written about the temporary nature of being a crew member before, but, it's important enough to mention again. Especially in this current instance, the awkward feelings of goodbyes are different and palpable in a different way than the last time. My Majesty contract (March - September 2012) was amazing for me. I had an unbelievable time onboard. Loved playing music for a living. Really lucked out with a couple of terrific roommates, saw some beautiful places, and made some great friends along the way. The Adventure contract (October 13, 2012 - May 5, 2013) was the same in many ways, but, felt different to me…probably because I've made a lot of progress as a person since March 2012. Majesty was mostly about getting out of town. Away from painful experiences and people who had done hurtful things to me. I still have the scars from those events, but, those wounds have mended more now. I know this because on the Adventure contract, I was able to become more invested in relationships with other people this time around. By the end of my time on Adventure, I was able to understand that my abilities for personal interaction and trusting others were really starting to get back to a more normal level.</div>
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This is made even more noticeable by the fact that it was an intensely tough goodbye this time on my sign off. Not that it hasn't been before or that I don't miss my friends from Majesty, but, this ship was different…and I'm pretty sure that difference was me. For one thing, the cast (singers and dancers) signed on about 1 week after I did in Spain. We work together daily and I developed very close friendships with many of them over the past 6 months. I wasn't part of a cast changeover this time midway thru my contract, so, I've been around the same group of people for the entire length this time. </div>
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The other thing is that given the passage of time, I'm now able to take part in friendships in a more intimate way because I'm getting closer to righting the ship of my life and personality, so to speak. As my good friend Jamie Newnham says, "You're available for more of that now." <u>Well said, that man!</u></div>
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In any case, I'm off the ship now and spending a few days in London doing some sightseeing before I head back to the States. Again, as much as I'm looking forward to my vacation it was very difficult to leave the Adventure. Nothing lasts forever and even if I was still onboard AD people would be signing off and new people signing on…the continuing fluctuation of personnel would roll on. Things would change with or without me anyway. What I can say is that I'm happy to have had the opportunity to share experiences with all my friends onboard. I'm thrilled to have met all of you and hope that we get the chance to see each other again sometime soon. </div>
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A dancer onboard and one of my good friends, Kieran, said something to me the other night that I won't ever forget. It was wise, cryptic, gloomy, and gratifying all at the same time. He said, "This group of people here. This will never happen again. We'll never all be together again at the same time." How true. Made me recognize how special it was to be a part of it while I had the chance. He's right, we probably won't all be together all at the same time again. Ever. Individually, I know I'll see some of these people again. But, the circumstance of all of us together in the same place at the same time is most likely over.</div>
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I'm not very good at saying goodbye. It's certainly not my favorite thing to do. Just like at the end of last contract, I offer a peek into my life for the last 6 months. Just paste the link below into your favorite browser and the video slideshow should start playing automatically. It's a big file (over 20 minutes long), so, probably best to be viewed on a high speed connection.</div>
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Until next time, everybody. Stay in touch and safe travels. I miss you all already!</div>
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Walkabout: Chapter Two</div>
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https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/60443309/Walkabout%20Chapter%20Two.m4v</div>
Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-51086496198422294042013-05-06T06:01:00.003-07:002013-05-06T06:01:32.003-07:00The Gas Station in the Atlantic
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To make use of an overly used cliché bloggers line…"It's been a long time since I've posted." This is true. However, I haven't felt the need until now. We finished up the Caribbean season and are in the middle of a crossing to the other side of the Atlantic. I guess there's some stuff to write about there, but, basically it's the same trip that I made in November of 2012…just in the opposite direction. There's more to be posted about the last month and a half of my contract regarding people, places, and more people, I guess. I'm going to wait until I arrive in England to start those posts, though. What's important now in my mind is our stop at The Azores after 5 straight sea days.</div>
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The Azores are Portugese islands that are located about 2/3rds of the way across the Atlantic from North America to Europe. Formed by volcanos, these islands are famous for seafood, sugar beets, and a pair of inland lakes surrounded by legend. The lakes were actually formed in mountain craters created by collapsed volcanos and are now filled with fresh collected rain water. The twin lakes, located directly adjacent to one another, are colored differently and are located at the bottom of a beautiful valley. Since it was our (and likely mine) only stop during our Atlantic crossing, a group of friends and I decided to take a guided tour of the island and the famous lakes.</div>
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After an amazing morning and early afternoon walking tour and meal, we boarded the tour bus and took off for the afternoon. The tour was perfect for me. A modern bus with air conditioning and comfortable seats. A short tour with a focused goal: to see the lakes and get back to the ship on time for sail away. The tour was awesome. I saw some incredible views and got another chance to hang with some amazing people, some of whom I won't see again for a long time. More on that later and the transformation of this contract and it's effect on the Walkabout and my personal journey. For now, enjoy some terrific views that I had the opportunity to capture with my camera and iPad. You know…sometimes it's true…I have the greatest job in the world.</div>
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View from the first photo stop on the tour</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU3vVyrwvGWraJMaTkZUZVncEbGJBFnRePsKdVW-X4KSucsOxBnJ3_R0lmCsjOIPXDDcZmiIGa5VQ4JboIRtuKKo-7wjgE0y1Vd-ixQONFjZuIgUs2JKvxhQupvSCWP2LAa_afhkclZOFr/s1600/IMG_3594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU3vVyrwvGWraJMaTkZUZVncEbGJBFnRePsKdVW-X4KSucsOxBnJ3_R0lmCsjOIPXDDcZmiIGa5VQ4JboIRtuKKo-7wjgE0y1Vd-ixQONFjZuIgUs2JKvxhQupvSCWP2LAa_afhkclZOFr/s320/IMG_3594.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6AzfiRUMftELhBXLPTEYKJHt-SZbPkOqNSXd2aiCqo0S-IscjUzURImYbDvCBMF4iM7eStgtb3X2qPwHo5NhlpBhYE-XJU_vbyrHp1koQu815ol7fo3DCRvi88ssV9GPtH5WvorPAhf7j/s1600/IMG_3595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6AzfiRUMftELhBXLPTEYKJHt-SZbPkOqNSXd2aiCqo0S-IscjUzURImYbDvCBMF4iM7eStgtb3X2qPwHo5NhlpBhYE-XJU_vbyrHp1koQu815ol7fo3DCRvi88ssV9GPtH5WvorPAhf7j/s320/IMG_3595.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Group shot</div>
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The girls: Marissa, Suzie, and Shannon</div>
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The Hook 'Em Horns</div>
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Twin lakes. Legend says that they were formed from</div>
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the tears of a priest and princess crying while </div>
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saying goodbye.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2CLnzTb0Rjj_PtiHMpyOkKt6TkIsfaayEj37qqtm86Rhmx6TEijswPgnI1RuLJzPCG6sTRjtqKDPsE7DEdLJvtxl_kqVYgtBZpV_SMieeX8s44vzCX-Z69Qpg5z9O-qa-3iOSR0ugeIP/s1600/IMG_9469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2CLnzTb0Rjj_PtiHMpyOkKt6TkIsfaayEj37qqtm86Rhmx6TEijswPgnI1RuLJzPCG6sTRjtqKDPsE7DEdLJvtxl_kqVYgtBZpV_SMieeX8s44vzCX-Z69Qpg5z9O-qa-3iOSR0ugeIP/s320/IMG_9469.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Dude Pic. Sam, me, Beau, and Dustin.</div>
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Group pic in front of the lakes. What a great day!</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-88151565218415686002013-03-05T08:23:00.001-08:002013-03-05T08:23:52.473-08:00Literally chilling out
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My good friend and production singer, Jamie, had a birthday yesterday. To celebrate this most joyous of occasions, another crew excursion was organized. This time, we were in St. Thomas and decided to hit one of the top tourist attractions there called Magic Ice.</div>
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Magic Ice is referred to as an "ice bar" sometimes. A building with very cold temperatures, ice sculptures, ice slide, and a bar made of ice serving drinks in glasses made of ice. Definitely a different slant for someone living in the Caribbean.</div>
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I haven't been cold in over a year, so, this was a really fun excursion for me. I spent the first 5 minutes or so of the time in the bar with my coat off. I got totally cooled down and it felt great. Almost as great as heading back outside into the warm sun of St. Thomas and warming back up again. </div>
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Happy Birthday, Jamie. Here's to many more!</div>
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Me and Jamie.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjZ5O4bmgQwFTa_AldGHmJXMb64ngLJUVBdh87NCWijeZ6syyR4i7Q6hm-k9uuYemnYj51vE4Mt69jDLIDwTqQdbSVviNvVaK3ROiKotilzQsC9wsjgg0FYPVqppA0Vyv4dimx190Gsw1/s1600/IMG_3502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjZ5O4bmgQwFTa_AldGHmJXMb64ngLJUVBdh87NCWijeZ6syyR4i7Q6hm-k9uuYemnYj51vE4Mt69jDLIDwTqQdbSVviNvVaK3ROiKotilzQsC9wsjgg0FYPVqppA0Vyv4dimx190Gsw1/s320/IMG_3502.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The bus ride over. Obligatory pic.</div>
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Jamie's ready to enjoy his day!</div>
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Apparently there's a lot of "fingers in the air" pictures here.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSsCMJ25u0pBh3mzUC3xGOWAKUyL6FQQLSxqVOKcvrg8YKK24QnayEhJL9jzwJVojNXbU9jztjD6KDkn3lzs5UaTCWxmoZ7Clxya_lGPSWyMRlUJVlR_FU2gIsZfwZ1k8Y9xN_1-Nk9LEL/s1600/IMG_3509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSsCMJ25u0pBh3mzUC3xGOWAKUyL6FQQLSxqVOKcvrg8YKK24QnayEhJL9jzwJVojNXbU9jztjD6KDkn3lzs5UaTCWxmoZ7Clxya_lGPSWyMRlUJVlR_FU2gIsZfwZ1k8Y9xN_1-Nk9LEL/s320/IMG_3509.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Partial group photo.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwdPOcPBFOHaMMV-9UcFvwfoV7q7HOV_BCQf6nZFvqrUtpD6h2g78p0CfgL9hsHyWHCqf5TNbKGXBzfteYHCG60fCRJ3W0meT-VjSDEiZvmbKRrxqzu6bX0lURTx0SHAXOid0Zy4jgOOLB/s1600/IMG_3513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwdPOcPBFOHaMMV-9UcFvwfoV7q7HOV_BCQf6nZFvqrUtpD6h2g78p0CfgL9hsHyWHCqf5TNbKGXBzfteYHCG60fCRJ3W0meT-VjSDEiZvmbKRrxqzu6bX0lURTx0SHAXOid0Zy4jgOOLB/s320/IMG_3513.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Rockin' ice sculpture.</div>
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Creepy ice sculpture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvzqFq1axsxozxK3v9jNrkoAzXw3pXTK-0X3Ob09HrFVb_QhrsCtpJyCOiPn7NkY50XEpkqjDe0LMZ3aPwNMaJ4_mdpIOUgP-pDUcskcRT_cE0E7LreBcvBQTdwceqvFd8esnBGuWjdCJO/s1600/IMG_3516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvzqFq1axsxozxK3v9jNrkoAzXw3pXTK-0X3Ob09HrFVb_QhrsCtpJyCOiPn7NkY50XEpkqjDe0LMZ3aPwNMaJ4_mdpIOUgP-pDUcskcRT_cE0E7LreBcvBQTdwceqvFd8esnBGuWjdCJO/s320/IMG_3516.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sam and Kieran.</div>
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Kristian and John.</div>
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Me with ice Santa.</div>
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Polar bear.</div>
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Kristy and Kieran.</div>
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Me and Henry.</div>
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More birthday pics.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-56368259601151520452013-03-05T08:15:00.001-08:002013-03-05T08:15:06.653-08:00Excursions
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One benefit to life as a cruise ship crew member is the travel opportunities. Granted, we visit the same ports over and over again for months, but, this lifestyle does lend itself to experiences that are not necessarily available on land. In addition to basically living in beautiful vacation destinations, occasionally the right set of circumstances puts me in a position to partake in shore excursions offered by the cruise ship at a discounted rate. Good times.</div>
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Last week there was a crew excursion on a catamaran in Aruba. It involved sailing, snorkeling, sunbathing, music, and an open bar. Attendees were most of the production cast, ice cast, and a few musicians. We hopped off the ship in the morning, took a bus ride to our catamaran, lathered up with some sunscreen, and sailed out into the clear blue water. We anchored close to shore for some shallow water snorkeling. I saw hundreds of beautiful fish, a starfish, and two octopi. </div>
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A quick aside: most of my friends onboard are singers, dancers, ice skaters, and other performers. A group largely made up of tremendous athletes and people whose job requires that they stay in excellent shape. Going to the beach can be a little intimidating with these folks. It's kind of like hanging out at a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition photo shoot.</div>
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After a short sail we anchored near a historic shipwreck site. A German freighter had an explosion onboard due to engine problems and sank very close to shore in the early 1940's. The water depth where the ship sank is only 55 feet and it's one of the only places on earth where one can get close to such a huge wreck without the need for scuba gear. I, of course, was terrified. Not only was it open water snorkeling (which means strong currents), but, the deeper the water…the bigger the ocean creatures. Not to mention that I find shipwrecks pretty creepy generally speaking. In any case, I overcame my fears (I'm not kidding about this…I nearly had a panic attack when I first jumped in the water) and participated. I even held my breath and swam down a few meters to get a closer look. Overall, it was an exhilarating experience. Hey, what can I say? Sometimes it's fun to be scared.</div>
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The party bus.</div>
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Kieran following directions on his glasses.</div>
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Pre-sail debrief with the staff (where's the bar again?)</div>
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My sun protection plan often involves a t-shirt, hat, and sunglasses.</div>
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Dustin (alto sax), Beau (tenor sax), and me. I don't tan well.</div>
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Me with JoJo (dancer) and Henry (piano).</div>
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Beau and Suzie. Cute picture.</div>
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Kim is the aerialist with the ice cast. I told you there were</div>
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tremendous athletes onboard!</div>
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Me overcoming snorkeling fears.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-49326601333377869692013-01-29T09:46:00.002-08:002013-01-29T09:46:39.169-08:00Quick Hits in the New Year
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So…New Years Eve is usually a fun night for me as a musician. When I'm lucky enough to have a gig on NYE, I enjoy that because I get to party, play music, and get paid for it. If I don't have a gig, I usually am hanging out with good people anyway, so, the holiday is enjoyable. New Years Eve on the ship was great. I had the best of both worlds. First, we played an extra set on the Promenade (main area in the ship where all the shops are) and counted down the time until 2013. It was a huge party almost everyone on the ship there (I'm talking about literally thousands of people). Awesome. We played some funk arrangements and I did my best Fred Wesley impression. At midnight, we drank champagne and I realized that I was at a gig while also surrounded by all my friends. The party continued in Studio B (onboard ice rink) where there was drinking and dancing. We continued with an after party in the crew bar. The evening/morning came to a close having snacks and watching a DVD of the Ellington band with several close friends. Good stuff. I can truly say I'm damn glad to be here.</div>
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I turned 37 on January 17, 2013 and had the pleasure of my Mom's company for the cruise over my birthday. We had a great time onboard enjoying St. Croix, St. Maarten, Barbados and more. She got me an M-22 shirt for my birthday as well as a massage up in the Shipshape Spa. We saw the Murder Mystery Dinner Theater show. She came to all my shows and met all my friends. We took a tour of Old and New San Juan and basically got some great hangout time. Ended out the week with a trip to Crane Beach in Barbados to get some sun and boogie-boarding. Terrific. What a treat!</div>
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Photographic evidence of fun:</div>
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Murder Mystery Dinner Theater.</div>
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Representin' Northern Michigan!</div>
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St. Croix with Adventure in the background.</div>
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L to R: Mom, Me, Beau Fleming (tenor sax), Jamie Newnham (vocalist)</div>
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Dustin Bear (alto sax). Murder Mystery night.</div>
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A smoothie in Antigua.</div>
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L to R: Shannon McMillan (vocalist), Mom, Dustin, Me.</div>
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Crane Beach, Barbados.</div>
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Crane Beach, Barbados.</div>
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Lunch in Barbados.</div>
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Crane Beach entrance. Only entrance to beach is</div>
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over the stone circular walkway. </div>
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Me and Jaime catching big waves! </div>
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Mom catching some rays in Barbados.</div>
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The boogie-board crew (L to R: me, Jaime, Chris Joodi (trumpet),</div>
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Beau, Krisitan Brooks (dancer) at Crane Beach.</div>
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Mom enjoying a Carib...the official beer </div>
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of the Caribbean! (I practically live on the stuff).</div>
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Crane Beach view from our lunch spot.</div>
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Another shot of Crane Beach.</div>
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Mom relaxing at Crane Beach.</div>
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Profile pic at Crane Beach. That is a </div>
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CRAZY shirt.</div>
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Old San Juan. Castillo San Cristobal.</div>
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Castillo San Cristobal museum.</div>
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A view from the fort in Old San Juan.</div>
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Main courtyard of the fort.</div>
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A lookout post.</div>
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Photo opportunity in Old San Juan.</div>
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View from the top of the fort in Old San Juan.</div>
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St. Croix. What, what?</div>
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The beach in St. Maarten.</div>
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After the Old/New San Juan tour in PR. End of a </div>
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great week.</div>
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For the first time in almost a year, I have accepted a bit of responsibility into my life. The Music Director (manager of all 20+ onboard musicians) is taking his vacation in about 5 weeks. He asked me to fill in for him while he is gone and I said yes. It is only a short vacation fill, but, I had to extend my contract to do it. I will be with the Adventure until May 5, 2013 and will be serving as MD for the last 6-7 weeks. This past week I started shadowing Kris (current MD) around and learning from the master Jedi. We'll see how it works out, but, I like it so far.</div>
Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-19387066157749235892013-01-04T11:20:00.000-08:002013-01-04T11:23:44.768-08:00New Year Message2012 was an eventful year for me. My life turned upside down and then somewhat righted while enjoying my Walkabout. Here's what I thought about as the clock ticked to midnight on January 1, 2013.<br />
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<li>I've spent the majority of my time in the past year wearing sandals as opposed to socks and shoes.</li>
<li>It pays major dividends to have a bottle opener on my key chain.</li>
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Hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable holiday season. Looking forward to staying in touch throughout 2013. Thanks for reading!</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-12418857800798793292013-01-04T11:12:00.000-08:002013-01-04T11:12:30.821-08:00Xmas 2012
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I'm a big fan of the show "Entourage" that used to air on HBO. Created by Mark Wahlberg (and loosely based on his life), the show describes the experience of a young actor rocketing to super stardom in Hollywood after a role in a blockbuster movie. The show also details the friendship and family bond between Vince (the star) and his "Entourage" made up of his brother and his childhood friends from the East coast. Vince is determined to make it or break it in Hollywood his way...with his friends around him. What he really cares about is his "Entourage" not movie super stardom. He'd be happy back in the pizza parlor in Queens as long as he's with his friends.</div>
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Early in the first season of the show (Entourage ran for 8 seasons on HBO), Vince does an appearance on the Jimmy Kimmel late night talk show. The interview and the entire evening's festivities for the Entourage is an impressive success. The episode culminates with the group of friends watching themselves on the Jimmy Kimmel Show, smoking weed, drinking, smiling, laughing, and basking in the glory of an awesome night spent with friends. The moment was so eloquently summed up by the character Johnny Drama with this famous line, "Great night, man. Great fuckin' night!"</div>
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This past Christmas I had a similar experience with a group of friends from the ship. We spent December 25th in St. Maarten - land of amazing beaches. There are way too many details to describe about how marvelous the day was. However, the short version involves gingerbread flavored coffee in the morning, playing for the arrival of Santa Claus with a 2nd line version of "Here Comes Santa Claus" on the Promenade of the ship, a van rental and trip to a secluded beach, burgers, beer, pictures, swimming, and most of all laughter throughout. After we returned to the ship there was a gift exchange, two shows with the guest entertainer, a great dinner, blueberry pie for dessert, and a Christmas crew party on the back deck with free beer. </div>
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Those that know me understand that I'm not a big holiday guy. A lot of people on the ship struggle with being away from home for the holidays, but, it didn't really bother me that much. However, I have to say that this was one of my best Christmas celebrations ever. Certainly contributed to me enjoying my holiday at sea. Drama was right. "Great fuckin' day."</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-50580300939900095992012-12-09T10:48:00.003-08:002012-12-09T10:48:25.273-08:00A Tale Of Two Cities
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There was a time in my life when I was considering moving to Puerto Rico. Seriously. It was an actual consideration at the time. Everything has it's pros and cons, but, I figured that there were a lot worse places for me to move to at the time. I was pretty sure that I could find some good things about the weather, beaches, and music of Puerto Rico.</div>
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At the time, I didn't know much about Puerto Rico at all. Now that I'm on a cruise ship that docks in San Juan once a week, I know…well…only slightly more. So far, I've only visited San Juan. I haven't taken the time to rent a car and drive around at all to see the rest of the country. Maybe I'll do that in the future sometime. For now, I've had experiences with 2 areas in San Juan: Old San Juan and New San Juan.</div>
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The two locations couldn't be more different. Each has it's merits and my preference for one over the other hinges on my various moods and needs while in port.</div>
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"New" San Juan (not sure it's actually called this, but, it's the opposite of Old so it works here) is basically a combination of most of the aspects of commercialized modern America. The main attraction is a HUGE mall that features all of your favorite American franchise stores. Church's Chicken, Burger King, and Chili's in the food court (among others) and Abercrombie and Fitch, Old Navy, and Sears just to name a few. There's a huge movie theater showing American movies (subtitled in Spanish) and plenty of mall standard kiosks hawking everything from sunglasses to flying toy helicopters to Dish Network TV. Across the street from the mall is a Best Buy, K-Mart and other big box stores eager to take your American currency in exchange for goods and services. It's basically the USA. Everyone speaks English. Everything and everyone is encased in a recycled air conditioned environment. It's a dry walled paradise. There are big crowds, long lines, and no shortage of mall walking shoppers. Like I said before, everything has pros and cons, New San Juan included. It's great if you need to go to GNC or Radio Shack, but, bad if you want some quiet time and sunshine.</div>
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Old San Juan is basically the complete opposite of it's counterpart. Old San Juan is charming with brick streets where homes and buildings featuring dated architecture seem to crowd in over and around you when you are strolling on the sidewalk. The entire place is adorned with flowers and palm trees that provide shade as well as a pleasing aesthetic. Street musicians mix in with tourists and locals almost seamlessly. It seems like there is an antique shop on every corner. Everything seems to move at a slower pace here. All kinds of food is available and I took advantage of that by stopping in a small local cafe. I sat down and asked the waiter to order for me. I ended up eating mofongo, a traditional Puerto Rican dish that features mashed plantains covered in meat and various sauces. I had lightly fried pork with garlic sauce as the waiter recommended the "pork with a good beer." </div>
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Both of these areas of San Juan have their merits. There seems to be more history and culture associated with Old San Juan so I'll have to check that out in the future. For instance, there are a couple of historic landmarks that feature military forts or castles of some sort. I'll be taking a tour of those very soon. </div>
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Like I said before, I still don't know much about the history of Puerto Rico. My impression of it's people (all judgments garnered from observing vacationers onboard Adventure of the Seas…caveats apply, naturally) is that they are nationalistic, passionate, and music lovers. I do know that I like it here. Every time I get in a cab or hear a local radio station I hear salsa music. It almost always features trombone (gotta love that). I think I could've been very happy living in Puerto Rico. The weather is beautiful. American currency is used everywhere and almost everyone I've come in contact with is bilingual, courteous, and welcoming. I never ended up living in Puerto Rico. Life dealt me a different hand that took me to Indianapolis, a place that I enjoyed living very much for two years, but, I'm glad that my ship life has given me the opportunity to visit a place where I could've have moved to about five years ago.</div>
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Pictures from Old San Juan:</div>
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Mofongo!</div>
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I bought a CD of these guys. Nice to hear authentic Bomba.</div>
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Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510665369374779665.post-27496981331080870062012-11-26T10:11:00.000-08:002012-11-26T10:11:46.389-08:00Quick Hits
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Saw Skyfall today in San Juan. It's the new James Bond movie and it's getting rave reviews. I would have to say that the movie didn't really do it for me. I was pretty bored most of the time. No spoilers here, but, maybe this is a sign that I'm getting a bit old for action movies. Not so much old in age terms, but, I've seen so many formulaic action movies that I'm just not that entertained by them anymore. It's kind of like watching football for me. Unless I'm invested in one of the teams (University of Michigan or Detroit, for instance) I usually don't watch. It all seems the same to me. Maybe if I was more invested in Daniel Craig as Bond I'd be more interested. Where's Roger Moore when you need him?</div>
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I may be turning into a beach person. I've spent two days in St. Maarten so far on this itinerary and they have been great. I normally don't enjoy the beach that much, but, for some reason it's starting to grow on me. I've just been enjoying getting out there swimming and hanging with friends mostly. The last time I was there I put on some sunscreen and soaked up some rays a little bit. The company does make it better. The folks on my ship like to hang out and have a good time. Also, the beach is in very close proximity to the bar…always a good thing.</div>
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Speaking of bars...what is the deal with loud music in bars? It's really obnoxious. Usually there are very few to no people dancing and the DJ is behind his/her laptop listening to headphones. The DJ usually seems completely clueless to the environment in the bar. The rest of the patrons are sitting around screaming at each other to be heard. When the conversation inevitably falters (because it's just too much damn work to scream at someone sitting next to you to be heard) most people resort to "chair dancing" and just staring at each other. I'm not even complaining about the choice of music. I'm not a big fan of bar/dance music these days (that comes as a shock, I'm sure), but, even if it was Sonny Rollins it would be too loud.</div>
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A friend of mine onboard just turned 38 years old over the weekend. I'll be 37 in January and he and I were discussing these "milestone birthdays" the other night. Here's where I'm at right now with the whole birthday thing: I don't feel old. It just seems that everyone around me is young.</div>
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I'm not a big cigar person. I have one or two a year, usually on special occasions. They are fun to smoke sometimes, but, I almost always regret them the following morning when I wake up feeling like I licked an ashtray the night before. Doesn't seem to matter how many times I brush my teeth. The orchestra occasionally hangs out in the cigar bar onboard after easy gig nights. We were up there a few weeks ago and the guys were enjoying Trinidad (a Cuban cigar that Castro gifted to visiting diplomats) and Monte Cristo punched cigars. I also tried some fancy alcohol including: Glenfiddich 12, Glenlivet 12, and Remy XO cognac. It was pretty much a new experience for me and for that I'm grateful. However, is it wrong that I'd rather have chicken wings and beer?</div>
Carlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11338319455866675688noreply@blogger.com2