Travels to Vinland

Languages when you travel

2011-05-07T10:21:00.001-07:00

Learning a language different form your own can be a very touchy isse.
Some of us took a foreign language in school, and dort of managed to pass the class, but would it hold up during travel?
Do you remember enough to be understood?
The reality is many people int he world DO speak English. They just do not like to let on.
As a general group, Americans are seen as a bit arrogant, and somewhat uneducated. And to a point it is true. We do not usually bother to learn the customs and ways of doing things in other cultures or countries, and we really do not bother to try and learn the languages of other people.
A perfect example is the commercial on TV these days wehre woman one states that she speaks french and several otehr languages, woman two says, "parle (sp) vouz good deal?"
While it is an effort to try and learn a new language, especially if over age 50, I think it is an effort well spent. No ne says you have to be able to carry on a conversation like a native. No one says bad things will happen if you do not learn a new language. I can say that many people, not all, but many, will appreciate your efforts to at least NOT be an obnoxious American.

Probably the largest hurdle to language is learning how the letters that we are familiar with sound in other languages. Second would be their special letters that we "think" we know, like the A with the ring or cirlce over it, or the umlauts on other letters. Buy a CD or tape and listen while you try to dollow the words int he workbook. Repeat as need with the introduction lesson until you learn the letter sounds. Being able to say the name of the street where you are staying will make a difference, trust me there! For those of us who took German class, we say the word Einn, just he way it looks, einn, or one. In Icelandic, it would look the same, though the NN has a T sound, so we would need to say Aett, or what sounds like eight.
Big difference between the streets on the map if you are looking for the number one or the number eight!
No one will bother you too much about your grammer, or sentance structure if you are trying to speak a local language, and most will be patient while they try to help you learn a word, if you are truly trying. For travel, be sure to learn the important words that give you a help in being polite, please, thank you, hello, goodbye, yes no, can you speak English? can you help me? That sort of thing.
If they look at you like you are nuts, say it in English, and ask them to help you say it in their language. It is most likely that letter sound thing...again.
I have found that the CD's at the Barnes and Noble, or the Borders Books can be useful. If they do not have the language you are lookign for in stick, ask, they can probably order it for you. Most of the basic sets run about $30 US. No need to get all Resetta Stone or Berlitz super courses that run into the hundreds of dollars, unless you are planning to move and live in another country.
For the truly cheap (ahem) you can even go nline and find translation sites that have a speaking translation to learn how a word sounds as well as how it is spelled.

Don't beat yourself up if you do NOT learn a language before you travel though. Mostly remember that you are in someone elses home. Their country, their language, their rules. Be polite, ask politely, say thank you, which does tend to sound similar in a number of languages, and as my boss Koby used to say, "Don't embarass the team"!

New year, New market

2011-05-07T10:05:00.001-07:00

HOLY MOLY!!!
It is summer of 2011 already and time to get ready for the market in Icelnad again!
Well, actually I booked my airline tickets in January, before the prices shot up due to the oil...
I am planning a couple new bits of story magic to take for the Icelanders, with luck I have them long enough. Last year they said my stories were all too short! Imagine that, an audience with an attention span. In this day and age. Well done Icelanders!
I will also be taking a few things to share about working with leather in the "western" style, tooling and such. I see they have a new plant in the north of the country (probably won't get there this trip) that makes fish leather. I saw a bit of fish leather last year and it is very nice, an interesting surface. Many possible projects come to mind.

It is a hope that one year I will be able to make a little "Market circle" trip and go to the markets in Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Iceland, one after the other, badically, most of a summer as a Viking! There are some logistical issues with tentage and such, but nothing too insurmountable. I think the key is to be prepared to wear the viking clothes 24/7, with maybe only a single set of 21st century stuff for laundry day, or passing a customs point. The research into the matter will continue this summer.

Just a late bloomer, as so many of my friends from high school have already been to a number of other countries, I guess I will simply tell myself that waiting means I will enjoy it more, and have a differnt level of respect and appreciation than had I gone as a punk kid out of high school. Not that I would have spent the money on it had I even had that much money, still cheap these days too!

On the plus side, I will get to see New York, the airport at least this trip, another state I have never been to. I am getting around these days, and I mena that in a good way.

pictures

2010-06-26T17:29:00.000-07:00

a number of pictures are now up on Facebook in my photo album. I will try to get them put over into one of the photo hosting sites for those without facebook, over the next few days. Am still pretty tired form teh trip, and still waiting for th emissing luggage to arrive home. I really am not looking forward to having to make all my viking clothes and shoes over again.

I was sitting and going over things form the trip and i want to reassure folks that the costs of things in Iceland really are about comparable to those prices in the US.
I mean, the price you see on the shelf in the store already had the tax calcualted into it. In the resaurants, the price on the menu has the tax and the tip included already.
I sat and figured out a few of the prices i paid for things, and while some were a bit higher than i might pay in the US, most were pretty much in line with our prices. This of course takes into account the fact that I am known for my cheapness. So i stopped and looked at a few things in the stores and lo an behold, the prices are really pretty close. True enough, with my online sale source, I can find the airbed i bought for 7000 ISK ( or about 60$ US) for about $30 US, then i have to pay shipping, and tax...so again, some things are higher.
When it comes to food, the Icelanders have a very high standard, and much of their food is organically grown. Very fresh, and very tasty. Some are an acquired taste, but there are enough familiar things to keep you fed without it being a lot of money.
I think i paid about 260 $2 US for a lamb meat hotdog. All done up, you do not realize it is lamb. bigger than the dogs at the mational chain, and remember the tax is already in the price. How can you go wrong!

There were of course some things that were much less than i pay in the US, but I shall not divulge them untill after i have built my import empire fortune! BWA HA HAAAAA.

all for now, sleep still beckons.

home at last

2010-06-23T10:46:00.001-07:00

Home at last
well, the traveling was exciting yesterday. Nothing too critical, but definitely interesting.
I board at the airport and the seat arm does not go up. When I booked the two seats, I asked about it as they were both for me, and I was assured that they would be able to raise the arm to give me the room.
It does wiggle a little to one side giving a bit more room, but not two seats worth. So they moved me up. To the business class section, more room there, and free samlock (sandwiches) and drinks.
I arrive in Seattle, and as it is the customs entry point, we have to retrieve our bags and go through customs, then have them re-loaded for connecting flights. Of course my backpack was the last bag off the luggage run, so I am the last in line though customs. All goes well, and I send my bags onto the conveyer for the trip to Sacramento. Heading up to settle in for my connecting flight, I find that the flight number I had, left Seattle at 1 pm. Mind you I had just landed at 5:45 PM, and now after customs and all it was almost 7pm. A scheduling change in the airline, with no attempt to contact me.
Certainly not by e-mails, and Tory had no phone calls about it. IN effect, they canceled my tickets!
Off to the service desk to get it resolved. There is a different flight that leaves about the same time as the original one, they try to book me onto it. It is a mess as the computer does not like two seats booked to the same person. They make notes, they give me a boarding pass, I remember to ask about my luggage, as the tag might have some coding about my original flight, I have no idea...
They assure me all will be well.
I have just enough time to pause for a 15 minute shoulder massage as the massage bar (now at a number of airports it seems) I felt that after the day I deserved it.
I go show the counter folks my boarding pass to board and she says, “you know that arm does not go up in that row”. “NO I cry, unacceptable. I try to book the two seats to avoid the issues of my weight ans size. And all I get is this hassle”. They change the seat, it is a light flight anyway. Just as I am settling in, they come back and say, sorry but we would like to move you to a seat up front. Where I ask. First class they say. Okay! I can go with that. It was the least they could do considering....
Sure so we land at Sacramento and...
oh wait, did you know that they now have wifi in flight on some planes? Well they do and I used it to try and let Tory know about the flight change, Candace was on facebook so I connected to her and had her call Tory to be sure about the flight times. Alaska Air has it free at least until the end of July I think it was they said, form Gogo.

Anyway, Today I am waiting for a call from the airline to see where they sent my backpack bag off to, as it was not Sacramento. This is the bigger bag with the dirty smelly viking clothes, my mini video camera, the locks and viking coin sets.....and some of my magic props.....grrrrr I should have known.
The props are what jinxed it, I just know it!
I will be pissed if my bag went somewhere like Hawaii without me. So unless someone grabbed it at the luggage and stole it, it should show up in a day or so. Keep your fingers crossed please. It has my new Icelandic wool cloak in it.
I will say it was wonderful to be able to sleep in my own bed, IN THE DARK, and snuggle my sweetie.
A few more days to recover, sleep, and be sure of no new cold from the flights and all will be well in my world.
Trip details will follow over the next few days as my mind clears and remembers them, and I am awake enough to type without odd letters creeping in!

can't touch that day

2010-06-21T03:07:00.000-07:00

Monday Monday

9 am local time, 2 am your time. I am up, showered, dressed and ready to be a relaxed person on a visit to somewhere new today.
I have been invited to tea at Lilja's house. I am not sure what time my ride will be by for me, but I am not too worried about it. I am really ready to just relax a little bit. The market is officially over, and while there are still things to clean up and put away (I will try to help a bit with that task) I am really ready to just go easy for a day.
I noticed a cruise ship in the harbor this morning offloading tourists. Too bad they were not here yesterday for the last day of the market. Oh well.
So. After much chatting with the Icelanders about what they can and cannot get easily, I have a better idea of what to bring next year. Can't help thinking about it, I mean I have been here for most of two weeks in my viking clothes, (not quite as bad as it sounds, considering that I hand washed everything at least once!) I enjoyed my time with the locals, and imported vikings...I met some great folks, and have gained a much better perspective of some areas of the world, and how other people think about Americans.
Well, while on my foray's about today, there is rumor of a second hand store that might have some nice woolen items at good prices. Things like hand knit socks and such. I plan to look into it if I can find it on my own.
Tea should be nice and relaxing, and after that, who knows.
Tomorrow is looking like a little road trip with a couple locals and one of the other ladies from the event (she comes form Norway) to go see Thingvilleir and Geysir, and a possible stop at another woolen goods store for more yarn. I am certain there will be a corner or two of the backpack that could hold another skein or twelve.
Then off to the airport in time to get through security, check in and with luck get a window seat this time.

Almost home, and it feels a little bittersweet. The weather, while not the most I might have hoped for has, according to the locals, been very nice. For my part, I am looking forward to getting home, and having a few more choices in clothing! I also know that I will miss being here. There is still a great deal left to see in this country. Next time I think I want to take a couple of the pre-market days to hear further north to see some of that area, and maybe over to the westfjords, just to see the sights. I have been given many suggestions for places to see and visit.

Candace asked me what the “Market” was all about.
Well, I can say that I have been to two markets now, more or less.
The little one in Gimli, Canada, and now this one. This one is much more of a market than Gimli was, but I am told that this market is very relaxed compared to the ones in mainland Europe.

The market- and overview.
We set up a number of tents for the local artisans and merchant vikings to use. Some also came form greater distances, England, Poland, Germany, etc. The property owner has a couple of small storage style buildings that are used by a couple of local, one Greelander, artisans as a combo workshop and sales booth during the market. So, we set up all the tents, erect a boundary fence around the whole affair, set up some “play areas” and the food/beverage tent. The play zones consist of an archery range, an axe throwing space, and the battlegrounds. There is also a stage made up of stacked pallets, with a tented cover, and a set of stocks for naughty vikings.
The Faroese brought their goods, and set up a fire with a pot of dyestuffs and dyed wool yarn on site both to sell and work with. There were woodcarvers making additional items to sell. One local woman who does exquisite ceramics was busy hand building her wares and putting her designs upon them at her tent. The Spakona seer woman was busy in her tent almost the entire time, and did a scary accurate palm reading on me. She spoke no English and we all know how little Icelandic I speak.
There were a couple of ladies who were belly dancers, and they managed to find a drum so I did a little drumming for them a few times each day for entertainment. A gentleman was doing juggling and a bit of fire and glass work, Storytellers and musicians for added entertainment. The fighters did about three battle shows each day, and then had a smaller area where they did practice and warm up to the delight of the kids. Some of them are like rock stars here, and the kids wanted their autographs after the battles.
So, I guess one could call it a smaller version of a renn faire. The locals pay an admission fee, I do not know how much, to get in, wander about, spend their money, etc. The merchants have no fee to pay, and where they are able, a tent or space is provided for them. I managed to tell a few of my stories with magic for small groups and individuals to be part of the overall entertainment and atmosphere. I walked about at times with my hats on a branched stick hawking them as a means to support my poor crippled mother. Sometimes I spread my cloth on the ground and relaxed sitting with my hats and other bits of trade goods. We are provided the use of a large gymnasium building for sleeping in (bring a flashlight) and showers/toilets (extra rolls of paper a must) and given a hot lunch and dinner. We also get a little discount at the food stand on some things, like the lamb wraps, my favorite! They provide a coffee and tea service for use throughout the day, and in the evenings there is at times beer provided tot he vikings. The property used is the parking lot and surrounding areas of a hotel restaurant right along the waterfront. Hotel Viking, and Fjorukrain Restaurant. The gates opened at 1pm, after we finished lunch, and closed again at about 8 -8:30 in the evening. There were two days off, but we were invited to another local smaller town to do a 2 day set up there. I opted to go, and that is where I did the lamb on a spit cooking thing. And found nice yarn in the local grocery store.....well worth the trip!

They ask us to be reasonable accurate in our clothing items, interact with the “tourists” and not destroy the place!
Other markets I am told have a little different focus, and are designed to get going rather early in the day with sometimes more, sometimes less support structure built in. More focus on fighting, or fighting being more of a competition rather than an exhibition show with a little scripted story. Some are strictly bring your own tent and cooking needs, could be difficult if you are traveling a great distance. Others are able to provide some form of sleeping shelter with advance notice, and have utensils and cooking implements available for use. Each market bears looking into and contacting someone who has been to it and can provide guidance. I did my best to find such resources while here.
See you all soon!

time is fleeting, it's astounding

2010-06-21T03:06:00.000-07:00

Dance dance baybee
Wow
it is really a bit hard to think that it is almost time to go home.
Yesterday, Saturday was a bit overcast with some light drizzle before the sun came out. My sales have been pretty much zip. I am okay with that, as I am still having a great time. I am pretty sure I know why and it has nothing to do with the quality of my work. The wool that is used isn't what they are used to seeing or wearing here. That and only about 10 other people here are doing hats and other nalabinded items. I also still think the economy has a lot to do with it. A few coins sold, but not really much else. Oh well, I guess that means I have stuff for the shows back home where they will let us have a few things to sell.
I finally got to do one of my stories for a larger group, again with the help of a local for translation and volume as my voice is still not quite back to normal. It went over well, and later in the day some of the children came up to me and remarked that I was the one who told the story with the necklace and that they liked it. It might sound very silly, but that alone is enough to make the trip worth it.

I spent some time chatting with more of the Europeans last night. It is very frightening to realize what a low opinion of Americans many of them have. More than one remarked that they thought I would be like other Americans they have either encountered, or heard about. I like to think that I have done my part to help dispel the idea that many Americans are idiots, uninformed, or rude when it comes to the rest of the world. Don't get me wrong, I do try to remind them that we are not all alike, and that just like they cannot judge us all by a single incident, so too they cannot judge us all just by me.
I was told early on that there are certain subjects that are not talked about in Viking camps, mostly to avoid problems. Politics being one of the big ones. I was asked about politics a number of times and what I thought of things in the US. Most f you know my opinions on those topics, and I did my best to be even and accurate in what I know about the situation. I was also very clear to let them know when things were clearly my personal opinion. I think more than anything else, they were a bit relieved to see that there are actually some of us who do think and try to be informed about what is going on.

One thing that was asked of me was about the secret aerial chemical spraying, and how much of it they are doing in the US. It seems that some northern European countries have been allegedly spraying some chemical in the air in secrecy, that is supposed to be helping the Ozone layer. Rumor is that it has been resulting in some interesting harm or side effects to people exposed to it, lets just call it possible unintended circumstances.
Interesting and something I have not heard of, but it certainly bears a bit of looking into, both in relation to Europe and at home. Have any of YOU heard about this little project?

Anyway, I was told that when someone wants to poke fun or be derisive in a number of countries, the phrase used is “That is so American.” Sound familiar folks?

All I can say is that more than one person here has asked if I will be able to come back next year. I take that as a good sign. I got asked if I wanted to play with the throwing axes, and I said yes. I gave the big double bitted a go, with no happiness there, it is a tricky throw and a heavy axe, so it takes much energy to throw, and more fine3sse than bowling to get it to target. I then tried their small axes. I did great. They were a little bit impressed if I say so myself. (shhh so was I . I mean how long has it been since I did the axe throw contest back home.....I still got it-Yeah baby!) WOOT

Now, then, on to the title of Dance Dance. Saturday night in Iceland, and a party is assured. At about 10PM (hard to tell for sure) the staff came outside and told the Vikings that there was beer for them inside. Not many of them can resist the call to free beer, so in we all went. They had some music playing, and a few got up to dance a bit, but mostly it was the beer and talking. Then the band started up. A good one with music in Icelandic and English and songs that I knew. I am no head banger, but boy are my legs and feet tired, my knee is very stiff this morning, and I think I was in bed by 4:30, but again, who can tell with this round the clock daylight! I danced a lot with the boys and the girls, I drank a lot of ice water, and took sensible breaks when I could to cool down. Dancing in a wool tunic is very warm! At least my ears are not ringing. I fear I did my voice no good when they played sweet home Alabama. I kept yelling CALIFORNIA .

Travel tip: carry earplugs for the club nights, the bands are loud and the dance floor is usually right up against the speakers. Also useful when sleeping in the gym with other snoring vikings, or to hand out if they threaten you about your snoring.....'nuff said about that!

So, today, Sunday. After a couple hours of sleep, I AM UP!
I am pretty sure I will need a nap today. Maybe two or three. I do not dare go to the pool. I fear I will fall asleep in the hot pot and simmer into oblivion. Not a bad way to go when I think about it.
I have a bit of last minute shopping for things to locate for my goodies to bring home. Some careful packing of items and clever stuffing to make sure I can get everything home safe and sound, and of course, the last day of the market. There are a few folks who have had to leave already, and at this rate, I will be almost the only sort of entertainment left if my voice can handle it. And if I overcome my language barrier fright and step up to it.
Just about time for lunch to be up, and we will hope for a connection a bit later today. Very spotty this week I fear. Might be from all the stuff we have done outside the building, something might have gotten buggered up with all the nails, boards, ropes, etc. The wind and rain playing games with us, anything is possible as a result.

Tomorrow I will try to be helpful in the taking down and putting away of things, and probably get another nap into the mix.

Tuesday is the flight home. Contemplating a stop at the lagoon, even if it is a tourist thing. I mean the price for it is a bit high, but then again, I am in Iceland...maybe next year. We will see how I feel on the day of the bus ride. I do want to get to the airport and get my seat assignment early- window please so I can have some comfort in my two seats.

2010-06-18T12:43:00.001-07:00

The Saga of Burnt Njala
seems to be some connection problems, will get these up ASAP

I woke up to the sound of power tools this morning. It seems the chickens are getting a proper sod roof on their little home. But I digress, after a late night bus ride home to Hafnarfjodur we returned for sleep. The departure form the small market town included a bus tour of some local sights, the town of Vik, and a few other places, sort of 4-wheeling. All of a sudden there was a strange kerthump sound shortly after take off, as we started the tour ride ( it sounded rather like a tire removing itself from the wheel or axle to me) we arrived back at the gym about 2 am. I simply took off my shoes and stepped into the shower, clothes and all. I think we all needed it. I was rather tired of smelling like BBQ lamb. That and the strange yellow brown dust that covered all of me all the way through the clothes! White silk long johns are not supposed to be that color.

ROAD TRIP, on the big bus. We had a tour and telling, half in English, then he slipped into Icelandic, of the Njala's saga. I do have a few photos taken of the scenery and places. Including the rock where the two murderer's lay in wait....dunh dunh dunnnnnnh. (cue dramatic music here)
I can say I have been to places written of in the Saga. AND I saw the clouds where the volcano is hiding behind! I was unable to safely carry my requisite 6 Kilo's of ash back onto the bus, so we will have to settle for what I could get. There are still a few grains in my eyes I think, but other than those and the ones I swallowed, ate, inhaled, these will have to do. For those who think the term ash is descriptive, for this instance it it not. I have ash from Mt. Saint Helens, that was a very fine to grainy ash. This is more like the Hawaiian black sand variety of ash. Coarse and gritty, sand like. No wonder they closed airports. I imagine this stuff could scour a jet engine very quickly and just ruin your whole day.

So we were at a smaller town, I will retrieve the name of it later, for a two day market to entertain the locals. Rumor has it that last year there were maybe a couple dozen visitors. This year I would say that for the size of the town, we had a very good turn out. We were provided a whole lamb each day to roast, ostensibly as a prop. Guess who got to oversee that once they got the fire going............My reputation preceded me here. Once a cook, always a cook!
I will say that Icelandic lamb is very very tasty. For those who say they do not like lamb, I humbly suggest that if the chance arises, you at least give the Icelandic lamb a try. We used no seasoning at all, and the flavor of the meat was great. Not too greasy, then again we were roasting on a spit so the fat just cooked off and dripped into the flames, and coals. I wonder what it would take to be able to be a sole importer of Icelandic lamb to the US, It really is good stuff! No offense to the Kiwi importers of lamb, it is just that this is such tasty meat. I have eaten a lot of lamb while here.

The local folks there provided us with very tasty soups for dinner, and I find that after the seafood soups, I am not, it seems, allergic to scallops after all. Perhaps there is an issue in the handling or source of the ones I have had in the US that makes me so violently ill when I have them. Anyway, I had no problems with any of the seafood soups I have had herein Iceland. All of which have been incredibly delicious by the way. Actually all the soups have been very good. Not overly salted, and always rather freshly made, along with bread and butter. Real butter, I do not think they are allowed to have fake butter here. Or fake cheese or cheese products.
I was in the small local market looking for milk, and I know it is labeled Mjolk, but there was a carton in with the milk products that said something different. I asked a gentleman what is was and he said Cream, and that it was very good for me. I thanked him and told him while I might agree with him, my doctor might not, so I had better stick to the Mjolk.
Oh my gods, the grocery store in the small town has wool. Not just a couple skeins, an entire market shelf of it! Two or three synth-blend skeins, but mostly honest to goodness real wool-in pretty colors, Icelandic and about 350-450 IKS per skein. At 130 ISK to the dollar YOU do the math on that buy! I think I need a bigger suitcase....oh dear. What can I leave behind....

My magic seems to be going over well, with the only caveat that I have to do it more one on one due to my lack of voice and cough.
I have spoken with the other vikings about what I can do to make it better still and I have some great feedback. I think I will be working on a couple of pieces to be able to do one or two fifteen minute mini shows for future markets, both here and further abroad. I am also mulling over ideas to make a couple things that are now pocket effects, into a more stage or at least parlor sized version to be able to include more people n the viewing if not the participating. I can say that for most of my illustrations I did, I was spot on, and they knew the figures and pictures easily, which helped with the language barrier. While English is taught, many are afraid to use it, or perhaps in the smaller towns do not practice it enough to feel comfortable speaking it.
I did find that opening with Brisingamen's theft, where each helper gets to keep a bead and cord, makes for less resistance to helping me. Sad to say that even here in Iceland, they fear to be a volunteer or helper for the magic. I can only hope it is because they do not get to be a helper much for anything rather than a fear of the magician. I keep avoiding the word trick and ask if they will help me to tell a story, or take a test in the case of the matching game. I have some work to do when I get home to adjust and re-do a few things, and make a couple new items to try

'The economy here is pretty rough right now, and it shows in the lack of sales for many things. Some things are very reasonably priced, and some things are very high. I am still amazed that lobster is less than chicken on the menu. It may be the smaller lobster, but it is still very tasty.
It is also a bit of cultural awareness to know that the Icelanders are fairly practical folks and tend to not have a lot of the crap that we as Americans think we must have in our lives. That and the idea that many of them know and do make their own clothes or other household goods from the local materials.

Wed
Today we have a slow day until about 5 PM when the owner of the facility will be having a 20th anniversary party for his restaurant. We will go be mingling vikings, and then tomorrow on National day, we will be back at the market.

The video camera is giving me a bit of difficulty mostly in that I cannot get things to download onto the netbook, I am not sure if it is the usb, or the card reader adapter, but I am glad I have two big and one little card for video, as I really hope to get some good movie clips.

I found a really nice Icelandic sweater for my mom. I hope it fits her. Button front so if it gets too warm she can open it up a bit. It does have a hood, but when you realize the things are more or less waterproof, they are pretty handy. Don't tell her (and I know she does not do anything online) but it is the most expensive thing I have bought here. It is handmade and bought at the local hand workers co-op. I honestly do not think I have ever paid that much for a single item of clothing in my life.
There are a few of these co-ops in the country where the members make various handcrafts form the wool and other materials to support themselves and their families.

I keep getting asked why am I not going on to some of the other markets in Europe, and all I can say is maybe next year. It sounds fantastic, and a wee bit of a logistical nightmare, but what else is a challenge except a thing to be overcome and thought through eh?! Just let me get some more wool clothes made first though.
Well I think I am about to head off for a nap today, because I can!

Iceland travel tip and good manners.
In the restrooms, you will at times find the scrub brush beside the toilet. These are not intended for the janitor once a week. They are intended for each person to use if needed should your ablutions result in a residue inside the lovely white toilet bowl. Bad form to leave streaks. Keep them toilet bowls clean!

See you all pretty soon, hope you find these entertaining and informative.
k

Oops, the party after.
so. I had thought to upload the journal yesterday to the blog, but I got distracted with the shopping, and then the 20 year party started, and I was up a bit late, I mean early, I mean, I am not sure what time I came to bed, the sun was up, or had just set, or maybe risen again. You get the idea. I had a time fending off somewhat inebriated Icelanders who thought I needed company. Danced with a couple of the viking guys, as it seemed no one else knew how to do the moves, and sipped hot tea while being amused by the rest of the gang.
There were a few attempts to get me to drink strong beverages, and it was fun to have them thinking I had, After a toast, the temptress was momentarily distracted and I was able to swap the cup with the alcohol for my tea cup. Upended it, and watched the looks of amazement. Then after about ten seconds I fessed up and was called a cheater. I threatened to taste the stuff the same way I taste wine, the swish and spit method, that got a fun reaction when I simulated that one, and someone else said who cares, and drank the cup.
Anyway, it was a fun and loud night, with a band or two, and some really unusual renditions of a number of hits. I swear to all the gods, if I have to listen to Ring of Fire one more time........I did have another goat the shark meat.Tthis one was stronger but was also more smoky in odor and taste, that helped. A lot!
Everyone has been really great and very friendly. Even though I am still gimping around a bit with my knee being cranky, and my voice and cough still giving me a running in the Bette Davis or Janet Joplin sound alike contest.

National Day 17th of June

Sold a hat today, and a few of the coin sets. I fear the Iceland economy is just not what they would all like it to be. A shame really, but I am alright with it.. Good experience, and to be honest I am not really trying too hard, just being available if folks are interested, otherwise I am wandering about with the stories and magic. Speaking of which I am almost out of beads...if that happens, I guess I will have to focus on selling the hats more. I need to make luggage space anyway. I found a nice purple Icelandic wool fabric piece that I will turn into a cloak at this time. A bit chilly still for me at times when the wind comes up, the problem is just trying to figure out how to get it into the packing!

Hmmm I am feeling a bit tired, lets see if I can start a stampede to get to bed early as they are whining about my snoring. I told them to go to bed early, I would try to give them time to get to sleep before I went in, but no, some of them were up to “hanky-panky” and had to suffer my snores. Too bad! They were warned fair and square. So a little bit of edge hemming and then some nappage for me I think.

The only problem with not getting online everyday is that my email gets filled up, I had 90 mails the other day after the weekend. Sheesh!
I did get to have my first conversation in Icelandic. A little girl peeked from behind her father's legs and asked me in Icelandic what my name was. I responded in Icelandic with my name, and that I was from the US. She giggled and ducked back behind her father. I am pleased that I understood her when she poke to me. At times people will say something to me and I do not even realize it. I fear I might be seen as rude.

Friday
Slept well last night, though I am sure I was snoring for them all. I warned them, again so they cannot bitch too much.
Today was a fine morning spent at the pool in the hot pots simmering my sore bits. Still no sauna, though I did learn that the Icelandic word Nudd means massage, not nude. I almost missed lunch, which would have bummed me out if I had. We had a wonderful rice pilaf with lamb. Yummy.

A bit slow today at the market as many folks have to work today. We got a few preschool and little kid groups come through, and I had enough voice to tell the necklace story to a group of children with their teacher translating for me. I asked for helpers to tell the story and was surprised by about 6 out of 15 hands going up. I have just enough beads for one maybe two more performances of this one. I have done the Odin's eye with the coins, but they do not seem to notice the two go in, one comes out, and then the second is simply gone. I need to work on this one a bit more I think.

So I found something for the office to bring back, and had the maker sign it. One more task and it will be ready when I get home.
Also, one of the guys here makes boats in the viking style....along with other wonderful things...
www.red-badgers-equipment.de
he will even travel to make or teach you to make a boat...hint hint guys.

For some bizarre reason I just know that my voice and throat will be all back to normal on the last day. Of course. And as I fly home I will probably get another cold.

Well, two more days of market fun. We should be busy over the weekend I think. Then I will help with a day of breakdown and cleaning up before heading back to the airport and home. This really has been a fantastic trip so far, and I would like to think I have not pissed off anyone while I have been here. They have all been good natured in teasing me, and I am even starting to feel comfortable enough to tease back a little bit.
Well, I think I will mosey over and see if there is any connection in the hotel tonight. Maybe maybe not.

Road trip

2010-06-13T14:03:00.000-07:00

I think today is Saturday... It was a dark and stormy night.
Well, it was raining and windy , if not dark.
I went to the pool this morning during a short break in the rain, and waited for the next break to get back. Have I mentioned that the hot water in the pool is really nice? Well it is.

So yesterday was a late start day for the market, but we had a pretty good crowd come through. I tried to sell my Kringla hats, “to support my poor crippled mother” but so luck there. I have been doing a bit of magic now and then for people, when I catch them sitting or resting in the eating area, and they seem receptive. It is a good thing that most speak English here. AND it does give me more things to consider for my story telling magic, I have to make sure that the language barriers are not an issue in what I am doing. Visual magic is good, and to do it as story magic makes it good and interesting.

Today was rain. All day and still a bit drizzly and windy, which of course makes it chilly. The locals come out in their rain-gear to see us, and we are soggy and trying to keep the tents up for the merchants and their wares. I cleverly did NOT put on the linen under-tunic today, just the wool one, and while it was a bit cool, I did not freeze when wet. Next round of shoes need to be a big bigger with room for the wooly socks. Picked up a few more goodies today from the local merchants, and may have to go to the ATM tomorrow, which is supposed to be nice, at least that is the rumor.
Dinner tonight was a very tasty fish stew. Lunch was a chicken meat in vegetable over rice dish which was also tasty. I cannot complain about the food. There has been plenty, it has been hot, and it has been tasty, that and I do not have to cook it or wash the dishes.
NOTE for next time, bring more than one wool tunic, and an ext4ra pair of viking pants. I am doing fine, but having a dry set while waiting for the damp ones to be very dry would be a good thing. I might be buying some wool fabric form one of the merchants and sewing up a pair of pants tomorrow.

Trying to figure out how to get my new walking stick home. Hate the thought of cutting it, but I might have to make a long scarf cut and bodge it back together when I get home.
I have a gotten a recipe for tanning fish skin, and I have seen some very nice items made from several types of fish skin. I look forward to the experiment.
The only fly in the ointment, is I cannot find where I stuffed the mini cam. The main lights in the gym are turned off, so I will have to drag my bags one at a time into the change room area and go through them. I know it is here somewhere, I just cannot find it by feel alone.
On the plus side, the new red shoes got a bit damp today, and true to form, walking around in them damp- the uppers, anyway, as the shoe goo bottoms are just fine,-has adjusted the fit even more. Who knows, if I get a pair of thick socks made, they might just adjust the rest of the way. The knee is a little wonky, but not too much trouble, and then I do have my walking stick. With luck and sun I will take many nice pictures tomorrow and share a few later. I think it is early to bed for me tonight as I was up until about 4:30 chatting and having a nice fireside with a few of the vikings who were still conscious. These boys, and girls , do like to party!
Many MANY thanks to Johannes, the owner of the Viking Hotel and Fjorukrain restaurant for hosting this market. I hope we have good weather for the rest of the market and that he does bang up business.

11.2
Sunday to day, and very nice weather. A bit of clouds and slight chill breeze this evening around dinner time, but otherwise, a nice day.
Have not sold anything, but then, I am nopt really trying too hard., still getting to know the folks, and having fun. I do not have a static booth, so I walk around with the hats on a branch, or I sit on a turf block with a little display of the coins, locks and such.
I did find the video camera, so I am trying to take some videos with it. Now if I can get the downloading to work right all will be well with the world.
I am seriously resisting many things here, the sweets- no more desserts or morning pastries......The fabric, nice wool, VERY nice wool fabric at a good price, but...alas.......And then there is the other temptation. It is a bit confusing here in Iceland. They are very friendly. I am being very good. A few shoulder rubs and such, but Kay is behaving. I fear they begin to think I am not a real Viking! Sometimes a girl just likes to sleep alone. And sometimes she knows what is good for her when she gets home!
I am getting some good info on where to contact companies in Europe for the thin weight linen and wool for tablet weaving and embroidery. I am also learning about how the markets in Europe work for future reference about possibly going over for a summer.

Tomorrow the market is closed for two days. Fear not, we are invited to travel to a market in a smaller town for the next two days, so I have said yes. Especially since it includes a trip to see Kevin (The Icelanders say that some US news crew got tired of mucking up the name of the volcano and started calling it Kevin)
ROAD TRIP!!! and I do not have to drive.
Likely no updates until I get back just so you know.
The nose has finally stopped running, though now the chest is still a bit congested, and the coughing is rough, on me and my sleep. My sunburn has almost all gone to tan and I don't look so sickly anymore.
I am certain there is more I should be typing, but I really am a bit sleepy. I will go upload, and then I think I will get ready for the little trip and try to get some sleep.
Will be back in a couple days all.

Oh Oh, Rick and the guys, I can get tablet weave in linen and wool threads, from about 30-40$ US per meter. Does anyone want me to bring some back for them?
Let me know as soon as you can.

whoops

2010-06-13T13:54:00.000-07:00

The 10th today, and with it comes some rain. It started late yesterday. At least I think it was late.
Anyway, not hard or cold rain, though there is a breeze. True Iceland weather I guess. At least I brought some wool clothes with me.
So we had much excitement yesterday afternoon. Police, black cars, and bodyguards abound. Probably NOT on the news at home, but the President of Iceland was at the restaurant here, so I was told, along with some high ranking Chinese gentleman signing some sort of monetary or trade agreement.

These guys are great. I went hunting for an air mattress yesterday. No place here in the town sells them. I would need to go to ...a different town. I had the name of the store on paper (a good thing, even then I still could not say it right) Hafsteinn rustled me up not one, but two, an actual air mattress and one of the self inflate foam pads. I slept goood last night! I told him I am perfectly willing to buy one, and 'store it here for future use'. HINT HINT.

So, I am actually feeling a bit better today. And I did not even go soak in the hot tub yesterday- I was too whacked to walk that far even. Now it could be the fact that it has been a good three or four days and the thing has just run it's course. The Icelanders will tell you it was what they made me do last night. We were in the bar half of the establishment. They were doing a few bits of hand work and drinking beer and such. I was having nice hot tea trying to make the cough and sinuses settle down.
I was having a fine time chatting with the locals, we were talking all sorts of trash on our respective governments, the social ills and cures we need, must see places and things to do. You know, all the fun stuff! One of the gentlemen across from me gets up and goes to the bar. I figured he was getting something to drink. I had just refreshed the tea when he returns bearing a tray and proclaims “THIS will fix your cough!”
Upon it lay several small cubes, maybe a quarter of an inch square, with little Icelandic flag toothpicks in them. Now understand, we had already discussed this issue, and I told him I KNEW this stuff was for the Thorrablot, the winter feast, and so I was going to pass on this trip. They ALL jumped up looking at me and said you have to, it will help you. It is our national dish....talk about peer pressure.
Well. I ate two little bits of the infamous putrefied shark. Not a lot of any distinctive flavor, and not very harsh, but it was rather chewy. I see why they have to let it ferment to be able to eat it.
Of course the others helped to finish it up, and then they complained that this was the “weak tourist stuff” and that it “did not have nearly enough ammonia smell” to be very good. I was given promises that someone would be bringing some from his “better source” for me to try. (Please cold, go away!)
I mean what was I to do, upset international relations? I had to, they made me! Funny thing is, it is and is not a trick they play on the unsuspecting tourist. They do really eat it, well some of them, along with whale and seal. They know that calling it rotted or putrefied will get our stomachs going all wobbly. It really is not much different form eating pickled cabbage or fermented sauerkraut, or kimchee, without the blazing chiles, it is rather simply, fermented to make it edible. I would say on the toughness scale it is not as tough as eating Ika or squid sushi, and probably about the same as the octopus if it were cubed up small. I draw the line at the licorice stuff though.
So , I am wondering how many Kronur to offer to find someone to give me a back and shoulder massage.....all this coughing had made me sore. I hear they package this shark in jars, I could bring some home for you all to try! But then again, it would take up valuable space I could use for wool...and my rocks. Rumor has it we go to see the Volcano on Sunday. WooT. Oh, and would you believe it. Some of the guys were talking in Icelandic and a certain English phrase slipped in there, one I recognized....World of Warcraft....silly hoarde boys.
Well, lets see what the weather does today, and maybe I will send out a few more pictures, like Iceland at 12, 1, 2, 3, 4 in the morning.
Have fun kids, Tomorrow we start the market, so things should get a little busy.

I can't believe I ate the whole thing...

2010-06-10T02:11:00.000-07:00

Lucky number?

2010-06-10T02:07:00.000-07:00

The 9th, both day and blog entry.
So, last night late through the door comes a viking I have had many e-mails with when she was in Sweden, Freja! She is very nice and does NOT look old enough to have a 20 year old daughter by anyone's imagination! (I thought they were sisters...) She is a serious Vader fan, an imperial leader I am told. Something about a big Star Wars con in Orlando in Aug.

Well, the village is setting up nicely, and I am not much use the last two days with this silly cold.
So far there have been about four types of alcohol suggested as a cure for this cold. They are convinced they can convince me to try at least one. I am unsure as at least two of them are licorice flavor and you know how I am about that. I had hoped that the fever broke last night but I don't think so today, so I have another day to rest up then I must be functional for the market.
I am still trying to figure out the bells form the church tower, we get a couple dings, then the actual time bells. I do not know, being a harbor and sea town, if the first few dings are the old ships bells time. At three PM today it rang 4 times quickly, then three times slowly.

Anyway, a bit blustery all day today, and finally this afternoon it has started to drizzle a bit. This is almost the darkest it has been since I have been here! I had thought to do a little sketching today, as I am sure the photos today are all just murky gray. The kids were out sailing In the harbor today. Yesterday they were Kayaking. A local youngster told me that “yes, in Iceland we all learn to sail very young as we have the sea as our trade.”

So, Dear Diary, not much to enter today as my cold is keeping me pretty fuddle headed. Maybe more tomorrow.
I fear the Icelandic Phalological museum is not in the cards for this trip, although there is a possibility of getting to the “Penis” mall. But not certain yet.
I wonder, am I allowed to bring whale teeth into the US?

oh, my aching head..

2010-06-08T06:24:00.000-07:00

So. You may have noticed no news yesterday.
It's all good, except that my sinuses are NOT listening to me about the no cold rule. Both of them have now teamed up against me. I have a decongestant nasal spray that does a good job, but then I am on a hanky binge.
There was also a cultural exchange group here helping yesterday. Mostly young adults, and one older woman from Israel who was with a group doing journalism for the program. They rotated between the camps, so that four or five are elsewhere today, but the rest of the gang is back, Some from Spain, Germany, and a number of other countries.

So, the Viking group here, being part of the local cultural heritage, gets recognition form the city government, and they have a club house. A big one! With storage and workshop space. I am jealous.

I slept there at the club house last night, and will again tonight. The gym next door to the site will open for us Wed, and then we will sleep there.
A group of folks from the Faroe Island arrived yesterday, and they are very nice. One of them speaks some English, and has been good enough to help me try to talk to them. She does wonderful tablet weaving, and depending on her prices, I might have to bring some home to use myself. They have nice two ply wool in embroidery/tablet weave gauge, and I am on the hunt for some here in Iceland. I am told it is available, and I will find it!
This morning it was off to the pool here in Hafbarfodur to try and cook whatever has settled into my sinus out. No luck there, but the soak was nice on the sore muscles. I find the children in Icelnad enjoy talking to you if you are AMerican, and get a little time to show you their English. Most of them have a friend or relative in the US and are interested to know if you might know of them.
It is important to remember that the entire country only has a population about the size of Stockton. Very spread out.
So we spent yesterday with some of the kids from the cultural exchange camps unloading a large transportainer of all it's stuff, to find the parts for the tents and village. Set up six tents with flyes, and a large food serving stall tent. Today we put the extra stuff back into the box, and get the canvas in place. I of course use the royal 'WE' here, as I am feeling like warmed over road kill today, even after the soak. Blech.
Note to self, there are no laundry mats here in town, one would have to take the bus to Reykjavik, or sink was and lay out to dry. Nice weather again today, I expect things to be dry very soon! Then maybe off to the wool store if I can find it.
Beware when traveling in Iceland, people will tell you a place is so many minutes away, then mean walking time in Iceland pace. That is usually about a third of the time it would take me to waddle to the location named. Be sure you have good walking shoes to get around, even with the bus card you will need to go a few blocks walk for most things. You can rent cars, and scooters and bikes. But why. It IS good exercise. I just have to keep reminding myself of that. Damn them and their fresh baked bread with nice yummy butter.....;} I am not losing any weight here!

Oh, I have also met a Greenlander gentleman who does wonderful art. He speaks no English. We get along fine. He and his family are here, and I plan to buy a number of things from him. No telling as they are surprizes.
Well, I think I will post this one up now, and will try to check online later today for a little skype.
Take care all.

2010-06-06T14:35:00.000-07:00

To the Sea!

I have arrived in Hafnarfjodur, the harbor town at the sea. Many thanks to Hafsteinn for the ride down from Reykjavik, and the additional language lessons!
I am in the Viking Hotel for the night, then tomorrow I will help with setting up things, and begin my stay with the vikings in the Gym! I am really looking forward to meeting new folks form around the world.
The hotel is very cool, at least in my book! Very eclectic and what wild and inspired décor. Carved stones, fantastic wooden chairs that are carved, and a host of local crafts for sale in the gift shop.
I will of course be taking pictures of things for all to see. My room is a cozy one, and while it might be small by what US folks are used to, it IS an old building. It has a shower bathroom, two (twin?) beds. Coffee maker, TV, little desk and lamp. I would say the space is sort of like some of the older Victorian hotels we stayed at in SFO, and even some I recall in Sac. So in my book, it is just fine.
They have a geothermal hot tub, and I intend to use it tonight...remember to remove the silver jewelry first this time..... You would think after that trip to Thermopolis WY. I would remember...NOT!
Thank goodness them Carhart's are tough enough to polish the ring up a bit.
So we went to a local coffee shop for a quick coffee for Hafstein before he ran off to a family function, and I had some tea and a sandwich- very yummy. I did also have a bit of desert.

This town is said to have a large population of the hidden folk. Elves and such, and they even have a tour that takes you to their homes. If time permits, I might try to do it. It sounds like fun, and you know how I love local tales and myths, even if they ARE real.
Oh, yes, the language lesson, or rather help with pronunciation. So, we know about the LL sound, and the D with the little line on it. We know the thorn, which looks like a capital P that slipped a bit to the middle of the upright- a hard TH, like in Thorn...
So the next phase, the G us a sort of, well it is hard to describe, it is based on the Greek letter X, which does not help me having never had Greek or Latin, but is it a sort of back of the throat not quite a cough sound. Yeah, you just have to hear it, a lot and try to get it right!!
The F in words like HaFnarFjordur get a soft B sound, so it is more like Habnarbyorthur to say.

And then there is the case of the double N, like in Hafsteinn. It makes sort of an ending D or almost a light T sound, so it is more like Hafsteid.

R's get a rolling sound like doing a bad Scottish accent, not the glottal style as in German.

Okay. If I focus, I can say a street name and almost get the pronunciation of things. I still have no idea what it is I am saying. Knowing the vocabulary is at least 1/3 of the battle. If I know the word for a street translated to “dead whale beach avenue”, I can always ask for it that way.

So, 8:30 in the morning your time, and most of you are probably still asleep, it being Sundayu and all. 3:30 in the pm here so I will go for a soak and then come back to type more on the tiny keyboard, and maybe try a SKYPE, that is if ANYONE IS UP!

Alrighty then! I have had a nice lunch with tea and desert, a toasted ham and cheese sandwich with a little side salad.
Then psassing a bakery aI stopped in.Jjust to look mind you. And then this vanilla cream waffle cookie called my name, and I ended up having two deserts today.
To add insult to injury i went across the street for dinner, and there was another desert with my name on it. Dang it, three in one day. Okay no more deserts for me this trip.
So, dinner. Would you believe that the tagliatori pasta with garlic roasted lobster tails and vegetables and a side salad, cost less than the chicken salad dinner. Guess which one I had! Mmmm Lobster.
Ths hot tub was nice and the sauna was even better. a fine evening all in all. To bed now, for tomorrow we begin getting things set up for the market!

2010-06-06T02:34:00.000-07:00

10-11-snake eyes
I brought along the miniature video camera for it's lightness and size, literally the size of my thumb.
Still figuring out where to wear it for optimal video, short of taping it to my temple to see what I see as I move my head, probably not a good idea either. I am getting video, just not quite what i want, but I stand by the concept, and I am unanimous in this! I have a few more days before the Viking Market, and that is where I really want to be using it anyway.
The plus at not having to have the battery packs charging, and such is nice. Now as long as I do not lose it I will be fine!
I am still not sure why they call the little stores 10-11, unless it is because 7-11 was taken. The prices do not seem that high to me, but then I have yet to get to a Bonus market to see what the regular Icelanders pay for their groceries. With their logo of a pink pig, I am reminded of the Piggly Wiggly stores. Perhaps tomorrow.

So, while I am enjoying the time at the hostel, there are a few things that a newcomer needs to know:

Like, what are the hours on the front counter. I Know they have a lot of handouts and other information all over the lobby and common area, but I just do not recall seeing a sign for the hours of the counter being staffed.

Little things like the darkening blind in the window for these long days when you want to sleep.

Where the kitchen is, and how to get into it in the middle of the night when you want a cup of tea. The baskets with tags to mark for your things in the fridge is a great idea, and the share baskets for folks who leave stuff for others to use is also fantastic. They do need a larger sign about cleaning up your crap though. A couple kids made rather a mess cooking and just left their junk out as if the maid would handle it.

The rental vehicles totally escaped my knowledge the first day and a half. Not until they pulled them inside for the night did I realize they were not someone's personal scooters out in the back.

I am old and wobbly at times, I would rather like a handrail at the front steps. Iceland is not the land of ADA. I can do it, as long as the kids don;t knock me over because I am so slow getting up and down. Note to self, bring the walking stick next time, or the hiking poles.

There is a book loan shelf, with take a book leave a book type status. And the books are form all over the world. Very cool, even if I cannot read more than a few of them.

Ask right away about where the local market or grocery supply is, breakfast is available at many hostels, but might not be what you expect. Also your stomach may not be adjusted yet to the time change and environment and you might need a bit of comfort food to keep you working right.

Your room-mates might arrive at anytime of the day or night. Watch what you are not wearing!
Also, if YOU are coming and going, be polite about lights and the door latches, they are loud and the doors are heavy. A good idea is quiet in the sleeping areas, regardless of time of day. Someone might be trying to recover from jet lag. (wink wink)

If you have an early checkout, pack most of what you can the night before to avoid disturbing folks while you root out your junk.
Try to not hammer on things in your room. The building is solid enough, but sound transmits through those concrete walls if you are touching or pounding on them. Voices are muted, but not thumping or drumming on the bed frames or wall.

Over all be polite and do what you can to help over-ride the conception that so much of the world has about the American traveler. It won't be easy, but if we all try just a little bit I think we can make a difference.

Odd thoughts and observations...

So, we are out at the Gullfoss waterfall, rather spectacular indeed. There was a bit of litter here and there on the grounds at both the upper and lower parking areas. A couple of (who would have thought it) Americans stopped to pick up the can and bits of paper in the lot and grounds, but there was no trash can anywhere. Not in the parking area, or on the bus. So it was brought back to the hostel for recycle and disposal. A shame really, as while the problem of odd bits of litter is not heavy, yet, if the locals do not begin to think about controlling it, or at least making it easier to find trash receptacles, any increase in tourism will be clearly seen. Maybe there is a cultural cue I am missing. I just hate to see such a pretty country get littered up. Who knows, maybe it is the wind that blows all the trash out to the sea and they just do not think about it. I cannot say.

Noticing a bit of graffitti, though usually on vacant building or store sides and such. What I don't see is any apparent effort to clean or remove it. Hard to tell if it is the native Icelanders or emigrants/visitors. I do notice that they have a high appreciation for art, and there is that old wag about “but is it art”.

I found one of the yarn shops. Now I KNOW that there is a soft wool that comes form these sheep, and when you see and feel the sheep skins, it is evident. I have looked for wool to buy and bring home, but it is all the outer guard hair stuff, very scratchy. I cannot think of a project to make that would not require me to line it. Feh! I will say that the outer or guard hair wool does have a natural water repellant quality, and this is why they use it in so many outerwear things. One artist has a show and form of textile art getting good reviews...she is felting. At the Culture house is one of her installations, a long elastic string, or rather a series of them, with felt balls in various bright colors strung along it. There are some photos of a couple of children at play with them.

Sleep, wonderful sleep..
Almost a solid 8 hours last night! I woke up a couple times, saw it was light out (snort) and checked the watch to see if it was time to get up, 1:30, then 4, then 5:30, then finally 8! I feel nice and rested. I am having a bit of sinus congestion. Here is hoping it is just because a number of folks were smoking on the patio last night, and NOT because I am catching a cold. I am NOT going to catch a cold while I am here. End of discussion. (excuse me, I need a tissue).

So today I leave the hostel and head for the harbor town. Tomorrow I will start by helping them with the set up of things, and learn where things are in that area. Who knows, maybe I will visit the pink pig store yet!
Still trying to find a few more things to bring back for folks......Something for the office. Something unusual she said.....I wonder what the guy at the Penis museum has for souvenirs? Yeah, I typed it. There is a Penis museum in Iceland. Have not gone there......not sure I can. But really, how can one not go to something like that! I guess that come form either lack of sun, or lack of dark.

Hostels

2010-06-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

In case i have not mentioned it, or you missed it, i joined the HI, Hostels International, the orange circle logo with the green tree inside. (there are a couple hostel assns. out there) Cost is about 30$ a year, and you get really pretty nice places to stay. Now you can stay without being a member, but you do get a discount if you join up. They have a travel insurance and some other benefits built into the program. Did you know that in Califronia, a number of the coastal lighthouses are part of the Hostel system?! Can you imagine the cost of staying overmight in SFO? there is a hostel for that!
http://www.hihostels.com/
my stay has been about $30 US a night. I get kitchen priveledges, self cleaning, and fun folks to talk to and meet. I am in a room with a couple others, somehow i missed the booking button for the private room (10 extra a night) but it's all good. Bathroom and shoer in the room, lockers you can rent for anything too valuable to lea ve out, and comfy room and bed. I am just glad i got here early to get a bottom bunk, though anyone i had to sleep above might be willing to give it up!
The one I am staying in is here, and the pictures are pretty spot on;
http://www.hihostels.com/dba/hostel026001.en.htm?himap=Y#book
except for the northern lights one, that is waay too dark for this time of year.
The staff has been very helpful, though i think they are used to veteran users of the system. YOu will need to make it clear if you are a hostel virgin so that they tell you all the stuff you need to know!
Many of them can help you book your day trips and arrange your transportation in the area. Look over all the brochures on the system, and the hostel you are at in particular. Ask the staff questions, ask other hostellers questions, donl' be shy. if you want ot stick to yourself then pay extra and stay at a hotel! This is fun,and you really do get to meet people form around the world. Somthing i think more Americans need to do. We are too closed in our culture and view of the world.
So far this week, English, Scottish, French, Swiss, Kiwi's, Icelanders, Canadians, Spaniards, Austrians, and those are just the ones i talked to! Oh,a couple of other Americans too. Some young, high school age, some older. In all a good time and a lot of fun, even if i do not drink alcohol!

I am a tourist!

2010-06-05T13:04:00.000-07:00

Number 5
The golden circle.
After a fine breakfast, I signed up for the afternoon tour of the Golden Circle. An abbreviated bus coach drive up to the Thingviller (yes, that LL gets the Tl sound), the Gullfoss waterfall (yep, that LL to!) and then over to Geysir, say it like geezer and you will have it. The original geysir, the first one to bear the name, is intermittent and they say it wants a couple good strong quakes to wake it up again. It's alright, as there are plenty of smaller hot pots of boiling water to bubble and burp, and one that shoots about 70 feet every four to five minutes. A bit of sulfur in the air, but not like visiting Lassen. While there are bubbly mud pots in some areas, this is not one of them. Strictly water at this location.
It looks like Iceland is just getting going with spring for the number of wildflowers out in bloom. Buttercups, yarrow, and a host of others that look familiar, but not quite what I know them as. Arctic terns out and about along the rivers, and other birds to add to my list. Still trying to figure out if I will get to see the puffins up close, this is the time of year they say, they are on the little islands by the millions, breeding away. Did you know that puffins only have one egg a year?
The Icelandic horses were everywhere in the countryside today, small but hardy and feisty I am told. Likewise the sheep, which roam the countryside and are only herded a couple times a year for tagging and shearing. They kept nestled in the hummocks created by the lava fields, so I am not sure if I was able to get a good picture form the bus or not. I will say that for a country this size, they have an amazing array of landscapes. I don't want to spoil it for your future visits, so lets just say you gotta see this place. And give yourself enough time to really see it. While rental cars can be expensive here, along with the gas, I would really look into the hostel room and car plan if I come back again. The ability to take your time and see what you like is nice. Be warned, the bus was sort of off-roading today, okay so really just not all the roads are paved all the way out yet, and the cars hug the edges when the bus comes along. The driver was great and so was the tour guide. Language lessons in the mix no extra charge!
I have a few souvenirs already, but I am sure I will find a few more before the trip is over. So, Sunday, tomorrow is my check out day at the Hostel, I will call my contact in Hafnafodur (sp) to make arrangements for the rest of my trip, not sure where I will be the next two nights but I am not worried about it. Trying to re-arrange the luggage to not have so many loose bits and pieces to carry as I will likely be taking the city bus service a couple of times with it all, and I want to be able to load fast.
Skype is working off and on, not sure what the hang up is, them or my little machine, but I do get a good talk in with Tory every now and then. The video is off and on, and if we conference call it the video is always off, but hey, it's all good. Time to upload and check the messages, will try to SKYPE in an hour or so.

Mmmmmm hot Vatn

2010-06-04T21:22:00.000-07:00

Now I'm cooking!
Ahhhhhh, a nice soak in the pool, I tried the first one, not hot enough, so I went for the one at the far end, that I could see, it was 42o C which is very nice and hot on my poor tired little body. A nice young man told me where the really hot one was, but it looked like it was under maintenance so this one would have to do. I did about 20 minutes, then got out to cool down in the nice evening breeze, then ambled back in, very tingly hot!.
But I digress. So the Welcome Pass for the bus got me in free, otherwise about 360Isk or somewhere around 2.75 US. There is a counter where you can buy goggles, or nose-plugs of snack/drinks, and even swimsuits if you need one. Get your ticket, pass the turnstiles, and be thankful that the signs are in English too, though Krona is Icelandic for Women. Kronur for Men.
You park your shoes outside the change room in the rack, and there is a locker you can put your valuables into if you like. Then inside to change. More lockers inside, and I found out you could put your shoes into a bag and bring them into your clothes locker if you are going to use one.
Be sure to bring at least 1 or 2 -100 Ikr coins for the locker to give up the key, you get it back when you open up later.

So, strip down and take your towel and swimsuit, cause first you have to shower yer butt before they let you into the pool. Nice warm water and soap provided at the dispensers. Head to toe, and they have little signs to direct you to those special places, like your head and feet, and well, lets just say they want you clean first!
A fine feature is the lovely two drinking fountains that run continuous with nice cold eater to drink before heading out.
Suit up and put your towel into the rack cause it is time to get some swim on!
There it is, a long corridor that takes you to the automatic door of bliss. There is a shallow pool for children, with a small slide for play, and a three story tower, very colorful with a pipe water slide, and general splash zone for the play inclined. Then nearest the doors are about three pools and a big shallow sit around in a stretched out circle and chat sort of pool. Turn left, go along the side of the 8 lane big old pool, all set up for laps, and you see the pools with safety rails lined up with signs giving you the temperature of the water, 30c, 32c, 38c, I went for the second one, too cool, then right on down to the end for the 42c. Ohh baby, that is some nice hot water. And not much sulfur at this point. I am told there is a steam room, but without someone to massage or slap me with birch twigs, what is the point. So after about an hour, it is open until 2230 on weekdays, I moseyed back to the hostel all ready for bed. Almost. I went for a cup of nice hot tea, met some people from France and another young man form England, one form Glasgow who are over on a sort of volunteer conservation crew working on things in the national parks for eleven weeks or so. No pay but they get fed and housed, and they get to see the country first hand and up close.
Headed back to my room, the two young ladies from Switzerland are all dressed up and headed out to party. Lets just say at 3 am local time they are not back yet. I think they will call it a successful evening.
Okay, I have decided that after breakfast this morning I will have the folks here book me up on the Golden Circle Afternoon tour. A 6 hour tour that leaves at 12:30 to go see Thingvillir park, Gullfoss and Geysir. Oh, and the nice young man at the pool taught me how to say the name of the volcano correctly. Which incidentally is being blamed for the overcast weather as there is still ash in the air, and on everything else a bit as it settles out, and cutting a bit of the sunlight (the double L at the end gets the same Tl sound as the first set- it takes practice)
So, climbing back into bed for another couple hours, then up and at em for the day! Hope you had a good Pizza Friday and said hi to Koby for me!

I'm in hot water now, or soon anyway...

2010-06-04T13:24:00.000-07:00

Blog three, still day two.

The city bus system (still in Reykjavik) is actually easy to understand. As long as I don't forget that the number 14 is the one that goes in front of the Hostel. The bus is 280 Ikr each ride- I think there is a transfer available, but I was not sure what it said on the tag so...All the buses go to their main station, and from there you hop on or off to get to the bus you want that goes to where you want. You can of course do that along the line, but what makes the station nice is you can buy the bus cards there.
Got the “Welcome” card for 24 hours. It lets me take the bus, unlimited trips, get into several museums, get discounts in some of the shops, AND take a ferry over and back to one of the islands in the harbor! The one day was 1600Ikr. Considering th3e two museums I went to today would have been about that in admission, and then the 4 additional bus rides, a good thing to have. Also it means you don't have to carry a ton of change for the bus. Exact change of course, and that means 2 each of the 100 kr, and then a 50 kr, and three 10 kr to get the bus fare.
Tip trip for next time, bring along a badge holder and clip for things like the buss pass, and even the room key!
Museums today: The Culture house, and the Early settlement display. Both downtown, about five blocks apart, (bus stops nearby).
The culture house features some of the early saga manuscripts, though they are loaned out form time to time and replicas or large presentation book duplicates are used then, like today. Sure same luck I had in Toronto with the shoe museum. No pictures allowed form inside the Culture house, so you will have to sue your imagination. In addition to the manuscript hall, there is a rather nice display of photos taken by a local man of families in Iceland. Most of them are rural and show them in their homes and work. Makes one stop and think about all the stuff we have in our lives back home, and how these folks are still pretty basic when you get right down to it. Much of the baggage we drag along in our lives is out of desire, not need. Icelanders do not appear to waste too much of anything. The images included farmers; young ladies who work cleaning fish in the harbor; a Seal hunter and his family; an older farmer who went form fox hunting to tourist guide as his economy changed, an older man who still hunts foxes; and two brothers, self educated scientists brothers who live near the volcano that recently erupted. Alas I do not know if they had difficulties form the eruption or not. Interesting to get a glimpse into the homes and lives of the people of this land. I also had lunch at the Culture house. There is a soup and bread with coffee lunch for 1000Ikr, and you can refill the soup and bread. Sou[p choice was a vegetable, very tasty, and a mushroom. The bread was a very good fresh made roll (actually more of a mini loaf) I started with a bowl of the vegetable, and thought to have a second bowl to try the mushroom, but strange as it seems, I was just right after the single bowl and bread.

Fortified and ready for more museums, I went outside to catch the bus tot he settlement house. The bus driver did not laugh at me out loud, but he did look surprised when I pointed on the bus map where I wanted to go. He looked at me and pointed like “It's just over there, why don't you walk it?!”
I tried to tell him that I have no idea where “over there” is, so he shrugged and took me to the nearest stop to where I wanted to be. It was still a bit of a task finding the signs and going the right direction to get there, oh, and still a two block meander more or less to find it. The bonus? Getting to see an area of Reykjavik I might not have, I think I passes a casino with slot machines, and possibly a leather bar, but hard to tell with everything in a language I cannot read very well.
So the story goes that they were moving an older house, or trying to, in order to relocate it for another museum type place, in order to build a hotel and parking garage. Back in about 2001. They found the foundation outline and bits of artifacts form a longhouse of the settlement era. The museum staff estimate that there are more than a few of these under many of the buildings in Reykjavik. Newspaper accounts wee, one hears, rather hot and heavy with the fight over halting the garage, or saving the history. They opted for the history, built a frame and building over the site after stabilizing things, and additional building above that. I would guess that a clever engineer might have found a way to have the lowermost level of a multi-story garage be the history set aside, but what do I know!
Anyway, they have a few artifact fragments, and a nice layout of the foundation, post-holes, and layout of the site. Pictures were allowed, though the lighting and layout of the foundation make it hard to get anything good from that.. A most interesting place to see, at least from a re-enactor perspective.
I did stop into a number of gift stores while I was downtown, but nothing really jumped out at me, except the sealskin goodies, and the arctic fox, but I don't want it captured at customs for cities violations. There were rather large candles in the shape of the Great Auk, but I considered the logistics of safe travel for them and passed. What sort of things to bring home for people.....still looking!
Made it back to the hostel on the buses safely, still amazed at being able to ride the bus alone!
So, it is now about 8:30 in the evening, and i am going to go soak in the pool just up the street, it comes with the bus pass admissions, which expires at ten or so in the morning. Seems a shame to waste it, and my feet hurt form all that walking today...THAT'S my story and i am sticking to it. The swimming pool has adjascent small pools where the water is hotter by degrees, the whole thing is heated form the geothermal source......ooo i get to become volcano stew!
next post in the morning after the soak and sleep! Have a good day back home, we reached about 68f degrees today in Reykjavik, it got a little bit warm!
I need a soak NOW!

the SAGA continues

2010-06-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

Day Two and look out Reykjavik!
I slept rather well last night, two young ladies from Switzerland arrived late to the room while I was out blogging, and one of the roomies knew about the blind for the window, I had closed the curtain but was not aware of the roller blind, it made the room much darker and sleep was easier! Yaay!
About quarter to two back home, and quarter to 9 in the morning here, I am still a tiny bit sleepy, but then nine is still a tiny bit early for me if I am honest!
Colors on the wrapper of a chocolate bar will help you decide, if you pay attention.
There was one last night form the machine that was yellow and black. I know the word for chocolate, but it was hiding a long large stripe of black licorice inside...blech! So, I had to go buy another one that was edible. Such a sensitive palate I have. Thank goodness that the snickers bar has a distinctive wrapper. What is fun is that so far the vending machines I have seen all will take your credit-card.
There was a “cereal” bar, some puffy grains, flavored with banana and a nice layer of chocolate.
I guess I will be taste testing the chocolate bars while in Iceland, as the options for other snacks is a bit limited. Apples were 500 Ikr a kilo, or about $2 a pound, I may have to get a few of them for snacks and cooking with.
Still on the fence about doing the fishing or not, and thinking what the heck, they have a bulletin board, if I catch anything I will just cook it up and offer to anyone who wants some for dinner tonight.
Well, no more flavored skyr for me, it does not taste right. I will pick up some of the plain stuff today and give it a try. The good side of the flavored stuff is the spoon inside the lid for you to eat it with. It is a plastic shovel shape, that folds in half in the middle, and snaps into place. It can be unsnapped to fold back up. I now have two of them. Cute and clever!
I now have a map of the buses and places I want to try and see today, so we will see if I survive the system to return and actually get the blog up-loaded tonight allowing for the further adventures.
NOTE the Lupine is considered a weed, and imported, likely by the US from the base. It gets used for some erosion control, but now i looks like they are trying to get rid of it, disruptive to the native plants in a big way.

first "night" in Iceland

2010-06-03T18:02:00.000-07:00

at one am, it is still light enought outside to do just about anything except maybe read a book. After about four hours of solid sleep, i think i can share some of today's thoughts and observations.
I tell you, can the US pick a site for an airbase or what! Talk about the middle of nut'in', Keflavik is bleak to say the least. I have noticed that the Icelanders have a fine appreciation for art though, and you will see it in may unexpected places.
It was cloudy as we flew in today so i did NOT see the great mall from the air.....i cannot confirm or deny that it is shaped like a giant p-nis.
There are some colorful sculptures at the airport, and even on the drive to Reykjavik, there are interesting rock cairns along the road. Some of them look to be memorioals or grave markers, but some look like a multi hunk constructed tower that has the look of the big heads from Easter Island. Give credit, they have a LOT of rock here, and they use it! I mean, these chunks are just laying around on the ground, and if they get scarce, I think the gods wake up and Surtr tossed more from the mountains to them!
Most of the folks in the hostel are down for the night, but there are a few 'kids' still up and making a bit more noise int he room areas than might be nice. There are plenty of common areas for that sort of thing, but hey, kids will be kids. There is a group of HSer's from So Cal here, what are the odds! I do have a roomie for tonight, a woman from Canada who will leave tomorrow for the 10 day ring tour with friends who opted to stay inthe $170/night hotel a few blocks away.
Oh, back to the art! The city abounds with bits of art tucked into numerous little green spaces among the houses and buildings. I plan to see more later today as the museums open up. There is a bit of graffitti around town, but after all, i am in the urban area. small bits of litter on teh streets, wrappers and such, but overall a very clean city. Rather a fair number of vacant businesses were seen while i was out walking to the market, and on the bus, so the economic issue is hitting everyone and everywhere.
Must remember that when someone says "yao" to me, it means hello! I keep saying hello back, so much for trying to learn a bit of the language and actually USE IT!
I tried to ask for red cabbage on my hot dog earlier YESTERDAY, and th elady looked aty me like i was from the moon. oh well, who would have thought that ruthkal would not sound right when i said it!?
Too many excursions to think about for things to do. there is NO shortage of trips to be able to take, from snorkeling in a warm spring by Thingvillier to caving in lava tubes...knowing me I would get stuck, so i will try to go easy this trip...
So far plans are for a trip to the city center later today to see the museums and take many many pictures. I will also be looking fo rhte Icelandic wool coop folks for some wool to bring home, and then maybe the boat ride to see the puffins. I would LIKE to go on the fishing trip, but when they mention you might get a giant halibut, i got nervous about how much fridge space that would take up, you only get a little basket of space in the community fridge, and i have no idea if the fellow travellers at the hostel would want a fish BBQ. I am looking at one of the bus tours to the Gullfoss falls, and the geysir, as well as Thingvillier plain as a finiswh uypi excursion.
10/11 store, a mini mart liek the 7-11 back home. I found the personal bits i needed, shampoo, and toothpaste, my hambuirger kit- 4 patties and 4 buns in the package. PRices are a bit high, but not really for a convenience store. I will try to find the Bonus groacery store while here. There was a little market next door with frozen meats, skyr, fresh vegetables, and some local goods like home-made soap, Icelandic tea- of cours i bought some! The produce so far is very limited, I saw celery, though mostly the tops, not the stalks. Salad mix was not what we would think of,and a 100 g bag was about 4$ US if i did th emath right. One was what looked to me like lambs quarters, though the label said arugulam, the other was more like a spring mix fo leaves i have not seen before. Tomatoes were about 400 Ikr a Kilo, so that is about what i pay in the store at home, though these are greenhouse ones for certain. Plenty of fresh herbs, and herb plants, even a pony pack size of salad plants for the windowsill harbvesting i guess.
I did see a nyumber of plants that are not being used just growing as weeds along the walks and lawns, dandelion, huge ones, and plantain- not the bananna sort. One sort of odd observation is that the roadside and small hills are covered with Lupine, great purple masses of them in bloom! /also saw what i think were buttercups, and great hummocks of a type of bunch grass. hazrd to say from the bus!
More later, as this is getting long winded and i have a burger to cook! (AT 1:30 IN THE MORNING!)

day one Iceland

2010-06-03T07:03:00.000-07:00

Iceland day one
If you have been to Iceland before, skip this post!

Iceland in general can be found in many places on the web. Go there for the particulars, size of Kentuky, population , etc.

If you have never been, a few things about the airport....
There are some nuances to be aware of, first, the International flights, Icelandair, come into the the old Keflavik AFB airport, about a 40-50 minute bus ride from Reyjavik proper. There is another airport in Reykjavik, which is the one used for flights around Iceland and I think to Greenland. Not the same place when planning your trip!

The ONLY Planes I saw at the Keflavik airport were the Iceland air fleet. After deplaning, you go downstairs, get your passport stamped, then board a shuttle bus that takes you to the luggage. From there you go to the customs stop, Green line if you have nothing to declare, Red line if you have something that might be an issue. You know me, so I went to the red line. I must say, they were much nicer than the Canadians about things.
So, customs cleared and ready to get to the big city, note that the airport has duty free shops, a bank with ATM machine- put your card in strip down and to the right to get the menu choice of English- and a place for currency exchange. It is to the left as you exit the customs area. To the right is the kiosk for traveler information, and the line to get your bus ride to town. They take VISA/MC/AmEx, which is a good thing, as I understand that the bus ticket, in cash, takes exact money, and I have no idea what that is! Cost today was about 35 US, and that was for a round trip. You get a discount if you get the round trip at purchase time, and it is open ended. Once on board, they bring you to a downtown station, tell you if you need to go to a mini bus, or stay on the big one while they make the rounds of the hotels and hostels. Don't be afraid to ask and show them your paperwork, our American tongues will mutilate their language all too easily!
The Hostel itself- note that check in time is usually two PM, and the bus will get you here at about 9:30 or 10 AM....lucky for me, there is a comfy couch in the lounge area for power napping. In the room, I have to myself, for a small surcharge, there are 5 beds, in bunk and trundle style, a set of hooks, some mini lockers that lock up nice and safe, and a private shower/toilet and sink. With hostels it is bring your own bedding, or you can rent it form them. Do bring your own towel. Very basic, but dry, warm and with plumbing, not bad for about 30 US a night. They do have a breakfast option, but then again, you can cook in the common kitchen area.
Also of note, the hot water from the tap does have a high sulfur content and the requisite odor. Cold water is another thing entirely! Let it run a moment to clear the line and you have that wonderful stuff we buy in the bottles back home! From the tap! FANTASTIC!
So, other than being dead tired from only about two hours of any sort of sleep in the last 25 or so, I will blog up, head for the grocery store for some food stuff, and then likely sleep until about noon tomorrow! Unless I get up for that fishing trip I want to take while I am here...we will see!

Tomorrow, the ride from the airport and local observations!

BEYOND VINELAND

2010-06-02T11:28:00.000-07:00

So today begins the journey to Iceland.
I am using a new netbook for this trip instead of the palm, the typing should be a bit better, though the keyboard is tiny for my fingers and HS learned typing method, so excuse any extra letters in words that i might miss!
The volcano has settled ( did i mention I knew it would) and I look forwArd to seeing a new land and meeting many new people.
The Sacramento airport is still nice, despite their effortsa to build a single big terminal. I sort of like this one. Security was nice enough, and they all were friendly and helpful, be nice to the cattle for they provide your pay! three hours early they want you to check in, it took 10 minutes to get through security, so i get to sit for three hours with my carry on stuff waiting, and watching the poor little finch that is stuck inside the terminal looking for an opening at the big windows. One presi=umes from the lack of concern on the part of the employees and staff that it is a common occurance here.
first stop ois Seattle, then on to Keflavik airport, and the bus to Reykjavik!
In preperation i have set my watch to GMT, or Zulu hour, mostly so i do not miss the return flight, i will be 7 hours ahead of you all back in California, it will be like time travel, seeing into the future! The SKYPE will be in use on this trip, so I will be able to let you all know how it is for phoning home from afar!
next instZllment will be form the land of Fire and Ice!

The winner is!

2009-07-08T10:59:00.001-07:00

The post cards began arriving last Friday and I think they are all in now. Hmmm, Amtrak is faster than the postal service form Canada/US.
I guess I am a little surprised that it really did take them that long. I figured a day or two after the train got in, but not the four plus that it actually took!

Did I mention that the pottery bits I packed to bring home survived the tender ministrations of the baggage folks at the train station.

I did notice that in areas where the people could actually see them handling the baggage, it was very kid glove treatment, carefully placing and gentle moving of the bags and packages. Feh, I was harder on the bags than they tried to show folks! Of course, what happens under the train, or in the building where no one sees is another matter entirely. We all should know this and pack/pad, secure accordingly! My Ex used to load aircraft for the Air force, a box marked Fragile was a clear target and test of your packing skills to them.
I am rather astounded at the number of items people try to carry on a conveyance when it gives a clearly stated limit. Of course there are a few things they do not count, like purses, laptops or briefcases, but still, if you can't handle it in one trip, don;t be slowing everyone else down by trying to haul your 35 plastic bags of junk in five trips up and down the stairs, and making everyone else rush to get on before they pull out, AND try to find room in the overhead past all your bags! If it ain't over your own seat, then I think it ought to be fair game for us to peek and see it it's anything good!

That news story about the lack of baggage security on the train?
Well, yes, they are pretty lax about it, but then MOST folks on the train are pretty good, no one jacks anyone's luggage, at least not that I have ever seen, though trains in New York city area might be all bets off according to the one New Yorker I met.
The reason I like the train is that it is not a great hassle like travel by air, for bag inspection, metal detectors, two hour early arrival for security stuff, etc.
I say if you catch folks doing illegal stuff on the train, you dump them in the middle of the Nevada Desert, turn over their ill gotten gains/goods to the authorities, and call it good. If they make it back to civilization, they then get to deal with the cops.

Anyone else out there like to travel by train?

The great race

2009-06-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

well, as we know by now...I am home, no sign of postcards yet..anyone? Suz- i sent yours to the lab, cause i sort of still remember the address, one to mom, one to home, and i think one other one...maybe not- feh. Oh yeah Julie and the office. So...Amtrak wins the race!

Das Blog

2009-06-28T12:56:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have had some rest, and can now feel the cramps in my body from strange positions in a state they might try to call sleep!
I may not have kept myself hydrated enough on the train, I have a lower back twinge that might be trying to tell me something other than a muscle cramp, we will see.

So, I thought I might summarize some of the general bits about traveling Amtrak, and going coach class. This is not intended to scare anyone, just to make you aware.

Specific to the Coast Starlight, and the California Zephyr...

Coach is a reserved seat on the train. If you want the lower level, where they tend to NOT put the kids, you might have to pay a little extra.
The seats are two across with no middle arm. They recline about half way, and have both a foot rest and a leg rest, that if it works, can get to almost the level of the seat. There is a seat back tray, and most now have 120 vt electrical outlets for use along the wall under the windows, so you can bring small appliances like portable DVD, or laptops, etc.
Seat width holds my fat butt, so you do have a fair amount of room. Leg room is unheard of if you are used to air travel, this is spacious, though a few very tall folks might have a bit of trouble.
The restrooms are downstairs, and have a single large "handicapped" stall, and about 5 smaller stalls, that I can back into, but not much else. There is a small dressing room at the end of the bathroom group, with a single stall to the right inside the door, a double sink, stool and short bench, no lock on the change door though, so be aware, or bring a post it that says occupied for when you use it.
As the rest rooms are shared in coach, and there are more than a few slobs i the general population, i highly suggest carrying a container of clorox or lysol wipes for that pre-use freshening up of the facilities. I have even been known to drop a wipe or two on the floor and do a bit of tidying there as well.

There is a dining car on most of the trains with overnight routes, and snack cars as well, though you are allowed to bring your own food aboard. You will want to keep things either cool or hot on your own, as they will be able to give you hot water, or maybe some ice, but no use of the microwave or frdge.
There are water dispensers and tiny cups upstairs at the stair well, and downstairs, as well as in the restrooms.
Staff on the train are people. Some are friendlier than others, and some seem to be there because they want their check. Customer service runs the spectrum. I have had (NOT this last trip) car attendants who locked the restroom because people were being pigs , and would not open it, even when I said I would clean it up)
The car attendant is different from the conductor.

If you are traveling overnight,be aware that the air handling on the train can be cool or warm, or whatever. Bring your carry-on with a change of pants/shirt for long or short, and a light blanket, a fleece throw should be enough. Some folks bring a pillow, and the horseshoe neck pillow is a good idea, but not the only one.

If you are going some distance, be sure to look closely at the station list to see if they handle checked baggage. Not all stations offer this service, and your big bags will count towards your carry on. There are "baggage limits", though I have never seen them enforce it really. Some folks get on and bring more bags than I can count. You don't want your bags in luggage to keep traveling while you take a whistle stop!

Dining is family style, so you will have to think of it like a mixer, you get to meet new people, and it is expected that you will make conversation and talk about who you are, where you are headed and be friendly. Think of it as train etiquette.
While carry on baggage is accessible during the ride, it is also considered bad manners to mess in anyone elses' bags. Some of the larger bags are stowed downstairs in racks, and might be out of your sight. Of course one should never place anything dear or valuable in these bags, it is still very rare to have anyone mucking about in them. If concerned, get the little luggage locks and use them.
hmm, maybe still not rested enough, more later! nap now.

pictures

2009-06-27T21:50:00.001-07:00

this is a short link to some of the almost 500 pictures... pics

as a slideshow
slieds

To Market to Market, I cooked up the pig

2009-06-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

Home again, home again, jiggity jig.

Have I mentioned that I love a good hot shower?
It's good to be home. The first bottle of maple syrup has been delivered. With luck (and consciousness) I will get some pictures up sometime tonight so you can see the mayhem that was wrought across our fine country. Thanks to everyone for putting up with the strange typos and bouncy spelling. I blame the palm device and the train motion. The high points of the ride home were captured in the previous posts, though we never did see anyone provide the traditional river raft greeting to the train. Bum-er (he he). Little rain coming into Colorado but nice weather the rest of the way home. I really do prefer dry heat if I have to have extra heat. As we crossed the Utah desert headed for Provo, and again through the Nevada basin, I wondered to myself how many of our early settlers questioned their choices and asked themselves "we paid how much for that freaking map?" Just imagine wasteland and mountain ranges over and over wondering when, if ever, they will end. Thank god I was on the train! Considering all the stations we were late into, we actually arrived in Sacramento almost 40 minutes early. Amazing!
Would I do it again?
Take the train? Yes, I have a good idea of the little things to take to ensure my comfort if I travel in coach. If I travel with someone else, I will consider the sleeper car. When you add the cost of meals and a hotel each night, I think it is about comparable.
Trip to Canada? Yes, although if I travel for re-enacting, I think my best option is to drive and bring the items I know I will need. It's difficult to coordinate long distance for the needs of tasks requested. Not impossible, just difficult. Things could have gone either way with the feast I was asked to do. Luck was on my side along with some great helpers. Had it been the originally planned event, things might have turned out not so well.
Take buses by myself? Yes, though I still can't read a bus schedule. I just asked the driver of every bus that comes up if they go where I need.

So, I'll work on the pictures and if anyone has questions I will try to answer.

There was a question about Canada Tire Bucks and yes I did get some, but Nessie grabbed them and said "We don't use these" and stuffed them in the donation tub.

Solar shower would have been good on Sunday when it was sunny. I took a shower Saturday in the rain. It just wasn't hot.

Note:
Canada is pushing the recycle and they charge a nickle for bags at the stores. You can buy wonderful canvas shopping bags as well as poly plastic styles for one to three bucks each. I think I paid 99 cents for the Sobeys grocery store canvas bags.
If they would just get some decent iced tea.

AAAIIIIIEEEE GET ME OUT OF HERE!!!

2009-06-27T18:42:00.001-07:00

6
I think it was about 2 am at some stop in the flat states and there was a blood curdling scream. A family traveling with a two and a half year old had just boarded. The little one was in fear for her life and wanted OFF! I think, after the half hour of screaming, more than one passenger was ready to oblige. Poor thing, all she knew was middle of the night, giant noisy machine and she gets carried into the belly of the beast. She is much better today.
Sleeping last night for me was in small doses. Not quite enough, but better than none. Noise, other than the one really awakening moment, was not the issue so much as not being able to move my legs around so much as I might have liked. I did go to the little change room and take over the couch for about twenty minutes. I was able to take off my shoes and elevate my feet and legs for about ten minutes each. That helped a lot. The little bottle of wine didn't hurt either I think.
The morning opened with misty rain and very low clouds over high grass prarie. There were cattle grazing and calves would jump up and bounce out of the grass looking for their cowx as the train came by. Acres of sunfloers were all turned to the east waiting for the sunrise .

apologies to Prince

2009-06-27T18:40:00.000-07:00

5
Nice added nap, and almost to Chicago. I will nab a little something to eat then off to the edifice formerly known as Sear's Tower. I might even pay to take the tour! I think though, I will need to buy a hat first. My hair sort of went a bit wild last night, so if I want the locals to be friendly towards me instead of thinking I am a bag lady...
So, took the tour, skydeck is closed, so we only go to 99 not 103- stiill pops your ears. You start ina sub-basement ant for no extra charge- the bathroom is next to a generator or other machinery...free massage!
So, wild times at the station resulting in no time to upload, so you will get the whole pile when I get home.
There are rivers and canals through the downtown which today seemed to add to the humidity. Walking back from the tower, there's a slight odor like the
sidewalks along the walls need to be hosed off each morning. Faint, yet noticable.
Immediately outside the station near the bridge to Sears tower, on the right at the corner I’d the Corner Bakery where I stopped for a great sandwich, and fantastic fresh brewed iced tea. Joy!
I was told that THE thing is to try an Italian beef sandwich. I guess that will have to wait until next time. Besides , I think I have to plan a longer stay in Chicago si I can go see David Parr'a show, as well as Neil Tobin, and of course, I will have to take Eugene for dinner. Just a matter of coordination in the scheduling.
I also tried a Chicago style grilled dog. The relish is an alien green, yet oddly tasty. My great joy? Sacrilege to put catsup on a dog in this town! My kind of town.

Anachreon rules or Bacchus, can you here me?

2009-06-27T18:38:00.000-07:00

4
It is about 0730 local time, and I actually slept pretty well last night. A college boy across from me was sleeping very well. He just woke up and tossed his trash. There were two empty cans labeled Budweiser. I might have to remember the effect wine has on me if I have trouble sleeping. They do sell it on the train.

We are rolling gently on the siding so a freight train can go by. One of the flat states, and the town of Edgarton, the water tower, like the homes, is clean and neat, looking like the paint is kept up. Neatly trimmed lawns surround the home like a smooth green ocean, dotted with island of white, and beige wooden volcanoes. The orange painted head of a bulldog stands sentinel on that tower, facing out ovrt the town, a wary eye tyrne
towards the tracks that pass near, bringing and taking all manner of things.
The freight passed by heading the way we have just come from, and we pick up speed.
All along the tracks are these towns, their animal guardian sometimes visible. Their home standing firm, almost challenge the great noisy behemoth to try and make them into cities and metropolitan centers. Resistance abounds. Smooth asphalt lined with a webbing of black meanders give tell to cracks in this defense. One town holds a stately two story bick home, it's columns of wood, and gingerbread trim, no longer clean and white. Not all is well in the small towns of America. There are strips between where one tamed right of ways have grown back along the railway giving a sense of wildness, a tangle of wills and purpose. Yes, just through the tangle you see fields freshly plowed or tall with corn and crops. If you look closely though you see standing water from summer rains, and patched of barren soil among the bright green fields.
We, as a whole, are in too much of a hurry. In everything we do. We miss the magic in the world we are part of, and we miss the signposts that try to tell us thzt if we fail to see, acknowledge, and take right actions, it will be irretrievably lost to us.

From this vantage point, I can glimpse both sides of the track. The perseverence astounds, and yet, as we near larger towns and cities my concerns grow. I already wrote about the empty buildings that once held manufacturing and jobs. The visual clues to the level of concern are painted on every surface and littering the ground. Take heed. Rember the universal laws: everything is going somewhere ; everything is connected to everything else ; there's no such thing as a free lunch!

Perhaps breakfast will provide less somber insights, though there is nothing wrong with revealing my ability to be serious and thoughtful from time to time.
So remember todays train tip...they DO sell alcohol on board.

midnight , and train has not come yet..

2009-06-27T18:37:00.000-07:00

3
Get me to the station on time...
It is now minight, the train was supposed to leave at 1159 pm. I was okay on the bus and back in plenty of time. Train is an hour and 15 minutes late according to the station people. In their defense the ticket does say not responsible for delays, and I know there is track work, it is just thst I am soooo tired. Ugh!
Train and travel tip:
Slip on shoes for the train at night, and warm cushy socks. It is nice to remove your shoes for naps and sleeping, but if you need to get up, speedy shoe application is a good thing. No light slippets though as if you have to go to another car for anything you want be sure you keep your toes in plac. The connection vestibule between cars has slider plates, but if there is much vertical bounce,it looks judt like a bid metal shear.
who needs all their toes!?

Bbback in the U S of Aaaaaa

2009-06-27T18:34:00.000-07:00

2
Rolled across the border on the Via train...
Mag-I-cally now Amtrak
Waiting for thre border guards to do their thing
My seat is stuck and laying back
Back in the , back in the US OF A aaaa

So, train is stopped in Niaga foor border check, and I think I was about to get a Silkwood scrubdown. They wanted to know if I had been on any farms...duh! Was there any mud on my shoes or clothes...well, maybe, it did rain for three days and the lawns and parks were a bit soggy, then there was that wander along the great lake, a bit muddy there. So they pulled about a dozen folks off for 'second interview ', the labbies all know what that means. I guess the syrup from the farm, and my not so caked shoes were too small of a potato.
Note for border crossing, if you have fruits or vegetable items, then be sure thry are cut up, and bagged. It seems those will pass the checkpoints. Must be processed in some way.

Arrived on time into Depew, checked the bags, stored one and took the bus to the Borders for tea and reading materials. May mosey to the Olive Garden across the street for early dinner then catch the number 6 bus back to the train station to read and nap until the 11:59 pm to Chicago train.
As you see, I am getting brave about the buses.
I even told 'foreigners' which bus to take to get to the mall! Hey,
Maybe I will try a bus in Chicago tomorrow! I have a last chance to see the tower and get a couple of last few goodies for people , oh! Don't forget, Tory has a birthday on the 30th.....send her a birthday wish at least.
Warm and humid here in Buffalo / Depew, so sipping tea in borders to stay cool and comfy...hoping for wireless, and worried that the music from Chess (playing on the stoe speakers ) will be stuck in my head. I guess it will be a change from the train songs, heading out it was Chattanooga Choo Choo, and todaythe sights along the ack, and the old section of non-welded rail brought City of New Orleans, which still exists.
It was the 'graveyards of the rusted automobile' that did it just east of Niagra.
Opted for dinner at the garden, and am glad to finally be able to get real iced tea in a decent sized glass- and bottomless to. It might seem strange to you, but it really comes down to the small comforts. Whie in Canada, I asked about hot tea, and a large cup of just ice, and they don't seem to get it. I would have to pay for a large < their version of large- not mine > beverage for just the ice, and also pay for the tea. I also am bemused by whar appears to be an ice shortage when it comes to beverage service. One is lucky to get three or four small cubes in the glass of water.
We will see what adventure remains, and try to fill the camera before arriving home!
Will post from Chicago as wireless here is 8ucks a day, and screen is too small for more than an hour at a time.
Until next time!
Chiao.

almost time to go...

2009-06-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

1
Tuesday and we went to Springridge farm for berry picking and more maple syrup, so I think I have all the bottles I need for everyone along with a few other little goodies.
Very tasty strawberries.
i wonder what Oma will make with them?

We had sushi tonight, all you can eat, decent tasting, and quality for under twenty bucks Canadian.

Postcards are stamped and waiting for the race to begin.
Two hours on the train, then 11 hours in Depew/Buffalo. I think I will take one of the bus tours to niagra falls, hope I have enough space in my camera !
Time for bed, early start.....

pardon me hey, is that...

2009-06-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

1
Tuesday and we went to Springridge farm for berry picking and more maple syrup, so I think I have all the bottles I need for everyone along with a few other little goodies.
Very tasty strawberries.
We had sushi tonight, all you can eat, decent tasting, and quality for under twenty bucks Canadian.
Postcards are stamped and waiting for the race to begin.
Two hours on the train, thhen 11 hours in
Buffalo. I think I will take one of the bus tours to niagra falls, hope I have enough space in my camera !
Time for bed, early start.....

tyrsday-not thorsday

2009-06-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

Tyr'a day
Good! It will be nice to have an infusion of Tyr energy.
I was just thinking that I probably walked about three or four miles yesterday. I know, I know, Koby does 20 miles everyday, uphill, both directions, before breakfast! Still I think that 4 miles is pretty good for me, at least that's what my feet and legs are telling me.
Birte, Askjel and Inga are headed to the airport for their return flights this morning, so safe traveling to them all. If you have any interest in silver jewelry then absolutely check them out. Askjel has figured out how some of the wonderful items were constrcted in the past, and Birte'a attention to details in the wax work is fantastic. They do more than viking age pieces and boy is it all a delight.
Www.urweg.com
Go, now, see their things, buy from them. you ca. Be sure of hisorically accurate items from them if this is what you seek. They also hace some of the highest ethical standards I know when it comes to artifacts and their reproduction.
Today, I will go in search of maple syrups, and maybe a few other tidbits.
I propse an experiment. I will buy some postcards and stamps, and when I leave in the morning, I will post them to the mail. We will then see if the train is faster than the mail service.

shoes!

2009-06-23T08:57:00.000-07:00

Shoes at BATA

Of course I picked a day to go when about half the permanent exhibits weren't available. Undaunted, I meandered through and took lots of pictures. In some ways, shoes are unique in their areas through history and in some cases, you see the same basic form repeated, over more than half the world. Saw several pairs of footwear dyed dark chocolate brown be walnuts.....very Nice. Now if I could just remember who I was having That conversation with.
After the Bata, I moseyed over to the ROM. The Royal Ontario Museum , for a poke about. They have an exhibition on right now with a portion of the dead sea scrolls found in their collection. Many school kids there, and very busy, so I wandered other areas.
Notably the European section on arms and armor. There is rhe obligatory nod to the 'vikings' with an interesting sword (about 750-850) that Nessie says was found in Canada. I will try to find the provenance for the item and let you know. I must say that the museum bike racks outside and the pillars in the underground train station for the museum are not to be missed.
Toronto fashion for warm days includes the 'pedal pusher' pants. On men and women, all ages, bicycle or no. Oh, and Toronto business suits are predominantly blues. Just a note for traveling executives. Of course fashion could change next year.
I found most everyone willing to help the crazy American use the trains, buses, or just plain find her way. Canada and her people seem to get a bit maligned or bashed now and then, usually unfairly. They do only have a tenth of the population of the US, as Nessie keeps telling me, but they have to stop using that as an excuse. They live here, they have come here for many reasons. The countryside and the cities are reasonably clean, the air isn't heavy with smog yet, and most of all, the people were actually friendly. Before I say much more, realize I have not been to a couple of the provences just yet, and so I make no claims yet for them!

ok Canada, that last part was a joke...
So- I took the transit system and train back tourlington by myself! And didn't get lost or end up in Ottawa, or Montreal.

hot water

2009-06-22T20:49:00.000-07:00

4
Sunday and the sun is out! Yahoo!!!
Alas, I think you can guess, I fell asleep before the big solstice fire. Um, yeah, that's it.

We had a good number of visitors today. Perhaps not as many as hoped for, but all in all not to bad a turnout for the first time for an event.
The fighters did their battles and made much noise and bashing. Mr. Foote the potter did an onsite clamp fireing, and was kind enough to share some with me.
His pottery is nicely done and quite correct for our use. Grainne, his fine wife was working felt on a board, and works with manuscripts. I have his card, and will post the contact information after I return home. They come from Orangevale, Ontario province.

I so long for a hot shower, pleeeeeeease. Yes, I get to sluice off tonight and be free of insects.
I am still trying to figure out how I had so many insect bits in the bottom of the tub! Oh my goodness though I feel much better.

With luck, tomorrow I will venture into the wilds of Toronto to see das boots, and other footwear at the Bata shoe museum. I probably should be going with Nessie back out to the farm to help clean things and get it back to normal....but I have to leave on Wednesday and I might not get another chance this trip. I will be facing the bus and commuter train, by myself to get back here, keep your fingers crossed I don't end up in Montreal, we can only wonder about the French words I know!

summer time, and i wish it were breezy...

2009-06-21T23:26:00.000-07:00

4
Sunday and the sun is out! Yahoo!!!
Sure, it is feeling a bit warm, how about some of ladt night's breeze? i know, never satisfied
We had a good number of visitors today. Perhaps not as many as hoped for, but all in all not to bad a turnout for the first time for an event.
The fighters did their battles and made much noise and bashing. Mr. Foote the potter did an onsite clamp fireing, and was kind enough to share some with me.
His pottery is nicely done and quite correct for our use. Grainne, his fine wife was working felt on a board, and works with manuscripts. I have his card, and will post the contact information after I return home. They come from Orangevale, Ontario province.

I so long for a hot shower, pleeeeeeease. Yes, I get to sluice off tonight and be free of insects. And with luck, I will venture into the wilds of Toronto to see das boots, and other footwear at the Bata shoe museum. I probably should be going with Nessie back out to the farm to help clean things and get it back to normal....but I have to leave on Wednesday and I might not get another chance this trip. I will be facing the bus and commuter train, by myself to get back here, keep your fingers crossed I don't end up in Montreal, we can only wonder about the French words I know!

Ankh! Moore rk!

2009-06-21T23:14:00.000-07:00

3
Saturday saw much rain, and a few people for the most part of the day. Rain settled to drizzle and wonderful folks joined to help with the preparations for dinner. Evan was a master of getting the big fire started and helping to get the roasted pig heated up.
I ended up with a one pot meal, in proper viking tradition, of roasted veggie, carrots, leeks, parsnips, onion and cabbage. Oh yes, and all that pork.
Desert was sour cream with berries. We also had some fine natural apple juice and apple-cranberry juice, and flat breads.
While I got many compliments on the food, I confess that Denninger's did the heavy work on the pigs, I can only take credit for having a couple of great helpers who managed to support and make sure we had everything ready and hot on time. Thanks to you all, many times over! Evan, Melissa, Marcia and Liz, thank you again all.
I am f e e l I n g v e r y s l e e py.
Not sure that I will last for the actual Solstice celebration, but then, we all know about me and fire ceremonies.
I did have a fantastic time visiting with the wife of the local fire marshal. They are both First Nation peoples. We had an incredible time talking about creation tales and stories as well as wandering the meadows discussing the plants and their many uses.

rain, rain, go away..

2009-06-21T23:06:00.000-07:00

2
Morning, drizzle and nice breakfast. I have learned the secret of milk in canada. What? Milk? In the markets around here, they sell milk in plastic bags. I know! Bags. Who would have thought. It seems there is a special pitcher used to hold the Bag, snip the corner and pour. Very cute, it looks like the tupperware Minnie mouse pitcher in shape, only bigger.
Well, still trying to make sure that I can pull this off. Slightly nervous about it, but, then again, I am confident that this IS doable, just concerned regarding the weather and fire aspect, nothing critical. Have fridge full of roasted pig. Big hunks those......hmmm, this will be interesting alright.

D-day

2009-06-21T22:57:00.000-07:00

1
First day/night on the farm, the event site, at least for me.
The little village of vikings is setting up nicely and everything is so very green.
The carniverous insect have found me tender and, it would seem, a bit tasty. Let's see how well the DEET works.--- nicely is a bit alcohol-ish in the vapor area.

I have met some fine folks who also enjoy re-enacting, and have a willingness to share and trade information, as well as goods.

How silly of me to forget that I am basically on, or in, the East coast, at least as a USer. There are fireflies here! How cool is that! As a long time CalIfornio, you must remember I don't get to see them unless I travel. These seemed to have a more blue white light, and I think the ones in Philly as a kid were more yellow in color, but hey! Lightning Bugs!!!
The peepers, frogs and toads abound too, with many birds. I have seen ones I know like starlings, robins, and corvids, then sparrows and blackbirds, though the red and yellow wing seemed new to me. The is a flicker, though nor red shafted, more yellow underneath. I have heard more birds than I have seen, and many of the little ones, while not fearless, do come in fairly close.
3am, and I wake up to the sound of rain on the screen shade roof. No heavy, just steady. Now I am happy for the wool. As we learned at Estrella, wet wool might be wet, but it is still able to stay warm in rainy locations (snow is another concren, but not for the event.)
Some of the fireflies have graced me by sending their strange code of flashes from my screen tent wall!
Back to sleep, we will see how tomorrow fares for weather and visitors.

DAS BUS

2009-06-18T15:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks and thanks again to Nessie's mom for going with me today on the bus shopping. I found most of what I needed at a place called Canada Tire. Think of it like a Canadian version of a big box most everything store, including tires.
They had the little screen hose thing I couldn't find in wallyworld, AND they had the camp grill for use over open fire. Canada Tire, eh! When in the north, try them first, I wish I had, it would have saved me much time and stress, for sure eh.
Also, we fixed the zipper, I hope, and I should be able to arrive home in one piece. Just in case, I bought a roll of duct-tape, at..(guess which store eh?) for sure!
Should I be afraid now that these thinks are going well? Harbinger of hope? Or shadows os ill omen?
Look! A puppy!.....

summer time, and the weather is soggy...

2009-06-18T08:07:00.000-07:00

3
Today I attempt to fix the luggage to get ready for the trip home next week. It was a new item, brought and bought just so I could bring my big pot with me. I guess my pot was just too much for it! I have thursday to get a few odds and ends taken care of, and the bag is one of them. It is a good thing I don't golf, this is a soft sided golf traveling bag, and if I were using it for clubs, etc. I might be a bit cranky about possibly loosing a club or nine.

When in the wilds of Canada, a quality insect repellant is a must have, unless it is raining, then even the bugs know to go in out of the rain.
I wouldn't call it hard rain, but there is a lovely wet misr in the air, and on the ground with not much sign of the sun so far.
The vikings begin arriving in larger groups today and getting things set up.
I am contemplating the best way to maintain sanitary and stay comfy / dry if the raining keeps up. I think the two packs of nylon cord are on my desk and not with my nylon shelter tarp, so in addition to bug juice when I shop today...now if the silly ATM card would work correctly.
Travelers note, be sure banking is in place and functional before departure. I know, I hear you say to simply use the credit card, but I really hate the credt traps that result from this, and with economic times, I really only want to spend money I actually have in hand (or bank), not what is in the future.
oh! i can see more than gray, it's a start.
well, Nessie's mom is taking me on the buses to the store today while She totes things out to the site, and makes a couple more pickups of folks. i go out tomorrow, and will be there until Sunday, so i will blog and send them off sunday night, probably one more this evening though.
hope all are having a good week, the weather is nice wherever you are, and that some of my ramblings are at least amusing!
k

all i wanted was tea!

2009-06-17T22:35:00.000-07:00

2
Canada seems to be a lands of contradiction. It is a bit hard to explain. The average person you meet is nice enough, but they start to get defensive when I let them know I am from the US. Now, I admit I got a little cranky when my glass of iced tea was abot 2.85 Canadian, and it was an 8oz. Cup, but when the refill meant I bought another one, well, you KNOW how much I like my iced tea!
And don't get me started on how most of the aces only offer bottled teas- bleah.
For a provine thet touts ther English background, one would think they wouldn't tolerate that poor excuse for tea!
Oh my, but Burlington has some exquisite homes, very British in style and look. Fabulous abodes, at least from the outside (and many with accent here sound a bit British) then there are a few homes, either new, or being built that seem to be architecture gone wild, combining elements that make roccoco look a bit tame....slap some bullion fringe on that bad boy and call it style...
a place of contradiction, though I am sure they say that about us.
Well, I hope this rain gets done tomorrow so the weekend is clear for the event, and right now I am happy that I packed more wool than linen to wear, though that could change by Saturday.

Toronto in the rain

2009-06-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

1
Wednesday the 17th of June and I am in a mini-van headed to Toronto airport for some arrivals of other vikings, Birte & Askjel, and their little one Inga.
Hard rain and a crazy driver make this interesting! Actually, Nessie is not that bad of a driver, , I just have to tease her a bit. Very focused.

They set up the big tent today, and the nice man delivered 4 refrigerators and got the electrical lines set for the food area.
I got to meet the neighbors (the lady of the house is named...Kay!....and they have two labs, one yellow and one black, and and older white and grey kitty, so I managed a little bit of kitty fix.
While the big feast is not going to happen this year, we should be able to get some things set and ready for next time.
I am still doing some cooking though mostly for the crew and site vikings.
I will be mondo busy Saturday, but I should have time to do a little weaving and magic.

They have some things I know up here, like Costco, and wally-land, and even fast foods. Wendy's up here uses a ,maple leaf for the apostrophe, I will try to get a picture. They are the, but not the same.
To semi-quote the BBC show, the Irish RM "things are done differently here."
I have one for Drury Lane, but I still have noy seen the muffin man. i'm keeping an eye out for him though.

They have a store here called Denninger's, it is a German market and they have many strange things. Mustards in dispenser tubes, and squeeze bottles of curry catsup. Dark Lindt chocolate bars made with chiles-shudder-I like the store, cool jars of strange delights, half of which I cannot read. Very German things, and two local papers auf Deutsche for me to practice with and make Nessie's mom laugh.
Nessies mom made wild blueberry spelt pancakes for breakfast, and I tried a bottle of tree sap I bought at the market-yummm! Ah heck, the wild berries are frozen fromB.C., but they were still most yummy. Nessie's mom makes yummy cakes, and I am talking bred with her in hopes of getting an apple cake recipie from her, mmmm crunchy sugar crust on the apples, yummy!
So I guess I have to bring some maply syrup home.
I think someone needs the curry squeezeee, and who knows what else I will find. Venison salami is interesting, but I don't think it will travel well for the return trip.
Any special requests, I know Suzanne wants syrup, how big a tin/bottle, or should I bring a sampler pack of several different small ones?
I have some pretty rocks from lake Ontario! Anyone? ;}

Oh Canada!

2009-06-16T06:43:00.000-07:00

4

We cleared the border, and I didn't get strip searched, what a relief!
An hour behind schedule but like they say, better late than never.
Canada got game baybee-most hoses and nearly all businesses are flying the big Maple leaf flag, and more than a couple are flying two or more! I did one company with Stars and Stripes up there too.
At lest the ones I can see from the train are sporting colors!

I did see the Niagara falls as we went over the river bridge, and I tried for a photo, but there is another bridge right at train
Window level. It might be nothing but bridge!
I have got remember to swap some money soon, I was able to get a sandwiche (oh look-- it is spelling in Canadian for me) with my filthy greenbsck lucre, but I know that will change in just a couple hours.

Have I mentioned today how much I like welded railway tracks? There is some rough rail on both sides of the border.don't get me wrong, I love clickety klack, but trying to type the blog entry is a true test.
More on arrival and after a hot shower.(for all my labbies out there)

Mooove over Buffalo

2009-06-16T06:41:00.000-07:00
3
Sunrise and actual sun! I watched it slowly burning the fog from the fields in Ohio and Pennsylvania. Most of Ohio passed in the night, and Toledo was a bit early for cognitive thought today.
Passed by part of the shore on lake Erie, someone on the train asked "which ocean that was?"
Pennsylvania is getting some grape fields in, any New York is bragging on their wines from the finger lake region,specifically calling a challenge to Napa valley!
Caught t
E right bus back to the station -first try!
Picked up the big bag to consoldate for the carry on only portion of the trip...I knew things were going too well.
I blew out the zipper! Not just not closing, oh no! The zipper pulled off of the nylon fabric of the bag, or rather shredded itself to a state of freedom!
Dang, I didn't pack any duct-tape. I did pack my heavy duty sewing kit, and used that along with my belt. I only need it to hold another 6 or so hours till I get to Nessie's. Once I unpack, I will try for a better repair job for the return trip.

Slowly rolling into Buffalo I wa a bit saddened by the number of fabulous buildings, wonderful brick architecture, standing vacant, a testament to our decline in US manufacturing. I will y to get some pictures before heading home.
Not sure of the population, but Stockton might be bigger.
My list of states visited (airports do not count) is growing! I will soon have the contiguous stes covered, and Alaska is done, Hawaii and a couple territories elude me!

summer evening

2009-06-16T06:39:00.000-07:00
2
Lakeshore limited is single level coach seating.
Eleven hours to Buffalo / Depew, then a bit of wait until the Maple Leaf for Canada.
Likely not much tonight as it is dark out. With luck tomorrow will be a view and photograph of Niagara falls. Or at least the river.
Sounds like the conductor is calling for tickets.

I was next to a young woman heading to New York.
Across the aisle from me was James, who had been on the train since Martinez. I was heading to get a sandwiche, and asked James if I could bring him something from the snack bar. Likewise I asked my seat neighbor, who gave a short decline.
It was a sad thing to hear her say that she keeps to herself as her experience is no one does for you unless there is an underlying self interest. She did eventually engage in a bit of conversation, and when offered the use of one of my light cloaks for the air conditioned train, she accepted. I hope she can have positive experiences in her life!

Windy...

2009-06-16T06:38:00.000-07:00
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Well, I guess I don't know what I expected here at Union Station in Chicago.
It is big, and the underground train gates are impressive. I guess I was expecting something not quite so modern, perhaps something a bit more art-deco.
It is, though very efficient, and if you travel through here, ask and be certain where you need to be and when. When they say last call for boarding, they really mean it!
I have seen 4 people get turned back, missing their train.

I have decided that Iowa is the rumply bit of earthen carpet between the two flattened bits of Illinois and Nebraska. Yep, it is flat here too. At one point in the cloudy weather, I thought I saw a tornado!
It turned out to be just a smudge on thr train window.

CHICAGO !!!

2009-06-14T15:53:00.000-07:00
SO!
i am in chicago at a mcdonalds for wi-fi
3 bucks for two hours so i have to type sort of quickly.
late arriving and lets see, 4 pm in Ca, so6 pm here? and the train leavesat 9pm, so bear with any wild typing, i think the copy and paste from palm word is the way to go!
next installment will have more info, as it took me 20 minutes to figure out how to connect.
i know the multiple packet posting sort of defeats the daily blog, so keep fingers crossed that i find a wi-fi in Depew tomorrow, or Canada at the latest, providind the Mounties let me over the border!

i tell you, sleeper car looks better and better every day- if only i was not so damn cheap!

getting there is half the fun !

2009-06-14T15:52:00.001-07:00
Iowa comes with hills!
Not that I saw anything really big, but there are hills.
I saw some scenic treats courtesy of some locals who live along the tracks. What appeared to be a row of birdhouses on a tall rack made to look like trains. There's more but i'm not telling! You will have to make a train trip of your own to see them all!
Many homes in this area fly their flags prominently in their yards, and they have a number of quinticential red barns.

Train question: given the rocking motion and the drunken stagger when walking in the cars, would a couple of daquaries even things out?

whew, are we there yet?

2009-06-14T15:50:00.000-07:00
Brightness in the night
I woke up to the fires
Flahing in the night
Lightening in the sky
Lighting up the clouds in the middle of the night

As Snoopy used to type, "it was a dark and stormy night"

We were about an hour late into Omaha, our conductor thought likely due to the weather.
The bonus, or bright spot is if the schedule holds, time, in Chicago will go faster. Nothing against Chicago, I mean, I have never been there except for delays at the airport. And hey, some of my best buds are in/from Chicago! It's just that I hear not much is open on a Sunday, so not sure how far I will wander from the station.
Sears tower is on my list, along with a wi-fi, but it might be too late for the tower today, so that will happen on the return if need be

Nebraska has a lot to see as the train rolls along.
Farms, fields and small towns. The main feature...it is very flat. I mean it, flat!
That said, we are boooking along and I expect they will make some of that time up.

I am trying to think when was the last time I saw a red sunrise. I know the old sailor's addage about red skies,but I always felt that was for the coast, and not the inland. Regardless it was right pretty to wake up to.

are you bored yet

2009-06-14T15:48:00.000-07:00
Denver at 7pm,we are here until 8pm. Not wanting to take any chances, I am staying near the train.

Clouds and rainfall in Colorado. Very green snd lush along the rivers both the Colorado and the Frazier.
Unfortunate that yhey are having beetles kill the pine trees, major fire hazard, seriuosly. They are also battling the Tamarask trees along the river. (they have hsd park interpretors on the train,) it seems that the importation of the tamarask beetle has been a boon in controlling the plants, lets hope that is really all they will eat!

I have had dinner in the diner both evenings, and had nice visits with other travelers. I even had occasion to invite a young man to test his powers of imagination! ;]
There are folks headed to Efffingham Illinois. All this time, and I will be in the same state as thst Effing town that Bob and Tom talk about!

Saw two ladies doing needlepoint in the observation car, very brave I told them, I feel the tablet weave is tough enough on the train.

Srill tring to find wi-fi, may not happen until I get to Chicago where I can walk (I hope) to an access point. Feh.

next installment

2009-06-14T15:45:00.000-07:00
Saturday:
and the morning saw a cloudy sunrise in Utah. Except for the cities, not much out here. Sleep on the train in coach can be a challenge. The seats semi-recline, and the leg and footrest help, though you really have to knoe they are there. Climate control is pretty good, though a light blanket is a good thing
The train means you can nap without fear of becoming a roadside memorial. Though I do see lots of interesting geological formations and layering that could be a rather interesting trip all on its own.

Following the Colorado river now with some carved canyon walls that hold a rather broad palatte of colors. Red earth, like we see in the Sierra's, along with tans and ochre yellows. The river today is a murky brown lined with low scrub and intermittent cottonwoods and willow . There is more growing, though hard to identfy on a moving train.
Worked on a little tablet weave last night for the hat I am making for Eugene, looks like another of my forgotten patterns, by that, I mean I forget when to reverse the cards to keep the pattern symetrica!

Well, forward into the day to see where we pass. Grand junction just now, maybe I can ping a wi-fi, otherwise I will have to post these all tomorrow from Chicago.

Train things
MP3 player,or walkman (dating myself )-favorite tunes can help with the naps.
Bring your bottle for water, as it is easy to get a bit dehydrated, you will know by the little headache!

Downstairs seating, you might pay a little extra for it, but family groups tend to get the upstairs. There's a touch more leg room, and if there are no wheelchairs, you can stretch out a bit on a part of the floor and elevate you feet and legs.
There I was, stretched out with my socky feet up on the seat when
A 'young man' came downstairs to retrieve something from his luggage. He looked and asked me if I was okay. I told him I was just stretching my back to relieve a cramp. He then asked me if I wanted anything for 'the pain', vicodin, and a choice of several other medications.
Don't you just meet the most interesting, and helpful people on the train.

dday 1, such as it was

2009-06-14T15:44:00.000-07:00
So the train left on time with slight overrcast, though pleasant weather.
There is still snow on some of the peaks in the sierra's.
I must say that the welded track makes a very quiet ride, as well as smoothing things out a bit.
There iss still some vibration, and I am slowly tapping things into the palm on the tiny keyboard. Thank goodness for the word recognition feature on this thing, as I end up backspacing a loot from the jiggly movement !
Just by wayy of a mplw, thuis is what unaided typing l0oks ke 0n the trn.
Add to that the constat pings from the train system network trying to connect to this thing, and me without a connection key!

So the trip, so far; a little nap, snoring as the nice neighbors try not to giggle at me. Lots of chidren
Upstairs, and folks need to be more aware of the issues on a train, like the need to keep shoes on, and not use the aisles as a racetrack!

A couple pictures so far, but Nevada is a bit bleak out here past Fernley. And the sunset was gray, only adding to the desolate view. Still I would rather take the train than make this drive solo.

Train item: hoseshoe neck pillow, definite plus, either commercial or homemade like mine, helps avoid odd cramps!

2009-06-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

AHH! The traveling shirt!
Is it not a think of frightening colors?
Does it not just S C R E A M at you!
I will keep you posted on how well it works!

Too early

2009-06-12T06:50:00.000-07:00
6 AM west coast time, I am up and wide awake, the train does not leave until 11....ah well, time to remember the snacks int he fridge...I hope.

So, a few years back it was off to Gimli Manitoba to cook for "vikings", long days there, as the sun was not setting until about 10:30 or so in the evenings, and was rising about 4 or so in the morning...I am a solar baby, I was exhausted and it only took me a half a week to realize why. I suppose I should try wearing a watch again, feh! No sport in that.

I think this will be my longest train trip. I thought about the sleeper car, but travelling solo means the expense is a bit more than my cheap self wants to pay. I will say though that for those who do not know about how AMTRAK sleepers work, you buy the basic "seat fare" for each person, and pay a single fare for the sleeper, that will allow up tot he maximum bodies rated for it- the little one holds two adults. The sleeper comes with your meals, so for two, the cost is pretty good, comparable to staying in a Doubletree or some such, but for one, it is a bit pricey in my book. Though I will say if you like your privacy, then it might be worth your money.

Me...I simply sewed up a "Traveling shirt". It is a rather bright yellow and blue "tropical" print I selected, and simply screams at you to come sit by me and let me talk to you the whoooooole way!

A few essentials that I like to pack when I travel- a large pack of generic baby cleaner pre-moistened towelettes. While the sleeper has access to a shower, the coach seats do not, so a bit of daily freshening up is nice.
I also like to bring a bottle for water with a cap. Water is available on the trains in each car, and they do provide little cups, but who wants to get up and down every time you want a drink of water.

Ahhh, 7 AM, finally the alarm has gone off, so I can make more noise now as we get ready for the day, and Tory gets ready to drive me to the station...Cho choooo!!

We will hope that the technology of the Palm does not defeat me on the trip, i have to type things with a stylus tip, on a tiny screen, and hope I am fast enough at any wi-fi stops to put something up! Otherwise, it will be Chicago on Sunday most likely!

The Journey begins!

2009-06-11T20:41:00.000-07:00
It is the night before my train trip to Ontario Canada for the FIRST Vinland Viking Market and Summer Solstice Celebration!
Why am I going?

Why else?! I am headed there to cook!

Why the train? Because I can, and I like the train, a most civilized way to travel I daresay.

The weekend of June 20th and 21st will see the inaugural event of what I hope will become a regular activity!
For more info be sure to check the website they have at The Vinland Viking Market

Depending on connections as I train East, I will update this blog with the adventures, though pictures may have to wait until I return.