August 2011 – Page 3 – Creative Meanderings

Korean Adoptees – 1

Going Mental No Responses »

Aug 152011

I have been spending some time reading articles on Korean adoptees the past couple of days. I always have a long list of links and posts to read from adoptees or about adoption backed up and when I manage to start reading, I get on a long chain of open tabs and items to read. This was my most recent thread:

When the Seoul, Korea Olympics were held, there was a lot of attention on South Korea and inevitably the issue of adoption was discussed since S. Korea is one of the countries with the highest (if not the highest) number of adoptees in various foreign countries. Back then, the focus was on numbers, stats and reasons.

Progressive Article from 1988

NY Times Article from 1988

Over 20 years later, the articles posted began to shift to the viewpoint of adoptees. This is a result of the bulk of adoptees reaching an age where they finally begin to express themselves and the world/society is beginning to take notice.

NY Times Article from 2009

2010 to 2011 Korean Adoptees article series on Awl by adoptee Sarah Idzik

Part 1 – Being different…

Part 2 – Being and talking about being adopted

Part 3 – Dating and Asian fetishes

Part 4 – Motherland tours and birth parent searches

What is interesting about this is that while the articles may express the common issues that adoptees struggle with and mostly focusing on Korean adoptees, there is a huge unspoken gap in the unity of voices.

I have been considering how to bring together these voices, but each time I start into a thread it takes me on a long ride of links and readings that run into different threads. It is a ball of yarn connected somehow but so knotted up that it is difficult to see it all as one long piece of yarn….

So, I will try to post here as I pick up threads and hope that somehow the pieces will all come together and I can see how to put the puzzle together…. 🙂

More to come,

-T

Indonesia: Bali Day 12

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Aug 152011

This pigeon was on the balcony when I woke up...didn't seem interested in leaving either...

This pigeon was on the balcony when I woke up…didn’t seem interested in leaving either…

This pigeon was on the balcony when I woke up…didn't seem interested in leaving either…14-Aug-2011 19:55, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.9, 25.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 160

Was waiting for the little bird (on the right halfway thru video) to come out as they flock this tree at night

Was waiting for the little bird (on the right halfway thru video) to come out as they flock this tree at night

Was waiting for the little bird (on the right halfway thru video) to come out as they flock this tree at night

As you can see, more and more of the little birds come to this tree around 6/6.30 every night...

As you can see, more and more of the little birds come to this tree around 6/6.30 every night…

As you can see, more and more of the little birds come to this tree around 6/6.30 every night…

We tried a new restaurant with more traditional food - it was delish!

We tried a new restaurant with more traditional food – it was delish!

We tried a new restaurant with more traditional food – it was delish!15-Aug-2011 04:13, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 200

Avocada Chocolate (not such a winner w/o sugar) and a mix juice of green apply and starfruit (tasty!)

Avocada Chocolate (not such a winner w/o sugar) and a mix juice of green apply and starfruit (tasty!)

Avocada Chocolate (not such a winner w/o sugar) and a mix juice of green apply and starfruit (tasty!)15-Aug-2011 04:25, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.5 sec, ISO 100

15-Aug-2011 04:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.5 sec, ISO 125

15-Aug-2011 04:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.5 sec, ISO 160

15-Aug-2011 04:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.5 sec, ISO 125

A beautiful and probably best meal we have had here.

A beautiful and probably best meal we have had here.

A beautiful and probably best meal we have had here.15-Aug-2011 04:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.5 sec, ISO 125

Plus Laksa soup!

Plus Laksa soup!

Plus Laksa soup!15-Aug-2011 04:36, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.5 sec, ISO 125

15-Aug-2011 05:08, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.077 sec, ISO 800

15-Aug-2011 05:31, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 800

15-Aug-2011 05:41, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800

Would you drink any of these??? Found in the local supermarket for your drinking pleasure... ;P

Would you drink any of these??? Found in the local supermarket for your drinking pleasure… ;P

Would you drink any of these??? Found in the local supermarket for your drinking pleasure… ;P15-Aug-2011 05:44, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 100

Indonesia: Bali Day 11

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Aug 142011

So, after our regular morning routine, we decided to go for a scooter ride to check out some other parts of the island. Originally, we headed in one direction, but the road took us to a different one and so we adjusted our destination a bit. We were hoping to get out to Tanah Lot which is northwest of the Kuta area along the coast. The main attraction of Tanah Lot is a temple along the coast. So, it was really less important that we saw the temple itself and more so that we got to see something different.

As we rode it was really amazing to see how many shops and tourists there were even outside of the Kuta/Legian area, which is considered the main bit. When we hit Seminyak, which is another major area, we were surprised at the expanse of the city lines. After getting through the busy downtown area and riding a bit further, we turned off the main road due to the insane amount of traffic. Since I do not drive the scooter, R has a heavy responsibility of navigating the roads with the crazy-locals on scooters and all the cars and trucks. So, we took a turn toward the beach and decided we had gone far enough.

Now the fun begins…

At the beach entrance there were some guys collecting money to pass on the road that goes along the beach. We were not intending to pass on that road and just wanted to park for a few minutes to enjoy the view. So, we parked outside of the area just a few meters from the gate and said we weren’t paying.

After having some fun in the huge waves and seeing a part of the coast that was more like we had expected for Bali (little food huts on the sand and fewer peeps), we went back to the scooter. It only took a moment to realize that our tire was flat…; it wasn’t flat when we left it. It became very clear that the guys were upset we had not paid them any money and had managed to slice a hole in the tire. Of course because we didn’t see them do it, they denied it….

Luckily, some security guards at a hotel next door offered to help us. They called the police for us, but that was pointless…. The guards tried to convince R that no one in Bali would do such a thing and that the flat probably was the cause of something else earlier…. Only problem is that when they pumped up the tire to check if there was a hole, it went flat in a matter of minutes. If the hole had caused a slow-flattening process I could believe them, but if it only took minutes, then I have to assume the worse….

In any case, we got it fixed and had an “adventure” for the day. Afterwards, we treated ourselves to drinks and dinner at Sheppy’s. R more than deserved the treat and I’m very very appreciative that he is the one driving through the crazy streets!

So, though I wanted a bit more excitement in a day, I think I may have asked for too much! 😀

Here are the photos:

Beach near Seminyak

Beach near Seminyak

Beach near Seminyak13-Aug-2011 23:50, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 14.0, 9.39mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

Crazy crazy waves here

Crazy crazy waves here

Crazy crazy waves here

Waves!

Waves!

Waves!14-Aug-2011 00:00, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.2, 19.85mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 80

14-Aug-2011 00:00, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 18.0, 25.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 125

14-Aug-2011 00:00, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 18.0, 25.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 100

14-Aug-2011 00:01, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.7, 13.09mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 80

Us playing in the ocean - not dressed properly for big ol' waves!

Us playing in the ocean – not dressed properly for big ol’ waves!

Us playing in the ocean – not dressed properly for big ol' waves!

14-Aug-2011 00:10, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80

Got a flat tire...long story...

Got a flat tire…long story…

Got a flat tire…long story…14-Aug-2011 00:35, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.9, 14.0mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 160

The suspects for the cause of our flat...

The suspects for the cause of our flat…

The suspects for the cause of our flat…14-Aug-2011 00:35, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.9, 25.0mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 100

R off for the ride of his life to get the tire fixed

R off for the ride of his life to get the tire fixed

R off for the ride of his life to get the tire fixed14-Aug-2011 00:50, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 100

Oh so (not) useful police officer...

Oh so (not) useful police officer…

Oh so (not) useful police officer…14-Aug-2011 00:52, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 80

How many men does it take to change a scooter tire? (3?)

How many men does it take to change a scooter tire? (3?)

How many men does it take to change a scooter tire? (3?)14-Aug-2011 01:16, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.2, 19.85mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 200

5?

5?14-Aug-2011 01:24, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.4, 11.43mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 160

Back on the road again in Seminyak country territory

Back on the road again in Seminyak country territory

Back on the road again in Seminyak country territory

Countryside in Seminyak (or thereabouts)

Countryside in Seminyak (or thereabouts)

Countryside in Seminyak (or thereabouts)14-Aug-2011 01:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 100

14-Aug-2011 01:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 80

14-Aug-2011 01:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80

Often you can see what seem like temples on the roofs of stores, houses, etc.

Often you can see what seem like temples on the roofs of stores, houses, etc.

Often you can see what seem like temples on the roofs of stores, houses, etc.14-Aug-2011 01:30, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 100

14-Aug-2011 01:30, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 80

These gates are often seen in front of the beach area (maybe West gates?)

These gates are often seen in front of the beach area (maybe West gates?)

These gates are often seen in front of the beach area (maybe West gates?)14-Aug-2011 01:30, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 125

Local fruit stand

Local fruit stand

Local fruit stand14-Aug-2011 01:32, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80

14-Aug-2011 01:32, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80

More scenes from the main road from Kuta, Legian to Seminyak and northwest

More scenes from the main road from Kuta, Legian to Seminyak and northwest

More scenes from the main road from Kuta, Legian to Seminyak and northwest

Meant to take a picture of the chickens, but the background seems more interesting now...

Meant to take a picture of the chickens, but the background seems more interesting now…

Meant to take a picture of the chickens, but the background seems more interesting now…14-Aug-2011 01:37, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.9, 25.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 100

Intersection...

Intersection…

Intersection…14-Aug-2011 01:57, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.1, 5.4mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 80

Interesting platform at a temple we passed by - I think those are like seats on top or something...

Interesting platform at a temple we passed by – I think those are like seats on top or something…

Interesting platform at a temple we passed by – I think those are like seats on top or something…14-Aug-2011 01:57, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 80

Dinner at Sheppy's! Full rack o' ribs

Dinner at Sheppy’s! Full rack o’ ribs

Dinner at Sheppy's! Full rack o' ribs14-Aug-2011 03:39, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

14-Aug-2011 03:40, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

...and the cannibals are done. YUM!

…and the cannibals are done. YUM!

…and the cannibals are done. YUM!14-Aug-2011 03:53, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

...where the hell are my dentures?

…where the hell are my dentures?

…where the hell are my dentures?14-Aug-2011 03:54, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

Full moon and Bali traffic back in Kuta

Full moon and Bali traffic back in Kuta

Full moon and Bali traffic back in Kuta14-Aug-2011 04:32, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.9, 8.8mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800

Indonesia: Bali Days 9 & 10

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Aug 132011

Basic daily routine:

10/10.30 get up (if 10 – go to breakfast)

11 have coffee on balcony, listen to music, update blog, surf the Internet, etc.

1 go for a swim at the pool or continue sitting on the balcony

2/2.30 think about what to do later…

6/7 go out for dinner and dessert

11 back at hotel to watch some tv and sleep

Repeat!

Yep, that is the extent of most days around here. Occasionally it is switched up with an outing during the day (such as our visit to the beach), or like yesterday I had to get out and go for a walk around. This routine is nice for a couple of weeks, but when it is basically like this for two months, it does actually start to get a little boring…I mean relaxing is fun, but I tend to lose focus and interest in everything when this happens for too long….

So, here are some pics from the past two days:

Day 9

Kites fly all over in Bali - but hard to photograph...

Kites fly all over in Bali – but hard to photograph…

Kites fly all over in Bali – but hard to photograph…11-Aug-2011 22:59, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.9, 25.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80

Kuta Beach

Kuta Beach

Kuta Beach11-Aug-2011 23:51, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80

11-Aug-2011 23:51, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 14.0, 8.8mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

12-Aug-2011 00:20, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.9, 25.0mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80

12-Aug-2011 00:28, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.4, 11.43mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80

I love these sand crabs that make the little balls...

I love these sand crabs that make the little balls…

I love these sand crabs that make the little balls…

12-Aug-2011 00:31, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.9, 8.8mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80

12-Aug-2011 00:33, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 16.0, 11.43mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 160

12-Aug-2011 00:34, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.5, 12.26mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80

12-Aug-2011 00:36, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80

12-Aug-2011 00:37, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 13.0, 7.28mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

Big ol' jelly...

Big ol’ jelly…

Big ol' jelly…12-Aug-2011 00:41, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80

12-Aug-2011 05:41, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.5 sec, ISO 200

12-Aug-2011 05:42, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

12-Aug-2011 05:42, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 800

12-Aug-2011 05:43, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.1 sec, ISO 800

The food looks good, but the taste is another story...

The food looks good, but the taste is another story…

The food looks good, but the taste is another story…12-Aug-2011 05:43, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

Day 10

Temple (?) across the street from the hotel

Temple (?) across the street from the hotel

Temple (?) across the street from the hotel13-Aug-2011 00:06, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 80

Warehouse of necklaces and assorted accessories

Warehouse of necklaces and assorted accessories

Warehouse of necklaces and assorted accessories13-Aug-2011 00:11, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

Funny temple guys...

Funny temple guys…

Funny temple guys…13-Aug-2011 00:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80

13-Aug-2011 00:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

13-Aug-2011 00:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 80

Streetside food stand - see taxi drivers and locals eating this stuff

Streetside food stand – see taxi drivers and locals eating this stuff

Streetside food stand – see taxi drivers and locals eating this stuff13-Aug-2011 00:20, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

Don't know what these were, but thought they were funny...

Don’t know what these were, but thought they were funny…

Don't know what these were, but thought they were funny…13-Aug-2011 00:23, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.9, 25.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 100

Interesting looking store...

Interesting looking store…

Interesting looking store…13-Aug-2011 00:23, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.5, 12.26mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 100

Musical instrument store

Musical instrument store

Musical instrument store13-Aug-2011 00:23, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.8, 17.22mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 250

Temple near hotel

Temple near hotel

Temple near hotel13-Aug-2011 00:24, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.9, 14.0mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 100

Pretty door

Pretty door

Pretty door13-Aug-2011 00:25, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

Side door to temple

Side door to temple

Side door to temple13-Aug-2011 00:25, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80

13-Aug-2011 00:25, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.7, 7.28mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

Inside the temple - I didn't go inside, just took pics from the side gate - :D

Inside the temple – I didn’t go inside, just took pics from the side gate – 😀

Inside the temple – I didn't go inside, just took pics from the side gate – 😀

At last - a truck full of workers - g'nite!

At last – a truck full of workers – g’nite!

At last – a truck full of workers – g'nite!13-Aug-2011 06:14, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800

It's a little dark, but hotel guy was using a bag on a stick to shoosh away the hummingbirds flocking to this tree...

It’s a little dark, but hotel guy was using a bag on a stick to shoosh away the hummingbirds flocking to this tree…

It's a little dark, but hotel guy was using a bag on a stick to shoosh away the hummingbirds flocking to this tree…

Thoughts on the Bali live music scene....

Thoughts on the Bali live music scene….

Thoughts on the Bali live music scene….

We’ve got some activities lined up for the next few days, so more pics coming!

Tattoos

General, Going Mental, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Aug 122011

For a while I have considered getting a tattoo, much to my father’s chagrin. The main thing for me is that I didn’t want a cheesy-looking one that would stay on my body forever and I didn’t want it in a cliche location on my body (ie no “I like it from behind” tatts…). So, it took me a long time to come up with something that I wouldn’t hate looking at all the time or knowing it was stuck on me. Also, I wanted to find something that meant something to me and less likely to be seen on another body….

Thus, I came up with this:

I took a picture of my longtime teddy bear friend, Snowball, and then decided I wanted to represent the two sides of me – Asian outside and American inside. So, the Korean flag are represented on the paws and the center circle piece, but instead of the ying-yang blue and red colored inside, I replaced it with the American flag. The top writing is my name in Korean and then my Korean name is written in English on the bottom. It is the best way I could show my duality and constant struggle of identity, but portrayed through the softer side of me in a stuffed animal.

I thought about it for a long time and decided this is what I wanted and would be happy to see every day. The location was a bit more difficult to decide, but I picked my right hip area in the front because I could see it and I like that it won’t be easily seen except in a swimsuit and even then it will just be his little head peeking out… 😉

So, here is the final product:

The next day...just what I wanted! Shhhh...DO NOT TELL MY DAD! :D

The next day…just what I wanted! Shhhh…DO NOT TELL MY DAD! 😀10-Aug-2011 23:45, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.7, 6.64mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800

12-Aug-2011 01:25, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 160

Overall, I am quite happy with it, though the writing on the ‘ra’ part of my name in Korean isn’t as accurate as I had wanted…. Still, though the pain was incredible, I am glad that I did it. Not being a real tatt person before I am surprised at how much I like it and that I am considering one more looking something like this:

But, that is still in the conception process….

Anyway, here are some other photos from the tattooing – R also got a new one done that required a second visit to get fixed up, but it now looks good and he is already scheduled to go again!!! 🙂

Time for....

Time for….

Time for….10-Aug-2011 01:53, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.8, 7.73mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 200

10-Aug-2011 02:03, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.077 sec, ISO 200

Being inked...

Being inked…

Being inked…10-Aug-2011 02:28, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.9, 14.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 320

10-Aug-2011 03:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.1, 10.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 250

The sound of the inking...it hurts!!!!!

The sound of the inking…it hurts!!!!!

The sound of the inking…it hurts!!!!!

Phew - made it...

Phew – made it…

Phew – made it…10-Aug-2011 03:26, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.5, 12.26mm, 0.2 sec, ISO 200

v1 looked good at first...

v1 looked good at first…

v1 looked good at first…10-Aug-2011 03:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.4, 11.43mm, 0.2 sec, ISO 200

Prepped and ready...

Prepped and ready…

Prepped and ready…10-Aug-2011 02:25, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 200

Is it done yet...????

Is it done yet…????

Is it done yet…????10-Aug-2011 03:15, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.167 sec, ISO 200

Notice the curled fingers...gripping to get through the pain...

Notice the curled fingers…gripping to get through the pain…

Notice the curled fingers…gripping to get through the pain…10-Aug-2011 03:22, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.2 sec, ISO 200

Trying not to think about it...

Trying not to think about it…

Trying not to think about it…10-Aug-2011 03:22, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.2 sec, ISO 200

All done...

All done…

All done…10-Aug-2011 03:30, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.2 sec, ISO 200

_Three Cups of Deceit_

Literary Escapes No Responses »

Aug 112011

Three Cups of Deceit: How Greg Mortenson,…

_Three Cups of Deceit_ by Jon Krakauer

Upon sharing with some colleagues that I had really enjoyed reading Greg Mortenson’s _Three Cups of Tea_ last summer, someone said that he thought that Mortenson had been ratted out as having made up some of his story. I hadn’t heard this before, but it bothered me because I had been really been moved by this book. Another friend of mine has also been reading it with her son and thinking about doing the Pennies for Peace program promoted by Mortenson and the Central Asia Institute.

So, I came across Jon Krakauer’s title _Three Cups of Deceit_ and decided it was time to read it especially since I really respect Krakauer’s writing.

Krakauer reveals through correspondences with members of CAI and characters mentioned in the original book many untruths told by Mortenson in his book. Krakauer explains that he had offered an opportunity for Mortenson to be interviewed to dispel these allegations, but suddenly (conveniently) became unavailable shortly before the scheduled interview.

How disappointing to read these facts about a story that was so inspiring and had re-energized me in why I believe in education and my profession. Of course, these facts do not change how I feel, but it is a huge disappointment that a man who had such ability to inspire and motivate could be such a jerk as to lie and embellish when his story could have been just as effective without it. I wonder how people live with themselves and continue to sell their stories despite all the lies….

I am reminded as to why I am so skeptical about charities and stories of great giving…. 🙁

So, on to other reading….

Indonesia: Bali Day 7 & 8

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Aug 112011

I’d like to post something interesting regarding our time in Bali, but as I’ve shown in the pics and posts, we have just been relaxing with no real serious touristy sightseeing or activities. Our major activity the other day was getting tattoos, which deserves a post on its own, so that is coming. In the meantime, here are a few pics from the past couple of days. 🙂

Our lovely pool

Our lovely pool

Our lovely pool09-Aug-2011 23:45, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

Our room is on the third floor in the corner (right-side)

Our room is on the third floor in the corner (right-side)

Our room is on the third floor in the corner (right-side)09-Aug-2011 23:46, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80

09-Aug-2011 23:46, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 80

09-Aug-2011 23:46, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 80

09-Aug-2011 23:47, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 80

09-Aug-2011 23:47, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

Cool statue in the pool

Cool statue in the pool

Cool statue in the pool09-Aug-2011 23:48, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.5, 12.26mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 100

Time for a visit to...

Time for a visit to…

Time for a visit to…10-Aug-2011 04:07, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 320

Sheppy's!

Sheppy’s!

Sheppy's!10-Aug-2011 04:08, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 250

Drinks make us happy!

Drinks make us happy!

Drinks make us happy!10-Aug-2011 04:08, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 320

Mixed Indonesian food

Mixed Indonesian food

Mixed Indonesian food10-Aug-2011 04:10, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 320

Arak shots - cross between brandy and tequila - followed by some Bali Cider makes it bearable.

Arak shots – cross between brandy and tequila – followed by some Bali Cider makes it bearable.

Arak shots – cross between brandy and tequila – followed by some Bali Cider makes it bearable.11-Aug-2011 04:30, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100

That’s it for this post! 😀

Indonesia: Bali Day 6

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Aug 092011

It’s too early to be counting down how many days left, but I am reminded since we moved hotels today. We are booked in the Bali Kuta Resort for the next 15 days, which will be until the end of our visit. :*( So, let’s not talk about that!

Let’s talk about the good stuff. We’ve mostly been eating, sleeping, swimming, scooting and then repeating that most days. Today wasn’t much different, though we did stop to drop off our laundry just next to the new hotel. We also tried to eat at a “local-like” place, but it doesn’t seem as if the food is all that interesting here….

So, here are today’s shots:

You can see these funny pepper lights hanging from various store fronts

You can see these funny pepper lights hanging from various store fronts

You can see these funny pepper lights hanging from various store fronts09-Aug-2011 02:56, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.1 sec, ISO 200

Laundry day...

Laundry day…

Laundry day…09-Aug-2011 02:56, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 200

09-Aug-2011 02:59, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.4, 6.07mm, 0.04 sec, ISO 200

Time for a refill...

Time for a refill…

Time for a refill…09-Aug-2011 03:03, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.9, 8.25mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 200

A local store

A local store

A local store09-Aug-2011 03:04, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.9, 8.25mm, 0.2 sec, ISO 200

09-Aug-2011 03:04, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.0, 9.39mm, 0.04 sec, ISO 200

Don't see many of these ladies around, but now and then...

Don’t see many of these ladies around, but now and then…

Don't see many of these ladies around, but now and then…09-Aug-2011 03:07, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 200

09-Aug-2011 03:09, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.1, 5.4mm, 0.2 sec, ISO 200

09-Aug-2011 03:10, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.7, 7.28mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 200

A light dinner...

A light dinner…

A light dinner…09-Aug-2011 03:29, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 320

And then dessert!

And then dessert!

And then dessert!09-Aug-2011 04:03, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 200

Yummy, yummy in my tummy!!!!

Yummy, yummy in my tummy!!!!

Yummy, yummy in my tummy!!!!09-Aug-2011 04:10, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.077 sec, ISO 200

Indonesia: Bali Day 5

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Aug 082011

We have become creatures of the night lately and so it is rare for us to be awake before noon. However, yesterday was a slight change and so we did a little scooting around the area. Originally, we thought we might try to ride to Nusa Dua on the scooter, but the road was crazy with people whizzing by and trucks driving too close for comfort. So, in the end, we did a loop and returned to the more familiar crazy streets around Kuta and Legian. Here are some pics, though:

Bali - Temple

Bali – Temple

Bali – Temple07-Aug-2011 23:17, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80

07-Aug-2011 23:17, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 11.0, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 160

07-Aug-2011 23:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.9, 8.8mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80

07-Aug-2011 23:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.2, 19.85mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 100

Petrol stand

Petrol stand

Petrol stand07-Aug-2011 23:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.8, 7.73mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

Cool looking tree

Cool looking tree

Cool looking tree07-Aug-2011 23:27, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 100

Creepy big-head guy...

Creepy big-head guy…

Creepy big-head guy…07-Aug-2011 23:27, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.9, 8.25mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80

Bali - Temple...

Bali – Temple…

Bali – Temple…07-Aug-2011 23:28, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.1, 10.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80

Bali - main roads on scooter

Bali – main roads on scooter

Bali – main roads on scooter07-Aug-2011 23:33, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80

After a nice Balinese-style massage, we got some grub and had a quiet evening.

Seafood restaurant (Chinese)

Seafood restaurant (Chinese)

Seafood restaurant (Chinese)

Yummy dinner!

Yummy dinner!

Yummy dinner!08-Aug-2011 05:44, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 250

08-Aug-2011 06:20, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 200

Nighttime scooter ride through the streets!

Nighttime scooter ride through the streets!

Nighttime scooter ride through the streets!

08-Aug-2011 06:40, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 250

08-Aug-2011 07:16, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.5, 12.26mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 400

The half moon shines upon the giant KFC bucket!

The half moon shines upon the giant KFC bucket!

The half moon shines upon the giant KFC bucket!08-Aug-2011 07:16, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.5, 12.26mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 400

Sportin' the best glasses ever!!!!

Sportin’ the best glasses ever!!!!

Sportin' the best glasses ever!!!!08-Aug-2011 07:18, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 320

Indonesia: Bali Day 3 & 4

General, Meanderings Abroad No Responses »

Aug 072011

We have found a lovely Australian hang-out to enjoy a refreshing beverage – Bali Cider! There are apparently only two locales that sell it in the area and so we have no choice but to continue to go back ….

Bali Cider is a beautiful drink!

Bali Cider is a beautiful drink!

Bali Cider is a beautiful drink!04-Aug-2011 06:15, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 1 sec, ISO 500

Our new favorite hang out

Our new favorite hang out

Our new favorite hang out04-Aug-2011 06:16, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 4.2, 18.9mm, 0.625 sec, ISO 400

Attempting to take a good picture of a truck full of workers...

Attempting to take a good picture of a truck full of workers…

Attempting to take a good picture of a truck full of workers…04-Aug-2011 06:42, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 4.2, 18.9mm, 1 sec, ISO 400

Tasty pepper shrimp

Tasty pepper shrimp

Tasty pepper shrimp04-Aug-2011 07:05, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 1 sec, ISO 400

We have also been enjoying the rooftop pool in our hotel – J Boutique Hotel – which offers a nice view of the planes coming in and out of the airport and the ocean in the distance.

Rooftop pool at J Boutique Hotel

Rooftop pool at J Boutique Hotel

Rooftop pool at J Boutique Hotel07-Aug-2011 02:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80

View from hotel rooftop

View from hotel rooftop

View from hotel rooftop07-Aug-2011 02:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80

You can make out a plane that landed at the airport between the two towers in the back of the pic

You can make out a plane that landed at the airport between the two towers in the back of the pic

You can make out a plane that landed at the airport between the two towers in the back of the pic07-Aug-2011 02:19, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.3, 10.73mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80

07-Aug-2011 02:20, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 16.0, 14.0mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

07-Aug-2011 02:20, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 16.0, 14.0mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80

Ocean view from rooftop

Ocean view from rooftop

Ocean view from rooftop07-Aug-2011 02:22, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.8, 17.22mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 80

07-Aug-2011 02:23, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80

We aren’t far from the Kuta Beach area, but the one closest to us is more used by the locals than tourists. We headed there last night to take in the sunset.

Heading to see the sunset at Kuta Beach

Heading to see the sunset at Kuta Beach

Heading to see the sunset at Kuta Beach07-Aug-2011 02:56, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.0, 9.39mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80

07-Aug-2011 02:56, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.0, 9.39mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80

Local eateries at the Kuta beach area...mostly locals here...

Local eateries at the Kuta beach area…mostly locals here…

Local eateries at the Kuta beach area…mostly locals here…07-Aug-2011 02:56, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.0, 9.39mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 100

07-Aug-2011 02:58, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 14.0, 17.22mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80

07-Aug-2011 02:58, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 14.0, 8.8mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 125

The beginning of the runway for the airport starts at the land area in the middle of the pic...

The beginning of the runway for the airport starts at the land area in the middle of the pic…

The beginning of the runway for the airport starts at the land area in the middle of the pic…07-Aug-2011 02:59, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 14.0, 8.8mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 200

This is the much less touristy southern portion of Kuta Beach

This is the much less touristy southern portion of Kuta Beach

This is the much less touristy southern portion of Kuta Beach

07-Aug-2011 03:11, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.5, 12.26mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 100

07-Aug-2011 03:15, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.2, 19.85mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 100

07-Aug-2011 03:15, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 5.5, 12.26mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 100

07-Aug-2011 03:00, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.9, 8.8mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 160

07-Aug-2011 03:01, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.9, 8.8mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 100

06-Aug-2011 18:10, Apple iPhone 4, 2.8, 3.85mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 100

Mostly, it’s been all about the relaxing!!!

07-Aug-2011 02:33, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80

Here are some other random pics of the Kuta area:

Local gas station - full tank = 15,000 IDR (USD1.50)

Local gas station – full tank = 15,000 IDR (USD1.50)

Local gas station – full tank = 15,000 IDR (USD1.50)04-Aug-2011 05:24, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 1 sec, ISO 500

04-Aug-2011 05:25, NIKON COOLPIX S51, 3.3, 6.3mm, 0.625 sec, ISO 400

06-Aug-2011 06:09, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.2, 5.72mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 1000

06-Aug-2011 06:10, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 4.2, 5.72mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 800

06-Aug-2011 06:10, OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. TG-610 , 3.9, 5.0mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800

More to come…

-T

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