Bob Hall's Gulls

Bob Hall Gulls
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

In contrast to Seattle's frozen Green Lake, we enjoyed sunny beaches over our holiday break.

Seattle Snow - Everyone's Outdoors

Seattle Snow - Everyone's Outdoors
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

After several days of snow, cabin fever set in, and people (and dogs) of all ages went outside. Sledding ensued.

Frozen Green Lake with Man on Dock

Greenlake Frozen w Man on Pier
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

Seattle had one of the most intense snow storms in years. This picture of a frozen Green Lake was taken after it had started to melt.

Seattle Center Christmas

Seattle Center Christmas
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

I snapped this before a Seattle Thunderbirds hockey game. It's great to hear holiday music at one of my favorite places in the world with my favorite person in the world...

Speaking of my favorite person, she recently started her own blog to keep folks back home posted on our daily doings. At the same time, I've slowed down on my original mission for this blog since I no longer have to travel for work:
"My camera's log from across the country - from moose to midnight sun, and from sunsets to skylines, these are a few of my favorite things..."

I've appreciated your comments, and may come back online, but for at least a few months, this blog will be going radio silent.

Historical Marker in Seattle

Historical Marker in Seattle
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

It's been awhile since I've seen a Texas Historical Marker, so I was shocked to see this hanging on the wall at our favorite German restaurant here in Seattle. This sure seems like brilliant marketing from the folks in Shiner! Any Texan would certainly notice...

Outnumbered!

Outnumbered
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

The guy with the rugby ball is a coworker buddy who is originally from South Africa. He invited me to one of his games so I could see what it's all about. It was a hoot to see a quiet, technical developer dude turn into a crashing, bashing steamroller with a hatred of those in green jerseys.

Piano Bench

Piano Bench
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

Various organizations in the Seattle Arts scene have built benches around the International Fountain at Seattle Center to promote the arts. The benches range from kitschy and touristy to clever.

This is my favorite, the Piano Bench, sponsored by Seattle Opera. Yes, you sit on it. No, your butt doesn't play tunes - the keys are for display purposes only. Oh, and there may be a geocache near it.

Yuniesky Betancourt Rules.

Yuniesky Betancourt Rules.
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

Since I have been following Seattle Mariners baseball, I've been a big fan of Ichiro Suzuki. He is a solid, efficient hitter and baserunner, and is not all about swinging for the fences (although he does hit them out of the park.) To me, he is the anti-Bonds. He is even popular enough in Seattle to have a sushi roll named after him - the Ichi-Roll. When I first stepped into Safeco field six years ago, he hit a homerun right as I stepped up to the field.

This week, I went to the game with my company and client, expecting to see Ichiro add to his stats. Unfortunately, I think I talked him up too much to one of my coworkers who doesn't follow baseball. As is normally the case when I open my mouth, I jinxed Ichiro, and he had a sub-par game. Thankfully, the story doesn't end there.

After the Mariners beat the Red Sox soundly and repeatedly (good thing I don't know any Boston fans), and approached the division lead in August, Seattle lost some steam and went on a losing streak. We badly needed a win to get back into the running.

Thanks to Yuniesky Betancourt's walk-off hit in the bottom of the ninth, we got that win, and we saw a rare display of emotion from the team. The M's dugout cleared, and the players ran out to pick up Betancourt onto their shoulders. Walk-off hits are my favorite plays in baseball, and Betancourt may be my new favorite baseball player.

International Film Festival

International Film Festival
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

My company's summer retreat had a film festival theme, and it was entertaining. Twelve internal teams volunteered to create their own indie films, and some were just amazing. It helps that we happen to have a film director on staff, but it's funny to see people that seem so corporate producing and acting in short films.

Retreat-ing Sunset

Retreat-ing Sunset
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

This is one of many great sunsets at my company's summer retreat at a resort North of Seattle. British Columbia is just across the water.

Drowning Worms

San Juan Fishing
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

I definitely enjoyed fishing while on vacation. The fish enjoyed nibbling on my line but not biting; I still caught enough to eat. While fishing, I met two otters and a seal. They say hello.

San Juan Sunset Clouds

San Juan Sunset Clouds
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

Another great sunset that we enjoyed while on vacation...

Wedding Cake

Wedding Cake
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

One year later, this was the leftover top section of the cake. Woohoo! One year down, many more to come!

San Juan Sunset

San Juan Sunset
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

One of several great sunsets that we enjoyed from our fishing pier while on vacation in the San Juan Islands...

Orca Spyhopping

Orca Spyhopping
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

While on vacation on nearby San Juan Island, we drove out to Lime Kiln State Park to see if we could spot any orcas from the distance. Instead, we got quite the closeup show. Somewhere around 10 orcas came up to the shore to meet us. This one was actually closer than it looks. It was out of the water more than this, but the camera caught him on the way back down into the water. We saw mother whales teaching their newborns to fish, full breaches, and generally playful whales that day. Quite an experience... (By the way, can you imagine being in that kayak?)

A lot of paperwork for this key...

A lot of paperwork for this key...
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

We did it - we bought a house! We signed the papers, moved in, changed the locks, and promptly left town for a week's vacation. Hectic times, but well worth it. Vacation pics to follow shortly...

Pig on Parade

Pig on Parade
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

When I first came to Seattle 6 years ago, I was impressed by the pigs on parade in downtown Seattle. My favorite was the original Starbucks pig, dressed in a burlap coffee bag with coffee beans all over him. Since then, the pigs have been on sabbatical, but this year, they're back to support the 100th year anniversary of the Pike Place Market. While maintaining a geocache downtown, I snapped this phone pic of 'A Picture-Perfect Pig'.

Late for work?

Relay finale
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

If I look like I am about to die, it's only because this was the end of the Fremont briefcase relay race. Running with a phonebook-loaded briefcase in a double breasted suit and tie isn't as easy as it may seem. :-)

(Note that the part of me which you do not see has on shorts and running shoes.)

5K Briefcase Relay

Prerace
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

We were all-business from the waist up, speed racers from the waist down. This is the Pacific Northwest Texans team, just before starting the wacky Fremont 5k Briefcase Relay. Each of us took a 1K segment, and had to run with a true briefcase in hand. Briefcase contents: 1 greater Seattle yellow page phone book.

Brisket and chips

Brisket and chips
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

I have been on a beef-brisket-smoking frenzy lately, even though my meat consumption has gone way down since I've been up here. A friend of mine from Texas (who now lives in Seattle) threw an ‘Official Texas Barbecue’ last weekend, and I was responsible for the brisket. Naturally, I had to practice again, so I had a great excuse to smoke several briskets over the past few months. I don’t have an offset wood smoker, but I am able to adjust the propane grill for this purpose. I just put the mesquite chips on the outside burners, and don’t turn on the central burners. That way, the mesquite chips smoke, while there is no direct heat on the meat. My first few briskets of the year didn’t turn out as well (thank you to those who offered to be guinea pigs!), but the last round was excellent. My updated formula after all of this: indirect heat at about 250 degrees, for about an hour per pound.

Corporate Soccer

Corporate Soccer
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN

Corporate America isn't all that bad, especially for responsible companies who care about their people. My latest example: the sense of community at my current client is actually pretty amazing (in this case - their international athletic community.) As I waited for my bus (in which my transit fees are paid by my company in an effort to reduce traffic, greenhouse gases, etc.) on a perfect Seattle afternoon in front of this corporate intramural field, I was entertained by a fast-paced soccer game. Directly behind the goal were two volleyball games, and behind the other goal (not pictured) was a softball game. During lunch, a buddy/coworker of mine occasionally goes to play Rugby. I often see Cricket matches here, and am slowly learning how different it is from Baseball. Oh, and by the way, games are always happening, not just during off-hours. I love springtime in Seattle...

What bird is this?

What bird is this?
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This crazy bird had no fear of us or our camera. This pic was taken less than a foot from the bird. While I barbecued a brisket, this mother bird was cruising through the yard digging for worms. She would fly away abruptly (to feed it to her young?) and then come back a few minutes later. My question: What kind of bird is this? I know that there are some avid birders who read this blog who may be able to help...

Complete Barkfast Nutrition for Dogs

Complete Breakfast Nutrition for Dogs
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

We saw this at an upscale grocery store in town, and I couldn't pass it up after laughing in the aisle... Peanut-butter flavored dog CEREAL. Have you ever seen a dog try to eat peanut butter? Clearly the little dog on the box is trying to get it unstuck from the roof of his mouth. The New Dog Times? Barkfast Squares? Who came up with this? Who is the target market for this 1950's Pleasantville-for-dogs marketing? I love finding stuff like this.

Modest Mouse at the Paramount (Sneaky Phone Pic)

Modest Mouse at the Paramount (Sneaky Phone Pic)
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

We got last minute seats to see Modest Mouse at the Paramount Theater this past weekend. Wow.

First of all, the theater is amazing. It was built in 1927, and has ornate detail EVERYWHERE. Even the drinking fountains are made of inlaid marble sculptures. The sound quality is unbelievable because of the curves and angles built into the theater. It was definitely engineered so that one could hear the crisp details, even in the cheap seats. This phone-cam picture shows a fraction of the detail. There are several domes and chandeliers in the ceiling.

Second - it was great to finally see the mice. Isaac Brock is one intense lead singer, and he lost his voice early on. That didn't stop him from screaming it out until the very end of the show. The band's newest member, Johnny Marr (former guitarist and lyricist for the Smiths) brings a whole new level to the band. By watching his stage presence, it is clear that he's been doing this for awhile (and will hopefully continue for awhile.) Another interesting element - seeing two drummers playing simultaneously brought energy to the performance. They almost seemed to be competing with each other for intensity, but their motions were both perfectly timed. The only drawback to the show was some occasional microphone feedback. Brock would get mad at the feedback and knock the offending mic over. That happened several times. It was hilarious...

I have two recommendations. If you get a chance to see a show at the Paramount, go. It beats a sports arena ANY day, and you’ll see attention to detail that is rare these days. Second, go see Modest Mouse.

Talay Thai - Snoqualmie

Talay Thai - Snoqualamie
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

We had an amazing opportunity to be test subjects for a friend's brand new Thai restaurant in Snoqualmie, Washington this weekend. For those of you who are not from the Seattle area, Snoqualmie is a rapidly growing suburban area with a shortage of authentic Thai food. (Twin Peaks was also filmed here, for you early-90's pop culturists.) The owners regularly commute to Thailand to see family, and many of the decorations were brought back on those trips. It was clear that the long hours and hard work on the details of the restaurant paid off, from the hardwood floors and trendy music selection to the unique details and quality of the food.

I left full and happy after trying almost evevrything on the menu, and honored to be a part of the process. :-) I recommend the Bok Noodle appetizer and Pad Kee Mao for the entree. The restaurant officially opened today at:

Talay Thai
7713 Center Blvd SE STE 150
Snoqualmie, WA 98065

Roof Access?

Roof Access?
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

At my current client-site, men have to take their business onto the roof.

It surprised me on my first day here that there's a half-door in the men's restroom leading to the roof. No one else seems to notice...

Springtime Sunset

Spring Sunset
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This evening I was lucky enough to capture one of the more breathtaking sunsets over the Olympic Mountains... It first looked like the mountain was on fire.

Springtime in Seattle - Front Yard

Spring - Front Yard
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is what happens in Seattle in the springtime. Everything grows here, and it takes almost no effort, as long as you're happy with what pops up.

Grape Hyacinth

Grape Hyacinth
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

We had to do some research to figure out what the heck this rapidly spreading bulb plant is, and it turned out to be Grape Hyacinth. It's everywhere! It even grows in the cracks of the sidewalk here.

Leader of the Pack, Lion Around

Leader of the Pack Lion Around
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I took this photo at Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo several weeks ago. We saw lions, tigers, bears, zebras, wild dogs, gorillas and on and on and on. There were so many animals, and the crowds were small since the weather had just become favorable. I learned that drinking and supporting shade-grown coffee is one of my best ways to contribute to animal habitat. Bring on the espresso!

Swim of the Penguin

Penguin
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I took this photo at Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo several weeks ago. Penguins are faster swimmers than I thought, and they were hard to catch on film.

Ski Jump

Ski Jump
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Although I'll never go down one of these, this will be the site of the 2010 Winter Olympic Ski Jump events at Whistler, B.C. (near Vancouver.) It would be amazing to be here for the Olympics since they're so close to home, but tickets and rooms are already hard to find, three years ahead of the events...

Whistler

Downhill
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This picture is looking down at what will be the site of the various men's downhill ski races in the 2010 Olympics at Whistler, B.C. (near Vancouver.)

George Bush's Childhood Home

George Bush's Childhood Home
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Agree, disagree, love or hate, this is where he lived in Midland, Texas. (And yes, that's my GPS at the bottom right of the sign.)

Santa Rita #2

Santa Rita #2
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

(Taken from my phone) This was one of the original oil wells in the Permian Basin, and now stands at the Petroleum Musem.

Caffe Vita Anyone?

Cafe Vita Anyone?
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Blue Onion Bistro is known for the 'Best Chicken Fried Steak in Seattle'. They also have great coffee. I'm guessing it's from Caffe Vita based upon the subliminal advertising here. I always enjoy pouring the cream into the coffee and watching the colors swirling into this large, colorful and comforting mug.

The Big 3-0

The Big 3-0
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

...thousand, that is. I bought my Jeep 5 years ago (new at the time), and just passed the 30,000 mile mark yesterday. Sounds like a reason to celebrate!

Espresso Ducks

Espresso Ducks
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Quack. I need caffeine, give me caffeine. ESPRESSO NOW. Quack.

I saw these guys while walking from the bus stop to work one day and thought they'd like to be blogged.

Field Closed - No Trespassing

Field Closed - No Trespassing
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Dogs and their people enjoyed this snowy day at Greenlake, and we enjoyed watching them chase each other. On the other side of the (closed) field, there is a sign that forbids dogs, too.

Bump on a Log

Bump on a Log
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Greenlake is normally not so calm and still. Here's a picture of the lake after a mild snowstorm last week.

Miracle Finish

Miracle Finish
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

In their first game of the 2006 season playoffs, the Seattle Seahawks barely escaped with a one-point win over the Dallas Cowboys. I truly felt like a Pacific Northwest Texan - I couldn't lose on this game!

The headline in the Seattle Times/PI the next day read "Miracle Finish". I got to enjoy the game with good friends in Belltown, and this shot was taken in downtown Seattle when I went back the next day to pick up my car.

Seattle's Public Market During the Holidays

Seattle's Public Market During the Holidays
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Posted a few weeks late: This photo was taken from the window of Matt's at the Market with the Slat Rat and Ski Boy during our annual holiday dinner. Seattle's Public Market is the official farmer's market on the waterfront, and to me, it is the center of Seattle. My guess is that most people know it from the Pike Place Fish Market where fish fly through the air past visitors, and the original Starbucks coffee shop.

West Texas Sunset

West Texas Sunset
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

One of the benefits of being in West Texas is that almost every night, there is an evening light show. This was taken on the way to Christmas dinner.

Tagine? I just want dinner.

Tagine Step 3 - Simmer for 2 hours
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

We decided to try out a tagine (also spelled as tajine), a North African cooking pot for stewing meals slowly over low heat. The idea is to chop up spices, brown the meat, and then cover with this funny-looking lid to let it simmer for 2 hours or more. The tagine works by letting the liquids condense and re-circulate, maintaining the moisture and resulting in fork-tender meat stews. It was quite tasty...

New camera! (and the cake ain't bad, either)

New camera!
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This was one of my first test photos from my new camera. I can already tell a difference, and I haven't even read the manual yet. Check out the detail on the crumbs and powdered sugar of this Gingerbread cake.

Seattle Weather Escapade 2: Branched Windshield (phone-cam pic)

Seattle Weather Escapade 2: Branched Windshield (phone-cam pic)
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

The Pacific Northwest has had its share of wind for the past few days. Two local bridges had to be shut down because of sustained winds over 50 mph, and there are pine trees and branches all over the roads. Today as a team member and I drove, we noticed a car next to us with a broken windshield. Upon further inspection, we saw that there is a tree branch sticking out of it! Either the owner suffered a drive-by attack from a gang of Douglas Firs, or they didn't feel like clearing it out before driving...

Seattle Weather Escapade 1: Snowman 2007 Client (phone-cam pic)

Seattle Weather Escapade 1: Snowman 2007 Client (phone-cam pic)
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I am currently consulting at a large software company with a good sense of humor. About a month ago, the Seattle area got hit with a snow/ice storm that shut down the city for a few days. On the first night of the storm, I walked out of the office to see this guy guarding the door. Snowmen are common, but the details on this one were not. At the bottom of his midsection, I saw that he has a full color security badge (he's from Bangalor), as well as his company issued cup for a hat. I got a good laugh out of him before I slipped and fell on my butt...

Bonsai - December

Bonsai - December
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Patience is definitely a virtue with this Bonsai, and it has only been about a year since I started pruning away... Check out the 'before' pictures below to see what I mean.

St. Peter's Basilica Dome

Vatican - St Peter's Dome
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

More of Italia: This was taken from the inside of St. Peter's Basilica. My camera couldn't possibly capture the intricate detail. Everything in here was incredibly detailed, from the floors to the statues, confessionals and tombs. This dome (also called the cupola) was designed by Michelangelo, and served as the model for the U.S. Capitol building.

Gianicolo

Gianicolo - Main
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This statue commemorates the battle of Gianicolo for Italian independence. This is near Vatican City on one of the hills of Rome, and has great views of the city. There is one statue for each of the men who fought in the battle, including Garibaldi and Medici.

Colosseum Gladiators

Colosseum Gladiators
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Don't worry - no lions were present.

Roman Colosseum

Colosseum Exterior
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Our trip to Italy was mostly intended to be a non-touristy occurrence. However, when in Rome...

British Airways - The plane

British Airways - The plane
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Frequent flier miles rule! This 747 took us across the Atlantic to Italia. The service was unbelievable, there were plenty of entertainment options, and we were just all-around happy campers. Plus, the flight crew loved the fact that we were newlyweds.

Ferry Tail

Ferry Tail
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Taken on the way out the other end of this ferry boat in the San Juan Islands off the Northwest coast of Washington State. Wish we were back there instead of in the office!

Morning Commute

Morning Commute
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Taken between bus stops, this made my morning.

Docking Station

Docking Station
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the original type of docking station and doesn't involve a laptop or a monitor. This grain terminal is consistently filling cargo ships on the Puget Sound. I run on the Myrtle Edwards waterfront park path along the water, and stopped to take this one afternoon. From a nearby sign: The pouring rate from shipping bins to vessel at full speed is 3,000 tons per hour. Wow.

Fremont Tower

Fremont Tower
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I've always wondered what it looks like to stand at the base of a radio or electrical tower to see what it looks like, and now I know. One more thing to cross off of my list... Now I just need to climb one and look down.

Kinnear Color

Kinnear Color
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I met a geocaching friend (Grossi) at Kinnear Park to find an extremely tough puzzle cache left 2 1/2 years ago. She found it in no time. While there, I snapped several pictures, but I think this one best illustrates the colors around Seattle right now.

It's Spring in Seattle!

It's Spring in Seattle!
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is Green Lake. Today, there were droves of dogs and their people walking, running and riding the trail, as well as kayaking, sailing and fishing. It's good to see the town wake up!

Green Lake

Green Lake
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

...and this is the actual lake. This is one of the personal-boat launch points. In the distance you can barely see mountain tops.

Lion's Gate Bridge

Lion's Gate Bridge
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This picture was snapped near where the S.S. Beaver crashed in 1888.

This is Vancouver's Lion's Gate suspension bridge on a rainy day.

Racoon by SS Beaver Plaque

Racoon by SS Beaver Plaque
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I was here at Stanley Park in Vancouver, B.C. to snap a few pictures of the historical monuments with my GPS, and this racoon wanted in on the action. He wasn't bashful at all...

May These Gates Never Close

May These Gates Never Close
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the International Peace Arch at the United States' northern border, taken from the Canada side. Up until a few years ago, a plank from the original Mayflower ship was inside the arch, but it was removed due to water damage. There is now a time capsule inside that will be opened in 2021.

Lets go Swimming!

Lets go Swimming!
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Two faithful labrador retrievers wait on a Madison Park dock on Lake Washington. The cascade mountains are visible in the background.

Mercer Island Suspension

Mercer Island Suspension
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This suspension footbridge is in the center of a large greenbelt park, in the center of an island, in the middle of Lake Washington. Mercer Island is betweeen Seattle and Bellevue, which are connected by I-90. I've always thought of this place as a highway exit along my morning commute until I explored the island today on the way home.

Leggo Viewpoint

Leggo Geocache Viewpoint
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Another stellar view on a winter afternoon from a different park on Queen Anne Hill - this was taken at stage one of a geocache:
Leggo of that cache!

Crane Brothers

Crane Brothers
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

As large cargo ships full of crated goods pull into the Puget Sound, they dock near cranes such as these to be unloaded. Niles is the crane on the right, and Frasier is to his left.

Sound Sunset

Sound Sunset
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Taken from my office window as the sun was setting. This is the same angle as my previous pictures - you can barely see the Olympic Mountains to the right.

Mt Hood Layers

Mt Hood Layers
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is Mount Hood, an icy volcano near Portland, Oregon, towering over Christmas Tree farms of various maturities. I had never seen a farm like this before moving to the Northwest. I thought they grew in parking lots...

Kids on a Rope

Kids on a Rope
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Has anyone else seen this? Apparently all it takes to get kids across downtown is a rope. Some of the munchkins were laughing and loud, while some were crying. They had two things in common, though: 1) They were bundled up far more than necessary for the weather conditions (just in case), and 2) They got SO much attention wherever they went.

Brush Cherry Bonsai - After

Brush Cherry Bonsai - After
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Here's how the same plant looks after pruning the weaker foliage and wiring the branches. Provided that my thumb turns green, this cherry tree will grow a thick and tapered trunk with nicely opposing horizontal branches over the next few years (but never grow over 2 feet tall.) We have a long way to go...

Brush Cherry Bonsai - Before

Brush Cherry Bonsai - Before
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

One of my goals was to start a career that allowed me to be home enough to have a plant. Today was the day! We picked up a brush cherry bonsai starter plant, and this is how it looked before pruning and wiring the branches. While it looks fine to me now, it will look better after training the branches and a lot of patience.

Urban Oasis - Washington Mutual Tower

Washington Mutual Tower
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

The sculpture-filled park at the base of this building will be where I hide my next geocache in a series focusing on art and architecture in downtown Seattle.

Seattle Office View

Seattle Office View
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Same view, better camera!

New Office View (Phone Pic)

New Office View (Phone Pic)
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I cannot complain about the view from my new office. Today is a clear, 43 degree day, and I can see the Olympic Mountains, West Seattle, and the ferry boat traffic into Elliott Bay.

Salsa to be

Salsa to be...
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

As preparation for the superbowl festivities, we prepare to roast tomatoes, serranos, jalapenos and a habanero pepper or two over an open flame. I enjoy the rich colors before preparation, and the spicy flavor afterwards.

Sunset Boats from the Rooftop

Sunset Boats from the Rooftop
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I enjoy taking my camera and a hot mug of tea up to my rooftop deck to watch the sunset... (in this particular case, on crutches. :-)

Looking uphill from the fall...

Looking uphill from the fall
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I had a great day skiing at Snoqualmie, but unfortunately, on one of my last planned runs of the day, my ski caught in the snow, and I tore a ligament or two in my knee. If you look closely at this picture, you can see the impression in the snow where I rolled.

So much snow!

So much snow!
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

During my time off between jobs, I decided to go skiing near Seattle since there had been record amounts of snowfall. This picture was taken from the Summit at Snoqualmie.

Peace be with you...

Christmas Ships
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the main vessel (an Argosy cruise boat) that held the Tahoma Girl's Choir. The choir serenaded Madison Park's beach with Christmas songs.

Rudolph Guides the Boat

Rudolph Guides the Boat
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Every year, a group of hundreds of Seattle yachts, motorboats and sailboats on Lake Washington are led by the Argosy to Madison Park for a Christmas show. This particular boat held Santa and his Reindeer. Some of the sailboats decorated their sails as Christmas trees, and in past years, the grinch has made an appearance.

Atlanta Sunrise

Atlanta Sunrise
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This was my view one morning after I arrived in Atlanta on a redeye flight.

Queen Anne Olympic View

Queen Anne Olympic View
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I took this picture on the other side of Queen Anne hill while the Slat Rat and Ski Boy searched for the 'Backwords at the Top of the Hill' geocache. In the background are The Brothers - matching Olympic mountains covered in snow. The foreground includes the Magnolia Bridge and many moored sailboats.

Queen Anne Cachers

Queen Anne Cachers
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Slat Rat and Ski Boy search for the 'Moon Over Queen Anne' geocache. This park overlooks the Lake Union seaplane landing area. (Note: I am LONG overdue in downloading and posting this and the next 4 pictures. This picture was taken several weeks ago.)

R2D2 Visits Midland

R2D2 Likes Lee High School
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

R2D2 stopped by the Christmas parade in Midland to inform me that he is not related to the red barbecue smoker pictured below. (Slatrat - yes, he's talking to you)

Steven's Pass

Steven's Pass
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

It's great to see the ski lifts running and plenty of snow this Thanksgiving. The snow industry in the Northwest was hurting throughout the season last year.

Snow Dogs at Steven's Pass

Snow Dogs at Steven's Pass
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Life is full of contrasts... Earlier this week, I was in flat and sunny Atlanta. This was my first snowshoeing experience, about 2.5 hours NE of Seattle. I met up with an old friend and met two new, along with four dogs who loved the snow.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Walrus!

Walrus at Arctic Building
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

In June, the Slatrat, Deepbluethought (not their real names, of course) and I took a trip away from work and placed a geocache right below this walrus. During that time, 55 people that I don't know have come and signed the log for the cache, and logged their responses online (see link below.) I took this picture on my return trip to change the log. This would have to be categorized as a success - the cache has not been discovered or lost in over 6 months, 55 people have found it who were looking, and only 2 people have had trouble finding it: http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?guid=d23364a6-24de-4db7-870f-c0a7f33ec84a&log=y&decrypt=

The Arctic (Walrus) Building

Arctic Building
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Courtesy of The Mercury Project, who found the "I am the Walrus" geocache in downtown Seattle. (see the next post.) The Arctic Building was built as a club for newly wealthy gold panners returning from Alaska, and is adorned by walri.

This is CNN. (Insert James Earl Jones here)

This is CNN.
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

You know, CNN Headquarters. And the Georgia Dome where the Falcons play. And the fog rolling away one morning. This is the view from my Atlanta hotel each morning and night. I know this probably counts more as 'Deep Southeast Ramblings', but hey - this is where I am most days lately. I still enjoy the Pacific Northwest on the weekends...

An Anchorage Slatrat Goes to Washington (Park Arboretum)

An Anchorage Slatrat Goes to Washington (Park Arboretum)
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the famous Slat Rat (cross country skier) down in my neck of the woods. Literally. She is standing on a mossy bridge in the Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle. This picture (taken by the Ski Boy) is a perfect Pacific Northwest prototype. There is green everywhere, with Western Red Cedars hanging like Cypress trees, moss, ferns, etc. (even though it's mid-October.) My guess is that most wouldn't expect the greenness until springtime...

Heading Out

Heading Out
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Taken from the front of the houseboat, this is our escort on the last trip of this vacation.

Summer Paradise, Hot Water, and Wahoo

Summer Paradise, Hot Water, and Wahoo
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Here are the three boats that we lived on for a week - Summer Paradise is the houseboat on the right.

Amazing Rainbow (of a different variety)

Amazing Rainbow
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Deep into Lake Powell, Rainbow Bridge is the world's largest natural bridge - formed by flowing water finding a shortcut underneath, rather than around rock formations.

Southern Lights?

Brilliant Utah Cloudscape
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Only two weeks ago, I saw the brilliant Northern Lights in Alaska. Now - I got to see the Southern Utah version in the desert...

Utah Cloudscape

Cloudscape
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

On the way to Lake Powell, we stopped to admire this sunset.

A Cloudy Sunset Reflection

A Cloudy Sunset Reflection
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the reflection of an amazing sunset on our rental van, on the way to Lake Powell.

Centrist - Me?

You are a Social Moderate (55% permissive) and an... Economic Conservative (61% permissive) You are best described as a: Centrist Link: The Politics Test on Ok Cupid Also: The OkCupid Dating Persona Test

Las Colinas

Las Colinas
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Ah, back in Las Colinas, Texas. It's been awhile! This time, it's only for a few days, though.

Los Amigos

Los Amigos
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I was SO happy to see los amigos again after almost a year, and to top it off, we all went to Freebirds!

Friday Harbor

Friday Harbor
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Taken while eating lunch at Friday Harbor, port of San Juan Island near Seattle. This is where we normally hang out while waiting for the ferry back to Seattle, and the visit always includes a visit to the barbecued oyster stand (and the same man has worked the grill for over 10 years.)

Interesting Timing...

Interesting Timing...
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Northwest Airlines mechanics on strike at Anchorage airport about 12 hours after NWA filed for bankruptcy.

Morning Sunrise

Morning Sunrise
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I can never get tired of these morning-meeting sunrise views in Anchorage...

Mr Moose

Mr Moose
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

A gift from Slatrat and Skiboy, Mr Moose will happily hold down the fort in Seattle and serve as a reminder of all of the unique beauty that awaits in Alaska...

We remember...

We remember...
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

On this cloudy September 11th, 2005, Seattle remembers. One of the many signs is this United States flag flying at half mast atop the Space Needle.

Humphrey the Hugging Orca

Humphrey the Hugging Orca
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

One of the main goals was to see an Orca. Mission accomplished! (P.S. - does she seem happy?)

Seward Highway Sunset

Seward Highway Sunset
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

On the road back from the Fjords, we saw Belugas and this colorful sunset.

Humpback Whale Back

Humpback Whale Back
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Shortly after this picture was taken, the whale fully breached - coming out of the water and landing on his back. This was an excellent finale for the Kenai Fjords tour...

It's starting to sink in for her...

It's starting to sink in for her...
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

And after a short surprised pause, she accepted.

Three Hole Point

Three Hole Point
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This spot will be remembered for quite awhile... Shortly after taking this picture, I proposed.

Stellar Sea Lions

Stellar Sea Lions
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

These are all the same color normally, however when they're wet, they look grey. When these sea lions have been in the sun for awhile, they look brown and fuzzy.

Green and White

Green and White
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Aialik Glacier and the floating icebergs that broke off of it...

Aialik Glacier

Aialik Glacier
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This glacier is over 700 feet tall, and 7,000 years old, according to our captain. We listened quietly as massive chunks of ice broke off into the sea. It sounded like thunder, and the waves rocked the boat. The experience was just amazing...

Otters Eating Oysters

Otters Eating Oysters
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

It wasn't long after departure that the captain slowed the boat and we got to see two Otters happily eating dinner. Now this is the life...

Kenai Fjords Glacier Boats

Kenai Fjords Tour Boats
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Ours was the second boat, the Glacier Explorer. This will give you an idea of the size of the boat that we were on for our glacier and wildlife cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park.

Seward Highway

Seward Highway
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

We saw Beluga whales and tidewater rapids in recession on the way down to Seward to see the Kenai Fjords

Denali from Downtown Anchorage

Denali from Downtown Anchorage
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Yesterday was quite an eventful day. Here's how it started. It's nice to open your window shade to this...

Clementine's Denali Rainbow

Clementine's Denali Rainbow
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Taken this evening - about a week after the previous rainbow pic posted below.

Clementine as Harry Potter

Clementine as Harry Potter
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

In honor of Clementine, the late super-pup of my trusted friend and co-worker Slat Rat. Check out her blog for another great pic of Clem.

Chugach Rainbow

Chugach Rainbow
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I'm back online, thanks to Slatrat lending me a camera cable. This was a quite large rainbow as viewed from the office one evening. The camera really doesn't capture how amazing it was...

No updates for a bit...

Homer
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Well, my camera cable is now 1500 miles away from me since I forgot to pack it. So - until I have a chance to get another cable or fly to Seattle, I won't be able to upload pics.

Attention Dogs

Attention Dogs
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Bilingual signage is required by the SPCA in Anchorage.

Chugach Mountain Sunrise

Chugach Mountain Sunrise
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

My view out the office window this morning... Not too bad!

Glacier Fed Lake and Blue Mountains

Glacier Fed Lake and Blue Mountains
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

See the long vertical ice pack at the lower left? That's a glacier working it's way down the mountain. The runoff forms a lake at the base. This is near Anchorage, and is viewed from a 737.

Alpine Crater Lake

Alpine Crater Lake
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Anyone up for a swim?

Mountain Peaks Above Clouds

Mountain Peaks Above Clouds
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

From the same flight, near Anchorage, Alaska.

Crescent Lake - Olympic Peninsula

Crescent Lake - Olympic Peninsula
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is magnificent Crescent Lake on Washington's Olympic Peninsula as seen from a 737.

Snowy Olympic Layers

Snowy Olympic Layers
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

These are the snowy Olympic Mountains as seen from a 737 in August.

Olympic Mountain Layers

Olympic Mountain Layers
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I love the layered look of mountains - these are the Olympic Mountains as seen from a 737.

Spotted Cow Plane

Spotted Cow Plane
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Merrill Field ground control, this is Charlie Oscar Whiskey requesting clearance for taxi to greener pastures, over.

Eleventh Air Wing Memorial

Eleventh Air Wing Memorial
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is a tribute to those who died or were captured as part of the 'Forgotten Front' during WWII. Anchorage started it's growth during the war when Elmendorf Air Force Base was built here as the staging ground for the Aleutian Air Campaign. For more information (and why I went there in the first place) visit: www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?guid=ba8791a4-...

BBQ at the Lake

BBQ at the Lake
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

My humble little smoker on the day of the Blue Angels... This $19 pit has definitely been worth it's cost. Today I smoked two pork loins and grilled 24 burgers.

Blue Angels in Formation

Blue Angels in Formation
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Another shot of the Blue Angels in formation (notice the plane that took off to the left.)

Blue Angels Climbing

Blue Angels Climbing
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Here are all of the Blue Angels climbing straight up. Immediately after this shot, they split into several directions over Lake Washington.

Virginia V

Virginia V
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the Virginia V on Lake Washington. It's normal home is on Lake Union next to Duke's Chowder House. Mmmm... Dukes...

Mama Moose and Mooselet

Mama Moose and Mooselet
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is a MUCH better picture of the 2 moose that I first posted here. It's a good thing that we were stealthy... I don't think the baby moose knew that we were there.

Hurricane Gulch

Hurricane Gulch
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This bridge spans Hurricane Gulch north of Wasilla.

Haul Road (Dalton Highway)

Haul Road (Dalton Highway)
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This road is longer than 400 miles - none of it paved. It connects the Alaskan interior to the North Slope near the Arctic Ocean.

Marmot? Tundra Prairie Dog?

Marmot? Tundra Prarie Dog?
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Ladybug just got her pictures uploaded from the Denali trip, so here are a few from her camera. I know this guy as a prairie dog, but someone else on the trail called it a marmot. Can anyone help here?

Turnagain House

Turnagain House
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Overcast and chilly South of Anchorage: the locals claim that Fall has set in already. The team had dinner at Turnagain House, which is very close to the water with spectacular mountain views. The drive out to the restaurant is always breathtaking. My recommendation: get the Cajun Chili Kodiak Scallops.

Orca Float

Orca Float
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This was the Ladybug's favorite - what a sweet looking KILLER WHALE!

Torchlight Parade - Southwest Airlines Float

Torchlight Parade - Southwest Airlines Float
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Southwest Airlines sponsored the Torchlight Parade, which had a Hollywood theme this year. Note the characters aboard... Somewhere on the float is Darth Vader, Dorothy, Groucho and others.

Runaway Brides - Seafair 5K

Runaway Brides - Seafair 5K
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

View from the Rainier Club in Seattle with our friends Mike and Karen - overlooking the end of the Seafair 5K race. Yes, these are runaway brides...

Iron Horse Trail Sunset

Iron Horse Sunset
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the sunset on the way back down the Iron Horse Trail.

Project APE Log

Project APE Log
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the original 'Project APE' cache log from July of 2001 which I signed today. This is amazing, since caches and logs probably only average about 6 months at a time before they are plundered or get wet.

Woohoo - #200!

Woohoo - #200!
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the largest geocache that I've found, and it was FULL of schwag. It's also unique - it was placed in July of 2001 as part of a 20th Century Fox promotion, and is one of only five remaining in the world. This is at the top of the Iron Horse trail, an abandoned train line that cuts through Snoqualmie Pass.

Purple Foxgloves

Purple Foxgloves
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

The last remaining Foxgloves are the season are still hanging in there on the Annette Lake trail.

He's heading to the cache too...

He's heading to the cache too...
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

The same blacktail deer casually trots along like a donkey on the trail in front of us.

Project APE Blacktail Deer

Project APE Blacktail Deer
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This blacktail deer (center of the photo) watches us as we approach on the Iron Horse trail.

Ladybug Waterfall

Ladybug Waterfall
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Waterfall on the Annette Lake trail... She wanted to jump in, but I wouldn't let her.

Waterfall Near Iron Horse Trail

Waterfall Near Iron Horse Trail
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I went on a trek to find my 200th geocache this week, but didn't have much luck. However - I very much enjoyed the trail that got us close! This is the 100 mile Iron Horse trail that starts just West of Snoqualmie Pass and extends to Cle Ellum. It started out as a railroad company's right of way, but turned into a state park and bike trail after it filed for bankruptcy.

Seagulls Chasing Eagles

Seagulls Chasing Eagles
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Seconds before my camera actually clicked, there were hundreds of Seagulls chasing a Bald Eagle over the Interational Fountain at Seattle Center. He must have eaten one of them... Don't worry - he got away.

U.S. Coast Guard Escort

U.S. Coast Guard Escort
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This weekend on a ferry boat from Seattle to a nearby island, I saw a friendly 'escort' outside the port side of the boat. Times have certainly changed...

Under the Crowded Needle @ Bite of Seattle

Under the Crowded Needle @ Bite of Seattle
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Bite of Seattle brought a few more folks into the Seattle Center than normal. I'm not complaining though, since I was able to get chicken satay, catfish, hush puppies, a coconut, and fresh squeezed cherry lemonade from the best restaurants in Seattle for $14 while listening to the bands play. Seems like a fair tradeoff to me...

Chugach Range from Denali Tower

Chugach Range from Denali Tower
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

These are the Chugach mountains just East of Anchorage, where there is always a storm brewing.

Denali from Denali Tower

Denali from Denali Tower
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This is the highest point in North America at over 20,000 feet above sea level (yes, that's it in the center.) It may look small from this view, but cut it some slack - it's about 150 miles away as the crow flies...

Sunset Over Lake Hood

Sunset Over Lake Hood
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Float plane and sunset over Lake Hood

Sunset View from the Fancy Moose

Sunset View from the Fancy Moose
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Sunset view from within the netted section of the Fancy Moose

The Fancy Moose

The Fancy Moose
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

The next stop on Ellen's farewell tour... The Fancy Moose in the Millenium on Lake Hood.

Look Out!

Look Out!
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Entrance to the Fly By Night Club

Outside the Fly By Night Club

Outside the Fly By Night Club
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Part of the team outside the Fly By Night Club for Ellen's farewell party...

Anchorage Sunset over Mt. Susitna

Anchorage Sunset over Mt. Susitna
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Also taken from my hotel room window... That's Mt. Susitna on the left, otherwise known as the 'Sleeping Lady'.

Anchorage Sunset from Hotel

Anchorage Sunset from Hotel
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Taken from my hotel room at about 11pm...

Kerry Park w Mt. Rainier

Kerry Park w Mt. Rainier
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

On my way back home from Carkeek Park, I noticed that Mount Rainier was out in her full glory, so I stopped by Kerry Park to snap this pic.

The "Brothers" Mountains and Sailboat

The "Brothers" Mountains and Sailboat
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

The snowcapped mountains across the water are called the brothers, and are part of the Olympic Mountain chain.

Carkeek Park: South Bluff and Olympics

Carkeek Park: South Bluff and Olympics
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

After continuing on the Piper trail, I came upon South Bluff and this view of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. I can't believe this is all in the city...

Carkeek Park: Orchard Apples Aplenty

Carkeek Park: Orchard Apples Aplenty
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Every tree was overloaded with apples... I wonder if they're tasty? This orchard is right in the middle of the forested park - no trees or society to be heard from here.

Carkeek Park: Piper Orchard

Carkeek Park: Piper Orchard
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I was on a geocaching trip that led me from one end of Seattle's Carkeek park through a dense forest, with creeks running through, and ended up here in this apple orchard.

Daylight Savings

Daylight Hours
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This sign is posted at the TransAlaska Pipeline visitor center just North of Fairbanks. You read it correctly - there are roughly 3 hours per day in which the sun dips below the horizon...

Pipeline Cross Section

Pipeline Cross Section
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

The 'pigs' in the pipeline travel through the pipe cleaning the walls.

TransAlaska Pipeline in Perspective

Pipeline Perspective
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Just North of Fairbanks...

Kincaid Park Caching

I'm famous! My friend (and client co-worker) Stephanie's blog entry from Monday: http://radio.weblogs.com/0104723/2005/07/13.html#a2319

City Moose

City Moose
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

You can barely make them out here, but a mama and 2 baby moose stepped out of the woods on the right (just outside of view) to cross the street. When I first came across them, they weren't more than 15 yards away, but it took me a minute to get over the shock and pull out my camera phone.

Anchorage Bear Sign

Anchorage Bear Sign
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Bears? In the city?

Seattle drawbridge

Seattle drawbridge
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

I'm still not used to the concept of waiting on a drawbridge...

No squatting dogs.

No squatting dogs.
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Is it me, or does this dog look like it's in pain?

Midnight sunset

Midnight sunset
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

This picture was taken at around 11:52pm on the road to Fairbanks...

Fairbanks at 01:35am

Fairbanks at 01:35am
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

See the daylight behind the Fairbanks clock tower? It's 1:35am! Shortly after this, a motorboat full of people drove by on the Chena river...

Baby moose

Baby moose
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

Mooseling? Mooselet?