AVCR8TEUR'S PHOTO BLOG

Wordless Wednesday - Contortionist

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

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- Karen

Evening and Morning at Sun Moon Lake

2012-01-28T14:00:00.000-08:00

We arrived at our first night's tour hotel, Fleur de Chine, in the late afternoon. It was one of the most amazing hotels I have ever stayed at. Each room has a private scenic veranda and a natural hot spring bathtub.
The fountain in the hotel's driveway changes colors at night.

Our room.

The view from our balcony.
Sun Moon Lake below and another hotel in the distance.

After exploring our room, it was just in time to watch the sunset at the hotel's many lookouts.

A stationary binocular is available for guests at the lookout.

The next day, we got up at the crack of dawn to explore the trail just below the hotel that takes walkers around the lake. The flat trail of wooden planks made for an easy hike.

Just watch out for the dangerous looking spiders such as this one lurking in the trees.

There were some boats by the lake's edge and they look either abandoned or used for hauling.

After walking a mile or so, the trail leads to the water-level of the lake where you can actually touch the water. In the foreground, those appear to be little islands with trees jutting out in the middle of the lake.
In the distance, you can make out the silhouette of Cih-en Pagoda on the top-right of the first mountain range. Can you see it?

- Karen

Wen Wu Temple & Peacock Garden

2012-01-27T00:01:00.000-08:00

One of the last two stops on the tour before heading to our hotel was Wen Wu Temple.
This is one of two lions standing guard over the temple and it was the first thing I noticed upon entering.

This is the entrance gate I passed through upon entering into the temple. You can see Sun Moon Lake in the background.

Incense is burnt in a huge urn inside the temple.

The 3-D relief artwork inside the temple is exquisite.

At the top of the temple, you have a great view of Sun Moon Lake during sunset.

A few miles away from the temple is the entrance to Peacock Garden where peacocks and other birds are reared.

Even the gate to the peacocks' habitat is created in the form of a peacock.

Have you seen so many peacocks?
There were even a few albino peacocks in the distance which I have never seen before.

Other than peacocks, the Formosan Blue Magpie, Taiwan's national bird, also lives at the garden.
It is part of the crow family and can only be found in the Taiwan area.

Next door to the magpie was the Golden Pheasant usually found in the mountainous regions of Western China. This is a male golden pheasant with its bright plumage to attract the female.

This is a golden pheasant as well, but I wonder if it is female because of its plainer colors.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - All Aboard

2012-01-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

To participate or visit other Wordless Wednesday posts, click here.

- Karen

Cih-en Pagoda

2012-01-21T20:00:00.000-08:00

Not far from Ita Thao, on the other side of Sun Moon Lake, is the Cih-en Pagoda. You can see it in the distance right before the hike up to its location. President Chiang Kai-Shek built it in 1971 in memory of his mother.

Even the lamp posts in the area have the sun and moon symbols.

From the bottom, it is approximately a 700 meters (1/2 mile) walk to the pagoda on the Cih-en Pagoda Trail.
It is a fairly easy hike on a paved road with greenery all around.

Depending on your pace, within 20 minutes, you will reach the 9-story pagoda plus 3 stories at the base.

There are no elevators, so you will have to take the staircase up 12-stories. Close to the top is a net in case of falls.

Also at the top is a bell visitors can ring for good fortunate. During our visit, a number of people struck the bell too hard and it became quite annoying.
Remember to strike it gently to save the eardrums of those visitors still inside the pagoda!

A view from the top to the base of the pagoda.

A view of Sun Moon Lake from the top of the pagoda's lookout.

- Karen

Ita Thao by Sun Moon Lake

2012-01-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

After spending 2 full days in Taipei, our real tour of the country began.
We booked a "5-Day/4-night Around Taiwan Island Tour" through Edison Travel a few weeks before we left home.

Our 5 day covered approximately 1350 km (838 miles) as drawn on this map of the island by our tour guide.
The small circles drawn were our sightseeing and overnight stops.

Our first major destination was Ita Thao Village by the scenic Sun Moon Lake. The area was severely damaged during a 1999 earthquake, but has been restored to attract tourists and maintain the Thao tribe's livelihood and culture. The Thao people are one of the many aboriginal tribes in Taiwan.

This is the village's main commercial thoroughfare and most visited by tourists.
As narrow and crowded as the street is, cars still drive by every so often so one has to be watchful.

Another view of the main thoroughfare from a different angle.
The building on the left is a hotel/restaurant with big windows for a beautiful view of the lake.

Right outside of the hotel/restaurant is the pier that leads to Sun Moon Lake.
Why Sun Moon Lake? The east side of the lake resembles a sun while the west side resembles a moon, but in my opinion, I think you have to use your imagination to really see it.

At the end of the pier is this pavilion with the Sun Moon Lake name on the center post. Lots of tourists like to take their photos here with the lake in the background.

Opened in 2009, this ropeway consisting of 86 cars taking tourists up the mountain for a panoramic view of Sun Moon Lake and to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village at the other end. The cultural park features amusement rides, museums, and dance shows of various aboriginal tribes to serve both as entertainment and educational.

Various food booths on the main thoroughfare.

This vendor was very popular and always drew a crowd when I was there.
I believe she is mixing all the vegetarian ingredients that will be wrapped in dough and then deep fried.

I did try food from this vendor. The steamed white buns with spicy vegetables centered in the middle were delicious for this hungry tourist.

A mural depicts the Thao people at the entrance to the main street. As you can see, the lake and the owl are important to them.
Why an owl? Here is the story I found on a tourist information page... "According to Thao's legend, the owl is the incarnation of a Thao's girl, who was pregnant without being married. All Thao people, including her parents, could not forgive her. In a stormy night, she escaped into the mountain. After several days, a Thao's hunter found her dead body under a tree and an owl staying on the top of the tree. They believed the owl was her incarnation. Afterwards, an owl would fly over the house where a pregnant woman is living. The owl seems to tell Thao people that they have to take good care of the pregnant women.

I did not know this until I returned home to do some research of this store. Lin Yi-bei has a degree in interior design and worked in a design firm in Taipei. After getting tired of the fast-paced city, she wanted to slow down. One day she drove by Sun Moon Lake and saw a Formosan mountain scops owl and it was love. Gave up her job, studied about owls, opened this store and the rest is history.
You can read more about Lin Yi-bel here.

There's even an owl cafe, but it wasn't open when I was there.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Monarch Butterflies

2012-01-17T16:01:00.000-08:00

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- Karen

Taipei City Tour - Part 2

2012-01-15T00:01:00.000-08:00

Our tour guide took us to one of the oldest Taoist temples in the city.

The ornate and colorful icons on the roof are very intriguing.
Similar looking temples are seen all over the island.

An elaborate altar includes flowers, fruits, and burning incense.
I can't tell if the decorations are made of real gold or are gold-plated.

If they are made of real gold, perhaps that is why they are in need of donations.
Your name will be added to one of these figures for a small monetary gift.

Our last stop of the tour was the National Palace Museum.
I only have a picture of its exterior since no photography was allowed inside.
Our guide spent over an hour walking through the various exhibits and explaining their significance. Unfortunately, this was when my jet lag took over and my concentration level was waning fast.
The "100" symbol you see on the museum's exterior signifies the showing of 100 national treasure masterpieces to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the establishment of the Republic of China aka Taiwan.

- Karen

Taipei City Tour - Part 1

2012-01-13T00:01:00.000-08:00

Our travel agency suggested we take a half-day tour of Taipei, the capital of Taiwan. We could have easily visited these attractions on our own using public transportation if we had more time.
Our first stop was the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a tribute to the country's former President and General which opened in 1980.
The structure is 249 ft. tall and made of concrete & marble. According to Wikipedia, there are 89 steps that lead to the top representing the age of his death in 1975.
I wished I had known this beforehand so I could have counted them although our tour guide opted for us to use the elevators instead.

What is inside this structure on the first floor? It is a big hall.

Unfortunately being in a tour group, I did not have time to get a thorough look around the big hall which houses a museum and library. If you are wondering what everyone is looking at in the previous photo, there was a model of the memorial hall and its surrounding area.

After getting out of the elevator, visitors encounter a huge statue of Chiang Kai-shek.
From my understanding he is not buried here, but at a military cemetery in the northern part of the country.

Seen here is one of two soldiers who stand guard by the statue.
They kind of remind me of the Buckingham Palace Guards where tourists try to distract them to no avail.

This is the other side of the memorial with the beautifully manicured garden.

The last 3 photos are of Martyrs' Shrine, a place to honor those soldiers who sacrificed their lives defending Taiwan. Twice a year, officials hold public services on the grounds to pay their respects.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Little Man Lamps & Mirror

2012-01-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

It's Wordless Wednesday! Visit other participants here.

- Karen

On the 89th Floor

2012-01-08T21:00:00.000-08:00

After getting off the elevator at the 89th floor, visitors are greeted by the Damper Baby mascot.
What is a Damper Baby? You will soon see...
Everyone wanted a picture by this mascot. I had to wait for awhile before I could get him/her alone for a photograph.

One can get a 360 degree view of the city by walking all around the observation deck. Binoculars are stationed at various locations, but most people just looked out or took photos through the UV-protected windows.

Here are two panoramic views from the 89th floor. Being over 1,200 ft. above ground, I did not really know what I was looking at especially if I am not familiar with the city. So, visitors are offered recorded audio guides that come in 8 different languages to lead them through the area.

Being such a tall building in an area known for earthquakes, typhoons, and strong winds, a damper is housed within the structure to act like a pendulum to counteract the building's movements. At 730 tons, it is the world's largest and heaviest damper and I read it can move 5 feet in any direction.
Visitors can see the damper on the 88th and 89th floors. If there had been any movement to the building, one can see that thing rock. I am glad I did not get to see such action.

I found this picture on Wikipedia of the damper's placement within the building.
You can now see why it is a unique aspect to the building and thus the "Damper Baby" is its mascot.

There is a display touting the building has the fastest elevator in the world rising at 1010 meters/minute (3300 ft/minute). In 2014, the Shanghai Tower, currently being built in China, is scheduled to eclipse its record as being the fastest at 1066 meter/minute (3500 ft/minute).

If visitors are tired of the views, they can sit at the Bigtom cafe to have a drink or dessert. This must be Big Tom.

This is a view of the interior observation deck (89th floor). It is quite spacious with chairs and gift shops.

Many visitors packed the photo area to view or purchase their souvenir photograph taken of them with the building.

- Karen

Ground Floors

2012-01-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

The entrance to the Taipei 101 mall is packed with foodies, shoppers, and tourists throughout the day.

Foodies head to the basement level's Grand Market to satisfy their appetite in a 1,200-seat food court.
There's even a eatery named after me!

Dozens of food vendors stacked next to each other ready to sell you noodles, rice dishes, fruit drinks, desserts, and everything in-between.
We had to walk around several times to decide what we wanted. And once we decided on a vendor, we had to decide on the food.
Talk about choices!

No, I did not eat at the restaurant named after me. By the time I was hungry, the place was packed.
I instead ate this combo plate consisting of noodles, vegetables, and a soup.
All for the unbelievable price of $110 NT (approximately $3.64 USD). The food court's napkins and soup spoons bear the famous building's namesake.
Serious foodies who have more expensive taste can head to the 35th, 85th, or 86th floor for more refined dining.

Shoppers head to the upper levels to buy the latest designer fashions at high-end brand name stores.

Tourists make their way to the 5th floor to purchase tickets to the building's 89th floor indoor observatory. The tickets are $400 NT per adult and $370 NT per child ($13.24 USD and $12.25 USD, respectively).
Unfortunately, the 91st floor outdoor observatory was closed due to strong winds on the day of our visit.

Here is a long line of tourists waiting for the elevators to go northbound to the 89th floor. The line moved fairly quickly because the elevator operator really jammed as many people in there as possible. I do not know the elevator's maximum capacity, but I sure felt like a sardine during the journey. Luckily, it is the world's fastest elevator reaching the 89th floor in 37 seconds as seen in this video taken by another tourist.

- Karen

Love Theme

2012-01-05T12:01:00.000-08:00

Walking through a busy Taipei street, we came across this interesting Love sign. Quite a few people were posing in front of it and I usually don't pass on anything that calls for a photograph.

Aside from the Love sign were a number of displays like this one.
I believe all were sponsored by the Chinatrust Bank because of its "We are family" slogan.

The exhibits were all along this one sidewalk.

Outside the Taipei 101 building is the famed Robert Indiana "Love" sculpture. I had no idea one would be here.
There are quite a few of these situated throughout the world such as New York, Philadelphia, Tokyo, Istanbul, ...etc. as listed on Wikipedia.
Have you come across one yourself?

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Kicking Good Time

2012-01-04T00:01:00.000-08:00

First Wordless Wednesday of the year.
Visit other participants here.

- Karen

Late Arrival

2012-01-02T11:23:00.000-08:00

We arrived into Taipei, Taiwan late into the evening and it was close to midnight after the 40 minute ride from the airport and checking into the hotel. I guess that's what you get for trying to look for "bargain" airfare at the last minute.
We were unfamiliar with the area around the hotel, but we found a 7-Eleven nearby that was open. 7-Elevens are everywhere in Taiwan!
But, before going in, I spotted this poster outside. Yes, I am an Angry Bird fan.
Since I do not read Chinese, I could not decipher what it said, but could guess. I sent this picture to a friend and she had it translated it for me. :)
Not much of a dinner, but we did buy some snacks to bring back to the hotel room.

All the Taiwan hotels we stayed in had an amenity of complimentary personal hygiene products for their guests. I didn't really had to unpack since we were just staying at this hotel for one night.

After only a few hours of sleep, we got up early and went to eat our complimentary breakfast that came with the hotel room stay.

We brought our luggage to our next hotel for storage, figured out the subway system, and headed over to the Taipei 101 building.
I had wanted to come here for years after seeing it on television. Back then, it was the tallest building in the world. Now it is only the 2nd tallest building in the world at 1,670 ft. (509 m) after the Burj Khalifa skyscraper.

- Karen

Happy 2012 & Trip Report

2011-12-31T15:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's to Everyone!
I can't believe how fast the year has gone by.
Wishing you health, happiness, and good fortune in 2012!

I guess the last day of the 2011 is as good as any to start my trip report.
Our vacation to Taiwan had a brief stopover at Tokyo's Narita Airport.
A giant Gundam greets us as we enter our first stop at a toy store.

What's a toy store without a full collection of Ultraman figures.

No, this is not a restaurant, but the same toy store that also sells miniature food replicas. For a 5,000 yen ($65 USD or $50 Euro) replica, eating real food is cheaper.

A nearby airport eatery offers this menu. Yep, real food is less expensive than the replica.

Without any yens in my pocket, I opted for the inflight meal on All Nippon Airlines on my way to Taipei.

- Karen

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-24T22:34:00.001-08:00

Wishing everyone happy holidays from Taiwan! I hope you have a wonderful time with family and friends.

This photo was taken from our hotel with a huge Christmas tree in its atrium.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Papa Bear

2011-12-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!
To visit other participants, click here.

Note: I will be on vacation in Taiwan and Hong Kong for the next few weeks. I do not know if I will have time to post.
If not, Happy Holidays to all my readers and see you in a few weeks!

- Karen

Santacon - San Francisco Style

2011-12-11T10:31:00.000-08:00

Santacon is the only event I know where one can see a large gathering of happy Santas in one location. There had to be close to 500 Santas and holiday-related costumers converging onto the steps of San Francisco's City Hall.

It didn't take long before the rowdy crowd took over the street and blocked all traffic from passing through.

The goal of Santacon San Francisco is for the Santas to congregate and then bar-hop through the city. Not a very family-oriented event.
Once many of them have left for their drinking adventure, I was able to get onto the City Hall steps and take a picture of the remaining crowd.

- Karen

Fish Fountain

2011-12-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

Even though these fishes are out of their element, they have plenty of water and money at the bottom of the fountain for sustenance.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-06T17:53:00.001-08:00

Friend or Foe?

2011-12-04T00:01:00.000-08:00

Floating high above the air.
It's not a bird, it's not a plane,...
Is it a dog, a bear, or an alien in purple pajamas?
Is it waving to us below to show us he is friendly?
He has a huge mouth, but luckily, no teeth, although he can swallow us whole.
Should we be worried or welcoming?

- Karen

Window Shopping

2011-12-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

Went window shopping and encountered these ladies who were there before me.
Aren't they elegant in their evening furs?
They seemed quite excited and gaggling amongst themselves.
I tried to ask them what all the commotion was all about, but they would not pay any attention to me.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Street Mural

2011-11-30T00:01:00.000-08:00

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- Karen

Hidden Stairway

2011-11-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

In case anyone overindulged during Thanksgiving or any other time, San Francisco has a few staircases where you work off some weight.
A few months ago, I walked with a meetup group through San Francisco and encountered a number of "hidden" staircases. Well, they weren't actually hidden if you knew where to look for them.

The picture here is of the "Farnsworth Steps" on Farnsworth Lane. It was named after Philo Farnsworth who was one of the first inventors of the television back in the late 1920's. Mr. Farnsworth used to live at the end of this stairway.

You have your choice of walking off your food at a number of San Francisco stairways listed here on the sisterbetty.org website.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Fishing Pier

2011-11-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

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- Karen

Memories at the Moving Wall

2011-11-19T12:00:00.000-08:00

Continuing the story of my Moving Wall outing...
I don't mean to pry, but some of the items left at the Moving Wall were quite touching like these teddy bears.
Click on the photo to enlarge.
The note says she has been missing him for 39 years!

Remembering lost buddies?

This is the truck that hauls The Moving Wall along with a host of other notable items like...

A board that shows the timeline from the start to the end of World War II to...

A board that pays tribute to all the soldiers who gave their lives to fight the global war on terror.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - The Moving Wall

2011-11-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

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- Karen

Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

November 11th is known as Veteran's Day in the United States and a day to honor military veterans past and present.
These photos were taken from last year's Veteran's Day Parade.
This motorcycle rider in the fancy patriotic hat is part of the Patriot Guard Riders who participated in the parade. The group's mission as taken from their website is

Attend military funerals and show our sincere respect for our fallen heroes, their families, and their communities.
Shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors.

Pictures of military heroes past and present carried by volunteers on the parade route.

A special THANKS to all the military veterans today and everyday!

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Water Tower

2011-11-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

It's Wordless Wednesday again!
Visit participating bloggers here.

- Karen

Toothpick Art

2011-11-06T21:00:00.000-08:00

Why is this man wearing a funny hat?
He is, Scott Weaver, an artist and creator of toothpick sculptures like the hat he is wearing.
He doesn't just build toothpick structures, he builds them in such a way that you can roll ping pong balls through them from one end to the other.

This huge 9 ft x 7 ft (2.74m x 2.13m) sculpture called "Rolling Through the Bay" with famous San Francisco landmarks was displayed at a local county fair several months ago.
What started as a school project in the 4th grade, it eventually morphed into this unique piece 36 years and 103,487 toothpicks later . His teacher would be proud.

Close up of San Francisco's Palace of Fine Arts.

Close up of San Francisco's Coit Tower.

- Karen

Falmouth, Jamaica Revisited

2011-11-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

Upon disembarking our ship in Falmouth, we were captivated by these lively entertainers at the port.

This talented carver displays his wares for people to buy.

In town, not far from the port, is the historical Albert George Marketplace and named after Queen Victoria's grandsons, Albert and George (who later became King George V).
According to internet sources, it was built in 1894, and was the place to be to buy almost anything from produce to slaves. It was refurbished in 1989 and now sells mostly crafts.

Built in 1815, this is the city's town hall and courthouse. It was later destroyed by fire and this replica was built in the 1920's.
There is so much history here and unfortunately, I did not know about them until I did research for this blog post.

This looks like the tax collector's office. I guess no matter where you are, you cannot escape from taxes.

(Note: My first Falmouth post was on October 7th and can be found here).

Have a good weekend,
Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Window

2011-11-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

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- Karen

Halloween Going to the Dogs and Kids

2011-10-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome! Enter here if you dare.
A neighboring town held its first annual dog and kids Halloween costume contest on Friday.
It is always nice to see the community coming together to have some fun.

Scamp, the dog, leads the way in the costume parade.
Hmmm, I'm not sure if Scamp really needed a hula skirt and bikini top.

Coffee lovers take notice.
This is a cute homemade costume! Mom is even holding the coffee spoon.

Happy Halloween if you celebrate it!

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Red Bench

2011-10-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

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- Karen

Other Encounters

2011-10-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

Continuing on our hike...
It started off at a trail that is closed to the public because of the creek bed that runs by this path. The creek is completely dry now, but I was told that when the rainy season is in full force, this creek fills up and the water runs into the nearby reservoir.
On this special hike, we were escorted by the local ranger.

You can see the filled Calero Reservoir where the water from the creek flows into.

What do you think this is growing on a tree we encountered during our journey?

Someone cut it up and said it is an avocado that is still growing. Well, I guess not anymore since it's been cut.

Last, but not least, a tarantula greets us by the side of the road. It wanted to hitch a ride with one of us, but each of us said "No!".

- Karen

Encounters

2011-10-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

On my hike last weekend, we came across a few wild turkeys crossing the road.
They must have been in a hurry to get somewhere because they would not stop to give us directions.

This unidentified laid back arachnid was too entangled in its own affairs than to give us the time of day.

Can you hear the screams? They are deafening!

Little Orange Creature screams: "Run, run, ...the giant humans are coming!"

Giant Humans scream: "Run, run, ...the little scary-looking orange creature is coming!"

Happy Friday,
Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Feed the Can

2011-10-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

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- Karen

Notes to Steve

2011-10-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

It has been almost 2 weeks since Steve Jobs passed away, but the tribute to him still stands at this Apple store in Steve's home town of Palo Alto, California.
I made my way there last Friday after hearing on the news that all the little notes written by people would soon taken down. Some of you might have seen similar tributes close to where you live.
The California Governor declared today, Sunday, as "Steve Jobs Day". A private memorial service for him is to be held tonight at Stanford University.

- Karen

Vasona Lake Park Bridge

2011-10-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Even during this overcast day, this brightly colored bridge illuminates the center of Vasona Park in Los Gatos, CA (approximately 50 miles south of San Francisco).

A popular place for photographers and joggers alike.

Even pigeons use it as a place to get a "birds-eye" view of the people below.

Have a nice weekend!

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday - Conversations

2011-10-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!
Click here to view other participant posts.

- Karen

Falmouth, Jamaica

2011-10-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

Here is the coconut vendor standing not far from the juice vendor in my previous post.
I didn't see him cutting up the whole coconuts so customers can drink the juice.
As a tourist without carrying a heavy-duty knife, I would not know what to do with a whole coconut with the exocarp (outermost layer) and husk still attached.

After the juice and coconut vendors, tourists can peruse the boards along this paved walkway.
The boards explain the history of Jamaica and the the town of Falmouth where our ship was docked.

As I come to the end of the walkway, I noticed this board. I didn't realize the 3-time Olympic gold medal winner, world record holder, and now the world's fastest man, Usain Bolt, grew up not far from here.

After you leave the port area, you come to the edge of town where a policeman directs traffic.
To come back into the port area, you have to show an ID to prove you are either a passenger or a port worker.

I like all the colorful merchandise and island wear.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants here.

- Karen

Caribbean Cruise

2011-09-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I went on a 7-day Caribbean cruise with the family on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's newest and largest ship, Allure of the Seas.
The view you see is from Deck 16 looking down towards the back of the ship. You can see the balcony rooms facing each other. One guy on the upper right is looking through his binoculars.
Below is the "Boardwalk" on Deck 6 where you can see some outdoor restaurants and the Aqua Theater at the back.

On our 3rd day and our first stop is Labadee, Haiti, Royal Caribbean's privately-owned area. I read only cruise tourists and local merchants are allowed into this area.

What to do on this private resort?
Picnic & BBQ, relax, get some sun, nap, water sports.
For the more adventurous, go on the Dragon Breath zip line which starts at the top of the mountain and take you along the beach as seen here by a tourist's video I found on Youtube.
Or, you can go on the Dragon Tail roller coaster also seen here from another tourist's video.

This is the view of the beach as our ship sails away during the later afternoon. We were the only Royal Caribbean ship there at the time. The beach is now empty of any tourist.

Back in January 2010, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated Haiti. The epicenter was close to its capital of Port-au-Prince about 250km (155 miles) away.
There are two points of view about stopping in Haiti. One is tourists stopping here help out the Haitian economy. The other view is how can people come here to enjoy themselves when residents are suffering.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Wordless Wednesday.
Check out other participant posts here.

- Karen

Chalk Festival

2011-09-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

Talent, imagination, and patience were showcased this weekend at the local chalk art festival.
Buy a square and start drawing.

This artist draws a geisha girl with a gas mask and origami cranes on fire. It must be referencing the recent disaster in Japan.
Such a beautiful drawing, but with a somber mood.

Of course living in Silicon Valley, a geeky tech drawing is never too far away.

Look out, don't fall into the abyss!

Someone must love cupcakes and desserts.

- Karen

Inflation & Deflation

2011-09-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

You have to be an early bird to participate or attend a balloon event.
Here a group is testing their balloon's torch and propane tanks 5 a.m. in the morning. All around the open field, pockets of torches light up the darkness.

It takes a team to inflate a hot air balloon.
The flames from the propane gas is hot and scary. Once the temperature reaches 200-300 degrees Fahrenheit, the air rises inside the balloon and makes it stand upright.
Anticipation for a great flight builds.

The fun ends when the balloon touches down. Here the "Wells Fargo Bank" stagecoach balloon comes to a halt and is being deflated.
Again, it takes a team to get the air out of the balloon and then fold it back up. You get a sense of how enormous these things are by looking at the people standing next to them.

This Smokey the Bear balloon is getting ready for hibernation by 8:30 a.m.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants here.

- Karen

Balloon Races

2011-09-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

Attended my first balloon race over the weekend.
Despite the early hour start time to see the balloons get inflated, I was not disappointed.
A little after sunrise, the official balloon of the Great Reno Balloon Race launches with the the playing of the national anthem playing in the background.

Within 30 minutes, the sky is covered with beautiful balloons.
I can't say I quite understand the rules of the race, but it was an awesome sight nevertheless!

I will be out of town next week. Hopefully, I shall return with more photos to share. Have a good week!

- Karen

Remembering September 11th

2011-09-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

Remembering September 11th on this 10th anniversary.
These are local memorials paying tribute to those passengers who lost their lives on United Flight 93 on their way to San Francisco back in 2001.

- Karen

Modern Farm

2011-09-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

This farm is either hip or has a sense of humor.
Its scarecrow sure looks like Justin Bieber.

I do not keep up-to-date with the latest teenage heartthrobs nor am I a fan of Bieber's.
I wonder if the image is meant to attract teenagers to visit the farm or to scare away the birds?

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

View other Wordless Wednesday posts here.

- Karen

Calliope

2011-09-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of a calliope?
Well, I hadn't until I did research for this post. You might have heard of the steam organ which is another name for it.
In the olden days, steam was sent through the pipes to produce the sounds like a train whistle according to Wikipedia.
This calliope playing at a festival yesterday projected its loud happy music throughout the park.

What does it sound like? Click here* to find out.
Think of a carnival, parade, circus, or an amusement park. I am sure you can think of other places you might have heard this kind of music.

After almost 2 weeks of not blogging due to an extremely busy schedule, I am back, but only temporarily until I'm out of town later next week. I will attempt to catch up on everyone's blog soon! Thank you for returning to read my posts.

*"Margie" performed by Jon Tschiggfrie. Music was found on Wikipedia.

- Karen

Guests in the Garden

2011-08-27T20:12:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I revisited the local butterfly garden which were absent of butterflies at the time.
However, the hummingbirds and the mosquitoes did move in.
The hummingbirds are welcome anytime, but I was not fond of the mosquito tenants who had no problem of making me part of their lunch.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants here.

- Karen

Go Fishing Like An Egret

2011-08-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

Stay still and look. Be patient.
If you see a fish swim by, grab it quickly!
You must not hesitate! It is all in the beak.

Soon, you will be rewarded with a fish.

To maneuver the fish so you can swallow it, twist your head back and forth while manipulating the fish with your beak until it is in the perfect vertical position.

This manipulation might take many tries. It is especially difficult if your fish fights back.
I almost had it vertically here.

Gulp!
Alas, I am successful and the fish is in me now.
This fishing is hard work. I am already hungry again!

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Wordless Wednesday.
Visit other participants here.

- Karen

Close Encounters

2011-08-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, the missing butterfly whom I was seeking a few weeks back in the park's butterfly garden.
Although this adventurous butterfly has wandered far from its garden home. Clinging desperately to this flower as hurricane-force winds blow and tossing it back and forth like a kite. Luckily for me, it was just a mild breeze.
It will have quite a survivor's story to tell when it returns home.

A lizard watches with panic to see what giant has interrupted its morning sunning ritual.
I look back in panic to see what small creature had moved amongst the rocks and interrupted my morning hike.
We eye each other cautiously before we both scurry away in fear.

A dragonfly thinks he is camouflaged against the colorful ground.
He doesn't move and glares at me angrily. All its tiny hairs stand erect readying for the attack.
I show him my big camera lens pretending it is a futuristic secret weapon.
He flies away in supersonic speeds to battle someone else his own size.

- Karen

Tight Squeeze

2011-08-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

I think the person who lives in that narrow green house should only have to pay a quarter of the rent.
I wonder if the occupant feels claustrophobic sometimes.
How did the furniture fit through the door?

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants here.

- Karen

Look!

2011-08-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we just need a simple reminder to look both ways before crossing the street.
Although I'm not sure it will help those whose eyes are glued to their phones. We used to put phones by our ears, but now they are mostly used with our eyes.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!
Visit other participants here.

- Karen

Views from the Bench

2011-07-31T20:00:00.000-07:00

Locals had positive reviews of the Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont, CA so I decided to see for myself.
This is the same park with the butterfly garden I posted previously.
One can see San Francisco Bay and the golden-colored algae ( I believe) that make up the salt ponds in the area.

From what I read, back in 1901, the California Salt Company built salt ponds in the area for salt production and by 1917, there was 6,000 acres of the stuff.
When I fly into San Francisco International Airport, I can see these ponds clearly overhead, but I have never seen these up close until now.

- Karen

Are You a Butterfly?

2011-07-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Are you a butterfly in my garden?
No, I am a Scrub-Jay bird resting on a butterfly bench.

Are you butterfly?
No, I am a patient Hummingbird resting inside a butterfly garden.

You have no wings, you are definitely not a butterfly.
I know, but I do like flowers like a butterfly.

Have a nice weekend!

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants here.

- Karen

On the Edge

2011-07-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

If you suffer from acrophobia (afraid of heights), do not go onto the roof of this building.

I keep looking for a railing to hang onto, but there isn't one!

- Karen

Apricot Farm

2011-07-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

I had a chance to tour a local apricot farm a few weeks ago that I didn't even know existed if someone did not tell me.
Well, the farm has been there for almost 60 years. Shows how much I know.
During apricot season, only 3 weeks long, volunteers were seen here cutting and pitting the fruit to get it ready for drying.
Yes, there is a high demand for dried apricot. In fact, my friend, commented to me that they are sold out so fast each year that she had to put in her order in advance.

After adding sugar and sulfur to the cut apricots, they are then cooked for 4-5 hours. Here are some that are just done.
See the tracks at the bottom.

Kelly, in the white t-shirt, is the owner of the Silva Ranch which he took over from his parents.
The tracks make it easier for workers to bring the apricots to the cooker and then roll them back down for the drying process.

Each tray is then carried from the tracks.

And, placed in the open air for drying for 4 to 5 days.
No, I didn't order any dried apricots, but I did buy some fresh ones and they were delicious!

Have a nice weekend!

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

A peek into a doctor's office.
Visit other Wordless Wednesday posts here.

- Karen

Packed In

2011-07-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

An urban hike onto the hills of San Francisco, one can see how packed the houses are in the city.
Each one is unique in color, shape, or decorations.
Your neighbors can hear you and you can hear your neighbors.
That is life in the big city.

- Karen

Welcome Home

2011-07-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

I was walking in San Francisco last weekend and came across this beautiful brick mansion with a nice garden.

I don't know who lives here.
If you live here, please welcome me in so I can have a look inside.

Have a nice weekend,
Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

Long Distance Conversations

To visit other Wordless Wednesday posts, click here.

- Karen

Big Dog Vineyards

2011-07-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, the Milpitas Historical Society organized a tour to a family winery way up on the hills of the city. For non-locals, this is approximately 50 miles south of San Francisco.
Upon driving up, you can see its vineyards growing on the hillside.
I believe the owners live in this house and the wine business is just their "hobby" as they have regular full-time jobs.

The vineyard is called the Big Dog Vineyards and appropriately with a dog weather vane on top of their garage with the weather vane at the very top.
I asked about their dog who seemed to be in many of their pictures on their website, but unfortunately, was told Cab, their big beloved St. Bernard, passed away only a few days ago before my visit.

The front view of the beautiful garage area with the weather vane way on top.

A beautiful display of their wines.
They offer wine tasting on the first weekend of each month from April through September.

This is the breathtaking view from the winery.

- Karen

Sitting Around

2011-07-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

Rarely do I see round benches, but within two weeks I spotted two different styles at two different locations.
This one appears a bit neglected wrapped underneath a tree. I wonder how they got it around the tree trunk.

These are located at the local train station. A little deserted on the weekend and they don't look very comfortable. Hopefully, the train doesn't come late very often.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone who celebrated the 4th of July had a great time!
It's Wordless Wednesday again!
To view or participate, click here.

- Karen

Smiley

2011-07-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

I think I would like one of these statues by my house so every time I leave the house, I remember to smile.
Or, cheer up passers-by if they had a bad day.

With a light post, I can even remember to smile at night.

Have a great 4th of July holiday to everyone who celebrates it!

- Karen

Dumpster Diving

2011-07-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

I walked by this trash can and heard a loud rustling noise emanating from the INSIDE.
It startled me momentarily because no one was around. Then I thought, it must have been my imagination until I looked back and saw the squirrel.

He must have been dumpster diving inside and was startled by the rustling noise coming from the OUTSIDE of the trash can and came out to investigate.
It took no time at all before he wandered back inside.
He probably noticed I was just a harmless photographer.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!
To view other Wordless Wednesday posts or participate yourself, click here.

- Karen

Cardboard House

2011-06-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

This dollhouse(or more like an apartment building) and its interior contents are all created with cardboard. If you were a cardboard character, would you live here?

Take a peek inside one of the rooms. This could be your neighbor.

Click on the last two photos to read more about this fantasy Cardboard House.

- Karen

Hummingbirds Mealtime Antics

2011-06-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

Last week I did a post on these hummingbird babies and I am happy to report they are doing just fine as of Thursday morning despite the heatwave.
In fact, they are getting bigger and with more feathers.

When I first arrived on Thursday, the momma bird fed the baby on the inside of the nest first and then flew away.
I wished I could have gotten a better view, but there were at least 8 photographers to the right of me now.

After the feeding session, the baby who didn't get fed yet kept craning his neck to look for momma and his meal while the full-bellied baby went back to sleep.

Soon after, the momma came back with more food. Now both were fed and the world was right again, at least for this little one.
Their flying days are approaching. Soon they will soar into adulthood and this nature story will have its happy ending.

- Karen

Follow Up: The Fine Art of Yarn Bombing

2011-06-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, I did a post about yarn bombing when I saw it for the first time at a local street fair. Lo and behold, this pastime has made national news in Time Magazine.

You can see more worldwide yarn bombing artistry on the Time.com website.
Here are a few pictures from the same link.

Copenhagen, Denmark.
Photo by MARIANNE JØRGENSEN.

Mexico City, Mexico.
Photo by CESAR ORTEGA.

Paris, France.
Photo by MICHEL JEAN SICOT.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!
To view other Wordless Wednesday posts or participate yourself, click here.

- Karen

Hummingbird Discovery

2011-06-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Another hummingbird nest has been uncovered. This time not in my backyard, but at a local nature preserve.
The mother hummingbird seen here is feeding her two babies approximately 4-5 days old.

The momma comes back every so often to feed her growing chicks. They looked quite hungry with their mouths opened and pointing skyward awaiting for her return.

Unfortunately, the nest is exposed to the elements so the momma perches in such a way to block out the rising sun as she feeds her babies.

Momma continues to provide shade.
Quite a few people have come to observe this fascinating nature story, but we are worried the upcoming heatwave will be detrimental.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Wordless Wednesday again!
See other WW participants here.

- Karen

Mystery Lounge

2011-06-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

I attended an Instagram-themed photo walk this past Saturday co-hosted by objectivescenes.com and Photojojo.com.
Photojojo let participants borrow their macro, fisheye, and telephoto smartphone camera lenses during the walk through San Francisco's Chinatown.
It was liberating not having to carry my heavy digital camera around for once.

I opted for the fisheye lens and took a picture of this old Chinatown bar, the Li Po Lounge. I am curious what is beyond those mysterious red doors.

If you are not familiar with Instagram, it is an iPhone photo sharing application.
If you use Instagram, feel free to Follow me at "avcr8teur" and I'll do the same for you.

- Karen

Happy International Yarn Bombing Day

2011-06-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

If you knit, you are probably aware that June 11th is International Yarn Bombing Day.
I have not heard of this pastime until a week ago at a street festival.

From what I read, it is a way of displaying your yarn artwork publicly on tree trunks, light poles, or wherever your imagination takes you.
You can read about yarn bombing here.

With everything done manually, it takes awhile to "tie" it down securely.

More examples of yarn bombing.
There is a debate of whether this is legal. What do you think?
Some consider it a form of graffiti.
I like it. I think it adds color and fun to bland looking objects.

Here is a yarn bomber at work during last weekend's street festival.

Let me know if you see any such artwork in your area.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!
Visit other participants here.

- Karen

Artcar

2011-06-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Does it drive or swim?
Is it a car or art?
It is street-legal but it doesn't go into the water despite having scales and fins.

It looks content being the center of attention.

It took 3 years for the artist to create this piece of traveling art.
Apparently, there is a whole community of artists who have converted their cars to works of art. Read here.
Is your vehicle ready for a makeover?

Click on the photo to enlarge it to read about the car's background.

- Karen

Juicy

2011-06-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

How to eat a cherry, Squirrel-style.
1. Steal the fruit from my tree,
2. Project its tongue outward to exam the fruit's quality.

3. Sink its teeth into the juicy fruit,
4. Leave the pit behind for me to clean up.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants here or better yet, join in.

- Karen

Carnaval Parade

2011-05-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

A few sample photos from the 15th annual Carnaval Parade in San Francisco over the weekend. After waiting for many years, I finally had to opportunity to attend for the first time this year.
Over 70 groups participated in this diverse and colorful cultural event filled with music and dance.

Hundreds of women in skimpy costumes paraded by making it look like a nice summer-like day.
If the truth be told, participants on the sidelines, including me, complained about the cold weather. After standing for over 2 hours, my fingers and toes became numb from the bone-chilling breeze.
At that point, I wished I was at home in a warm bed.

Yes, there were men in the parade like these in equally colorful costumes.

In all the pictures, you might have noticed people in the background standing on the outside ledge of their 2nd story window. I don't think I would stand there or just below them.

- Karen

The Vault

2011-05-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Where am I?
It looks a little like a prison or a reminder of a horror movie.
A long, deserted, and dimly-lit corridor.

Is this a cell or fortress to keep one in?

It is San Francisco's Old Mint which opened in 1854 to turn gold into coins. In less than 20 years, its operations outgrew the building and it moved into another location a few miles away.
To date, there are only three United States Mint buildings. One in Philadelphia, another in Denver, and the "new" Mint in San Francisco.

On this day, the Old Mint was open to the public and I heard eventually turned into a museum. The 2nd photo was actually a vault where the gold or coins were stored, but today like all the other vaults in the corridor, stand empty.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants here.

- Karen

Pet Parade

2011-05-23T16:00:00.000-07:00

Attended the 10th Annual Redwood City Pet Parade this past weekend and saw a variety of costumed dogs. Like this little one dyed in pink.

And, this one in green.

Even this angel with or without the halo.

Busy pugs engaged in a sniffing frenzy.

I can't quite figure out what this getup is suppose to be.

Of course, a parade isn't complete without chickens. Surprisingly, no drooling dogs were following this float.

"Klepto the Cat" was the parade's grand marshal. Klepto made it onto the local news recently and even onto Animal Planet TV when he was unmasked as the cat burglar who foraged into neighbor's yards on a nightly basis to steal their belongings.
See Klepto in action on this video http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/video?id=7997043

Side Note: Thank you for coming back to read my blog. It has been a busy May and I took a longer break than anticipated.

- Karen

Seeing Double

2011-05-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

Taken with my cell phone, I moved as the shutter was closing and I got this interesting result, a ghost image of each of the goose and all looking in the same direction.

I will be off for a few days and look forward to reading your posts when I return.

- Karen

Is He Real?

2011-05-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back, I visited the Cantor Arts Center on the Stanford University campus. Inside the museum, I spotted this motionless man in the distance.
I thought he must be very tired or talking on his cell phone although I heard no sound uttered in his direction.

After I few minutes, I slowly approached him from the side for a closer look.
Is he real?

No, "David" is not a living, breathing human being, but he is a realistic life-size sculpture called "Slab Man" by Duane Hanson.
I wonder if the museum has a camera trained on "David" to get a good laugh of all those who come about cautiously.

Click on this photo to read the placard on the wall that is next to the sculpture.

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Check out other Wordless Wednesday participants here.

- Karen

Skywatch Friday - Royal Blue

2011-04-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Since I did not get an invitation to today's royal wedding, how about a photo of a royal blue sky?
Okay, it is not exactly royal blue nor this a real palace, but they are the closest thing.

Enjoy other Skywatch Friday photos!

- Karen

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants here.

- Karen

Cantor Arts Center Lobby

2011-04-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

Visited the Cantor Arts Center Museum at Stanford University for the first time the other day. It has been in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1894 so I should not procrastinate any longer.
The marble-ladened lobby is beautifully adorned with Greek goddess Athena statue and a 2-sided staircase. And, if you look straight up, you will see its dome.
The museum was badly damaged in the 1906 and 1989 earthquakes, but it has been restored and even expanded with an additional 36,000 square-foot wing.

- Karen

Skywatch Friday - Afternoon Hike

2011-04-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

That's my hiking group out there.
Some of us had to form a second group because we were too slow trying to photograph all the scenery along the way.

Join in on Skywatch Friday.

- Karen