Running with* a friend
* while 6ft apart

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​21-22 March 2020
Washington, USA

15k P.R. attempt and Sunday long run

Shout-out to my quaranteammate, Somer MF Kreisman for continuing to show-up on our Sunday long runs, occasionally at my races and other indomitable feats of strength and speed, but mostly for being there at ridiculous hours on the social and text machines.

​Running and racing and certainly time-trialing are usually self-serving affairs, but when you can share it with someone else, a little bit of the selfish feeling starts to fade. Sort of. Kind of. But for real for real, I do it so that I can continue to smash those Taco Time burritos and mexi-fries and jars of pomegranate kombucha.

​Here are some of the better photos from a weekend spent chasing down a 15k p.r. and chasing behind the world’s greatest running bud. Check her out on Insta (@somerrunner) – she’s getting really good at the ukulele!! And at her photography website, where she’s already a GD MASTER! (somerphoto.com). Apprciate you, fam. 🙇‍♂️👊✌
photos courtesy of Somer Kreisman, obvi. somerphoto.com.
Other rambling thoughts on running and team dynamics.
​
Running is an autonomous  pursuit. And it’s precisely why I got into it competitively as a ~fearless sixteen year-old. No need to depend on your point guard to pass you the ball as you make a perfect backdoor cut to the basket or expecting that clean-up hitter to take a 1-0 fastball down the middle so you can attempt to steal second base. In running, you run as fast as you can over an agreed upon distance (and route for anything not on a track) and your time is basically your worth. The faster you are the more successful you are. 100% based on the objective performance of you, the runner. Simple.  

It wasn’t until well into my adult years that I figured out how much of a team sport running can be. Team workouts: Okay, I’ve been doing those since I started running. The energy of a team workout can be extremely positive and also incredibly nerve-wracking. Team competitions: adding up individual results to create a team score to compete against other teams. Sure there are those mini-battles that happen within a cross country race to try to outplace someone from a rival team to improve the team’s score; I guess that's an example. In the running or track & field universe, I look back to my first year on the track team for my best example of team competition.

Nothing can replace this memory I have from the 2002 Outdoor Track season – a tri-meet in Mays Landing, NJ. Vineland vs. Absegami vs. Oakcrest. We (Vineland) had already beaten Oakcrest by a small margin, but the outcome against Absegami held in the balance of the last event still running – the high jump. Anyone still left hanging around the Falcons’ blue track migrated to the high jump pit to cheer on the four of us still in the competition.

The bar was now at 5’-10”. The teams were separated by 8 points. In a 10, 6, 4, 3, 2, 1 scoring system, we needed first (10 points) *AND* second (6 points) to win (a 9-point swing). Anything less would result in a loss – first (10) and third (4), for example, would leave us 3 points short (14 to 9 in the high jump) #mathsyo .

Anyway, back to the jumping…I stepped up to my mark on the right side of the apron and nervously rocked back and forth on my front, left foot and back, right foot a few times. Someone summoned the crowd to start clapping, because all of the sudden I noticed an audience – great, more pressure.

Somehow I found the courage to break that rocking cycle and sprinted towards the bar. I rounded toward the pit, increased my turnover the last few steps and sprung off of my left foot. I must have drawn the last bit of hype from the ~crowd to arch my back just enough and snap my legs up and over that bar to clear it and secure a top 3 finish and at least 4 points for the team.
​
Absegami had one of their top two jumpers left. One cleared 5’-8” and the other didn’t. Their final jumper, alas, did not get over 5’-10”. My teammate John Praul and I went to attempt 6’-0”. John got over and won the competition – 10 points. I didn’t, though still got us a second and the 6 more points we needed as a team! On the morning announcements the next day Principal Ottinger (R.I.P. Chalky) came on the p.a. to do the recap of the previous day’s sporting events. He gave John and I a special shout out for helping the track team wrap-up the sweep of the tri-meet. Hell yeah!

Celebrating the season and toasting to another year in the books

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2 thru 9 July 2019
Washington, USA

~One week, eight days, *100% LOVE!*

Prompted by a text at the end of June alerting me that my birthday was fast approaching, I put on my party planner pantaloons and began alerting friends of ideas to get together. Sure it was the week leading up to my birthday. This is the summer, after all, and I'm more than happy to use my d.o.b. as an excuse to connect with my pals, my fam, my actual fam, and everyone in-between! Below are some snaps from the early summer shenanigans. If you weren't able to catch-up with me during this week, I hope our paths cross again sooner rather than later! <3

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2nd Annual Autumnal Equinox Celebration: The Thawing Out Continues...

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26 September 2017
Beacon Hill, Seattle, USA

Here we go again: it’s time for fall, y’all!

This year's celebration once again included an abundance of deliciously savory food (links to recipes, below), cheap and potentially toxic grocery store libations, *AND* fabulous prizes!! By popular demand, the DJI drone made an appearance and was on offer for flying and for spectacularly crashing it into things (we did both). Before the evening was through, we got the fire going to keep things warm, to infuse a bit of ambiance into the backyard space, and, mostly, to revel in this delightfully crisp evening in early fall. The 2nd Annual Autumn Equinox Celebration was, by all accounts, a smashing success.

Thanks to those who attended and to those who sent their warm thoughts in wishing us a fun time. To the few who could not make it this year, that’s totally okay and will certainly not impact your future invite. <3
This year’s award winners are as follow:
  • First to RSVP: Alison Markette & Scott Macha (DNS)
  • First to PROPERLY RSVP (via the email that was ON THE INVITE PEOPLE!): Trisha Steidl & Uli Steidl
  • First to arrive at the par-TAY: Rufus Barden Park
  • Most hilarious comments and reactions on the FB Messenger Thread: Rizo Robert
  • Best-dressed: Rosie Z., floral dress, moccasins, stetson.
  • Best use of pumpkin spice in a dish: Alex McCarthy and Kayne McCarthy, Chocolate Pumpkin Bread
  • King of Fire & Last guest to leave: Vazul​
Try these recipes on your own!

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Turkey Day wknd in The 'Ham

23 thru 26 November 2017
Bellingham, WA USA
Four days and three nights in the northwest of the northwest. Bellingham, Washington was a maaavelous place to spend the Thanksgiving holiday.
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Tl;dr
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Thanksgiving 2017. I took the newer electric vehicle, my running shoes, and some roasted veggies up north for a holiday weekend in B’ham. I ran a lot. I ate a lot. I ran some more. I “Brotha’ Duded” x2. And I spent the holiday as a gracious guest at a lovely lake house on the North Shore of Lake Whatcom. The fun continues below...
Okay. Back to the action...

​After some brief, internal deliberation, I decided that I would be spending the Thanksgiving holiday somewhere in the wild world of the Pacific Northwest. The next step was to determine *WHERE* in this wild world, exactly? Would I quickly try to put together a paper invite and mail it out to some of the Autumn Party peeps to host my own gathering? Nerp, not enough time for that. Okay, how about just getting the message out via the facepage? Nah. That never works. My FB correspondi usually go straight into peoples’ recycle bin. Okay, time to start checking in with anyone who owes me money, or food, or cat-sitting services to see if I can crash their T-day dinner party.

​Before I could even draft the first sentence in my, “You might recall that time you asked me for a favor…” group message, my mobile phone buzzed with a text from a relatively new friend. The SMS read, “Do you have plans for thanksgiving?” Having been “burned” before by such leading questions, I reserved my excitement. Although, knowing this source, I was about 95% sure this was a genuine inquiry that could lead to an actual invitation! I replied saying that I did not have any specific plans other than wanting to stay around Seattle as a host or as a very humble and gracious guest at someone else’s Thanksgiving gathering. Shortly after sending that, I was invited to join the friend and her family in Bellingham, Washington -- the crown jewel of W*H*atcom County!

​Now I all had to do was get my affairs in order: reconnect with my former hosts in Fairhaven to see if they had space at their pad for a three night’s stay. Check. Manage the delivery of my latest i3 from California so that I could ensure transportation up to B’ham. Arrange for cat-sitters to watch the diva kity. Check, check. Okay, time to set the answering machine. Let’s do this!
Day one. Thursday 23 November 2017. Thanksgiving Day.
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An early morning drive up to Cornwall Park in North Bell for a Turkey Trot. The “2017 Thanksgiving Day Cross Country World Championships IX.” This event would serve to be my first ever Turkey Trot. As previously mentioned somewhere on this space, I am typically injured and/or burnt out by a September and October of running and racing that by the third week of November I am not up for a fast-ish competition and certainly not a “fun run” that starts in the wee hours in the morning of a holiday.

Well, the event went off without a hitch -- a few casual laps of the cross country course among the Bellingham running elite and sub-elite and I was off the mark for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend! On to Robin’s and Robert’s pad in Fairhaven for a shower, then over to meet-up with the North Shore Thanksgiving dinner gang.
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Just about as soon as I stepped out of my vehicle I could hear Forest barking, excited to greet a new guest. My Seattle Running Club pals, also purportedly eagerly awaiting my arrival, Trisha & Uli welcomed me to the party and offered a round of introductions to the hosts. It was a warm welcome, indeed. I mean, literally, the sun finally decided to show itself and the temperature in the house was nearing a balmy 80°F from the sun and all of the activity going on in the kitchen. Thanksgiving dinner treats were warming in the oven!

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​Roasted Brussels sprouts and yellow squash

[link to recipe]

We gathered at the table and shared our collective thoughts on what we have been thankful for over the past year. And then we feasted!
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​The dishes for dinner and dessert were absolutely Deeelectable! Deeelightful! Deeelicious! (:

Phew, that was quite a long day that started in the wee hours for the commute from Seatown. I was off to bed to catch some zzzs so that I could wake bright and early on Black Friday for a trail run with the king of the drumstick, the carnivorous Mr. Ulrich Steidl.

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Friday 24 November 2017. Black Friday.

  • Early morning trail run from North Whatcom Lake Park w/ Uli up to near the summit of Stewart Mountain. [link to route]
  • Low-key afternoon back at the bNb. Ordered delivery from Brotha’ DUDES! Dudes Blunt was bomb!
  • Evening roll to the community co-op to charge the EV then a stroll into DT B’ham.
  • Stopped at *bucks for a li’l bit, then over to the Mount Baker Theater for a very interpretive performance of the Nutcracker.
    • Side, personal note: Do not mess with my Nutcracker! Seriously, what the hell was that twist you put on the Dance of the Sugar Plum fairy?!? Thankfully there was somewhat of a mea culpa at the end when the principal dancers did their own thing to the actual music. Also, I should have been more skeptical about the $22 cost of admission and G.A. seating. These parents are out of control.
Saturday 25 November 2017. Supah chill Saturday.
I got up at a reasonable hour to setup over on the Interurban trail for a Saturday tempo workout. Did the workout along the relatively flat portion between Arroyo Park and Chuckanut Crest? California Dr? [link to workout]

  • With no priorities scheduled for the day, I figured I’d recharge a bit at the bNb before making my way into town for a bite and to see what other trouble I could get into.
  • Had dinner at the Bellingham Bar and Grille for some well deserved comfort food -- a garden burger and side of extra crispy onion rings. Nomnomnomnom.
  • I watched in amusement as the Huskies dominated the Cougs. Bah. Too bad. No one actually won, well, other than the NCAA fat cats and Fox television and the advertisers, I suppose.
  • Decided against going to the show at the Wild Buffalo headlined by a band called Thunderpussy. Dang. I really wanted to check them out, but by the time they were scheduled on stage -- 11:30pm -- I would have been well on my way to dreamland.
  • Instead, I thought I’d satisfy my sweet tooth and yelp’d over to a dessert shoppe called Pure Bliss Desserts. Here I found some spicy peppermint tea, someone to compliment my choice of shoes, and a healthy slice of carrot cake. FYI, healthy meaning “large” in this instance. Though I suppose it was a healthier (meaning “more nutritious”) choice than the pumpkin pie cheesecake I considered? Carrots + cake > pumpkins + cheese + cake, yeah?

Sunday 26 November 2017. Sunday get soaked day.
  • I slept in ‘til about 9, packed the E.V., then headed for the Oyster Dome Trailhead down in Samish. When I checked the forecast, there was about an hour window in the morning where the rain might let up. Unfortunately, that hour had already passed and, thus, I was destined for a wet run out in the wilderness.
  • Sunday (long) run day:
    • I parked on the west side of Chuckanut Dr., scurried across the busy road, and began my ascent up the trail. Oh. Wow. That’s quite the incline. As I shuffled along the trail, I had an internal debate on how much suffering I was interested in on this day.
    • My initial plan was to do the long route out to Lizzard Lake, then back around to climb up to Oyster Dome, and finally a descent via the Samish Bay trail. All I needed was a scant 13k to reach 100k for the week, though Sundays are for the long stuff and anything less than 16.09344k on a Sunday sounds WEAK! Oh well, let’s just get moving and reassess somewhere along the way. Thankfully the coniferous forest did a decent job in keeping me somewhat protected. However, when I finally made it to the Oyster Dome -- about 80mins later and 7k from the start -- the forest opened up and there was very little protection from the elements. This was perturbing. Bah. Whatevs. I did the thing. Kudos to me for the effort. I navigated successfully to this point, made just about all of the correct turns, and did not turn, or twist, or tw…, wait, okay, tweaked my ankle once! No worries. Got out fairly unscathed and in under two hours for the 14.5k effort in the sloppy and soggy conditions. [link to workout] I quickly changed into somewhat dryer clothes and began my departure back to the Rain City for some lunch, then a shower, then a long nap to cap off a successful holiday weekend. Good work team!!

....just give me moments... 🙏

Summer Camp for Adults:
A Rahh, Rahh, Rahh-eally Cool Idea

PictureCampers on the Last Day of Camp, Port Orchard, WA USA (photo courtesy of Mayuri Reddy, Facebook)
24 thru 27 August 2017
Seattle & Port Orchard, WA USA

The dog days of summer were taking their toll. I needed a breath of fresh air from all of that dang smoke, an escape from my mundane work week, and a compelling reason to flip my weekly rituals completely upside down. Camp Rahh, "Seattle's First Adult Summer Camp," offered all of that and a whole lot more. For four days and three nights, I socialized, partied, danced, yoga'ed, broke bread (without any actual bread), played, got super woke, stepped out of my comfort zone, and lived to my fullest potential with about 125 total and absolute strangers at a campground, on a lake, in the woods, and under the stars, (and without drugs OR alcohol) in Port Orchard, WA.

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Tl;dr, Camp Rahh is an experience of a lifetime. From the playful competitions, to the restorative and exciting mindfulness and adventuring activities, the amazingly delicious meals, all having been supported by a backbone of the most competent organizers and staffers, the memories and connections and friends I made during the four days and three nights spent at camp will have forever made me a more complete person. 

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PictureYellow school bus ride to camp!
​1ST DAY OF CAMP

We met on a pleasant Thursday afternoon in late August, just north of Red Square on the University of Washington campus. When I arrived at sometime shortly after 6pm, other people had already started to congregate -- "this must be a real thing," I thought to myself. After finding someone who looked "official" to check me in, the lovely Brittany Ann Thompson in this instance (hope you're feeling much better, Brittany), I began to settle in to the reality. "This is happening!" -- was another exclamation provided by my internal monologue. The next step was to surrender my phone, my watch, and my ability to have any "connection" with the outside world over the next few days. I was, in fact, stepping inside of a bubble.  


​As dramatic as that last part sounds, disconnecting from tech was something I was so looking forward to. Lately (before camp, anyway. I've been struggling to not check the last post in the Camp Rahh 2017 facepage group over the past week. Ha), I feel I have set good boundaries around checking in to social media; I have developed good tools to fight any urge to reach for my device to share a feeling that is best left not shared; and I know I have long been able to resist the temptation to post pics of a meal when it arrives in front of me at a restaurant -- looking at you fellow millennials. The Strava app, however, has got me IN THE GRIP!! There's no escaping the high I feel, after the runner's high, from sharing my new segment Course Record!! Ah! ROFLcopter! Any-hoo, knowing that I could not be bothered by someone texting me with some random request sounded like a vacation unto itself.
PictureApproaching the Tacoma Narrows strait in our school bus!
Camp officially started when we boarded the yellow school buses and our caravan departed for the peninsula. Bus assignments were handed out randomly. As luck would have it, I was sat right behind the radiant Kelly Kube: first-time camper, and camp yoga instructor. In her words, Kelly was brightly "lit up" for this entire experience. Her light, as a matter of fact, was ebullient -- we chatted a lot. Our conversation centered around our expectations of the camp experience and how we were opening our hearts and minds to what we were about to embark on. I am ever so grateful for the opportunity I had to share the bus ride to camp with her and the other riders of bus number 2. Shout out to BUS 2! WOOT! Thanks for making the start of camp a memorable one! And thanks for indulging me as I attempted to share with you my snacks!

Arrival to camp happened sometime in the middle of the evening -- having no watch meant that based on the waning daylight I could only guess the time was approaching 9pm. We quickly unloaded, then went straight for orientation (in our PJs!) and for some ice breakers. Before camp I was assigned to TEAM RED (holla atchya, team red!) It was now time to first gather as a team. We hung out in the middle of the field to play a game of extreme Rock-Paper-Scissors.
​And guess who won?! Mmmhmm, you guessed it. I had the whole team chanting my name already (the most popular first name at camp, btw) and we had only been together for half an hour!! "Okay. This is too much," I chuckled to myself. I crave adulation and all that, but sometimes the spotlight can be a bit too bright, nah mean?
PictureTHE ICEBERG!!!
COMPETITION

​The outcome of this silly ice breaker set the tone for me for the rest of the camp. As was the plan long ago determined by the cosmos, I was destined to succeed, and thrive, and compete to my fullest throughout the camp's entirety. I felt much more comfortable in this environment in  CHASING THE GLORY, if you will, than any other time in recent memory.
Other camp competition feathers in my cap: mastering of the Oreo cookie facial muscles activity; hitting the bull's-eye, on cue, at the archery zone; multiple, successful summit attempts of the Iceberg (see insert), a victorious game of 8-ball in the pool hall; and, of course, who could forget my running around the Capture the Flag field, in my split shorts and red warrior paint, and capturing that first flag of camp for TEAM RED!!! WOOT WOOT!
Ah. Competition. There was a certain beauty to experiencing the rush of adrenaline while achieving an athletic feat, the high I felt when free-falling among the trees at the camp's ropes course, and the absolute exaltation of being in the crowd when I heard the words, "and the winner of the award for best costume goes to...Cheryl!!!!" Oh my, that was amazing. Awesome work on your scuba costume, Cheryl! <3
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Horseshoe Lake in Port Orchard, WA USA
MINDFULNESS

As competitive as camp was, it was also perfectly balanced with moments for reflection, for meditation, and for awakening. ("Hold on, don't get woke without me!!" -- Camp Legend Steve MacKinnon) Seizing the opportunity provided by mindfulness instructors Gemma and Matt, to wake up, next to the lake, and interact with the other members of the awakening workshop will be a cherished memory of the Camp Rahh experience. Highlights from the three days of this activity were the eye-gazing exercise, the OK Cupid-like question game atop the rope, and, most importantly, the tension and discomfort we all felt when discussing and debating some of the challenging issues of our time. Well done, campers, in keeping your hearts and minds open to this unique experience.

On the topic of unique experiences, the daily yoga sessions led by Kelly were as exceedingly technical as they were refreshingly new for this novice yogi. As much as the awakening workshops and team competitions pushed me to the edge of my intellect, the morning yoga workshops twisted me towards the boundary of my flexibility threshold. When conducted back-to-back, the awakening workshop and the morning yoga were the best ways to begin my day. Thank you mindfulness team for sharing your wisdom with me and the rest of the campers.
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Looking Across Henderson Bay, Pierce County, WA USA
FOOD

​Needless to say, one could certainly build up an appetite after engaging in so many energy-draining activities. Thankfully, the camp kitchen was expertly appointed by Brian O’Connor and his crack team. The (four-course) meals we enjoyed each day for lunch AND dinner were ORGASMIC! Ugh. So satisfying and flavorful. If you know me, you know that I am very methodical about the speed at which I eat and also my low, low, low on the food chain plant-based diet. I don’t count calories (anymore), though I rarely overeat or indulge in the practice of in-between meals. Although, I suppose I do make exceptions every now and again and, you know, this camp was all about breaking traditions, and all that jazz.
On night two, all of the campers were invited to participate in a phenomenon known as Silent Disco. The DJs were arranged as channels dedicated to an eclectic mix of electronic dance music (red), contemporary beats across a broad spectrum of styles (blue), and one final channel curated in the vein of r&b, soul, hip hop, and rap  music (green). This event started at around 11 in the evening (again, no watch, so this was a complete guess). Wouldn’t ya know, that after a few hours after dancing like no one was watching – or listening, I started to develop a bit of an appetite for a late night snack? I noticed some other dancers were migrating towards the kitchen. And then I heard a report back that chef Brian and team had whipped up some Vietnamese Pho for the campers to snack on in-betwixt their dancing and moovin’ and groovin’. Wow, what a surprise! And in a typical Camp Rahh don’t-think-twice-before-jumping-in-with-two-feet attitude, I bolted toward the savory aromas of the spicy soup, filled my bowl, and said “so long” to my “never after 10pm” eating habit. The time was likely darn close to 2am and I was feelin’ fine!
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Silent Disco from Camp Rahh 2016 (courtesy, do206.com)
PictureHorseshoe Lake at Sunrise, Port Orchard, WA USA
MUSIC​

I spent a couple more hours shaking it out on the grassy dance “floor” and lying on the tarp beneath the sparkling constellations, then finally decided to call it a night. The Silent Disco was but one of a handful of musical treats on offer during the camp. Other musicians who graced us with their presence included the baritone and synth-laden vocals from Otieno Terry on the basketball court (that Lake Washington Blvd. station is the business) and a very unique and evocative lakeside, electronic set from multi-instrumentalist Saint Claire (love, love, loved the electronic violin). At the Chapel in the Cedars, we were entertained to sets from the delightfully doo-woppy/poppy melody from the voice of ParisAlexa, and, of course, a personal favorite -- and connection (we go way back. ha) Naomi Wachira. Her performance was absolutely magical.

When Naomi’s set continued past the 10 o’clock hour on Friday evening, the Camp organizers were required to unplug the speakers and microphone. No biggie. Naomi nailed the transition to finish out her set acoustically. Boom. So professional and so, so beautiful. Music around a campfire: is there anything better? No, the answer is “no.” There is absolutely nothing better than soulful and spiritual acoustic guitar music, in a forest, under the stars, and around a campfire. This might have been the most memorable part of camp and a fine example of the camp’s organizer’s abilities to improvise.
PictureClosing ceremonies at the Chapel of the Cedars
STAFF ROCKSTARS

On day one of the camp, through the departure and trip back to Seattle, the staff exemplified all of the qualities of a cohesive and high-performing unit. I recently commented to Brian Oh (Camp Rahh founder) how impressed I was in his ability to staff the camp with such competent people, fit for their ideal roles. That is no mean feat. Delegating the numerous responsibilities of running this camp to the dozen or so people tasked with helping out must have been quite the logistical challenge. Brian and his team made it look like absolute child’s play.
PictureOne final snap w/ these lovely campers -- Cory, Nikki, Sarah C., Diana, and Brian K. (in the background).
And, ya know, isn’t that what this entire camp was suppose to be about? A Camp, for Adults, who were seeking to feel like children again? Well it was for this age-defying camper, anyway (read: age-ignoring/postponing/oblivious). My signature sign-off is usually “just give me moments.” Well, Camp Rahh, you have provided me with many, many, MANY moments. Thank you!

With love and cat cuddlez,

A-a ron, Team Red.

p.s. See ya at my par-TAY on the 23rd. 😜

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Camp Rahh [from their website] is an all inclusive adult summer camp in the pacific northwest where adults spend a 4 day weekend kayaking, horseback riding, rock-wall climbing, paint balling, dancing in the woods, watching live concert performances, eating 4 course meals and so much more all free from technology, drugs or alcohol. [Their] mission is to create a welcoming space and build community through shared experience without the distractions of everyday life. For more info, click here: camprahh.com

Shabbat-in' at the Gardens

The last sundown in June brought together a community of friendly faces, sumptuous salads, and a tasting of tangy tamarind pods. Golden Gardens Park, Seattle, USA 30 June 2017.
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Easter Holiday 2017: Philadelphia and phamily time.

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Felt the love all around me on this trip back home for the Easter holiday, 2017. 13 thru 17 April 2017. Philadelphia, Vineland, NJ, and Delaware, USA.

Break from the action to offer this DEVASTATING social commentary...

Dear Future:

My agoraphobia has been at an all-time peak, lately. I ask, nay, beg of you, please do what you can to limit the time I spend in brick and mortar stores. I lust for the day I can 100% guarantee that my life will be free of serendipitous interactions w/ people I know. You know, the type who is all too eager to suck the little time I have allocated for i.r.l. / a.f.k. shopping by deciding to share with you the story of their “totes epic hike, dude”, or “sick and gnarly mountain bike ride.” Or the woes about their Seattle home search, “oh my god, this market is just soo crayzeee!?!” Tweet me @rocheAM and maybe you’ll get a reply. And a snarky chain of emojis.

- rocheAM, 12 June 2017, 1035hrs

Autumnal Equinox Celebration 2016: The UN-freezening.

A(n) (possibly/likely/absolutely?) unhealthy obsession with autumn, materialized in proper dinner party format. We toasted to this season of change. We communicated our feelings about fall via our sartorial choices, by expressing our love of seasonal malt and fermented beverages, and by filling the, *ahem*, splendidly and thoughtfully decorated home that we warmed. OH! And we ATE! We ate so much food! Who wants leftovers?!? I have butternut squash soup coming out of my autumn-singed fingernails!

"You're not from around here, are you?"

PictureBastyr University, Kenmore, WA
Wednesday 3 February 2016. Enjoying the friendly hospitality of the staff at the BCNH.​
It is easy to assume that politeness would be guaranteed while interfacing with an institution dedicated to naturopathic medicine, the healing arts, spiritual, emotional, and physical health, and other modalities of healthcare promoting genuine well being. I have come to experience during my time in the Pacific Northwest however, that such authentic kindness should not be taken for granted. Today, I am happy to report that there is still hope yet for humanity, and that even in our contemporary society, if you ask for friendliness, you will receive friendliness.

I arrived early this morning at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health (BCNH) at 36th and Stone Way in Seattle's Wally World of Wallingford. The purpose for this visit was an unscheduled lab appointment. I sat quietly on the second floor in a dimly lit row of chairs between the Patient Care section and the general reception, and read about "healing plants" in SEEDS OF HOPE.

Across from me was a closed door. A sign that was hung on the door knob indicated "We will return at 8:30." At about 35 minutes past the hour, I knocked on the door and was anxiously greeted by the Phlebotomist. She exclaimed how the computer was not cooperating with her this morning and that she was having a bad case of the "dropsies."

The appointment went quickly. Shirley (the Phle-bot) found a very bloody vein and I was out in no time. We wished each other a good "humpday" and I wished for her, that for the rest of the day, the computer would cooperate and that she would not continue dropping things.

Following the drawing of bloods, I continued back down stairs and into the dispensary. I collected the monthly dose of prescribed supplements -- Power Mushrooms, Basic B Complex, Adrenal Support -- and headed to the checkout area. Here, I was met by a smiley-faced, sales associate whom I greeted with the typical "Hi! How are you?" I think she responded by saying, "fine, thanks. How are you?," but don't exactly recall.

When she was finished "ringging" me up, she offered the following remark, "You're not from around here, are you?" By correctly pointing out that I am not from around 'here,' I sheepishly assumed that she was referring to something she detected in my speech. Or perhaps it was another embarrassing characteristic of mine that I had hoped to hide well before moving to the PNW. Either way, I initially placed her comment into the 'negative' category.

After that quick, mental decathlon, my response to her question was "I'm from New Jersey." I said this with a half smile/half nervous grin. Then, as usual, I added a bit more detail, "well, I'm from South Jersey; closer to Philadelphia. Spent most of my adult life in Philadelphia, though. Why do you say that [I'm not from around here]?" still anxiously grinning, I countered.

She then explained, "It's because you asked how I'm doing." "Oh!" I replied, "I don't think it's a 'New Jersey thing.' It's probably because of the manners my parents taught me [yeah, yeah, that was it (; ], or just because I'm actually interested in how people are doing and that I like being asked myself!"

​At that moment, I felt equally relieved and flattered. The kind lady, also not from 'here,' but from Colorado, continued on. She has quite accurately recognized in her daily interactions with those from 'here,' that one is not typically asked about their genuine well being. I have my thoughts on why, but that's for another post, for another day, when I'm in another mood. For today, I'll be content with reeling off of the (usual) good vibes of my encounters at the BCNH, all while performing without any calories during my 12hrs of fasting.

Just give me moments…

Signed,

Smiley-faced bushy top.

Denver

Burritos, B-Cycle and Boulder Buddies, Blues-ish Bands, and Brilliant Skies in Broncos Country. (Spring Break 2016).

When faced with a completely open week in my calendar – a space created by the closing out of one cost estimating gig and the start of another, naturally, I got anxious. And, naturally, I began scouring the internets for airfare deals in search for the next adventure. Alaska Airlines (my go to since landing in the Pacific Northwest), had a silly deal for a roundtrip between Seattle and Denver, CO.

I had an interest in checking out the Mile High City at some point during my lifetime, but had never seriously put any effort into planning a trip there. Add the simplicity of finding super cheap rooms through the various bed-finding apps available in this technological age. A few clicks, and off I was on a ~week’s visit to the Rocky Mountain State.

Fast-forward five, fun-filled days of adventures and interactions with humans and nature and architecture and I can confidently say that Denver is well deserving of its number one ranking atop the list of best places to live in the U.S.

Below, I've categorized a few snaps from my visit. Enjoy!

Architecture

While criss-corssing through Denver's city blocks, I was struck by the impressive and admirable residential architecture. There were examples of High Victorian – Queen Anne, Beaux-Arts, Second Empire, Norman Tudor and other variations of Romanesque, Bungalow, City Beautiful, Spanish colonial and mission style. The civilized landscape here was, as the kids say, hitting all the feels.

Wilderness

Red Rocks and Rocky Mountains.

Art

City Parks

Humans

Excerpts from travel notes:​

I dusted off my trousers before leaving Highland Park then heard a voice in the distance call out, “Bro! Hey Bro!...You the wedding Photographer?!?” Honored by this gentleman’s confusion while watching me photograph the park, I replied, “nah, sorry – just a tourist.” The slightly more dapper lad, dressed in a groomsman tux and purple tie gently transitioned his tone to sound softer and more cordial. “Aww bro,” he continued. “Let me be the first to welcome you to my city.” He insisted, “this is my city, bro.” “It’s a beautiful place – snow and cold temperatures in the winter. The summers are hot as hell. The mountains are great. We have everything but a beach. Man. All we need is a beach.” The kind local lamented.

Adrian, was his name. He extended his hand and wished me a good visit. The actual wedding photographer had arrived just at that time.

                                                                                                          ###

As I approached the corner of York and 16th streets I noticed another bicyclist out on a ride, enjoying the splendid cycling weather. I offered a quick “hey! How’s it going?” The baseball capped chap replied, “pretty good. Great day for a ride!” I was in agreement. We continued our small talk as we pedaled around the block. I told him I was visiting Colorado for the first time. Almost instantaneously, my partner in bicycling, as I would later discover, named ‘Austin,’ inquired about my plans for tomorrow. I mentioned that they were quite open-ended. To that, he responded by suggesting that he could take me around the city to show me some of the sites and give me a lay of the land. I hesitated for maybe 0.0001s and then said, “yeah? Really? That would be awesome!”

                                                                                                          ###

Honorable Mentions: Kudos to Boulder buddies Mariah of Urban Green Fame (and husband Shin) and Martha, pride of Florida (but always a Texan) for hanging out and showing me a fun time during my brief visit.

Cherry Creek

B-Cycle

Once departing the bus, I promptly downloaded the B-cycle mobile app (to access the network of the Denver metro area’s cycle share) and resisted the urge to salivate while thinking about the bicycle adventures I would undertake while exploring the lowlands of the Denver region.

​Atop street level, I quickly located the nearest cycle share station. I followed the simple prompts at the kiosk, dropped some of my handheld items in the handlebar-affixed basket, and mounted the squishy-turtle-like seat of the fire engine Trek B-Cycle.

Moments in Electric Vehicle Charging History

Monday 29 February 2016. A delightful interaction with the Public Charging Community.

At the end of one of the longer days in recent memory – two interviews, a visit to a local Starbucks to retrieve a back-up, mobile device, and a peaceful, evening walk along the Green River, I found myself back to unplug ​from the nearest, public EV Charging station: IKEA Seattle’s Blink Charger. Upon returning to the “i3electriclady,” I was greeted with an unexpected, “I love your car.” The kind voice came from a fellow EV charging station visitor. I quietly responded, “thanks,” probably, with a toothy smile.

​The friendly charging station neighbor continued, “how do you like it?” and “how long have you had it?” We chatted about my very positive experience with the i3 that I’ve been driving since shortly after Thanksgiving; she disclosed that she and her partner had test driven one a while back. The fellow Southender then revealed that they weren’t able to commit to an electric vehicle due to the current EVs’ range limitations and meager stock of public charging stations. Like me, they are (apartment) renters and “public chargers.”
​
For quick comparison, the electric range on their 2012 model Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (PHV) is about 18 km (11mi) before utilizing the 1.8 L, 4-cyl gasoline powered engine. The fully electric i3’s range averages 140km/87mi on a single charge. The PHV’s total range, with the aforementioned gas-powered engine as part of the drivetrain, is much greater than any EV on the market – about 850km (530mi) with a full tank and full charge. With the minimal charging stations available for public use, a definite drawback to the EV experience is having to plan, with relative precision, the proximity of the nearest charging station.
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But for a few minor inconveniences, public charging has been an overwhelmingly positive aspect of the EV experience. I’ve not had any instances where the plug has been prematurely removed by a rogue interloper wanting to play a silly prank at a charging station. Nor have there been any undesirable encounters while approaching a parking spot, or when returning to the vehicle after charging.

As for a minor inconvenience, sadly, EV charging stations are not fit with windshield washing bins and squeegees that would allow for enormous fun between us beautiful people waiting for the charging to complete. And although those of us with EVs are, in fact, really, really, really ridiculously good looking, we are powerless in our desire to celebrate our good looking-ness by embracing in a proper windshield squeegee water fight (***CUE ZOOLANDER'S ‘GAS STATION SCENE!'***).

All kidding aside, this night’s encounter was unique in that it allowed for a more substantial interaction with a very interesting couple. Rachel, the kind voice from earlier, was soon joined by her equally kind partner, Parker. They are also transplants from a far off land – the Sooner State of Oklahoma. After meeting Parker, we talked a bit more about public charging, the electric vehicle frontier, and how we’ve migrated to the Northwest. Rachel shared that her position as Staff Photographer with 425 Magazine is what brought them to the Puget Sound region. Parker, also a photojournalist, joined her on the voyage and landed with KPLU, a local public radio station based in Tacoma.

Before we wished each other ‘goodnight,’ we exchanged some parting thoughts on our expectation that the public EV charging infrastructure will rapidly increase, and thus present many more occasions for friendly charging neighbors to interact, the world over.

​Signing out from another moment in Electric Vehicle charging history, Smiley-faced bushy top.

Just give me moments…
​

/r/ItsASmallWorld 

Picture2nd Base: Used Sports Eqpt., Northlake/Univ. District, Seattle, WA, USA
Wednesday 17 February 2016. U-turn for second hand SPORTS! equipment & a lovely appointment with the ND + Team Care at Bastyr Center for Natural Health​

Pt. 1

Today my travels took me to the northside of the 'cut' for an A.M. appointment with my Naturopathic Doctor and associated Team Care. It had been 16mos since my last visit with a practitioner at the BCNH whose appointments tend to be those I'm excited to schedule and keep: they allow me to recap the relatively recent history of feelings felt, reactions to therapies implemented, and symptoms experienced. As I've come to expect, this is a very safe space where I feel comfortable talking about things ranging from the frequency (and quality) of bowel movements (POOP!), levels of libido, sensitivity to the climate and, well, LIFE!, and express the many things that make me happy and the outlets I pursue to fulfill my life's goals.

During today's visit, I maintained total honesty in my responses to the very enlightening and specific questions from the team care students (on this day, Meagan and Leena). Over my life's journey, and while being a patient under the care of various providers of health, I am continually improving my ability to be as open and honest as possible. The goal being: honesty equates to receiving the most exact care. Pretty simple.

As an added benefit, honesty in a safe space allows me to practice how I feel when disclosing personal and sensitive information. Learning from those feelings improves my comfort level when sharing with a broader and sometimes less forgiving audience – and, sure, this blog helps, too. ~(; The appointment finished up after an acceptable assessment of any needs I wanted to discuss. Bastyr’s team is typically mindful of the time and effort and attention they pay to their patients – always appreciative of that quality of theirs.

It goes without saying that after my appointment I felt 100% recharged. To borrow a phrase, I collected many, many, many spoons to add to my day’s allotment of emotional energy. I hope to allocate these additional spoons very wisely throughout the rest of the day and will possibly even benefit from the surplus throughout the entire week!

# # #
​
Pt. 2

After a quick visit to the dispensary, I loaded the E-V and headed to the j-o-b on the Eastside. I kept my eyes peeled for any interesting photo-ops – the tree buds were a bit enticing when I rolled past Gas Works, but I resisted the temptation. As I passed underneath the University Bridge, I noticed a sign that read something to the effect of “2nd base sports: used sporting goods.” I kept moving, but after giving it a second thought, as I typically do, decided to pull a ‘u-eee' right in the middle of traffic – whatevs, don’t judge me.

When I entered the store, I was greeted with a friendly “hi, how are ya?” (must have been another out-of-towner, eh?) I started browsing the racks and, whada ya know, I finally found an actual, for reals, winter coat to purchase after living here, well, geez, almost three whole years now. I kept combing through and, oh, “hey there wind/rain breaker dealio; I’ll have one of you, too!” [Internal monologue] Okay, time to head out; [again, internally] but, but, but there’s a tiny hydration pack that would be perrrrrfect for summer trail runs! “Okay, jump in the cart, hydration pack.” Just-need-that-Asics-base-layer-over-there-and-I’ll-be-on-my-way. Cool. Time to checkout.

The register was stationed by a gentlemen calmly managing the store on this spring-like February morning. We exchanged some pleasantries and then I began divulging to him about the need for all of the clothes I was about to checkout. I told him I moved here three years ago but have yet to adapt my wardrobe to suit a rainier climate. He chuckled and asked, "from where did you move?" When he found out I had spent a lot of time in Philadelphia he mentioned how a bunch of his former classmates settled there after school.

Dude goes, “yeah, I went to a small Quaker school in North Carolina.” The synapses started firing and I nearly got it off my lips before he said, “Guilford College.” Immediately I started rattling off the names of some peeps I knew who were educated there. He confirmed that they were all in school with him at some point during his studies. Really crazy that the influence of such a small school has found me again, out here in the Pacific Northwest.

Before I headed out the door with my BONANZA of gear (worth only $142 USD -- don’t hate), we exchanged contact info and shared the sentiment that Seattle can be rough, you know, with all the millennials keeping their heads down and their eyes on the ‘prize,’ and Seattle Freeze, and yada yada yada. Looking forward to reconnecting with someone who seems like he has an actual soul and would be decent to hang with. Way to go today, Seattle! As this afternoon’s cloud cover grows ever thick, you’ve impressed me with your softer and more positive side!

Just give me moments…

Yours in February feels,

​Smiley faced bushy top.


filed to: Naturopathy, Bastyr Center for Natural Health, spoons, Montlake Cut, It's a Small World, Guilford College, Thriftin', love-hate

New Art & a "Phellow" Philadelphia Transplant

Picture3rd Ave and Broad St, Seattle, WA USA.
Friday 29 January 2016. An unexpected introduction to an art gallery and a fellow transplant from Philadelphiatown.​

Looking for a spot to hang and decompress prior to my shift at the cycle share, I wandered in the area south of Denny Way and walked down 8th Ave towards DT Seattle. After spotting a *bucks across Westlake that looked like it might be a good spot to nap, my gaze shifted right. In front of me appeared an oddly placed building and its storefront window system; the bright lights within the space attracted me to its luminescence.

This particularly bright lighting was needed to display works of art and the building was the home of "ANT Gallery" -- a not-for-profit artists' collective formed in 1988. Straight away upon entering, I felt transported from the relative hustle and bustle of cars departing Seattle for the weekend. I was quite impressed by the building's acoustical treatment, as this gallery was remarkably quiet for its proximity to the busy Westlake Ave. corridor. Architectural details aside, the works on display were rather impressive: surreal, photographic images on canvas, geometric abstract with acrylic paint, a couple impressionistic pieces. It was a very tastefully curated space, indeed.

After browsing the art on display, I headed toward the gallery's "information center." Stationed there was Jeremy, gallery manager, A/NT member, and artist. Also of note, I came to find out (after already have guessed, based on his still somewhat thick "Philly accent") that he was, in fact, from Philadelphia. Jeremy (from Mt. Airy, by way of Fairmount) walked me through the gallery, described the function of A/NT Gallery, and offered thoughts of his Seattle experience after living here 10 years. We delved into his artistic influences from back home, as well as the crowd of street artists with which he used to run back in Philadelphiatown.

You could say that the meeting of another migrant from Philadelphia was the provolone cheez topping on the seitan cheezteak of my late afternoon travels.
Picture
James Guy exhibit at A/NT: Art/Not Terminal Gallery. 2045 Westlake Avenue, Seattle, WA, USA

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