tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18213028945653072302024-03-12T23:11:30.557-07:00paula cipolla's bloghey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-67913960617536290882012-07-30T13:44:00.005-07:002012-07-30T21:52:35.744-07:00All Points Circle Back to Nice where our French Trip Began and Ends<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YPqfcgaXF74/UBdiHgzmvdI/AAAAAAAABz4/oS9_o3eTt_w/s1600/IMG_0183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YPqfcgaXF74/UBdiHgzmvdI/AAAAAAAABz4/oS9_o3eTt_w/s200/IMG_0183.jpg" /></a>
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In Monaco, reflections of two Grand Dames; side entry to Casino Monte Carlo; gardens at the rear.<br><br>
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Hotel lanai overlooking Place Massena and Fontaine du Soleil; Steve's start of his farewell jog.
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I start to feel the days hurrying to end, the breath of departure whispering the countdown of remaining moments. <b>Nice</b> calls us back to rekindle our arrival memory and embrace our return. Not done yet, we make a spontaneous decision to grab a bus and head to <b>Monaco</b>, a serpentine trip along the Mediterranean coastal roadway. The Grand Prix road race leaves its residual memories in the way of chain link fencing, stadium seating and road banners, as visual proof of yesterday's event. No particular agenda, we poke around the few city blocks by its ornate casinos and hotels with its heady personages just to say 'we were there'! <br><br>
Returning to Nice, dusk sets in. I sit in the small bistro chair on our hotel patio peering out over the expansive Place Massena grounded by the captivating fountain, Fontaine du Soleil with its mythological figures, the perfect exclamation point to this trip, a nod to the final night of one last French dream. <br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-56474294216980873512012-07-29T22:44:00.002-07:002012-08-02T15:40:16.864-07:00Photos & Narrative:From the theater of Orange to Van Gogh's Arles<b>ARLES: IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF VAN GOGH</b><br><br>
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At The Place de la République in the center of Arles, the obelisk points to the Heavens, by the stunning Church St Trophime, a silent acknowledgement of a wedding in progress.<br><br>
Like a chameleon, the city and commune that is <b>Arles</b> has morphed and transitioned over time, blending with, into, through various societal changes and historical adaptations. Footsteps everywhere, people on the move. Zigzagging, narrow streets in the core of the city, life is in a perpetual hub of activity with a little bit of this, a little bit of that. I'm much more interested in Van Gogh's presence here than in the historical stamp although both intertwine, intersect, and weave seamlessly. Posted signage around the city give the viewer a vantage point of where Van Gogh set his easel as the viewer considers the current day setting in juxtaposition. Flanked by the Rhone River, it's a beautiful setting, easy to meander, and to bump into sights along the way or just sit in a local café and watch the world pass by.
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Sunset lighting highlights the interior corridors of the Roman arena and amphitheater while youths play soccer and a kid rests.<br><br>
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Our hotel terrace; painted wall mural in town; a busy street scene.<br>
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A town entry point welcomes with a symbolic plaque; Van Gogh's yellow café at Place de Forum looks almost identical as in 1888; rooftops and flowers.
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<b>ORANGE</b>
<br><br>The Roman theater at <b>Orange</b>, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its intact rear wall continues to impress. Performances are still presented in its ample stadium seating area.<br><br>
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Photos inside Orange theater and a staircase scene.<br><br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-70016207724914437702012-07-29T16:23:00.001-07:002012-07-29T23:41:42.490-07:00Photos & Narrative: The "Rocky Spur" that is Les Baux-de-Provence<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOmVMvo135Q/UBXIqPdMLWI/AAAAAAAABqo/_d0ny66o61g/s1600/IMG_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOmVMvo135Q/UBXIqPdMLWI/AAAAAAAABqo/_d0ny66o61g/s200/IMG_0003.jpg" /></a>
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Le Château des Baux, fortified castle built in the 10th c. <br><br>
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The Château seen from an upper promintory; view of wild flowers; scenes of the lower town.<br>
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Looking down into the valley; the upper area from the edge of the plateau; a reenactment. <br><br>
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Why I can't trust Steve with a camera! The MOST delicious coffee at Café Au Porte Mages.<br><br>
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Steve & Paula pose for photos around Les Baux; Steve tries bull meat... and that's no bull!<br><br>
<b>LES BAUX-DE-PROVENCE</b><br><br>
Set high atop the Alpilles mountains surrounded by countryside is the ancient and remarkable pinnacle that is <b>Les Baux-de-Provence</b>. Its Provençal name means "rocky spur" and that it is! Remnants of habitation date back to a mind-boggling 6,000 years BC with the site dominated and controlled by different factions over time. Nowadays, it's a splendid rocky summit and plateau comprised of a town with shops in the lower section rising up to a flat plateau and culminating further up to the destroyed castle, its brokenness a powerful testament to the backlash from Cardinal Richelieu's 1632 response to the town's bold Protestant attempt at revolt.<br><br>
I'd describe Les Baux as 'where Masada meets Petra and a little of SW Native American' landscape thrown in as well, as evidenced by its impressive rock and massive cliffs, white washed in a brilliant sun like a lunar landscape, smoothed surfaces with swiss cheese style holes, deep valleys scraped away below into geometric patterns of vineyards, olive trees and other pastoral/farming concerns. A note of interest: the aluminum ore, Bauxite was discovered here in 1821, its name drawn from this village! <br><br>
Wandering Les Baux takes an entire day. Exposed, the May sun, although not summer-strong, is fierce upon my skin. Despite this, how can I not rise to the highest point? Go to the medieval reenactment? Meander upon the expansive plateau feeling like a rock climber in a Master Card commercial? Touch the flag pole and gaze into distant Alpilles? Included in our roamings was a splendid aerial tour video of the sights of SE France inside the chapel, visiting the museum, as well as a quick look-see at the photo exhibit of 20th c French photographer Lucien Lorelle. Time to people watch is mandatory as we ate at the picturesque Café Au Porte Mages, later a cool beer at an outdoor umbrella'd pub.
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Open topped cistern awaits the next rainfall; small chapel on site.<br><br>
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A flag waves from a high point of the château; the chapel; a local shop entices customers.<br><br>
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Black & White photo display by renown French photographer Lucien Lorelle.<br><br>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fUJA1h0LeZQ/UBXNCKPaJpI/AAAAAAAABsU/bb0nb-_UA0M/s1600/IMG_0029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fUJA1h0LeZQ/UBXNCKPaJpI/AAAAAAAABsU/bb0nb-_UA0M/s200/IMG_0029.jpg" /></a><br> Artful decor outside the small museum; Life among the ruins.<br><br>
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Looking down at the lower village shops from up high; Finding Roman ruins in the outskirts of Les Baux.<br><br>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nWtX-0YCD0g/UBXkXkq6VkI/AAAAAAAABtk/T_wBRe69JVo/s1600/IMG_0096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nWtX-0YCD0g/UBXkXkq6VkI/AAAAAAAABtk/T_wBRe69JVo/s200/IMG_0096.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0zpytfyhgD8/UBXNC7XYkOI/AAAAAAAABss/JeCvLWlOrz8/s1600/IMG_0097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0zpytfyhgD8/UBXNC7XYkOI/AAAAAAAABss/JeCvLWlOrz8/s200/IMG_0097.jpg" /></a><br> Olive grove and local farmhouse flanking Roman aqueduct and mill at an obscure pastoral area in Barbegal (near Les Baux).<br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-26428589179323386992012-07-26T11:34:00.002-07:002012-07-27T10:54:17.015-07:00Chanteduc: A special visit with foodie Patricia WellsMemories can be wooed back into the present by all the senses and wow! has the special invitation offered our group by <b>author-chef Patricia Wells </b>yanked me back via Vaison's captivating memory drawer! <br><br>
Karen, one of our group, contacted Patricia ahead of time asking about a chance to visit Patricia at her Provence address, and see her cooking school, since Karen & the group would be in the same town for a writing class. Not only did Patricia Wells respond but she opened up her home (called "Chanteduc") & heart for our entire writing group! Over hors d'oeuvres and local wine, Patricia and her gregarious husband, Walter, not only graciously welcomed us but were so friendly we felt like old friends in no time. Chatting up a storm, they walked us around their beautiful gardens, vineyard, and in the famous kitchen, the hearth of the home, and where she conducts her cooking classes. <br><br>
Steve was in Badger heaven, delighted to learn that he & Patricia attended the University of Wisconsin, and that the other "UW" can proudly call her one of their own.<br><br>
Here's an excerpt about her from her own website, http://patriciawells.com:
"Patricia Wells is an American who has lived in Paris since 1980. She is the author of 11 books, including Vegetable Harvest, We've Always Had Paris...and Provence, Bistro Cooking, Simply French, and Trattoria. Her first book, The Food Lover’s Guide to Paris, was a landmark work that "cracked the code" to the Paris food world. She is the only woman and only foreigner to serve as restaurant critic of a major French publication, the newsweekly L’Express.<br><br>
She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for her contributions to French culture, and received an honorary degree in gastronomic journalism from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. Several of her books have received the James Beard and IACP awards, and most of them have been translated into several languages. She is married to Walter Wells, retired executive editor of the International Herald Tribune and now her enthusiastic sous-chef." <br><br>
We are so awed by Patricia and Walter's generosity! <b>Thank you Patricia & Walter!!
</b>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-76264840141130414632012-07-25T12:50:00.001-07:002012-07-25T13:18:33.643-07:00Photos: Time Shared with Author, Patricia Wells & A Group Hike to Le Crestet<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OUNwC3xRD6Q/UBBNB91pRLI/AAAAAAAABkM/oEullOyEnfc/s1600/IMG_9368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="153" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OUNwC3xRD6Q/UBBNB91pRLI/AAAAAAAABkM/oEullOyEnfc/s200/IMG_9368.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4FbZRiARhVY/UBBM2Nk4NFI/AAAAAAAABkA/VhnbM74rwMM/s1600/IMG_9381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4FbZRiARhVY/UBBM2Nk4NFI/AAAAAAAABkA/VhnbM74rwMM/s200/IMG_9381.jpg" /></a><br>12th c castle Le Chateau overseas Vaison & surrounding valley; Lisa & Paula <br> pair up on the hike to Le Crestet.<br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-83488608121651939892012-07-24T23:25:00.001-07:002012-07-24T23:29:39.010-07:00Two Wineries: A Day of GrapesOur group set off for our first winery, <b>Château de Beaucastel</b> in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, breezing along through the pleasant nearby countryside, the smell of heady earth in our nostrils, with passing views of dazzling emerald green flows of grasses and grape vines in a steady flowing stream. Never mind the 9am hour, tastes are always in style! We were graciously greeted by Kirsty who toured us by the vines nestled into their rocky earthly beds, through the extensive winery building, stopping along the way at oak barrels, neatly lined towers of wine bottles in dark cellars, and finally to the tasting room.<br><br>
Personable owners Christophe and Fabrice at <b>Domaine de la Mordorée</b> in nearby Tavel welcomed us, humbly and patiently answering our many questions. A book of their many recognitions and honors lay on the countertop speaking to the result of their efforts at this small, family owned winery. Christophe's dedication to this place seemed to be simply written on his T-shirt: "Born to Make Wine"!<br><br>
Of course, you can't go running off to drink at wineries morning and afternoon without stopping for a bite to eat. This called for an inbetween pit stop for more refueling and to experience the delights of an exquisitely prepared and tasteful culinary midday meal at <b>Le Verger Des Papes</b>, a hidden jewel.<br><br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-36610640443555763742012-07-24T11:00:00.000-07:002012-07-24T23:30:41.672-07:00Photos: A day at the Wineries<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IXt0QHg5TWM/UA7hgO2Uv1I/AAAAAAAABg0/Ji0nuqujK4s/s1600/IMG_9169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IXt0QHg5TWM/UA7hgO2Uv1I/AAAAAAAABg0/Ji0nuqujK4s/s200/IMG_9169.jpg" /></a>
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Entry gate Château de Beaucastel in Châteauneuf-du-Pape; Winery reflecting pool.<br><br>
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Wonderful owners/vinters, Fabrice & Christophe, at Domaine de la Mordorée teach us about their wines & give us tastes.<br><br>
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Woodcock, the namesake symbol of Domaine de la Mordorée; The exquisite Le Verger des Papes Restaurant.<br><br>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g0u7bt4vgM4/UA7hg0uVbzI/AAAAAAAABhM/H5dwP9Wujro/s1600/IMG_9224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g0u7bt4vgM4/UA7hg0uVbzI/AAAAAAAABhM/H5dwP9Wujro/s200/IMG_9224.jpg" /></a><br> Outdoor terrace and colorful salad at Le Verger des Papes Restaurant.<br><br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-13028268221939849402012-07-24T10:49:00.002-07:002012-07-24T10:49:46.073-07:00Market Day Vaison la RomaineIn the lower town, the weekly Tuesday market takes shape in its web of streets despite the overcast drizzle. A coil of aromas turns my head in different directions to better advantage: whiffs of fish fill the air, delicious perfumes intermingle with baked bread and pastries, the sounds of conversation and money exchange jingle in harmony. Near the fruit and vegetable sections, I spy carrots the size a little girl’s arm, mounds of billowy white-green curly lettuce, military green curvaceous bell peppers tumble in confused pleasure, fire engine red strawberries and apples, brilliant yellow bananas lined up in neat rows tout their exploding colors as if bounding from an artist’s palette. Further along, a massive pan of paella simmers with its glistening delights of inky black mussels, red peppers, befuddled shrimp, golden yellow colored rice, green beans, and other delights joining in flavor satisfaction while its owner gathers up a scoopful destined for a hungry tummy. Rods of clothes, purses, baskets, flowers, fragrances and soaps, and a multitude of variety items combine with a plethora of people who jostle amongst the interchange.hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-21225496980743500022012-07-24T10:18:00.002-07:002012-07-24T10:29:11.274-07:00Photos: Vaison la Romaine Market Day<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-28dWPVWf5Uo/UA7Xxx1MthI/AAAAAAAABfA/yFBql84X1YQ/s1600/IMG_8941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-28dWPVWf5Uo/UA7Xxx1MthI/AAAAAAAABfA/yFBql84X1YQ/s200/IMG_8941.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OStI-FnnId4/UA7YNLSz7NI/AAAAAAAABfo/saWedqiscyo/s1600/IMG_8921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OStI-FnnId4/UA7YNLSz7NI/AAAAAAAABfo/saWedqiscyo/s200/IMG_8921.jpg" /></a><br> Paella gets served up on the spot; bursting colors of carry bags; veggies all lined up.<br><br>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9qzThSRugiw/UA7YuPKUMpI/AAAAAAAABgE/FVBl1G5lomU/s1600/IMG_8994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9qzThSRugiw/UA7YuPKUMpI/AAAAAAAABgE/FVBl1G5lomU/s200/IMG_8994.jpg" /></a><br> Steve & Chris relax after a tough day at the market; our group pools market purchases for an impromptu dinner feast.<br><br>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BuznzL0Fc40/UA7XzaJrL8I/AAAAAAAABfc/j-mspTb0pJk/s1600/IMG_8973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BuznzL0Fc40/UA7XzaJrL8I/AAAAAAAABfc/j-mspTb0pJk/s200/IMG_8973.jpg" /></a><br> Our writing group portrait prior to digging into the feast: Paula, Nick,Charles, Chris, Lorelei, Steve, Julie, Karen; Paula nabs the dessert responsibility.<br><br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-49826435481430737022012-07-22T20:14:00.004-07:002012-07-22T20:24:08.584-07:00A Writing Goal intersects with An Unexpected GemWe arrived at the destination point and reason for our trip, Nick O'Connell's travel writing course in the diminutive village of <b>Vaison-la-Romaine</b>, and, speaking for myself, without expectation. Let the sticks fall where they may, I was ready for whatever adventures that place had in store for us.<br><br>
An excerpt from my finished written piece (anyone know a magazine publisher??):<br><br>
I’d ventured to Vaison-la-Romaine, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France, to permit the timelessness of this place to instill calm, to allow its paths to draw me through them without purpose or expectation... A leisurely breakfast in Hostellerie le Beffroi’s outdoor garden terrace sucked me in like a Calgon-bath ad. Sun-speckled pebbles peeped out from sizeable leafy tree shadows, an oval hoop of short hedging corralled rose plantings, wall-crawling vines edged up vertical heights created movement where there was none apparent. I chose a round table by the low stone wall overlooking the expansive lower town and pulled out a chair. The nearby church belfry, with its large, iron-numbered, ebony-outlined clock face, was a convenient diving base for birds jumping out, nose diving, chasing one another and returning again. I sat entranced, sipping that delicious, perfectly prepared café au lait, nibbling on a chocolate croissant, fresh bread with apricot jam, sliced cheese, and prosciutto, and contemplating my days ahead...<br><br>
Strolling through the medieval Upper Town evokes a long history with each footstep on the worn cobblestoned paths. The way is littered with period and cultural curlicues: flower drenched courtyards beckon beyond wrought iron gates; time honored shutters disclose peeling faded paint; raspberry-magenta colored Jupiter’s Beard nudged into wall crevices pop deliciously towards the sunlight; meandering twist-and-turn walkways; jutting roofline angles splice cerulean blue sky...<br><br>
Vaison-la-Romaine’s compact size allows me to find treasures wherever I stroll and on the edge of the town’s main core area are the notable remains from its nearly two thousand year old Gallo-Roman inhabitants...A vertical labyrinth of mystery unfolds with each zigzag turn...Black and white photographs...are the result of a 2008 exposition...mur-murées (wall stories or murals) called "Des Pierres et Des Hommes" (Stone and Men) sponsored by the ‘Association Pour la Protection de la Haute-Ville de Vaison’. These photographs depict and recognize the people who live or have lived in this upper village but more than that, challenge the viewer to "open the door of your imagination and go back a few days, a few months, a few centuries", making a visceral connection through these age-worn stones.<br><br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-81173873393239263832012-07-22T19:13:00.003-07:002012-07-23T11:52:23.024-07:00Photos: Vaison la Romaine, our writing headquarters<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6bz7VcgWfes/UAyvvX6Oz9I/AAAAAAAABa8/uGeeDyoRBzY/s1600/IMG_8868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6bz7VcgWfes/UAyvvX6Oz9I/AAAAAAAABa8/uGeeDyoRBzY/s200/IMG_8868.jpg" /></a>
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Nick O'Connell, our maestro extraordinaire;Upper Town cobblestone pathways & one of the wall murals.<br><br>
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Entry arch into Upper Town;drying clothes with French flag color theme.<br><br>
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Upper Town fountain at sunset;by the wine/cheese shop;Inside Hostellerie le Beffroi looking out.<br><br>
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Floor tile detail in the museum;French colors manifest at an outdoor restaurant.<br>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwQ7GNcDYnE/UAyvvwGHQNI/AAAAAAAABbU/GOP6FK97onc/s1600/IMG_9342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwQ7GNcDYnE/UAyvvwGHQNI/AAAAAAAABbU/GOP6FK97onc/s200/IMG_9342.jpg" /></a><br>Relaxing after a tough day of market shopping;The Roman bridge over the Ouvèze River connects Upper & Lower Towns.<br><br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-54264917282454463622012-07-22T18:16:00.003-07:002012-07-22T18:42:54.858-07:00Photos: Uzès, the start of the 50km Aqueduct<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nacxpznak2M/UAynDDqsXqI/AAAAAAAABZ0/fHdEqryNATY/s1600/IMG_8805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nacxpznak2M/UAynDDqsXqI/AAAAAAAABZ0/fHdEqryNATY/s200/IMG_8805.jpg" /></a>
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Welcome to Uzès! People watching, sips, listening to music at the outdoor café.<br><br>
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Steps lead to Fenestrelle Tower & Saint-Théodorit Cathedral; Steve hanging out with the girls.<br><br>
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Impromptu street musicians in the square; Pastries & Tea = Paula.<br><br>
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Street scenes: dangerously quaint shops.<br><br>
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Steve checks out a stylish hat;Paula warms the stone steps.<br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-74013096918503271042012-07-22T17:46:00.000-07:002012-07-22T17:52:40.331-07:00Photos: Pont du Gard<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ta0iHvmO0bI/UAyeDzLLIMI/AAAAAAAABWk/SwyhNdPLSMw/s1600/IMG_8723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ta0iHvmO0bI/UAyeDzLLIMI/AAAAAAAABWk/SwyhNdPLSMw/s200/IMG_8723.jpg" /></a>
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Check out the massive columns; Rick Steves guides and informs us on our journey.<br><br>
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Pont du Gard with the Gardon River in the background;check out the size of the people vs the bridge structure!<br><br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-67183392437672730702012-07-22T15:25:00.002-07:002012-07-22T18:02:16.027-07:00Avignon: City of PopesFrom a distance it could be where Cinderella went to the castle ball. Instead it's a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserved in all its medieval-Gothic glory: ramparts, historic center, Palace of the Popes, Rochers-des-Dom gardens, and the unfinished bridge of <b>Avignon</b>. Even the brilliant sun seemed to welcome us in a herald of glory. A driving tour encircling the town's stone walls gave us a sense of the size of the city, and ability to see the bridge Saint-Bénezet (built 12c, destroyed, collapsed, finally abandoned in the 17c), all of which evoked its historic charm. <br><br>
Popes (fleeing the Rome chaos in 1309) and anti-popes (during the Great [Catholic church] Schism of the 14th & 15c) built this city into an extravaganza, which, expanded over time, became more of a fortress. An audio tour of the palace gives history and permits the imagination to flow since the rooms and halls are barren of furnishings. Softening the cold, grey stone was a rose & flower show in progress during our visit. Highlights were the frescoes, particularly the hunting scene in the Stag Room/Study, which I thought a surprising pictorial topic, beautifully and artfully painted with birds, warriors, bows and arrows, hunters in the forest. <br><br>
It was fun to poke around Avignon with its winding streets, all points leading back towards the palace. Connecting squares bustling with cafés and restaurants, lined up back-to-back with its neighbor, were jammed with people socializing and waiters hovering like mosquitoes back and forth to patrons. Massive trees, awnings, and table umbrellas provided ample shade. <br><br>
Avignon is a great jumping off point to other sites and smaller towns in the Provence region. A short drive to another UNESCO site, the great aqueduct bridge <b>Pont du Gard, </b>that crosses the Gardon River, gives us more of a taste of Roman occupation and influence in this region, not to mention exquisite architectural and engineering feat. The informative museum gives many details but cannot prepare me for the incredible, massive structure we are about to see. Within the distance of 50km (about 31 miles)water was brought from the spring at Uzès across and through valleys, mountains, and flat land alike to its destination, Nîmes, dropping 56 feet within that entire length. It took 15 years to build the entire aqueduct and 5 years alone on this bridge. I was blown away!<br><br>
After seeing the Pont du Gard, it was a short driving jaunt over to the quaint town of <b>Uzès</b> to check out the main starting point for this incredible water journey. We poked around town, ate at a tea shop, plopped down at an outdoor café to soak in some impromptu music, and admired the Pisa-like pillar called Fenestrelle Tower, part of Saint-Théodorit Cathedral.<br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-54810402744273669452012-07-21T13:01:00.000-07:002012-07-21T23:30:14.932-07:00Photos: Off to Avignon, City of the Popes<b>INSIDE THE MEDIVAL, WALLED PAPAL CITY</b><br><br>
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<br>Avignon's famous "broken" bridge with its famous sweethearts<br><br>
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<br> Street musicians in regalia touting their tunes <br><br>
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<br> View of the city from inside the Pope's Palace; view into the main square<br><br>
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<br> Interior of the palace; pedestrian down a narrow street <br><br>
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<br> Bicycle & intersecting lines; Steve in front of the Palace <br><br>
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<br>Eye popping candies, aka Steve in Heaven; Papal Palace at sunset<br><br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-12153319550775562242012-07-04T16:53:00.000-07:002012-07-21T14:00:14.746-07:00Photos: Nice, France: Old Town<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-14QSqUIlqY0/UANYUjlFqQI/AAAAAAAABIQ/7s23QvEuy8E/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-14QSqUIlqY0/UANYUjlFqQI/AAAAAAAABIQ/7s23QvEuy8E/s200/1.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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<br>Castle Hill waterfall; Rear of Jules Cheret Fine Art Museum<br><br>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrKfHnFSTwg/UANYihfzFvI/AAAAAAAABIo/YUcwLUGUcLc/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrKfHnFSTwg/UANYihfzFvI/AAAAAAAABIo/YUcwLUGUcLc/s200/3.jpg" width="150" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xkZxnQvbvlg/UANYi3zo6KI/AAAAAAAABI0/yPTZmS-69a4/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xkZxnQvbvlg/UANYi3zo6KI/AAAAAAAABI0/yPTZmS-69a4/s200/4.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />Castle Hill waterfall; Drying laundry<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VqT1Qtxqu54/UANZRwCqlkI/AAAAAAAABJA/3r1g7XpztCE/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VqT1Qtxqu54/UANZRwCqlkI/AAAAAAAABJA/3r1g7XpztCE/s200/5.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AuUdOkyQ18w/UANZSFVwSmI/AAAAAAAABJM/h4z5AR_cS0I/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AuUdOkyQ18w/UANZSFVwSmI/AAAAAAAABJM/h4z5AR_cS0I/s200/6.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />Ste Marie des Anges parish church; Local café graffiti<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TlG1499oqJs/UANZSZ4W1oI/AAAAAAAABJY/-8rK0RkhCKc/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TlG1499oqJs/UANZSZ4W1oI/AAAAAAAABJY/-8rK0RkhCKc/s200/7.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X1YKn_OPuPo/UANZSgrHU2I/AAAAAAAABJk/qaGkJpt5D7c/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X1YKn_OPuPo/UANZSgrHU2I/AAAAAAAABJk/qaGkJpt5D7c/s200/8.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />In gardens by St Marie des Anges-Franciscan museum; Seating along the Promenade des Anglais<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f5UdDfKS_Ag/UANlT7Id6YI/AAAAAAAABJ0/BEpi7JoUvBU/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f5UdDfKS_Ag/UANlT7Id6YI/AAAAAAAABJ0/BEpi7JoUvBU/s200/9.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_3jhZDb4Ne0/UANlUHHkVJI/AAAAAAAABKA/wBUc0VWPhYA/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_3jhZDb4Ne0/UANlUHHkVJI/AAAAAAAABKA/wBUc0VWPhYA/s200/10.jpg" /></a><br />Hotel Royal Promenade des Anglais; Gioia café & patisserie<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7WtgQRuWB0Y/UANlUXehZGI/AAAAAAAABKM/PoVXzYov6zk/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7WtgQRuWB0Y/UANlUXehZGI/AAAAAAAABKM/PoVXzYov6zk/s200/11.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nBfo0_i0X0Y/UANlU6WM_fI/AAAAAAAABKY/vWBFkqdUqDc/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nBfo0_i0X0Y/UANlU6WM_fI/AAAAAAAABKY/vWBFkqdUqDc/s200/12.jpg" /></a><br />Matisse museum (rear); Mediterranean view from our hotel<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3qgfb53Qs30/UANlVbn8iYI/AAAAAAAABKk/QVUmV12SFCU/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3qgfb53Qs30/UANlVbn8iYI/AAAAAAAABKk/QVUmV12SFCU/s200/13.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X182sv36O-s/UANl6VK3x6I/AAAAAAAABKw/qrYNCREqBOQ/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X182sv36O-s/UANl6VK3x6I/AAAAAAAABKw/qrYNCREqBOQ/s200/14.jpg" /></a><br />Dress made from blue plastic water bottles!; City view from Castle Hill<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EbGFWmjkHZ4/UANl6uFjczI/AAAAAAAABK8/REpY5xsoRac/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EbGFWmjkHZ4/UANl6uFjczI/AAAAAAAABK8/REpY5xsoRac/s200/15.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a59vXVHiG_U/UANl63t8COI/AAAAAAAABLI/5CDgJSIGvVg/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a59vXVHiG_U/UANl63t8COI/AAAAAAAABLI/5CDgJSIGvVg/s200/16.jpg" /></a><br />Ruins near Matisse museum; Staircase descent from Castle hill<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9BVYRFCw6sI/UANl7IlTfNI/AAAAAAAABLU/fnJOwshV9FY/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9BVYRFCw6sI/UANl7IlTfNI/AAAAAAAABLU/fnJOwshV9FY/s200/17.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dC3ebdPH6LA/UANl7ZsVx0I/AAAAAAAABLg/iSIUMqgg2Q8/s1600/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dC3ebdPH6LA/UANl7ZsVx0I/AAAAAAAABLg/iSIUMqgg2Q8/s200/18.jpg" /></a><br />Grand Dame The Negresco Hotel; Promenade des Anglais<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-clXB4su1B1A/UANmOrsO3vI/AAAAAAAABLs/5VVX231ezTw/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-clXB4su1B1A/UANmOrsO3vI/AAAAAAAABLs/5VVX231ezTw/s200/19.jpg" /></a><br />Niki de Saint-Phalle arthey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-17351508178172418842012-07-03T14:31:00.000-07:002012-07-03T14:43:19.408-07:00BEGINNING AND ENDING POINT: NICE
</b>Nice</b>, a popular springboard point into southeast France, nudging the Monaco/Italy border, was true to it's name. What a nice city! We scaled <b>Castle hill </b>for a fine vantage point with which to oversee the harbor and the activity along the <b>Promenade des Anglais</b>, noting the hypnotic waves lapping the Mediterranean shoreline and the streaming buzz of motorcycles, buses and cars. The <b>Modern Art museum </b>was a mixed bag: some art, interesting and thought provoking; some art, well, left me wondering: why??? A bus took us to the <b>Matisse mansion</b> housing a variety of his works, paintings and sculpture. The museum sits adjacent to the not so interesting archeology museum on one side, and a lovely park on the other, behind which sits a fabulous church, <b>Ste Marie des Anges and Franciscan Museum</b> (closed the day we visited). Behind the church/museum was a stunning park, favored by locals and tourists who meandered slowly chatting with each other, sitting quietly with their own thoughts, or kids playing at a gallop. Beautiful rose gardens, and comfortable spaces invited peace. The <b>Fine Arts Museum</b>, again true to its name, was really "fine", a lovely building with rear gardens, and some quality pieces, particulary by Jules Cheret's fanciful, colorful, animated style works. Other works by famous painters Raoul Dufy, Bonnard and Carpeaux. The majestic grande dame Hotel Negresco was fun to explore and we enjoyed seeing the whimsical sculpture of Niki de Saint Phalle. We savored the beckoning aromas of espresso at the ubiquitous cafés and hit upon culinary jackpots, of which the most notable was <b>Villa d'Oeste </b>restaurant.hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-44109759908526945882012-07-03T12:14:00.002-07:002012-07-22T14:39:05.856-07:00THE NON-APPEAL OF FRANCEFrance had never evoked my wanderlust spirit nor beckoned me to visit her. In fact, it seems I'd purposely circumvented this popular western European country. Roaming, instead, through several of its bordering neighbors, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Germany and Belgium with thorough, unabated zeal. In hindsight, having just returned from a 'purpose-driven' vacation in France, I now ask myself: was it avoidance or really circling in to the bull's-eye target? <br><br>
A trip to France must have been pre-destined, happening slowly over time, like a locomotive steadily gaining velocity. It had begun with a general purpose thought to take a writing workshop with our neighbor, an outdoor and wine writer, author, Nick O'Connell, who teaches various Seattle and on-line classes through "The Writer's Workshop". Nick's overseas workshops appeals to writers and potential writers, arranging visits to France or Italy, once a year, on an alternating country schedule. 2012 was to southeastern France, specifically, destination: Vaison-la-Romaine. Nick seems to engage my sense of adventure. My mind's vision of Nick places him on his pannier-laden bicycle, headgear intact, forging upright these quad bursting hills of our Queen Anne neighborhood, a heart-thumping activity even for the strongest cyclist. Nick seemed the perfect "man for the job."<br><br>
So, the seed was planted: mental ruminations culminating in a brainstorm to connect my photography passion with an early life dabbling in writing to a intersecting, convergence point. I decided 2012 France was going to be "it"! The zenith merge of pen with visual illustration. <br><br>
The workshop schedule was a series of morning "class" instruction followed by honoring the traditional two-hour lunch break, then afternoon activities. Surprisingly, even Steve thought the trip would be fun and signed up for the writing class too. We both enjoyed our writing mates immensely (Nick's wife, Lisa Sowder; two New Yorkers; a Puerto Rican former newspaper writer; a North Carolina real estate agent; and Chris Olsen, Nick's right hand, go-to man not signed up in the class but participating in the trip's success/organization). As one of them pointed out sometime during our week's adventure & a takeoff from Hash House Harriers theme: we were "a wine group with a writing problem."hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-6703189839046080622011-04-08T20:26:00.001-07:002012-07-23T13:18:45.947-07:00Fun In & Around Antigua (+ Photos)<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGvIJSXqa3E/TZ_S8bKLXJI/AAAAAAAABCU/ogeCVTHCsqU/s1600/IMG_2528.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGvIJSXqa3E/TZ_S8bKLXJI/AAAAAAAABCU/ogeCVTHCsqU/s200/IMG_2528.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593421197741874322" /></a>
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The girls go ziplining near Antigua; one of the surrounding volcanoes.<br><br>
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By the stables Finca Filadelfia; on the terrace with volcano in background.<br><br>
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The Latte Lover Girls' Club.<br><br>
<br />Saying we worked the entire time would be stretching the truth - note: photos! Upon arrival in country, Steve slept in while I visited a coffee plantation/"resort" outside of Antigua in Jocotenango. 5 of us ladies decided we'd like a birds eye view of the area, best served by ziplining! Whoooo! Hooo!hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-9417929705388157492011-04-08T20:19:00.000-07:002012-07-23T15:28:30.544-07:00Photos:Share the Gifts & the Love<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6-ySvOCyOyo/TZ_RVy4HvoI/AAAAAAAABBo/Vfs3y2joZ3s/s1600/IMG_3003.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6-ySvOCyOyo/TZ_RVy4HvoI/AAAAAAAABBo/Vfs3y2joZ3s/s200/IMG_3003.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593419434582064770" /></a>
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Raxruhá:In the kitchen getting lunch; Nina & Easter's birthday celebration.<br><br>
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Peeking inside the clinic; Volunteers take a break with dental humor.<br><br>
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Kids show off the school supplies we donated. Thanks to those of you who sent funds or supplies!<br><br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-30494025304226533052011-04-08T20:14:00.000-07:002012-07-23T15:27:23.183-07:00Clinic Photos: Patients & Volunteers<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dO_5sbPW3aU/TZ_Pzu9KPLI/AAAAAAAABA8/VC47OK5cmLk/s1600/IMG_2955.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dO_5sbPW3aU/TZ_Pzu9KPLI/AAAAAAAABA8/VC47OK5cmLk/s200/IMG_2955.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593417749902277810" /></a>
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View of the working clinic; Medical providers Melissa & Joyce with Guatemala volunteer/translator<br><br>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lJy0clruPWs/TZ_PzAkRXNI/AAAAAAAABAk/PvMy9HhUsKU/s1600/IMG_2922.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lJy0clruPWs/TZ_PzAkRXNI/AAAAAAAABAk/PvMy9HhUsKU/s200/IMG_2922.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593417737449856210" /></a><br />
Donated reading glasses help a lot thanks to sister, Laura; new girlfriends/patients.<br><br>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ECY_aBf_YoQ/TZ_Py9whToI/AAAAAAAABAc/0BFVCbb2FRo/s1600/IMG_2915.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ECY_aBf_YoQ/TZ_Py9whToI/AAAAAAAABAc/0BFVCbb2FRo/s200/IMG_2915.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593417736695926402" /></a>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-8494630228353016982011-04-08T20:13:00.000-07:002011-04-08T20:14:04.812-07:00Giving ThanksIn the end, although we gave of our time & talents, we're better individuals for the experience & nourishment we receive back multi-fold. God has given us our own special gifts/talents & it's our responsibility to share them with others! We were infused with the generosity & love of the local people and we came away better ourselves. <br /><br />Thanks to several patients & organizations who donated products & supported us: Dag & Jim of Crest/Proctor & Gamble, Dr Er-Jia Mao, Scott Keene of Burkhart Dental, Tidi Products; Tom & Laurie Perricone/Chesley, Maureen Searle, Evanthia Nanou, Arian & Harold Giesholt/Lane, & my sister, Laura Benjamin (who mailed me 2 dozen reading glasses!)hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-52567857325954167622011-04-08T20:09:00.000-07:002012-07-23T15:33:07.185-07:00Photos: In Clinic<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UsxyXEVD_Hg/TZ_Oq_KxWvI/AAAAAAAABAQ/D25d90bzbl0/s1600/IMG_2840.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UsxyXEVD_Hg/TZ_Oq_KxWvI/AAAAAAAABAQ/D25d90bzbl0/s200/IMG_2840.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593416500123884274" /></a>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u_xpOTmotw0/TZ_OqoafEfI/AAAAAAAABAI/-mj-yw6eI0I/s1600/IMG_2842.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u_xpOTmotw0/TZ_OqoafEfI/AAAAAAAABAI/-mj-yw6eI0I/s200/IMG_2842.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593416494015779314" /></a><br />
A satisfied dental patient with Nina & Dr Steve; New reading glasses.<br><br>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVL_AfA4cA8/TZ_OqnsbKEI/AAAAAAAABAA/ETN7eAk_2ew/s1600/IMG_2831.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVL_AfA4cA8/TZ_OqnsbKEI/AAAAAAAABAA/ETN7eAk_2ew/s200/IMG_2831.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593416493822584898" /></a>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j8dpFZuQMwk/TZ_OqUlF7BI/AAAAAAAAA_4/rljL57_cQes/s1600/IMG_2813.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j8dpFZuQMwk/TZ_OqUlF7BI/AAAAAAAAA_4/rljL57_cQes/s200/IMG_2813.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593416488691559442" /></a><br />
Patiently waiting for their name to be called to enter clinic; Pastor Andres with Dr Steve attend a dental patient.<br><br>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tSVl4xlKoGc/TZ_OqPpOsfI/AAAAAAAAA_w/jtdb03aTLEU/s1600/IMG_2796.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tSVl4xlKoGc/TZ_OqPpOsfI/AAAAAAAAA_w/jtdb03aTLEU/s200/IMG_2796.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593416487366734322" /></a><br> Waiting his turn to see the physician.<br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-44642797859465502872011-04-08T20:07:00.000-07:002011-04-08T20:09:11.944-07:00Local RoutineWe entered into lives where a daily routine of a family's survival includes a basic multitude of mouths to feed, clothing to wash, corn to grind, seeds to sow, tortillas to prepare, dirt floors to sweep, water to fetch, babies to carry & keep healthy. We attended to dental abscesses, rotted teeth, smiles filled with blackened cavities, headaches, backaches, stomach pain, eye damage (from sun & dust), blurry vision, to name a few maladies. Others were a bit tougher: a leg so infected, a little boy couldn't walk, a man with severe flesh burns & holes due to electrical wiring malfunction, an verbally & physically abused young lady.hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821302894565307230.post-85165248529830264542011-04-08T20:01:00.000-07:002012-07-23T15:37:13.099-07:00Photos: In Church, Getting Acquainted & Clinic Set-Up Sunday<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U1xglIMwEIk/TZ_NU4NzHWI/AAAAAAAAA_k/Ex7-CPW4AJM/s1600/IMG_2766.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U1xglIMwEIk/TZ_NU4NzHWI/AAAAAAAAA_k/Ex7-CPW4AJM/s200/IMG_2766.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593415020788784482" /></a>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4aClVdHxF8/TZ_NUkAQ4fI/AAAAAAAAA_c/kdhbyjNS51U/s1600/IMG_2612.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4aClVdHxF8/TZ_NUkAQ4fI/AAAAAAAAA_c/kdhbyjNS51U/s200/IMG_2612.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593415015363305970" /></a><br />Paula reads Spanish books to the children; Upon arrival volunteers bring supplies into the clinic.<br><br>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHnE4rILUIo/TZ_NUjFoKgI/AAAAAAAAA_U/D5t0ey4lFso/s1600/IMG_2758.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHnE4rILUIo/TZ_NUjFoKgI/AAAAAAAAA_U/D5t0ey4lFso/s200/IMG_2758.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593415015117367810" /></a><br>
Young men share time together.<br><br>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5869JgqxKt0/TZ_NUYzUqDI/AAAAAAAAA_M/zEvZPDZT0-g/s1600/IMG_2736.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5869JgqxKt0/TZ_NUYzUqDI/AAAAAAAAA_M/zEvZPDZT0-g/s200/IMG_2736.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593415012356237362" /></a>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rxk6p3NuYU4/TZ_NUXT5ZNI/AAAAAAAAA_E/-wfpKoSgOs0/s1600/IMG_2698.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rxk6p3NuYU4/TZ_NUXT5ZNI/AAAAAAAAA_E/-wfpKoSgOs0/s200/IMG_2698.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593415011955991762" /></a><br> Children at church service; children have a special presentation song for us.<br>hey hey paula!http://www.blogger.com/profile/07283786807139290501noreply@blogger.com