Todd Moore Takes APAC!

I Love Big Al's!

2011-08-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

Enough to leave my job at Microsoft!

Indeed, Avid Reader, I resigned from Microsoft a couple of weeks ago, giving 2-Sept as my last day. Inasmuch as the process was a long one (commencing with a gift book in December), now things seem to be a whirlwind: Resigning, house-hunting, rent plan, move plan, home close, project wrap-ups, etc. And what felt like me having a lot of time to make this real is starting to feel the exact opposite. Good times!

All that said, I couldn't be MORE excited that this is becoming real. That I'll be getting back to hospitatlity roots. That I'll be working with a friend who 10 years ago I told I would work with in a heartbeat. That I'll be moving to Vancouver.

Bottom-line, the taking of APAC and of AMES and GAP and EMEA is rapidly coming to a close. What an adventure indeed!

Big Buddy G Takes Seattle!

2011-07-21T17:00:00.000-07:00

Guess Who's TWO

2011-05-05T17:55:00.000-07:00

Indeed, Copper turned TWO today! We celebrated with lots of play time, lots of belly rubs, and Birthday PupCakes! Of course, there are more to be had so she's been following me around the house all night!

2010 As I Saw It.

2011-01-01T11:11:00.000-08:00

Happy New year!
Here's to 2011!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T09:01:00.000-08:00

"Your ankle's messed up."

2010-12-23T11:59:00.000-08:00

That was the official unofficial diagnosis I got from Dr. Henry "Hank" F. Pelto III this past week when I went in to get the MRI results on my left ankle. You may recall my R.I.M. post from back in September; we now have confirmation that it wasn't just any ankle sprain...

1. Bone marrow edema present within the media malleolus and adjacent medial aspect of the talus. Translation: areas of fluid, likely the swelling that's been existent since this all happened.

2. Non-descernible anterior talofibular and calcaneofibular ligaments, consistent with tear. Attenuation of the deep fibers of the deltoid ligament are also consistent with tear / strain. Translation: two major ligaments gone. Completely gone. Not good.

3. Tear of the anterior tibiofibular syndesmotic ligament. Translation: Otherwise known as a "high ankle sprain"... if the ligament was still intact. Here, it's just gone.

4. Longitudinal split tear of the distal posterior tibial tendon. Focal strain of the peroneus brevis tendon just distal to the lateral malleolus. Translation: bad news. With this complete tear, any downward pressure on my foot causes the two bones in my lower leg to separate as this tendon would normally hold them together. I often feel this especially when I bump my heel on a stair step, for example.

So, now the Good News / Bad News Game... Good news... I'm not a wussy! I have been in pain all of these past three months! Bad news... surgery is likely my only option to eliminate pain and to get back to a path where I can do things like... walk across uneven ground... jog... play volleyball... without pain.

It's good to know what's up with the ankle in light of the fact of what I felt when it happened and the pain I face to this day. I asked Hank if I should be pissed at the original doctor who kept telling me it was "just a sprain, probably a pretty good one" and refused to do an MRI. He backed me off the ledge and said the path I've been on to date is a normal one and one he also would have recommended.

That Hank... he's got a way with words!

Aperitivo!

2010-11-12T17:37:00.001-08:00

While I couldn't get many sights in yesterday, I had one of the most wonderful Milanese experiences tonight: the Aperitivo!

You & I might call this phenomenon "Happy Hour", but the key word here is PHENOMENON! It was incredible! Emanuela and I went to Corso Sempione -- near Milan's Peach Arch (Arco della Pace) -- and one of her favorite Aperitivos. Ultimately, it was a super chic, well-designed bar (seriously! awesome design; you should have seen the basement bathrooms!), sit down, order (and pay) for a beverage, then take advantage of a HUGE buffet!

We might be pupu at home; maybe even a basket of nachos and salsa at a Mexican restaurant. Here, you might pay a bit more for the drink (a whopping 7 Euros each... or $9.75, including tax & gratuity!), and the food was incredible! Pastas, cous cous, sausages, skewers, salads, potato wedges, gnocci! I ultimately had two drinks and two rounds of full plates. Dinner, friends, was served! And in an oh so Milanese way!

Milan. Well, I tried!

2010-11-07T08:15:00.000-08:00

Buongiorno from Milan! This trip wouldn't be this trip without yet another flight and a continued swollen ankle. This time, I find myself in Italia!

After checking in to the hotel, I took a chance with the weather and headed out -- sans umbrella, mind you -- on the Milan subway to try to find Santa Maria delle Grazie and visit one of the most famous (& controversial) works of art in the world, Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Summer'.

Unfortunately, by the time I arrived (~3PM), they were sold out of tickets for the afternoon. Keep in mind that after 21 years of restoration and in a hope to keep this masterpiece around for... ever... they allow only 25 visitors every 15 minutes. Alas that I did not get in, but was OH SO close! I'll plan better next go!

Oh, and when I walk by the umbrellas available for use in the hotel lobby, I'll take one. Hello DRENCHED!

Lazy Saturday

2010-11-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day in well over two weeks that I had no obligation. No plane to catch. No job to get to. No schedule to keep. And I so needed it.

After work last night, I ventured out to East Putney to enjoy dinner with my dear friends Brian, Kirsten & Tess Hennigan (the latter whose first birthday is in two weeks!). I made it home late and slept in this morning even later. HEAVEN.

I enjoyed a super slow morning here at the hotel, then enjoyed a trek to the mayhem that is Borough Market, one of the largest food markets in the world. I must tell you, Avid Reader, even as one of the largest, it still wasn't large enough as it was PACKED. One could argue that the masses of people were my worst nightmare, but the sights and smells and stalls were incredible and I enjoyed nearly every moment.

Later, Brian Hennigan arrived with Tess and we enjoyed a pint at The Market Porter before heading to nearby to The George Inn for more beverages with some of his friends. Oh, and it just happens to have been serving the local community for the past three... HUNDRED... years. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! Anyhoo, Brian had to head home to get Tess to nap, and I ultimately ended up hanging out a bit longer, enjoying laughs with his buddies Mark and Frank. A good time altogether!

And now I'm back at the hotel, packing up for tomorrow's obligation: my flight to Milan for two days of work in our Italy office. My journey is coming to a quick conclusion... and I'm home to Copperlicious soon!

There and Back Again

2010-11-05T03:47:00.000-07:00

I spent an oh so quick 29 hours in Paris this week. The EuroStar train arrived at 11:30AM on Wednesday and I was back at Gare du Nord train station by 4:30 on Thursday. Though planned that way, I regret not getting more time. My colleague Emanuela said it best: 'Paris just seems like one of those cities that take over your heart.' Amen to that.

So, bonjour, Paris!
Et au revoir trop vite.

Hallo, Land o'Scots!

2010-11-03T03:20:00.000-07:00

If you've been following along, Avid Reader, it should come as no surprise that I WENT TO SCOTLAND! I had long talked about having a Scottish adventure -- at least one outside of London -- and finally made it happen! I booked a flight Friday after work and flew to Aberdeen! And what an adventure it was!

You see, I have an old friend (see previous post!) who I knew was living somewhere in Scotland. With my mad online skillz, I did a quick search and discovered that Matt is the pastor at the Methlick Parish Church in Aberdeenshire. So I said to myself, "Self, why not? Methlick, here I come!"!

Though yet another flight, it was an easy one and I was quickly in the oil capital of Europe, Aberdeen. I bonded with Alex the AVIS guy and he upgraded me to a BMW 120d Diesel -- which became my new best friend. Granted, it was a friend I had to spend time getting to know as the driver's side was on the RIGHT side of the car! I definitely spend a lot of time reminding myself to drive on the left and after a while, definitely got the hang of it. Of course, forgetting to reach over my right shoulder for the seat belt was always my first reminder! And oddly, I couldn't seem to use the rear-view mirror and always wanted to look over my right shoulder to go in reverse. Needless to say, I bought the insurance, but never needed it! Definitely a success! But I digress...

With the only plan being to go to church on Sunday to see Matt preach and knowing I'd see him there, I opted for a dry run to Methlick quickly after I checked in to my hotel. It was no more than 1/2 hour to Methlick on nice, but definitely country roads... over rolling hills with lots of cows and sheep and fall colors galore. In short, it was stunning and exactly what I would have expected in the UK outside of the city. That said, getting to know the signs took some time and speed limits are rarely posted (understood to be 60mph). Before I knew it, however, I was in Methlick there was the church from the website! I made it! Dry run a success!

Pressing my luck, I parked at the church as I noticed some cars and an open door. I was warmly greeted by a dear Scottish grandma who told me that Matt & Julie were probably at home, then quickly got back to her knitting & natting. Of course she just told me they're "home". And by home, it could mean anywhere... in the SHIRE! But back to the adventure, I wandered up & down the town's road and was quickly called in to the town restaurant -- the Ythanview Hotel -- where a Scottish ale was calling my name. Jay Allen, the owner, served me an Avalanche Ale as well as his mean and "hot" curry -- both of which were delicious. Of course, after ordering and upon serving me the beer, he had to ask:

"So, what brings you here?"
"Well, I'm here to go to church, actually."
"I thought you might be a friend of Matt's."

After enjoying lunch and my delicious beer, Jay points down the road... follow that car... THERE!... turn right and he's the first house on the right. And done! All of three minutes later, I'm turning up the hill, into the sun, and a shadow passes the street in front of me. I wave.

"Hello?", the shadow responds, kindly, but unfamiliarly.
"I'm here to see you, actually," I say.
"Oh?"
"Hi Matt. It's Todd Moore."
"Todd Moo--? Todd Moore!"

It's a moment for the movies really. I can totally picture it in dramatic black & white, but instead it was in living color with the sun in my eyes and a old friend from a place and time far away in his. In all honesty, I think the moment -- and the next 15 minutes -- caught us both off-guard, even though I had quite the head start on it even happening to begin with.

Matt & I were able to catch up over tea in his kitchen for nearly an hour when his wonderful wife Julie (another friend from college) arrived home with three of their four kids: Chapman, Iona, and Amy Kate. Julie had much the same -- but even more dramatic -- realization of my presence and we fell easily into catch-up mode before their worlds became a flurry of activity around the kids and dinner plans and more.

Soon, it was time to leave them to their regular programming and I set off on Scottish adventures with my 120d, as if my mission had been accomplished. Oh, but it was only beginning...!

First stop? Cows! I pulled the "Hey Cow" trick learned from dear friends John & Amy. These ones just looked at me like I was some cuckoo American making noise. Like it's a different language... Stupid cows.

Second stop? Some crazy awesome church with an amazing cemetary in the front and behind. I can't tell you how many times I'd just be driving along and BAM! Amazing scenery or church or cemetary or animal or moment would just pop into view. It was a drive through some of the most amazing views at every turn. Amazing.

Third stop? Fyvie Castle! I'm actually convinced, Avid Reader, that somehow I need to own a castle. And have Victorian parties every weekend with merry-making and live music and masquerede masks and drama and mystery. If anyone is reading this who owns a castle and is looking to give it away to an amazingly organized, resourceful, and host-happy American, I am totally game. Let's talk! Point being, I could see myself living in and caring for a castle. From the gardening & landscaping (of course, I would outsource) to hosting and entertaining (in period costume, of course), I'd be the most amazing caretaker. I had a ball completely on my own at Fyvie taking timed photographs and making a general scene on the front lawn. In other words, I acted like I owned the joint. And just may someday!

All in all, it was a pretty awesome adventure as I headed back in to Aberdeen from Methlick. I found the town. I enjoyed a draught Scottish ale, some home-cooked curry from the hotel proprietor, a chance run-in with an old friend who I hadn't seen since 1996 nor talked to since 1998, met some judgmental cows, took some amazing photos, and pretended to own a castle. Point being, I crashed at my hotel within 5mins of keying in.

And given, Avid Reader, that I was O.U.T. out by 8PM (no joke!), I was wide awake at 4AM wondering what the day was going to bring. Futile attempts to fall back to sleep and realizing that my time in Scotland was limited, I opted to check out and hit the road with my trusted new BFF, the 120d. We drove into Aberdeen proper to check out the Brig o'Balgownie, as well as one of the oldest medieval churches in Scotland, the Cathedral Chuch of St. Machar.

Turns out, daylight savings had gone into effect while I was sleeping, so my 6AM arrival at the unlit bridge was actually only 5AM and it was PITCH BLACK. No bridge could be seen in the dark of night, so off to St. Machar I went. Word to the wise? Don't go to a medieval church in Scotland surrounded by a 6' stone wall filled in with tombstones and graves in the middle of the night. I kid you not, I was scared out of my wits!! However, being totally man-style, I thought to myself, "Self, the sun will come up soon enough and I'm sure will make for lovely photos". Another word to the wise... the sun doesn't come up in Scotland after daylight savings time has hit until well past half seven (7:30, UK style).

Thankful for a GPS, I tourned around Aberdeen for quite a while longer, learned that coffee shops -- there were two Starbucks' -- didn't open until 10AM, but McDonald's also made its global presence and its McCafe felt in a big way. I watched the sun come up over all kinds of spires and church towers and enjoyed a quiet morning in an amazing city. It felt like it was just me (& Ronald McDonald) and the street cleaners out, everyone trying to recover from a most amazing night before Halloween. Yes, in other words, the streets were litter central! :)

Back to daylight savings time and me still not actually knowing however, I hopped back in my trusted BMW and made my way out of the city and towards Methlick knowing that church was to begin at 11AM and there were most castles for me to discover.

First, I checked out Haddo House, a most stately manor with an incredible garden. Again, I thought of all of the awesome fetes I could host and biscuits I could serve in the stunning gardens. Sadly, I must tell you that these are places I could not bring my dad. Avid Reader, the grounds are literally spotted with pheasant and quail and all kinds of other hunter's treasure. Yes, dear Mike would THRIVE in Scotland, but I wouldn't with all of the gun shot clatter!

Next, I was able to check out Tolquhon Castle -- ruins really, but amazing nonetheless. There were a couple of more serious impressions here:

1. Were people really so short? Seriously, I had to duck to go through any door.
2. I couldn't believe I got to walk all over this place! How awesome is that?!
3. What happened? I mean, I get that the place has been around for hundreds of years, but seriously, what happened?
4. How in the world did one stay warm in places like this? There were chimneys & drain holes everywhere and we're talking stone walls. Talk to me about insulation.
5. What was life like? I mean, seriously, what was life like in Scotland in 1322? I've seen it captured on film, but seriously. Have you ever wondered?

And of course, in all my wonderment, I quickly realized that even though I had discovered an additional hour, I was going to be late for church! No! Fortunately, my BFF, the 120d, raced me quickly through back roads and I entered the Methlick Parish Church a full two minutes before things got started!

Matt was amazing -- he always was an awesome orator. And I found myself chuckling at how easily this man, this preacher, became the same person I knew in college. All this time had passed, yet none at all relative to watching him engage and hearing his voice. It was pretty incredible. There's a saying that one can't judge one's own age, but only can do in the age of one's children. This has to be true since I don't have kids, since I haven't aged a day (save the follical challenges) and since I saw Matt as my college roommate all over again.

After church, I was invited to lunch at the Manse (the parsonage, we might call it) and got to spend more time with Matt in his study, then with his kids, playing games in the backyard. I also helped in the mayhem of getting them ready for trick-or-treating while also helping Matt with a welcoming bonfire and over more conversation. The day felt like it could have been at any time and at any place in its normalcy. But the weekend itself started from a place of pure adventure and ended in a place where I know I just might not ever see my friend again.

But having gotten the snapshot, having had a much-needed conversation, having met and played with his kids -- the ones he now has, but didn't when he told me on a Seattle Metro bus he would be excited for them to meet Uncle Todd -- and to having gone on the adventure when it probably cost a little too much, made me a little too tired, and seemed a little crazy, I feel whole and complete and touched.

And thankful you made it this far. Thank you, Avid Reader, for helping me make any of these adventures real just by me getting to share them with you. Your readership is a gift to me, you have no idea.

Hall of Fame Moment

2010-11-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

While I haven't yet posted a good recap of the trip itself, I had contacted our hometown newspaper prior to our trip to ask them if it was something worth covering. The Editor jumped at the chance, assigned Dick Mason -- who knew my family well -- to the story, and published this article. I'm unclear if the article itself included any photos, so any below are those that I added. Enjoy!

Written by Dick Mason
The Observer
November 02, 2010

The question gave Mike Moore, La Grande High School’s head boys basketball coach from 1980 to 1984, reason to pause. "I have to take a deep breath, it was a touching moment," Moore said.

Moore had just been asked about what it was like the moment he and his wife, Linda, received the most memorable of anniversary gifts. One that allowed the couple to again celebrate the legacy of their daughter Laura, perhaps the greatest girls basketball player in La Grande High School history.

Earlier this fall Laura’s parents were in Chicago celebrating their 41st anniversary with sons Todd and Kevin. They were planning to soon make return trips to their homes in the Northwest when Todd suddenly changed their travel itineraries — altering their schedule in storybook fashion.

Todd presented his parents and brother Kevin with tickets for a flight to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass. The Naismith Hall of Fame has enormous meaning to the Moore family because Laura’s name is listed in it. She won the national Elks Hoop Shoot in the age 8-9 girls division three decades ago.

Upon receiving the tickets to Springfield, Mike and Linda Moore, who live in Boise, received a bonus. They learned Laura would be flying into Springfield to meet them at the hall of fame. An unforgettable family trip now awaited the Moores.

"This had been on my bucket list," said Mike, who is retired.

The moment Mike and Linda learned of the trip, they were heightened emotionally by the unofficial boarding passes Todd presented them. Each had a photo of Laura with her parents and a basketball. The photo had appeared in The Observer three decades ago.

When the family arrived at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame a few days later their emotions were in check. The family was set to enjoy one of the most memorable of experiences. It was an experience enhanced by members of the staff at the hall of fame.

"They were so excited when they learned that a hall of famer was present. They were really buzzing," Todd said.

The staff bent over backward to make the Moores feel welcome after learning about Laura. "They gave us the gold treatment," Mike said.

People left their offices throughout the building to greet Laura and her family.

The Moores had no trouble finding the Elks Hoop Shoot plaque upon which Laura’s name is engraved. It is in a prominent portion of the hall, one next to a major Michael Jordan display.

Seeing the Elks Hoop Shoot plaque likely triggered a flood of sentimental memories for Laura because winning the title was a family affair. Her parents and brothers were with her in Indianapolis three decades ago when she won the crown.

Laura later placed second at the Elks Hoop Shoot in her age division as a 13-year-old.

Her hoop shoot achievements were the start of a decorated career. Moore made Oregon’s all-state team each of the three years she played for LHS. She transferred to Pendleton her senior year after her father accepted a job there as assistant principal of Pendleton High School. Laura made the all-state team a fourth-time in 1989 during her senior year at Pendleton High.

Laura was such a standout at Pendleton that after graduating her number, 22, was retired by the high school.

A deadly three-point shooter blessed with uncommon basketball instincts, Laura was heavily recruited almost from the start of her high school career. Much of the mail she received from universities wooing her was sent to LHS. A school official at the time said it seemed that Moore received more mail at LHS during her junior year than the rest of the school combined.

Laura eventually accepted a scholarship from the University of Washington, where she enjoyed a successful four-year career. She helped the Huskies make the NCAA tournament three times and was a starter her junior and senior years.

Today Laura, 39, lives in Beaverton where she is the owner of Express Professionals, a temporary hiring company. She has nothing but fond memories of her years growing up in La Grande. "I wouldn’t change anything," she said of her La Grande experiences.

The national Elks Hoop Shoot Moore won in Indianapolis three decades ago is today conducted at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. The competition is on its "Court of Dreams." The floor is one visitors can play on and a court the Moore family conducted a free throw contest on. Laura, who had not played basketball in about a year, won it, making 30 of 35 free throws to edge her father by one.

Mike, like his daughter, has a sterling resume as a hoopster. He played at EOU about four decades ago. The 1969-70 team he played for is in Eastern’s athletic hall of fame. Mike, who graduated from Eastern in 1970, has fond memories of La Grande. "It is a very special place," he said.

The chance to play basketball with his family on the Court of Dreams will long remain a highlight of the family’s visit to Springfield in the mind of Todd. "It was youthful joy. We (he and his brother and sister) were like kids growing up again," said Todd, who lives in Seattle.

Today Mike, when reflecting on the Elks Hoop Shoot title his daughter won, says his daughter did not initially appreciate the magnitude of winning the Elks Hoop Shoot.

"I don’t think Laura knew the significance of it. She was just a happy-go-lucky kid," Mike said. "Who knew that years later her name would be in the Hall of Fame?"

Be slow in choosing a friend, but slower in changing him. -- Scottish proverb

2010-11-01T13:08:00.000-07:00

I'll post details of my adventure to Scotland in a bit, but the adventure wouldn't have been so without the hope of seeing an old friend, Matt Canlis.

I got to peek in to his world, meet & play with his four kids (Chapman, Madelyne, Iona, Amy Kate), break bread with his family, and just BE a part of his life for a short spell -- and share my story since with my old, valued friend.

Matt & I hadn't spoken in a good 15 years, Avid Reader. And I can't tell you how good it feels that we did.

Oh, The Places You'll Go (but May Not Necessarily See)...

2010-10-29T14:14:00.000-07:00

You'd think I'm some kind of gigolo given that I haven't slept in the same bed twice since Friday night of last week, but that is my life of late, Avid Reader. I'm actually enjoying the thought of sleeping in the same bed for the second night in a row tonight, but will quickly break the string with a venture to Scotland this weekend! WOO HOO!

I've taken a whole of seven photos on this trip -- four of which were of my awesome bathroom in Hamburg, two of the view of "Munich" from my hotel window, and one of my massively swollen ankle from the long day of travel from Seatle. But instead of rue the fact I do not have photos, I'll post those kindly taken by others of the places I've been to, but did not really experience, save the Microsoft offices and airports.

Munich

Such stunning fall colors! The office was due East of the airport and the charming town was due West. Unfortunately, the hotel was near to the office as well. But amazing airport altogether! And I enjoyed a whopper of a beer in the hotel bar with my colleague Emanuela before nearly face-first crashing into my German burger at 8PM! Fun story though... we had to push our way past some security stantions to get in to the hotel after our time in the office... turns out, FC Bayern Munchen stays at the Dolce as well. We had brushes with internationally reknowned futball stars. They didn't recognize me.

Hamburg

Dark & rainy on arrival, but another awesome airport! The Germans do aviation right, I tell you! Amazing bathroom at Le Royal Meridien Hamburg; you know I love a great bath and this tub provided just that! I was able to see some sights on the way to the office in the cab, including a charming lake surrounded by cathedral spires. I saw enough to know I didn't see enough. I can now cross the train station (1995) and a few roads off my list, but add Hamburg as a whole to that which I want to experience in the future!

London

London feels like home. I "commuted" again this morning through Green Park, in front of Buckingham Palace, and past the same security guard who always greets me at the Cardinal Place office. And, oh, look, there's Westminster Cathedral again right outside the office window. And pints before lunch did you say? Count me in! It's good to be "home".

Art Patron

2010-10-19T10:19:00.000-07:00

Avid Reader, I've recently been introduced to a wonderful artist from whom I purchased two INCREDIBLE art pieces!

I first noticed Fran Holt's work at my friends' John & Amy Weaver's Belltown condo. There were two pieces in which I fell in love... Turns out, John & Amy had big news for me that night: that they had purchased one of her pieces! In turn, I also reached out to Fran and ended up buying two pieces for my home as well.

One of the things I've decided is that I want to be a more avid supporter of the arts -- both in terms of performance art as well as art for my own home. While aspirational, I've now had the chance to buy art from two local artists and now Fran's work is also in my master bedroom as well as gracing my stairwell (above). I couldn't be more pleased and wanted to ensure you know Fran Holt, too!

Bucket List

2010-09-26T14:46:00.000-07:00

OK, so not my own necessarily, but this weekend has been all about my parents' Bucket List. What a weekend it's been so far and what a weekend it will turn out to be.

I'm hoping to catch Laura & Kevin downstairs in the hotel bar, so can't chat long, Avid Reader, but wanted to leave you with a handful of images of our weekend so far, which included a trip to South Bend to catch the Fighting Irish in Notre Dame Stadium (where I was secretly rooting for the Pac-10's Stanford) and an Airport Shocker where Kevin & I revealed our true raison du voyage: a surprise trip to Boston to meet Laura and take in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Needless to say, we're well on our way to checking the Top Two from my Mom & Dad's Bucket List. Enjoy!

R.I.M.

2010-09-21T21:54:00.000-07:00

Avid Reader, I have bum news: a bum ankle. I've had plenty in my day, but this is one that had me writhing on the floor -- shouting who knows what -- and thinking that I either broke my ankle or tore every ligament in it.

The good news is x-rays confirmed no fracture; the bad news is that there's still significant swelling, more and more blood, and consistent pain. Should pain still exist next week, I'll have to go in for an MRI to determine the extent of damage and an renewed management plan. Good times! The worse news is that I'm heading East for an incredible family adventure this weekend with my parents... and I'm a gimp!

So, I'm actively treating my RIM with RICE!

2010-09-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

College football is upon us -- and so too is my Husky Spirit! I had the chance to get to the UW game vs. Nebraska (unfortunate result -- don't ask). That said, it was a stunning day on Montlake, tailgating was a kick in the pants, and Husky football is in full swing again! It's always a great day to be a Husky (especially on sunny days!)!

p.s. Jake for President!

Vegas Wedding!

2010-08-29T12:07:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to head to Las Vegas for the nuptials of... MY OWN SISTER! Indeed, Avid Reader, Laura Moore is MARRIED!

I previously posted that Laura was engaged. And at my cousin Christine's wedding, Laura & I had the following conversation:

"Todd, we're eloping. August 28th. In Las Vegas. Get it on your calendar."
"Eloping? You're not eloping if you give me the date and location of your wedding."
"Yes, we are. We're eloping. To Vegas."
"Laura, if I'm invited, you're not eloping."
"It's in Vegas, so we're eloping."
"Um, are you already married?"
"No."
"Will you be married before August 28th?"
"No. That's when we're getting married."
"Then, you haven't eloped nor will you be eloping. And if people are invited, it's considered a destination wedding."
"No, it's not. We're eloping. Todd, it's in Vegas!"
"OK."

So, officially, I went to my sister's elopement! WOO HOO! And Laura Moore is officially married!

It was a charming ceremony at a little place that specializes in these things -- complete with an upstairs chapel that felt like any chapel in any other city in the world. It was awesome to be there -- along with lots of family and a handful of friends. It was touching and calm and real... oh, and at 10:30PM. :) In other words, it was just what it needed to be and now I have a brother-in-law (and a new niece & two nephews) to call family!

Congratulations, Sister.
You mean the world to me.

Take Your Dog to Work Day

2010-08-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

Copper decided she'd had it with going to daycare or staying at home during the day and up & declared it 'Take Your Dog to Work Day'!

She was very productive; I was impressed. She jumped in and tackled a Revenue Concentration Analysis, helped to manage the Auto-Test pilot in Australia, Germany and Other Latin America, and ensured she balanced heads-down desk time with plenty of socialization with others Business Group . Needless to say, she was a complete hit -- and SO GOOD all day long.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Of course, the reality is that she was BANNED from daycare as she was snotty and had developed a cough... turns out she had a dreaded Upper Respiratory Infection (otherwise known as Infectious Tracheobronchitis... Kennel Cough!). Because of the ban and because I didn't have time to rush her home, she enjoyed a day at Microsoft! And, Avid Reader, she was amazing... she hung out in a colleague's office for 1/2 of the day, and under my desk for the other 1/2. This dog is amazing; I'm more in love with her every day!

6-Sept Update: Copper is wonderfully over her cold... thanks in large part to lots of rest, antibiotics, and care from John & Amy Weaver while I was in Las Vegas for my sister's wedding. She's already been back to daycare... The Barking Lounge folks were ecstatic as now she can wear out the other doggies again!

A VMAC Haiku

2010-08-23T12:06:00.000-07:00

Charity Event
At the Seahawks Headquarters.
Hello John Weaver!

A Toast to the Roseboroughs!

2010-08-22T12:06:00.000-07:00

You may already know my friend Michelle, Avid Reader. I've previously written about her here. First, it was as she fought cancer head-on. Then, it was as my awesome travel companion to Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore. And, it was as part of The Most Amazing Vacation Of All Time. Now, another adventure to report: Michelle got herself (kinda) hitched! MJ & Saskia and I carpooled to Portland for Michelle & Joe's stunning wedding at the World Forestry Center near the Portland Zoo. It was a touching ceremony altogether as they exchanged vows in front of family & friends.

I say 'kinda' hitched as I enjoy giving Michelle a hard time about what this really was -- a chance for her to party! :) See, Michelle & Joe got married last fall as Michelle had accepted a position in our Hong Kong office. Joe couldn't go unless they were legally married. Ever the problem solver, Michelle hauled Joe to the courthouse. The move ultimately never happened, but here was Michelle -- with husband -- but without a ceremony nor a wedding band.

Again, problem solver, she up & got herself married proper! Michelle went the whole nine yards and planned a stunning wedding and hosted an incredible celebration. And while she went the nine... I would gladly give her a full football field. She's more than an incredible human being who's more than earned it.

Congratulations Michelle & Joe!
You are incredible. And incredible together.

Runge's G.A.P.

2010-08-20T09:07:00.000-07:00

It was a sad occasion marked by the happiest of festivities: the "Retirement" of Jason Runge!

Jason was one of the first folks we hired at DRIVEpm as we started to scale our business long before the Microsoft acquisition. I worked directly with Jason prior to moving out to NYC, then in concert with him while there. Inasmuch as I might consider myself a key member of the business, Jason became foundational -- a self-confessed member of the Dream Team.

So, we gathered the troops from near and far and enjoyed a long night of catch-up, bonding, beverages, and celebration at the likes of Slim's Last Chance Chili Shack & Watering Hole, Sea Sound Lounge, Lava Lounge, and later at some Hi-99 casino. Yes, it was in Jason's honor, but it also felt very much like a reunion -- where everyone truly liked and cared for one another. And out of which we built an amazing company. The combination of when we launched, with whom we worked, how well we worked together, and the successes we enjoyed will be something I know I'll be hard-pressed to experience again in my career. But I wish it on everyone as it was fantastic.

As was working with Sir Runge. You will be missed, friend!

I Love Big Al's!

2010-08-15T18:16:00.000-07:00

I got to support my dear friend Daniel Kirkwood as he opened his second Big Al's in Beaverton over the weekend! Big Al's is an amazing bowling alley | sports bar | arcade that Dan owns along with his parents, Al & Sandy Kirkwood. Whenever I've had the chance, I've also stopped by Big Al's in Vancouver, and now he's opened a second location right in my sister's & uncle's backyard!

The third of three special openings, Jud and I got to enjoy a free evening of food & bowling. Avid Reader, it is a SIGHT TO SEE! From the HUGE HD projector televisions to the amazing SkyBox to the private bar with Wii Lounge and Virtual Golf Course, I was thrilled A) to be there and B) knowing it's my buddy's place!

Dan was always one to impress -- though never really knowing it. Here he's done it again -- and in a Big (Al's!) way! Congratulations, Friend!

~ Pause ~

2010-08-02T23:44:00.000-07:00

Rejoice in nature's gifts.

This was the message Alaska has left with me after an incredible long weekend in Sitka with my dear friend, Colette Nelson. This trip was a gift. Of clarity. Of nature's beauty. Of joy. And of friendship.

Instead of a prose rendition of my time in Sitka, I'll go Happy Thoughts* on you and share the things that made me smile this weekend and cause me to pause now to rejoice in the gifts:

Smelling Alaska air. Seeing my friend. Colette shouting in an crowded airport. Meeting Hannah. Enjoying small town dramas. Helping to set up Ludvig's. "Deadliest Catch"-ing it on a working (and full!) fishing boat. Dive bar Ernie's for frosty cold ones with Hannah. 'I Gotta Feelin' on the jukebox. Dinner at Ludvig's. After party in the restaurant & upstairs with Colette, Hannah, Scott, Clint, Jen & Nikki. Sleeping in & slow mornings. Hike in the rain. Waterfalls in the forest. Hanging out with Jason Shaffer. Working at Ludvig's! Serving the Bartell family & Dr. Keller. P-Bar. More jukebox selections. After party back @ Colette's with Nikki, John, Colette, Hannah, Dana & Brian. Really sleeping in! Walks through Sitka. Two chicks' burgers. More hiking. More waterfalls -- this time with photos. Colette just whipping dinner together. Slow nights in. Hannah playing guitar right now. Feeling a world away. Knowing a Copper Reunion is right around the corner.

I'm pausing now and rejoicing. What a great weekend.

Happy BIRTHday, Trey Paulson!

2010-07-29T19:33:00.000-07:00

Jesse & Steph Paulson welcomed the newest addition to their family today: Trey Ronald Paulson! Born just before 10AM this morning, weighing in at 8lbs, 10oz, and joining Big Brother Jace, Trey impressed us all with his gentle cooing and amazing demeanor. I think he was ready! And/or -- as most kids are -- ready for some down time after his "I'm on the outside! I'm on the oustide!" shocker.

Needless to say, WELCOME TREY! I couldn't be more honored to get to be a part of your life!

Cu3PO

2010-07-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

Please don't ask me why I can't seem to get this to post right-side up! But enjoy Copper doing her best Robot imitation on the eve of the JWI!

Happy Anniversary!

2010-07-18T09:14:00.000-07:00

Today marks the one year anniversary of Todd & Copper!

Since I've gotten home, I've chosen to spend as much time with my little girl as possible, including games of chase around the dining room table, the paw-grabbing game, lounging in the sun on the patio, and giving loves. We've also been spending a lot of time at GreenLake; Copper loves making new friends and trying to catch the gentle waves that hit the shoreline.

It's amazing how time flies and the chapters written that add to our collective story. Mine with Copper this past year has been one of the best of my story. I couldn't be more lucky to have such an amazing companion & friend. Happy Anniversary, Copperlicious!

King of the World

2010-07-15T23:34:00.000-07:00

Good morning, Avid Reader.

It's early Friday morning and I'm sitting in an empty Microsoft office with thoughts of the two weeks swirling in my head as I try to think through how to summarize my time here. In as quickly as my trip is coming to a close and in as many things as I need to tie up before I leave the office (4hr countdown!), I'm so very content and still -- a most comforting paradox.

I credit my morning routine: what might be the world's best commute. The photos below are those I took this morning as I strolled through Green Park and her massive trees, by what I'm convinced is The Lamp Post that inspired C.S.Lewis' first glimpse of the magical kingdom of Narnia, and past a desolate -- and even so much more regal because of it -- Buckingham Palace plaza. The Queen of England lives here, you say? Pu-SHAW! I am the King of the World! At least I was on my commute this morning.

Oh, London, my London.
I will miss you so.
*sigh*

Local

2010-07-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

My London weekend honestly felt like I weekend here in London every Saturday & Sunday; London is starting to feel like a second skin. She's familiar in a way that I spoke of Paris a few months ago. She gets me. And I think I'm starting to figure her out too.

It was a wonderful Hennigan weekend in that I got to spend a lot of time with my buddy Brian and his 8-month old daugther, Tess. Brian's wife Kristen was away for a weekend "hen-do" (bachelorette party for those logging language differences), so he was on his own for the first time and asked for company. Daughter in tow, we had an awesome time both days!

On Saturday, we loaded the pram and hit the South Bank to enjoy the sun, waterfront, and people watching. Will I confess to stops @ pubs along the way? Oh, yes, I will! Both times, we were able to catch prime spots to check out all of the passers-by... and turns out, for all of them to catch Tess as well! On a historical note, one of the pubs at which we enjoyed a fine frosty beverage was The Anchor. While I was only inside to order a pint, do you see, Avid Reader, the year of construction of this watering hole? That's right... 1615. For those keeping score at home, that's a full 161 years before our country was even founded! One has to appreciate a 400-year-old speakeasy. Oh, if walls could talk!

Sunday was a bit more of the same. And if by that I mean more time with Brian & Tess, more sunshine, more waterfront and more adult beverages, then, of course!

After bolting from Picadilly and the mayhem that was the Asics 10K Fun Run, we loaded up the pram from the Hennigans and ventured out to Richmond -- also on the Thames -- to enjoy a pace even a bit more slow (if you consider that I fell asleep while Tess was getting her evening bath and Brian konked out during the World Cup semifinal match, then Sunday was VERY slow... and awesome). It's amazing what one can accomlish when you set out the following objective for the day: Enjoy German food & beer. :)

After enjoying time on the riverwalk, we arrived at our destination: Stein's. Otherwise known as Sausage Heaven! We ordered up a platter of sausages & cheeses, enjoyed several steins of delicious nectar of the German gods, and did more people watching. Of course, Tess was yet again a huge draw and we became friends with various sets of tablemates with whom we shared our afternoon (we were there a while such was the joy of Stein's)!

With mother hen back at the nest from her hen-do, however, Brian & I ventured back to Putney where we got to hear all about the ladies weekend in Brighton and give a play-by-play of Tess' weekend (no one has to know we basically did a pub crawl, right? I love England!). After catching up, I caught the tube back into the city and joined my buddy MattBaker who turns out had just arrived for the week. It was a pleasant surprise for sure as Matt's one of my favorite people on the planet as well as an amazing travel buddy (Ireland 2007). We were able to catch the World Cup final at King's Arms nearby with a wonderfully colorful crowd, not to mention frosty, cold 1664s.

All in all, a most excellent weekend. One that I likely would have had anywhere in the world, it was so "normal". Yet so special in that it included the Hennigans, MattBaker, waterfront strolls in this amazing summer, shared stories old, and memories new that will forever bring a smile to my face.

Ho. Hum. There's Westminster Cathedral...

2010-07-09T15:39:00.000-07:00

Greetings from London!

After my seemingly quick adventure in Paris, I am now in the UK to work here through the end of next week. While the office is an entirely new building, it's literally across the street from Westminster Cathedral, the center of Roman Catholocism in England & Wales. Ho Hum. It's crazy to grab a latte from the in-building espresso stand, then meet with a colleague in the common area, oh, just facing something so grand and important.

Not going to lie, it impresses me every time!

Family Photos II

2010-07-07T23:16:00.001-07:00

Hello Avid Reader! You may recall that my family had taken Family Photos from a previous post -- the photos of which we captured on my camera. Today, I got the link to *some* of the shots from the professional photographer. Enjoy the sneak peek!

2010-07-06T18:01:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update from Paris... great day altogether. I feel awesome about how my presentation went this afternoon and got great feedback from those in attendance as well as my Manager (always a good thing) who actually saw me in action today for the first time. Evangelism of our business is what I do best and I think I nailed it today. Personally and professionally, I am pleased.

After, the entire team ventured to dinner at L'Ile, an awesome, quaint and delicious restaurant near to the office in Issy Les Molineaux. Rocket salad with Parmesan and Jambon. Sauteed swordfish with creamed garlic potatoes. Apricot tarte in fresh raspberry puree. Beaucoup du vin. Needless to say, an awesome dinner in the company of folks from Spain, England, Netherlands, France and Sweden. It was quickly pointed out that I was the lone non-European at the table, but the French were duly impressed with my french and knowledge of existential authors, Loire valley castles and geographic prowess of their country! Again, more of me being pleased.

The night wouldn't have been complete, of course, without a nightcap at which Simon & I joined some of the FR team! All in all, a great day and an awesome night. That said, it's just after 3AM here and while I'm growing tired, it's likely due to the effects of the sleeping pill I popped a bit ago. Jet lag owns me this go. Good times!

Ah, Paris.

2010-07-05T22:43:00.000-07:00

Ho Hum. I think I'll just get up... and... Work. From. PARIS! this morning! WOOT!

Greetings, Avid Reader. Bonjour de Paris! Indeed I arrived in France in one piece last night after a long day of travel & little sleep. My travel day began around 3:30PM in Seattle on Sunday and culminated around 6:30PM in Paris on Monday (10:30AM Monday Seattle time) -- so about 19 hours in transit.

But I am here! And have already enjoyed adult beverages with colleagues and dinner at a nearby French bistro. This morning kicks off the meetings for which I came... and I was able to get a full eight hours of sleep last night. Bring it on, I say! Bring It On!

Happy Birthday, MJ!

2010-07-03T10:57:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Saskia put together a Suprise 40h Birthday Party for her man, Michael Johnson, on Friday. What a hoot! She brought in an awesome photographer (April Brimer) who set up a photo booth to capture much of the mayhem.

Mayhem indeed! Happy Birthday, MJ!

Caught Up!

2010-06-27T18:01:00.000-07:00

Avid Reader, I am officially CAUGHT UP! Yes, it's true, my 6+ week delay of getting posts live is officially over. As previously posted, you may need to dive around a bit to find the latest. Or, you can reference the new posts here and just click away!

Congratulations, Cousin!
Family Photos!
USAV Nationals | Phoenix, AZ
BREAKING NEWS
Parent Week
Birthday Weekend

Enjoy!

Congratulations, Cousin!

2010-06-27T17:48:00.001-07:00

Copper & I ventured to Idaho this past weekend -- not just for Family Photos -- but to celebrate my cousin's wedding!

Christine is the youngest of the Moore cousins and found love and a future in her new husband, Ed Haney. Family & friends alit upon my parents' cabin in Garden Valley for the festivities. It was a stunning wedding in amazing weather with so many important people to our families in attendance.

Congratulations, dear cousin!

Family Photos!

2010-06-21T22:24:00.000-07:00

I'm just back from a long weekend in Idaho where I got to attend my cousin Christine's beautiful cabin wedding in Crouch. As part of the wedding festivities, my family also used the opportunity to get Family Photos! And did we ever!

I also used the opportunity to practice my own photography as well as to teach my niece & nephew how to use my camera as well. It seemed to spark an interest -- especially in Madison -- and I was secretly pleased to see a creative spark!

Suite!

2010-06-07T20:28:00.001-07:00

In honor of Father's Day, my buddy Daniel Kirkwood & his family made their way from Vancouver, WA, to Seattle for an afternoon Mariners game and I got to join! It was a great chance to reconnect with Dan and to see his family again (last time was at Dan's wedding a few years ago). Awesome friend. Awesome family!

Celebrity S(F)ighting!

2010-06-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

Hello Avid Reader! I've now told this story so many times, I'm unsure whether or not to give you the full or abbreviated version. Prose or haiku? Let me just jump in and we'll see what comes out...

Short story: I took Copper to the dog park this weekend and she got ATTACKED!

Long story: Indeed all of this is true. While Copper was running around in heaven at the dog park, a woman and her beautiful Alaskan Malamute neared the park and asked me if my little one was a boxer. Sure is! She said that her dog tends not to like boxers so much, so we agreed to keep an eye on the two of them. After two lunges at Copper, she decided to keep him on a leash while there so he'd at least get some exercise.

Unfortunately, as we both let down our guards, the big male charged Copper when he was off-leash and all hell broke loose as he ran after Copper -- who impressed me with her speed & agility! They ultimately got tangled in a heap of fence and wood chips and other dogs when we were able to get them apart -- brilliantly, no skin was even broken! To try to calm the situation, I held Copper there while the woman held hers such that we could have them close to one another for desensitization (leveraging my minor in Psychology, you see!). After 15-20 mins of idle chatter -- and the dogs getting along swimmingly! -- including the comment that her malamute sure looks like a husky(!), I introduced myself & Copper and shook her hand.

"I'm Jennifer. This is Dubs." I nearly let it go...
"Wait a minute. You mean Dubs as in the UW Husky mascot Dubs?!"
"Yeah, are you a Husky?"
"I sure am! Do you mean to tell me that Copper just got mauled by the UW mascot?!"

Avid Reader, it was BRILLIANT! Of course, brilliant that no one was hurt. And brilliant that we were deploying Psych 101, but also brilliant in that we had a celebrity sighting at the dog park! THE HUSKY MASCOT! SO COOL!

Jennifer & I have since traded emails and have talked about using Copper as (bait) a play partner to work on his boxer issues. I know Copper's game. And I look forward to serving my U in one more important way: mascot training. So...

Short story revisited: I took Copper to the dog park this weekend and she got ATTACKED! By the University of Washington Husky mascot, Dubs! A celebrity sighting! And now they might become best of friends! WOO HOO!

USAV Nationals | Phoenix, AZ

2010-06-03T11:11:00.001-07:00

Another year, another USAV National volleyball tournament under my belt! It was my sixth National tournament; I'm a seasoned veteran!

2004 -- Atlanta
2005 -- Denver
2006 -- New Orleans
2007 -- Austin
2008 -- did not attend
2009 -- Minneapolis
2010 -- Phoenix

As with every other year, it was 100% of a great time with friends old & new, adult beverages galore, and tons of volleyball. I played with a new team -- TOXIC -- this year and was excited to be part of both a solid team and a group of great guys.

Much to the tune of our regular season with dominant & down play -- so too, was our tournament. We didn't fare well in our generally weak pool and ended up 4th heading into tourney play where we met one of our local Seattle teams (out of 72 teams -- are you kidding me?!). While a tight match, It's Business Time emerged victorious in three games and sent us to the 5th best (out of 6 -- boo!) tournament pools.

With a strong showing against our local guys however, we finally found our groove and whooped up on the teams in our tournament to win our bracket. This only meant a 49th place finish, but only 6 teams ended the tourney with a win! We are WINNERS! :)

In addition to getting some serious sun and friend time, the other thing I was most pleased about this year was that I (self-appointedly) made First Team All Heckle! Yep, Avid Reader, I was *that* guy. The drunken yeller from the crowd. Even the starting setters from the Open Championship match heard me from the stands! WOOT!

So, another year, another indoor season, another crack at Nationals. In three short years, I'll be eligible to play in the Master's divisions. While I'd like to keep playing competitively (not that Master's isn't!), it's always a treat to hit the national stage with a strong team and play in front of a host of friends for four straight days. The parties and bonding and time in the sun don't hurt either! Here's to 2011!

BREAKING NEWS

2010-06-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

You're not going to believe it, Avid Reader, but my sister is...

ENGAGED! That's right. Miss Independent Laura Moore is tying the knot. I suppose we all assume to find that special someone at some time in life. And for Laura, the timing just happens to be now! Congrats Laura!

The best part of the story though, is the fact that she's engaged to someone we went to high school with in La Grande, OR! And a guy who we went to grade school with at Riveria Elementary. The world is small, I tell you!

And I also tell you this: I couldn't be more happy for my big sis. And excited to meet this guy after all of these years!

Parent Week

2010-05-27T20:54:00.000-07:00

The Parents are here! The Parents are here!

Indeed, Avid Reader, my parents made the trek to Seattle -- Tucker in tow! -- to spend a few days in Seattle for my birthday and for some good old fashioned parent-kid time!

We enjoyed a Seattle sports double-header while they were here (in addition to a DoubleHeader pre-func, of course!): Seattle Mariners vs. Detroit Tigers and Seattle SoundersFC vs. Boca Juniors!

An afternoon game, we started our day at Safeco Field -- more late than anticipated as the parents ended up in Bothell after taking the wrong-way #41 bus. And yes, if you're asking, I gave -- and wrote down -- explicit instructions on how to navigate the King County Metro system. Also, they'd done it before! Anyhoo... after they finally made it downtown, we enjoyed Club Level seats provided by a friend and watched the M's come from behind for a win! Not that often do we see that in Safeco Field these days!

The parents must have been the lucky charm as later that night, we also enjoyed a Sounders triumph in their friendly against the Juniors by a score of 3-0! My friend Mike Sealy from the UK also joined, so we had a seasoned soccer fan and my futball virgin parents in our foursome. It wasn't the warmest of nights, but it was a hoot altogether and I think my parents gained an appreciation for a sport that just wasn't really a significant part of our world growing up!

In addition to the sports double-header, I also got to show them the city from atop the Smith Tower where I once worked and which was once the fourth tallest building in the world! Needless to say, it was an awesome week having them here and getting to show them my world. I always appreciate that the most!

Mom, Dad, it was awesome to have you here! Tucker, you too! Come back soon! (OK, not *that* soon, but soon!). :o)

Birthday Weekend

2010-05-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

I had a great birthday weekend, Avid Reader. Thanks for asking! You might be wondering what a guy would do for his 37th big one... so let me tell you!

The weekend started off Man-Style with a Friday night pre-func at SportsCard, a local dive sports bar that serves cold pitchers and hosts some of the most colorful crowd on the planet. Beverages in system, Captain in coat, we hit the late showing of 'Iron Man 2' in IMAX and did our own IronMan impressions after. Awesome.

On the big day itself -- May 22 -- I started my birthday off right by getting to meet Brooklyn Nicole Baker... and wore the same sweatshirt (Go Huskies!) I did when I met her older brother Carson over two years ago! It's always a treat to get to see Lindsey, and then I got to spend the afternoon with her hubby MattBaker as we hit the Sounders match with our friends & colleagues Christian Dehart and Nate Tribble! As with all Sounders matches, we pre-func'd at Seattle's DoubleHeader Tavern in Pioneer Square. While the Sounders couldn't pull out a win for my birthday, Matt & Nate and Christian & I celebrated anyway with more time at the DoubleHeader before life beckoned us back to the world of responsibility (i.e. they all have kiddos!).

You might wonder how a birthday could get any better, but it did! After the match and some quality time with Copper, I met John & Amy Weaver and the Paulsons at my new favorite pizza joint: Turnpike Pizza at Green Lake. Hello Meatball Parmesan deliciousness! The Weavers got me a sweatshirt to compliment what will be an awesome summer tan as well as... um... a handerchief to assist with any robberies I might attempt this next year. :)

I will say this as I continue on this journey that is life... I'm not as well kept-up as I used to be, but the skin I'm in keeps getting stronger and I keep getting more comfortable in it. Best? My story keeps getting more colorful the more milestones I pass.

Avid Reader, I sure am thankful for the road on which I get to travel!

Copper is ONE!

2010-05-05T20:43:00.000-07:00

On 5-May, we celebrated Copper's 1st birthday with a party in honor of one of her most endearing qualities -- her gas. "Stinko de Mayo" was a huge hit and I couldn't be more thankful for the Copper Fans who made her milestone such an awesome one! In fact, I couldn't be more thankful for my "village"... who has made me able to have such a wonderful companion in light of my work/travel schedule. Thank you, Friends!

Happy Birthday, Copper!

USD EUR GBP -- What'll it Be?

2010-05-02T09:04:00.000-07:00

Greetings, Avid Reader! I have officially returned from a Quick Week abroad for work. I was just discusssing the week with a colleague and we decided that trying to track time overseas is pointless as the time moves both so quickly and oh so slowly in concert. Don't ask me how; I've simply decided to hit the "I Believe" button on it.

Point being, I no sooner landed in Paris then was on a train to London then on a flight home. Depart Seattle Sunday. Arrive Paris Monday. Arrive London Thursday. Arrive Seattle Saturday. It's a never-ending game of 'What Will this Hotel Room be Like?'. Needless to say, it was a fast week and a great week in two of the greatest cities on the planet, Paris & London. So as not to give a play-by-play, some highlights:

+ Being asked by MSFT colleagues to mentor (Debbi) and to presentation train (Jesse). Always honoring.
+ Bread! Bread! Bread! How I love me a french boulangerie.
+ The little differences. Like "C" & "F" instead of Hot (chaud) & Cold (froid).
+ Dinner in the Louvre Courtyard. Cafe Marly was awesome.
+ The biggest beer EVER at Le Castel with work colleagues from around the world.
+ But nothing beats an English Pub after hours. Save beers with a dear friend in said drinking hole. Thank you, Plumber's Arms & Brian Hennigan!

"Avec ceci?"

2010-04-26T10:29:00.000-07:00

Avid Reader, my travels have brought me back to one of my favorite places in the world: Paris. There's just something about this city that's familiar and grounding and comfortable and charming. It amazes me that in my youth I was always so nervous to come here, but now it feels oddly like a second home. I feel like I know Paris. Understand her.

Sadly, I cannot claim to have had an amazing day of adventure, though realize that just being here is. For example, after checking in, I thought to myself, "Self, wouldn't it be lovely to enjoy jambon fromage in the sun in a beautiful park somewhere enjoying the sights of Paris?". Then made it happen! The hotel isn't three blocks from Champs de Mars, so my light therapy was watching people (this DS-playing trio was a HOOT!) and enjoying what might be the best food on the planet in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower.

All in all, not a bad day, eh? People ask me a lot about my work and my travels and I find myself saying 'it's a lot less romantic than it sounds'. And, Avid Reader, it is. I'm jet-lagged, back-ached, and Copper-missing.

However, these adventures make my life incredibly rich; I am incredibly thankful.

A "Special" Form of Colitis

2010-04-18T17:23:00.000-07:00

Taken from: Mar Vista Vet; (COMMENTS MINE)
HISTIOCYTIC ULCERATIVE COLITIS - A SPECIAL FORM OF COLITIS

This condition is also called "Boxer Colitis" (WHAT?!) because the Boxer breed seems predisposed. This form of colitis is particularly ulcerative (SUPER... "particularly ulcerative"...) and involves infiltration of the tender colon lining with cells called "histiocytes." These cells are the cells that are normally called into the scene of inflammation relatively late so that they can absorb the dead cells and debris that have been created by the inflammatory event.

Dogs with this condition typically show symptoms at an early age (less than 2 years)(DAMMIT! Copper qualifies!) and become more debilitated by their symptoms than the usual colitis patients do (NO KIDDING). It is currently believed that this condition results from an inappropriate immune response against the common bacteria of the colon. Dogs with this form of colitis do not respond well to the usual remedies but instead seem to show an excellent response to the antibiotic enrofloxacin.

Histiocytic ulcerative colitis can be confirmed by biopsy though signs of colitis in a young Boxer are highly suggestive of this condition (AND MY BOXER HAS IT -- BOO!).

Don't mean to gross you out, Avid Reader, but indeed Histiocytic Ulcerative Colitis has likely descended on the Moore household. Poor Copper is el-sicko and has been for the past week. She was having VD (volcanic diarrhea) as of last weekend and blood began to show in her stool as of last Monday. She started a couple of meds this week that only stablized the condition, but it never improved. After some blood-free samples, Copper took a turn for the worse today and I took her in only to have more probing (Copper took it like a champ!), more meds and her first x-rays. We're on what I call "horse meds" now as she's getting Clydesdale doses of anti-bacterials now. But more white rice/cottage cheese meals, runny diarrhea, and colon challenges for Copper. Cross your fingers she improves for her first birthday party in three weeks!

SOUNDERS! SOUNDERS! SOUNDERS!

2010-04-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't been on the road in a few weeks, I've been able to have adventures at home of late. The biggest adventure being the start of the SoundersFC 2010 campaign! Which also means Guy Time(!), pre-funcs at the DoubleHeader(!) and furious rounds of Screw Your Neighbor(!)!

We're 2-1 at home this season -- with a 2-0 MLS Opener against expansion team Philadelphia Union, a 0-1 loss to New York Red Bulls, and an amazing 1-0 win over the Kansas City Wizards this past weekend. Bottomline, love our tickets, love pomp & circumstance, love the game! GO SOUNDERS!

Happy Birthday, Amy Weaver!

2010-04-16T20:45:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Amy's birthday on Friday with a small night out at FONDI -- one of our favorite pizza places! I don't get to see Jace Paulson as often as I like (every minute of every day), so it was fun to get to celebrate with him as he continues to become a little man! He's definitely in to birthdays now and even picked out a card for Amy for her big day. A fan of surprises, he also told her what was on the card before she even opened in... "GURRAFFE! GURRAFFE!".

All this is to say... HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMY!

(In even more recent JaceMan news, this 28-month-old is an official COWBOY and rode is first horse! Check out the video on Jesse & Steph's blog and be sure to listen closely at the end to his pronouncement!)

Pleasant Surprise!

2010-04-07T10:25:00.000-07:00

I got a pleasant surprise in my email inbox yesterday -- this photo!

On New Year's Eve, we celebrated lunch at Biergarten Restaurant in "Germany" at Epcot's World Showcase. At our communal table, we had a great time with some honeymooners from the midwest (Chicago?) as well as a couple with their 7-year-old son. We took photos of the entire gang and promised to email photos when we returned to our home towns. I was horrible and sent my photos off in late January and forgot all about others that might be coming...

It was a pleasant suprise and reminder of an awesome week in DisneyWorld with John & Amy!

Sounders Storm

2010-03-26T08:08:00.000-07:00

The Seattle Sounders FC soccer club is back! This year's MLS season opener was in Seattle at QWest Field and played in the worst outdoor weather for a sporting event in Seattle in recent memory... we got DRENCHED!

Good news: the Sounders won 2-0 on two goals scored right in front of our seats before half.
Bad news: I couldn't take it anymore and Jesse & I left soon after halftime.

I look forward to the season! And to dry(er) games altogether!

Doggy Day Care!

2010-03-15T12:34:00.000-07:00

My little girl is growing up: I dropped her off at Daycare today!

Because Copper has become "stubborn" about chillaxing in her crate at home during the work day, I decided it was time I broke down and enrolled her in school. She needs and loves socialization.

The good news is that there's a great doggie day care not three blocks from my office, so we scheduled a temperament check this morning and she is getting a full-day workout with what looks to be 15-20 other big dogs at The Barking Lounge, named Seattle's #1 Doggie Daycare!

And, as the website says, "Feeling some separation anxiety from your canine companion? Just visit this page to see what your pooch is up to!", I bring you The Barking Lounge's webcam such that you can check in on Copper every now and again also -- you know I am!!

International Celebrity Look-Alike and other Final Thoughts from SEAsia...

2010-03-10T02:48:00.000-08:00

Call me tan and I am a happy man.
White teeth? I am OVER the moon.
Today, however, I think I may have gotten the cream of the crop compliment... "Oh My God! You're Tom Ford! No seriously, you look like Tom Ford!"

Yes, I will say we both have short first & last names (and if you say them real fast, you could confuse one for the other -- and I do get "Tom Oar" a lot). I will also say that I am a bit scruffy this week. However, I will NOT say I have as much hair as nor even an ounce of the fame of the real deal. But Avid Reader... I'm takin' it!! WOO HOO!

In the category of events & adventures, I was able to have a couple of mini UW MBA reunions this week -- the first of which included drinks with my good friend Rob Taylor at orgo, a roof-top bar over-looking Marina Bay. A brilliant night altogether, we got to share our crazy adventures in business and to reconnect. Inasmuchas the Tom Ford compliment may have taken the proverbial cake, hanging out with Rob was a darn-near second (yes, that awesome).

Of course, the second mini UW MBA reunion was getting to be on a conference call this morning with several classmates as we start to plan our 10-year reunion this fall. Amazing how time flies and how valued I still hold the amazing people I met during my two years of Business School. I'm excited for fall.

And speaking of being excited, I'm excited to be home. It's near 7PM on Wednesday in Singapore as I type. My flight departs at 5:45AM! Eleven hour countdown!

GUILTY!

2010-03-08T17:42:00.000-08:00

Guess who successfully managed The Great Escape in Seattle?!

I got this update from my friends John & Amy this morning. Copper is SO busted!

Singapore Zoo!

2010-03-07T04:33:00.000-08:00

Today was a STELLAR Sunday. I got up early to beat the heat and, with the Dolans, headed to the world-famous Singapore Zoo! I could literally put a list -- with adjoining photos -- together of the world of animals I got to see up close today. I will tell you that I took 350+ photos today of some 53 different animals... and this is me either deleting those that did not turn out or refusing to take shots altogether (sorry snakes). I will, however, share some of my favorites...

Polar Bear -- my first viewing ever of one of these amazing animals. I could have watched the biggie swim forever.

White Bengal Tigers -- another first: white tigers! I always have a soft spot for tigers as they were my first high school mascot (and an important one for my family). White ones, though? Super awesome.

Super Cute -- if this were an award, otters will most always win. However, some honorable mentions must go out to the pygmy hippos, orangutan babies, and penguins (even thought they smelled of the devil).

The Fave -- the sentry meerkat never disappoints. I was never really a "fan" per se, until I met The Sloucher in Sydney. Now, they're a fave.

Holy Pre-Historic BatMan! -- there are times when I'm simply blown away by creation and it nearly always relates to reptiles. This go was no expection as I couldn't grasp the sheer size of the giant turtles and the beastly crocodile. In addition, rhinos simply blow my mind and these white rhinos did not disappoint (hello dinosaurs!). I also got up close & personal with many random lizards who call the zoo their home, but who don't live in a cage...

The Last Place I Want to Be -- this goes out to the baboon exhibit. Not only would I never want to be dropped into this baboon pen in a hundred thousand million years, but I wouldn't wish it on my biggest enemy either! Can you say "Planet of the Apes"?!

Monkey Central -- not only were there tons of baboons, there were hordes of monkeys in general! This must be the world's most robust monkey collection with orangutans, chimps, drills and more!

Big Cats -- in addition to the white tigers, I got to be up close & personal (literally, a mere sheet of glass separated me!) with cheetahs, leopards and lions. It was amazing to me how powerful these cats look and how much I wanted one walking around my townhouse being BFF with Copper.

The Standards -- I call them standards which may imply they are simply not impressive. Not so! I've come to realize that giraffes and zebras *are* the zoo to me. No giraffe? No zebra? You ain't no zoo! That's crazy talk!

The X-rateds -- And for those keeping parental control on their internet, you won't want to check out the photos of the caught-in-the-act dirty bird Proboscis Monkey nor the Mongoose/mongeese (content not suitable for our younger Avid Readers). Say it ain't so!

All in all, it was an amazing day at the zoo, even if I was a sweaty puddle throughout! Kudos to Singapore for pioneering the open habitat concept and for all of their conservation efforts. I realize just how small I am, but how large of an impact I have on our environment whenever I have the chance to see so many amazing creatures. So, treat the earth well, Avid Reader. And become a hero of your hometown zoo!

Live from Singapore... it's Saturday Night!

2010-03-07T04:17:00.000-08:00

Alas, I have no pictures to post Avid Reader, but wanted to give you quick update on an awesome Singapore Saturday night in quick form...

1. Met up with friends Jodie, Kai and Michelle.
2. Headed East to check out some of Singapore's beaches and to enjoy dinner at yet another (delicious!) hawker market. And yes, it was delicious!
3. Manned up and went to Orchard Towers. Please only click that link if you are in an office-friendly environment. And stories can only be shared over adult beverages. But know that we found an amazing vantage from behind a one-way mirror (Thank You DownUnder Bar!).

And that was my Saturday night! WOO HOO!

TGIF - Singapore Style

2010-03-05T20:39:00.000-08:00

I can't tell you how excited I was that yesterday was Friday. It had been a long week altogether and after the 4hr training I led from 2-6PM yesterday in the Singapore office, I literally felt my body shutting down. (Nothing an ice cold beer with friends didn't fix though! Just sayin'.)

After work, Michelle & I met friends Jodie & Kai Huang for a stroll along the downtown waterfront to the Singapore Merlion as well as to a local for large adult beverages and snacks. Many photos ensued (of course) and we had a great time catching up.

Our Happy Hour continued into dinner at a Hawker Market nearby to our hotel. We met Stephen Dolan, walked (read: sweated our way) to the market, then enjoyed being accosted to sit in this section or that by the local proprietors. The stars must have aligned as we settled on a stall who's owner was dressed to please my dear friend Jesse Paulson.

We enjoyed four hulking prawns, a hulking crab (white pepper style) and many hulking adult beverages, and lots of laughs and conversation. Stephen & I vascillate between love & hate, so Michelle got to referee when she wasn't waving to locals and playing with her food (she was drunken and/or just extrememly happy; I'll let her have a combination of both this time...).

20 minutes

2010-03-05T03:33:00.000-08:00

Twenty minutes. That's the amount of time that separated Michelle & I from a 6.4 earthquake in Taiwan this morning. Here's how the rundown of our discovery went...

Normal morning; depart Taipei @ 10AM.
Arrive Hong Kong ~noon. Complete tasks (check directory, hit Mujo To Go, find lunch & adult beverage).
Turn on phone.
Text from Jesse Paulson: "Friend, just heard about the quake over there. Are you ok and safe? Not sure if you are where it hit, so please let me know."
Michelle hyperventilates.
I shell up.

We quickly get online to try to get a sense for what has happened -- and where -- and a thousand thoughts go through my mind, as you can imagine. We learn that the earthquake hit Taiwan, that it was big, and that we left the island a mere 20 minutes before it struck.

More research tells us that it didn't hit the city of Taipei itself (~150 miles south), but perspective says that A) it's as close as Vancouver, WA, is to Seattle, and B) we literally lifted off a whopping twenty minutes earlier. Needless to say, what was just another lunch of shu mai and pan-friend dumplings was also served with a pretty big slice of humble pie.

36 hours in Taipei

2010-03-04T03:32:00.000-08:00

I’m sitting in the Taipei airport awaiting the next leg of this trip to Singapore. What I’m realizing is that this whole thing has been a whirlwind already… 24 hours of travel, ~40 hours in Hong Kong, and now just having enjoyed ~36 hours in Taiwan. I’ll be settling into Singapore soon… but not until after a 2hr flight, 2hr layover in Hong Kong, and four more hours in the air. The good news is that I’ll have seven nights in Singapore – enough to get to unpack my suitcase!

Although brief, my time in Taiwan was wonderful. The folks at the Microsoft office as well as any we encountered – from baristas to cab drivers to people on the street – were incredibly kind and welcoming. Point being, it wasn’t just the temperature that was warm.

Taipei was a short flight from Hong Kong – and Michelle & I were able to get on an earlier flight. Our hotel was in the heart of the downtown area, literally a block from Taipei 101 – the second largest skyscraper in the world (2nd to the Burj in Dubai as of 4-Jan-2010; I literally missed being in the world's tallest building by under 50 days! COOL!). My colleague TeQ & I quickly dropped off our suitcases and backpacks, tucked sleepy Michelle in for the night, then wandered around the neighborhood to enjoy the Lantern Festival. Avid Reader, the Year of the Tiger is in full force in Taipei; I’ve never seen more tigers in my life! We roamed paths of lanterns, caught a 10PM concert in the park, watched the City Hall light show, wrote our 2010 wishes for all to see, and enjoyed "flora" from around the world as part of the Flora Festival. Taipei was truly a city of lights. It seemed more like Christmas in New York than March in China.

After a productive work day – more than five hours of meetings and a group lunch – Michelle & I opted to scale Taipei 101 and catch the sights of the city. More than that, however, we knew we were in store for another adventure and also proceeded to make our own! Armed with cameras and a spirit of adventure, we enjoyed own our photo shoots, being a part of others (literally, three groups of tourists asked to take photos with us!), making friends, and creating the shot of a lifetime!

Our wonderful Microsoft colleagues Grace and Daniel then escorted us to the Shilin Night Market such that we could experience the sights, sounds and tastes of one of Taipei’s most famous local markets. The market was a throbbing world of food stalls, gift shops, clothing & accessories carts, and more. We enjoyed fresh dumplings, some crazy and DELICIOUS spicy chicken patty, and a humbow(?)-like bun stuffed with meat & scallions. One could call it complete mayhem, but there was a normal-ness to the market that is comforting, if not at least settling as if this is how things should be.

Relative to how things should be, these trips should be filled with hard work and hard play. So far, it has certainly been filled with both with more to come!

Long time, no see, Hong Kong!

2010-03-02T06:10:00.000-08:00

Greetings, Avid Reader, from Greater Asia Pacific! Indeed, I am on the road again, and therefore have APAC adventures to share!

The wonderful news is that I'm getting to travel with Michelle Minier on this trip -- not three weeks after having gotten to vacation with her on Canuoan Island. Needless to say, it's fun to have travel adventures with a friend and this one is no exception!

After a quick layover (and adult beverage opportunity) in Japan, we landed in Hong Kong after nearly 24 hours of travel. Exhausted, but undeterred, we worked a full day then had a complete evening of adventure, including taking in Victoria Harbor from Kowloon, watching the Harbor's light show from AQUA, enjoying the water ferry, riding the escalator, exploring the streets of HK, downing adult beverages, then both nearly crashing out in the cab on our way back to the hotel. Just what an evening should be!

Sadly, our time in Hong Kong was short -- as will our time be at our next destination... Taipei! I'm so thankful to get to see another amazing city and experience a new country altogether! More to come from Taiwan!

Happy Spring(?)!

2010-02-21T12:18:00.000-08:00

Avid Reader, it is STUNNING in Seattle! Could Spring have sprung a touch early? Is the world coming to a rapid end?

I'll tell you someone who is convinced that the former is the case: Copper! She has taken to laying in the sunshine on the patio while I've enjoyed an open door in the office trying to get my life in order (taxes! new computer! Oh My!). It's been a quiet weekend -- one that had no plans as I was originally intended to leave for Hong Kong. Given the trip's been moved out a week, I've enjoyed trying to get as many things as possible checked off my Spring Cleaning list (none of which includes any actual cleaning!).

Happy Spring to you, Avid Reader. That is, if Spring has truly sprung in your neck of the woods!

I SWAM WITH TURTLES!

2010-02-19T13:40:00.001-08:00

For those of you anticipating proof of my swimming with sea turtles, it has arrived!

WOO HOO!

Les Jeux Sont Faits.

2010-02-05T19:35:00.000-08:00

Or as they say in France, "The Game is Up". Alas, Avid Reader, I am writing to you for the last time from one of the most amazing places I have had the opportunity to visit. I continue to count my lucky stars (as well as the hundreds of thousands we've seen here this week) and wish this place upon you at some point in your story as well. What a week. And more specifically, what a day. Again.

The day started as every one has with an amazing breakfast (I will forever remember the french toast), reading on the lounge chair on my patio overlooking the beach and bay, and not worrying about the Master Plan for the day. Of course, I had to do something and it included heading to Godahl beach to enjoy more of my book, the sun, and friends. Mission accomplished.

But Avid Reader, today's big activity included The Adventure of a Lifetime: Raffles' Amrita Spa's Balance Touch Therapy Massage. The best part? Getting it in their exclusive sea palapa! That's right! Saskia & I threw the co-worker label to the wind and booked a couple's package that included massages for two over the water! Nekkid co-worker? OK! Big deal!* It was an awesome massage, but more of an awesome overall experience. I won't soon forget it. If ever. Just sayin'.

(*For the record -- and because this is a PG-13 blog -- no nekkidness was actually witnessed during said adventure. And yes, Saskia would kill me without this little disclaimer.)

After our massages, we raced back to our villas then joined some of the final folks left here on Canouan (the majority of our large group left this morning) to hit the amazing golf course's 13th hole with 360 views around the entire island. We enjoyed adult beverages, jump photography and one of the most amazing sunsets I've had the joy of beholding. We rounded out our evening at the resort-hosted happy hour and finished up the night at Chez Galbraith Sisters for more views, beverages, stories and laughter.

Avid Reader, this trip has been one of the most amazing in all of my travels. A highlight for sure on the things I'll star for 2010 and beyond. Of course, I wish you were here for the adventure with me, yet will remain thankful that it's made real because I can share it with you here. As I say farewell to Canouan Island, I will also to you... until my next adventure... planned or no!

Guess what?! More adventures!

2010-02-04T20:15:00.000-08:00

Another great day in the Grenadines.
Another great day in the sun!

It was certainly both of those things, but you will be proud to know that I didn't spend it on a beach chair. At least not the full day! Thankfully, I was lights out by 10PM last night and slept until 7:30 this morning. Our long day at the Tobago Cays wiped me out -- as it did many in our party.

After breakfast, I pimped my ride all over the resort to try to catch some of the beauty that is Raffles Canouan on my own film. In all honesty, it's A) not possible and B) I'm still learning the fine art of camera settings and lighting. However, I did have a great time with self-photography sessions -- some or all of which I'm happy to share. In short, my morning was a stunning hoot.

I spent the afternoon with the gang, including Michelle & Joe as well as Sarah & Rachel -- who were probably the most awesome (Sarah made me say this, but still, she's not too far off) -- at the resort's second beach where we enjoyed adult beverages, snacks, and more snorkeling close to this bay's reef. It may have been the best pure snorkeling of the entire trip as it was filled with more reefs and therefore more action including fish schools... and sting rays!

We enjoyed a all-you-can-eat beach BBQ tonight and were once again entertained my Deridee's vocals. HOWEVER, this time, yours truly requested a little George Michael. Not only did she deliver, she chose George's 'Knew You Were Waiting' duet with Aretha Franklin. And she needed a George. And I just happened to take the part! YES! I sang (poorly) to the entire beach with the one and only Deridee. No one defriended me after the performance, so I'm calling it a success! That and the dance party that followed as we all had yet another great meal and great time.

I'm going to bed tonight realizing that my seven (7) nights here on Canouan Island and at this resort are down to two (2). I'm not excited to leave, though I am excited to see my little girl Copper again; I miss her so. True to the mission, however, I will ensure I have the best tan possible so she knows I worked my butt off down here. Vacation? Hardly!

Tobago Cays!

2010-02-03T16:35:00.000-08:00

Today was spent on the open sea... and yes, you can skip this entire entry if you like after this one sentence: I SWAM WITH TURTLES!

Our group chartered a catamaran and sailed out to Tobago Cays to enjoy snorkeling in one of the world's most famous hot spots. Tobago Cays are a collection of five islands all tucked behind a horseshoe-shaped reef, protecting all sorts of fish and sea life from the perils of the open sea. Interestingly, we learned that one of the islands was also recently used in one of the Pirates of the Caribbean films on which Captain Jack Sparrow gets stranded. Sure enough, upon seeing it, they were right on!

There were several folks in our crew who had underwater cameras, and the proof(!) is here! I can confess to nearly drowning as I started to shout aloud while underwater, completely forgetting the need to breathe. Occupational hazard. In true amazing form, after snorkeling with the turtles, we were taken to a nearby island where our resort had sent a crew of four to have lunch awaiting our arrival. Brilliant.

We snorkeled some more, enjoyed the wildlife, met some colorful locals, shot lots of photos, then cruised to Mayreau to experience a fully sand-floored bay where we got to enjoy calm Caribbean waters once more. No snorkeling per se, just swimming and jumping from the catamaran to the taunting/cheering masses below.

It's early on Canouan Island and it turns out, I'm turning in. With the amount of adventure, exercise, sun and adult beverages enjoyed by all, it'll likely be a quiet night on the island such that we can rebound for more adventures tomorrow, including a lobster BBQ on the beach (complete with Deridee's entertainment!). I have much for which to rest up!

Breakin' Routine

2010-02-03T01:27:00.000-08:00

Oh, Avid Reader, if you only knew how much I've altered my routine today! The fact that I'm updating you just now (1AM) on Day Four alone is enough to reveal my lapse. But just wait until you read what follows!

Everything seemed normal -- even just after my last post -- until I got a call from Saskia who invited me to the "second" beach... one requiring our golf carts to zip over the hill to another part of the resort. What-what?! Given that I thought I should probably explore more of my surrounds than just my 20-yard trek to the beach, I chose to go with. And it was only the beginning of a brand new day...

Upon arrival, we set up for another day in the sun, only to talk to Desmond and to be whisked away on a HobieCraft out to the open sea to enjoy "non-motorized" water sprots and to swim over the reef. Sadly, we had no snorkle gear, but did see a reef shark and a HUGE sting ray as we sailed around. We stopped to swim at one point and challenged one another to swim down to touch the bottom -- not easy to do in salt water. Eyes closed, effort aplenty, friend Sarah emerged with a handful of white sand... and a sand dollar! Hilarious story altogeter as she showed her haul, not realizing what was in it, only to have the rest of us ooh & ahh in amazement. She thought she had something on her face!

After our HobieCraft adventure, we sought out snorkle gear and took to the waters to practice for our adventure tomorrow. Not much to report other than me learning how to "dive" such that I can try to swim with turtles tomorrow -- my big goal!

Friends Michelle & Joe also arrived today -- a day late due to crazy airline adventures -- and they immediately settled into the beach lifestyle and let me escort them around the island with glee. We enjoyed dinner tonight, then started a dance party outside the restaurant at the pool with Deridee, one of the most amazing chanteuses I've had the joy to hear. She pulled out all the stops and had me wet-backed and bringing out some of the employees to join us. It was quite the treat for everyone.

So, new beach, sailing, snorkeling, dancing... all a complete 180 from the past couple of days. Brilliantly, I was able to do everything in the sun and continue to work on what will be the best tan of all time. That said, Avid Reader, you will be pleased to know that I have been religious about sun-screening each day. Granted, it's SPF15 and I can't always get the center of the back; however, it's religiously applied... and followed up post-shower with a likely too-heavy application of aloe. I'm being a good boy. Tanned and good!

More to come tomorrow, including an addition break from routine as we head out on a chartered catamaran to Tobago Cays -- one of the world's most famous snorkeling locales!

Day Three Update

2010-02-02T07:09:00.000-08:00

I can't even think of a creative title for Day Three, so Day Three Update will have to do. Yes, I'm getting that lazy. And tan.

It's Tuesday morning here on Canuoan Island and not much has changed... neither in the weather nor in my daily activities (laying on the beach) nor in the amount of joy I'm getting just breathing the fresh Caribbean air. Avid Reader, I am happy.

As to yesterday's activities, we will be at least somewhat creative and bring them to you by the letter 'B': Beach. Book. Brooke (there is a sunbather here who reminds me of Brooke Burke, so I will dub her so. I'm sure Brooke would sunbathe topless, too). Beer(s). Hmmm... already out of 'B' words. And since I'm only working on my tan, those four will have to do, though as you can imagine, they really make up the majority of my days! For more detail on Day Three, please see Day Two. :)

One thing I will confess to... and you can't say a word, Avid Reader... is that I threw myself my own little DancePartyUSA yesterday after "working" on the beach and before dinner with the posse. Originally meant to capture the essence of the progress on back tanning (i.e. back burning from Day One), I set my camera to take a few shots. However, with my headphones on, I ended up capturing the next dance moves that will likely hit the stage in the coming months. Just sayin'.

Here's to Day Four! Hmmm... maybe I'll do some exploring today. Or just work on my tan. Egad! Too much to decide!

Hello Sunshine!!

2010-02-01T06:43:00.000-08:00

Day Two is starting off much the same as Day One. Not lying: I could definitely get used to this routine. In fact, I'm going to get used to it again as soon as I log off here. In the meantime, however, I feel compelled to share my adventures!

After leaving the Internet Room yesterday, I went back to my villa to enjoy reading the paper with fresh brewed coffee on my porch overlooking the Caribbean. However, after staring at the beach not 20 yards away, temptation won out and I hit the white sand for the afternoon.

Armed with The Associate by John Grisham, I found a sunny spot (above, left. Yep, that was my spot yesterday!) and parked from about noon to 6PM when the sun went down. And yes, I both started and finished the novel. It was THAT good of an afternoon (though the book left much to be desired, it was still a great take-me-away story).

Avid Reader, I know you're dying to hear... and the answer is YES: I am well on my way to what could be the best tan ever. Without you here, however, I was unable to sunscreen my back and am slightly feeling the price this morning. I may be a little more red there than desired and/or enjoyed. Still.. don't be jealous.

Um... AWESOME!

2010-01-31T06:34:00.000-08:00

Good morning, Avid Reader, from Canouan Island!

First, I will start by saying that words absolutely fail this place. Any attempt to describe what I'm seeing -- even at this moment as I type -- are futile and pathetic. It's that amazing. Instead, you should be wondering why I'm sitting in the small library, breeze flowing through the open door, overlooking the Caribbean Sea not 30 yards away, and not shirt-free sun soaking. I'm wondering the same thing myself!!

However, true to form and true to you, experiences I get to have aren't made real until I'm able to share them with you. And I am dying for this place to become more and more real as I feel as if my plane(s) went down, I've died and gone to heaven. And I'm unsure if those words can even do this place justice.

It's my first morning in paradise. I just enjoyed hot coffee, fresh fruit, french toast and pastries for breakfast, bought some sunscreen (I know!), and thought I'd give a quick recap of the adventure thus far...

Nothing to report on the red eye to Atlanta, save Saskia and I having to try to get some sleep on the floor at the airport. Otherwise uneventful leg to Barbados. New lesson learned: duty free is amazing!! We loaded up on adult beverages (liquor) for pennies... and since soft drinks (mixers) are complimentary in our villas, this was brilliant!

We then boarded a small 17-person plane for our island hopping to Canouan... and island hop we did! For someone deathly afraid to fly (and oddly, who does so for a living!), Saskia was comforted by the fact that she and I scored an exit row. Brilliant! We enjoyed the sun set over some of the most beautiful water from the sky and landed in Canouan as the only four people left on our commuter plane.

We were met at the airport by Raffles Canouan staff, whisked through the village to the resort which is far beyond imaginable. Granted, it was dark, but it didn't take long to know that this place is something else. My stunning villa is something I'll have a hard time leaving... and I'm already excited about the deep soaking tub.

We enjoyed dinner at the high-end Italian restaurant with and compliments of the Director of Guest & Public Relations, then I explored the grounds, including the pier which appears in the previous post. Yes, Avid Reader, it exists! And last night, there was a yacht docked against it. I'm in that kind of place!

I thought my evening was ended and grudgingly started the go-to-bed process... only to get a call from Saskia & Stacey to come enjoy their 2BR w/ private pool terrace up the hill as well as what will be many nights of adult beverages and stories. Saskia, all too excited from our Eifel Tower photo shoot, decided we needed to capture our joy again and did we ever!!

So, my week on Canouan Island has begun. I'm already dreading its end, but for now, I'm going to enjoy the sun, this place, and being on island time. Greetings from the Caribbean, Avid Reader! Check back for new posts and photos of this amazing place throughout the week!!

Canouan Island, HERE I COME!

2010-01-29T10:03:00.000-08:00

2010-01-24T10:58:00.000-08:00

Salut Avid Reader! I realize it's been oh so long since I've posted. This implies, of course, that I have had no adventures, and OH THE CONTRARY! True, they have not been Asian-based adventures, but I've had a number all the same. A couple of top stories and highlights...

* Being reorganized at work mid-December (7 bosses in 21 months).
* An amazing week with friends in DisneyWorld from Christmas through New Year's (see previous post).
* Being reorganized at work mid-January (8 bosses in 22 months).
* A weekend in Portland and Lincoln City with my family.
* News of a new Paulson arriving August 2010!
* And a quick trip to London for meetings just this past week.

The photo above is a small dinner we enjoyed at a tapas restaurant near our hotel after work one evening. Folks from the Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Toronto, Sao Paulo, and of course from our Europe/UK offices. A good adventure for sure; London's always an amazing city to visit!

More adventures to come, I promise, including updates from what I'm sure will be the vacation of a lifetime! I'm headed to Canouan Island for a week at one of the world's most amazing resort hotels. Don't be jealous.

What did you do on your Christmas vacation?

2010-01-03T20:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!

2009-11-29T19:39:00.000-08:00

The tree is up! The stockings are hung! It's Copper's first Christmas!

We enjoyed a full four days of vacation this past week; I was thankful to be home and reunited with my little girl. We spent time running errands, visiting dog parks, putting up the Christmas decor, eliminating (maybe... don't ask) a rat from the garage, and are now ready for the holiday season!

I hope you are as well, Avid Reader, and wish you the most Happy of Holidays!

The Hennigans + One!

2009-11-25T02:27:00.000-08:00

After nine days in London & Paris, you'd think I was over-supplied with highlights. However, one of the best may have been last night having gotten to see my friends Brian & Kirsten Hennigan as well as meeting their 10-day old -- and newly Americanized with a US passport -- daughter, Tess Makson (born 11/15 -- same day as my brother!).

We enjoyed catching up altogether, staring at Tess, realizing it'd been over 1.5 years since our last visit, and similarly realizing that our relationship defies time. Kirsten even sent Brian & I to the nearest pub to get some Guy Time before Daddy Duty (BH) and Seattle (TM) beckoned.

Incredible couple. Incredible perspective. Incredible new life.

Incredible highlight.

2009-11-24T02:06:00.000-08:00

The primary reason for this trip was to meet with stakeholders on the EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa), UK and France Media Network businesses in addition to attending the MMN EMEA Summit this week.

Of course, summits mean all-day meetings and drinking/dining adventures after. This one was no exception. We took over the private room of The Fenix nearby the London office and had a great time connecting with people from around Europe, including from Spain, France, Belgium, Norway, Netherlands, Germany, Sweden, Scotland, Italy, and of course, the UK. Of course, the evening turned into more drinking, less dining and some dancing!

I continue to be amazed that the little business I helped to launch in 2003 is now the core of Microsoft's online display advertising strategy and that it's truly global. In light of the fact that I can't show anyone anything specific about what I do -- I build nothing; create nothing -- I'm reassured in that I created a sustainable business. This pleases me so.

La Bicyclette Bleue*

2009-11-22T14:16:00.000-08:00

Another day, another tour of Paris! While Saskia and I both racked up more miles on our shoes, we also hit the capital city of France by bicycle today! Yes, we braved les rues avec les drivers francais!

Paris has an amazing bike rental program with stations all over the city. We took advantage of bikes near our hotel, crossed through the Louvre, rode along the Seine and stopped to enjoy scenic views of the Eifel Tower by day. Needless to say, we got some amazing shots and I’m excited to share a re-enactment with friends Carla & Erin! Ever the adventurer, Saskia again allowed me to art direct and proved to be a fun model in all shoots. Thanks Sas!

From le Tour Eifel, we crossed the Seine, got a few more shots, then headed to L’Arc de Triomphe. Though adventurers, we dared not the roundabout to the center. Instead, we dropped off our newfound transportation, enjoyed cafes on Champs-Elysses while a rainstorm passed, then enjoyed more posing throughout the city (You should know, Avid Reader, that London was a wet mess until the day we arrived last week. Paris was as wet. We didn't see a drop of rain until this afternoon -- and it was after we parked our bikes. Talk about an amazing weather trip; this was it!).

Our final destination took us to Montmartre for The View of Paris from Sacre Coeur. Saskia discovered another boutique on the way, so more shopping ensued. Given that everything was in Euros, I’m unable to report on how much she actually spent. I also doubt she will confess. Always the tourist scene, we actually caught the most amazing (soccer) juggler I've ever seen. He even proceeded to scale a lamppost while spinning the ball on a pen on his nose. Um, no joke.

Our day ended with a final walk from La Magdalene to the hotel such as to get to the train to London. I will miss Paris again, but am pleased to have again whet my appetite by getting a taste over these past few days.

Paris, comme je t’aime. Au revoir, mon cherie. Je te raconte comme les cheveux.

*La Bicyclette Bleue was a book read by a woman who my Aunt & Uncle hosted one summer in Boise. We took her on a camping adventure; I know that that experience is what drove me to study French in high school, college, and beyond. Pretty defining, no?

The Loop

2009-11-21T15:23:00.000-08:00

Saskia & I walked a significant Paris mile today, took in some incredible sights, enjoyed my old neighborhood, and shopped hard. I'm surprised we made it out again for dinner and to see more sights tonight, but we are adventurers!

We started the day on a Metro adventure to La Bastille where we had to find a boutique Saskia was intent on discovering. And did we (she!) ever! I have to admit, it might have been one of the most charming shops I've been in. Spacious, well decorated, cool stuff. Merci was definitely a 10.

From there, we passed my old boulangerie, grocery, and front door! 11 Rue Castex was my home for the fall of 1999; an address (and door) I'll always remember. We hopped right around the corner to Ile St. Louis, then enjoyed some time in the Notre Dame gardens. Of course, it wouldn't be an adventure without a photo shoot -- and we indulged.

Centre Pompidou was on our list, but shopping & lunch beckoned. We accomplished both in the Marais, including the latter at what was my favorite restaurant in Paris: Pizza St. Antoine. I say favorite because it was my first meal here when I moved and has that special place. Relative to the pizza and Carlsbergs? Just as hot and cold as I remember both!

For dinner tonight, Saskia & I ventured out again (barely!) and decided we needed to see the Eifel Tower at night. We've had glimpses, of course, but nothing full-on until this evening. It was drizzling, so our time was ultimately cut short, but it was long enough to capture Gustav's wonder yet again.

I'm just now back at the hotel, ready to put this Saturday night -- and final night in Paris -- to bed. I have a short list of To Do's before our train to London. Sadly, this list excludes food shopping as I'm now 0-the world on trying to bring back my favorite cookie of all time, Le Petit Ecolier's Chocolate Caramel biscuit. I know, I know! That said, bonne nuit, mon ami!

L'adventure commence!

2009-11-20T23:36:00.000-08:00

Bonjour! This crazy busy week has come to its end. With its finale, my Paris adventure begins! Even as I wake to a French Saturday as I'd done so many times when I lived here (it's my 10-year anniversary of having lived in Paris!), I find myself relishing each individual moment... the collection of which may likely end up in this blog!

Saskia and I are already enjoying all things French, including brasserie dinners (escargots!, charcuteries!, creme brulees!) and what it means to be living in the 1er. After work yesterday, we checked in to our new hotel, found a nearby boulangerie, ordered hot ham & brie sandwiches on baguette accompanied by eclairs au chocolat, and sat in the Tulieries gardens near the Louvre to enjoy a late lunch. "Really?", you ask? Yes, Avid Reader, really. It's that awesome.

After lunch, we enjoyed our first (of many, I hope!) photo sessions of one another around the Louvre courtyards and hit high-end boutiques where Saskia scored a pair of fashionable pants on her way to her 'Parisien outfit'. Me? My big purchase was a bottle of water. So far. I'm on the hunt for the most amazing biscuit under the sun; I'm 0-3 to date with grocery stores -- wish me luck!

Other highlights so far...
- Um, that's the Louvre. Do you realize we're staying a block from the Louvre?
- Confident, if simple vocabularized, French. Saskia is impressed.
- Waiter twin of my NYC colleague Luke Pardi
- Saskia making an escargot scene. She ate it; I am pleased. Next time, she won't make the fuss.
- Mousse au chocolat (anyone sensing a dessert theme here?)
- Christmas lights @ Printemps & Galleries Lafayette
- Our alley view of St. Roch
- The woman at the Tulieries fountain thinking we were British, married, fluent in French and spoke to us as if all three things were true after we continued to suggest otherwise.
- Being here. Seriously, just being here.

Paris, How I've Missed You...

2009-11-19T12:01:00.000-08:00

Indeed, I am back in France after not having put a foot on its incredible soil for nearly 10 years; she is just as amazing as I remember her. You know those days when you wake up and pinch yourself to try to snap out of a false reality? Today is one of those days.

I'll tell you this; I ain't pinching myself; I don't want to wake up!

'Tis the Season!

2009-11-18T00:08:00.001-08:00

One of the things I'm excited about being in these two amazing cities over the course of the next week or so is the fact that 'tis the retail season! Christmas marketing is in full swing; department store windows compete for attention. London is no exception and I got my own personal tour this morning as I took an early morning stroll.

Fun, this year marks the 70th anniversary of 'The Wizard of Oz' and Harrod's is taking advantage by dressing their holiday displays in emerald and gold. In an haute couture homage to all things Oz, Dorothy was draped in a modern take on gingham, the Tin Man sparkled, and the Lion donned a COURAGE belt. Something for everyone, I appreciated the Munchkin interpretation as well as the use of Cesar (aka Toto) to promote even the pet section of Harrod's. Brilliant!

London!

2009-11-16T23:54:00.000-08:00

Yep, you guessed it! I'm off on another international adventure! This time, I went East and will be in London and Paris Nov.16-25. It'll be a busy week at work, but I'll get to enjoy a weekend in Paris... and the 10-year anniversary of when I lived there in 1999. Crazy how time flies! I'm excited to test my latent French language skills: nous verons!

For now, however, London it is. My friend & work colleague Saskia found an awesome boutique hotel in an amazing neighborhood and we enjoyed a leisurely afternoon in the sun, then a night of work back at the hotel. The next two days are filled with meetings, then off to Paris for two more days booked solid. Good times!

As for Copper, she is safe at home under the care of dear friends John & Amy Weaver, who are now dubbing their responsibilities as "The Den of the Ferocious Beast". Oh dear! Bonne chance to all!

The Amazing Race

2009-11-15T23:40:00.000-08:00

Because of a Rookie Travel Mistake, I experienced a bit of an Amazing Race this past week. Completely reliant on All-Star teammates, my leg was a race through Sea-Tac airport onto a departing flight...

Amy Weaver saved my proverbial butt this weekend as I realized I forgot my laptop at home after checking in for my flight to London on Sunday. She raced from her Belltown home north to Licton Springs, onto I-5, over to Hi-99, through downtown, to the airport to deliver my laptop to a frantic desk agent who raced my laptop to me past the first security checkpoint. After which, I raced through security, onto the S-gate shuttle, and into my economy class seat bound to London with only moments to spare! It was the most adrenaline-inducing airport adventure I've had in my life.

And yes, I would team with Amy Weaver on the Amazing Race ANYTIME! I tell you what, Avid Reader, my friend totally delivered, literally and figuratively! THANK YOU, Amy!

The Latest

2009-10-31T09:43:00.000-07:00

Hello Avid Reader. It's been a while, I know. I even had an adventure to Sydney, Australia since we last chatted (see previous post -- I said 'Hello' from Down Under at least).

Sadly, it was the quickest long-haul trip ever; I landed on Tuesday morning and was in the air again by Friday afternoon. Happily, I got to see Sydney again as well as my Aussie friends & colleagues, had a productive work week, and was able to get home to my little girl!

Relative to The Latest, that's pretty much it in a nutshell. However, it's been an interesting week in Copper's world. We made Bob Barker proud this week: Copper was spayed! We're in recovery mode this week which is to say I'm doing everything in my power to keep Copper from racing around the house and wanting to play tug-of war.

Copper tipped the scale @ 41.4lbs on Wednesday. My little girl is getting big -- though we still enjoy lap time now and again. She's a gem (save a kitchen cabinet chewing habit she's trying to form that I'm trying to quell)!

Copper Update from AU!

2009-10-21T00:04:00.000-07:00

No, Avid Reader, sadly Copper was unable to join me on my latest trip to Australia (Hello from Sydney, by the way!). However, my dear friends Amy & John Weaver graciously agreed to house/Copper-sit while I'm away... and posted this entry on their blog.

My Little Wild Thing is Thriving!
Thanks McWeavers!

Followed by the Real Deal...

2009-10-11T09:20:00.000-07:00

But the real Joy of Sport followed Saturday morning as I watched a three fields of 1st & 2nd graders play flag football! Sponsored by the NFL Flag Football Program, my brother Kevin coaches the "Cowboys" (and my nephew Tony) who happened to beat the "Seahawks" in their 10AM game. Again, more dedicated parents, but kids playing football ON the field vs. in the end zones.

It was brilliant to see so many kids having a great time (oh, sure, there were tears, too), with coaches right on the field for each play. There were some teams that looked to be contenders while others would simply be excited to catch a thrown ball. All teams brought me joy.

My favorite quote of the day came from the organizer, who, between games during the awards ceremony & group photos, thanked one of the (limping from the previous night's beating) high school football players for not missing a week of reffing duty. Specifically, "while all of the other players are out hunting, you took the time to support these kids". Pheasant season did start that morning, afterall. Hilarious.

Friday Night Lights

2009-10-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

Part of the seeing George process was catching him direct the Homedale High School Marching Band at halftime of the Homedale vs. Fruitland football game! It was incredible to be back in the high school football environment with an entire student body out to support (though not to pay actual attention to the game), dedicated parents in Trojan garb, a suited-up band, caramel apples for sale by FHLA (Future Hispanic Leaders of America), and kids playing their own football at each end zone.

While I froze nearly to death, I enjoyed every minute of it. Friday Night Lights, baby!

A Man & his Dog & his Four-Wheeler

2009-10-06T23:12:00.000-07:00

Mike. Tucker. Enough said.

George Kerrick!

2009-10-05T23:16:00.000-07:00

Inasmuch as the entire weekend was one highlight after another, the icing on the highlight cake was getting to see and spend time with George Kerrick! George is one of the campers who attended the Summer Enrichment Program at the University of Oregon who I got to know pretty well and with whom I’ve been able to keep in touch throughout the years.

I think I’ve seen George twice since my last year at camp (summer 1999), George has now grown into a man… and an incredible human being. He recently moved back to Caldwell from having lived in France for a couple of years and is teaching choir, band, and marching band to gregarious high schoolers in Homedale, ID. While not where he thought he’d land, George is making the most of it, rocking what he’s up to, and positively affecting lives one instrument-wielding teenager at a time.

You’re awesome, Big Buddy G!

Pendleton, Oregon, USA

2009-10-04T21:48:00.000-07:00

To honor my dear friend Charla Guiwits at her father’s memorial, I made a weekend of my time in my hometown – home of the Pendleton Round-Up. Let'R Buck!

On Friday, throngs of Pendletonians crowded the Betty Feves gallery at Blue Mountain Community College to see Bruce Guiwits’ final art show – hundreds of graphic art pieces he created. I was able to see the Guiwits family as well as handful of folks with whom I went to high school. I got to hang out with Warren again, as well as see he & Charla’s little ones, Elka and Camden.

Meagan Elliot & I enjoyed a lazy Saturday morning at her Dad’s in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, but spend the afternoon hitting Pendleton highlights, including the Round-Up sign I painted over 20 years ago still hanging at the baseball park. We drove past the two homes I lived in (on Nye & on 22nd), hit Big John’s hometown pizza for lunch (TACO PIZZA – as good as we remember it!), caught some of the Husky game there, and toured downtown. The highlight of the day was visiting the grave of my dear friend Becca Holowecky who died of breast cancer at the too-young age of 30. Somber. And awesome.

While Sunday was a travel day, it was all about traveling on Memory Lane. On my way to Boise, I stopped in LaGrande, OR, to see the two houses (on 2nd & in Island City) I grew up in there as well as tour my elementary schools, Riveria and Island City. It was amazing to me how much smaller and manageable things seem now. The world is a big place to a 6-year-old. I also found my grandparents’ house in Ontario, OR, as well as the park all of the cousins overtook with each stay. The same swing set, slide, and merry-go-round were still there after 30+ years.

All in all, it was a GREAT weekend. The combination of memories and time on the road created a pensive trip altogether – one that is now culminating in respite and thought-time in Crouch, ID, at my parents’ cabin. How I love it here!

My Little Graduate

2009-10-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

We did it! We graduated! Copper and I spent every Monday of the summer since her arrival at PetSmart and their Puppy Class. Really designed to train the trainer in front of the trainee, I inherited a clicker and some strong communication skills to help Copper and I grow into the relationship we have today. Short story long, we did it!

We graduated this past week, and Copper was awarded the unofficial "Best Grower" award for having quickly outgained all other pups in size and build. That's my girl! She wore her cap proud and walked like a queen around the store with her puppy friends Porter (Beagle), Mojo (German Shorthair), MoMo (Husky), Jax & Willow (mutts), and Kashi (Shiba Inu). Well done, Cop-Cop*!

*this is Jace Paulson's name for Copper just now. He now says "Hi Todd Moore. Cop-Cop?". I love that little one so! He & Copper melt me!

Mole-B-Gone!

2009-09-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

Not an adventure in Asia per se, but I did have one recently as I had a mole removed! Why would I blog about this you ask? Honestly, I don't know and it is 100% odd. HOWEVER, in an effort to raise awareness (yeah!) of melanoma and other potentially life threatening disease, I feel it's my duty to share my own struggle such that you, too, Avid Reader, will get yourself checked out as well. (Damn, I'm GOOD!)

After years of worry, I finally went in for a full body check right before I left for Asia. Thanks to my dear mother, I'm a someone mole-y guy, but my ability to tan rivals the Italians (so I'm adopted; hard to know). With four specific moles of concern, I pointed out each one, described why I thought it was an issue and got the doctor to nod politely, but say, 'we'll keep a watch on that one'. However, when he saw the one below my left arm-pit, he didn't let me describe but cutting me off: "I don't like that one." It's not something you want to hear while you're getting checked for cancerous moles. lso what one doesn't want to hear? "Can you spread your butt cheeks for me now?".

In sum, we removed the mole this past week and I'm stitched up and healing nicely, awaiting results from the lab which should arrive sometime next week after they slice and dice the dime-sized, three-time thick chunck of flesh removed from my torso. Good times, really. And good times for you, Avid Reader, who know you should get checked and haven't -- or won't.

Take my advice: Grin. Spread. Relax. Any order you choose!

SUPER SMALL WORLD!

2009-09-17T04:59:00.000-07:00

While out on the town today with my friend Justin, we went to the Raffles Hotel to see some of the true colonial architecture as well as to hit the Long Bar and enjoy Singapore Slings where the drink was born. In so doing, I ran into a familiar face from the Seattle volleyball community who had moved from Seattle nearly five years ago!

As I searched for the bathroom, I passed her once, twice (found it!), and on the third pass, broke the ice: "Excuse me. I think I know you. From Seattle? Played on SuperFriends? Tina, right?" Brilliant! She's just starting a two-month trek through SE Asia. Crazy enough, I only knew Tina from the volleyball court -- as an awesome player on one of the best teams @JetCity (and our biggest rival) -- but with the craziness of seeing her today, it was like we were old friends reconnecting after years apart. Awesome. Just awesome.

After seeing Sarah McGovern randomly in a restaurant I walked by in Hong Kong, seeing Cheryl Lee from the UW MBA Class of 2001 in the lobby of the Microsoft Singapore office, and then seeing Tina Churchill at the Raffles Hotel, I have officially decided (again) that the World is Small.

And I love that!

Cheers from Singapore!

Night Safari

2009-09-15T07:51:00.000-07:00

Our Forced Fun activity (morale event) @ the Regional Kick-Off Event was an adventure at Singapore’s Night Safari. The first night safari in the world, we enjoyed catching some of the world’s most amazing creatures in their natural habitats and when they’re likely to be awake!

We Happy Hour'd with rare African cattle. I saw my first rhinoceros, first tapirs (the butt of one which was patted by my Japanese colleague!), and more types of deer than I thought possible – and all of which I inadvertently imagined shoulder-mounted in my parents cabin (Don’t judge; them’s my roots.).

Before the safari, we enjoyed an incredible meal, and some local entertainment, including traditional Singaporean and Indian dancers. They were awesome to watch – and invited photography after. One guess as to who was first up!

Our tour guide then guided us to our trams and we were immediately thrown into habitat after habitat – sometimes in the midst of a habitat that was “fenced” by cattle guards. My favorite habitat was that of the hyena on one side of the hill, with a deer (assortment X) habitat on the lower, seemingly separated only by the tram road. Hello Temptation Island!

I didn’t get many great photos as I’m still camera illiterate for the most part. But the images and adventure will be forever cemented in my mind. And the photo captions there will read: “AWESOME.”

Todd Moore 1. Snake Phobia 0.

2009-09-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

As cool as Night Safari was, the big news of the evening was my amazing effort to thwart a phobia – of snakes! As part of our private party, we were “treated” to close encounters with a stunning owl as well as boa constrictor. Literally, as we stood on a patio next to the herd of African cattle, Justin says to me, I hear there might be animals making their way to the party. “Cool!", I say. "I want it to be a tiger!”

Oh, no , Avid Reader. It was a snake. At first glance, I bolted. Visceral and rapid, I was outta there. But then I thought to myself, “Self, life is about adventures. What a better story it would make to actually touch that strangling monster.”. And so, I started to make efforts to that end.

Amazingly, Avid Reader, my body and mind were not in sync. The closer I would get to the handler, the faster my heart would beat, the faster I lost my breath, the faster I sweat through my shirt. I literally *couldn’t* do it and I would have to step away saying, ‘this is not rational; this is totally irrational’. But I suppose that is what a phobia is and does. And I decided that I was going to control it.

So, I kept going back. Abetted by any number of folks watching this sh*t show, I was able to touch that serpent three times, before actually 'petting' its underside (much better; felt like shoe vs. scaly nastiness). Bottomline, I may have sweat through my shirt and acted the complete fool, but I was able to defeat my phobia in at least one small way. Best, I feel great. Better, stronger, faster.

Yep, Todd 1. Snake 0.

Singapore

2009-09-14T07:52:00.000-07:00

Not much to write about from Singapore after having arrived to the hotel after 1AM last night. I thought you might enjoy some shots of the city from of my hotel room. One thing I will note is that some Formula One event (just the world-famous Singapore Grand Prix) is scheduled for next week in Singapore and this entire city is becoming a race track! You heard it – they are turning city roads into the track so barriers are going up all throughout the city. Without this knowledge, I might have easily assumed I was entering MadMax as the cabbie drove me in to the city. It’s something to see!

That said, I’m definitely excited to explore a country I’ve never visited before, to see old colleagues from around the world (I love the Aussies!), and head into the tail leg of this Asian Adventure altogether!

Las Vegas of China

2009-09-13T09:20:00.000-07:00

(photos to come)

After a brief night out in Central Friday night (drinks on the harbor with colleague Nancy Willis; dinner in mid-levels), my colleague Justin and I got up early and took a hydrofoil to Macau – the Las Vegas of China! The Gateway to China! The Portuguese of China!

Like Vegas, arriving was quite the sight – complete with an Epcot Center-like wharf representing locales from all over the world. Like Vegas, casinos like Wynn and MGM beckoned.

Unlike Vegas, we were on Chinese soil. Unlike Vegas, it was historically Portuguese. Unlike Vegas, I gambled with $100 chips (HKD, of course, or ~$13 USD). Unfortunately – and unlike Vegas – I left Macau with fewer HKD than at which I started.

Literally dripping with sweat, Justin and I found a recommended city hike, so took to the hills to check out some of the famous sites, including the fort, the façade of the thing, and the heart of the chinese shopping market. It was SO humid, Avid Reader, that we had to take “let’s dry our backs and ass cracks” breaks in various businesses with AC… couched in our own coded language:

“Check out those shoes! Can’t get those back home!”
“I’d really love to see what the fuss is about in that jewelry store.”
“Oh! Magnets! Let’s see the different styles!”

Needless to say, Justin is an incredible travel partner. After bit more blackjack at the MGM, we caught the ferry back to Hong Kong and joined Doug & Kenwyn and Stephen & Melanie for an amazing dinner at Hee Kee Crab – where we got to select the crabs from the aquariums to enjoy. Delicious. Darts after were ceremoniously won by Stephen, Kenwyn and Justin. I let them win; can’t be in every photo after all!

Recent Adventures

2009-09-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

Avid Reader, I am quite behind on updates here. I apologize. It's been a busy few days, and even more tired nights. That said, I owe you updates on the following, and perhaps even the subject will now pique your interest:

* Macau!
* Singapore!
* Night Safari!

Also of import is the fact that it's Monday night here in Singapore and another day has come to a close on this Asian adventure. What this means is that I'm getting oh so much closer to a Copper reunion! For those keeping track at home, she is getting oh so big and I'm getting reports of outstanding -- though puppy-like behavior -- from John & Amy!

More to come. Stay tuned!

Happy Feet

2009-09-08T07:43:00.000-07:00

No photos to post with this entry, Avid Reader. Just close your eyes and imagine... WAIT! That was a trick! How can you imagine what I'm about to tell you if you can't read what I'm about to tell you?! (I'm so clever!)

So, after an incredible Nepalese dinner this evening in SOHO, my colleague introduced me to Happy Feet -- a company that specializes in foot massage. Or, in other words, a company that specializes in a dream come true.

Sarah orders the 50min. foot massage. I order the pedicure. Now you might think this sounds all frou-frou, but when you see the razor sticks shaving off dead skin, you know otherwise! This, Avid Reader, is MAN-STYLE! Even more man-style is this vision based on Sarah's comments watching this all go down: "it looks like he's grating parmesan cheese!"!

Indeed, this evening's adventure included the banned-in-the-US process of shaving dead skin off the toes, balls and heels of the feet with the razor-sharp equivalent of a flathead screwdriver, not to mention diving the razors into the sides of the toe nails/beds themselves. Having two pretty gnarled big toes, I gave my pedicurist/dream-maker an awesome challenge -- and he met it! Not only do my feet look like fresh feet of a newborn baby, they feel even better!

I may have just walked out of the 11th floor window for all that it mattered because I feel like I'm now walking on air! Oh how I love Happy Feet!

Heaven

2009-09-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

While it may be as hot as the center of hell, I got a taste of heaven this morning in the form of a Copper Update... "Just a dog on a farm".

How I miss that little one so!