Travels of a Texas Gal

Doing business in UAE

2012-01-23T20:11:00.000Z

Sensitivity to other cultures is important, never more so than when doing business. This month, I find myself back in the UAE for extended period of time in a series of client meetings. While I have read up on "acceptable" behavior for this region, knwoing when and how to apply it is the key.

A few observations:

(1) Doing business as a woman can present some unique challenges, i.e. not extending my hand to an Emirati mail for a handshake unless he offers his hand ot me first. For those men with long beards, this signifies a more conservative belief system, and as such, I should not use direct eye contact.

(2) Please refer to all clients as "Mr." or "Mrs." for the first few meetings until you have established the basis of an ongoing relationship or they invite you to refer to them by their first name.

(3) Respect hospitality.

(4) Recognise that honour or saving face is exceptionally important in any negotiation or business transaction. Be prepared to be indirect when saying no or declining an offer.

(5) Behave with sensitivity where alcohol is concerned.

(6) Steer clear of food products that are pork.

(7) Negotiations may take a long time and require several visits. This is partly to build trust, and partly because decisions may be made elsewhere. Decisions are made at the top, by consensus, often with the help of various committees. Once plan is made, expect swift action.

(8) Spoken word or verbal communication is more important than written communication. You get better results and quicker responses by meeting people or calling them rather than emailing them.

(9) Most meetings in the Arab world are "circular" rather than "linear". This means that your Emirati counterpart will in most cases not stick to a fixed agenda in terms of order, re-visit points when you thought you had cleared them, and regularly raise personal issues, comments or observations in the middle of a business discussion.

"12 in 12 in 2012" Tuesday Update

2012-01-13T11:59:00.000Z

T-2 weeks to ~~Marrakech Marathon~~ Dubai International Marathon (race #1).

Yea, I know, it is actually Friday, but the blog has been silent for a bit during the holidays. Vacation in Hawaii and all that stuff meant I never wanted to pull the PC out to post an update.

Suffice to say, the training has continued in earnest, with my longest runs being completed during the Christmas week. The taper is in full force now, with the goals of proper diet, enough sleep/rest, and completion of minor runs (this weekend will be a 12 miler) on the top of the list.

The big news is that due a work project in Dubai, I will not be able to run in the Marrkech marathon. Main reasons are the time off, no direct flights from Dubai to Marrakech, and too much time will be spent on airplanes getting back and forth. As luck would have it (the gods were indeed smiling), I am able to run in the Dubai International Marathon on the same weekend as the Marrakech Marathon. So, to quote the Crosby, Stills, and Nash song, "All aboard the train" except that this train to Marrakech is now actually a plane to Dubai.

Race day is Friday, January 27th. The Dubai course is flat, is an out and back course, and temps should be in upper 60s/low 70s. Not my favorite running weather but an option given the other constraints.

How do I feel? Actually, the body has been tired and sore over the last couple of weeks. Shin splints have been the main culprit as well as that left calf soreness returning (remember the muscle tear in London 2009????). Like any experienced marathoner, I pulled back the road running and did some cross training and that seems to have helped the shin splints, and slightly improved the calf soreness. I am not 100% yet but still two weeks before D-Day so will keep at it.

Fundraising has been solid and consistent, with 40% of the £10,000 goal being attained. I still have quite a few ideas up my sleeve and it is just the start of the marathon events. PLEASE: If you, a family member, or friend have personally been touched by cancer, please consider donating to Cancer Research UK on behalf of my "marathon" marathon journey.

www.justgiving.com/Holly-Young2012

da Vinci Day

2012-01-13T11:33:00.000Z

The long awaited day is here: Today is da Vinci Day!!!!!

So, why all the fuss? The Leonardo da Vinci: Painter at the Court of Milan Exhibit is the most complete display of Leonardo’s rare surviving paintings ever held. This unprecedented exhibition – the first of its kind anywhere in the world – brings together sensational international loans never before seen in the UK and all in one place, the National Gallery in London.

The event has been sold out for months, with my tickets being purchased early last fall.

What does the exhibit focus on?While Leonardo was a man of many skills and accomplishments, this exhibit focuses on Leonardo, the painter. Many of the works being shown were completed while he painted at the court of Milan.

What paintings are on display?Featuring the finest paintings and drawings by Leonardo and his followers, the exhibition examines Leonardo’s pursuit for perfection in his representation of the human form. Works on display include ‘La Belle Ferronière’ (Musée du Louvre, Paris), the ‘Madonna Litta’ (Hermitage, Saint Petersburg) and ‘Saint Jerome’ (Pinacoteca Vaticana, Rome).

The two versions of Leonardo’s ‘Virgin of the Rocks’ – belonging to the National Gallery and the Louvre – will also be shown together for the first time. The final part of the exhibition features a near-contemporary, full-scale copy of Leonardo’s famous ‘Last Supper’.

http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/leonardo-da-vinci-painter-at-the-court-of-milan

Bring on "da" man!

2012 is really here

2012-01-12T21:21:00.003Z

First week back at work from Christmas and New Year break, and all I can say, it's tough! Can I find a way retire to Hawaii and live there permanently?

I mean it.

Really...I do.

"To bucket or not" - that is the question

2012-01-05T09:57:00.000Z

Being a type-A, self-directed individual, setting goals is something I usually never shy away from (i.e. 12 marathons in 12 months, etc.). Still, I was impressed by a fellow Baylor friend (and FB co-hort, Gary A. - you know who you are :-)) after reading his FB post last year about creating his 2011 bucket list.

So, I have taken a page out of his book for 2012, although the Budman has informed me that I already had a full 2012 bucket list. Clearly, I did not agree, hence this post.

So, yes, my bucket list for 2012 has been set, but somehow felt I did not need the added pressure of posting the list for all to view....

Have anyone else created a list for 2012?

Lovin' the Aloha State

2012-01-02T09:49:00.000Z

Yes, the Budman and I are probably some of the last people I know to get to Hawaii...better late than never.

After a quick stop in Dallas for a pre Christmas visit with the family, we headed off to Oahu on Christmas Day. Mele Kalikimaka!!!

Translation: Mele Kalikimaka - Merry Christmas. The words "Mele Kalikimaka" are a phonetic translation. When the missionaries and other Westerners first brought the custom of Christmas to the islands the Hawaiians had difficulty pronouncing Merry Christmas and turned it into words that rolled more easily off their tongues. Of course, I already knew this thanks to Bing's Christma song, Mele Kalikimaka. Sad but true.

New Year's finds us in Maui - Hau'oli Makahiki Hou - Happy New Year. The western Christmas and New Year fell during this same time of the year that the Hawaiians traditionally honored the earth for giving them plenty to eat. This period of resting and feasting was called Makahiki (mah-kah-HEE- kee). It lasted for 4 months, and no wars or conflicts were allowed during this time. Because makahiki also means "year", the Hawaiian phrase for "Happy New Year" became "Hau'oli (happy) Makahiki (year) Hou (new)"(how-OH-lee mah-kah-hee-kee ho).

Catch you on the on the flip side of Hawaii.

2011: A year in review - London Theatre

2011-12-19T14:48:00.000Z

As I was putting up the last few programs from theatre productions we had seen in London, I was amazed at the treasure trove a great shows we have seen this year. A true embarassment of riches! For those who know me, I have seen 4 times the number of live theatre shows than cinema films this year, but "when in Rome, do as the Romans do!"

That said, here is the listing (P = play, M = musical, O = Opera):

* When We Are Married (P by J.B. Priestley)
* Onassis (P)
* The Wizard of Oz (M)
* Flare Path (P by Terence Rattigan)
* Betty Blue Eyes (M)
* End of the Rainbow (M)
* The Children's Hour (P by Lillian Hellman)
* The Pittman Painters (P)
* Pygmalion (P by George Bernard Shaw)
* Crazy for You (M)
* Cause Celebre (P by Terence Rattigan)
* South Pacific (M)
* Madame Butterfly (O)
* Le Nozze di Figaro (O)
* Being Shakespeare (P)
* Driving Miss Daisy (P)
* You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown (M)
* A Christmas Carol (P)
* The Lion in Winter (P)
* Pippin (M)
* Dick Whittington (M, but technically a panto)

Actors were well known; other were not. Highlights included performances by Robert Lindsay (two different shows), Michael Crawford, James Purefoy, Sheridan Smith, Sienna Miller, Keira Knightley, Elisabeth Moss, Ellen Burstyn, Carol Kane, Rupert Everett, Diana Rigg, Joanna Lumley, Simon Callow (two different shows), James Earl Jones, Vanessa Redgrave, and Dame Edna...just to name a few.

And the good thing is...there are already six shows in the 2012 queue, with Carousel, Ragtime, Singin' in the Rain, Top Hat, The Madness of King George and Master Class leading the pack!

Favorite show???? Ooooh, tough one. They were all so different that is is hard to compare. My top three certainly go to End of the Rainbow, The Pittman Painters, and Driving Miss Daisy (I mean, Vanessa Redgrave and James Earl Jones - how can it not be in the top three?)

Favorite musical???? Guilty as charged. I am sucker for R&H, so give me South Pacific any day. A guilty pleasure.

Least favorite???? Well, if I have to choose, Pippin.

This first Christmas gift of the season - GO BEARS!

2011-12-12T19:30:00.000Z

We purposely did not read emails or phone texts, read the online or paper news, and certainly did not watch any sports news coverage when we woke up on Sunday morning until AFTER we watched the replay of the NCAA Heisman Trophy presentation. Our satellite carrier provided coverage of the presentation, albeit in a tape delay format at 2 AM London time, so we got up early to watch it as a "pseudo live" presentation.

Yes, there is indeed a Santa Claus, as RGIII (a.k.a Robert Griffin III), was the first ever Baylor football player to receive the coveted Heisman Trophy. "Here Come the Bears!"

Not only is this young man an accomplished football player, but he is a student athlete with 3.9 GPA (having already completed his undergraduate degree in Political Science and is on track to complete his Masters in the spring), has aspirations for law school, is a team player, humble, and a religous young man. A credit to himself, his family, and Baylor University!!!!

Now, all I want for Christmas now is the RGIII Heisman win T-shirt!

Thankful for...

2011-11-25T22:53:00.000Z

In this season of Thanksgiving I am reminded of simple blessings, taking time to give thanks:

* my husband, partner, and best friend
* family that loves and cares for me
* my faith
* friends around the world that support me, accept me "warts and all", laugh and cry with me
* a life filled with new experiences every day
* my health...that enables me to do pretty much anything I want!
* a sense of humor and the ability not to take myself too seriously
* material blessings that enrich my life and others

Being with family in the US this Thanksgiving for the first time since 2001 reminds me of the things we take for granted.

Thanksgiving is that day to remember and to remind ourselves to celebrate Thanksgiving in our hearts every day of the year.

"12 in 12 in 2012" Tuesday Update

2011-11-22T11:58:00.000Z

T-9 weeks to Marrakech Marathon (race #1).

Putting in the miles (40 miles run this week) and at 26% of fundraising target. Little aches and pains in hip flexors and achilles, but nothing else too major. Lovin' those naps and massages when I can get them into the diary.

Reminder: If you, a family member, or friend have personally been touched by cancer, please consider donating to Cancer Research UK on behalf of my "marathon" marathon journey.

www.justgiving.com/Holly-Young2012

Taking it one step at a time,

This is why I am running

2011-11-22T11:49:00.000Z

On a recent weekend trip, as I sat on the return air flight home and reflected on my weekend, I sighed with satisfaction. It had been a fun weekend visiting a new city for the first time, embracing lovely warm weather and a cool, refreshing Mediterranean sea breeze, eating delicious food, and visiting interesting historic sites. In general, I gave the trip a "thumbs up" although it is always challenging to fit in my long runs on the weekend when travelling away from home/London.

I then became aware of the man sitting nearby who was wearing a baseball cap; he was clearly undergoing treatment for cancer (either chemotherapy, radiation, both, etc.). He had no hair on his head (hence the reason for the ball cap) and no eyebrows or eyelashes, was quite thin, and just looked very tired.

My heart went out to him...and then I thought, "This is the reason I am running my marathon challenge for Cancer Research UK...just for people like him."

Taking it a step at a time,

2012 Olympic torch relay

2011-11-16T12:46:00.000Z

We've had a little bad news, a little more bad news, and some good news.

First, Hachie Gal was notified today that she was NOT selected to carry the Olympic Torch for a one mile leg of its UK journey in conjunction with the 2012 Summer Olympics. Bummer dude...could it have been b/c I am not British????

Secondly, the torch relay course has now been publicized and the torch is not set to pass through my West London neighborhood. For those who are keen to see its targeted journey:

http://www.london2012.com/olympic-torch-relay-map

The good news is that on Days 67 and 69, I can get reasonably close to a route and come out and cheer "Citius, Altius, Fortius" (Faster, Higher, Stronger).

"12 in 12 in 2012" Tuesday Update

2011-11-15T12:49:00.001Z

T-10 weeks to Marrakech Marathon (race #1).

A relatively good week of training, although the fatigue level kicked up a notch this week (sadly, I am not as young as I once was).

A minor equipment setback was identified when it was discovered that the calibration in the Nike+ Sportswatch was slightly off, resulting in inaccurate distance calculations. Case in point: last week's 13 mile long run was actually only 12.6 miles. A bit disconcerting but better I know now rather than later.

Thankfully, my cracker-jack marathon road crew manager lept into action (a.k.a Budman) and with the fiendish determination that only a consulting partner can muster, he corrected the calibration issue tout de suite.

From a fundraising perspective, I am inching steadily closer to my fundraising goal of £10,000, with 23% raised thus far. If you, a family member, or friend have personally been touched by cancer, please consider donating to Cancer Research UK on behalf of my "marathon" marathon journey.

www.justgiving.com/Holly-Young2012

Taking it one step at a time,
HY

after 4 years of driving in this country...

2011-11-14T20:06:00.002Z

...is it just me, or are UK roundabouts an exercise in "organized chaos".

Yes....they never get any better. Sorry, Brits!

Remembrance Sunday

2011-11-14T16:25:00.000Z

In the United Kingdom, 'Remembrance Sunday' is held on the second Sunday in November, which is the Sunday nearest to the November 11th Armistice Day (the anniversary of the end of hostilities in the First World War at 11 a.m. in 1918) and the day "to commemorate the contribution of British and Commonwealth military and civilian servicemen and women in the two World Wars and later conflicts".

A very moving event, one we even watched on television! For those interested, read on.

The United Kingdom national ceremony is held in London at the Cenotaph on Whitehall and, since 2002, also at the Women's Memorial. Many other UK cities and villages participate in local Remembrance Day celebrations. For those US friends, think of US Memorial Day, and you get the picture.

Wreaths are laid by Queen Elizabeth, the Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales, as well as many of the members of the Royal Family as well, the Prime Minister, leaders of major political parties and former Prime Ministers, the Foreign Secretary, the Commonwealth High Commissioners and representatives from the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force, the Merchant Navy and fishing fleets and the civilian services.

Two minutes' silence is held at 11 a.m., before the laying of the wreaths. The silence represents the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918, when the guns of Europe fell silent. This silence is marked by the firing of a field gun on Horse Guards Parade to begin and end the silence, followed by Royal Marines buglers sounding Last Post. Church bells are usually rung "half-muffled", creating a sombre effect.

Other members of the British Royal Family watch from the balcony of the Foreign Office.

After the ceremony, a parade of veterans, organised by the Royal British Legion, marches past the Cenotaph, each section of which lays a wreath as it passes.

Throughout the UK, small crosses with red poppies adorn churches, cemeteries, etc. These are from outside Westminster Abbey.

Poppy Appeal

2011-11-10T16:13:00.000Z

Remembrance Day (also known as Poppy Day, Armistice Day or Veterans Day) is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth countries to remember the members of their armed forces who have died in the line of duty since World War I. This year in the UK, this day will be observed on Sunday, November 12th.

The day was specifically dedicated by King George V on 7 November 1919 as a day of remembrance of members of the armed forces who were killed during World War I. Hostilities formally ended "at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month" of 1918 with the German signing of the Armistice ("at the 11th hour" refers to the passing of the 11th hour, or 11:00 a.m.).

The red remembrance poppy has become a familiar emblem of Remembrance Day due to the poem "In Flanders Fields". These poppies bloomed across some of the worst battlefields of Flanders in World War I, their brilliant red colour an appropriate symbol for the blood spilled in the war.

Each year the nation expresses its unequivocal support for The Royal British Legion's charity work through the Poppy Appeal, emphasising the need to help all generations of the Armed Forces and their families - today and for the rest of their lives. Throughout the UK, men and women don red poppies on their lapels and clothing as a symbol of their support for Remembrance Day.

"12 in 12 in 2012" Tuesday update

2011-11-08T11:35:00.000Z

T-11 weeks to Marrakech Marathon (race #1).

Thanks to those of you who have heard the call for support! Both the training and fundraising are off to a solid start:

(1) Last week's long run was 12 miles - it was a good, solid run.
(2) I am 20% to my fundraising goal
(3) Currently, no unusual aches and pains for this stage :-)

As you reflect on all the good causes that are out there, please know how much I am appreciate the words on encouragement and the donations. Please keep those donations coming!!!!!

www.justgiving.com/Holly-Young2012

Taking it one step at a time,
HY

Guy Fawkes and fireworks

2011-11-07T08:50:00.000Z

Saturday was Guy Fawkes Day (a.k.a "Bonfire Night")...for those of you not in the know, a brief summary:

Fawkes and his revolutionary cohorts set about assassinating King James I and attepmpted to blow up the Houses of Parliament in a 1604 conspiracy known as the Gunpowder Plot. They amassed enough gunpowder in a basement near Westminster to essentially destroy that part of London as well as kill nearly the entire membership of the House of Lords, the senior bishops of the Church of England and the royal family. The plot failed, and Fawkes and his co-conspirators were put to death.

The character of Satan in Milton’s "Paradise Lost" is based on Fawkes, and today we have the word “guy” because of him; “burning the guy” in effigy is a part of how Bonfire Night, November 5th, is celebrated in the UK. Each year in Britain, fireworks and bonfires are set alight. I actually caught fireworks this year from my bedroom window....that is what I call service!

Another tradition apparently dropped by the wayside, but also connected to Guy Fawkes Day involved children building a Guy Fawkes effigy and waiting outside public places, asking passers-by for a "Penny for a Guy". I witnessed none of that this weekend....guess some traditions do fall by the wayside. Oh, wait, there was a reference to it on Saturday night's show by the 80+ year old host of Strictly Come Dancing, Bruce Forsythe, ...guess his age explains why.

Ever had a "cameluccino"?

2011-11-04T08:58:00.000Z

Recent trips to the UAE have proven to me that there are places that "do things bigger and larger than life" than even Texas.

Case in point: Why settle for a plain cappuccino when you can have a cameluccino?

At the only 7 star hotel in Abu Dhabi, known as the Emirates Palace, I was introduced to such a beverage. (And yes, the hotel ceilings are actually decorated with paint that is not only a golden color but actually contains gold ore flecks in it)...

...but I digress.

After a long day of client meetings, the team sat down to enjoy coffees and relax. Not being a coffee drinker myself, I still had to experience a cappuccino made from camel's milk (not cow's milk). Before you say, "Oooh, disgusting", it actually did not taste all that different. I am not sure I would have known the difference quite frankly had I not been alerted to it before hand.

And yes, those are shavings of gold on the top! Again, another first!

Next door to the coffee lounge, was also a fabulous bakery that made delicious confections to resemble all sorts of things, including Chanel and Vuitton handbags, and with prices to match the real things.

LOL - literally

2011-11-03T22:29:00.001Z

OK, I got an invite to attend a small gathering in Chiswick for the purpose of hearing a piano and voice recital of two Royal School of Music students. They are truly talented and they had a lovely program in store for the audience.

The recital was preceded by appetizers and cocktails, and brief chatting with about 40 people attending the recital.

I'll cut to the chase...the musicians were upstaged.

The main focus of attention was the "senior citizen" collie that kept wandering in and out of the music room....traipsing back and forth in front of the pianist or the tenor...clearly out of his element. Several of the guests, including myself, tried to comfort the poor animal but to no avail. Next thing I see out of the corner of my left eye, the dog keeps attempting to jump onto a sofa with 4 guests, only to be pushed back onto the floor. Snickering could be heard over Liszt and Schumann.

Next thing I realize, an odor is wafting through the room that is...well...quite awful. Metaphorically speaking, the dog "cut the cheese" and after passing the gas, clearly felt better and laid down at the foot of the piano.

At one point, he looked up and out at the audience, with what appeared to be a dog smile...as if to say, "Ahhhhhh"!

Sadly, I could not say the same.

'Nuff said

2011-11-02T16:27:00.000Z

Apocalypse 'predictor' Harold Camping apologises for getting it wrong... again. After incorrectly predicting the apocalypse twice in one year -- May 21st and October 21st -- he's finally come out and apologised (in a way) for a second inaccurate doomsday prediction.

According to him, "prophecy" is a tough business.

Apparently.

Tuesdays are "12 in 12 in 2012" marathon update days!

2011-11-02T11:15:00.000Z

Status of "12 in 12 in 2012" Marathon Challenge: T-12 weeks to Marrakech Marathon (race #1).

Ladies and gents...it might seem a ways off, but that first marathon for 2012 is looming large on the horizon. Sure, it will be marathon #15 in the overall marathon lifetime count, but it is officially T-12 weeks before I am standing on the start line in Marrakech. That is a sobering thought.

So, what's the progress thus far? Good, steady, and on the 10 point rating scale, I give it an "8" for overall discipline. Work is always nipping at my heels, though, so that will be a constant challenge to get those runs in. :-).

That said, I have decided to institute "a weekend nap and massage" policy. Always looking for reasons to reward "good behavior", I can think of no better way to do that than indulge in two of my favorite things: hour+ naps on Saturdays and Sundays and a weekly sports massage.

So, besides training (which is going well enough at this stage), the fundraising has also successfully kicked off. Using some different strategies this year, I will be doing some staggered fundraising to various groups, including family and friends. If you are reading about my challenge for the first time and haven't gotten the email/letter asking for support, no worries - you will!

Until then, feel free to show your support and donate to my challenge NOW!

www.justgiving.com/Holly-Young2012

Taking it one step at a time (literally....

Just sliding right through those holidays...

2011-11-01T14:59:00.001Z

Admittedly, I am a holiday enthusiast. Any reason for celebrating a holiday, and you can count me in. I just love a reason to celebrate!

Given that premise, you can understand my dismay when I arrived home last evening, armed with Halloween candy and ready to greet my trick-or-treaters with a hearty "Happy Halloween". Sadly, I had not one ghoul or goblin appear at my door.

Right... I know...Halloween is not the holiday in the UK that it is in the US, but still, even as I drove up to the house, I saw numerous kids in costume running up and down the street.

I had not even really registered the fact that Halloween had come and gone without a sound, and that there'd be no formal Thanksgiving hoopla in the UK, when I heard on the morning BBC news that Oxford street was lighting their Christmas lights this very evening.

Not sure what is more troubling: the fact that it is "officially" Christmas season in the UK or that I actually have 2 full tins of Halloween candy at my house.

I'll close with a "Bah humbug" as it appears this is the correct holiday statement to close with.

Changes to British Monarchy...about time!

2011-10-28T12:35:00.000+01:00

Sons and daughters of British monarchs will have an equal right to the throne under changes to the United Kingdom's succession laws agreed to on Friday.

Representatives of the Commonwealth of Nations approved the changes during a summit meeting; idividual governments of the 16 Commonwealth countries which have the Queen as head of state also must agree to the changes for them to take effect.

The changes would mean a first-born girl has precedence over a younger brother. They also mean that a future British monarch would be allowed to marry a Catholic.

The changes would apply to any future children of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who married this year.

Good on ya, Brits!

Fundraising for Cancer Research - 12 marathons in 12 months in 2012

2011-10-27T22:18:00.000+01:00

The two most important women in my life, the women who made the person I am today, were touched by cancer in significant ways. My mother, Nancy Sartain Robinson, lost her battle with breast, bone, and brain cancer at the early age of 48. My aunt, Dr. Peggy Sartain, who was like a second mother to me, successfully battled uterine cancer. More importantly, she served as Pediatric Oncologist at Children’s Medical Center, Dallas, Texas for 31 years, and touched the lives of thousands of children and their families who were affected by childhood cancer.

In memory of these remarkable women, I am running 12 marathons in 12 months in 2012. Basically, one marathon a month, starting with Marrakech in January, London in April, and 10 others sprinkled throughout the year.

I’ve set a massive fundraising goal for myself (£10,000) so please consider supporting my chosen charity, Cancer Research UK by donating through my JustGiving page. Donating this way is simple, fast and totally secure. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to Cancer Research UK and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation (for UK taxpayers only).

http://www.justgiving.com/Holly-Young2012

Please join me on my marathon journey and help to find a cure for this dreaded disease. Your support would be greatly appreciated!

Georgia Festival Chorus at Oxford

2011-10-10T17:31:00.000+01:00

I realize this group "came and went" much earlier this year, but the Budman and I had a great time catching up with Baylor friends AND seeing Oxford for the first time.

The Georgia Festival Chorus, founded in 1987 as the Cobb Festival Chorus by Frank Boggs, is a chorus of 100+ singers who have a far ranging repertoire of classics, anthems, hymns, spirituals, and folk songs. The choir routinely tours internationally as well as within the US and recently just completed a UK tour, which contained a performance at the Cathedral at Christ Church where we were honored to see and hear them perform.

So...what is our connection to the Georgia Festival Chorus? Simply put, the Budman and I became acquainted with the Boggs family through our own collegiate choir experience...the Baylor Religious Hour (BRH) Choir. During our stint in the choir, we had the pleasure of knowing (and singing) with Catherine, Frank's daughter. So, not only did we get to catch up with lifelong Baylor friends, we reminisced about BU and BRH.

It truly felt like "old home week", both seeing friends and catching up with their lives as well as listening to some very familiar choral pieces we have had the opportunity to sing ourselves. A truly lovely program including:

* Glorious is Thy Name, Mozart
* Create In Me, Oh God (Opus 29), Brahms
* Almighty God of Our Fathers, James
* Saul, Hovland
* Salvation Is Created, Tschesnokff
* The Majesty and Glory of Your Name, Fettke
* In This Very Room, Harris
* Redeemer of Israel, Lewis / Arr. Wilberg
* I Will Not Leave You Comfortless, Wm. Byrd
* Daniel in the Lion Den, Caldwell-Ivory
* His Voice as the Sound, Walker / Arr. Wilberg
* My Song in the Night, Arr. Wilberg
* My God, My Portion, & My Love, Lewis / Arr. Wilberg
* Amazing Grace, Newton / Arr. Wilberg
* Ev'rytime I Feel the Spirit, Arr. Dawson
* I Want Jesus To Walk With Me, Arr. Hogan
* Danny Boy / Londonerry Air, Arr. Flummerfelt
* Moses, Medema
* Total Praise, Smallwood / Arr. Williamson

Led by the capable director and singer, Frank Boggs, who we have known for over 30 years...

...the atmosphere was perfect for a concert and for reflection.

A special treat was to meet the youngest members of the Bogg clan.

While the highpoint of the trip was seeing friends and attending the concert, Budman and I did enjoy a quick walk about Oxford. What a pretty day....enjoy the tour!

Ashmolean Library

Bodlean

Out and about in Oxford

I've gone over to the dark side

2011-10-09T22:37:00.000+01:00

I have appropriately been accused of spelling my words with "Ss" and not "Zs"...guilty as charged.

Sad thing is, I don't even notice it anymore.

May Trip: Edinburgh and the marathon

2011-10-09T21:42:00.000+01:00

Nice problem to have....so many trips and not enough time to post. However, a quick note re: Marathon #14, Edinburgh; not the time I had hoped but a good run considering wind speeds were 30-35 mph from mile 17 onwards.

Hachie Gal will fight to run another day, however!

Being a fan of destination running, we took the opportunity to explore Edinburgh a bit prior to the race. First up, Edinburgh Castle....

Views of the amazing Edinburgh skyline.

The other exciting bit of the weekend involved that "pesky ash cloud" that raised its head again, delaying our departure out of Edinburgh by a day. No worries, as we checked into a lovely hotel called "The Witchery" that was FAB-U-LOUS! So, when can I make a return trip?

Virgin London Marathon

2011-09-29T21:36:00.000+01:00

Well, the news is in today...for the third year, I have not been successful in securing a ballot position on my own for the London Marathon next April.

No worries, I have 2 charities offering me a charity place....so am all set if I want to run.

As of now, the "12 in 12 in 2012" (12 marathons in 12 months in 2012 for those of you who missed the post) is officially in full swing with 7 marathons secured (Januuary through July). As soon as the other races open registration, I will be full steam ahead.

While we are on the subject of marathons, how about my gal, Paula Radcliffe, and her showing in the Berlin Marathon 10 days ago....placed 3rd and is definitely on the comeback trail for the Olympics.

call me crazy

2011-09-22T22:24:00.000+01:00

I know...I am SOOOOOOOOOOO out of touch. I mean, I totally missed all the FB hoopla on the new format and functionality. Guess I need to get a life b/c everyone else on the planet clearly was clued in.

Wacky, I know, but I was following those other big news stories of the day...Athens riots, Texas execution, release of the US Americans from Iran.

What was I thinking?

Hard to believe it has been a year

2011-09-22T22:17:00.000+01:00

A year has come and gone since the passing of my funny and smart aunt, Peggy. A day does not go by that I do not think of her or reach to pick up a phone to call her.

Thanks to everyone who remembered this special person today and the gift of healing she gave to others.

She was definitely one of a kind. I know she is up in heaven "flinging her green and gold afar"...

Fall semester is here

2011-09-20T22:22:00.000+01:00

I am not in school, but yet there is something about September that reminds me of the start of fall term. September kicks off everything....American football (which I desperately miss), the start of the return of cooler weather, the new fall TV line-up....even the start of fall choir.

The Chiswick Choir is no exception, and this fall, for our "big" work, we will be performing the Brahms Requiem...a personal favorite. There is a little concert in early October that is introducing me to a lovely new bummer crop of British composers that I have never sung, such as Cyril Bradley Rootham.

In his work "For the Fallen", I am reminded why I sing....a line from that work, "There is music in the midst of desolation...."

Indeed.

BBC Proms #38

2011-08-14T22:37:00.000+01:00

I always love the musical tributes to Hollywood - last Friday's prom was no exception. The program of famous film scoring was divine, with one major exception - who is Jonny Greenwood and has anyone ever seen Norwegian Wood? Nope, not me either.

* Scores from The Man Who Knew Too Much, Prelude: Citizen Kane, and Pyscho: A Narrative for Strong Orchestra - Bernard Herrman

* Cinema Paradiso - Ennio & Andrea Morricone, arranged by Angela Morley

* Henry V - Suite - William Walton, arranged by Muir Mathieson

* Scores from Star Wars, Title from Schindler's List, and Theme: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone - Hedwig's Theme - John Williams

* Norwegian Wood - Suite - Jonny Greenwood, arranged by Robert Ziegler

* Murder on the Orient Express - Overture, Waltz, and Finale - Sir Richard Rodney Bennett

* Scores from Out of Africa - Love Theme and On Her Majesty's Secret Service: The Music of James Bond

Sirens starting in Birmingham....

2011-08-09T17:03:00.000+01:00

Sitting in my hotel conference room...and the screeching sirens from police cars and fire trucks have already started rolling by....and it is not yet 5 pm...does not bode well for tonight...

For those interested...here is the scope of riots from last night.

Mob rule

2011-08-09T06:42:00.000+01:00

It was crazy for a third night in various parts of London, where mobs of youth "simply causing trouble" took to the streets to vandalize stores, set stores, homes, buses, and cars on fire, and terrorize citizens with their behavior. Total criminality.

Riot police were called to areas of Hackney, Clapham, Ealing, Lewisham, and Peckham overnight to try to bring order, but with little success before whole blocks burned down and looters carted away what they wanted for over 2 hours in some cases.

There seemed not to be enough police but one felt for the Met last night. Even the PM and London Mayor have flown home early from their holidays to meet this AM on a plan to get the riots under control. If anything, the riots were worse last night than any of the previous evenings, even after the Tottenham incident of a few nights ago.

It angers me to watch the city burning and general anarchy on TV as it is happening.

To all my London peops out there, "be safe"!

Happy Birthday to Me

2011-08-05T23:10:00.003+01:00

Thanks to all those family, friends, and colleagues who wished me well on my birthday. What a wonderful gift of love and friendship I received today!

FB Friend Requests

2011-08-05T10:56:00.000+01:00

Has everyone become as "strict" as me on accepting Facebook requests to people either (1) they don't know, or more importantly, (2) can't remember?

Don't get me wrong, I think FB is great for reconnecting to people in your past, i.e. high school, hometown neighborhood, college, first employer, etc.

I am continually perplexed though when I see a name and I think "Do I even know this person?" and "Do I accept a FB request when I am not sure I know this person" Sometimes, I try to look at the requester's friend list to give me a clue where in my past I might have known this person. Even that does not always solve the mystery. Then the inevitable...I sometimes feel a bit guilty for just a brief moment that my memory has gone blank. Or should I?

But only for a moment....then I decline the request.

Sorry if I have offended anyone b/c I "should've but didn't" remember you. Blame it on age :-)

BBC Proms #26

2011-08-04T08:44:00.000+01:00

A slighter cooler (only slightly) Royal Albert Hall was the venue once again of last night's Prom. A mixed program in my view, but then again, I will be the first to admit that the modernistic Dutilleux piece circa 1965 was not my forte. Still, the Ravel Bolero is always a crowd favorite and the Debussy opening piece just exquisite.

An entire French composer program included:

* Prelude a L'Apres-Midi d'un Faune - Claude Debussy
* Tout un Monde Lointain - Henri Dutilleux
* Bolero - Marcel Ravel
* Daphnis and Chloe - Maurice Ravel

BBC Proms #24

2011-08-03T11:54:00.000+01:00

A really nice Proms program...
beautiful music, with a gorgeous acapella rendition of Irish Tune from County Derry (i.e. Danny Boy).

Full program included:
* There is Sweet Music - Edward Elgar
* Violin Concerto in B Minor - Edward Elgar
* Irish Tune from County Derry - Percy Grainger
* Suite 'In a Nutshell' - Percy Grainger
* Till Eulenspiegels Lustige Streiche - Richard Strauss

Thank goodness the second half of the program was lively...the heat was SO heavy in the non A/C Gallery section...I almost gave up at the interval (intermission, for you Yanks) and headed home. My perseverance paid off.

Less than one year...

2011-08-03T11:34:00.000+01:00

It is less than year before the capital city of UK will be awash with Olympic fever....

So, how's the progress thus far?

* UK Olympic sites are either finished or on target to be ready in plenty of time for the events.

* Marketing for event tickets has been "smashing"...so much so, that only 700,000 people got any tickets with another 1.2 million people missing out altogether. From an event promoter perspective, the marketing worked. From an attendee perspective, kinda a bust.

* Everything now is about "Team GB". Athletes are participating in a vast array of world events as we speak, with an eye to the Olympic games next July. Almost reminds me of US Presidential elections...I have an entire year to "listen" to all things "Olympic"....ugh!

* every company seems to be an "official sponsor" of the London Olympics, i.e. "McDonald's is the official restaurant of the London 2012 Games." Don't get me wrong, thanks McD's for the sponsorship, but (1) are you really a "restaurant" and (2) most of the menu kinda flies in the face of healthy eating.

My personal favorite is the "advice" being given by employers to staff about how to deal with the inevitable transportation challenges, A YEAR BEFORE THE EVENT EVEN TAKES PLACE, including:

• Taking vacation around the Olympic games to avoid travelling.
• Working from home or relocating to other company office locations outside of the London area for the 6 week games period (Olympics and Paraolympics)
• Altering working hours to avoid busy times on the public transport system.
• Using alternative types of transport to get to work (e.g. walking or cycling).
• Changing the way you meet clients and partners - use video or web conferencing).

Great suggestions but somw a bit more possible that others (i.e. not planning on walking the 37 miles to work southward or 8 miles into central London)...

Personally..I like the vacation one the best...hmmm...sounds like a perfect excuse for a trip!

BBC Proms #20

2011-07-30T22:48:00.000+01:00

Before I launch into tonight's Proms review, a few queries from my Texas pals as to "How did the BBC Proms get their name?"

Well, the Proms began in 1895 when the founder-conductor Henry Wood decided to hold a series of concerts each year at a host of venues, including the Royal Albert Hall, to introduce the best of classical music to the widest possile audience in the UK. These concerts were named "The Henry Wood Promenade Concerts" and were presented by the BBC; the name was shortened through the years to BBC Proms.

Additionally, "prom" is short for promenade concert, a term which originally referred to outdoor concerts in London's pleasure gardens, where the audience was free to stroll around while the orchestra was playing. Promming now refers to the use of the standing areas inside the hall (the arena and gallery) for which ticket prices are much lower than for the reserved seating). Yep...that is where we are for each concert.

That said, tonight's concert was FAB!!!!! Program as follows:

* Don Juan, Op. 20 - Richard Strauss
* Violin Concerto - William Walton
* Alexander Nevsky - Cantata, Op. 78 - Sergey Prokofiev
* Salome, Op. 54 - Dance of the Seven Veils - Richard Strauss

Not only was the program well performed by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, but the highlight of the program was the guest violinist, Midori! Such tenderness in her playing. A solid program all way 'round.

BBC Proms #19

2011-07-29T23:11:00.002+01:00

I sorta suspected that it might turn out this way, but as the concert started, less than half the seats were full. A light, and perhaps less than mainstream, program at tonight's BBC Proms was probably the culprit:

* Pacific 231 - Honegger
* Pastoral d'ete - Honneger
* There is a Willow Grows Aslant a Brook - Bridge
* Der Wein - Berg
* Inverno in-ver - Castiglioni
* La Mer - Debussy

Surprisingly, my musical knowledge did not extend to Honegger; it was a pleasant surprise. Sadly, not so for the other selections...and a long night in the cheap seats.

Had Debussy's La Mer not been last on the program, we'd been outta there. Need something meaty for this later this weekend...perhaps Sunday night's Rachmaninov?

BBC Proms #10

2011-07-22T22:54:00.000+01:00

Two nights in a row...kinda like wearing the yellow jersey (Tour de France reference)...and we were headed back to the Royal Albert Hall for Proms #10.

First, the program....let's just say, it was interesting but did not light my fire tonight, although I am personally a Debussy and Ravel fan.

* Images - Gigues - Debussy
* Rapsodie Espagnole - Ravel
* Images - Rondes de Printemps - Debussy
* Alborada del Gracioso - Ravel
* Nights in the Gardens of Spain - Falla
* Images - Iberia - Debussy

Secondly, I am a quick learner. Following last evening's gallery seating (or standing as is the case), I fell into the BBC Proms Season Ticket Holder routine quite nicely. Into the RAH I walked tonight with my stadium seating pads (i.e. Wimbledon branded, I might add), my munchies for the concert picked up enroute to the concert at my local Pret, and into the queue I assembled. "Early bird catches the worm pays off" as I had front and center standing spots at the gallery railing. Yes!

Only one small process improvement: pack the opera glasses for the next performance.

Tower of London Ceremony of the Keys

2011-07-22T15:31:00.000+01:00

A little known event, known as the Ceremony of the Keys happens every day at the Tower of London, come rain or shine, in peace time or periods of war...

The Ceremony of the Keys is the traditional locking up of the Tower of London and has taken place on each and every night, without fail, for at least 700 years. The importance of securing this fortress for the night is still very relevant because, although the Monarch no longer resides at this royal palace, the Crown Jewels and many other valuables still do!

Thus, on one evening earlier this summer, the Budman and I, along with about 100 other Londoners (yes, I can myself as one of them now) walked alongside our Beefeater Yeoman Warder and observed the pomp and ceremony of this nightly ritual, including the same questions asked for centuries...

Guard 1: "Who goes there"?

Guard 2: "The keys."

Guard 1: "Whose keys?"

Guard 2: "The Queen's Keys."

etc....

If you ever get a chance to attend, the ceremony lasts about 45 minutes and is quite iinteresting.

BBC Proms 2011

2011-07-22T02:58:00.006+01:00

Decided to acquire the Proms Season Tickets again this year, but thus far, have only been able to get to the first one of the season, Prom 9. Lovely program of composers I was not well acquainted with - a summer evening well spent:

Scenes Historiques - Suite No. 2 - Sibelius
Symphony No. 7 in C Major - Sibelius
Piano Concerto No. 3 - Bartok
Sinfonietta - Janacek

Besides the lovely program, two ah-ha moments.

(1) I clearly purchased the wrong season tickets this year...how does one intend to buy floor seats and end up with gallery standing only seats? No clue, but I did.

(2) Once I climbed the 5 levels to the top of the Royal Albert Hall, I realized that I was with a different caliber of folk. Not good or bad...just different. Apparently, these people were packing for either hiking to Base Camp Level 1 or intended to overnight it at the RAH for tomorrow's BBC Prom #10. These folks had brought air mattresses, rugs, blankets, pillows, coolers, food and wine, etc. Many reclined in full horizontal position, shoes off, eyes closed...

it was downright odd.

Business travel...never would've thunk it...

2011-07-14T22:04:00.003+01:00

....so you think my business travel destinations are glamorous? Try Ivory Coast and Nigeria on for size!

Yea, that is what I thought....!

March Trip: Lisbon's Castelo de Sao Jorge

2011-07-11T17:25:00.001+01:00

I know...it is a nice problem to have. We are travelling so much, I can't keep up with downloading of the photos from the camera, uploading to them flickr, and posting updates to the blog.

That said, March's trip took us to Lisbon for a very temperate weekend in this lovely city in Portugal. Great time all round; although we took a slightly more leisurely pace that the Budman and Hachie Gal are apt to do and did not make it to Sentra.

So, the sights of Lisbon...first up, the Castelo de Sao Jorge, including the battlements, castle, the cobbled streets of Santa Cruz, and the wonderful views of Lisbon from the observation terrace.

A little history might be in order. Following the recapture of Lisbon from the Moors in 1147, King Alfsonso Henriques transformed the hilltop citadel into the residence for the Portuguese kings. A more lavish palace was built in 1511 but an earthquake in 1755 (apparently a really big one b/c there are references to almost total destruction to Lisbon and its buildings everywhere in the city) caused the palace to lay in ruins for almost 200 years. Restoration began in 1938 and voila!

Next round of Olympic Ticket Purchase

2011-07-08T09:18:00.000+01:00

Technically, it has been round 2 and 3 of the London Olympic 2012 ticket purchase. Sadly, because I received a "single" pair of gymnastics tickets in Round 1, I was not eligible for the "first come, first serve" Round 2 ticket purchase. Not complaining, too loudly any way, as I know there were many people who did not receive a single thing in the first round.

So, as Round 3 opens today, only tickets to Football (soccer for you Yanks), volleyball, and wrestling events remain. Think I need to take a pass and hope something comes available in the "friends and family" category, as I scored an additional 2 pairs of tickets through that route.

So, let the games begin...next year.

12 in 12 in 12

2011-07-07T17:07:00.000+01:00

What?

I figured I needed to put it out there...into cyberspace...to make it real for me, although I think I have already bought it into it, both literally and mentally.

Next year's running goal is defined:

12 marathons in 12 months in 2012.

The selected race list is as follows:

* January - Marrakesh, Morocco
* February - Seville, Spain
* March - Rome, Italy
* April - London or Vienna,Austria
* May - Prague, Czech Republic
* June - Midnight Sun Marathon, Tromso, Norway
* July - Koenig's Marathon, Fussen, Germany
* August - Reykjavik, Iceland
* September - Berlin, Germany
* October - Amsterdam, NL or Dublin, Ireland
* November - Athens, Greece (home of the original marathon) or French Riviera Marathon (Nice to Cannes)
* December - Lisbon, Portugal

I know, I know, I know. Already heard it.

Reason: (1) because they're there, (2) I'm a fan of destination running and (3) have a huge charity fundraising goal mapped out/

Can I count on your support?

Happy 4th

2011-07-06T19:41:00.000+01:00

There was no day of, no Texas style BBQ or cookout (although the two Texas Gals, Cyn and Hachie Gal, did share a meal of Spanish tapas), but we did at least get out "Old Glory" at the London house....well, little Old Glory that is.

Was with ya'll in spirit!

Another Wimbledon come and gone

2011-07-06T10:27:00.000+01:00

One of the things I have loved about living in London is being "in town" when Wimbledon takes place. Not only can I watch the matches real-time on TV, albeit not as frequently as I would like (that pesky work thing gets in the way), but I have been able to visit the site of "THE" most famous tennis tournament in the world.

Entrance to Wimbledon All England Lawn Tennis Club.

Center court.

Courtside.

Nadal.

Djokovic.

Sidenote: I kinda feel like a parent who takes alot of photos of the "first born" and then not as many of the second child. Downloaded my photos and found I had far more of Nadal than Djokovic.

One more thing off the bucket list...next one of interest, see the Tour de France.

enough of Pippa

2011-07-06T09:51:00.000+01:00

I get that she is the new Duchess of Cambridge's sister. She is cute enough, pleasant enough. Unlike the rest of the world, I was not gob-smacked by the bridesmaid's dress although the green formal dress was a lovely color and looked good on her.

But really...I am already drowning in a sea of "Pippa overdose". I realize part of it is most of it is not her fault but everywhere I turn in the UK, I see "Pippa". I understand it is worse in the US.

And if it hasn't gotten crazy enough, Pippa has even been offered a slot on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing (the UK version of Dancing with the Stars). Apparently, the term "celebrity" is defined quite broadly now.

Large print

2011-06-30T18:39:00.000+01:00

Question: What does it say when I have to use the "large print" London tube map?

Answer: I think I know and I don't like the answer.

a few not not alot

2011-06-23T23:04:00.000+01:00

Olympic ticket updates...although I applied for £1800 of Olympic tickets through the online lottery system, I cane up almost empty. Actually, I received 2 tickets for an early round of gymanstics; in other words, about £80 worth of tickets.

No one I have met has fared much better. In all but one other case, no one I know that applied for tickets received any...zero...nada...nothing. Guess I should be happy I landed got the tickets I did.

That said, within less than 4 hours of notification of my mostly unsuccessful ticket ballot attempt, I was offered another set of gymnastics and a pair of men's volleyball set of tickets, increasing my total London 2012 Olympics ticket tally to three events.

Clearly the friends and family approach is a better route...let you know how I fare in round 2 which commences tomorrow.

Ginger 1993-2011

2011-06-03T08:31:00.000+01:00

Ginger, had more than 9 lives...she had at least double that. Her warrior spirit kept going as each new health issue arose; she was a bit like that Energizer Bunny. She just kept on ticking.

After 18 years however, the little body just gave out. Rest in peace, "Sweet Kitty"!

Yea, that little yellow kitty liked to sleep!

T-2 days: Edinburgh marathon

2011-05-20T13:18:00.000+01:00

I have done all the training, eating, stretching, etc. I can do for the last 5 months. The race is here. Wish me luck!

Catch you on the flip side.

Chiswick Choir: Mozart, 1791 – His Last Year

2011-05-20T13:11:00.000+01:00

On April 9, 2011, I was finally able to return to singing with my choir, the Chiswick Choir, after a break in 2010, and participate in the concert entitle: Mozart, 1791- His Last Year.

1791 saw the composition of four of Mozart's most sublime works; the Clarinet Concerto, the opera La Clemenza di Tito (The Mercy of Titus), the singspiel Die Zauberflöte (The Magic Flute) and his unfinished Requiem Mass. It is well known that Mozart's widow, Constanze, took pains to have the Requiem completed in order to receive the promised fee. Two full concert performances of the opera were given in her own 'benefit' concerts, with all the musicians and singers donating their services.

The evening's program included:

* The La Clemenza di Tito (excerpts)
* Missa da Requiem

My entourage for this evening's concert included the Budman, Confused Swiss, and Martini. Thanks guys for the support!

February Trip: Markets

2011-05-20T13:03:00.000+01:00

We spent our last day in Lyon exploring the various markets: food (of course!), flower, book, and art markets. Everyone was out and about doing their weekly shopping....

This was our last and final meal...we ate our way down one side of the river to the other...and shopping a little along the way.

February Trip: we just ate our way through that city

2011-05-20T12:52:00.000+01:00

As if our dinner meals were not enough, we snacked our way through that city at every opportunity. See what I mean?

February Trip: Puppets

2011-05-20T12:32:00.001+01:00

Guignol is the most famous puppet ever to have been created, and he was created in Lyon in 1908 by Laurent Mourguet. The creation of this puppet inspired the street theatre tradition that quickly bloomed across the city with Guignol and his many friends.

Monument to Guignol, Theatra Guignol, and Laurent Mourguet.

Suffice to say, the city was awash in puppets.

Even the local street art market carried the puppet theme into its works.

February Trip: the man known as Bocuse

2011-05-20T12:23:00.002+01:00

Well, as if the Friday one-star Michelin restaurant located in our hotel was not enough to satisfy the "foodie" in us both, the "piece de la resistance" awaited us on Saturday evening. The man and his restaurant: Paul Bocuse.

http://www.bocuse.fr/accueil.aspx

Who is he? Paul Bocuse (born 11 February 1926) is a French chef, based in Lyon, famous for the high quality of his restaurants and his innovative approaches to cuisine. He is one of the most prominent chefs associated with the "nouvelle cuisine", which is touted as less opulent and calorific than the traditional classical French cuisine (not sure I personally experienced that on this evening) and stresses the importace of freshest quality ingredients.

Side note: Paul Bocuse was honored as the "Chef of the Century" by NYC's Culinary Institute of America in March of this year, about a month after our visit.

Although not a milestone b-day for the Budman, still a reason to celebrate; thus, we trundled off on Saturday evening to a 4 1/2 hour meal consisting of 10 courses.

A photo with the Monsiuer Bocuse - too charming!

Without further ado, our selections:

MENU GRANDE TRADITION CLASSIQUE

Bocuse appetizers for the table - potpourri of little morsels

Scallop of Foie Gras, pan-cooked and served with verjus sauce

Truffle Soupe V.G.E.

(dish created for the French President in 1975)

Filey of Sole with noodles, "a la Ferand Point"

Beuajois Winemaker's Sherbert

Bress Chicken cooked in a bladder "a la Mere Filloux"

Selection of fresh and matured cheeses from "La Mer Richard"

Delicacies and Tempations

(every kind of possible dessert - over different 24 options)

Fantasies and Chocolates

The cheese bladder before puncture.

Cheese board....take what you want. Budman is flagging at the point and passes, but the Hachie Gal's gastronomique marathon is in full force, and she surges ahead with selections from the cheese tray. This is definitely known as "hitting the wall" to use a running term.

About half of the desserts we actually were able to choose from...and we could have had one of everything if we'd wanted. I counted over 24 different desserts options.

Singing "happy birthday" to the Budman with the organ grinder in the background. Charming!

As if 10 courses were not enough food, including the dessert tray featured above, Budman then got his own birthday cake. Now, we are really groaning with aching stomaches.

At last, the taxi awaits us to take us back to our hotel...we are gorged!

February Trip: Lyon Traboules

2011-05-20T11:26:00.000+01:00

Traboules are a type of passageway primarily associated with the city of Lyon, but are also located in a few other French cities as well. In Lyon, they were originally used by silk manufacturers and other merchants to transport their products.

The first examples of traboules are thought to have been built in Lyon in the 4th century. Lacking water, the inhabitants moved to the banks of the Saône River where the traboules allowed them to quickly get from their homes to the river as well as allowed the silk workers on the La Croix-Rousse hill to get quickly from their workshops to the textile merchants at the foot of the hill. Thus, most of the traboules in Lyon are located primarily in the 'old city' (5th arrondissement) and the Croix Rousse (1st and 4th arrondissements).

The layout of Vieux Lyon is such that there are very few connecting streets running perpendicular to the river. The traboules allowed workmen and craftsmen to transport clothes and other textiles through the city while remaining sheltered from inclement weather. For many inhabitants, being a "true Lyonnais" requires being knowledgeable about the city's traboules.

Nowadays, traboules are tourist attractions, and over forty are free and open to the public. Most traboules are on private property, serving as entrances to local apartments. Many, if not most, of the underground passages have been blocked off and are currently used as storage areas.

Interesting factoid: The traboules in Lyon are often credited with helping prevent the occupying Germans from taking complete control of Lyon during World War II as the local inhabitants scrambled through these narrow passageways, allowing resistance fighters to do great damage.

February Trip: Lyon night shots

2011-05-20T10:54:00.000+01:00

Those of you who know us well need no explanation.

February Trip: Lyon

2011-05-20T10:32:00.000+01:00

The trip of month retrospective is long overdue and I am way behind in posting updates. The main reason for this is that I have been too busy to download photos as the trips are coming in rapid succession. One of the more pleasant downsides of lots of travel. I know, I know. You Texans are shaking your heads.

Anyway, to celebrate the Budman's b-day in February, we decided it was to be a foodie weekend in a country known for its gastronomy, France.

Where else to head? No, not Paris, but Lyon!

Lyon, the second largest city is France, was founded by the Roman Empire in 43 BC, when it was established as Lugdonum and used as a major Roman fortress. The site of Lyon was actually inhabited long before this time during the Bronze Age, but the town’s structure was put in place by the Romans.
Many Roman ruins and sights can be seen today.

Christianity was subsequently introduced into France (known as Gaul at the time) through Lyon and the centre was ruled by archbishops for centuries. Many beautiful churches, including Church of Saint-Nizier, and other buildings offer an array of gothic, romanesque, baroque, and classical architecture.

Lyon really took off in the 15th century, when it became the European trade capital and attracted traders from all over Europe and even Asia. At the time, Lyon’s trade fairs were the talk of Europe after being granted by Charles VII and later Louis XI. The city achieved new heights of prosperity in the 17th and 18th centuries owing to the brilliance and cunning of Louis XIV and its textile industry.

Today, the city is known for its temperate weather, even in February and its food, wine, and restaurants. More on that in next blog. After all, that is why we travelled to Lyon!

London 2012 Olympic Ticket Upate

2011-05-19T11:24:00.001+01:00

OK, so I totally caved in and spent the better part of one day mapping out my Olympic ticket strategy, events, and locations before entering the ticket ballot process for the London 2012 Olympics. An exercise in logistics management if ever I saw one.

I will refrain from admitting to the total cost of tickets for which I submitted an entry but suffice to say it will be a chunk of change if I get all my requests. I based my logic on the fact that I have the worst luck in ticket ballots known to mankind, and rarely ever obtain the tickets I endeavor to purchase. That said, I am conscious that I could be "too successful" in this ballot process, and will quickly be converting next year's vacation into a "stay-cation" if my tickets requests all pan out.

UK Olympic organizers state that all ballot entrants will be told by June 24 if any tickets will be awarded so they will only have use of my funds for about 4 weeks before they say "yea/nay" to my requests. I put into for the usual suspects: opening and closing ceremonies, track and field, gymnastics, swimming, and diving, as well as for equestrian, basketball, and cycling.

At this point, the Budman and I are an affirmed "no" to rhythmic gymnastics, synchronized swimming, archery, and table tennis. Suppose I ought not to "diss" these sports before I find out if I got my other ticket choices. Worst case scenario, I can at least see the women and men's marathons live.

Happy to report....

2011-05-18T17:30:00.000+01:00

...that all was safe in the UK yesterday, in light of earlier rumors of terrorist bomb plots related to the Queen's visit to Ireland. There were a few odd security concerns in central London (and Ireland as well) but for the most part, London rolled merrily along. So much so, that for the first time in a year, there were no delays on tubes, trains, or highways during rush hour.

A side benefit to the £26 million security bill for the event....tax money at work.

some things are universal

2011-05-11T20:15:00.000+01:00

I don't care what country or culture you hail from....nose-picking in a team meeting is just plain wrong.
No, not shaking that hand!

Royal wedding: my viewing point

2011-05-05T18:21:00.000+01:00

Thanks for all the emails and cards I received from friends outside of the UK inquiring on my plans for attending the Royal Wedding. You are a clever lot, and I have heard it all more than a few times (wink-wink):

* My invitation to the wedding must have been lost in the mail; hence why the Budman and I watched the ceremony live on TV with 2 billion other global guests...happily ensconced from the sunny and warm haven of Provence.

* Yes, my wedding hat must be gorgeous; in fact, I did not need a hat for the royal wedding (see bullet above). I am happy report that my stash of hats has multiplied dramatically for other events since living in London.

* No, I am not planning on camping out overnight on the Mall to stake my claim for a slab of concrete so I can view the wedding couple's carriage return from the Abbey.

* Yes, I thought the "Duchess of Canterbury's" dress was lovely.

* Yes, I loved the John Rutter choral piece that was sung: my choral friends were particularly interested in knowing my reaction this since Rutter is personal favorite of mine.

* No, not planning on serving tea, scones, or finger sandwiches while I am watching the royal wedding on TV.

* And finally, NO, I was not planning on buying any Royal Wedding souvenir paraphernalia, but then I spied a spoof t-shirt in Aix-en-Provence on the wedding day, and say, "sure, what the heck!"

Before you think I am a bit cold-hearted about the royal wedding fever in London, rest assured, I scrambled (from France) to set the Sky recorder via my IPhone minutes before coverage of the ceremony began. Monday afternoon, I ensconced myself on the sofa for the full replay.

the whole Bin Laden thing

2011-05-05T14:16:00.001+01:00

Watching the images of the Bin Laden event unfold this week, I must second the quote of another (and shared with me by Cyn).

“Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that."

~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

Pretty much sums it up for me. Chapter closed.

A Week in Provence

2011-04-26T21:27:00.000+01:00

It has been a place I have wanted to visit for years, especially after reading Peter Mayle's A Year in Provence, but for some reason, the timing was never right (those 6 years in Asia kinda got in the way, too). Finally, we are here in this divine place.

And can I say for the record, that this is in fact, the first vacation place I have visited that I could actually retire to? I already hear the groans in "The Hachie" as I admit to this in writing. Honestly, I think any concerns are unfounded at this juncture but one can dream.

So, what have our first few days of glorious French Provencal vacationing been like? Well, still a little too much discipline to the work emails and the marathon training, but a marked improvement to this time last week, I am happy to report. To quote Jim K., "more play, less work". Amen, brother!

Pictures and stories of the charming places we visited will follow, but let me be your senses for just a moment a provide a sampling of the first few morning runs I have experienced in Provence:

* the rustle of tree leaves in the wind on a cool spring morning
* big puffy white clouds in a sky of baby blue, with the early morning rays of peaches and golden yellows peaking through the clouds
* gurgling brooks that meander through farmlands...yes, brooks in fact do gurgle
* the tinkle of bells around the necks of sheep being led by herders from one pasture to the next, and the occasional herding dogs barking their commands to wayward sheep
* the smell of antique rose buses, wild wisteria, and acres and acres of blooming peonies...fragrant mornings beyond compare
* and while we are on the subject of fragrant mornings beyond compare, the sweet little light brown donkeys (and their fragrant byproducts) who meander over to the fence as I run buy...those big brown eyes following me intently as I run up and down the farm road. Somehow, I don't mind the smell....
* the beautiful white Camarque horses that dot the landscape of every other farm, manes flowing in the wind
* the mist on the the fields after a hard night's rain that rises gently skyward as the morning dawns
* and my personal favorite....wild red poppies....bobbing their heads in the wind everywhere I turn, as if they know that red is my favorite color and they are personally greeting me to this corner of the world

I could go on and on but you'd just accuse me of making this up. As I said in an earlier facebook post, I am living a Monet painting this week.

Dubai bound...

2011-04-14T15:59:00.000+01:00

Work beckons...UAE calling. Just as I was getting that seat assignment confirmed for the UAE flight, this came into my inbox: UK man beaten in Dubai for swearing.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1376649/British-tourist-Lee-Bradley-Brown-beaten-death-Dubai-police-cell.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

Not that I intend to be a troublemaker (after all, "troublemaker" has never been my middle name), but if there was any doubt, I will just watch my "p's and q's".

Thank you very much.

A Day Without Shoes

2011-04-05T09:13:00.001+01:00

Please join millions of global citizens who will be participating in One Day Without Shoes - an opportunity to raise the awareness of others that are less fortunate both here and abroad. Thank you Blake Mycoskie/Tom's Shoes for spearheading the event.

http://www.onedaywithoutshoes.com/learn-more

I am actually doing this in London....It is so HARD!

the first of two comments on UK inefficiency....

2011-04-05T08:59:00.000+01:00

Effective yesterday, the cost of a first class stamp in the UK rose 5 pence to £0.46, the single largest price increase ever on record. For you yanks, that is the equivalent of $0.74 for a single first class US stamp.

Rationale for the price hike according to a Royal Mail Spokesperson: " With the sharp declines in mail volume - a 20% fall in five years - our revenues are falling. That means if we don't generate more income, we will simply not be able to keep funding our six-days-a-week collection, sorting, transport and delivery operation to the UK's 28 million homes and businesses. Royal Mail lost £16.3 million on stamped mail in the last financial year. This is equivalent to a 6.4p loss on average on every stamped item, which the price hikes should go towards covering."

Now a comment from the peanut gallery: I have painfully witnessed first hand the inner workings of the Royal Mail operation - too many free standing post offices, lack of technology modernization (who hand peels stamps off a sheet and gives to customers - why am I even "licking stamps"), bureaucracy in the pick-up of mail and parcels (akin to the Abbott and Costello gag, "Who's on First" - no one ever seems to want to own up as to where I can pick up a package).

I could go on, but I won't. Suffice to say, I only foresee mail volumes continuing to drop with the increase use of online ecards and other technology. Sure, there will always be a need for "snail mail", but as volumes decrease (as they inevitable will), will price hikes be the best way to address that. Doubt it...shouldn't Royal Mail be getting to the root problem?

Sorry, this change consultant just can't help herself sometimes.

Is it a sign I am too old?

2011-03-31T10:02:00.000+01:00

One of the things that has always been on my bucket list is to attend an Olympics...somewhere...summer or winter....does not matter. Now, for the first time in my life, the Summer 2012 Olympic Games are being held in London, right in my own backyard.

I should be thrilled right...to cross that milestone off the list? All I can think of, however, is the onslaught of tourists, the tube congestion, and the exploding population over those 4-6 weeks period. Is this a sign I am getting stodgy and set in my ways? Shouldn't I be thrilled to partake in the spirit and camaraderie of the Olympics?

As the email notifications hit this week that it is time to state your preferences for tickets, I am vacillating on whether to even submit an entry because I don't the hassle factor x 10...I know, that is just plain sad.

Normally, I am a "glass half full" kinda of gal....

1000 post mark

2011-03-31T09:52:00.003+01:00

Not sure I even considered that I would ever hit the 1000 posts on the Travels of a Texas Glas blog milestone...but I did.

Thanks for following.

Sic 'Em Bears

2011-03-29T06:55:00.002+01:00

Those Baylor ladies are on a roll - next game is Tuesday evening, 8 pm CDT in Dallas against Texas A&M. Can this NCAA number 2 ranked ladies basketball team reign victorious? Hope so but the bigger question is whether I can find the game broadcast in London, which will be at approximately 2 AM London time...I am on the case, though.

March against cuts?

2011-03-28T19:53:00.000+01:00

About 250,000 UK citizens decided to march in London last Saturday in protest against the cuts proposed by the UK government. Organized by the TUC, a UK union,the event entitled "March for the Alternative" was billed as a family event whereby people could peacefully state their objections to a whole range of nationwide cuts that are only now starting to be felt across the country.

The main point of view by protesters, as they peacefully marched through Westminster, past the Houses of Parliament and along Embankment, was intended to show ministers that many people no longer believe that budget cuts to education, jobs, pensions, health care, social programs, etc.are the cure for the UK's economic ills.

Now while I am all for the "power of the people" to demonstrate and raise their collective voices, there are inevitably the small minority of ruffians, hooligans, miscreants...you pick the term, that have to take the opportunity to create havoc for the sake of creating havoc. Which is precisely what happened around Trafalgar Square for most of Saturday afternoon and evening. Businesses were damaged, windows destroyed, fires lit, bottles thrown against police and general passers-by caught in the wrong place at the wrong time....for no real apparent reason, except that "they could".

Nope...I was happy to pass and stay put west London. Thank you very much.

Thought I'd missed it

2011-03-24T10:45:00.000Z

Not that the world would come to an end, but for some reason I woke up with a start this morning thinking I had missed that "fabulous" event known as Eurovision.Whew....the dates are actually May 10-14th as opposed to last weekend (which I thought had been the case). Who'd ever suspected this Texas gal would be an annual follower?

Sure, I'll be a homer this year and root for my host country, the UK. Pretty safe bet, as they could finish no worse than they did last year....dead last out of 43 countries.

Earth Hour Blackout 2011

2011-03-21T10:51:00.005Z

Not heard of it? Listen up!

From London to Sydney, New York and Singapore, people across the world will be joining together on March 26th to switch off their lights for one hour. The initiative, which began in 2007 in Sydney and is sponsored by WWF, encourages homes, businesses and landmarks in more than 130 participating countries to switch off their lights at 8.30pm on Saturday.

It’s a reminder to us all that we only have one planet Earth and it’s an urgent message that we want to reduce the impact our energy system has on that planet. So, for all my friends and family members living around the globe, let me encourage you to pull out some candles on Saturday and switch off your lights, have a candlelight dinner party, or just eat out under the stars ....

For more information and to register as a participant in the event,

http://earthhour.wwf.org.uk/about_earth_hour/aboutearthhour/

Happy Red Nose Day

2011-03-18T14:46:00.000Z

First...Happy Red Nose Day to you all!

What the heck, you say? Red Nose Day is a celebrated day in the UK, usually every other year, on which the Comic Relief organisation encourages the public to engage in fundraising for charity. Comic Relief is a charity, founded in the United Kingdom in 1988 by the comedy scriptwriters Richard Curtis and Alexander Mendis in response to famine in Ehtiopia.

Local and national fundraising occurs the weeks leading up to the highlight of Comic Relief's appeal is in a biennial telethon. For you yanks, think Jerry Lewis' MDA Telethon and you get kinda close to the concept.

The charity states that its aim is to "bring about positive and lasting change in the lives of poor and disadvantaged people, which we believe requires investing in work that addresses people's immediate needs as well as tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice.

One of the fundamental principles behind working at Comic Relief is the "Golden Pound Principle" where every single donated pound (£) is spent on charitable projects. All operating costs, such as staff salaries, are covered by corporate sponsors (BBC, Sainsbury's and British Telecom) are covered by corporate sponsors, or interest earned on money waiting to be distributed. In 2009, £80 Million pounds was raised.

The most prominent symbol of Comic Relief is a plastic/foam "red nose", which is given in various supermakrets and charity shops such as Oxfam in exchange for a donation to the charity and to make others laugh. People are encouraged to wear the noses on Red Nose Day to help raise awareness of the charity.

So, there you have it...and my friend Cyn led the pack on her fundraising through her bake sale activities...stylish red nose and t-shirt!

Bob's Big 80th

2011-03-18T14:19:00.000Z

Yea, I am just a tad bit behind the posting of Q1 photos, but a quick review of January would not be complete without a whirlwind 3 1/2 day trip back to Dallas for Bob's 80th B-day celebration. A lovely weekend filled with family, friends, good memories and TWO great meals!

A special thanks to Amy for the Friday night Pappas celebratory event.

Bob, here's to another 80!

St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T15:25:00.002Z

Almost forget...it is in fact St. Patrick's Day today. I would not have remembered the holiday had it not been for a St. Patrick's Day greeting card sent to me from the US. It is just not the celebrated event in London that it is in the US.

Still, from my favorite leprechaun and me to you and yours:

An Old Irish Blessing

May love and laughter light your days,

and warm your heart and home.

May good and faithful friends be yours,

wherever you may roam.

May peace and plenty bless your world

with joy that long endures.

May all life's passing seasons

bring the best to you and yours!

January trip: Oslo

2011-03-17T13:11:00.000Z

The first entrant in the 2011 trip-of-the-month club was Oslo, Norway. In a word: cold and snowy but a beautiful country, and one I am keen to revisit in the summer.

When asked by the Norwegian Immigration official, "What brings you to Norway?", I answered, "the snow". And that is the truth...I missed all the hullabalou with the London Christmas snow and felt left out. He just grinned and chuckled, most assuredly thinking, "crazy American!"

Our main sites for this trip included the:

* Nobel Peace Prize Center (fascinating),
* Oslo harbor known as Oslo harbor, Aker Brygge,
* Oslo Radhus (Oslo City Hall) where the Nobel Peace Prize is given out each year
* Olso Domkirke
* National Gallery
* Akershus Fortress, although it was not open for touring in January
* City walk that included Parliament and the Royal Palace

A photo retrospective for your viewing pleasure, but sadly, the recent photo debacle meant that about half of my photos from Oslo were lost. Now there is another reason to go back!

Winter scenes on a train.

View of Oslo from hotel.

Oslo harbor, Aker Brygge.

Nobel Peace Prize Center.

Oslo City Hall.

Oslo Domkirke.

Walking around in snowy Oslo.

Norwegian Parliament.

Now, those Norwegians know how a little something about moving snow and ice.

Addendum to trip of the month

2011-03-17T12:09:00.000Z

Upon further reflection, I am not sure I can say that 2010 was actual such a travel-free year, as reflected by the following trips:

* The Cotswolds, UK
* Marrakesh Morocco
* Bath, UK
* Windsor, UK
* Mallorca Spain
* Cairo Egypt
* Dover, UK
* Bahrain

Kenya can't really count in the list because I was only there for less than 24 hours on business, but I love those AA points!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Still, there is room for improvement (smile and a wink!)

Trip of the month club

2011-03-17T11:50:00.000Z

Some people participate in the "fruit-of-the-month" or "book-of-the month" clubs...so taking that concept and applying it to one of my favorite past-times, the Budman and I have adopted the "trip-of-the-month" club for 2011.

Before I provide you with the trip-of-the-month club parameters, I realize someone reading this blog post will probably think I was referring to another one of my favorite activities, marathoning. Just to be clear, I in fact did run a marathon once a month for a period of 5 months, known as the Texas Challenge, but I realize I just don't have the "once a month marathon" in my gene make-up.

Given the downturn in 2010 travel, the Budman and I decided to make amends for that trend in 2011 by:

* taking at least one trip a month in a 12 month calendar year
* home trips to DFW/Waxahachie don't count
* bonus: trips where the AA or BA flight status can be maintained jump to the head of the queue for consideration

I am happy to report..."so far, so good". In January, the winter wonderland of Oslo Norway beckoned us and in February, the gastronomy capital of France, Lyon, easily put 5 pounds on us in one weekend. Coming up in March, sunny Lisbon, which is perfect because I am ready for spring weather and sunshine and London is only partially complying to date.

Photos to follow.

major photo meltdown

2011-03-15T10:23:00.000Z

It was going to envitably happen...mainly b/c the Home Office PA (a.k.a. Hachie Gal)is the only one who downloads photos from the camera and does the back-up. Events in 2010 meant that the normal photo back-up precautions were not always adhered to. For the record, the Home Office PA is more than happy to get fired, get her pink slip, be made redundant. I no longer really want that job, but looks like I'm stuck with it for a bit.

Back to the subject of today's post. Long story short, there was accidental deletion of many of the 2010 travel, London, and family/friends photos from May through November of last year. Through the miracle of hard drive back-up and Flickr however, I was able to restore 90% of these photos. It just irks me that things like Wimbledon, Cyn and Paulster's Wedding, and all of the London summer events were lost.

Hey - somebody needs to can that Home Office PA. Oh right, already mentioned that.

Movie Fest

2011-03-14T07:11:00.006Z

Think Inwood Theatre and you are not far off. Riverside Studios is a live theatre and cinema venue, with a little live art and a restaurant thrown in for good measure. Of specific interest to me are the art house films, foreign films, and second run showings of quality films (often independent) shown in a quirky warehouse feel of a studio right next to the Thames and about 10 minutes by tube from my house.

Check them out if interested: www.riversidestudios.co.uk

Given that Sunday was technically "a rest day" from running, I could think of no better way to stay off the legs than hit a movie...a triple feature at that. Cyn and I decided to take in the Swedish films known as the Millennium Trilogy (a.k.a. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played With Fire, The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest. Of course in Swedish subtitles, but for some reason, I had thought the films had been made in English. Sorry, Cyn!

As we stumbled bleary-eyed and "rear-end weary" from the theatre after our 10 hour Swedish Film Festival, I happy to report that for me is was a good investment in time and money. Daniel Craig indeed has his work cut out for him as Hollywood remakes theses films; please, Hollywood don't screw them up.

Spring has sprung

2011-03-13T11:49:00.000Z

It is still a bit cold here and there, with rain showers and cold-ish weather continuing to remind us that Winter-Man is not quite willing to relinquish his seasonal control, but the signs are there that Spring is just around the corner in London.

As much as the actual arrival of Spring, it is the anticipation of her impending visitation that stirs my excitement. (Notice how I assume that Winter is a man and Sring is a woman - maybe it is the re-birth of life aspect that causes me to think this).

Sure, the other signs of Spring are there: the ever lengthening days and longer hours of daylight, or the increasing frequency of warmer days, such as the one I experienced yesterday on my long run. Bright sunshine and 58 degrees greeted me as my foot trek began, and I quickly questioned my choice of running apparel as the susnshine beat down and the temperative rose. Still, it was a bea-u-ti-ful day!

For me though, nothing says spring in London that the arrival of the daffodils! In late February, those green shoots commence their sprouting, and I know that it is only a matter of time before those cheery little yellow buds raise their heads skyward...as if to be flocking home to the mothership that is the sun. Give or take fours weeks later, all of London is awash in a sea of yellow. The cherry blossoms trees begin to shower us with a sea of white and pink flurries, Spring's version of snowfall. Crocus blooms remind us that good things can still come in little purple and yellow packages. Still...can there be a cheerier flower than the daffodil? See what I mean....

FYI - this photo of the Budman and I is in St. James Park, one of several parks showcasing all things daffodil. In fact, the entire area around Buckhingham Palace, the Mall, Green Park, and St. James Park pays tribute to the glory of our yellow friend in a magnficient way. Who do we ahve to thank for this stunning display?

Besides the gardeners London's Royal Parks, apparently it is Liz and Phil (a.k.a Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip) that requested thousands of the daffodil bulbs prior to their marriage along the marriage processional route that the carriage would follow. To this day, Londoners enjoy this singular floral display each Spring courtesy of this event.

Carrying that royal theme one bit further, it has been speculated that Kate Middleton's marriage bouguet may incorporate the Welsh national flower (daffodil) into her bouquet or train. Time will tell.

Either way, the glories of this cheery flower tell us all that "Spring has indeed sprung!"

Royal Wedding Watch: thinking of holding a royal street party?

2011-03-09T06:18:00.002Z

Well, actually...no, I wasn't. Had I been, though, this would have sucked all the energy and enthusiasm for the idea right out of me....

First of all, what in the heck is a "royal street party"? Well, a long-standing British tradition apparently. When Prince William and Kate Middleton wed on April 29th, the UK will celebrate with a special one-off bank holiday. Code word for "national holiday".

As with many royal events in the past, UK citizens will choose to celebrate this wedding by planning a street party on the road in which they live, turning this event into a day of celebration for their neighborhood. Think of it as a "block party" for the royal wedding. Sounds basic enough...well, in UK fashion, nothing is ever simple.

In order for any UK citizen to hold such a royal street party, they must apply to their local council (a.k.a. city hall in US speak) for approval. As part of the submission, the party-thrower must let the council know:

* the type of party that is being planned
* the length of the party
* the location of the party

Why? So the council can make arrangements for any necessary road closures or other measures. And because it is a "special occasion", according to most councils, there is unlikely to be a charge to hold a street party, although the costs will be dependent on the application and the size of the party. Most "small" events will not incur a cost, but the Highways Department will decide once it reviews the application. Oh geez, Big Government at its most bureaucratic! Getting into the party planning act and looking for another way to generate a little revenue.

If the party-thrower is planning a party on a larger scale (whatever that is defined as), with live music and alcohol, he/she must apply for an alcohol or entertainment license. Way to be a joy kill, UK Councils!

Back to my original thought...nope, not planning a royal street party...one more reason that the trip to Provence is looking good!

Happy Women's Day

2011-03-08T22:19:00.001Z

Until I lived in the UK, I had never heard of this day of observance, even though Germany and Taiwan, both places I have lived, supposedly celebrate the day. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that I was limited linguistically in these countries and simply had no idea the day of celebration was occurring.

In many countries around the world, today is celebrated as "Happy Women's Day". What's the history of this day of observance, you ask?

International Women's Day (IWD), originally called International Working Women’s Day is marked on March 8th of every year and is a major day of global celebration of women. In different regions of the world, the focus of the celebrations range from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political and social achievements.

Originating as a Socialist political event, the holiday blended in the cultures of many countries, primarily Eastern Europe, Russia, and the former Soviet bloc countries. In many regions, the day lost its political flavour, and simply became an occasion for men to express their love for women in a way somewhat similar to a mixture of Mother's Day and St Valentine's Day. In other regions, however, the original political and human rights theme designated by the United Nations runs strong, and political and social awareness of the struggles of women worldwide are brought out and examined in a hopeful manner.

So, Happy Women's Day to all the amazing women I know...for their achievements, for their dedication to the world they are a part of, and for the difference they make in the lives of so many people.

it's spelled "quaver"

2011-03-07T15:33:00.002Z

Answer to preceding post: An eighth note (in the US and Canada) or a quaver (other English-speaking countries) is a musical note played for one eighth the duration of a whole note, hence the name.

Thanks, Scott!

You learn something new every day...well almost

2011-03-07T08:05:00.000Z

I am happy to report that in 2011 I have been able to rejoin the Chiswick Chorale, since participation in the choir during 2010 was downright impossible given the family events of last year. There is something that is good for the soul about going to the choir rehearsal every Tuesday night for two hours and doing something that is totally unrelated to work or personal responsibilities. It is quite reassuring to join 150 other like-minded souls for a chorale rehearsal where we sing some of history's most beautifuol music.

For our spring concert, we are performing Mozart's Requim, a piece I have never had the pleasure of performing. For that matter, anything by Mozart is always uplifting and inspirational.

I like to think of myself as a fairly astute amateur singer, but I must confess to being bumfuzzled when last week two musical terms were trotted out in rehearsal for the first time I could ever remember. Frankly, I had never heard these terms before. Maybe it is a UK choir thing, but as I looked around at my fellow singers, there were nods of acknowledgement as if to say, "OK, got it!". As for me, it was like speaking a foreign language.

Thank heavens for Google and Wikipedia, as I quickly looked up the terms during a break in rehearsal, or tried to anyway. No way was I going to admit to my fellow singers that I did not know these terms...

By now, your curiosity is getting the better of you, so here are the terms...and please no additional remarks if those reading this post actually knew the musical vocabulary:

* dotted crotchet
* quevo (sp???)

And the answers:

A dotted crotchet or dotted quarter note is a crotchet/quarter note that has been lengthened by half; that is, it has the length of three quavers/eighth notes. In x/4 time signatures, the dotted quarter note is worth 1½ beats and is normally followed by an eighth note. In 6/8 time, the dotted quarter note is thought of as one "big beat"; often perceived as one beat rather than the natural 3 beats.

As for the second term, I cannot find it, partly because I am not sure of the spelling, and partly because none of the online musical terminology dictionaries have anything remotely similar to the spelling...of any sort. It sounds like "cuevo", "cueva", "queva", although cueva is spanish for cave. So, I am out of luck on this word.

Can anyone solve the mystery?

Running successes - celebrate the small stuff

2011-03-06T19:32:00.001Z

I am about 10 weeks away from the Edinburgh Marathon and am happy report that my longest run to date (15.47 miles) was completed in fine form today. The gods were smiling on all counts, as the sun was shining, the wind was to a minimum, and the eating regimen seems to be paying off in terms of longevity in the runs, little leg fatigue, and good levels of energy all the way round. So far, I am exuding energy and feeling strong on all my runs. The 9 pounds I've shed aren't too shabby either.

So, as the big day approaches for Number 14 (the total number of marathons completed to date), I've turned my attention to some highly desirable autumn half marathons, that are both popular with runners and afford destination running: Windsor 1/2 in September, Royal Parks 1/2 in London and Cardiff, Wales 1/2 in October. Lucky me, I am confirmed in all three races, even pulling the highly coveted ballot place in Royal Parks this past Friday.

I am downright giddy.

one more thing for Oscar Watch

2011-02-28T01:24:00.000Z

I am rooting for my "neighbor" to win the Best Actor category this year...OK, so technically, he is not my next door neighbor but he lives in the same west London suburb/village that I live in.

So, I am rooting for the Chiswick boy...go Colin, go!

Early Oscar dress watch

2011-02-28T01:20:00.000Z

OK, only an hour or so into the pre Oscar watch, but clearly the nude/silver/being color scheme is the trend for this week.

Thank heavens for the gals who are wearing a little color this year...

Oscar watch

2011-02-28T01:16:00.000Z

Yes, I am wide awake in London at 1 am watching that insipid E! Live from the Red Carpet ...waiting for the main event to start in 30 minutes. Wasn't sure I was going to stay up and watch it live, and not quite sure I have it in me anyway to pull the late nighter on a school night. The Sky+ is taping just in case I crater on the couch.

That said, I am happy to report a return to my previous years "Oscar watching form", as the past two years have resulted in me seeing zero of the nominated films. Lots of reasons for the increase in viewing during the last year, much of it being the 8 trips to and from DFW, the 8 hour junket to Nairobi and the 6 hour flight to Bahrain. A great way to catch up on your Oscar viewing.

How many films from the main 8 categories have I actually seen? 11 out of 15...My choices for winners include:

BEST FILM: King's Speech (British royalty will win out over social networking.

BEST DIRECTOR: hmmm...rather do the voters split the best film and best director. That said, I could see it go to either Tom Hopper/King's Speech or David Fincher/Social Network. Edge to Hopper.

BEST ACTOR: Colin Firth...he's a shoe-in.

BEST ACTRESS: Natalie Portman...no question.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: one of my least favorite actors in the world, but give it to Christian Bale. Question is: what accent is he gonna spring for his acceptance speech?

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: always a "loose cannon", a.k.a. "dark horse" wins category, but this year, it seems clear...the Oscar goes to Melissa Leo.

Let the games begin.

And just for an early dress update: I do like Cate Blanchett's dress....different but gorgeous! And again, Helena Bonham Carter...sister, what do you think about when you get dressed for these events? Ugh!

14th time is a charm

2011-01-11T18:06:00.000Z

Yes, I have officially decided to do this marathon thing again; destination - Edinburgh, date - May 2011.
For the 14th time, I will have the pleasure of training for another marathon....

Trying to be a little less spontaneous with life and not always so goal oriented, those who know me well will notice that I refrain from posting a projected time goal. Don't think I have gone totally cold turkey and do not have one. Let's just say that I will see how the personal and professional work committments align this year before I throw down the marathon finish time gauntlet. There is a vague time noodling around in the back of my brain though.

Come next week, the 19 weeks of training commence...kinda like starting a new semester of school.
I am energized.

actually, it smells really nice

2011-01-10T23:25:00.000Z

Unlike the US, there is no need to haul your "bigger than Texas" live (and now dead) Christmas tree to the local tip (let me translate into American for you = "the dump") after the decorations are down and the new year is upon you. No, just haul your used tree to your local park or green belt and drop it anywhere you like; the city garbage men will then pick it up for recycling. Seems pretty easy, although I saw UK dads for days dragging their old Christmas trees down the street. Kinda a hassle but a green one.

While we are on the subject of Christmas trees, in the UK, people traditionally do not put up the Christmas Tree and begin to decorate their homes until about 12 days before Christmas. If you follow this tradition, then the reverse happens by the 6th January, which is 12 days after Christmas. None of this bad luck leaving the tree up after New Year's Day.

As I was heading to the tube on Friday night, there was a large pile of trees that had been dumped...I smelled them before I saw them. Comforting in an odd way.

Puh-lease

2011-01-08T23:43:00.000Z

Each month, I always look forward to receiving my latest copy of Vanity Fair Magazine. A long hot soak in a nice bubblebath, a cup of Earl Grey tea and my magazine in hand, and I am ready to go. Which is precisely what happened two nights ago.

As I relaxed in the lavender scented bath, tea mug sitting within easy reach, I excitely removed the latest edition of VF from its protective mailing cover to find....EGADS!

This month's cover was devoted to none other that the teen heart-throb, Justin Bieber. Please note the operative word there..."teen" heart-throb. With the demographics of the magazine certainly NOT being girls in the 8-16 age range, why in the world was he the featured article and cover?

Yea, after a cursory flip through the other articles, the mag went in the recycle pile...I'll pass on the Bieb-meister, thanks all the same.

XOXOXO

2011-01-08T02:04:00.000Z

Happy anniversary, Budman!