After a good night's sleep in Manassas, VA at Brother Johney's, I headed out to Philadelphia, PA and some real brotherly luv or so I would find out! I headed out through Maryland and landed briefly in Baltimore where I took in the Harbor on a dreary day from storms that shock DC the past evening! Despite the weather, I drove past the Raven's and Orioles's stadiums and took in Baltimore, MD! If I had, had more time, I would have had some seafood but alas, that time will have to wait for now! The harbor was great, lots of photo taking opportunities and even saw an old ship in the bay and photographed that as well! Come On... You know me by now... RIGHT!?
From Baltimore, I headed North East through Delaware where I stopped (BRIEFLY" at a truck stop to fulfill my INNER (WAYNE'S WORLD) Fantasy and film myself talking about being in Delaware!!! Anyone know what I'm talking about!? Not a whole lot there, or at least where I went so I continued on through to Pennsylvania where I stopped off in Philadelphia where I was lucky enough to meet up with Drexel University in Philly! David Johney had some contacts and they contacted me shortly before I ALMOST headed to Jersey where I thought of seeing Atlantic City and my Dad's house where he grew up many years ago in Leonardo, NJ before heading up to my Aunt's!!!
After making a spur of the moment decision, I headed into down town to meet up with the Brothers of Drexel University who were having some professional events and chapter! I was greeted by RAVI who saved the day and paid for University parking at Drexel so I could feel secure and crash for the evening! After several hours of meetings and chapter, I got the opportunity to meet their current pledge class and was thoroughly entertained and was able to pass on some great advice to them in their journey! The brothers of Drexel were amazing...Professional, Friendly, and open to STRANGERS!!! I then went out to SUSHI at POD with two very AWESOME brothers and then met up with others at a bar in down town where we toasted the town and bonded in the coolest of ways! I Think/HOPE I showed them some serious Professional and Social LUV and they were kind enough to let me crash for the evening! Check out the pics! Great Times! So special that I even bought a DREXEL U Shirt and sported it as an UN-Official brother of their chapter! I am SOOOOOO proud of our brotherhood and it was backed up BIG TIME with this experience! Their President, Maryann and I bonded over the course of the evening and she was kind enough to let me crash on her couch! Thank You So Much For That!!!
The next day I rose with a stir and headed out on a journey to see family in New Jersey! On my way out, I had a PHILLY CHEESE STEAK in PHILLY at 9:00AM for breakfast! Doesn't sound good, but it was AMAZING!!! Definitely capped off my time with Amazing Brothers in Drexel! Thank you again for all your hospitality, professionalism and LUV!!! See Yall In JERSEY!!!
Stay tuned for more...
PS...
1. Drexel University was recently voted as one of the "UGLIEST" Universities in America! I did NOT see this and loved my time and the CAMPUS in Philly!
2. If you GPS the Liberty Bell in Philly, it just MIGHT take you to a STRIP MALL downtown where there is NO Liberty Bell!!!???
3. Philly is a place where everyone should go to experience BROTHERLY LUV, whether its AKPSI or NOT! Good Times!!!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Some Of You May Have Thought I Died...Nope Just Been Too Busy Living Life...The Next Chapter Is NOW...
Slightly behind the times but life goes on and so did I!!!
After leaving Charlotte, NC, I headed out on the road Northward bound up the coast! North Carolina was beautiful and I would have liked to spend some time on the Coast if given the opportunity!? Oh well, I have a feeling I'll be back there in good time! Definitely one of the best places I've been along the road and we'll see what the future holds!?
I headed out up the Coast and drove through to Virginia! Now I must say that in Virginia, radar detectors are illegal so don't even try! I did a little concealing and continued on! Nothing beats a good drive like some CAR-Yoke!!! Some day if bandwidth and wi-fi allows, I might even share some of my VIDEO-TAPED sessions with all of you!? I "Rocked" my way up to Fredricksburg, VAwhere I rested for the evening! The locals told me that it was a safe area and that there were a lot of "older" people there! Not sure, but I didn't see many of those "older" people and where I stayed (Super 8) seemed to have some locals that I would have rather "avoided" at all costs! Despite this, it was a good stop off and I chatted a bunch with brothers I'd stayed with prior on my journey! When all was said and done, I headed to Washington D.C. to spend some time with some more great brothers and family!
That morning I headed into Down Town, DC and met up with Brother Alexander Sultan, who treated me to a great lunch filled with Bento Box Sushi and even welcomed me to DC with some FBI gifts that really made my day! Thank You Alexander! After a VERY filling lunch, I found myself, by myself to explore our great capital until dinner time with Janel, an amazing family member of mine! I hiked what seemed like the entire capital with my backpack of expensive and ir-replaceable laptops and GPS devices, etc! By the end of the day, I was about to die and so were my "Cougar" calves!!! In fact the next day, my back almost gave out on me, the length we go through some times to make sure we're kosher!!!
Now I must back track a moment! Thank you again Alexander for your brotherly luv and patience as it took me forever to get down town! There were major accidents on the highway and I got lost about a thousand times before I found you! Parking was a "BITCH" too, and I had to undergo a "FULL-ON" security search with bomb detectors and all just to park in the Reagan building down town!!! Then I couldn't find parking in the lot and the VALET attendant felt sorry for me so he let me park for free! I'm NOT done yet, after finding a spot and finding my way to the surface of the earth/first floor of the Reagan building... I couldn't even get out of the building as the Building had ridiculous amounts of directions to an exit that DIDN'T lead me to any exit! After about 10 minutes of trying to get out, I finally found my way! Not the best way to start my experience in DC!!! If it wasn't for the people I spent time with there, I would have written this town off "In A New York Minute!!!"
Now back to DC! The architecture was amazing! I loved my "self-time" in DC and definitely saw just about everything! In fact, I had been there with my own family a few years ago so I really just wanted to network and spend time with with local peeps! Come dinner time, I headed on a 25 minute walk up DC past the white house which was awesome especially since they were just completing the East Egg Roll festivities and eventually found my way to family, Janel on the outskirts of Georgetown! I hadn't seen her in years and really took this opportunity to soak in all that I could! We ate at an amazing restaurant in Georgetown that left me truly "Fat And Happy" and one of the best Steaks I've had since Texas! After walking back I headed to Manassas, VA to crash with Brother Of The Year, David Johney! I got in a bit late, but was lucky enough to spend about an hour or so in quality time with him! I was very impressed and sad that we couldn't share more stories and experiences with AKPSI! That said, I was oh so thankful to him for taking a chance on a brother and spreading more professional luv! The next day I was off to my Aunt Debra's in North, New Jersey!
Overall my time in DC was good! I hate big cities so this experience was definitely a challenging one but it was saved by those I came across in my travels! Alexander, David, Janel... You are all amazing people and I LUV YOU for your kindness, patience, professionalism and luv!!! I can't thank you all enough! Thanks for making a "SUBURB" boy into a "City Boy" for a day! More Good Times To Come! Stay Tuned!
MACK OUT!!!
Some Additional Notes...
1. There is a street named "Breeden" Ave in Virginia!? Kind of crazy but I stayed away! Sounds like some streets in this great country need some birth control every now and again! Watch out for the water!
2. Virginia State Law prohibits Smoking in Customer Service Lines! Dually NOTED but found it FUNNY that they had to ADVERTISE/SPELL IT OUT on a sign in restaurants!!!
3. Don't remember the stations but some of the best RADIO STATIONS I've listened to along my journey were in VIRGINIA!!! Great Listening! The other favorite spots have been in North Carolina, Albuquerque, NM, and Dallas, TX!!! Good radio that doesn't repeat songs every half hour is hard to find! Consider these parts of the country lucky and I am OH SO THANKFUL!!!
4. In Virginia, I was instructed to "OPEN JOINTS ON THE BRIDGE" not sure how to take this, I decided to wait to open my joint till I was safe and sound after the bridge! PS...This is a joke, I don't smoke joints nor do I support them!!! I just found it SLIGHTLY hilarious that they were UN-knowingly discussing this topic!!!
After leaving Charlotte, NC, I headed out on the road Northward bound up the coast! North Carolina was beautiful and I would have liked to spend some time on the Coast if given the opportunity!? Oh well, I have a feeling I'll be back there in good time! Definitely one of the best places I've been along the road and we'll see what the future holds!?
I headed out up the Coast and drove through to Virginia! Now I must say that in Virginia, radar detectors are illegal so don't even try! I did a little concealing and continued on! Nothing beats a good drive like some CAR-Yoke!!! Some day if bandwidth and wi-fi allows, I might even share some of my VIDEO-TAPED sessions with all of you!? I "Rocked" my way up to Fredricksburg, VAwhere I rested for the evening! The locals told me that it was a safe area and that there were a lot of "older" people there! Not sure, but I didn't see many of those "older" people and where I stayed (Super 8) seemed to have some locals that I would have rather "avoided" at all costs! Despite this, it was a good stop off and I chatted a bunch with brothers I'd stayed with prior on my journey! When all was said and done, I headed to Washington D.C. to spend some time with some more great brothers and family!
That morning I headed into Down Town, DC and met up with Brother Alexander Sultan, who treated me to a great lunch filled with Bento Box Sushi and even welcomed me to DC with some FBI gifts that really made my day! Thank You Alexander! After a VERY filling lunch, I found myself, by myself to explore our great capital until dinner time with Janel, an amazing family member of mine! I hiked what seemed like the entire capital with my backpack of expensive and ir-replaceable laptops and GPS devices, etc! By the end of the day, I was about to die and so were my "Cougar" calves!!! In fact the next day, my back almost gave out on me, the length we go through some times to make sure we're kosher!!!
Now I must back track a moment! Thank you again Alexander for your brotherly luv and patience as it took me forever to get down town! There were major accidents on the highway and I got lost about a thousand times before I found you! Parking was a "BITCH" too, and I had to undergo a "FULL-ON" security search with bomb detectors and all just to park in the Reagan building down town!!! Then I couldn't find parking in the lot and the VALET attendant felt sorry for me so he let me park for free! I'm NOT done yet, after finding a spot and finding my way to the surface of the earth/first floor of the Reagan building... I couldn't even get out of the building as the Building had ridiculous amounts of directions to an exit that DIDN'T lead me to any exit! After about 10 minutes of trying to get out, I finally found my way! Not the best way to start my experience in DC!!! If it wasn't for the people I spent time with there, I would have written this town off "In A New York Minute!!!"
Now back to DC! The architecture was amazing! I loved my "self-time" in DC and definitely saw just about everything! In fact, I had been there with my own family a few years ago so I really just wanted to network and spend time with with local peeps! Come dinner time, I headed on a 25 minute walk up DC past the white house which was awesome especially since they were just completing the East Egg Roll festivities and eventually found my way to family, Janel on the outskirts of Georgetown! I hadn't seen her in years and really took this opportunity to soak in all that I could! We ate at an amazing restaurant in Georgetown that left me truly "Fat And Happy" and one of the best Steaks I've had since Texas! After walking back I headed to Manassas, VA to crash with Brother Of The Year, David Johney! I got in a bit late, but was lucky enough to spend about an hour or so in quality time with him! I was very impressed and sad that we couldn't share more stories and experiences with AKPSI! That said, I was oh so thankful to him for taking a chance on a brother and spreading more professional luv! The next day I was off to my Aunt Debra's in North, New Jersey!
Overall my time in DC was good! I hate big cities so this experience was definitely a challenging one but it was saved by those I came across in my travels! Alexander, David, Janel... You are all amazing people and I LUV YOU for your kindness, patience, professionalism and luv!!! I can't thank you all enough! Thanks for making a "SUBURB" boy into a "City Boy" for a day! More Good Times To Come! Stay Tuned!
MACK OUT!!!
Some Additional Notes...
1. There is a street named "Breeden" Ave in Virginia!? Kind of crazy but I stayed away! Sounds like some streets in this great country need some birth control every now and again! Watch out for the water!
2. Virginia State Law prohibits Smoking in Customer Service Lines! Dually NOTED but found it FUNNY that they had to ADVERTISE/SPELL IT OUT on a sign in restaurants!!!
3. Don't remember the stations but some of the best RADIO STATIONS I've listened to along my journey were in VIRGINIA!!! Great Listening! The other favorite spots have been in North Carolina, Albuquerque, NM, and Dallas, TX!!! Good radio that doesn't repeat songs every half hour is hard to find! Consider these parts of the country lucky and I am OH SO THANKFUL!!!
4. In Virginia, I was instructed to "OPEN JOINTS ON THE BRIDGE" not sure how to take this, I decided to wait to open my joint till I was safe and sound after the bridge! PS...This is a joke, I don't smoke joints nor do I support them!!! I just found it SLIGHTLY hilarious that they were UN-knowingly discussing this topic!!!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
On To Charlotte, NC To Hang With Lara And Stimulate Some Economy!!!
Well after some fun times in Atlanta, I headed out through Georgia mid-day so I could avoid the storms that were coming, It rained and had a little thunder and lightning that morning that just rolled through but there was another storm front that was to hit later that afternoon with the possibility of tornadoes and other nasty things!
I rolled through Northern Georgia and South Carolina like a TORNADO myself and as I entered North Carolina, it began to rain heavily, again reminding me of my roots in Seattle! As I continued on things got worse and I saw at least a dozen accidents caused by slick roadways and the first hint of rain! I thought to myself... now I know that when it snows often times things grind to a halt and that nobody seems to know how to drive in it but RAIN come on now!? It was really strange but again there were accidents everywhere but most were simply cars that had slid of the road into the embankments! Apparently more people need to travel out to the NW corner and learn to drive there first!?
Anyways, after heading into Charlotte, I met up with Lara and Subakom who live on the outskirts of the city in a beautiful neighborhood and nice house! As soon as I got there they welcomed me with open arms and some much needed snacks! I hadn't seen Lara in almost 10 years since we first Founded the Beta Lambda chapter of AKPSI and this visit was LONG overdue! I was in for quite the treat as well as they had invited several friends over for a fun evening in with games/great food and conversations! I had one of my first sessions with real home-cooked Indian food that both expanded my palate and tickled my taste buds! Now, I love spicy food but often times my stomach tends to be a little on the sensitive side but this meal was no problem and I loved every minute of it! Once again we ate in Europe at like 9:00pm but had plenty of drinks including Gin-Ling and Sangria beforehand, both home-made and oh so thirst-quenching!
After the other guests arrived we sat down for that same food and chatted about life and travels and every other topic you can imagine! All of this while thunder, lightning, rain, and hail lit up the sky, creating an amazing background of sounds and sensations while the night wore on! After finishing our dinner we then dined on Lara's home-cooked brownies that also were a distinct highlight, drank some more and Wii'ed it up with the Nintendo before retiring for the evening!
The next day we set out and toured down town Charlotte, which was both beautiful and clean and little did I know but Charlotte is actually a rather small city as far as the down town and skyscrapers are concerned! This was a nice change from other cities and I really found myself enjoying the area and less claustrophobic, etc then in other places I've visited! We hit up local museums where we learned about the history of North Carolina from its days of Cotton through the Banking and Financial Mecca that it has become today! We also checked out where we would be going later that evening to dine, drink and dance the night away in what I would term the epicenter of "Fun Times" in Charlotte! After heading back out of the city, we hit up "Cracker Barrel" which is a great restaurant and store that I had passed on freeways now for many states but hadn't had the chance to really enjoy yet! We ate like Kings and then finished the early afternoon with a tour of the local Nascar Raceway which is huge here as many of the drivers including Dale Earnhardt Jr., etc., actually live in Charlotte! After this we headed home and took a Siesta after the fine Cracker Barrel Fiesta, which was much needed due to our massive food coma's!
For most of the rest of the afternoon we slept and then got caught up on Facebook and also did a mini slide show of my findings and photos from the rest of the trip! After relaxing for a few hours we headed back out to eat at a great Pizza joint down town and then it was off to MEZ which was a great and very LARGE upscale club in downtown Charlotte! When we got there we settled into some lucky sofa's outside on the patio overlooking the down town popular spot and also with great views of the skyline there as well! We settled up next to a fire on the deck/patio there and hunkered down treating each other to shots and mixed drinks, all the while making new friends and meeting up with several of my friend's, friends and coworkers as well! My social highlight of the evening was meeting a beautiful young professional/could have been MODEL named SARAH from Yugoslavia! We talked about Charlotte and her experiences there as well as the old country! (I'm half Latvian) After some more great conversations and all we bid adieu to each other and continued the evening with my other friends until we nearly closed down the joint in the wee early hours of the morning! Another great night with some new BFF's and times that I will never forget! I truly do love you guys and hope we can do this again, but lets not wait another 8-10 years to do so!!! ;)
The next morning we slept in quite a bit and relaxed before I headed back out on the road to head up to Virginia and Washington DC to visit with some brothers for the first time and family I hadn't seen in years! I had an amazing experience in Charlotte and will definitely consider it as a potential place to settle down! Beautiful people, Did I mention that the woman to man ratio is like 6 to 1!!! I like those ODDS!!! ;) The scenery is great, the weather is great, and believe it or not, it is still growing at a good rate despite the economy and times we live in! See you again Charlotte and Lara and Subakom! Thanks for everything and as always...Much Professional LUV!!!
MACKOUT!!!
I rolled through Northern Georgia and South Carolina like a TORNADO myself and as I entered North Carolina, it began to rain heavily, again reminding me of my roots in Seattle! As I continued on things got worse and I saw at least a dozen accidents caused by slick roadways and the first hint of rain! I thought to myself... now I know that when it snows often times things grind to a halt and that nobody seems to know how to drive in it but RAIN come on now!? It was really strange but again there were accidents everywhere but most were simply cars that had slid of the road into the embankments! Apparently more people need to travel out to the NW corner and learn to drive there first!?
Anyways, after heading into Charlotte, I met up with Lara and Subakom who live on the outskirts of the city in a beautiful neighborhood and nice house! As soon as I got there they welcomed me with open arms and some much needed snacks! I hadn't seen Lara in almost 10 years since we first Founded the Beta Lambda chapter of AKPSI and this visit was LONG overdue! I was in for quite the treat as well as they had invited several friends over for a fun evening in with games/great food and conversations! I had one of my first sessions with real home-cooked Indian food that both expanded my palate and tickled my taste buds! Now, I love spicy food but often times my stomach tends to be a little on the sensitive side but this meal was no problem and I loved every minute of it! Once again we ate in Europe at like 9:00pm but had plenty of drinks including Gin-Ling and Sangria beforehand, both home-made and oh so thirst-quenching!
After the other guests arrived we sat down for that same food and chatted about life and travels and every other topic you can imagine! All of this while thunder, lightning, rain, and hail lit up the sky, creating an amazing background of sounds and sensations while the night wore on! After finishing our dinner we then dined on Lara's home-cooked brownies that also were a distinct highlight, drank some more and Wii'ed it up with the Nintendo before retiring for the evening!
The next day we set out and toured down town Charlotte, which was both beautiful and clean and little did I know but Charlotte is actually a rather small city as far as the down town and skyscrapers are concerned! This was a nice change from other cities and I really found myself enjoying the area and less claustrophobic, etc then in other places I've visited! We hit up local museums where we learned about the history of North Carolina from its days of Cotton through the Banking and Financial Mecca that it has become today! We also checked out where we would be going later that evening to dine, drink and dance the night away in what I would term the epicenter of "Fun Times" in Charlotte! After heading back out of the city, we hit up "Cracker Barrel" which is a great restaurant and store that I had passed on freeways now for many states but hadn't had the chance to really enjoy yet! We ate like Kings and then finished the early afternoon with a tour of the local Nascar Raceway which is huge here as many of the drivers including Dale Earnhardt Jr., etc., actually live in Charlotte! After this we headed home and took a Siesta after the fine Cracker Barrel Fiesta, which was much needed due to our massive food coma's!
For most of the rest of the afternoon we slept and then got caught up on Facebook and also did a mini slide show of my findings and photos from the rest of the trip! After relaxing for a few hours we headed back out to eat at a great Pizza joint down town and then it was off to MEZ which was a great and very LARGE upscale club in downtown Charlotte! When we got there we settled into some lucky sofa's outside on the patio overlooking the down town popular spot and also with great views of the skyline there as well! We settled up next to a fire on the deck/patio there and hunkered down treating each other to shots and mixed drinks, all the while making new friends and meeting up with several of my friend's, friends and coworkers as well! My social highlight of the evening was meeting a beautiful young professional/could have been MODEL named SARAH from Yugoslavia! We talked about Charlotte and her experiences there as well as the old country! (I'm half Latvian) After some more great conversations and all we bid adieu to each other and continued the evening with my other friends until we nearly closed down the joint in the wee early hours of the morning! Another great night with some new BFF's and times that I will never forget! I truly do love you guys and hope we can do this again, but lets not wait another 8-10 years to do so!!! ;)
The next morning we slept in quite a bit and relaxed before I headed back out on the road to head up to Virginia and Washington DC to visit with some brothers for the first time and family I hadn't seen in years! I had an amazing experience in Charlotte and will definitely consider it as a potential place to settle down! Beautiful people, Did I mention that the woman to man ratio is like 6 to 1!!! I like those ODDS!!! ;) The scenery is great, the weather is great, and believe it or not, it is still growing at a good rate despite the economy and times we live in! See you again Charlotte and Lara and Subakom! Thanks for everything and as always...Much Professional LUV!!!
MACKOUT!!!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Getting All Olympic In Atlanta, GA!!!
Welcome Back To The Matt Show!!!
This episode takes us to the urban metropolis of Atlanta, Georgia! I started out in New Orleans, Louisiana and skirted my way through Mississippi and Alabama with "YARISsa" in full stride! She was looking all Purdy and was ready to escort me to through the South and leave a mark on the locals! Before I knew it I was knocking on the door of Brother Jessica on the outskirts of the city of Atlanta! We headed off, parked and rode MARTA (Atlanta Transit System) into the city! It was another great example of public transportation and I hope it stays that way! Its going through a budget crunch and there is a chance it could get scaled back and effect thousands of patrons in Atlanta! Let's keep MARTA alive people! She was good to me! ; )
We first hit up Centennial Olympic Park where we toured and photographed our way through town until we got to the Phillips Arena where the Hawks play basketball and the Thrasher's rock the ice! Right next door to the sports arena is the CNN Plaza! We took a break and enjoyed a very TASTY and FROSTY beverage and admired the sights inside the giant complex! There were floors upon floors of offices and studios along with a hotel for guests and a giant food court for employees and guests! Next we hit a local joint called "TACOMAC" I was beside myself as not only did this place have part of my nickname (MACK) in its title but it also had TACO's or so I thought!? Jessica pointed out that this was no MEXICAN or TEX-MEX or whatever you want to call it and I was perplexed? I mean, how could anyone in their right mind name a restaurant TACOMAC and not serve primarily that type of food? But alas, she was right! Now I did have an amazing burger with all the fixin's and sampled one of over 160 beers they had on tap! Very similar to what we have in Washington state called the "Tap House!" You might be wondering what kind of beer I sampled but unfortunately it was one that I cannot professionally repeat on the world wide web! So you can feel free to ask me at a later time! ;) Afterward we toasted Atlanta, we headed back to the "Burbs" to hang out, catch up and get some rest for the next day!
Which leads me to...what else besides the...NEXT DAY!!! We headed out early for dinner and drove around town some more checking out other subdivisions of Atlanta! It was great seeing other areas outside of the main downtown! Before we headed out we ran into one of Jessica's neighbors who gave us lots of great ideas of things to do and places to see/eat at!!! We ended up at Front Page News where we sampled some good eats and local favorite MILLER LITE! ;)
Afterward we headed out to a local sports pub where we commenced an intense evening of Darts, Billiards, A Little Impromptu Dancing and Good Conversation with Jessica and her friends! The night ended with some compliments from one DJ ( Me, though pretty Amateur) to another and then we headed back to Jessica's on a bit of a wild ride that had not expected but everything ended up well and I survived! At the end of the stay, I had a truly amazing time with Brother Jessica in Hot-Lanta and am Oh-So-Thankful for everything we did! Before you know it, I was off and headed to Charlotte, North Carolina and brother Lara who is a fellow FOUNDER of Beta Lambda at Washington State University in Pullman, WA!!! I haven't seen her in 8-10 years and was more STOKED then you can imagine to finally catch up and fill in the blanks!!! Before I leave though I wanted to finish with some more insights during my most recent days in Atlanta and around Georgia!!!
1. In Alabama and Mississippi there are a ton of Prison Inmate Clean Up Crews that I passed on the way to Atlanta! Took me by surprise but at least we're keeping our streets clean and giving them a chance to catch some sun!
2. I saw a ton of pamphlets about various Wrestling matches taking place in Alabama and elsewhere during my drive to Atlanta! Must be a big thing down here! Some of the wrestler's names were outrageous, can't remember any off hand but I definitely got a sore stomach from laughing so hard! I guess Hulk Hogan had to start somewhere right!? Backyard Wrestling anyone!? Can You SMELL What The MACK Is Cookin'!? ;)
3. There is a place called MONSTER MOUNTAIN in Alabama!? I was definitely curious to see if in fact there were actual Monster's there or if it was just legend!? Oh well, maybe next time I'll get a chance to find out!
4. Various companies now market "BLUNT PAPERS" across the Nation as an alternative to factory-rolled cigarettes, but every place I seemed to stop for gas had massive campaigns for these BLUNT papers! I was taken back a bit!? I wonder what they use them for!? Probably something professional and legal I HOPE!!! ;) Goodness!!!
5. While In Atlanta, I discovered from Brother Jessica that unlike Seattle which has a Starbucks, Teriyaki joint and Thai food restaurant on every corner...Atlanta has a Bar, Tanning Salon, Chinese joint, Wing restaurant and Nail salon!? Similar but different! Every city surprises me!
This episode takes us to the urban metropolis of Atlanta, Georgia! I started out in New Orleans, Louisiana and skirted my way through Mississippi and Alabama with "YARISsa" in full stride! She was looking all Purdy and was ready to escort me to through the South and leave a mark on the locals! Before I knew it I was knocking on the door of Brother Jessica on the outskirts of the city of Atlanta! We headed off, parked and rode MARTA (Atlanta Transit System) into the city! It was another great example of public transportation and I hope it stays that way! Its going through a budget crunch and there is a chance it could get scaled back and effect thousands of patrons in Atlanta! Let's keep MARTA alive people! She was good to me! ; )
We first hit up Centennial Olympic Park where we toured and photographed our way through town until we got to the Phillips Arena where the Hawks play basketball and the Thrasher's rock the ice! Right next door to the sports arena is the CNN Plaza! We took a break and enjoyed a very TASTY and FROSTY beverage and admired the sights inside the giant complex! There were floors upon floors of offices and studios along with a hotel for guests and a giant food court for employees and guests! Next we hit a local joint called "TACOMAC" I was beside myself as not only did this place have part of my nickname (MACK) in its title but it also had TACO's or so I thought!? Jessica pointed out that this was no MEXICAN or TEX-MEX or whatever you want to call it and I was perplexed? I mean, how could anyone in their right mind name a restaurant TACOMAC and not serve primarily that type of food? But alas, she was right! Now I did have an amazing burger with all the fixin's and sampled one of over 160 beers they had on tap! Very similar to what we have in Washington state called the "Tap House!" You might be wondering what kind of beer I sampled but unfortunately it was one that I cannot professionally repeat on the world wide web! So you can feel free to ask me at a later time! ;) Afterward we toasted Atlanta, we headed back to the "Burbs" to hang out, catch up and get some rest for the next day!
Which leads me to...what else besides the...NEXT DAY!!! We headed out early for dinner and drove around town some more checking out other subdivisions of Atlanta! It was great seeing other areas outside of the main downtown! Before we headed out we ran into one of Jessica's neighbors who gave us lots of great ideas of things to do and places to see/eat at!!! We ended up at Front Page News where we sampled some good eats and local favorite MILLER LITE! ;)
Afterward we headed out to a local sports pub where we commenced an intense evening of Darts, Billiards, A Little Impromptu Dancing and Good Conversation with Jessica and her friends! The night ended with some compliments from one DJ ( Me, though pretty Amateur) to another and then we headed back to Jessica's on a bit of a wild ride that had not expected but everything ended up well and I survived! At the end of the stay, I had a truly amazing time with Brother Jessica in Hot-Lanta and am Oh-So-Thankful for everything we did! Before you know it, I was off and headed to Charlotte, North Carolina and brother Lara who is a fellow FOUNDER of Beta Lambda at Washington State University in Pullman, WA!!! I haven't seen her in 8-10 years and was more STOKED then you can imagine to finally catch up and fill in the blanks!!! Before I leave though I wanted to finish with some more insights during my most recent days in Atlanta and around Georgia!!!
1. In Alabama and Mississippi there are a ton of Prison Inmate Clean Up Crews that I passed on the way to Atlanta! Took me by surprise but at least we're keeping our streets clean and giving them a chance to catch some sun!
2. I saw a ton of pamphlets about various Wrestling matches taking place in Alabama and elsewhere during my drive to Atlanta! Must be a big thing down here! Some of the wrestler's names were outrageous, can't remember any off hand but I definitely got a sore stomach from laughing so hard! I guess Hulk Hogan had to start somewhere right!? Backyard Wrestling anyone!? Can You SMELL What The MACK Is Cookin'!? ;)
3. There is a place called MONSTER MOUNTAIN in Alabama!? I was definitely curious to see if in fact there were actual Monster's there or if it was just legend!? Oh well, maybe next time I'll get a chance to find out!
4. Various companies now market "BLUNT PAPERS" across the Nation as an alternative to factory-rolled cigarettes, but every place I seemed to stop for gas had massive campaigns for these BLUNT papers! I was taken back a bit!? I wonder what they use them for!? Probably something professional and legal I HOPE!!! ;) Goodness!!!
5. While In Atlanta, I discovered from Brother Jessica that unlike Seattle which has a Starbucks, Teriyaki joint and Thai food restaurant on every corner...Atlanta has a Bar, Tanning Salon, Chinese joint, Wing restaurant and Nail salon!? Similar but different! Every city surprises me!
Thursday, April 9, 2009
So I Kept Dreaming About These Beads... Just Kidding But New Orleans Was On My Mind...
After heading off from Ft. Worth, I headed straight for Louisiana and Swamp Country! The Drive was beautiful again and I was amazed how much literal swamp land encompassed parts of the state that I drove through! At one point I was on a bridge that went on for miles and miles above all of these trees that were submerged in swamp water and living very happily and without drowning which I found amazing! I even managed to come into town around dusk when another great sunset despite being on the East coast per say! You could see for miles out into the water and it was a great sight to be seen especially since I ran into Baton Rouge traffic and was at a halt!
On my way however I was able to stop in Shreveport, Louisiana where I was told it was like the "ARMPIT" 0f Las Vegas very jokingly by friends of mine! I didn't care though and needed a place to use the restroom and grab lunch so I pulled over and hit up the Eldorado Casino and Resort in town! I decided to hit some Penny Slots for a few minutes and within 5 minutes time, I took $5 and turned it into enough money to buy lunch, buy souvenirs, and some gas and head back out on the road! Now I've always had pretty good luck over my life time with Penny Slots! Most people make fun of me but when you're approximately $1500-2000 up over the course of a life time on Penny Slots, I'm usually the one laughing all the way to the Cashier's Cage!!! : )
After working my way through the madness I met up with Brother Sherah in Metairie, LA just outside of New Orleans from some killer Chinese food before moving on to one of my favorite spots of all time, Cafe Du Monde, where they make BEIGNETS!!! For those of you who don't know, Beignets are basically fluffy down fried in (very healthy, not) grease and then DOUSED or should I say DUMPED with Powdered Sugar!!! Those in combination with your favorite beverage of milk, coffee or hot cocoa and you are one Happy Camper!
The next day I headed out with Sherah to explore the local surroundings! We went through some breath-taking areas with lots of life, activity and spirit and then we also hit the opposite of the spectrum and saw all of the heartache, loss and destruction of some of the Hurricane Katrina areas! I was even lucky enough to get a first hand tour of the LOWER NINTH WARD where they were hit the hardest and was also one of the least wealthy areas of New Orleans! It is simply indescribable what I saw in my time there! I tried to capture it with some photos but they don't come close! Now, I must explain that I am rather Spiritual, more so then Religious though I believe in most of the same things anyways, and I have always had a certain ability to sense energy and feeling and other strange things... In New Orleans there was such a dichotomy of emotions and energy and life! I felt this immense energy on one hand that seemed to bring great life to the city, a very proud and passionate vibe, and yet on the other I sensed great despair and a lack of life almost if you will!? It was very peculiar but powerful and very moving for me as well! After some exploration in the Ninth ward, we went to visit the Chalmette Battle Fields where there were Plantations, Monuments, Cannons, and lots to explore, however it was getting dark at the time so it was not only was it a bit spooky but I was a little on edge as well! We walked for a ways despite this and came to the Mississippi River and Levy there that didn't happen to be the one that broke but it was sure still another great sight and especially at night! I had no idea how large it was and barges were floating down it as we watched from the shore! After some reflecting and good conversation we headed back to grab a EUROPEAN dinner (It was about 8:30-9:00pm) at the Harrah's Casino and Resort next to the River walk in downtown New Orleans!
Again for those who know me! I am a "SUCKA" for all you can eat buffets and though I am fairly average in stature, I can put down a "COW'S" worth of meat and other delicacies in these types of scenarios!!! I did not disappoint and before you know it Sherah and I were dining on some of the best buffet I've had in years! We ate too many crabs and shrimp to count and followed it up with some great dessert! Craw fish Jambalaya, and various other friend local delicacies also followed suit!!! After that we grabbed a drink at this fun bar in the middle of the casino where they had an ice bar! I hadn't seen this before for some reason, perhaps I wasn't paying attention but this was like a freezer ledge at the most inner part of the marble bar where you could put your drink or Bud Light and it would keep it nicely chilled while we watched the NCAA final! Oh yeah, PS I picked North Carolina to win it all and they did! In the end I did not want them to win as I had other favorites but I still had a feeling that despite my best interests, they would! Didn't win any money in pools, but still a great experience watching March Madness, my favorite time of year also because of my Pisces background, across the country!!!
After some more gambling where we came out even, we decided to head home for the night and rest up for another killer day to come!
My last night in New Orleans we went down to Loyola University and Tulane University and toured around campus for a little while! Loyola reminded me of Washington State in that most of their buildings were red brick which I absolutely love! There was one building however that looked strikingly different than all the rest! Sherah told me that long ago Loyola didn't have the funds to pay for brand new/from scratch planning so they came across this blueprint that was originally for a ship that never actually was built! They apparently used this as a basic blueprint for the building to be built and today it stands with all of its windows in the shape of oblong circles that instantly made me feel as if I was on a cruise ship! Pretty crazy stuff but true!
After reliving my collegiate years we hopped on the New Orleans Trolley which took us further into Uptown, New Orleans where we ate at another great Mexican restaurant whose name escapes me at this moment! They have the best SANGRIA Margaritas in town and after one large one we were both a bit GITTY and Ready to Rock!!! We took the Trolley again back to Sherah's car and hit up downtown along Canal Street and many others where we actually got to sit in on a Live Jazz Session and enjoy some local micro brew that also impressed my taste buds! After another full evening of fun, we headed back to Metairie, LA and I spent the rest of the night Facebooking and prepping to head to Atlanta, Georgia and Brother Jessica! Can't wait to share more but before I go here's a few more fun facts for you guys!
1. New Orleans has little hole in the wall SNOW BALL establishments where they served shaved ice with just about any flavor of topping you can imagine! They even had Margarita, Wine, Sangria, and many other Alcoholic flavorings but minus the alcohol! This was about the point where I mentioned we should have gotten a couple of those and then hit a liquor store and added the real thing for an even greater FROSTY TREAT!!! If ya know what I'm saying!?
2. New Orleans has drive through DAIQUIRI stands where you can literally go through the line and grab your favorite Alcoholic beverage and then head off to where ever it is you're going! They also allow open containers in cars which was a bit strange but hey what ever floats your boat right! I guess in New Orleans..."One For The Road" really stands as far as possibilities go and its LEGAL!!!
3. Another big thing here is Above Ground Cemeteries! They are very mystical looking with all kinds of monuments and phallic structures reaching toward the heavens! We didn't actually go in any but you can see them very clearly from the freeways and it was another great experience to take in along the way!!!
4. Not To Offend but whatever you do, do not even acknowledge street people in New Orleans, if you talk to them they will talk your ear off and tell stories and follow up in the creepiest of ways! If you give them anything, their friends and others will see this and then follow you until you give them money too! Best strategy is the hardest for me...Just Ignore Them! Same goes in Atlanta but that is a story for another time!
On my way however I was able to stop in Shreveport, Louisiana where I was told it was like the "ARMPIT" 0f Las Vegas very jokingly by friends of mine! I didn't care though and needed a place to use the restroom and grab lunch so I pulled over and hit up the Eldorado Casino and Resort in town! I decided to hit some Penny Slots for a few minutes and within 5 minutes time, I took $5 and turned it into enough money to buy lunch, buy souvenirs, and some gas and head back out on the road! Now I've always had pretty good luck over my life time with Penny Slots! Most people make fun of me but when you're approximately $1500-2000 up over the course of a life time on Penny Slots, I'm usually the one laughing all the way to the Cashier's Cage!!! : )
After working my way through the madness I met up with Brother Sherah in Metairie, LA just outside of New Orleans from some killer Chinese food before moving on to one of my favorite spots of all time, Cafe Du Monde, where they make BEIGNETS!!! For those of you who don't know, Beignets are basically fluffy down fried in (very healthy, not) grease and then DOUSED or should I say DUMPED with Powdered Sugar!!! Those in combination with your favorite beverage of milk, coffee or hot cocoa and you are one Happy Camper!
The next day I headed out with Sherah to explore the local surroundings! We went through some breath-taking areas with lots of life, activity and spirit and then we also hit the opposite of the spectrum and saw all of the heartache, loss and destruction of some of the Hurricane Katrina areas! I was even lucky enough to get a first hand tour of the LOWER NINTH WARD where they were hit the hardest and was also one of the least wealthy areas of New Orleans! It is simply indescribable what I saw in my time there! I tried to capture it with some photos but they don't come close! Now, I must explain that I am rather Spiritual, more so then Religious though I believe in most of the same things anyways, and I have always had a certain ability to sense energy and feeling and other strange things... In New Orleans there was such a dichotomy of emotions and energy and life! I felt this immense energy on one hand that seemed to bring great life to the city, a very proud and passionate vibe, and yet on the other I sensed great despair and a lack of life almost if you will!? It was very peculiar but powerful and very moving for me as well! After some exploration in the Ninth ward, we went to visit the Chalmette Battle Fields where there were Plantations, Monuments, Cannons, and lots to explore, however it was getting dark at the time so it was not only was it a bit spooky but I was a little on edge as well! We walked for a ways despite this and came to the Mississippi River and Levy there that didn't happen to be the one that broke but it was sure still another great sight and especially at night! I had no idea how large it was and barges were floating down it as we watched from the shore! After some reflecting and good conversation we headed back to grab a EUROPEAN dinner (It was about 8:30-9:00pm) at the Harrah's Casino and Resort next to the River walk in downtown New Orleans!
Again for those who know me! I am a "SUCKA" for all you can eat buffets and though I am fairly average in stature, I can put down a "COW'S" worth of meat and other delicacies in these types of scenarios!!! I did not disappoint and before you know it Sherah and I were dining on some of the best buffet I've had in years! We ate too many crabs and shrimp to count and followed it up with some great dessert! Craw fish Jambalaya, and various other friend local delicacies also followed suit!!! After that we grabbed a drink at this fun bar in the middle of the casino where they had an ice bar! I hadn't seen this before for some reason, perhaps I wasn't paying attention but this was like a freezer ledge at the most inner part of the marble bar where you could put your drink or Bud Light and it would keep it nicely chilled while we watched the NCAA final! Oh yeah, PS I picked North Carolina to win it all and they did! In the end I did not want them to win as I had other favorites but I still had a feeling that despite my best interests, they would! Didn't win any money in pools, but still a great experience watching March Madness, my favorite time of year also because of my Pisces background, across the country!!!
After some more gambling where we came out even, we decided to head home for the night and rest up for another killer day to come!
My last night in New Orleans we went down to Loyola University and Tulane University and toured around campus for a little while! Loyola reminded me of Washington State in that most of their buildings were red brick which I absolutely love! There was one building however that looked strikingly different than all the rest! Sherah told me that long ago Loyola didn't have the funds to pay for brand new/from scratch planning so they came across this blueprint that was originally for a ship that never actually was built! They apparently used this as a basic blueprint for the building to be built and today it stands with all of its windows in the shape of oblong circles that instantly made me feel as if I was on a cruise ship! Pretty crazy stuff but true!
After reliving my collegiate years we hopped on the New Orleans Trolley which took us further into Uptown, New Orleans where we ate at another great Mexican restaurant whose name escapes me at this moment! They have the best SANGRIA Margaritas in town and after one large one we were both a bit GITTY and Ready to Rock!!! We took the Trolley again back to Sherah's car and hit up downtown along Canal Street and many others where we actually got to sit in on a Live Jazz Session and enjoy some local micro brew that also impressed my taste buds! After another full evening of fun, we headed back to Metairie, LA and I spent the rest of the night Facebooking and prepping to head to Atlanta, Georgia and Brother Jessica! Can't wait to share more but before I go here's a few more fun facts for you guys!
1. New Orleans has little hole in the wall SNOW BALL establishments where they served shaved ice with just about any flavor of topping you can imagine! They even had Margarita, Wine, Sangria, and many other Alcoholic flavorings but minus the alcohol! This was about the point where I mentioned we should have gotten a couple of those and then hit a liquor store and added the real thing for an even greater FROSTY TREAT!!! If ya know what I'm saying!?
2. New Orleans has drive through DAIQUIRI stands where you can literally go through the line and grab your favorite Alcoholic beverage and then head off to where ever it is you're going! They also allow open containers in cars which was a bit strange but hey what ever floats your boat right! I guess in New Orleans..."One For The Road" really stands as far as possibilities go and its LEGAL!!!
3. Another big thing here is Above Ground Cemeteries! They are very mystical looking with all kinds of monuments and phallic structures reaching toward the heavens! We didn't actually go in any but you can see them very clearly from the freeways and it was another great experience to take in along the way!!!
4. Not To Offend but whatever you do, do not even acknowledge street people in New Orleans, if you talk to them they will talk your ear off and tell stories and follow up in the creepiest of ways! If you give them anything, their friends and others will see this and then follow you until you give them money too! Best strategy is the hardest for me...Just Ignore Them! Same goes in Atlanta but that is a story for another time!
And Then It Was On To Fort Worth, TX!!! I Cannot Wait To Share!!!
Mack Back...
How is everyone!? Now I am a few days removed from this latest chapter of my road trip so bear with me but be ready for some zingers... ok, ok, probably just light chuckles and most likely they will be directed toward me!!!
I headed out of Dallas for the shortest of my road trip car explorations for about an hour or so up to Fort Worth, TX where I met up with another Absolutely Amazing Brother named Allison!
When I got there I will admit I was a bit under the weather despite the sun ablaze in the sky due to learning all about what it is like to be a "SOCIALITE" in Dallas with April! I would shortly recover after arriving though thanks to a "5 Dollar Foot Long" at Subway and a two and a half hour "Power Nap!!!"
Afterward we drove around and toured some of the major down town areas including a few local suburbs of Dallas/Ft. Worth, where I took in the new Cowboy's Stadium and "Jerry Jone's Palace" if you will! It truly is remarkable looking from the outside! And it apparently still has a removable roof so that they can open the roof up on Sundays and have the GOD's watch their favorite team the Cowboys!? Whatever!!! ;)
We also got a chance to see the local HUMONGOUS water park as well as 6 Flags although they were closed till later in the summer! I don't think my stomach in its present state could have afforded some of those Coasters any how!!! The Texas Rangers stadium is beautiful too and I greatly enjoyed touring around that as well! Even drove on NOLAN RYAN Ave.!!! I loved that guy!!!
After some more driving around (and snapping pics) we went to the best Mexican restaurant in the world... Joe T. Garcia's!!! The place was massive with outdoor and indoor seating for what seamed like hundreds and then some!!! We settled down to family style Fajitas, which happen to be my favorite! And some fantastic margaritas that still leave me wanting more! (Unofficial Alcoholic Drink Of The Mack's '09 Mack'n The Nation Tour... MARGARITAS!!!" Yes Sir!
After dinner we went to see the Stockyards which are where they used to bring cattle from miles around to be bought and sold and traded like stocks! They even had a building dedicated to the trading! Hmm... Stocks vs. Cattle!? Interesting! There was a Rodeo there that evening so we decided to partake in some local festivities and though I had been to a few rodeo's in the past, this one was rather enjoyable with living singing, kid games (for me of course!) and everything else you could imagine in a "Ring O' Dirt!" We even had the chance to knock a few more items off my Bucket List if you will! I had seen that another brother of ours had come and visited and got to ride a Steer while attending the stockyards so I was most anxious to do the same! I was lucky in the end as this Steer was rather "ROTUND" or "ROBUST" if you prefer rather and he had to hoist my muscular, athletic frame onto the "BEAST!" Allison was there to capture it all on Camera and I must say that not only was my Steer BIGGER Angela, but I rode him BAREBACK!!! So in the most childish of ways... Nah, Nah, Nah-Nah-Nah!!! I Win and paid for it later! Bare Back CAN be PAINFUL!!! ;) Besides the Live Steer, I also finally climbed on a Mechanical Bull and rode that as well! I have pictures to prove it but unfortunately it appears the video that Allison took of the Hilarity did not make it and will be lost forever in the ethers!!! Sorry Folks! Guess I'm gonna have to do that one again! After a killer evening of Food, Friends, And Fun! We retired to bed with visions of NASCAR dancing in our heads!!!
The next day we arose with a clatter and it wasn't us but Allison's 4 Pugs that was the matter! I loved them as they were all super friendly! Almost TOO MUCH! After much tongue lashing and that wasn't even on my part but theirs, we set off for the Texas Motor Speedway where it seemed like everyone else in the state of Texas was headed! Upon arriving I couldn't help but notice the Fanfare and Passion that went on between the Fans and their favorite Driver's! There were flags everywhere with various names and numbers and colleges and even some "Confederate" one's! Wasn't quite sure what to think about this one and in order to avoid any future death threats, I will move on! Still a sight of all sights to be seen though!
The race itself was more then I could have asked for! Allison got us killer seats that would have equated to 50 yard line in Football! We could see everything and to assist us in the experience, we also rented headsets so we could hear everything that was going on in the race and even the chatter between drivers/pit crews/spotters/etc!!! It was AWESOME! I watched as my new favorite driver, #6 David Ragan eventually took 4th in a great race! Many of you know I love the #6, what most of you don't is that it isn't simply because I was born on March 6th! There is something very magical, powerful if you will about that # to me and I deeply love and appreciate it!
While at the race we did a little bit of everything! I took photos in a Nascar! Sweetness! I ate lots of great food, though not as great for you! I drank beer in an open container in the parking lot and inside! You can actually bring your own coolers in with beverages! Best idea ever! Nascar does it right! LISTEN UP NCAA FOOTBALL! We need BEER in games!!! ;) After tons of sun-soaked hours of revving engines and lots of burning rubber stuck in our noses, we headed out to another great local establishment the Arlington State House where apparently they've had the Best Chicken Fried Steaks since the Beginning of Time Itself!!! Great home cooking, awesome red meat! Fat and Happy I was once again!!! After a few more sunset photos we retired to Allison's beautiful home and her 4 VERY hungry Pugs and watched some NCAA madness before hitting the sack!
I would leave the next day but not before making some very memorable and unforgettable connections with a brother I never met before but one that I hope to cherish till its my time to leave this place! Thank you for everything! I hope to be back again, who knows maybe I'll find a job there!? I wouldn't mind that! I miss you already! ;)
MACK OUT!!!
How is everyone!? Now I am a few days removed from this latest chapter of my road trip so bear with me but be ready for some zingers... ok, ok, probably just light chuckles and most likely they will be directed toward me!!!
I headed out of Dallas for the shortest of my road trip car explorations for about an hour or so up to Fort Worth, TX where I met up with another Absolutely Amazing Brother named Allison!
When I got there I will admit I was a bit under the weather despite the sun ablaze in the sky due to learning all about what it is like to be a "SOCIALITE" in Dallas with April! I would shortly recover after arriving though thanks to a "5 Dollar Foot Long" at Subway and a two and a half hour "Power Nap!!!"
Afterward we drove around and toured some of the major down town areas including a few local suburbs of Dallas/Ft. Worth, where I took in the new Cowboy's Stadium and "Jerry Jone's Palace" if you will! It truly is remarkable looking from the outside! And it apparently still has a removable roof so that they can open the roof up on Sundays and have the GOD's watch their favorite team the Cowboys!? Whatever!!! ;)
We also got a chance to see the local HUMONGOUS water park as well as 6 Flags although they were closed till later in the summer! I don't think my stomach in its present state could have afforded some of those Coasters any how!!! The Texas Rangers stadium is beautiful too and I greatly enjoyed touring around that as well! Even drove on NOLAN RYAN Ave.!!! I loved that guy!!!
After some more driving around (and snapping pics) we went to the best Mexican restaurant in the world... Joe T. Garcia's!!! The place was massive with outdoor and indoor seating for what seamed like hundreds and then some!!! We settled down to family style Fajitas, which happen to be my favorite! And some fantastic margaritas that still leave me wanting more! (Unofficial Alcoholic Drink Of The Mack's '09 Mack'n The Nation Tour... MARGARITAS!!!" Yes Sir!
After dinner we went to see the Stockyards which are where they used to bring cattle from miles around to be bought and sold and traded like stocks! They even had a building dedicated to the trading! Hmm... Stocks vs. Cattle!? Interesting! There was a Rodeo there that evening so we decided to partake in some local festivities and though I had been to a few rodeo's in the past, this one was rather enjoyable with living singing, kid games (for me of course!) and everything else you could imagine in a "Ring O' Dirt!" We even had the chance to knock a few more items off my Bucket List if you will! I had seen that another brother of ours had come and visited and got to ride a Steer while attending the stockyards so I was most anxious to do the same! I was lucky in the end as this Steer was rather "ROTUND" or "ROBUST" if you prefer rather and he had to hoist my muscular, athletic frame onto the "BEAST!" Allison was there to capture it all on Camera and I must say that not only was my Steer BIGGER Angela, but I rode him BAREBACK!!! So in the most childish of ways... Nah, Nah, Nah-Nah-Nah!!! I Win and paid for it later! Bare Back CAN be PAINFUL!!! ;) Besides the Live Steer, I also finally climbed on a Mechanical Bull and rode that as well! I have pictures to prove it but unfortunately it appears the video that Allison took of the Hilarity did not make it and will be lost forever in the ethers!!! Sorry Folks! Guess I'm gonna have to do that one again! After a killer evening of Food, Friends, And Fun! We retired to bed with visions of NASCAR dancing in our heads!!!
The next day we arose with a clatter and it wasn't us but Allison's 4 Pugs that was the matter! I loved them as they were all super friendly! Almost TOO MUCH! After much tongue lashing and that wasn't even on my part but theirs, we set off for the Texas Motor Speedway where it seemed like everyone else in the state of Texas was headed! Upon arriving I couldn't help but notice the Fanfare and Passion that went on between the Fans and their favorite Driver's! There were flags everywhere with various names and numbers and colleges and even some "Confederate" one's! Wasn't quite sure what to think about this one and in order to avoid any future death threats, I will move on! Still a sight of all sights to be seen though!
The race itself was more then I could have asked for! Allison got us killer seats that would have equated to 50 yard line in Football! We could see everything and to assist us in the experience, we also rented headsets so we could hear everything that was going on in the race and even the chatter between drivers/pit crews/spotters/etc!!! It was AWESOME! I watched as my new favorite driver, #6 David Ragan eventually took 4th in a great race! Many of you know I love the #6, what most of you don't is that it isn't simply because I was born on March 6th! There is something very magical, powerful if you will about that # to me and I deeply love and appreciate it!
While at the race we did a little bit of everything! I took photos in a Nascar! Sweetness! I ate lots of great food, though not as great for you! I drank beer in an open container in the parking lot and inside! You can actually bring your own coolers in with beverages! Best idea ever! Nascar does it right! LISTEN UP NCAA FOOTBALL! We need BEER in games!!! ;) After tons of sun-soaked hours of revving engines and lots of burning rubber stuck in our noses, we headed out to another great local establishment the Arlington State House where apparently they've had the Best Chicken Fried Steaks since the Beginning of Time Itself!!! Great home cooking, awesome red meat! Fat and Happy I was once again!!! After a few more sunset photos we retired to Allison's beautiful home and her 4 VERY hungry Pugs and watched some NCAA madness before hitting the sack!
I would leave the next day but not before making some very memorable and unforgettable connections with a brother I never met before but one that I hope to cherish till its my time to leave this place! Thank you for everything! I hope to be back again, who knows maybe I'll find a job there!? I wouldn't mind that! I miss you already! ;)
MACK OUT!!!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Dallas, TX: Home To Some Big Stars, The Stars, And One Star Of A Brother!!!
AND I'M BACK!!!...
After an amazing and refreshing period of time in San Antonio, TX I headed off for Dallas, TX to stay with brother April and see what this new city had in store for me! From the moment I arrived it was on and April and I proceeded to paint Dallas, the City with a Big BLUE Star...Very, Very, RED!!!
We toured downtown Dallas, which was amazing because we didn't even need to drive, we simply hopped a Trolley and headed into town to sample local delicacies and treat ourselves to some great refreshments on an amazing though blustery day in Dallas! Dallas is one of those cities where you go out to be seen and the Mack did not disappoint! April and I hit one hot spot after another each afternoon and evening and she made my stay in Dallas, one I'll never forget! We made new friends and hung out with a bunch of hers! We even managed to fit in a Dallas Stars hockey game against the Calgary Flames! Great game, Great stadium, Great company to do it with!!!
On top of all the "SOCIALITE" activities we partook in! I was also witness to more TEXAS storms of GARGANTUAN proportion!!! We witnessed Thunder & Lightning that literally shook our building! It caused flooding in the parking garage, luckily Yarissa can swim and it was truly an amazing show of NATURE's WILL and SHEER power in this world we live in! I'll never forget it!
After the better part of a week with April in Dallas it was nearly time to head out to Fort Worth, TX and spend some time with Brother Allison! Before I end this latest chapter of the Mack Blog though I wanted to take a step back... BACK INTO TIME...and reflect upon certain aspects of the trip so far that I either skipped over or completely forgot to mention along the way!
Random Facts and Ramblings...
1. In Arizona, they have Suburban or SUV Cops who sit along the side of the freeway and for anyone going 10mph over the speed limit, all of a sudden you see a Large, Blinding Flash, and Ta-Da, You have officially been photographed! Your Vehicle, Your License Plate, Your Face! Expect a little mail to come your way with a ticket attached and the proof to go along! Now I must say that I never had this happen to me but when it did to a car a few lengths ahead of me! I nearly swerved off the road in sheer terror! I've never seen anything like this before! What happened to the good old highway patrol chasing you down when you broke the law! I may pay for this but I will state that the ARIZONA Highway Patrolmen are all LAZY Sons of Guns and can't even get off their LAZY SUV Butts to give tickets anymore! Shame on YOU 'Zona!!! Not A Big Fan!!! Boo with a Capital B!!!
2. In New Mexico, they have random drunk driving check points where they apparently pull everyone over and expect for drunk driving! While I agree that this is a problem in our society and that we need to stop driving after drinking!... It is also in my opinion whether you agree or disagree that this is NOT fair or appropriate! I was scared CRAPLESS while in New Mexico, anytime I would go out and even have a drink with dinner I had worry in the back of my mind about this! .08 is not very hard to get to and I don't feel that it is fair to pull everyone and their mother over to check for this! I understand if I'm swerving all over the road but COME ON!!! Shame On YOU New Mexico!!! Again... Not a FAN and Boo with a Capital B!!!
3. There is apparently a D&D Farm in Harper, TX! Is this where all the Cowboys go after sunset to play Dungeons & Dragons!? You tell me! ;)
4. They have Cops in Texas with their patrol cars labeled as Constables!? Never seen this before but I was told that these individuals are the head of the force! Be Forewarned!!!
5. Everyone in Texas drives FORD! Everyone in Louisiana drives CHEVY!!! No Joke! I've SEEN IT!!!
6. I came across a NOAH's ARK Animal Rescue...Ok I get that one, but a NOAH's ARK SELF STORAGE!? Do they let you STORE ANIMALS there!?
7. If you ever go to Wembley, TX...Apparently it is a "LITTLE BIT OF HEAVEN!?" I did not see this but perhaps!?...
8. Apparently Shreveport, LA is the "ARMPIT" of Las Vegas! I've seen it and I would AGREE!!! Though I did WIN in under 5 minutes and made my "bathroom break" there quite profitable passing through!!!
9. Every City in America apparently has a "FRONTAGE RD!" Don't Question...I've seen it!!!
10. I came across an establishment called the "PIGGLY WIGGLY" in Louisiana! Not sure what they DO or SERVE there!? Anybody help on this one!!??
11. Anyone driving in Louisiana on the freeway...WATCH OUT for POTHOLES!!! I definitely put the YARIS through the GRIND!!!
12. I've seen more BEADS hanging from REAR VIEW MIRRORS in Louisiana! Where the heck do these come from and how did they get them!? ;)
13. One sign in Lafayette, LA read "Diesel Gas: 7.9 cents!?" Yeah try maybe in 1940!!! Clearly a TYPO!!!
Well...That's about all I have for you for now! Hope you enjoyed some random facts mixed with some wild ranting on my part! Please don't take offense to any of it as it is meant in good fun and just for the pointing out! Hope all is well in your neck of the woods! MACK OUT!!!
After an amazing and refreshing period of time in San Antonio, TX I headed off for Dallas, TX to stay with brother April and see what this new city had in store for me! From the moment I arrived it was on and April and I proceeded to paint Dallas, the City with a Big BLUE Star...Very, Very, RED!!!
We toured downtown Dallas, which was amazing because we didn't even need to drive, we simply hopped a Trolley and headed into town to sample local delicacies and treat ourselves to some great refreshments on an amazing though blustery day in Dallas! Dallas is one of those cities where you go out to be seen and the Mack did not disappoint! April and I hit one hot spot after another each afternoon and evening and she made my stay in Dallas, one I'll never forget! We made new friends and hung out with a bunch of hers! We even managed to fit in a Dallas Stars hockey game against the Calgary Flames! Great game, Great stadium, Great company to do it with!!!
On top of all the "SOCIALITE" activities we partook in! I was also witness to more TEXAS storms of GARGANTUAN proportion!!! We witnessed Thunder & Lightning that literally shook our building! It caused flooding in the parking garage, luckily Yarissa can swim and it was truly an amazing show of NATURE's WILL and SHEER power in this world we live in! I'll never forget it!
After the better part of a week with April in Dallas it was nearly time to head out to Fort Worth, TX and spend some time with Brother Allison! Before I end this latest chapter of the Mack Blog though I wanted to take a step back... BACK INTO TIME...and reflect upon certain aspects of the trip so far that I either skipped over or completely forgot to mention along the way!
Random Facts and Ramblings...
1. In Arizona, they have Suburban or SUV Cops who sit along the side of the freeway and for anyone going 10mph over the speed limit, all of a sudden you see a Large, Blinding Flash, and Ta-Da, You have officially been photographed! Your Vehicle, Your License Plate, Your Face! Expect a little mail to come your way with a ticket attached and the proof to go along! Now I must say that I never had this happen to me but when it did to a car a few lengths ahead of me! I nearly swerved off the road in sheer terror! I've never seen anything like this before! What happened to the good old highway patrol chasing you down when you broke the law! I may pay for this but I will state that the ARIZONA Highway Patrolmen are all LAZY Sons of Guns and can't even get off their LAZY SUV Butts to give tickets anymore! Shame on YOU 'Zona!!! Not A Big Fan!!! Boo with a Capital B!!!
2. In New Mexico, they have random drunk driving check points where they apparently pull everyone over and expect for drunk driving! While I agree that this is a problem in our society and that we need to stop driving after drinking!... It is also in my opinion whether you agree or disagree that this is NOT fair or appropriate! I was scared CRAPLESS while in New Mexico, anytime I would go out and even have a drink with dinner I had worry in the back of my mind about this! .08 is not very hard to get to and I don't feel that it is fair to pull everyone and their mother over to check for this! I understand if I'm swerving all over the road but COME ON!!! Shame On YOU New Mexico!!! Again... Not a FAN and Boo with a Capital B!!!
3. There is apparently a D&D Farm in Harper, TX! Is this where all the Cowboys go after sunset to play Dungeons & Dragons!? You tell me! ;)
4. They have Cops in Texas with their patrol cars labeled as Constables!? Never seen this before but I was told that these individuals are the head of the force! Be Forewarned!!!
5. Everyone in Texas drives FORD! Everyone in Louisiana drives CHEVY!!! No Joke! I've SEEN IT!!!
6. I came across a NOAH's ARK Animal Rescue...Ok I get that one, but a NOAH's ARK SELF STORAGE!? Do they let you STORE ANIMALS there!?
7. If you ever go to Wembley, TX...Apparently it is a "LITTLE BIT OF HEAVEN!?" I did not see this but perhaps!?...
8. Apparently Shreveport, LA is the "ARMPIT" of Las Vegas! I've seen it and I would AGREE!!! Though I did WIN in under 5 minutes and made my "bathroom break" there quite profitable passing through!!!
9. Every City in America apparently has a "FRONTAGE RD!" Don't Question...I've seen it!!!
10. I came across an establishment called the "PIGGLY WIGGLY" in Louisiana! Not sure what they DO or SERVE there!? Anybody help on this one!!??
11. Anyone driving in Louisiana on the freeway...WATCH OUT for POTHOLES!!! I definitely put the YARIS through the GRIND!!!
12. I've seen more BEADS hanging from REAR VIEW MIRRORS in Louisiana! Where the heck do these come from and how did they get them!? ;)
13. One sign in Lafayette, LA read "Diesel Gas: 7.9 cents!?" Yeah try maybe in 1940!!! Clearly a TYPO!!!
Well...That's about all I have for you for now! Hope you enjoyed some random facts mixed with some wild ranting on my part! Please don't take offense to any of it as it is meant in good fun and just for the pointing out! Hope all is well in your neck of the woods! MACK OUT!!!
Flashed New Mexico, Now On To Texas And Some Killer Firsts!!!
Well Hello Again...
In the efforts of catching everyone including myself up to speed on this journey I will continue again from where I last left off! After an amazing time in New Mexico it was off to the BIG state of Texas where I would finally see for myself if Texas was In Fact too BIG for the MACK or if the MACK was Actually Too BIG for Texas!
The drive was again extremely beautiful! I have had all the luck in my travels from state to state in regards to weather and the SUN did not disappoint on this day either! As I crossed into Texas I really took in the large never-ending plains and very slight hills that frequented my route! They seemed to roll on and on for what seemed like eternity but I did not grow tired of this! Everywhere you looked there was wild stock with cows, horses, sheep, and birds of all species! I began to see those singular MINI-Oil Rigs that are so prevalent in these parts! All working away for a little of the fortune that there is in that greatly sought after resource of ours!
As I continued on, I passed through a town called Junction where I almost stopped and camped out in my car but I decided with just a few more miles I could make it to San Antonio! When I finally arrived it was late and the only thing I could find that was economical was a KOA campground on the outskirts of San Antonio, next to the AT&T center! An area that I would later come to find was... (How Do You Say...) Not the GREATEST of areas to choose to settle down! None-The-Less I pulled up and though it was after hours, miraculously made it through the guarded gates into the camp ground where I met a very nice gentleman who let me stay the night! He was full of stories and we actually stood at the gate for about a half hour talking about my travels and where he had been in days past! He had actually lived in Alaska so we instantly had a connection and I cannot thank this gentleman enough for his hospitality and great advice! Despite the area I was in, the KOA campground was immaculately clean and hospitable, unfortunately I was still dealing with a case of the "ALLERGIES" ever since Arizona and probably kept some campers up with my coughing and wheezing! The Yaris, despite all of her amazing features and sheer "Awesomeness" as a vehicle proved to be a worthy adversary when it came to sleeping in her across the back seat! I tossed and turned and tossed some more! Probably only got about 2 hours of sleep or so but was thankful for a safe place to "Kind Of" rest!!!
The next day I headed into town and visited my first Laundry mat on the road! It was here that I met a couple of very friendly and open individuals and we story-told for what seemed like hours but in a good way! In the end this was where I discovered some places to look for work and also the fact that Lil Wayne, T-Pain, Gym Class Heroes and more were in town! In fact I was able to get a last minute ticket, front row of the balcony for the event just a few hours from this very moment! On another TANGENT, I'd just like to state for the record that it is times like these in random places along my journey where I have been LUCKY enough to come across random strangers who were both kind, open, professional (usually ;) and willing to take the time to help someone in need! I have more confidence and respect for this country due to this very fact! I have yet to meet anyone who has been or done the opposite! I did not expect this, and for that I am greatly appreciative!
Now back to the journey! Sorry about that TANGENT!!! That evening I stayed in another MOTEL 6 (Who REALLY should SPONSOR me!!!) and headed off to the Lil' Wayne concert at the same AT&T arena where I stayed the night before! It was amazing, what a diverse audience and it was a good show all things considered! Unfortunately T-Pain could not make it due to a medical emergency earlier that day but I heard about it and don't blame him for not making it! The "theatrics" were awesome with Extreme Pyro-Technics amongst many other aesthetics that really made the show "POP!" It was well worth the ticket price and I would recommend his show to anyone into the newer age of rap!
After the show I retired to my Motel 6 where I hunkered down as the dreaded "STORMS" that my MOMMA and every NEWS Channel in Texas had warned us about! In fact the town of Junction that I had passed through the other night saw two and half inch balls of hail and severe winds and rain! I luckily missed that as I did not have any undercover parking but it was still a giant "Cluster F" of weather!!! It continued though less drastic in the morning where I went to meet a good family friend Eric Haugstad and his family! We went to lunch at Papadeaux's which is a great seafood chain restaurant in these parts where he treated me to a couple more firsts and check marks off my Bucket List! We dined on Jumbalaya Soup, Alligator, Prepared Crawfish Etoufee and blackened Crawfish!!! By the time we were done exploring and experimenting, he literally had to roll me out of the joint!!! ;)
The next day I took in downtown San Antonio and got to see the Alamo for the first time! It was pretty interesting and reading about the history and all made for a memorable experience! Right next door is the Menger Hotel where Teddy Roosevelt and his "ORIGINAL" Rough Rider's used to stay and frequent!!! Of course then there was the RIVER WALK where I sampled some absolutely Thirst-Quenching Margarita's, Did some shopping and saw what downtown and the San Antonio River were all about! Another beautiful day and I even came across some fellow Washingtonian's during my Margarita libation!!! They were on a motorcycle tour and were headed to the Carolina's! They also happened to have several daughters that all graduated from Washington State University! It was pretty cool spending time in foreign land talking about a University that I am still to this day, so Passionate about regarding my education and the times I had there!
After a full day of exploring, I went back to the Haugstad's home and stayed the night with them, all the while having some of the best home-cooking I've had in some time! Tina prepared the most amazing meal with every side you could imagine and THEN SOME! We had some TEXAS-Sized steaks and all the fixings! After ward we ate home-baked pie and then all fat and happy, Iretired to bed! I am so thankful to Eric, Tina and their family for their amazing hospitality,cooking and conversation! You are all amazing and you truly made my trip!
Despite the last few (OK, Many) paragraphs of good times and good things, between New Mexico and Texas, it was also a very trying period of time for me! I spent a lot of time alone for one thing and the storms that came through dismantled WI-FI in many spots I stayed. This was were I fell greatly behind in my blogging/photos and videos! I also had several unexpected expenses pop up when I had to get a lube oil and filter taken care of and they pointed out that my tires were about ready to blow up! 4 tires and a new laptop later due to unforeseen computer issues and Mr. Matthew was temporarily in the "RED!" Despite this, though I came out of San Antonio newly refreshed and ready for bigger and better times! May the road ahead not disappoint, keep me safe and bring many more memories! Till Next Time...MACK OUT!!!
In the efforts of catching everyone including myself up to speed on this journey I will continue again from where I last left off! After an amazing time in New Mexico it was off to the BIG state of Texas where I would finally see for myself if Texas was In Fact too BIG for the MACK or if the MACK was Actually Too BIG for Texas!
The drive was again extremely beautiful! I have had all the luck in my travels from state to state in regards to weather and the SUN did not disappoint on this day either! As I crossed into Texas I really took in the large never-ending plains and very slight hills that frequented my route! They seemed to roll on and on for what seemed like eternity but I did not grow tired of this! Everywhere you looked there was wild stock with cows, horses, sheep, and birds of all species! I began to see those singular MINI-Oil Rigs that are so prevalent in these parts! All working away for a little of the fortune that there is in that greatly sought after resource of ours!
As I continued on, I passed through a town called Junction where I almost stopped and camped out in my car but I decided with just a few more miles I could make it to San Antonio! When I finally arrived it was late and the only thing I could find that was economical was a KOA campground on the outskirts of San Antonio, next to the AT&T center! An area that I would later come to find was... (How Do You Say...) Not the GREATEST of areas to choose to settle down! None-The-Less I pulled up and though it was after hours, miraculously made it through the guarded gates into the camp ground where I met a very nice gentleman who let me stay the night! He was full of stories and we actually stood at the gate for about a half hour talking about my travels and where he had been in days past! He had actually lived in Alaska so we instantly had a connection and I cannot thank this gentleman enough for his hospitality and great advice! Despite the area I was in, the KOA campground was immaculately clean and hospitable, unfortunately I was still dealing with a case of the "ALLERGIES" ever since Arizona and probably kept some campers up with my coughing and wheezing! The Yaris, despite all of her amazing features and sheer "Awesomeness" as a vehicle proved to be a worthy adversary when it came to sleeping in her across the back seat! I tossed and turned and tossed some more! Probably only got about 2 hours of sleep or so but was thankful for a safe place to "Kind Of" rest!!!
The next day I headed into town and visited my first Laundry mat on the road! It was here that I met a couple of very friendly and open individuals and we story-told for what seemed like hours but in a good way! In the end this was where I discovered some places to look for work and also the fact that Lil Wayne, T-Pain, Gym Class Heroes and more were in town! In fact I was able to get a last minute ticket, front row of the balcony for the event just a few hours from this very moment! On another TANGENT, I'd just like to state for the record that it is times like these in random places along my journey where I have been LUCKY enough to come across random strangers who were both kind, open, professional (usually ;) and willing to take the time to help someone in need! I have more confidence and respect for this country due to this very fact! I have yet to meet anyone who has been or done the opposite! I did not expect this, and for that I am greatly appreciative!
Now back to the journey! Sorry about that TANGENT!!! That evening I stayed in another MOTEL 6 (Who REALLY should SPONSOR me!!!) and headed off to the Lil' Wayne concert at the same AT&T arena where I stayed the night before! It was amazing, what a diverse audience and it was a good show all things considered! Unfortunately T-Pain could not make it due to a medical emergency earlier that day but I heard about it and don't blame him for not making it! The "theatrics" were awesome with Extreme Pyro-Technics amongst many other aesthetics that really made the show "POP!" It was well worth the ticket price and I would recommend his show to anyone into the newer age of rap!
After the show I retired to my Motel 6 where I hunkered down as the dreaded "STORMS" that my MOMMA and every NEWS Channel in Texas had warned us about! In fact the town of Junction that I had passed through the other night saw two and half inch balls of hail and severe winds and rain! I luckily missed that as I did not have any undercover parking but it was still a giant "Cluster F" of weather!!! It continued though less drastic in the morning where I went to meet a good family friend Eric Haugstad and his family! We went to lunch at Papadeaux's which is a great seafood chain restaurant in these parts where he treated me to a couple more firsts and check marks off my Bucket List! We dined on Jumbalaya Soup, Alligator, Prepared Crawfish Etoufee and blackened Crawfish!!! By the time we were done exploring and experimenting, he literally had to roll me out of the joint!!! ;)
The next day I took in downtown San Antonio and got to see the Alamo for the first time! It was pretty interesting and reading about the history and all made for a memorable experience! Right next door is the Menger Hotel where Teddy Roosevelt and his "ORIGINAL" Rough Rider's used to stay and frequent!!! Of course then there was the RIVER WALK where I sampled some absolutely Thirst-Quenching Margarita's, Did some shopping and saw what downtown and the San Antonio River were all about! Another beautiful day and I even came across some fellow Washingtonian's during my Margarita libation!!! They were on a motorcycle tour and were headed to the Carolina's! They also happened to have several daughters that all graduated from Washington State University! It was pretty cool spending time in foreign land talking about a University that I am still to this day, so Passionate about regarding my education and the times I had there!
After a full day of exploring, I went back to the Haugstad's home and stayed the night with them, all the while having some of the best home-cooking I've had in some time! Tina prepared the most amazing meal with every side you could imagine and THEN SOME! We had some TEXAS-Sized steaks and all the fixings! After ward we ate home-baked pie and then all fat and happy, Iretired to bed! I am so thankful to Eric, Tina and their family for their amazing hospitality,cooking and conversation! You are all amazing and you truly made my trip!
Despite the last few (OK, Many) paragraphs of good times and good things, between New Mexico and Texas, it was also a very trying period of time for me! I spent a lot of time alone for one thing and the storms that came through dismantled WI-FI in many spots I stayed. This was were I fell greatly behind in my blogging/photos and videos! I also had several unexpected expenses pop up when I had to get a lube oil and filter taken care of and they pointed out that my tires were about ready to blow up! 4 tires and a new laptop later due to unforeseen computer issues and Mr. Matthew was temporarily in the "RED!" Despite this, though I came out of San Antonio newly refreshed and ready for bigger and better times! May the road ahead not disappoint, keep me safe and bring many more memories! Till Next Time...MACK OUT!!!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Off To White Sands, One Of The Most Amazing Places On Earth!!!
Hey Gang,
Well I must say that I was sad to leave Albuquerque, but left there very confident that I would be back again and I will definitely continue to look for work there as well! The climate is amazing and the people are very nice! After heading out though, I was not done with New Mexico quite yet! I headed off to White Sands where I spent some time at the White Sands Missile Range where they set off the first Nuclear bomb and conducted tests deep in the desert! At the site I had to pass through security and unfortunately, the museum and offices were already closed but that didn't stop me from viewing some of the most prolific firepower in our nation's history! It was great getting personal with some of the firepower that has kept our nation safe and freedom alive! As I'm sure you'll see in some of my Facebook pictures, they were quite a sight! I learned a lot and got some history lessons and let my imagination run wild with what that first atomic blast must have been and felt like for those early researchers!
Along this journey, I also took in a Meteor site where the first documented and proven meteor came to earth thousands of years ago and created a two and half mile in diameter hole in the earth's surface! It was another one of those very energetic and powerful sights that was a very spiritual and out of this world experience for me! It was absolutely beautiful and very awe-inspiring! I took some good time to truly let it soak in and then headed again on my way! If you want to see some of what I experienced, definitely check out some of my photos! I would highly recommend this to anyone on a road trip or just passing through!
After some of these amazing experiences, I continued further and on to the actual town of White Sands where I drove out to these endless sand dunes out in the middle of no where that seemed to roll on and on into the horizon! I pulled "Yarissa" over, threw on some flip-flops and ventured out into this very odd oasis! As soon as I did, I knew I was in some place special! Now I will state that I am a very spiritual person rather then any one specific religion and respectful of each and everyone of your beliefs... This was one of the most SPIRITUAL and MOVING places I've ever been in my life! I instantly had this IMMENSE joy and positivity about me! I couldn't even begin to explain what I felt but this singular moment in a trip filled with moments and memories...I will never forget! I can honestly say, it changed me! If you ever get to New Mexico and you don't go to White Sands, I might just call you crazy! You can even rent a sled and go sledding down the dunes! For someone like myself who has been sledding ever since before he could walk in Alaska, I decided to pass and spend more time exploring, taking photos that don't even come close to the experience and just soaking it all in!
After some good time spent, I headed out again and this time it was off to Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico! When I arrived, I discovered that though it was mid afternoon, that it wouldn't be possible to take full advantage of the caves before dark so I decided to stay in the local town that had a General Store, Restaurant, Hotel, and a few other mini-conveniences! It was interesting! I got a room and tried...Mostly UN-Successfully to update pictures/videos/blogs and just hung out before having some good home-cooked (If you can believe it!?) Chicken Fried Steak dish! I did however get to play some old-fashioned "Cruisin' USA" in their MINI-Arcade before heading off to bed with sweet dreams of Caverns to come in my head!!!
Morning after, I woke with a stir and jumped up ready to explore Caves! Something I have never had the honor of doing in my past! I headed about 7 miles East (I really don't know which direction but thought I would guess! You know ME! On a regular basis, I have no idea where I am especially on this road trip besides the State I happen to currently reside in!) Anyways, I digress! The drive up to the mouth of the Caverns was beautiful, I saw just about every kind of Desert Wildlife and Plant Life along the way and when I came up over the hill, the view was spectacular! I headed in and was able to grab a wand that allowed you to punch in #'s along the path and it would recite great facts about the tour! It turned out to be only $4 and was well worth its weight in gold!
I know I have been OVER-stating this but if you haven't guessed... I am a person that lives life and takes in each experience often from the eyes of someone much younger then myself! Say 6 years old or so... Many of you already know this if you have experienced my photography in person! Regardless and MOST definitely respectful of your own beliefs... I live my life to LOVE and to LEARN all that I can in this truly remarkable opportunity we are given! I am very lucky to be alive due to a number of events and circumstances in this life, some that I was born with! You can ask me about these in person if you feel so inclined! I almost could have died 10 years ago this June and am OH SO thankful for every day that I am given! WOW...TANGENT... Anyways, this Cave experience was another one of those moments in time that I will never forget! I learned so much about caves and how they are formed to local history and the discovery of this National treasure! It was another experienced, chalked up against many others to define this journey of mine!
The Caves, featured everything from "THE BIG ROOM" which was one of the largest discovered in the world that extends for goodness knows how long! Its presence was truly "BIG!" Besides that there was a "Whale's Mouth" that looks exactly like it was named and a "Chandelier" that again is exactly as named! There is a "BOTTOMLESS PIT" which was named many years ago before we could accurately map coordinates and though quite deep and large it still is only a couple hundred feet deep! SCARY!!!
After hours of trekking, I took an elevator at least 750 feet deep up to the surface and continued on my journey to San Antonio, TX! This whole experience to date has been life-changing! So many new relationships formed, so many experiences had, once in a life time NO DOUBT!!!
Till Next Time, This Is The Mack Signing Out!!!
Well I must say that I was sad to leave Albuquerque, but left there very confident that I would be back again and I will definitely continue to look for work there as well! The climate is amazing and the people are very nice! After heading out though, I was not done with New Mexico quite yet! I headed off to White Sands where I spent some time at the White Sands Missile Range where they set off the first Nuclear bomb and conducted tests deep in the desert! At the site I had to pass through security and unfortunately, the museum and offices were already closed but that didn't stop me from viewing some of the most prolific firepower in our nation's history! It was great getting personal with some of the firepower that has kept our nation safe and freedom alive! As I'm sure you'll see in some of my Facebook pictures, they were quite a sight! I learned a lot and got some history lessons and let my imagination run wild with what that first atomic blast must have been and felt like for those early researchers!
Along this journey, I also took in a Meteor site where the first documented and proven meteor came to earth thousands of years ago and created a two and half mile in diameter hole in the earth's surface! It was another one of those very energetic and powerful sights that was a very spiritual and out of this world experience for me! It was absolutely beautiful and very awe-inspiring! I took some good time to truly let it soak in and then headed again on my way! If you want to see some of what I experienced, definitely check out some of my photos! I would highly recommend this to anyone on a road trip or just passing through!
After some of these amazing experiences, I continued further and on to the actual town of White Sands where I drove out to these endless sand dunes out in the middle of no where that seemed to roll on and on into the horizon! I pulled "Yarissa" over, threw on some flip-flops and ventured out into this very odd oasis! As soon as I did, I knew I was in some place special! Now I will state that I am a very spiritual person rather then any one specific religion and respectful of each and everyone of your beliefs... This was one of the most SPIRITUAL and MOVING places I've ever been in my life! I instantly had this IMMENSE joy and positivity about me! I couldn't even begin to explain what I felt but this singular moment in a trip filled with moments and memories...I will never forget! I can honestly say, it changed me! If you ever get to New Mexico and you don't go to White Sands, I might just call you crazy! You can even rent a sled and go sledding down the dunes! For someone like myself who has been sledding ever since before he could walk in Alaska, I decided to pass and spend more time exploring, taking photos that don't even come close to the experience and just soaking it all in!
After some good time spent, I headed out again and this time it was off to Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico! When I arrived, I discovered that though it was mid afternoon, that it wouldn't be possible to take full advantage of the caves before dark so I decided to stay in the local town that had a General Store, Restaurant, Hotel, and a few other mini-conveniences! It was interesting! I got a room and tried...Mostly UN-Successfully to update pictures/videos/blogs and just hung out before having some good home-cooked (If you can believe it!?) Chicken Fried Steak dish! I did however get to play some old-fashioned "Cruisin' USA" in their MINI-Arcade before heading off to bed with sweet dreams of Caverns to come in my head!!!
Morning after, I woke with a stir and jumped up ready to explore Caves! Something I have never had the honor of doing in my past! I headed about 7 miles East (I really don't know which direction but thought I would guess! You know ME! On a regular basis, I have no idea where I am especially on this road trip besides the State I happen to currently reside in!) Anyways, I digress! The drive up to the mouth of the Caverns was beautiful, I saw just about every kind of Desert Wildlife and Plant Life along the way and when I came up over the hill, the view was spectacular! I headed in and was able to grab a wand that allowed you to punch in #'s along the path and it would recite great facts about the tour! It turned out to be only $4 and was well worth its weight in gold!
I know I have been OVER-stating this but if you haven't guessed... I am a person that lives life and takes in each experience often from the eyes of someone much younger then myself! Say 6 years old or so... Many of you already know this if you have experienced my photography in person! Regardless and MOST definitely respectful of your own beliefs... I live my life to LOVE and to LEARN all that I can in this truly remarkable opportunity we are given! I am very lucky to be alive due to a number of events and circumstances in this life, some that I was born with! You can ask me about these in person if you feel so inclined! I almost could have died 10 years ago this June and am OH SO thankful for every day that I am given! WOW...TANGENT... Anyways, this Cave experience was another one of those moments in time that I will never forget! I learned so much about caves and how they are formed to local history and the discovery of this National treasure! It was another experienced, chalked up against many others to define this journey of mine!
The Caves, featured everything from "THE BIG ROOM" which was one of the largest discovered in the world that extends for goodness knows how long! Its presence was truly "BIG!" Besides that there was a "Whale's Mouth" that looks exactly like it was named and a "Chandelier" that again is exactly as named! There is a "BOTTOMLESS PIT" which was named many years ago before we could accurately map coordinates and though quite deep and large it still is only a couple hundred feet deep! SCARY!!!
After hours of trekking, I took an elevator at least 750 feet deep up to the surface and continued on my journey to San Antonio, TX! This whole experience to date has been life-changing! So many new relationships formed, so many experiences had, once in a life time NO DOUBT!!!
Till Next Time, This Is The Mack Signing Out!!!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Albuquerque, How I Love You!!!
Well Folks...
I apologize for it being quite awhile since my last post! This has been due in large part to major computer malfunctions, storms, Wi-Fi in hotels that should have worked but were not working and then the fact that some days I did not have time to rest and couldn't find a place to sit down and write! Ok, excuses, excuses, what can I say!? But that's what happened! Anyways...
After rolling into Albuquerque, I was able to connect with fellow Brother Jessica Mc Queston who is finishing up her studies at the University of New Mexico. We met up at the University where I toured around a bit by myself and got to see some of the main campus areas! Beautiful place, very large and very spread out but the Architecture was cool and the Student Union Building or S.U.B. was really nice and high tech as well! This was where I first got to taste MAGNIFICENTNESS that is SONIC!!! I've always seen commercials for this food chain in the Northwest but couldn't ever find any of them around until I was told that recently they have opened a few down in Southern Washington state! The drinks are amazing, the food is pretty good and might I say a much needed and welcomed change from the likes of McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King, etc!!! ;)
After chowing on some good grub, we set off for Old Town, Albuquerque, where there were a ton of little shops in buildings from yester-year! We shopped around and Jess told me stories about t area including ghosts, etc and had a blast! After that we headed back to her and her roomate, Stacey's place in a suburb outside of Albuquerque called Rancho Rio, I believe!
From there it was on to some dinner and drinks with several members of the UNM Chapter of AKPSI before heading out on the town in some professional "duds" to do Albquerque right! My tour guides/beautiful ladies showed me the town, taking me to one club with a beautiful open upstairs where we sampled some fine liquer. The next evening there apparently was to be a Playboy Playmate's birthday there! Next we walked along a strip of local establishments and shops giving me a taste of the area before heading into downtown, downtown and the club scene!
We hit up several clubs there. One, Maloney's reminded me of that old bar from "CHEERS" but this was more of a HIGH CLASS sports bar kind of establishment! Then we hit Club "RAW" where the ladies escorting me for the evening, knew the bartender there! We pretty much danced the night away before hitting a late night food joint for some grease and then came home and relaxed and stayed up way too late talking about life and all things Albuquerque and AKPSI!
After this particular evening, we were all a little exhausted so we went to a fantastic authentic Mexican restaurant where I had a "Christmas Tree" burrito with all of the fixings! I had never heard of ordering this particular plate as a "Christmas Tree" but trusted my new friends and their judgement! In the end, they were right it was amazing! This type of meal basically meant the combination of red and green chile on your burrito and though it can often times be quite hot, this was just right and I still salivate thinking about that meal, today!!!
After some more severe nappage and chill-axing, we decided to meet up with some of my "temporary" roomates friends at Papdeaux's which is another amazing upscale restaurant chain here in the south! I had a sample platter of everything seafood you can eat fried-up in one ridiculous caloric intake that will come back to haunt me later but was rather tasty overall! As soon as dinner was done, Jess and I separated from the others and she took me on a tour of the Sandia Mountains where they have a Tramway that takes you thousands of feet up to the top of the mountains where they have restaurants and shops and amazing views of the city! It was here that I decided to "FLASH" Albuquerque and show them what the Mack is all about! Funny picture in my Facebook pics section if anyone is interested! Like I say in the comments though, I could "Professionally" cut glass for about a half hour afterwards, but it was well worth it! We did the trip up while the sun was setting which was amazing and it was about 20 degrees cooler at the top! I actually saw my first snow since the day I left Redmond, WA! It was beautiful! Don't get me wrong I love the snow but not when it occurs in a state like WA where no one knows how to handle it or drive in it! The simple fact that I would hear that it snowed again on the first day of April about a week and a half after this postings activities in WA makes me oh-so appreciative that I left when I did! Despite the recent storms in Texas which you will hear about in later posts, it has been ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS and G.L.A.M.O.R.O.U.S. down here!
Well after a weekend of amazing times, and meeting local brothers it was off to Roswell to see some UFO's and the Carlsbad Caverns to dwell in some caves and knock a few more activities off my Bucket List!!! Big Props and Much Professional Luv to my Brother Jess and Roomate Stacey for their kindness and hospitality! I came away LOVING New Mexico and will definitely consider it in all future Nationwide job searches!!! There will DEFINITELY be a Return Of The Mack!!! ; )
I apologize for it being quite awhile since my last post! This has been due in large part to major computer malfunctions, storms, Wi-Fi in hotels that should have worked but were not working and then the fact that some days I did not have time to rest and couldn't find a place to sit down and write! Ok, excuses, excuses, what can I say!? But that's what happened! Anyways...
After rolling into Albuquerque, I was able to connect with fellow Brother Jessica Mc Queston who is finishing up her studies at the University of New Mexico. We met up at the University where I toured around a bit by myself and got to see some of the main campus areas! Beautiful place, very large and very spread out but the Architecture was cool and the Student Union Building or S.U.B. was really nice and high tech as well! This was where I first got to taste MAGNIFICENTNESS that is SONIC!!! I've always seen commercials for this food chain in the Northwest but couldn't ever find any of them around until I was told that recently they have opened a few down in Southern Washington state! The drinks are amazing, the food is pretty good and might I say a much needed and welcomed change from the likes of McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King, etc!!! ;)
After chowing on some good grub, we set off for Old Town, Albuquerque, where there were a ton of little shops in buildings from yester-year! We shopped around and Jess told me stories about t area including ghosts, etc and had a blast! After that we headed back to her and her roomate, Stacey's place in a suburb outside of Albuquerque called Rancho Rio, I believe!
From there it was on to some dinner and drinks with several members of the UNM Chapter of AKPSI before heading out on the town in some professional "duds" to do Albquerque right! My tour guides/beautiful ladies showed me the town, taking me to one club with a beautiful open upstairs where we sampled some fine liquer. The next evening there apparently was to be a Playboy Playmate's birthday there! Next we walked along a strip of local establishments and shops giving me a taste of the area before heading into downtown, downtown and the club scene!
We hit up several clubs there. One, Maloney's reminded me of that old bar from "CHEERS" but this was more of a HIGH CLASS sports bar kind of establishment! Then we hit Club "RAW" where the ladies escorting me for the evening, knew the bartender there! We pretty much danced the night away before hitting a late night food joint for some grease and then came home and relaxed and stayed up way too late talking about life and all things Albuquerque and AKPSI!
After this particular evening, we were all a little exhausted so we went to a fantastic authentic Mexican restaurant where I had a "Christmas Tree" burrito with all of the fixings! I had never heard of ordering this particular plate as a "Christmas Tree" but trusted my new friends and their judgement! In the end, they were right it was amazing! This type of meal basically meant the combination of red and green chile on your burrito and though it can often times be quite hot, this was just right and I still salivate thinking about that meal, today!!!
After some more severe nappage and chill-axing, we decided to meet up with some of my "temporary" roomates friends at Papdeaux's which is another amazing upscale restaurant chain here in the south! I had a sample platter of everything seafood you can eat fried-up in one ridiculous caloric intake that will come back to haunt me later but was rather tasty overall! As soon as dinner was done, Jess and I separated from the others and she took me on a tour of the Sandia Mountains where they have a Tramway that takes you thousands of feet up to the top of the mountains where they have restaurants and shops and amazing views of the city! It was here that I decided to "FLASH" Albuquerque and show them what the Mack is all about! Funny picture in my Facebook pics section if anyone is interested! Like I say in the comments though, I could "Professionally" cut glass for about a half hour afterwards, but it was well worth it! We did the trip up while the sun was setting which was amazing and it was about 20 degrees cooler at the top! I actually saw my first snow since the day I left Redmond, WA! It was beautiful! Don't get me wrong I love the snow but not when it occurs in a state like WA where no one knows how to handle it or drive in it! The simple fact that I would hear that it snowed again on the first day of April about a week and a half after this postings activities in WA makes me oh-so appreciative that I left when I did! Despite the recent storms in Texas which you will hear about in later posts, it has been ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS and G.L.A.M.O.R.O.U.S. down here!
Well after a weekend of amazing times, and meeting local brothers it was off to Roswell to see some UFO's and the Carlsbad Caverns to dwell in some caves and knock a few more activities off my Bucket List!!! Big Props and Much Professional Luv to my Brother Jess and Roomate Stacey for their kindness and hospitality! I came away LOVING New Mexico and will definitely consider it in all future Nationwide job searches!!! There will DEFINITELY be a Return Of The Mack!!! ; )
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)