I headed out to Tyrol Basin yesterday with James, Mark, Gabe, and Brad. Amazingly, they actually had decent snow after all of last week's rain. Here's a How To guide of what not to do:

Step 1: Jump onto the rail.

Step 2: Don't fall

Another reason why Americans do not need to leave the comforts of home for strange, foreign lands: San Diego Zoo offers a safari-like experience. You'll see some of the same animals, but I doubt you'll hear Swahili, eat indigenous African food, or experience the severe poverty. I consider these cultural items to be as important as the wildlife, but maybe I'm in the minority...

http://www.sandiegozoo.org/wap/index.html

On the bright side, a trip to Cali will be significantly less than Africa.

What it used to be

After a 10 month hiatus, I returned to the studio on Tuesday. Nothing has changed since I've been gone, except for my skills. Liz helped me to save two pieces from turning into ruined bowls.

Anticipating change

Cold play

From Outside.com

On Saturday I went out to Lapham Peak for a bit of cross-country skiing. The last time I xc skied was more than 10 years ago, but I picked up the rhythm after a couple of miles. Wheel & Sprocket has a shack by the trails where we rented skis for $20. It felt great to get outside & actually enjoy the cold tundra.

I learned today that my mixer was one of my parents' wedding gifts. 32 years later my parents are divorced, but the mixer still mixes!

After a bit of post-holiday lounging, I've posted a few pics from Tanzania.

From Milwaukee to Phoenix

I rode 1759.2 miles in 2008; almost the distance from Milwaukee to Phoenix. The odometer still has the miles from 2007 (1730mi).

I just got back from Tanzania & I'm giddy. I sat down at my computer to check my neglected email accounts, and I just paused to take it all in. I couldn't stop smiling at the thought of reliable power, hot water, non-dirt floors, soap, and a comfortable bed.

Once again, I'm truely happy that I have a renewed sense of satisfaction & understanding for the posh lives we live as westerners. I don't want this feeling to go away, but it naturally will fade as I'm back home & I start to take these things for granted. That just means that I'll need to do another trip next year to renew my understanding & appreciation.

Even though it's -6F outside, I'm happy to be home for the holidays.