The Floating Lanterns of Thailand

 

 

Thailand Temples

 

 

 

 

Alaska 2010

"Misty Fjords", Alaska, 2010

"The Island", Alaska, 2010

Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina Monastery, Arequipa, Peru - September, 2009

Hello, Friend.

Returning to Arequipa from Colca Canyon, Peru - September 2009

Children of Peru

During the few weeks leading up to my trip, I spent some time viewing other blogs and photo pages involving Peru.  That’s when I came across a blog that suggested bringing toys for the local Peruvian children. So with only a few hours before my departure, I was forcing packages of hot wheels, toy dinosaurs, jump ropes, and etch-a-sketches into my backpack.  Below is a photo of a toy recipient…

Cusco, Peru - September, 2009

Jesus Blanco

Jesus Blanco - Cusco, Peru - September, 2009

Peruvian Bliss (I like food!)

Tequeños - Cusco, Peru - September, 2009

Inca Trail – The Porters

The Inca Trail is a magical experience.  In four days we climbed 27 miles of mountain. Without the porters, we could not have completed this trek.  They carried a seemingly endless amount of food, tents, propane, and many other items.  Plus, they completed each leg of the trail in a fraction of the time it took the rest of us.

Imagine a man standing only 5’3″ before he puts on his pack (the term used for a tarp full of random equipment).  He is still only 5’3″, but now walks at a staggering height of over 9′. The porters are an incredible people.

All are of Andean decent and most only speak the local Quechua language (only some speak Spanish, too).  They leave their farms in the areas surrounding Cusco and head to the mountain for the peak trekking season.  Day in and day out, usually with no rest, the porters climb run up and down the Inca trail.  They are always extremely humble and quick to show you their smile.  I am proud to share some of their photos here.

Music: The energy of the Inca Trail and the energy of our porters can best be captured by Alborada’s song “Siwar Dance.” Enjoy!

Leon a.k.a. "Lion"

Teofilo

Peru 2009

Regina (my co-worker and friend) and I returned from our 14-day trip to Peru last night. It included stops in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, plus the 4-day Inca Trail.  Over the next few weeks I will be posting quite a bit.  I’ll include photos from the trip and some Peruvian music.

Music: Check out Alborada’s White Buffalo (you may want to jump to :52 seconds to skip the silent theatrical drama).

Plaza de Armas, Cusco, Peru - September, 2009

“Trifecta”

Santa Anita Race Track, Arcadia, CA, March 2009

“Race 4, $2 Exacta Box, 2,5,7.”  

Translation: “I have no clue what I’m doing but I will continue saying random numbers coupled with words like “trifecta” and “exacta,” all while relinquishing my cash in the hope that by screaming at the small-statured man and his horse, it will somehow make me feel alive.”

…And boy did I feel alive yesterday.  Sure I won one, yes one, of my multiple bets and it netted a whopping $6.00 profit, but really, it’s all about the experience.  And although it’s safe to say that I won’t be revisting the track anytime soon, I like the idea of being able to say that I’ve seen a horse race in person. 

MUSIC RECOMMENDATION: In keeping with the theme, I give you a “Trifecta Recommendation” …and they’re all winners.  

For a pensive track with a nice acoustic guitar, check out Nico Stai – “Maybe Maybe.”  

For a crank you up and never let you drop track, check out The Toxic Avenger – “Poker Face (Lies In Disguise Remix).”

Finally, for a poppy country song, check out Gloriana – “Wild At Heart.”

Laguna Beach

My dad and I spent Saturday afternoon in Laguna Beach.  We grabbed our cameras and aimed at finding some tide pools with plenty of critters.  Once we found our spot (off Cliff Dr., where I completed my final dive for my open water certification) we began snapping away. 

For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of hearing some of his stories, I should let you know that my dad used to own an aquarium shop in Tennessee (yes, I recognize the oxymoron).  Plus, he spent some time making necklaces from Olivella biplicata shells in San Diego.   So needless to say, he knows his way around a good tide pool.  

Below is my favorite image that my dad captured during the outing.  I took the liberty of naming it.  And if you’re curious about the title, just ask him to explain his “Black Hole Theory.”   

Black Hole Theory

Laguna Beach, CA

 Meanwhile, I spent the afternoon making new friends.  You’ll notice that the seagull requested that I also get one of his “good side” [jeez, only in Orange County would you find a seagull with an ego].  Luckily the Sea Lion was a little more camera friendly.

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach

Nefarious Nocturnal Neighbor

2.8.2009, 2100 Hours

It was a [relatively] frigid evening in Huntington Beach, CA.  My roommate Brian and I were zoning out in front of some questionably arranged Grammy performances when it happened…

The creature crept across the drab concrete wall and basked in the glow of the motion-triggered light.  I had seen this particular opossum before, but never had it paused midway through its cinderblock journey, as it did then.  This time it gave me the opportunity to flip out appreciate him.  I immediately notified Brian of the visitor.  Brian’s reaction was frankly nothing I could have anticipated.  As I jumped up and ran for a closer look, Brian wrapped his arms around himself, claiming the animal gave him “the chills.”  My laughter grew as I ran for my camera.  But before I could flip the deadbolt on the front door, I heard the serious tone in his voice.  ”Don’t you walk out that door,” Brian threatened. “I will lock it behind you,” he continued,  gripping the fireplace shovel in his right hand.  And to be honest, I knew he was serious.

Despite Brian’s warning, I exited the door, braving life and limb for the opportunity to snap a photo of the creature.  Sure there are plenty of photos of opossums littered across the internet, but this one would be different.  So as I got into my photography pose [a cross between the Half Moon yoga position and a karate fighting stance] I prepared myself to meet the challenge head-on.  But just as I prepared to look through the viewfinder, I saw that the opossum was not alone.  There were TWO!  I could barely mask my excitement, but knew that if I stood perfectly still [I learned this trick from the Jurassic Park film] they would not see me.  It actually worked, too…until my flash illuminated the entire neighborhood.

The second opossum tore off in the opposite direction, but his friend, the initial instigator, was more brazen.  Also taking his cue from Jurassic Park [or maybe a Chuck Norris film] the opossum hid motionless behind the low-lying tree branch.  A staring match ensued [SEE BELOW]

I won.

Victoriously I re-entered my home, full-knowing that it is only a matter of time before the opossum(s) return.  And when that day comes, I’ll be ready.  Oh, and I’m willing to bet Brian will be ready, too…shovel in-hand.

Tennessee

For 23 of my 24 years, I have enjoyed a Tennessee Christmas.  The air is delightfully crisp, with its mix of freshly baked biscuits, piping-hot grits, and inviting honey-laced ham.  And although this Christmas was different without MiMi being there with us, we continued to celebrate three of my family’s favorite things: Family, Food and the Future.

In addition to the photos below, I’ve included an incredible song that reminds me of MiMi.  You may not recognize his name, but his work has been included in many popular films and movie trailers. Rob Dougan’s song, “Instrumental,” describes my grandmother perfectly…without ever speaking a single word.  (Click here to listen)

Center Hill Lake, TN

Center Hill Lake, TN

Center Hill Lake, TN

“Fireside”

 

Huntington Beach, CA December 2009

“The Past Future”

 

Huntington Beach, November 2008

Music: AFI has finished writing their new album and will begin recording shortly.  Until then, I found a great previously unreleased track called “Carcinogen Crush.”  It is available on iTunes.  Enjoy!

“Unlocked”

 

Huntington Beach, CA, 2008

Music: Pantages Theatre, Row V, Seat 108.  If you have seen Wicked, then you already understand. If you have not seen it, listen to my favorite track here.  

There’s always a bit more to every story.  …Tell Them How I Am Defying Gravity.

“Leader”

 

Abraham Lincoln, The Sixteenth President of the United States, Washington, DC

1. Books: I am really enjoying James L. Swanson’s Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase For Lincoln’s Killer.  Borrow it from your local library, but do it soon.  HBO is putting together a mini-series based on the book.  You can read more about the series here.

2. Music: For an incredible listening experience, check out The Cobalt Season.  Their album, In Search of a Unified Theory is incredible.  Click and listen to Track 3, “Unified Theory.”  

3. More Music: After seeing Matt Nathanson live in San Diego this week, I can say without hesitation that he is the most underrated artist out there today.  His live show combines hysterical commentary (Just listen to his At the Point (Live) album) with poetic lyrics (see: Heartbreak World).  Go out and pick up the Some Mad Hope album, but more importantly, pay the $15 to say you saw him way back when.

4. Things to do: Join me, if you haven’t already, in voting for the 44th President of the United States.    

“Ingenuity”

Halloween, 2008

“Pumpkin carving?  Sure, but I’m going to need a hammer, some cookie cutters…”

After a lengthy delay in posting, I have returned with this…my father carving his pumpkin.  It might be a baby-step into the right direction, but a step nontheless.

“Misery” and “Misery Loves Company”

Photography is like child rearing. [Pause]  Are you still reading this?  Okay, allow me to elaborate:

• You’ve created something beautiful and you want to show it off;
• Even if others don’t think it’s beautiful, they wouldn’t dare say it (they don’t want to hurt your feelings);
• It can make you want to pull out your hair;
• It makes you incredibly happy;
• It matures, often taking on new and exciting styles (save for the “one-shoulder overalls,” “MC Hammer pants” and “snap bracelets”)
• and finally, you can’t say that you love one child more than another–just as it would be difficult to say that you love one photo more than another.  Each one has unique qualities. 

DISCLAIMER: Yes, I do realize that I am single with no children.  That does not, however, preclude me from making gross generalizations and developing hasty conclusions. For the record, I think Mom and Dad would agree with me on these points. 

Having said all of that, I believe the following two photos are my favorite very special.  And in honor of these two photos, I believe it is now time to share my favorite two very special songs.  Please take a moment to enjoy the incredible songs (often played one following the other) Hanging/Escape by Craig Armstrong. <—Click here for a direct link.

“Misery”

“Misery Loves Company”

Washington, DC.

Vacation is a wonderful thing.  I am now back in CA after a great trip to DC.  In fact, it was my first experience in our nation’s capital.  And as expected, DC left me with a lasting impression.  The incredible history, breathtaking monuments, and great friends (Big THANK YOU to Bill and K. Kedis), all contributed to a wonderful trip.  Here are some highlights: 

“Metro”

Smithsonian Metro Stop

The Metro system is incredible.  Why am I so fascinated by successful public transportation?  

“Halo”

Washington Monument

“Respect”

Tomb of the Unknowns, Arlington Cemetery

 ”Senator’s Ride”

Hart Building

 

Yes, it’s true.  The Senators can travel to/from their offices to the Capitol in style.  My friend Kelli (Yes, I’m name-dropping) hooked me up with a ride on these little bundles of electricity.  Want to know what they sound like when they start moving?  Think of the sound you hear when you die during Mario Bros.  I kid you not, it is like a video game.  Maybe those Senators aren’t as uptight as we are led to believe.  

“Tourific”

Kelli posing on the Senator's Ride

This charming young lady gives some of the best tours I have ever been on…and in heels no less!  In my humble opinion, she is one of the best SDSU Ambassadors to ever grace a red polo.  And although she may try to fool you with some Historical Trickery, she truly knows her Capitol Building.  An incredible person and an incredible friend.  Remember that name folks, she’s goin’ places.

“Center of Democracy”

Capitol Building

Not going for an artistic interpretation here.  I had to snap this quickly as I was standing in the exact center of Washington, DC.  ”Some might say that is the ‘Center of Democracy.’”  Kelli’s words, not mine.  

“Jefferson”

Jefferson Memorial

 

Music Recommendation: Katie has yet again picked a winner: Check out Eef Barzelay.

“Cold Shower”

Sometimes a shower is more than just a shower.

MUSIC RECOMMENDATION: Enjoy the song “Lost Without You” by Delta Goodrem. (Credit to Jenn, again.)  It definitely appeals to my softer side. Hopefully it appeals to yours, too. 

Cold Shower by Porter T. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

“Camo”

   

Hyperion Ave at Griffith Park Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

Can you find the imposter(s)?

MUSIC RECOMMENDATION: Take a moment to check out Andrew Bird’s “Plasticities.” Great song with an addicting vibe.  Credit for this one goes to Katie C.  


“Camo” by
Porter T. is licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

“Clear Blue Sky”

 

Long Beach, CA, July 2008

This post is for my good friend, Jenn.  I enjoy teasing her about the seediness of her city, Long Beach; But I truly enjoyed my drive from Huntington Beach, up Pacific Coast Highway, to the beautiful city of Long Beach.  I did, however, see a prostitute and her very excited customer turning a corner down an alley…but to be fair, I think that was still Signal Hill.  

Jenn is currently doing a medical rotation in Connecticut, saving lives and using big words.  I’m hoping that this picture from her “City” will be something she can look at and look forward to returning to.

For those who have not had the chance to visit Long Beach, there is plenty to see: 

• Queen Mary
• Aquarium of the Pacific
• Express Boat to Catalina
• …the list goes on.

MUSIC RECOMMENDATION: I have shared this band with many of my friends already, but since it is one of Jenn’s favorite bands (and she introduced me to them) I think it is well worth the recommendation.  Check out Thriving Ivory.  Some of my favorites are “Hey Lady,” “Twilight,” and “Day of Rain.” I usually pride myself on finding new bands that will make it big, but Jenn was all over this one.  The lead singer’s voice will grow on you as you listen to it more.


“Clear Blue Sky” by
Porter T. is licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

“Broken Windows Theory”

 

Long Beach, CA, July 2008

“Broken Windows Theory” by
Porter T. is licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

“Bee Still”

 

Caspers Wilderness Park, San Juan Capistrano, CA

 I have to apologize for the title of this photo; Apparently I am becoming more and more like my father.  It starts with a pun, but it is only a matter of time before I sing my own incorrect lyrics to popular songs and harmonize with the chorus. Hopefully I’ll still be waterskiing when I’m 56 like him, too.  But seriously, it’s a great title, right?

Speaking of great fathers… Congratulations to my cousin Patrick and Tira!  We have a new member of the Porter family, Edgar Adwell Porter II.  Welcome, Little Eddie!!  Fingers crossed the “Porter Nose” gene continues in the blood line.


“Bee Still” by
Porter T. is licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

“A Sign”

Caspers Wilderness Park, San Juan Capistrano, CA July, 2008

We’ve all heard variations of the saying, “Life is a Journey, Not a Destination.”  

I spent yesterday afternoon enjoying a hike through San Juan Capistrano’s mountains with a good friend.  As we approached this out-of-place sign, I thought about the journey and, more specifically, the signs that may advise us to go/not go in a certain direction. Whether we choose to adhere to them or not, I find they are everywhere.

MUSIC RECOMMENDATION: Already being a fan of Matt Nathanson’s “Car Crash,” I was thrilled when my friend introduced to some of his other work.  For an incredibly moving song, check out “Wedding Dress.”  Follow that with “Gone” and “Come On Get Higher.”  These songs are off his album “Some Made Hope,” which might be the best purchase you could make this summer.


“A Sign” by
Porter T. is licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

“Cutting Board”

 

Huntington Beach Pier, Huntington Beach, CA

MUSIC RECOMMENDATION: Many of the photos on this site will be from Huntington Beach, which leads me to the song “This Town” by O.A.R

So as O.A.R. say, “stand up on your feet, put your worry down” and enjoy the music.

“Cutting Board” by
Porter T. is licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

“The Tower”

 

Huntington Beach, CA

“The Tower” by
Porter T. is licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

“Overhead Lighting”

 

Huntington Beach Pier, July 4, 2008

“Overhead Lighting” by
Porter T. is licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.