Tis the season for snow and traveling. The holiday celebrations are only a few days away and I am getting ready to embark on the fun adventure that is holiday airplane travel. The best part about this adventure is that it is snowing. It has been snowing all weekend long and it has continued to snow today. More snow is on the way, which is great for Missoula, as we don't really get all that much snow in the valley (Missoula is known as the Banana Belt of Montana).
I am head back to the holy land of the intermountain west to visit family and to ski. Oh to ski in the beautiful sugar snow of the Utah Mountains again.
There is however one thing I am not looking forward to, but am trying to keep a positive attitude about: Airplane travel during the holidays. Usually I don't mind flying, but since I have moved to Montana, flying is a bit different. The planes are way smaller, which means no real overhead storage space = everything pretty much has to be checked = expensive.
It is all about the journey and the destination. Have a great holiday season and I promise to post pictures soon!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Thursday, November 13, 2008
My Morning Run: Now an evening run
It is offical, it gets dark in the Big Sky at 5:00 p.m. Crazy. This means one of two things: you run in the dark in the morning or you run in the dark in the evening. I opted for the latter. Fortunatley I have a running partner who motivates me and vice versus - when we both guilty each other in to going.
It is strange running here though, because in Reno I never felt in danger or scared, but here I do, especially at night. Why you ask, while it is because there are these things called bears and deer. In the local park there have been bear sightings, black all be it, but bear none the less. Bears are big, fast moving when pissed, and can hurt you. Luckily, it is almost time for them to go to sleep for a few months.
Deer on the other hand are still around. Deer are not the brightest animals as demonstrated by the start-stop motion, fake out the drive routine that usually ends up with the poor animal dead on the side of the road. Deer do the same thing when spooked by runners on the trail. They don't really know which way to run. Sometimes they will run toward you, to the side of you, or away from you. Either way they are big and have sharp hooves that can hurt you.
With that I have decided to do one of two things: Join a gym or go running on my lunch hour. I a thinking that the gym will come later in the season when it get to cold to run outside. For now I think I will take my chances with the deer and the bears.
It is strange running here though, because in Reno I never felt in danger or scared, but here I do, especially at night. Why you ask, while it is because there are these things called bears and deer. In the local park there have been bear sightings, black all be it, but bear none the less. Bears are big, fast moving when pissed, and can hurt you. Luckily, it is almost time for them to go to sleep for a few months.
Deer on the other hand are still around. Deer are not the brightest animals as demonstrated by the start-stop motion, fake out the drive routine that usually ends up with the poor animal dead on the side of the road. Deer do the same thing when spooked by runners on the trail. They don't really know which way to run. Sometimes they will run toward you, to the side of you, or away from you. Either way they are big and have sharp hooves that can hurt you.
With that I have decided to do one of two things: Join a gym or go running on my lunch hour. I a thinking that the gym will come later in the season when it get to cold to run outside. For now I think I will take my chances with the deer and the bears.
How Funny
Oh man, life is so funny. Have you ever gone to work and just removed your self from all the drama and politics and just observed your co-workers? It is one of my favorite things to do. People, especially in the office, are funny. We all do some seriously silly shit.
One example: If you had walked in to the office around 4:00 p.m. today you would have seen four, count them four, planners all gathered around a building permit, not speaking, and all looking at one another very confused. Then you would have seen a sudden eruption of chatter as we all once again tried to talk our way out of this permit predicament.
You might ask, "What was all the confusion over?" It was over how to calculate parking or better yet how to interpret the language that is the county code. What fun.
Yes, yes, I know this may not be funny to all, but hey when you work in my field, in MY office, one has to find humor in the littlest things other wise you will go crazy.
Now I know why there are two hit series of the same show, one British and one American, can you guess which show? The Office. No wonder it has been so successful, so many people can relate. Cheers and don't forget to observe the office wildlife sometime, it will be sure to entertain, astound, and perhaps educate you.
One example: If you had walked in to the office around 4:00 p.m. today you would have seen four, count them four, planners all gathered around a building permit, not speaking, and all looking at one another very confused. Then you would have seen a sudden eruption of chatter as we all once again tried to talk our way out of this permit predicament.
You might ask, "What was all the confusion over?" It was over how to calculate parking or better yet how to interpret the language that is the county code. What fun.
Yes, yes, I know this may not be funny to all, but hey when you work in my field, in MY office, one has to find humor in the littlest things other wise you will go crazy.
Now I know why there are two hit series of the same show, one British and one American, can you guess which show? The Office. No wonder it has been so successful, so many people can relate. Cheers and don't forget to observe the office wildlife sometime, it will be sure to entertain, astound, and perhaps educate you.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Real Life - Adjustments or Things I have learned while in Montana
Yes it has been a while since I've posted, largely in part due to the fact that I have to occasionally poach internet and that I can't blog while at work (looks bad when you are still trying to impress the new bosses.)
I am still in Big Sky and it is a mighty beautiful place to be, but it does have some funny quirks about it.
The People:
What I have learned thus far, you are either native Montanan or your from somewhere else and never will be. Sounds a whole lot like Nevada and Alaska. Personally it doesn't matter to me where you are from as long as you share some of the same values or at least are sensitive to the local way of living. But here is the kicker, never ever ever admit or mention that you are from or try to defend California. It is according to so many people here, the worst thing possible. Understandable to some extent, but at the same time everyone comes from somewhere and the honest truth is, they bring money to the local economic. More on this later. A few things on the positive side, the people are very friendly, they are very independent, and very into hunting and sharing of the kill. Hurray for elk meat!
The landscape:
No complaints here. It is an amazing place. There are plenty of lakes, rivers, mountains, and valleys to satisfy even the pickiest of people. By coming back to a place that is surrounded by mountains on all sides, I think I finally figured out what I was missing so bad in the Biggest Little City, valley living. True valley living. I have grown up in valleys my whole life and I love the physical imposition and reminder that it provides. It is very humbling to wake up each morning and look up at some very large and close mountains. Not quite as dramatic as Logan or Ogden, but it does the job.
My career choice:
Rather than term this "the job" I think it is better to examine it from the career perspective. Or perhaps I should just call it "the real world." Okay, we are all warned at some point in our lives about what it will be like when we enter the real world. It will be nothing like home, it will definitely not be like college and we are never truly prepared for it. I agree but beg to differ on this by just one aspect: GRADUATE SCHOOL. The real world is very much like graduate school: politics, people from a wide range of disciplines, deadlines, self motivation, hoops to jump through, new things to learn. I have to say that graduate school is one of the best preparation tools for "the real world." Granted I have yet to finish my thesis (yes I see the irony of deadlines, self motivation, etc) but I am more motivated to do it now than ever. Perspective is all I can say.
Don't get me wrong, I like it out here in the real world, but there are some things can could be improved in the career area of the real world. First negativity. When did it become a rule that you have to be bitter and negative all the time in the work place? I am constantly surrounded by it, but some how I am managing to stay positive. Perhaps it is because I was selective in what I wanted to do with my life, for my career. Or it is the fact that I am passionate about what I do, yes a person can be passionate about planning. Either way I refuse to let the burnt out folks get me down. I am not going to tuck tail just yet.
Secondly, when did/do adults revert back to being six year olds? This comment is a result of all the nit picky crap that goes on in the office. Others may know this as office politics, but seriously, why do people hold grudges over the dumbest things? I understand that in a place like Missoula where good paying jobs are few and far between, and that when there are few opportunities to advance, people try to make themselves look as good as possible, but it is completely irresponsible and very unprofessional for one employee to blame another for mistakes they didn't make or have control over or for that matter to tattle on one another. Come on folks we are all adults. If you have something to say say it and make sure you do it in a way that is correct.
I am still in Big Sky and it is a mighty beautiful place to be, but it does have some funny quirks about it.
The People:
What I have learned thus far, you are either native Montanan or your from somewhere else and never will be. Sounds a whole lot like Nevada and Alaska. Personally it doesn't matter to me where you are from as long as you share some of the same values or at least are sensitive to the local way of living. But here is the kicker, never ever ever admit or mention that you are from or try to defend California. It is according to so many people here, the worst thing possible. Understandable to some extent, but at the same time everyone comes from somewhere and the honest truth is, they bring money to the local economic. More on this later. A few things on the positive side, the people are very friendly, they are very independent, and very into hunting and sharing of the kill. Hurray for elk meat!
The landscape:
No complaints here. It is an amazing place. There are plenty of lakes, rivers, mountains, and valleys to satisfy even the pickiest of people. By coming back to a place that is surrounded by mountains on all sides, I think I finally figured out what I was missing so bad in the Biggest Little City, valley living. True valley living. I have grown up in valleys my whole life and I love the physical imposition and reminder that it provides. It is very humbling to wake up each morning and look up at some very large and close mountains. Not quite as dramatic as Logan or Ogden, but it does the job.
My career choice:
Rather than term this "the job" I think it is better to examine it from the career perspective. Or perhaps I should just call it "the real world." Okay, we are all warned at some point in our lives about what it will be like when we enter the real world. It will be nothing like home, it will definitely not be like college and we are never truly prepared for it. I agree but beg to differ on this by just one aspect: GRADUATE SCHOOL. The real world is very much like graduate school: politics, people from a wide range of disciplines, deadlines, self motivation, hoops to jump through, new things to learn. I have to say that graduate school is one of the best preparation tools for "the real world." Granted I have yet to finish my thesis (yes I see the irony of deadlines, self motivation, etc) but I am more motivated to do it now than ever. Perspective is all I can say.
Don't get me wrong, I like it out here in the real world, but there are some things can could be improved in the career area of the real world. First negativity. When did it become a rule that you have to be bitter and negative all the time in the work place? I am constantly surrounded by it, but some how I am managing to stay positive. Perhaps it is because I was selective in what I wanted to do with my life, for my career. Or it is the fact that I am passionate about what I do, yes a person can be passionate about planning. Either way I refuse to let the burnt out folks get me down. I am not going to tuck tail just yet.
Secondly, when did/do adults revert back to being six year olds? This comment is a result of all the nit picky crap that goes on in the office. Others may know this as office politics, but seriously, why do people hold grudges over the dumbest things? I understand that in a place like Missoula where good paying jobs are few and far between, and that when there are few opportunities to advance, people try to make themselves look as good as possible, but it is completely irresponsible and very unprofessional for one employee to blame another for mistakes they didn't make or have control over or for that matter to tattle on one another. Come on folks we are all adults. If you have something to say say it and make sure you do it in a way that is correct.
On that line of thought the other big lesson that I have learned....
Boundaries:All I can say is know your own, know the political dance and moves boundaries, and be mindful of what and to whom you say it (see the above digest on six year olds in the office.) I am learning that it is by far better to keep you personal life, political views, general comments, and anything else that might jostle the pecking order to your self.
One last thought on what I have learned:
Staying positive is the best thing you can do when entering a new job or space. Remember to be conscious of your actions and reactions. Take care of your body while working an office job as it is completely possible to cause serious damage to your self by sitting on your arse and slouching everyday of the week.
Oh and have a few good friends on speed dial that you can call and say, "Want to get a beer after work?" This will be essential to maintaining your sanity.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
It Happened One Day
Amazing things are happening here in Big Sky: Cold temperatures and snow. Yep you read that right, snow. This morning's commute to work revealed an fantastic view, the top of Lolo Peak covered in the first snow. What a great sight to complement the chilly bite in the air that announced Fall's arrival.
Most of the folks that I work with are complaining and bemoaning the fact that summer has left the valley and that Fall, and soon Winter, will be settling in for a while. But to me I am overjoyed with this fact as Fall and Winter are two of my favorite seasons. I especially love the transitions between them. The best part about this time of year is the fact that you get to pull all of your warm woolly sweaters out of the storage bins and romp around in them (until mid afternoon, then it is to warm to wear wool).
I cannot wait till the winter snows reach the valley floor! Happy Fall everyone!
Most of the folks that I work with are complaining and bemoaning the fact that summer has left the valley and that Fall, and soon Winter, will be settling in for a while. But to me I am overjoyed with this fact as Fall and Winter are two of my favorite seasons. I especially love the transitions between them. The best part about this time of year is the fact that you get to pull all of your warm woolly sweaters out of the storage bins and romp around in them (until mid afternoon, then it is to warm to wear wool).
I cannot wait till the winter snows reach the valley floor! Happy Fall everyone!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
New Geographic Location
It's true I am in a new geographic location: Big Sky Country. Don't know where that is? Well the Big Sky is also known as Montana. Yep I am back in the Rocky Mountain West and it feels good to be home.
Employment brought me to my new home (at least for the next year, have to see if it all works out). I will be working for the county and city of Missoula doing what I went to school to learn all about: planning. I am working up close and personal with John Q Public and it is great. Different questions all day long, new things to learn (like how little regulation there is in this town), and plenty of new watering holes to quench the after work thirst!
But Montana isn't the only new geographic location that I have traveled to this summer. I finally made it off the mainland and to the islands: Kauai, Hawaii. What an amazing place! Great sun, great landscape, canyons, waterfalls, beaches, mountains, oh my! Oh and really good local beer and seafood. I can't wait to return to this amazing place. Where else can you pretty much be homeless and live off the land comfortably? (No the answer isn't Alaska--remember it gets cold there)
Over the next couple of days or weeks I should be updating with thoughts and reactions to the transition from hot Reno to cool Montana.
Welcome Back!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Cultural Geography via the T.V.
Recently I was turned on to a website that allows you to stream television shows: Hulu. Pretty good site for a quick t.v. fix. I like that they have many PBS series to watch. I just watched the Nova series on the ancient art of Tibet and the ancient kingdom of the Maya. Amazing.
Having been accused of being a t.v. baby and a cultural geographer, I must stick up for myself and say, that I was learning cultural geography via the boob tube. These two episodes explore one of the cultural geography questions of "what's it's like" which is essential to understanding any physical and culture oriented place on the planet.
The more I watch television (I probably shouldn't be fessing up to this) the more that I am finding so much of what people understand about their own surroundings and other places comes from what is represented/depicted by television shows. I am not talking about just the nice nature shows like Nova or National Geographic or even Frontline, but main stream network and now cable programming. I am not saying this is bad or good, but that it removes much of the imagination and wonder of exploring a new place.
Here comes the circular argument: People may not know about particular places with out television and thus would never want to go there with out seeing it. But I say what happened to looking over the map and doing a bit of old fashion research? Like reading travel journals of early explorers or residents? What about talking to people from or who have traveled these places?
Perhaps now that gas prices are so high, including jet fuel, that gaining a sense of wonder via the television will have to suffice for global exploration for now. Wait, I forgot books!
What better way to spend the summer than sitting outside reading a great travel/geographic book, working on your tan and drinking a cold beer?
Here are some titles that I am reading this summer (yes I know I should be doing my thesis):
The Mapmakers Wife - Robert Whitaker
In Search of Captain Zero - Allan C. Weisbecker
Leading Out: Mountaineering Stories of Adventurous Women - Edited by Rachel Da Silva
Why in the World: Adventures in Geography - George J. Demko, Jerome Agel, and Eugene Boe
I, Rigoberta Menchu: An Indian Woman In Guatemala - Translated by Ann Wright
There are a few good old thesis titles too, but I won't bore you with that.
Happy Reading!
Having been accused of being a t.v. baby and a cultural geographer, I must stick up for myself and say, that I was learning cultural geography via the boob tube. These two episodes explore one of the cultural geography questions of "what's it's like" which is essential to understanding any physical and culture oriented place on the planet.
The more I watch television (I probably shouldn't be fessing up to this) the more that I am finding so much of what people understand about their own surroundings and other places comes from what is represented/depicted by television shows. I am not talking about just the nice nature shows like Nova or National Geographic or even Frontline, but main stream network and now cable programming. I am not saying this is bad or good, but that it removes much of the imagination and wonder of exploring a new place.
Here comes the circular argument: People may not know about particular places with out television and thus would never want to go there with out seeing it. But I say what happened to looking over the map and doing a bit of old fashion research? Like reading travel journals of early explorers or residents? What about talking to people from or who have traveled these places?
Perhaps now that gas prices are so high, including jet fuel, that gaining a sense of wonder via the television will have to suffice for global exploration for now. Wait, I forgot books!
What better way to spend the summer than sitting outside reading a great travel/geographic book, working on your tan and drinking a cold beer?
Here are some titles that I am reading this summer (yes I know I should be doing my thesis):
The Mapmakers Wife - Robert Whitaker
In Search of Captain Zero - Allan C. Weisbecker
Leading Out: Mountaineering Stories of Adventurous Women - Edited by Rachel Da Silva
Why in the World: Adventures in Geography - George J. Demko, Jerome Agel, and Eugene Boe
I, Rigoberta Menchu: An Indian Woman In Guatemala - Translated by Ann Wright
There are a few good old thesis titles too, but I won't bore you with that.
Happy Reading!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Fire, Fire On The Mountain
Well folks, as the Grateful Dead sang it, there is fire on the mountain. California is burning and Reno is full of smoke. One amazing thing is that the sunsets have been awesome! The sun turns this brilliant red due to particle scattering (Samy would be so proud.)
These fires have got me thinking about where people live and what would happen if people did not live in these places. I know that most of the fire fighting efforts go into protecting houses and structures, and the most of the time the forest is allowed to burn, but man this is unreal.
In particular, the fires in the Sacramento--I-80 area. The location of these fires and the timing reminds me of a description in George Stewart's book Earth Abides. The book was written in 1949 as a post-apocalyptic sci-fi novel set in California. The main character Ish describes what he sees, haze on the horizon, from the annual burn of the Sierra. Read the book it will make more sense. It is just a great description of the natural processes that take place when humans aren't around.
Ironically though today, NPR ran a story about the Tahoe fire last year (Angora Fire) and the people who are rebuilding their homes. Most of those people are unwilling to implement the new building codes that will make their homes more fire resistant. They say that it is too costly. Hmm having your house burn to the ground and having to rebuild again, or just spend the cash up front to protect your home . . . .
All I know is that it isn't much fun having to exercise indoors due to poor air quality. Hmff, guess this means I will just have to go to the gym.
These fires have got me thinking about where people live and what would happen if people did not live in these places. I know that most of the fire fighting efforts go into protecting houses and structures, and the most of the time the forest is allowed to burn, but man this is unreal.
In particular, the fires in the Sacramento--I-80 area. The location of these fires and the timing reminds me of a description in George Stewart's book Earth Abides. The book was written in 1949 as a post-apocalyptic sci-fi novel set in California. The main character Ish describes what he sees, haze on the horizon, from the annual burn of the Sierra. Read the book it will make more sense. It is just a great description of the natural processes that take place when humans aren't around.
Ironically though today, NPR ran a story about the Tahoe fire last year (Angora Fire) and the people who are rebuilding their homes. Most of those people are unwilling to implement the new building codes that will make their homes more fire resistant. They say that it is too costly. Hmm having your house burn to the ground and having to rebuild again, or just spend the cash up front to protect your home . . . .
All I know is that it isn't much fun having to exercise indoors due to poor air quality. Hmff, guess this means I will just have to go to the gym.
Monday, June 16, 2008
So Hot--Summer is here
I'm melting...and it's not even July yet. Today summer officially left its hot, sticky, smelly mark all over me and town. For the last two weeks the weather here could not decide if it wanted to prolong spring or move straight into summer. Well it finally made up its mind today. It was balmy 94 degrees today. The upside, no humidity.
The point of the blog, to complain about the weather. For those of you who have to listen to me complain about this place, what is that I always say: "I don't like the weather here: Winter is to mild; Summer is to hot; and there is like 300 days of sunshine." Yeah I know rough, right? Well some of us like heavy snowy winters and a touch cooler summers.
The temporary solution for these hot summer days: Cold beer or a margarita on the rocks!
The point of the blog, to complain about the weather. For those of you who have to listen to me complain about this place, what is that I always say: "I don't like the weather here: Winter is to mild; Summer is to hot; and there is like 300 days of sunshine." Yeah I know rough, right? Well some of us like heavy snowy winters and a touch cooler summers.
The temporary solution for these hot summer days: Cold beer or a margarita on the rocks!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
My Morning Run - Or Lack There Of
As you can see from the posts, or lack of posts about running, I have sort of taken a break from the whole running thing--at least in the mornings. Instead I have switched over to an evening runner. This is due to the fact that I now have a running partner, Samy. Yep finally got him some good shoes and he is running right along.
But for old times sake I went for a run the other morning and it was glorious. Nice cool weather, not a lot of people, and lots of birds. Good stuff.
To add to the fun, on the mornings that I don't wake up earlier enough to run, I ride my slick new (White Lightning) bike to work and school. I think that makes up for the lack of morning runs.
But for old times sake I went for a run the other morning and it was glorious. Nice cool weather, not a lot of people, and lots of birds. Good stuff.
To add to the fun, on the mornings that I don't wake up earlier enough to run, I ride my slick new (White Lightning) bike to work and school. I think that makes up for the lack of morning runs.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Hiatus
Recently I took a bit of break from school. I needed to clear the head about this whole thesis thing, especially after I got a smack down from my advisor on chapter two. So I headed to Track Town, better known as Eugene, Oregon.
While there I took in the Saturday Market, always a pleasure, and a mountain bike ride. Yes I still occasionally ride and this was the most glorious mud-filled-hell-of-a-climb-first-time in the northwest ride I have ever done. I bitched and moaned all the way up, crashed (over the bars) in the first 200 feet of the downhill and laughed my ass off when riding through the mud holes.
So here are a three action shots of me coming down a section of trail. See if you can describe the expression on my face in picture two (I describe it as oh shit don't fall.)
While there I took in the Saturday Market, always a pleasure, and a mountain bike ride. Yes I still occasionally ride and this was the most glorious mud-filled-hell-of-a-climb-first-time in the northwest ride I have ever done. I bitched and moaned all the way up, crashed (over the bars) in the first 200 feet of the downhill and laughed my ass off when riding through the mud holes.
So here are a three action shots of me coming down a section of trail. See if you can describe the expression on my face in picture two (I describe it as oh shit don't fall.)
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Looking In...
Alright so you can only see my back if you are looking in, but that is because I am sitting at the kitchen table typing out the last sections of chapter two. That's right, chapter two of five in the thesis. It is coming along, but I think my butt is officially shaped like the chair--ouch, er uh, ewww!
Get it? Ewe? Har har har.....
Get it? Ewe? Har har har.....Sunday, March 23, 2008
Looking In....
A quick note: If you were looking in my fish bowl you would see me on the couch actually writing! Yes that is correct, I am actually writing my thesis now. Chapter one is nearing completion (or my view of it; we'll have to see what the committee members say).
I have one week to finish another chapter: PUDs as regional development tools for Reno. Then I have to write up the fun stuff: Winnemucca Ranch: The City and Developer, Public or Not: Citizens and Collaborative Planning, and last Introduction.
Happy Writing!
I have one week to finish another chapter: PUDs as regional development tools for Reno. Then I have to write up the fun stuff: Winnemucca Ranch: The City and Developer, Public or Not: Citizens and Collaborative Planning, and last Introduction.
Happy Writing!
Monday, March 17, 2008
If Only Planning Problems Were This Easy To Get Rid Of
I think I may have found one of the best explanations for why it is planners get taken to task all the time: Planning Problems Are Wicked.Planning problems are not easy to solve, let alone figure out. In Rittel and Webber's article, "Dilemmas in a General Theory of Planning," they outline what makes planning so difficult.
Let me present the list:
1. There is no definitive formulation of a wicked problem.
2. Wicked problems have no stopping rule.
3. Solutions to wicked problems are not true-or-false, but good-or-bad.
4. There is no immediate and no ultimate test of a solution to a wicked problem.
5. Every solution to a wicked problem is a "one-shot operation"; because there is no opportunity to learn by trial-and-error, every attempt counts significantly.
6. Wicked problems do not have an enumerable (or an exhaustively describable) set of potential solutions; nor is there a well-described set of permissible operations that may be incorporated into the plan.
7. Every wicked problem is essentially unique.
8. Every wicked problem can be considered to be a symptom of another problem.
9. The existence of a discrepancy representing a wicked problem can be explained in numerous ways. The choice of explanation determines the nature of the problem's resolution.
10. The planner has no right to be wrong. (If that isn't the truth than I don't know what is).
Considering that planning, to me, is essentially politics, (here is where my credo holds true: Planning: politics without being elected) it makes perfect sense that the problems planners face are wicked. You try hitting a moving target knowing that you only have one shot and that if you miss you will be horribly reprimanded and potentially booed in public (no one likes that).
The whole point of this article I think is to educate those out side of planning that as professionals, planners face a seriously difficult task in carrying out their duties while trying to make communities better. Everyone should read this article the next time they feel like badmouthing planning/planners.
I am feeling their pain now trying to work on my thesis, which is planning oriented. It has taken and is taking an incredible amount of time to gather all the information and to write, because this is a moving/changing target. Frustrating is all I can say.
Moral of the story: We need a Dorthy to click her heels and make this wicked problem melt away.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
A Breath of Fresh Air: Island Air That Is
Finally we are reading something that is new, interesting, and refreshing. We are getting into the sub disciplines of geography--specifically biogeography and GIS. The one reading that really interested me this week was the chapter "The Man Who Knew Islands," from the book: The Song of the Dodo: Island Biogeography in an Age of Extinctions.This chapter is an amazing blend of fieldwork, science, regions, controversy, and challenges. The chapter discusses the story of Alfred Russel Wallace and Charles Darwin and their parallel discovery of evolution through the examination of animals on islands. While the chapter focuses mostly on Wallace's rise and interest in evolution it does raise questions and doubts about Darwin's actions in suppressing Wallace's findings until his own were published.I was particularly interested in reading the rest of the book because of this discussion and challenges to Darwin as the progenitor of evolution.
While we have read many examples of good writing, I must admit that the writing found in Song of the Dodo is amazing. Written like a travel log, historical story with modern commentary works well in dealing with this potentially difficult subject.
More importantly or perhaps why I liked this chapter so much is that it doesn't harp on historical geography or the loss of geography as a science or discipline. Finally a geography writing about their subject that is accessible to all readers, not just hifalutin geographers.
Best read thus far in the semester of article/assigned readings (books excluded).
Thursday, February 28, 2008
My Morning Run: Everybody and their dog
Spring was in the air this morning. Motivating this morning was not hard to do at all with the blue skies and shinning sun. I guess that is why everybody and their dog was out for a walk or a jog. Dogs and people all over this morning--great times!
So nice in fact that one of the many dogs I met this morning decided to go for a little jog with me. He was lagging behind his owner a bit and when I caught up to him, he (the dog) ran with me for a little while until he realized that I wasn't his owner. Made me laugh.
Hope the weather holds and spring makes a permanent apperance.
Happy Running!
So nice in fact that one of the many dogs I met this morning decided to go for a little jog with me. He was lagging behind his owner a bit and when I caught up to him, he (the dog) ran with me for a little while until he realized that I wasn't his owner. Made me laugh.
Hope the weather holds and spring makes a permanent apperance.
Happy Running!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Fishbowl: Sort of....
What exactly do I mean? Well let me explain. This weekend while taking a snowy break at Diamond Peak ($40 for an all day college pass isn't bad when there is 2 feet of powder!) in the upper lodge (looks sort of like a fishbowl,) I over heard the conversation between two 10-12 year olds and one of their dads. Here's how it all went down:
Son: "Dad, what is Oregon's thing? You know like California has CA..."
Dad: "OR, that is Oregon's state abbreviation." Goes back to drinking his beer.
Son's Friend: "Is there a Portland, Oregon?"
Dad: "Yes, Port-land."
Son's Friend: "See I told you. P-o-i-r-t-l-u-n-d."
What did I learn?
A. To not laugh while the people are still in the room.
B. There are serious flaws in the youth's geographic education these days. Not to mention their spelling abilities.
I clearly remember being that same age and know the abbreviations for the states and their capitals. We learned this in the 5th grade and again from the lovely cartoon, Animaniacs:
Here is the video: (note the line and where Wakko places it? Delineation of the East and West?)
And for yet another interesting bit here are the countries of the world:
Who says you can't learn anything from television?
Warner Brothers I think has to be one of the most geographic cartoon networks. Consistently they have presented geography as an element in all of their productions from Bug Bunny to Tiny Toons. Music, culture (remember Bugs and Elmer cross dressing--culture), languages, religion? If I ever become a teacher you can be sure that I will be using this kind of material to make simple and complex points!
Son: "Dad, what is Oregon's thing? You know like California has CA..."
Dad: "OR, that is Oregon's state abbreviation." Goes back to drinking his beer.
Son's Friend: "Is there a Portland, Oregon?"
Dad: "Yes, Port-land."
Son's Friend: "See I told you. P-o-i-r-t-l-u-n-d."
What did I learn?
A. To not laugh while the people are still in the room.
B. There are serious flaws in the youth's geographic education these days. Not to mention their spelling abilities.
I clearly remember being that same age and know the abbreviations for the states and their capitals. We learned this in the 5th grade and again from the lovely cartoon, Animaniacs:
Here is the video: (note the line and where Wakko places it? Delineation of the East and West?)
And for yet another interesting bit here are the countries of the world:
Who says you can't learn anything from television?
Warner Brothers I think has to be one of the most geographic cartoon networks. Consistently they have presented geography as an element in all of their productions from Bug Bunny to Tiny Toons. Music, culture (remember Bugs and Elmer cross dressing--culture), languages, religion? If I ever become a teacher you can be sure that I will be using this kind of material to make simple and complex points!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
My Morning Run-Birds and Knots
This morning was a great day to get up out the of bed and lace up the running shoes. Crisp clean air that smelled like rain greeted me as I walked out the door. Off for a 30 minute run, I opted to head up stream this time. Passing early morning dog walkers and other joggers, I eased into the run, slow going as it was the first time in four days that I had done much of anything.
Knees quietly groaning as they warmed up, but by the time I reached the big tree in the trail they were fine. In part due to the awesome avian distraction: a Brown Creeper or a Northern Flicker, I am not too sure.
Northen Flicker
Part of my enjoyment of early morning running is that there a tons of birds out singing and dancing in the trees. If the foot falls are quite enough, you can catch a glimpse of the numerous and varied birds that live in the area. This bird is the first up close encounter that I have had. It was sitting about head high on a dead tree, motionless, but staring me down. We looked at each other for what felt like a minute but was only seconds before I realized I had to keep moving.
Brown Creeper
I have developed a habit of stopping dead in my tracks when I see birds, especially ones that I can't name. This time, it came back to bite me. That brief pause may be the reason I have a knot in my leg. Not bad, but big enough to be bothersome when trying to cross my legs.
Stretching is key! Happy running!
Knees quietly groaning as they warmed up, but by the time I reached the big tree in the trail they were fine. In part due to the awesome avian distraction: a Brown Creeper or a Northern Flicker, I am not too sure.
Northen FlickerPart of my enjoyment of early morning running is that there a tons of birds out singing and dancing in the trees. If the foot falls are quite enough, you can catch a glimpse of the numerous and varied birds that live in the area. This bird is the first up close encounter that I have had. It was sitting about head high on a dead tree, motionless, but staring me down. We looked at each other for what felt like a minute but was only seconds before I realized I had to keep moving.
Brown CreeperI have developed a habit of stopping dead in my tracks when I see birds, especially ones that I can't name. This time, it came back to bite me. That brief pause may be the reason I have a knot in my leg. Not bad, but big enough to be bothersome when trying to cross my legs.
Stretching is key! Happy running!
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Life Viewed from Inside the Fish Bowl
Let me explain:
In my living room there is a large front window, what I like to call the fish bowl. It is one of those windows that puts its occupants on display for the neighborhood. It is the sort of window that has to be opened to let light in, but also big enough to be cost prohibitive, for a renter to "redress."
This being said it does provide the opportunity for fascinating observations to be made. With this in mind, this section of the blog is going to be devoted to what this fish sees outside her bowl.
Recent sighting:
Yesterday afternoon after arriving home from a brief but excellent bike ride to the grocery store, I came into the living room to turn on the radio when I spied this older woman (think of your G-ma) walking down the street pushing what looked like one of those walkers with a seat. Upon closer examination, all while trying not to look like I was staring out at her, I saw that the walker was in fact a dog stroller.
Hmmm, perhaps her dog is as old as she is. Maybe she just likes taking the dog for a walk. Oh the fun stuff you see when looking out from the inside.
In my living room there is a large front window, what I like to call the fish bowl. It is one of those windows that puts its occupants on display for the neighborhood. It is the sort of window that has to be opened to let light in, but also big enough to be cost prohibitive, for a renter to "redress."
This being said it does provide the opportunity for fascinating observations to be made. With this in mind, this section of the blog is going to be devoted to what this fish sees outside her bowl.
Recent sighting:
Yesterday afternoon after arriving home from a brief but excellent bike ride to the grocery store, I came into the living room to turn on the radio when I spied this older woman (think of your G-ma) walking down the street pushing what looked like one of those walkers with a seat. Upon closer examination, all while trying not to look like I was staring out at her, I saw that the walker was in fact a dog stroller.
Hmmm, perhaps her dog is as old as she is. Maybe she just likes taking the dog for a walk. Oh the fun stuff you see when looking out from the inside.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
My Morning Run: Week 4 = Pain
The saga continues....
Running this week and last has perhaps been one of the toughest, yet most enjoyable things I have done in a long time.
Last Friday started with a 70 min run down to the river and back. A good start for sure, but half way there, the knees began to groan and complain, the hips began to rebel, and my ears began to close in on themselves, due to the incessant talking of another slow runner (did I mention I am again back of the pack?) Then something amazing happened, I hit that endorphin high that puts you in to a perm-a-grin state and everything melts away. It is just you and the foot beats of your pace taking you back up the hill and to the stopping point. Yep 70 minutes of running down.
Wednesday on the other hand was a bit tougher. Only a 50 minute jaunt, but with a speed work out thrown in. Legs of lead is all I can say.
Keep running.
Running this week and last has perhaps been one of the toughest, yet most enjoyable things I have done in a long time.
Last Friday started with a 70 min run down to the river and back. A good start for sure, but half way there, the knees began to groan and complain, the hips began to rebel, and my ears began to close in on themselves, due to the incessant talking of another slow runner (did I mention I am again back of the pack?) Then something amazing happened, I hit that endorphin high that puts you in to a perm-a-grin state and everything melts away. It is just you and the foot beats of your pace taking you back up the hill and to the stopping point. Yep 70 minutes of running down.
Wednesday on the other hand was a bit tougher. Only a 50 minute jaunt, but with a speed work out thrown in. Legs of lead is all I can say.
Keep running.
Themes This Week
After mulling over the readings this week, two themes presented themselves: 1-Get out there and 2-Make geography accessible to everyone.
Specifically these readings are a variety of Peirce Lewis' works that range from regional studies to commentary on notable geographers. Lewis' work hits home for me and actually inspired me to approach the professor that I TA for and suggest that we use one of the Lewis articles as an introduction to geography for 100 level course students (Lewis, Peirce. 1985. Presidential Address: Beyond Description. Annals of the Association of American Geographers. 75(4). 465-478.) It is a brief overview of the variety of professions and works that geographers do, but also a call to students to get out there, explore, read good writing (of which this blog may or may not be) and to then produce good descriptive writing about what they have experienced. Not hard to do right?
Right, now get out there and get to it. The general public, who is largely ignorant of geography, both its breadth and depth, wants to know more about the place that they live and wants to better understand what exactly it is that they are experiencing. As a geographer you, we, can do this.
I should really take my own advice and get back to writing this thing called a thesis.
Specifically these readings are a variety of Peirce Lewis' works that range from regional studies to commentary on notable geographers. Lewis' work hits home for me and actually inspired me to approach the professor that I TA for and suggest that we use one of the Lewis articles as an introduction to geography for 100 level course students (Lewis, Peirce. 1985. Presidential Address: Beyond Description. Annals of the Association of American Geographers. 75(4). 465-478.) It is a brief overview of the variety of professions and works that geographers do, but also a call to students to get out there, explore, read good writing (of which this blog may or may not be) and to then produce good descriptive writing about what they have experienced. Not hard to do right?
Right, now get out there and get to it. The general public, who is largely ignorant of geography, both its breadth and depth, wants to know more about the place that they live and wants to better understand what exactly it is that they are experiencing. As a geographer you, we, can do this.
I should really take my own advice and get back to writing this thing called a thesis.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Geography is everything--or at least everywhere
This is a recent article that I was asked to read for class. It raises interesting questions about the environment and how humans are interacting and changing it. As I read this I noticed two things, Germany and India are doing some amazing things to make their respective places green and sustainable. Germany on the one hand it tackling consumer/consumption issues specifically energy/solar energy. They are combining the forces of science, market demand and controls, business, and regulation to create an arena that fosters alternative energies rather than stifles them. India on the other hand it taking a more Ghandian approach and returning to traditional methods of agriculture, water management, and information sharing.
The common thread of geography in this article is both a physical and cultural connection. Trying to change how humans interact with the environment takes the understanding of the various subfields in science along with the ability to understand how human culture works and then how it can change = Geography.
If you haven't read the article flip through it and see what you will find to inspire you.
The common thread of geography in this article is both a physical and cultural connection. Trying to change how humans interact with the environment takes the understanding of the various subfields in science along with the ability to understand how human culture works and then how it can change = Geography.
If you haven't read the article flip through it and see what you will find to inspire you.
Monday, February 4, 2008
My Morning Run: Marathon Class Begins
Friday morning began as most do for me: laying in bed listening to the fourth alarm going off and me contemplating if I should get up and go run. I finally decided to get up and throw on my smelly running close because this Friday morning was the first group run with the marathon class. 60 whole minutes of sucking wind and trail pounding. What fun!!! No really what fun.
What fun it was, because for the first time (or at least the last few years) I was not the slowest person in the pack. I found four other ladies who suck wind as bad as I do and move just as slow. 30 minutes in to the run as I made my way back down Evans Canyon, it was brought to my attention that there was a coyote running along side us on the opposite hill side. What could be better than a brisk morning run up a local trail and seeing one of the most adaptable creatures on Earth--not a whole lot.
It is moments like this that keep me lacing up my shoes every morning.
What fun it was, because for the first time (or at least the last few years) I was not the slowest person in the pack. I found four other ladies who suck wind as bad as I do and move just as slow. 30 minutes in to the run as I made my way back down Evans Canyon, it was brought to my attention that there was a coyote running along side us on the opposite hill side. What could be better than a brisk morning run up a local trail and seeing one of the most adaptable creatures on Earth--not a whole lot.
It is moments like this that keep me lacing up my shoes every morning.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
The Cultural Physical Interaction
A brief post about the book review Deforesting the Earth: from prehistory to global crisis: an abridgment by Michael Williams, reviewed by Ruth DeFries, University of Maryland College Park in Area 39 (3) 410-411.
As I read this book review it dawned on me that this book review represents a few elements of geography: cultural and physical geography with a dash of historical geography for flavor. Williams book attempts to describe not only the historical condition of global forests (in this case that means mostly a European history), but the cultural or human interaction/use of forests and the consequences of this interaction.
Lets break this down:
Forests = Physical
People/Interaction = Cultural
Historical Context = Historical Geography
Oh and one last point to be made--the whole study is regional in nature: Europe, its regions; the Americas, all of the vast regions there; Asia and Africa. It doesn't get much more regional than this.
But I do have one question: Could historical periods be considered regions in and of themselves?
As I read this book review it dawned on me that this book review represents a few elements of geography: cultural and physical geography with a dash of historical geography for flavor. Williams book attempts to describe not only the historical condition of global forests (in this case that means mostly a European history), but the cultural or human interaction/use of forests and the consequences of this interaction.
Lets break this down:
Forests = Physical
People/Interaction = Cultural
Historical Context = Historical Geography
Oh and one last point to be made--the whole study is regional in nature: Europe, its regions; the Americas, all of the vast regions there; Asia and Africa. It doesn't get much more regional than this.
But I do have one question: Could historical periods be considered regions in and of themselves?
Icon on Icon
Watch out for name bombs and icon shrapnel when reading Peirce F. Lewis' generously descriptive homage to Wilbur "Wolf" Zelinsky. (Lewis, Peirce F. 2006. Wilbur As Icon. The Geographical Review. 96 (2). viii-xii.) For me this article was heavy with icons and words that I spent time looking up (see the list below). What Lewis does in the article is remove the mystic from the icon and reveal that Zelinsky was a humble, highly curious, and a dedicated researcher and explorer--traits that are found in all good geographers. Lewis notes that Zelinsky's ocular observation of the world led and drove much of his research--sort of a follow your nose method, but be sure and ready to do the necessary research to back up what you find.
As I read through this article I felt as though I was reading an advertisement for how geography and cultural geography in particular, is one of the best tools for a person to understand and analyze the world. Lewis stressed the importance of Zelinsky's extensive fieldwork and his ability to match the data and statistics to the landscape. Not only was Zelinsky a fantastic field research he was also a cartographer. As Lewis explains a picture can be worth a thousand words; an eye opener to difficult concepts or vast amounts of data.
When Lewis recounted his first meeting with Zelinsky at a local bar at the annual AAG (Association of American Geographers) meeting and his nervousness and excitement to meet one of his own icons, I recalled my own encounters--even from a distance-- at the San Francisco AAG meeting of the icons of my era: Yi-Fu Tuan and Bill Wycoff to name just a few and my own giddiness of potentially shaking hands with them to say thank you for inspiring young scholars to enter the field of geography.
Really what Lewis demonstrates in this article are the characteristic of a good geographer, nay, great geographer and how these traits can be emulated by humble curious students.
The list of words:
polymathic: a person of wide ranging knowledge or learning
mirabile dictu: wonderful to relate
logleptic: this what I found for definitions (plus the website is pretty cool for obscure words)
logolepsy n. - an obsession with words
logolept n. - a person who is obsessed with words
fuscous: techincial/literary, dark and somber in color
jerkinheads: the sloping ends of the ridge at the gables
The name bombs/icon shrapnel:
Peirce F. Lewis
Peter Gould
Don Meinig
These names are dropped on UNR Geography students all the time-better know who they are and how they have contributed to avoid getting blown up by them!
As I read through this article I felt as though I was reading an advertisement for how geography and cultural geography in particular, is one of the best tools for a person to understand and analyze the world. Lewis stressed the importance of Zelinsky's extensive fieldwork and his ability to match the data and statistics to the landscape. Not only was Zelinsky a fantastic field research he was also a cartographer. As Lewis explains a picture can be worth a thousand words; an eye opener to difficult concepts or vast amounts of data.
When Lewis recounted his first meeting with Zelinsky at a local bar at the annual AAG (Association of American Geographers) meeting and his nervousness and excitement to meet one of his own icons, I recalled my own encounters--even from a distance-- at the San Francisco AAG meeting of the icons of my era: Yi-Fu Tuan and Bill Wycoff to name just a few and my own giddiness of potentially shaking hands with them to say thank you for inspiring young scholars to enter the field of geography.
Really what Lewis demonstrates in this article are the characteristic of a good geographer, nay, great geographer and how these traits can be emulated by humble curious students.
The list of words:
polymathic: a person of wide ranging knowledge or learning
mirabile dictu: wonderful to relate
logleptic: this what I found for definitions (plus the website is pretty cool for obscure words)
logolepsy n. - an obsession with words
logolept n. - a person who is obsessed with words
fuscous: techincial/literary, dark and somber in color
jerkinheads: the sloping ends of the ridge at the gables
The name bombs/icon shrapnel:
Peirce F. Lewis
Peter Gould
Don Meinig
These names are dropped on UNR Geography students all the time-better know who they are and how they have contributed to avoid getting blown up by them!
Monday, January 28, 2008
Zelinsky and the South
Just when I thought I had escaped the study of Vernacular Architecture it reared its head in this article (Zelinsky, W. 1951. Where the South Begins: The Northern Limit of the Cis-Appalachian South in Terms of Settlement Landscape. Social Forces. 30 (2): 172-178) as a method for delineating the South. Zelinsky uses settlement landscapes (the aggregate pattern of all structures and assemblages of structure in which man houses his activities; or in layman's terms--where man puts his structures and does his thing) and the specific patterns created in these landscapes to create a boundary of the cultural South.
This method of creating a data set and observing the landscape is very similar to the methods employed in archeology, anthropology, vernacular architecture study, and folklore to create and define boundaries for particular groups. Not surprising then that it is used in geography to spatial observe a cultural boundary. What differs, and usually will when put to use by geographers, is scale. Zelinsky moves the reader from the small localized scale of houses to small towns. His transition to the larger scale allows the reader to visual the physical make up and perhaps the cultural make up of the area, giving a sense of place to the area.
Zelinsky finds that when this method is employed it creates a boundary that extends north into Maryland (Cecil County) but is abutted by distinct cultural shift to Pennsylvania German. The western edge of this culture area runs along the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Great so Zelinsky has delineated the South based on buildings and their patterns but as I read through this article there was something that bothered me.
Specifically the issue of diffusion. People and ideas move, as would building types and placement patterns. Zelinsky never really addressed this issue, with the exception of the brief comment of "large numbers of African Americans" in the same area that he had delineated. I wonder how his boundary would shift and change over time, perhaps this is a project for an ambitious geographer to undertake.
One particular thing that I did like about this article are the maps. It took me a few moments of examining them to realize that they are all turned 90 degrees to the right. While it may not seem like that big of deal it is sort of a novel thing to do. It focused my attention to the greater depth and coastal location of Zelinsky's South. It gave new perspective on how to see the South. Zelinsky's use of comparative maps to support his delineation is great, in particular the mule to horse ratio map. After I read the paragraph relating to this map I immediately thought of the canals in Washington, D.C. that I had seen with mule paths along the sides so that they could pull the boats along. If you'd like to see these canal paths head over to Georgetown.
This method of creating a data set and observing the landscape is very similar to the methods employed in archeology, anthropology, vernacular architecture study, and folklore to create and define boundaries for particular groups. Not surprising then that it is used in geography to spatial observe a cultural boundary. What differs, and usually will when put to use by geographers, is scale. Zelinsky moves the reader from the small localized scale of houses to small towns. His transition to the larger scale allows the reader to visual the physical make up and perhaps the cultural make up of the area, giving a sense of place to the area.
Zelinsky finds that when this method is employed it creates a boundary that extends north into Maryland (Cecil County) but is abutted by distinct cultural shift to Pennsylvania German. The western edge of this culture area runs along the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Great so Zelinsky has delineated the South based on buildings and their patterns but as I read through this article there was something that bothered me.
Specifically the issue of diffusion. People and ideas move, as would building types and placement patterns. Zelinsky never really addressed this issue, with the exception of the brief comment of "large numbers of African Americans" in the same area that he had delineated. I wonder how his boundary would shift and change over time, perhaps this is a project for an ambitious geographer to undertake.
One particular thing that I did like about this article are the maps. It took me a few moments of examining them to realize that they are all turned 90 degrees to the right. While it may not seem like that big of deal it is sort of a novel thing to do. It focused my attention to the greater depth and coastal location of Zelinsky's South. It gave new perspective on how to see the South. Zelinsky's use of comparative maps to support his delineation is great, in particular the mule to horse ratio map. After I read the paragraph relating to this map I immediately thought of the canals in Washington, D.C. that I had seen with mule paths along the sides so that they could pull the boats along. If you'd like to see these canal paths head over to Georgetown.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Beginnings
Here we go, a blog for Becca. This is going to be an adventure in and of itself. Motivating factor for this blog: a class. Perhaps as the course goes on and I become more comfortable with this technology, I will post more thoughts and musings on my adventures, readings, and interactions with the world. Here goes something.
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