"Ever since I was a young boy, I've played the silver ball."
Roger Daltrey and Pete Townsend......Rock & Roll Legends. They did not disappoint!!
Daltrey's vocal chords are a little weakened after 40 years, but the intensity was still there.
Townsend's sweeping guitar moves are still amazing.
Playing to many generations, their song selection ranged from their classics to the present.
They played several songs from their new CD, "Ëndless Wire" which were quite good but not the vintage "Who" that we wanted to hear.
They included their 1981 hit- "You better go bet" (#18 on the charts for 15 weeks) Gerry recognized only three of the songs that they played. Their new stuff was played at the expense of not including their late 60s classics "Magic Bus" and "Ï can see for miles and miles" MMMMMMMMMMM.......... Bummmmmmmerrr!
"Pinball Wizard" was extraordinary!!! I have waited 40 years to see the Who do that one.
Overall, a great performance but without the two classics, and because they didn't smash their guitars on stage, it was a little disappointing. However I was able to score a Who poster and shirt.
OK that's it!! Concert number 474-a 26 mile marathon to go!
2/15/2007
2/09/2007
Belize, Guatemalla, Chiapas
Security is an illusion.Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.Hellen Keller
El viajeCashcoon, (Cancun) Chichen Itza, Telum, Chetumal, Belize City, Belmopan, Flores, Tikal, Palenque, Playa del Carmen, CashcoonOver 2800 miles -4 Southern Mexican States, Belize & GuatemalaHighlights-Exploring in awe, the mysterious Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza, Telum, Tikal & PalenqueEl Castillo-Chichen Itza Palenque (PICS by Zo)-Hanging out at Flores Lake in Guatemala-Hiking along Agua Azul and Misol-Ha WaterfallsAqua Azul Misol-Ha -Canoeing up Rio Usumacinta in remote jungle territory, bordering Mexico and Guatemala where a heavy concentration of Zapatistas continue to wage war with the Mexican government.-Hanging out at beautiful Playa del Carmen-Motorbiking around Cozumel Isla-Hiking the Hotel Zone-- 20 Kilometers of storied beach in CashcoonMy Amigo Zo and I wasted no time getting out of Cashcoon where the T-shirt of choice seems to be.......One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, Floor! We considered a flight to the forbidden island- Cuba, only a half hour away on an old Russian built aircraft, but did not want to risk getting fined.Our first stop was Chichen Itza, the most famous and best restored of the Yucatan Peninsula's Mayan sites. We took in the light and sound show that evening and dined at a street taqueria for $2. Our favorite part of the day was the trek up to the Red Jaguar.Red Jaguar Throne"El Tunnel," the passage up to the throne, is up a steep, narrow stairway. The climb was slippery, sweltering, and a bit claustrophobic. From Chichen Itza we traveled to Telum on the Caribbean Sea. We consumed several cervezas at a beach side bar before retiring to our primitive cabana.The next day we headed for Chetumal on the border with Belize. Our plan was to do some snorkeling in Belize, but we hit Belize City in a torrential downpour and so decided to continue on through Belize to Flores, Guatemala, close to the Tikal ruins.Zo was having chills and feeling sick. Upon arrival, we checked into a minus-10-star hotel, for $8 , and went to dinner on the lake. Zo was barely able to get anything down. I stuffed myself with shrimp and cocktails.A hard days nightZo developed a fever and was not doing well at all. After making another trip to the bathroom, he fainted and hit the floor with a crash.His shoulder was injured and he had no range of motion in his right arm.The rest of the evening was pure hell for both of us as we were feverishly sweating and ants were crawling all over us. The next day, Zo stayed in bed and I went to the ruins at Tikal but was struggling with nausea. I felt better after a nice vomiting session.Although I was not feeling well enough to fully appreciate these fabulous ruins in the middle of the jungle, I did enjoy sightings of several howler monkeys, a coatamundi, red parrot and a crocodile.Sala, si usted puede (Get out, if you can)That night we decided to continue with our original plans of making a loop and going to Palenque Chiapas. We were both feeling lousy but we had to suck it up and get back somehow. We contracted with a local tourist group to get us to Palenque. We were told that it would take four or five hours on a good road. It didn't quite work out that way. Good roads are relative to the environment.We spent close to eight hours on a dirt road traveling through the Guatemala jungle. At the end of the road was a wide river. Our bus trip was over. Here we took a canoe upriver for about ten miles through the Lacondon Jungle to a Mexican Army control point. Rio Usumacinta (PIC by Zo)This remote pocket of jungle area (written up in the world's most dangerous places book) is where many EZLN (Zapatista National Liberation Army) hide and operate, presently waging only a propaganda war against the Mexican Government.History (Note: This data was extracted from Lonely Planet)In 1994 this left-wing peasant group took over government offices in three location of Chiapas. They were dispersed by the Mexican Army within a few days but more than150 people were killed in the fighting. The peasants retreated to the mountains and jungle. Their goal was to overturn the corrupt wealthy power in the state, where most indigenous people were impoverished, lacking education, health care and other fundamental civil rights.Subcommandante MarcosThe Zapitistas attracted world wide support and sympathy.Their leader, subcommandante Marcos, became and continues to be a folk-hero in Mexico and beyond.In 1997 & 1998 tension and killings escalated in Chiapas. Zapatistas' enemies formed para military organizations to drive Zapatista supporters from their villages. Violence reached it's worst point with the Acteal massacre.In 1999, the Mexican Army had approximately 60,000 troops in Chiapas and launched a campaign of intimidation against dozens of pro-Zapatista villages. Thousands fled to the Jungle.In 2001 the Zapatistas made a much publicized journey to Mexico City.The president, Vicente Fox, presented a bill granting rights to Mexico's indigenous people, however Congress watered down the provisions and today there is still an impasse as the Zapatistas rejected the law as a basis for peace talks. Back to the control pointAfter we were thoroughly interrogated regarding the possibility of being pro-Zapatistas, we were allowed to move on. We got a ride to a bus and then finally made it to Palenque.Palenque is gorgeous and we had a good day hiking. We planned on traveling to San Cristobol next. However, the following day Zo started having more "episodes" and was not eating. Lobo had been treating his ailment with cervezas and burritos but was not feeling real crisp. So we decided it would be best to move towards Cashcoon and spend some time relaxing in Playa del Carmen.Riders on the StormWe took an 11 hour, all night bus to Playa del Carmen through torrential rain. The air conditioning was cranked up all the way, freezing our shorts clad bodies. Time after time we were stopped by imposing roadblocks. The Federales would board and search for Zapatistas and/or banditos who make a living robbing night buses. It was impossible to get any sleep.In beautiful Playa del Carmen we treated ourselves to a very nice hotel and hung out for a few days. Zo had not eaten for five days and decided to seek "professional" attention. We went to an emergency Doctor's office located in a sleazy hotel room. Inside, we heard loud grunting noises. We knocked on the door.A loud "uno minuto" came from inside and then we heard the toilet flush.I decided to forego treatment. Zo was given an ampicillan prescription that, as it turned out, can be bought over the counter in Mexico. He was also given a prescription for a big bottle of horrible tasting anti-diarrhea serum.On to Cashcoon (Cancun)We returned to Cashcoon in order to see a bullfight. Although we hated the hotel zone we nonetheless stayed in a nice resort room that overlooked the beautifully colored Caribbean Sea. We had cervezas at the Hard Rock Cafe but failed to make it to the Mecca--Senor Frog's.It was wonderful to pay $7 for a one-scoop ice cream cone at the mall.The World Trade Organization was meeting and the atmosphere was tense. Military and police were everywhere. Three Mexican naval vessels (WW2 vintage) could be seen from shore.A Japanese protester had stabbed himself, and rocks were being hurled at the riot squad. Access to the Toro Bravos arena was barricaded and our cab driver had to turn around and try to get in from the South. He did a stellar job of driving around and through protesters, army, and police to get us to the arena on time. We were estatic. We would finally see the bullfight that has eluded us for many years. But, what's this? The bullfight was canceled--with no refunds!Somebody else stole our cab and we were left in the middle of this melee. We decided to head for the Mercado, have a few cervezas and forget about this whole ugly incident. En route we somehow ended up crossing through the protesters' tent camp and headquarters. We resisted the urge to become violent after missing the bullfight and went shopping instead. Get Back to where you once belongWe arrived at the airport five hours early to be certain that we would get out of Cashcoon. Fifty cent Coronas and a free shot of tequila at the airport did not change our attitude about Cashcoon. We hate it!!!Men Behaving badly-Zo for having frequent "episodes" and at one time dropping our only roll of TP in the toilet.Zo for becoming cranky and irritable and at one point, after an 11 hour all night bus ride, snapping at El Lobo Grande.-Zo for accusing El Lobo Grande of behaving like a dirty old man when encountering topless beauties on the beach. This is such a crock! I hardly noticed those luscious, perky TaTas.-Zo's grunting doctor, who charged $80 to write a prescription for an over the counter medication.El Lobo for estimating a beach walk to a point in the hotel zone to be only a mile. So I was short by only seven miles?Playa del Carmen venders--Lobo had to endure cat calls of "Bandito" when walking down the street due to his tough negotiation skills.EpilogueThe day after returning, Lorenzo was not having any "episodes." He left for a decadent weekend in Las Vegas to see the De La Hoya fight.Lorenzo Martinez lives in Mesa Arizona and works at the State Legislature. He enjoys rock climbing.El Lobo went to his doctor and is currently taking a strong dose of Ciproflaxin and Matronidazole. (His costs were only $60) Lobo attended a reception with spouse at the Nelson Fine Art's Museum at Arizona State. It featured Mexican folk Art. After the reception El Lobo polished off an entire pizza. He presently is able to pass gas comfortably and confidently. He enjoys Canyoneering and rock concerts. Daily activities include working on his yoga practice, tennis and listening to surf music.El Lobo Grande lives in Scottsdale Arizona with his wife Gerry and daughter, Cody.
El viajeCashcoon, (Cancun) Chichen Itza, Telum, Chetumal, Belize City, Belmopan, Flores, Tikal, Palenque, Playa del Carmen, CashcoonOver 2800 miles -4 Southern Mexican States, Belize & GuatemalaHighlights-Exploring in awe, the mysterious Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza, Telum, Tikal & PalenqueEl Castillo-Chichen Itza Palenque (PICS by Zo)-Hanging out at Flores Lake in Guatemala-Hiking along Agua Azul and Misol-Ha WaterfallsAqua Azul Misol-Ha -Canoeing up Rio Usumacinta in remote jungle territory, bordering Mexico and Guatemala where a heavy concentration of Zapatistas continue to wage war with the Mexican government.-Hanging out at beautiful Playa del Carmen-Motorbiking around Cozumel Isla-Hiking the Hotel Zone-- 20 Kilometers of storied beach in CashcoonMy Amigo Zo and I wasted no time getting out of Cashcoon where the T-shirt of choice seems to be.......One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, Floor! We considered a flight to the forbidden island- Cuba, only a half hour away on an old Russian built aircraft, but did not want to risk getting fined.Our first stop was Chichen Itza, the most famous and best restored of the Yucatan Peninsula's Mayan sites. We took in the light and sound show that evening and dined at a street taqueria for $2. Our favorite part of the day was the trek up to the Red Jaguar.Red Jaguar Throne"El Tunnel," the passage up to the throne, is up a steep, narrow stairway. The climb was slippery, sweltering, and a bit claustrophobic. From Chichen Itza we traveled to Telum on the Caribbean Sea. We consumed several cervezas at a beach side bar before retiring to our primitive cabana.The next day we headed for Chetumal on the border with Belize. Our plan was to do some snorkeling in Belize, but we hit Belize City in a torrential downpour and so decided to continue on through Belize to Flores, Guatemala, close to the Tikal ruins.Zo was having chills and feeling sick. Upon arrival, we checked into a minus-10-star hotel, for $8 , and went to dinner on the lake. Zo was barely able to get anything down. I stuffed myself with shrimp and cocktails.A hard days nightZo developed a fever and was not doing well at all. After making another trip to the bathroom, he fainted and hit the floor with a crash.His shoulder was injured and he had no range of motion in his right arm.The rest of the evening was pure hell for both of us as we were feverishly sweating and ants were crawling all over us. The next day, Zo stayed in bed and I went to the ruins at Tikal but was struggling with nausea. I felt better after a nice vomiting session.Although I was not feeling well enough to fully appreciate these fabulous ruins in the middle of the jungle, I did enjoy sightings of several howler monkeys, a coatamundi, red parrot and a crocodile.Sala, si usted puede (Get out, if you can)That night we decided to continue with our original plans of making a loop and going to Palenque Chiapas. We were both feeling lousy but we had to suck it up and get back somehow. We contracted with a local tourist group to get us to Palenque. We were told that it would take four or five hours on a good road. It didn't quite work out that way. Good roads are relative to the environment.We spent close to eight hours on a dirt road traveling through the Guatemala jungle. At the end of the road was a wide river. Our bus trip was over. Here we took a canoe upriver for about ten miles through the Lacondon Jungle to a Mexican Army control point. Rio Usumacinta (PIC by Zo)This remote pocket of jungle area (written up in the world's most dangerous places book) is where many EZLN (Zapatista National Liberation Army) hide and operate, presently waging only a propaganda war against the Mexican Government.History (Note: This data was extracted from Lonely Planet)In 1994 this left-wing peasant group took over government offices in three location of Chiapas. They were dispersed by the Mexican Army within a few days but more than150 people were killed in the fighting. The peasants retreated to the mountains and jungle. Their goal was to overturn the corrupt wealthy power in the state, where most indigenous people were impoverished, lacking education, health care and other fundamental civil rights.Subcommandante MarcosThe Zapitistas attracted world wide support and sympathy.Their leader, subcommandante Marcos, became and continues to be a folk-hero in Mexico and beyond.In 1997 & 1998 tension and killings escalated in Chiapas. Zapatistas' enemies formed para military organizations to drive Zapatista supporters from their villages. Violence reached it's worst point with the Acteal massacre.In 1999, the Mexican Army had approximately 60,000 troops in Chiapas and launched a campaign of intimidation against dozens of pro-Zapatista villages. Thousands fled to the Jungle.In 2001 the Zapatistas made a much publicized journey to Mexico City.The president, Vicente Fox, presented a bill granting rights to Mexico's indigenous people, however Congress watered down the provisions and today there is still an impasse as the Zapatistas rejected the law as a basis for peace talks. Back to the control pointAfter we were thoroughly interrogated regarding the possibility of being pro-Zapatistas, we were allowed to move on. We got a ride to a bus and then finally made it to Palenque.Palenque is gorgeous and we had a good day hiking. We planned on traveling to San Cristobol next. However, the following day Zo started having more "episodes" and was not eating. Lobo had been treating his ailment with cervezas and burritos but was not feeling real crisp. So we decided it would be best to move towards Cashcoon and spend some time relaxing in Playa del Carmen.Riders on the StormWe took an 11 hour, all night bus to Playa del Carmen through torrential rain. The air conditioning was cranked up all the way, freezing our shorts clad bodies. Time after time we were stopped by imposing roadblocks. The Federales would board and search for Zapatistas and/or banditos who make a living robbing night buses. It was impossible to get any sleep.In beautiful Playa del Carmen we treated ourselves to a very nice hotel and hung out for a few days. Zo had not eaten for five days and decided to seek "professional" attention. We went to an emergency Doctor's office located in a sleazy hotel room. Inside, we heard loud grunting noises. We knocked on the door.A loud "uno minuto" came from inside and then we heard the toilet flush.I decided to forego treatment. Zo was given an ampicillan prescription that, as it turned out, can be bought over the counter in Mexico. He was also given a prescription for a big bottle of horrible tasting anti-diarrhea serum.On to Cashcoon (Cancun)We returned to Cashcoon in order to see a bullfight. Although we hated the hotel zone we nonetheless stayed in a nice resort room that overlooked the beautifully colored Caribbean Sea. We had cervezas at the Hard Rock Cafe but failed to make it to the Mecca--Senor Frog's.It was wonderful to pay $7 for a one-scoop ice cream cone at the mall.The World Trade Organization was meeting and the atmosphere was tense. Military and police were everywhere. Three Mexican naval vessels (WW2 vintage) could be seen from shore.A Japanese protester had stabbed himself, and rocks were being hurled at the riot squad. Access to the Toro Bravos arena was barricaded and our cab driver had to turn around and try to get in from the South. He did a stellar job of driving around and through protesters, army, and police to get us to the arena on time. We were estatic. We would finally see the bullfight that has eluded us for many years. But, what's this? The bullfight was canceled--with no refunds!Somebody else stole our cab and we were left in the middle of this melee. We decided to head for the Mercado, have a few cervezas and forget about this whole ugly incident. En route we somehow ended up crossing through the protesters' tent camp and headquarters. We resisted the urge to become violent after missing the bullfight and went shopping instead. Get Back to where you once belongWe arrived at the airport five hours early to be certain that we would get out of Cashcoon. Fifty cent Coronas and a free shot of tequila at the airport did not change our attitude about Cashcoon. We hate it!!!Men Behaving badly-Zo for having frequent "episodes" and at one time dropping our only roll of TP in the toilet.Zo for becoming cranky and irritable and at one point, after an 11 hour all night bus ride, snapping at El Lobo Grande.-Zo for accusing El Lobo Grande of behaving like a dirty old man when encountering topless beauties on the beach. This is such a crock! I hardly noticed those luscious, perky TaTas.-Zo's grunting doctor, who charged $80 to write a prescription for an over the counter medication.El Lobo for estimating a beach walk to a point in the hotel zone to be only a mile. So I was short by only seven miles?Playa del Carmen venders--Lobo had to endure cat calls of "Bandito" when walking down the street due to his tough negotiation skills.EpilogueThe day after returning, Lorenzo was not having any "episodes." He left for a decadent weekend in Las Vegas to see the De La Hoya fight.Lorenzo Martinez lives in Mesa Arizona and works at the State Legislature. He enjoys rock climbing.El Lobo went to his doctor and is currently taking a strong dose of Ciproflaxin and Matronidazole. (His costs were only $60) Lobo attended a reception with spouse at the Nelson Fine Art's Museum at Arizona State. It featured Mexican folk Art. After the reception El Lobo polished off an entire pizza. He presently is able to pass gas comfortably and confidently. He enjoys Canyoneering and rock concerts. Daily activities include working on his yoga practice, tennis and listening to surf music.El Lobo Grande lives in Scottsdale Arizona with his wife Gerry and daughter, Cody.
1/15/2007
Ruins Seldom Seen-Sierra Anchas
“Similarity of intention with others marks the fool from the explorer.” - Bukowski
Vaqueros
ZO
ELG
Dingo the Bad Dog
Drewsky-Bachelor Party Boy
The Sierra Anchas is a relatively small wilderness, forested with Ponderosa Pines within the Tonto National Forest and offers some great remote natural features, but travel in some areas is very difficult due to the extreme topography.
We took a rough Cherry Creek back road to the middle and upper reaches of Cherry Creek where we could set up cowboy base camp and explore ruins in the heartland of the Anchan world. The Anchan developed out of an indigenous Archaic population dating at least as far back as A.D. 800.
Here we sought to find the Pueblo Ruins, hidden in the rugged steep walled canyons leading into Cherry Creek. We had been here once before and had done an intimidating climb to the Cooper Forks Canyon Ruins. Travel and route finding was extremely difficult and we struggled to return before dark.
We started our bushwhack at ten in the morning, hopeful to be back in camp before dark and not requiring a return with headlamps. After about 2 steep miles we were able to spot them with binoculars. Awesome!!!!
We finally arrived, bloody by the thick brush, but elated to find this prehistoric apartment complex. Quite a few of the rooms reach a second story and one building stands three stories high with a partially intact wooden ceiling between the first and second floors. There were wooden beams the size of telephone poles that once supported roofs or second stories lying on the ground. A number of seeps answered our question of "did they have to climb all the way to Cherry Creek for water?" Still, why had the Anchans chose to live in such a challenging environment?
We returned to cowboy camp well before dark, in time for an extended Cerveza Happy Hour.
EL Lobo H. Grande romping in the Sierra Anchas
Hard to find San Pueblo Ruins across the canyon (middle of the picture)
Ruins portal
Zo examining the Anchan culture
Zo the ancient wood gatherer, laboring for the cowboy fire
Cowboys Behaving Badly
Dingo & Zo - for having a pre-hike beer and leaving poor Lobo short of beer for his dinner.
Group - for reenacting the infamous Blazing Saddles scene, after having a steak, potatoes and Cowboy BEANS dinner, mmm.
Lobo - for turning down post dinner seegars and 16 year old single malt scotch, and instead going straight to his sleeping bag after his belly was full.
Zo, for perhaps having a vision of Brokeback Mountain and yelling at Lobo to zip up his sleeping bag. Note: Zo could not sleep with his head outside the tent because of high winds and rain.
Dingo, Zo and Drew for having the rest of the scotch in their morning coffee.
Lobo for getting up very early and yelling "where's my koffffffeeeeeeee!!!! at Los Borachos to get them up. Also for dancing wildly to "What a Feeling" by Irene Cara.
"Take your passionand make it happen.Pictures come alive, now I'm dancing through my life."
Drew - for ignoring the group’s combined wisdom and still planning on going through with his wedding. (Good luck Brendan)
Drew - Whom on a previous trip to Gila Wilderness New Mexico handed Lobo a useless bottle of Beano and proclaimed "This is ridiculous" On this trip he often had a satisfied smile followed up with MMMMMMMMMMMM
Vaqueros
ZO
ELG
Dingo the Bad Dog
Drewsky-Bachelor Party Boy
The Sierra Anchas is a relatively small wilderness, forested with Ponderosa Pines within the Tonto National Forest and offers some great remote natural features, but travel in some areas is very difficult due to the extreme topography.
We took a rough Cherry Creek back road to the middle and upper reaches of Cherry Creek where we could set up cowboy base camp and explore ruins in the heartland of the Anchan world. The Anchan developed out of an indigenous Archaic population dating at least as far back as A.D. 800.
Here we sought to find the Pueblo Ruins, hidden in the rugged steep walled canyons leading into Cherry Creek. We had been here once before and had done an intimidating climb to the Cooper Forks Canyon Ruins. Travel and route finding was extremely difficult and we struggled to return before dark.
We started our bushwhack at ten in the morning, hopeful to be back in camp before dark and not requiring a return with headlamps. After about 2 steep miles we were able to spot them with binoculars. Awesome!!!!
We finally arrived, bloody by the thick brush, but elated to find this prehistoric apartment complex. Quite a few of the rooms reach a second story and one building stands three stories high with a partially intact wooden ceiling between the first and second floors. There were wooden beams the size of telephone poles that once supported roofs or second stories lying on the ground. A number of seeps answered our question of "did they have to climb all the way to Cherry Creek for water?" Still, why had the Anchans chose to live in such a challenging environment?
We returned to cowboy camp well before dark, in time for an extended Cerveza Happy Hour.
EL Lobo H. Grande romping in the Sierra Anchas
Hard to find San Pueblo Ruins across the canyon (middle of the picture)
Ruins portal
Zo examining the Anchan culture
Zo the ancient wood gatherer, laboring for the cowboy fire
Cowboys Behaving Badly
Dingo & Zo - for having a pre-hike beer and leaving poor Lobo short of beer for his dinner.
Group - for reenacting the infamous Blazing Saddles scene, after having a steak, potatoes and Cowboy BEANS dinner, mmm.
Lobo - for turning down post dinner seegars and 16 year old single malt scotch, and instead going straight to his sleeping bag after his belly was full.
Zo, for perhaps having a vision of Brokeback Mountain and yelling at Lobo to zip up his sleeping bag. Note: Zo could not sleep with his head outside the tent because of high winds and rain.
Dingo, Zo and Drew for having the rest of the scotch in their morning coffee.
Lobo for getting up very early and yelling "where's my koffffffeeeeeeee!!!! at Los Borachos to get them up. Also for dancing wildly to "What a Feeling" by Irene Cara.
"Take your passionand make it happen.Pictures come alive, now I'm dancing through my life."
Drew - for ignoring the group’s combined wisdom and still planning on going through with his wedding. (Good luck Brendan)
Drew - Whom on a previous trip to Gila Wilderness New Mexico handed Lobo a useless bottle of Beano and proclaimed "This is ridiculous" On this trip he often had a satisfied smile followed up with MMMMMMMMMMMM
Woodstock Redux
"The New York Through Way is Closed, Man!"
Woodstock -Arlo Guthrie July 22, 1969 1:33 A.M.
If you're going to Scottsdale, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair.
Yes, that's right, there is flower power in Scottsdale!
A lot of freaks, Man!
Continuing the tradition that began in the 60's, of traveling from rock show to rock show and camping out with fellow music-loving nomads, thousands showed up Friday morning to the venue at Westworld to dig in, many came in Volkswagen buses.
Amazing! Just like old times. Where do these people come from?
The McDowell Mountain Music Festival festival went non stop all weekend, I went Friday night with Juan DA Jackal and Saturday night Ger and I opted to go to the Scottsdale Center for the Arts.
Friday night-Concert #476.....The Neville Brothers and Bob Weir and Ratdog
Saturday night-Concert #477 .....Arlo Guthrie and Family -Legacy Tour
The Mountain Festival featured an eclectic lineup of rock & soul bands from around the world."
Juan is a "Deadhead" and was decked out in a colorful tie die shirt when I picked him up.
I was wearing my outfit of choice since the 50's-501 Levis, nothing has changed there.
I was very interested in the Neville Brothers, a very fine New Orleans soul band. When we arrived Aaron Neville was singing his classic "Tell it Like it is" which hit number 2 on the charts in December of 1966. I love that song and have been waiting all my life to hear Aaron sing it.
The Neville Brothers were excellent!!!
The festival had all the ingredients of a mini Woodstock less Wavy Gravy and Max Yeager.
Peace love and music. There was not a police presence and everyone was having fun. Beach balls, frisbes and cannabis were in the air. People were dancing crazily to the music, many food and head booths, and appropriately, large trucks selling Sierra Nevada Beer brewed out of Chico California. The best beer in the world!
Juan transitioned from a conservative Republican to a let your hair down liberal. Always the people person, he interviewed several attendees and made friends with a guy selling magic mushrooms.
The deadheads were bobbing their heads like bobble dolls and in unison, pointing to the stage when Bob Weir played. Reefers were passed around. Our drug of choice was slamming down Sierra Nevada's.
I wondered why the deadheads bobbed their heads and pointed, but half way into the concert I started doing the same and fully understood the importance of this ritual. Perhaps this was because of the second hand smoke or that I simply just plugged into the feeling.
On the way home, I stopped at a convenience store so Juan could get some chew. I had developed a serious case of the "munchies". This was treated with the largest ice cream cone in the world. Best one that I have ever had!
"This Land is your Land"
Saturday night was a fantastic evening under the stars. Ole Arlo and Co. put on a vintage performance. His group included many talented family members. The crowd absolutely loved them.
Arlo told a lot of funny stories and to his credit he kept the politics to a minimum. He played a lot of Woody's stuff. His legendary father was all that a lot of people had for comfort during the depression and dust bowl of Oklahoma.
"You Can Get Anything that you Want at Alice's Restaurant"
Before playing his Woodstock Classic-Coming into Los Angeles bringing in a couple of keys" Arlo told a funny story about a Bush secret service guy that he recently met in the airport that was our age. After shaking hands with Arlo he blurted out "Alright Guthrie, are you carrying a couple of keys?"
Coming into Los AngelesBringing in a couple of keysDon't touch my bags if you pleaseMister Customs Man
We both love that song!!!
It was a great evening and a great weekend, just like old times!
El Lobo H . Grande
Woodstock -Arlo Guthrie July 22, 1969 1:33 A.M.
If you're going to Scottsdale, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair.
Yes, that's right, there is flower power in Scottsdale!
A lot of freaks, Man!
Continuing the tradition that began in the 60's, of traveling from rock show to rock show and camping out with fellow music-loving nomads, thousands showed up Friday morning to the venue at Westworld to dig in, many came in Volkswagen buses.
Amazing! Just like old times. Where do these people come from?
The McDowell Mountain Music Festival festival went non stop all weekend, I went Friday night with Juan DA Jackal and Saturday night Ger and I opted to go to the Scottsdale Center for the Arts.
Friday night-Concert #476.....The Neville Brothers and Bob Weir and Ratdog
Saturday night-Concert #477 .....Arlo Guthrie and Family -Legacy Tour
The Mountain Festival featured an eclectic lineup of rock & soul bands from around the world."
Juan is a "Deadhead" and was decked out in a colorful tie die shirt when I picked him up.
I was wearing my outfit of choice since the 50's-501 Levis, nothing has changed there.
I was very interested in the Neville Brothers, a very fine New Orleans soul band. When we arrived Aaron Neville was singing his classic "Tell it Like it is" which hit number 2 on the charts in December of 1966. I love that song and have been waiting all my life to hear Aaron sing it.
The Neville Brothers were excellent!!!
The festival had all the ingredients of a mini Woodstock less Wavy Gravy and Max Yeager.
Peace love and music. There was not a police presence and everyone was having fun. Beach balls, frisbes and cannabis were in the air. People were dancing crazily to the music, many food and head booths, and appropriately, large trucks selling Sierra Nevada Beer brewed out of Chico California. The best beer in the world!
Juan transitioned from a conservative Republican to a let your hair down liberal. Always the people person, he interviewed several attendees and made friends with a guy selling magic mushrooms.
The deadheads were bobbing their heads like bobble dolls and in unison, pointing to the stage when Bob Weir played. Reefers were passed around. Our drug of choice was slamming down Sierra Nevada's.
I wondered why the deadheads bobbed their heads and pointed, but half way into the concert I started doing the same and fully understood the importance of this ritual. Perhaps this was because of the second hand smoke or that I simply just plugged into the feeling.
On the way home, I stopped at a convenience store so Juan could get some chew. I had developed a serious case of the "munchies". This was treated with the largest ice cream cone in the world. Best one that I have ever had!
"This Land is your Land"
Saturday night was a fantastic evening under the stars. Ole Arlo and Co. put on a vintage performance. His group included many talented family members. The crowd absolutely loved them.
Arlo told a lot of funny stories and to his credit he kept the politics to a minimum. He played a lot of Woody's stuff. His legendary father was all that a lot of people had for comfort during the depression and dust bowl of Oklahoma.
"You Can Get Anything that you Want at Alice's Restaurant"
Before playing his Woodstock Classic-Coming into Los Angeles bringing in a couple of keys" Arlo told a funny story about a Bush secret service guy that he recently met in the airport that was our age. After shaking hands with Arlo he blurted out "Alright Guthrie, are you carrying a couple of keys?"
Coming into Los AngelesBringing in a couple of keysDon't touch my bags if you pleaseMister Customs Man
We both love that song!!!
It was a great evening and a great weekend, just like old times!
El Lobo H . Grande
Supai Reload-Zion
"A free spirit must be able to surmount anxiety time after time."
Mason Cooley
I returned from a six day Supai Grand Canyon trip with an Arizona Highways photography group late Thursday night and took a final at ASU early Friday morning. After, I spent an hour pacing the hall in front of Ger's office while she frantically tried to get everything in order so that we could get on the road for a seven hour drive to Zion National Park in Utah for a special wedding and some hiking.
So this email is all about a couple of wonderful people, free spirits that were united in matrimony at the altar of Zion. Brendan is a fine writer from Denver and Emily is in graduate school preparing for social work. They make a beautiful couple and have been soul mates for quite a time.
We really enjoyed the ceremony and reception and all their wonderful friends and family.
The following day we did some mild hiking, checked out the legendary "Narrows" and took in the incredible Zion National Park.
On the way home we stopped in Vegas and had a really nice visit and dinner with our friends Al and Chris Yates. And yes, we split the bill --Mckimmeeeee!!!
OK, for you sickos that only read these reports for the MBB section, I have included a particularly disgusting entry. For those of you that are mentally healthy and enjoy natural beauty I have included a few nice photos
Mooney Falls Grand Canyon
Brendan & Emily in a gopher field at Zion
WOW! Who is that Lady??
Men Behaving Badly
El Lobo Grande for redefining the term "draining your lizard"
While in Supai, Lobo was taking a leak under a tree, out of the scorching sun, when a lizard poked his head around the corner of the tree to see what was going on, then incredibly, scurried under the man made waterfall for a shower! El Lobo accommodated the little fellah and was happy to be part of the circle of life.
You see, lack of water creates a survival problem for all desert organisms, animals and plants alike. Fortunately, most desert animals have evolved both behavioral and physiological mechanisms to solve the heat and water problems the desert environment creates. Behavioral techniques for avoiding excess heat are numerous among desert animals.This little fella caught a shower when the opportunity presented itself.
The Turkey Vultures excrete urine on their legs cooling them by evaporation, and circulate the cooled blood back through their body. This behavior is called urohydrosis.
I just love nature!
Reload!!!
Mason Cooley
I returned from a six day Supai Grand Canyon trip with an Arizona Highways photography group late Thursday night and took a final at ASU early Friday morning. After, I spent an hour pacing the hall in front of Ger's office while she frantically tried to get everything in order so that we could get on the road for a seven hour drive to Zion National Park in Utah for a special wedding and some hiking.
So this email is all about a couple of wonderful people, free spirits that were united in matrimony at the altar of Zion. Brendan is a fine writer from Denver and Emily is in graduate school preparing for social work. They make a beautiful couple and have been soul mates for quite a time.
We really enjoyed the ceremony and reception and all their wonderful friends and family.
The following day we did some mild hiking, checked out the legendary "Narrows" and took in the incredible Zion National Park.
On the way home we stopped in Vegas and had a really nice visit and dinner with our friends Al and Chris Yates. And yes, we split the bill --Mckimmeeeee!!!
OK, for you sickos that only read these reports for the MBB section, I have included a particularly disgusting entry. For those of you that are mentally healthy and enjoy natural beauty I have included a few nice photos
Mooney Falls Grand Canyon
Brendan & Emily in a gopher field at Zion
WOW! Who is that Lady??
Men Behaving Badly
El Lobo Grande for redefining the term "draining your lizard"
While in Supai, Lobo was taking a leak under a tree, out of the scorching sun, when a lizard poked his head around the corner of the tree to see what was going on, then incredibly, scurried under the man made waterfall for a shower! El Lobo accommodated the little fellah and was happy to be part of the circle of life.
You see, lack of water creates a survival problem for all desert organisms, animals and plants alike. Fortunately, most desert animals have evolved both behavioral and physiological mechanisms to solve the heat and water problems the desert environment creates. Behavioral techniques for avoiding excess heat are numerous among desert animals.This little fella caught a shower when the opportunity presented itself.
The Turkey Vultures excrete urine on their legs cooling them by evaporation, and circulate the cooled blood back through their body. This behavior is called urohydrosis.
I just love nature!
Reload!!!
The Jersey Boy and Good Vibrations
"Inside, outside USA"
Can you believe it? The Beach Boys opened for Frankie Valli! Who would have thought!
Last night at the Phoenix Dodge Theatre we caught an unbeatable combination, a contrast of the best from the west and the east.
The theatre was packed with the geritol crowd, mostly people in their 50's and 60's, some with their grand kids. New energy injected into our veins through "real music",(and alcohol) us aging boomers were on our feet for the better part of both performances. Lit cell phones were waved. We were alive again!!
Ger and I came to see Frankie. We had seen the Beach Boys a dozen times previous and were not that interested in seeing America's Band with only Bruce Johnston, the sixth Beach Boy and Mike Love remaining and trying to keep the summer alive. I mean Mike Love is now 65. Can he really still be the consummate front man?
I remember one performance up at Tahoe, in the late 70's when the band had the same powerful impact as a Stealth Bomber flying over a football stadium.
But we were really surprised! Although not originals, the rest of the band was a very talented group and they put on a DYNO-MITE show.
Tears came to my eyes when .Bruce sang and dedicated "God Only Knows" to the deceased Carl Wilson. Carl co/wrote and sang that song at their performances. For many years he was the soul of the Beach Boys.
Bruce
God, I love Bruce Johnston and the memories of Carl. Bruce has been with the group since 1965 when Brian became ill. He has penned several number one hits including Ï write the songs" crooned by Barry Manilow.
We both loved the show and the summer was indeed kept alive.
Walkin Like a Man
Frankie is truly a rags to riches story. He grew up in the projects of Newark. He told the story of how at the age of seven, his future course was set when he saw a young Frank Sinatra perform at the Paramount.
Today the story of Frankie and the Four Seasons is a Broadway hit that has won the Tony award. They have sold over 100 million records, had 8 number one hits and thirty seven hits in the top 40--Remarkable, and he is performing like a thirty year old in his seventh decade of life.
Frankie and his group put on a riveting performance. His signature sound, a stratospheric falsetto is almost as strong as ever .Do not miss him if he comes to your town!! He went through about 25 of his hits.
Frankie and Bob Gaudio. Bob penned many of the Four Season hits.
Frankie has a new album coming out in late summer doing songs of the 60's.
In the fall of 1962, "Sherry" was a number one hit on the charts. It was my first year of high school at Reno. I have been waiting all my life to see him do that classic and it plugged me back into that incredible period of time.
Needless to say, we were blown away by the show.
OK that's it, concert number 478. Projected time to break the all time record-2009.
ELG
Tryin to Keep The Summer Alive
Can you believe it? The Beach Boys opened for Frankie Valli! Who would have thought!
Last night at the Phoenix Dodge Theatre we caught an unbeatable combination, a contrast of the best from the west and the east.
The theatre was packed with the geritol crowd, mostly people in their 50's and 60's, some with their grand kids. New energy injected into our veins through "real music",(and alcohol) us aging boomers were on our feet for the better part of both performances. Lit cell phones were waved. We were alive again!!
Ger and I came to see Frankie. We had seen the Beach Boys a dozen times previous and were not that interested in seeing America's Band with only Bruce Johnston, the sixth Beach Boy and Mike Love remaining and trying to keep the summer alive. I mean Mike Love is now 65. Can he really still be the consummate front man?
I remember one performance up at Tahoe, in the late 70's when the band had the same powerful impact as a Stealth Bomber flying over a football stadium.
But we were really surprised! Although not originals, the rest of the band was a very talented group and they put on a DYNO-MITE show.
Tears came to my eyes when .Bruce sang and dedicated "God Only Knows" to the deceased Carl Wilson. Carl co/wrote and sang that song at their performances. For many years he was the soul of the Beach Boys.
Bruce
God, I love Bruce Johnston and the memories of Carl. Bruce has been with the group since 1965 when Brian became ill. He has penned several number one hits including Ï write the songs" crooned by Barry Manilow.
We both loved the show and the summer was indeed kept alive.
Walkin Like a Man
Frankie is truly a rags to riches story. He grew up in the projects of Newark. He told the story of how at the age of seven, his future course was set when he saw a young Frank Sinatra perform at the Paramount.
Today the story of Frankie and the Four Seasons is a Broadway hit that has won the Tony award. They have sold over 100 million records, had 8 number one hits and thirty seven hits in the top 40--Remarkable, and he is performing like a thirty year old in his seventh decade of life.
Frankie and his group put on a riveting performance. His signature sound, a stratospheric falsetto is almost as strong as ever .Do not miss him if he comes to your town!! He went through about 25 of his hits.
Frankie and Bob Gaudio. Bob penned many of the Four Season hits.
Frankie has a new album coming out in late summer doing songs of the 60's.
In the fall of 1962, "Sherry" was a number one hit on the charts. It was my first year of high school at Reno. I have been waiting all my life to see him do that classic and it plugged me back into that incredible period of time.
Needless to say, we were blown away by the show.
OK that's it, concert number 478. Projected time to break the all time record-2009.
ELG
Tryin to Keep The Summer Alive
1/13/2007
Baja-Hotel California
The 2002 Baja Sur Cerveza Challenge
El Bueno, El Hambre,& El Sed
Baja Sur-
San Jose Del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos, La Paz, Loreto, Mulege, Santa Roasalia, Los Barriles, Santiago, Todos Santos. -
Overall trip rating 10++
After eleven mucho calor days, 1600 miles of driving,(Zo) and over sixcases of cerveza my traveling companions and I returned to Cabo San Lucas for our flight home. And, yes, on a dark deserted highway we found The Hotel California.
El Lobo (The Good), Jacobo/El Hambre (The Hungry) and Zo/El Sed (Thirsty-for Pacificos) were ready for the comforts of home. We had slept on the beach, stayed in cock roach infested hotels, driven miles of dusty back roads, were attacked by insects in the Laguna Sierras, scorched by El Sol, harassed by Federales and received the "Big Bite" from police in La Paz.
But, we just loved it. Every minuto, including the gringo populated Cabo
San Lucas.
The California Baja is where the bright blue waters flirt with the harsh desert coast. The Sierra Laguna Mountain range splits Baja Sur. These "sky islands" are rich in biodiversity and accessible from the East or West.
Our journey did not consist of all adventure activities and wasting away in margaritaville. Jacobo (Hambre) led us through museos, galleries, and Catolica iglesias (Catholic churches) at every pueblo and ciudad that we stopped. Yes, he got his cultural depth from the Lobo of all seasons. Or, perhaps his madre.
In Santa Rosalia we visited a church designed by same Senor Eiffel that was responsible for a little tower in Paris.
Highlights:
-Kayaking to vqrious islands in the Sea Of Cortez from Eco Mundo camp near Mulege.
-The comida (food) particularly Restaraunte, MI Casa in Cabo San Lucas. (Highly recommended)
-Colonial Loreto and the Istituto Nacional De Antropologia & Historia.
-Climbing (fourth class) and Hiking in the desert near Eco Mundo with our new amigos, Carlos from Ensenada and Eco (the wonder dog) from Eco Mundo. Sighting two grizzly foxes.
- Hiking to Cascada Sol de Mayo outside of Santiago. Swimming in the deep pools.
- Walking on the endless beaches on the Pacific and Sea of Cortez.
-The rustic zoo in Santiago that had a Bengal Tiger as a guest.
-Scoring great souvenirs, including "Dan" the monkey man, a large Mayan monkey carving. Donde Esta Dan? (Shapiro)
"Welcome to the Hotel California"
-We toured the Hotel California in Todos Santos. The Hotel and souveneir shop claim that it was here, that several of the Eagles Rock Group hung out in the late 60s. The hotel's owners stated that the writer (Glen Frey or Don Felder)of the famous song (one of 5 number 1 hits for the Eagles) has publically stated that some of them stayed there. Don Henly has publically stated that he has never been there.
It is a classic hotel built in 1928 with interesting rooms and architecture. It has not been open for four years. There are dozens of old, dusty suitcases left and stored in one room that has never been opened. A Canadian couple recently purchased it and plan to reopen in Noviembre.
Eco Mundo-(written by Zo-Sed)
Our longest stay was 3 days/nights at Eco Mundo, which is just south of the town of Mulege. Mulege is worth checking out for its old mission which affords a view of a sea of palm trees and 'undeveloped' river walk. Accommodations consisted of hammocks under Palapas (huts with dirt floors covered with palm fronds) situated on the beach 5 feet from the water. The typical day consisted of El Lobo (ahem, El Bueno) getting up with the sun and making his usual morning noises - MMMMMMMMMMM! LORRRRRRRENZO! JAAAAAAAAKE! in an attempt to motivate the unmotivated into a morning hikes up one of the surrounding 'hills'. The motivated were usually joined by the always motivated Carlos (programmer from Vera Cruz/Ensenada/Tijuana) and Eco the resident and possibly most fearless land/water dog in Baja.
We were blown away one morning when we spotted Eco swimming towards an island that we had kayaked to. She had swam close to 5 kilometers. When she arrived, she laid on one of the kayaks, sending a clear message that she wanted a ride back. Jacobo managed to paddle back with her on board without capsizing.
Hikes were followed by a dip in el mar proceeded by a breakfast, prepared by Fabi the caretaker, of huevos con ham (or veggies or chorizo or...) with a side of frijoles, and beer for the still motivated (or smoothie for those think sculpted stomach muscles mean something).
The rest of the day would be spent napping, swimming, hanging out with Eco, Carlos, Tamra from San Diego who came to Baja to find some solitude and found the perfect place for it, and the adventurous Christina and Marta from Spain who provided the spark for profound worldly discussions and plenty of laughs while enjoying cervezas in the dark.
Deep Sea Fishing
We spent a couple of days in Los Barriles. There was a sports fishing tournament in progress and in the afternoon we watched a number of large El Dorados and Blue Marlin "trophies" brought in, weighed and recorded by bonita bikini clad gringo senoritas to add a little spice to the event. We had considered doing some deep sea fishing but decided that seeing these magnificent creatures alive while snorkeling or diving was a better choice for us. Commercial fishing by foreign fleets had seriously depleted the Sea of Cortez but recent Mexican regulatory coastal laws have assisted in restoration. I doubt if sports fishing has had much of an environmental impact.
All of the tourney participants had the same profile, shaped by years of sedentary activity while consuming gallons of Bud and mashed potatoes. We simply had not trained hard enough to participate this year. El Hambre and El Sed are on track for next year's tourney.
Sol De Mayo (written by Zo)
While checking out the zoo and Divo Jacob Iglesia in Santiago, we stopped at a hotel to try to get info on the Sierra Lagunas and were recommended a hike to a 30 foot waterfall with a swimming hole. We took the trusty rental car down the dirt road and hiked down to the picturesque waterfall cascading down to a refreshing and very welcomed swimming hole. This fresh water diversion rivaled our salt water/beach activities.
Men Behaving Badly
-EL Sed for having a beer at 8:36 A.M. on the airplane
-El Lobo for getting caught smuggling El Sed beer from the First Class section
-Jacobo for saying "Tengo Hambre (I am hungry) 97 times on this trip.
-El Sed and El Hambre for screaming "Get em off me" in the Sierra Lagunas while swatting away thousands of flies, knats and mosquitos.
-El Sed for bringing insecto repellent that not only didn't work, it actually attracted malaria carrying mosquitos. What was the DEET content of that product El Sed?
-Pequeno Pr*@K Fedarale that got into El Lobo's face and asked if he had been smoking Mary Juana.
-Grande Pr*@K La Paz policeman whom forgot his ticket book at the estacion and told us that if we were in a hurry could just pay him the 720 pesos for not slowing down somewhere?
-El Hambre for the numerous images of a gringo running off into the desert with papel de banos, loudly moaning-MY ESTOMAGO!! MY ESTOMAGO!!
-El Hambre and El Sed for spending a good portion of the day in the hotel room at La Playita, laying on their beds drinking beer and watching Mexican horror films starring killer alligators and sharks. El Lobo kept appealing to the chicos to get up and do something. Anything!! No se!
-El Lobo for singing "La Cucharacha" whenever he was in the banos
-ALL for producing room clearing odors at least once.
So, did we stop at THE Hotel California, or is the Hotel California a state of mind? Either way, we were there.
Because in the Baja, "you can check out if like, but you can never leave."
Hasta luego
El Bueno, El Hambre,& El Sed
Baja Sur-
San Jose Del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos, La Paz, Loreto, Mulege, Santa Roasalia, Los Barriles, Santiago, Todos Santos. -
Overall trip rating 10++
After eleven mucho calor days, 1600 miles of driving,(Zo) and over sixcases of cerveza my traveling companions and I returned to Cabo San Lucas for our flight home. And, yes, on a dark deserted highway we found The Hotel California.
El Lobo (The Good), Jacobo/El Hambre (The Hungry) and Zo/El Sed (Thirsty-for Pacificos) were ready for the comforts of home. We had slept on the beach, stayed in cock roach infested hotels, driven miles of dusty back roads, were attacked by insects in the Laguna Sierras, scorched by El Sol, harassed by Federales and received the "Big Bite" from police in La Paz.
But, we just loved it. Every minuto, including the gringo populated Cabo
San Lucas.
The California Baja is where the bright blue waters flirt with the harsh desert coast. The Sierra Laguna Mountain range splits Baja Sur. These "sky islands" are rich in biodiversity and accessible from the East or West.
Our journey did not consist of all adventure activities and wasting away in margaritaville. Jacobo (Hambre) led us through museos, galleries, and Catolica iglesias (Catholic churches) at every pueblo and ciudad that we stopped. Yes, he got his cultural depth from the Lobo of all seasons. Or, perhaps his madre.
In Santa Rosalia we visited a church designed by same Senor Eiffel that was responsible for a little tower in Paris.
Highlights:
-Kayaking to vqrious islands in the Sea Of Cortez from Eco Mundo camp near Mulege.
-The comida (food) particularly Restaraunte, MI Casa in Cabo San Lucas. (Highly recommended)
-Colonial Loreto and the Istituto Nacional De Antropologia & Historia.
-Climbing (fourth class) and Hiking in the desert near Eco Mundo with our new amigos, Carlos from Ensenada and Eco (the wonder dog) from Eco Mundo. Sighting two grizzly foxes.
- Hiking to Cascada Sol de Mayo outside of Santiago. Swimming in the deep pools.
- Walking on the endless beaches on the Pacific and Sea of Cortez.
-The rustic zoo in Santiago that had a Bengal Tiger as a guest.
-Scoring great souvenirs, including "Dan" the monkey man, a large Mayan monkey carving. Donde Esta Dan? (Shapiro)
"Welcome to the Hotel California"
-We toured the Hotel California in Todos Santos. The Hotel and souveneir shop claim that it was here, that several of the Eagles Rock Group hung out in the late 60s. The hotel's owners stated that the writer (Glen Frey or Don Felder)of the famous song (one of 5 number 1 hits for the Eagles) has publically stated that some of them stayed there. Don Henly has publically stated that he has never been there.
It is a classic hotel built in 1928 with interesting rooms and architecture. It has not been open for four years. There are dozens of old, dusty suitcases left and stored in one room that has never been opened. A Canadian couple recently purchased it and plan to reopen in Noviembre.
Eco Mundo-(written by Zo-Sed)
Our longest stay was 3 days/nights at Eco Mundo, which is just south of the town of Mulege. Mulege is worth checking out for its old mission which affords a view of a sea of palm trees and 'undeveloped' river walk. Accommodations consisted of hammocks under Palapas (huts with dirt floors covered with palm fronds) situated on the beach 5 feet from the water. The typical day consisted of El Lobo (ahem, El Bueno) getting up with the sun and making his usual morning noises - MMMMMMMMMMM! LORRRRRRRENZO! JAAAAAAAAKE! in an attempt to motivate the unmotivated into a morning hikes up one of the surrounding 'hills'. The motivated were usually joined by the always motivated Carlos (programmer from Vera Cruz/Ensenada/Tijuana) and Eco the resident and possibly most fearless land/water dog in Baja.
We were blown away one morning when we spotted Eco swimming towards an island that we had kayaked to. She had swam close to 5 kilometers. When she arrived, she laid on one of the kayaks, sending a clear message that she wanted a ride back. Jacobo managed to paddle back with her on board without capsizing.
Hikes were followed by a dip in el mar proceeded by a breakfast, prepared by Fabi the caretaker, of huevos con ham (or veggies or chorizo or...) with a side of frijoles, and beer for the still motivated (or smoothie for those think sculpted stomach muscles mean something).
The rest of the day would be spent napping, swimming, hanging out with Eco, Carlos, Tamra from San Diego who came to Baja to find some solitude and found the perfect place for it, and the adventurous Christina and Marta from Spain who provided the spark for profound worldly discussions and plenty of laughs while enjoying cervezas in the dark.
Deep Sea Fishing
We spent a couple of days in Los Barriles. There was a sports fishing tournament in progress and in the afternoon we watched a number of large El Dorados and Blue Marlin "trophies" brought in, weighed and recorded by bonita bikini clad gringo senoritas to add a little spice to the event. We had considered doing some deep sea fishing but decided that seeing these magnificent creatures alive while snorkeling or diving was a better choice for us. Commercial fishing by foreign fleets had seriously depleted the Sea of Cortez but recent Mexican regulatory coastal laws have assisted in restoration. I doubt if sports fishing has had much of an environmental impact.
All of the tourney participants had the same profile, shaped by years of sedentary activity while consuming gallons of Bud and mashed potatoes. We simply had not trained hard enough to participate this year. El Hambre and El Sed are on track for next year's tourney.
Sol De Mayo (written by Zo)
While checking out the zoo and Divo Jacob Iglesia in Santiago, we stopped at a hotel to try to get info on the Sierra Lagunas and were recommended a hike to a 30 foot waterfall with a swimming hole. We took the trusty rental car down the dirt road and hiked down to the picturesque waterfall cascading down to a refreshing and very welcomed swimming hole. This fresh water diversion rivaled our salt water/beach activities.
Men Behaving Badly
-EL Sed for having a beer at 8:36 A.M. on the airplane
-El Lobo for getting caught smuggling El Sed beer from the First Class section
-Jacobo for saying "Tengo Hambre (I am hungry) 97 times on this trip.
-El Sed and El Hambre for screaming "Get em off me" in the Sierra Lagunas while swatting away thousands of flies, knats and mosquitos.
-El Sed for bringing insecto repellent that not only didn't work, it actually attracted malaria carrying mosquitos. What was the DEET content of that product El Sed?
-Pequeno Pr*@K Fedarale that got into El Lobo's face and asked if he had been smoking Mary Juana.
-Grande Pr*@K La Paz policeman whom forgot his ticket book at the estacion and told us that if we were in a hurry could just pay him the 720 pesos for not slowing down somewhere?
-El Hambre for the numerous images of a gringo running off into the desert with papel de banos, loudly moaning-MY ESTOMAGO!! MY ESTOMAGO!!
-El Hambre and El Sed for spending a good portion of the day in the hotel room at La Playita, laying on their beds drinking beer and watching Mexican horror films starring killer alligators and sharks. El Lobo kept appealing to the chicos to get up and do something. Anything!! No se!
-El Lobo for singing "La Cucharacha" whenever he was in the banos
-ALL for producing room clearing odors at least once.
So, did we stop at THE Hotel California, or is the Hotel California a state of mind? Either way, we were there.
Because in the Baja, "you can check out if like, but you can never leave."
Hasta luego
1/12/2007
Muderous Mountain Bike Ride
When you ride hard on a mountain bike, sometimes you fall, otherwise you're not riding hard."President George 'Dubya' Bush, July 2005, following a crash into a bike cop at the G8 summit, Gleneagles, Scotland
Dingo must have been riding hard because he flew off his bike took a 360, landed on his pack and came up smiling. We let out a big sigh off relief. This was no place for an injury. There is no shade and no water.We were in the middle of no man's land.
After driving to the Cameron Trading Post late Friday night, our group got up early and spent 2 hours on a gnarly Navajo back road in order to ride, carry and walk our bikes for 24+ miles in 90 degree temp at 6000 feet. We each carried in excess of a gallon of liquid and it was not enough. We cached some along the way. Elevation gain/loss was estimated at close to 3000 feet.
Our route was a closed jeep trail across the scrubby, gully, carved erosion surface of the Kaibab formation atop the Coconino plateau. Our destination was Cape Solitude. Now we understand why this promontory was named such by Clarence Dutton because, as he put it, "it stands solitary and alone". The Cape towers above the confluence of the Little Colorado and Colorado rivers.
The bike ride was totally gnarly and bone jarring. Large rock, deep sand, and the heat wore us down. We lost the route several times. When we attempted to take a break under one of the few trees along the way hundreds of ants climbed onto our sorry carcases.
It was a short break.
Little Colorado River Gorge-Navajo Land
Keith the Hawk, Dingo Dan and Larry the Mountain Man from Alaska
This trip ended up being exploratory. We badly underestimated the degree of difficulty.
A Grand Canyon Ranger had told us that he had done it on a mountain bike and we were stupid enough to believe him. Perhaps he did do it, but not in one day.
The Gates of Hell?
At 12 miles, the watch showed 12:30. We had started riding at 9:30. We gazed across the plateau and Solitude looked a long ways away. Below us was a side canyon requiring about 600' of up and down one way. We estimated that we had a couple of hours left to get to our destination and calculated between 5 and 8 more grueling miles to negotiate. Coming back would be mostly uphill and a two hour drive out on the maze of back roads was necessary. A projection of our water, day light time, and personal tank capacities netted the correct decision, to turn back and log this one as a tough recon ride. We backed down. We would have to settle for views of the Chuar Valley region and the Painted desert. There would be no dramatic overview of the Colorado River today. It would be unfinished business and we would deal with that later.
We arrived back at the car at quarter to five, somewhat exhausted and fell into our camp chairs for the after adventure cerveza ritual.
The unfinished business was discussed and a future strategy developed. Like Angel Eyes in the Good Bad and the Ugly-we always finish the job.
Next time-
Cooler Temps-in the fall
Take another back road route and try to get within 7 miles of Solitude. Our recon indicated that this is possible.
Get a Navajo permit and camp.
Day hike, Mtn Bike to solitude and return or get a NP permit and backpack in and carry more water.
We stopped in Flag for our traditional dinner at the Beaver Street Brewery and arrived back in Phoenix after midnight.
Thanks to Dingo for driving and to Larry and Keith for being such tough hombres in order to share such a "fun" adventure
Men Behaving Badly
Dingo Dog for constantly saying "Whose idea was this?" along the torturous route. This coming from the guy that absolutely loves this kind of stuff and is in his element while driving the worst back roads known to mankind.
Dingo must have been riding hard because he flew off his bike took a 360, landed on his pack and came up smiling. We let out a big sigh off relief. This was no place for an injury. There is no shade and no water.We were in the middle of no man's land.
After driving to the Cameron Trading Post late Friday night, our group got up early and spent 2 hours on a gnarly Navajo back road in order to ride, carry and walk our bikes for 24+ miles in 90 degree temp at 6000 feet. We each carried in excess of a gallon of liquid and it was not enough. We cached some along the way. Elevation gain/loss was estimated at close to 3000 feet.
Our route was a closed jeep trail across the scrubby, gully, carved erosion surface of the Kaibab formation atop the Coconino plateau. Our destination was Cape Solitude. Now we understand why this promontory was named such by Clarence Dutton because, as he put it, "it stands solitary and alone". The Cape towers above the confluence of the Little Colorado and Colorado rivers.
The bike ride was totally gnarly and bone jarring. Large rock, deep sand, and the heat wore us down. We lost the route several times. When we attempted to take a break under one of the few trees along the way hundreds of ants climbed onto our sorry carcases.
It was a short break.
Little Colorado River Gorge-Navajo Land
Keith the Hawk, Dingo Dan and Larry the Mountain Man from Alaska
This trip ended up being exploratory. We badly underestimated the degree of difficulty.
A Grand Canyon Ranger had told us that he had done it on a mountain bike and we were stupid enough to believe him. Perhaps he did do it, but not in one day.
The Gates of Hell?
At 12 miles, the watch showed 12:30. We had started riding at 9:30. We gazed across the plateau and Solitude looked a long ways away. Below us was a side canyon requiring about 600' of up and down one way. We estimated that we had a couple of hours left to get to our destination and calculated between 5 and 8 more grueling miles to negotiate. Coming back would be mostly uphill and a two hour drive out on the maze of back roads was necessary. A projection of our water, day light time, and personal tank capacities netted the correct decision, to turn back and log this one as a tough recon ride. We backed down. We would have to settle for views of the Chuar Valley region and the Painted desert. There would be no dramatic overview of the Colorado River today. It would be unfinished business and we would deal with that later.
We arrived back at the car at quarter to five, somewhat exhausted and fell into our camp chairs for the after adventure cerveza ritual.
The unfinished business was discussed and a future strategy developed. Like Angel Eyes in the Good Bad and the Ugly-we always finish the job.
Next time-
Cooler Temps-in the fall
Take another back road route and try to get within 7 miles of Solitude. Our recon indicated that this is possible.
Get a Navajo permit and camp.
Day hike, Mtn Bike to solitude and return or get a NP permit and backpack in and carry more water.
We stopped in Flag for our traditional dinner at the Beaver Street Brewery and arrived back in Phoenix after midnight.
Thanks to Dingo for driving and to Larry and Keith for being such tough hombres in order to share such a "fun" adventure
Men Behaving Badly
Dingo Dog for constantly saying "Whose idea was this?" along the torturous route. This coming from the guy that absolutely loves this kind of stuff and is in his element while driving the worst back roads known to mankind.
1/07/2007
Still a Ramblin Man
"Änd the Cowboys ride-Against the wind"
Real quick, for those that wanted feedback on the Bob Seeger concert-He brought the house down at US Air Arena. Everyone was on their feet for two hours. Unlike a lot of old rockers, his voice is as strong as ever. The sax player has been with the Silver Bullet Band since 71 and was unbelievable!
Seeger has not toured for 10 years and missed Phoenix then. He has a new album that has already sold over a million copies.
I rate this concert in my top ten. (Of 473)
Real quick, for those that wanted feedback on the Bob Seeger concert-He brought the house down at US Air Arena. Everyone was on their feet for two hours. Unlike a lot of old rockers, his voice is as strong as ever. The sax player has been with the Silver Bullet Band since 71 and was unbelievable!
Seeger has not toured for 10 years and missed Phoenix then. He has a new album that has already sold over a million copies.
I rate this concert in my top ten. (Of 473)
10/15/2006
Locked in A Gilded Cage
White Bird In a golden cage On a winter's dayIn the rain White birdIn a golden cage Alone
It's a beautiful Day-1967
The "Gilded Cage'- La Paloma Resort in Tucson- (Santa Catalina's in the background)
The leaves blowCross the long black roadTo the darkened skiesIn its rageBut the white birdJust sits in his cageUnknown.
El Lobo Grande was laying on his lawn chair by one of the pools at the La Paloma five star resort in Tucson, accessing his location while Gerry was in the Spa getting a massage.
Lobo wistfully looked out at the distant Santa Catalina's and contemplated escape. He pictured himself romping in the sun and chasing mule deer.
But, with broken ribs and an injured front leg he knew that he would not get far and would be captured and put back into the La Paloma ( the dove) gilded cage. There would be no behaving badly, just good manners.
The Betrayal
You see, Lobo was coerced into going to this resort by his wife Gerry and very good friend The Fabulous Spook who prefer these resorts (gilded cages) to the Wilderness. Perhaps they thought a little relaxation would be good for the wolf. After all, the last few months had been tough ones for the pack.
White bird must flyOr he will dieWhite bird must flyOr he will die
A brief escape into Sabino Canyon
White birdDreams of the aspen treeWith their dying leavesTurning goldBut the white birdJust sits in his cageGrowing old.Highlights of this trip include:
-Dinner at the World Class restaurant Jano's -written up in Bon Apetit
-Shopping, and slamming down Pacificos in Nogales Mexico. We scored a beautiful hand made bench that would not fit into our car.
-Watching the Gold Medal Hockey game played with savage intensity by Finland & Sweden. (Sorry Hannu, --Silver but your Finns were awesome!)
-Having breakfast with the intrepid travelers Bob & Peggy Shea who had just returned from an extended stay in old Mexico.
The sunsets comeThe sunsets goThe clouds Float byAnd The Earth Turns slowAnd the Birds EyesDo always Glow And he must flyhe must flyhe must fly
White bird must flyOr he will dieWhite bird must flyOr he will dieWhite bird must flyOr he will dieWhite bird must fly
Respectfully Submitted
El Lobo H. Grand
It's a beautiful Day-1967
The "Gilded Cage'- La Paloma Resort in Tucson- (Santa Catalina's in the background)
The leaves blowCross the long black roadTo the darkened skiesIn its rageBut the white birdJust sits in his cageUnknown.
El Lobo Grande was laying on his lawn chair by one of the pools at the La Paloma five star resort in Tucson, accessing his location while Gerry was in the Spa getting a massage.
Lobo wistfully looked out at the distant Santa Catalina's and contemplated escape. He pictured himself romping in the sun and chasing mule deer.
But, with broken ribs and an injured front leg he knew that he would not get far and would be captured and put back into the La Paloma ( the dove) gilded cage. There would be no behaving badly, just good manners.
The Betrayal
You see, Lobo was coerced into going to this resort by his wife Gerry and very good friend The Fabulous Spook who prefer these resorts (gilded cages) to the Wilderness. Perhaps they thought a little relaxation would be good for the wolf. After all, the last few months had been tough ones for the pack.
White bird must flyOr he will dieWhite bird must flyOr he will die
A brief escape into Sabino Canyon
White birdDreams of the aspen treeWith their dying leavesTurning goldBut the white birdJust sits in his cageGrowing old.Highlights of this trip include:
-Dinner at the World Class restaurant Jano's -written up in Bon Apetit
-Shopping, and slamming down Pacificos in Nogales Mexico. We scored a beautiful hand made bench that would not fit into our car.
-Watching the Gold Medal Hockey game played with savage intensity by Finland & Sweden. (Sorry Hannu, --Silver but your Finns were awesome!)
-Having breakfast with the intrepid travelers Bob & Peggy Shea who had just returned from an extended stay in old Mexico.
The sunsets comeThe sunsets goThe clouds Float byAnd The Earth Turns slowAnd the Birds EyesDo always Glow And he must flyhe must flyhe must fly
White bird must flyOr he will dieWhite bird must flyOr he will dieWhite bird must flyOr he will dieWhite bird must fly
Respectfully Submitted
El Lobo H. Grand
West Fork-Oak Creek
West Fork of Oak Creek-12 miles roundtrip
Hombres de Canon
Zo
Lobo
Dingo
Jake da Snake
After 7 straight days of taking clients through the desert, it was great to get in a personal trip to one of the most beautiful spots in Arizona.
This canyon runs 12 miles from end to end with 5 really cold deep pools in the upper part that require swimming. Water temperature at this time of year is in the 40's.
Given that, we decided to do the lower end as a Canyoneering "warm up" (a little climbing, some waist high wading) and save the upper end for July when the icy pools are in the 50's and we pack wet suits.
There is a high usage trail on the lower end for four miles before it fades and you enter a narrower section of towering sandstone into the cathedral.
This area is extremely diverse in plant life. Manzanita, prickly pear cactus and agave live on the south slopes, and Douglas and white fir, and ponderosa pines populate the northern exposure.
We saw numerous reptiles (see pictures) indicating a healthy eco system.
Pics by Zo
Towering formations of sandstone-Beautiful topography!
AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
El Lobo Grande surveying the water depth-Have frio!!!
Snaaaaaaaaaaake!!! Common garter
text
Dingo Dan
Reptile soft porn
Meandering up canyon
Hombres behaving Badly
AH COME ON!!!!!!!!! – Jake, after being the recipient of Lobo’s noxious fumes. Lesson learned – NEVER walk behind Lobo.
Lobo – for being on the SOOOOOUUUP for the 10th time this (calendar) year.
Jake, Dingo & Zo – for stopping at McDonalds to get breakfast sandwiches, while poor Lobo’s stomach worked on the peas he had for breakfast.
Jake – for taking after his father and almost making a poor garter snake pass out after the snake’s tongue caught a whiff of Jake’s semi-processed breakfast sandwich.
Lobo & Jake – for being less than fearless and deciding to wait while the fearless Dingo & Zo went on.
Dingo – for telling the group we needed to purchase a Red Rock pass and then having to pay the Park Service another fee because we DIDN’T need the Red Rock pass for this hike. Also for wearing the same "Red Dirt" shirt for the 512th straight time!
Zo – for depriving Lobo of his usual after hike nap by making Lobo drive home because Zo had too many post hike beers with Dingo.
Lobo & Jake – for showing too much matching genetics when they were both picking at their toe nails while Dingo & Zo stared entranced as if watching the Nature channel.
Hombres de Canon
Zo
Lobo
Dingo
Jake da Snake
After 7 straight days of taking clients through the desert, it was great to get in a personal trip to one of the most beautiful spots in Arizona.
This canyon runs 12 miles from end to end with 5 really cold deep pools in the upper part that require swimming. Water temperature at this time of year is in the 40's.
Given that, we decided to do the lower end as a Canyoneering "warm up" (a little climbing, some waist high wading) and save the upper end for July when the icy pools are in the 50's and we pack wet suits.
There is a high usage trail on the lower end for four miles before it fades and you enter a narrower section of towering sandstone into the cathedral.
This area is extremely diverse in plant life. Manzanita, prickly pear cactus and agave live on the south slopes, and Douglas and white fir, and ponderosa pines populate the northern exposure.
We saw numerous reptiles (see pictures) indicating a healthy eco system.
Pics by Zo
Towering formations of sandstone-Beautiful topography!
AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
El Lobo Grande surveying the water depth-Have frio!!!
Snaaaaaaaaaaake!!! Common garter
text
Dingo Dan
Reptile soft porn
Meandering up canyon
Hombres behaving Badly
AH COME ON!!!!!!!!! – Jake, after being the recipient of Lobo’s noxious fumes. Lesson learned – NEVER walk behind Lobo.
Lobo – for being on the SOOOOOUUUP for the 10th time this (calendar) year.
Jake, Dingo & Zo – for stopping at McDonalds to get breakfast sandwiches, while poor Lobo’s stomach worked on the peas he had for breakfast.
Jake – for taking after his father and almost making a poor garter snake pass out after the snake’s tongue caught a whiff of Jake’s semi-processed breakfast sandwich.
Lobo & Jake – for being less than fearless and deciding to wait while the fearless Dingo & Zo went on.
Dingo – for telling the group we needed to purchase a Red Rock pass and then having to pay the Park Service another fee because we DIDN’T need the Red Rock pass for this hike. Also for wearing the same "Red Dirt" shirt for the 512th straight time!
Zo – for depriving Lobo of his usual after hike nap by making Lobo drive home because Zo had too many post hike beers with Dingo.
Lobo & Jake – for showing too much matching genetics when they were both picking at their toe nails while Dingo & Zo stared entranced as if watching the Nature channel.
San Carlos
Poncho was a bandit boy, his horse was fast as polished steelHe wore his gun outside his pants, for all the honest world to feelPoncho met his match, you know, on the deserts down in MexicoNobody heard his dyin' word, but that's the way it goes
Pancho & Lefty -Willie Nelson
This is my favorite time of year, the combination of great weather, spring training, and the NCAA Basketball tourney is hard to beat.
However-San Carlos Mexico played a trump card.
Road Trip!
Hombres de Camino
El Lobo H. Grande (El Bueno)
Jacobo la Serpiente (El Barato)
Zo (El Boracho)
We had a late start Friday evening (See men behaving badly section) and arrived in Nogales around 9:30 and hustled over the border to our favorite Nogales' restaurant-La Roca. As usual, the comida was excellent and the Pacificos went down very smooth. I was able to keep the boys out of the strip clubs and we hit the rack before midnight.
We crossed the border early the next morning and had a smooth 4 hour 250 mile drive on a well maintained 4 lane divided highway.
Our role as potential foreign investors in Mexico real estate was to perform due diligence and gather as much information as possible on San Carlos.
We had already spent many hours researching the area in preparation. Our amigos Mooseman and Peggy had recently spent much time in San Carlos and loved the area and the available activities of tennis, snorkeling, diving, mountain biking, clamming, kayaking, fishing, boating/sailing and wildlife viewing. There is a very nice golf course there too, for those that like to abuse themselves with that challenging game.
There are two international airports within 1 1/2 hours of San Carlos. One is 8 miles south in Guaymas and the other in Hermosillo-1 1/2 hours away. You can take a ferry from Guaymas to the Baja.
When we arrived we followed directions to Rich's abode. Rich retired from American Express last year and is a very happy camper, living the life of Jimmy Buffet. Having a 27 year old beautiful Mexican girl friend has not hurt his outlook on the current world situation. MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM
Rich took us on a very interesting mini-tour (see men behaving badly section)
El Lobo H. Grande with Tetas de Cabra in the background (goat's tits)
For years, San Carlos has been a well kept secret. We were blown away by the raw natural beauty. The mountains, beaches, and desert are stunning.
The bay is one of the most beautiful views that I have ever seen, rivaling San Diego.
El Lobo Grande Y Jacobo at the seawall of Bahia Delfin Condominios
We dropped Rich off and enjoyed an excellent lunch before spending the afternoon looking at properties with Karen, our Casa de Amigos Realtor.
She did a great job, and we got an excellent feel for the playing field and the rules of engagement for buying property in Mexico's restricted zone.
Phase 1 of Bahia Delfin Condominios
The evening was spent at the local hangout called "Froggys'. Nightlife in San Carlos can be quite raucous on a Saturday night. (snowbird's gone wild, see men behaving badly section)
We stayed in a modest but very clean and reasonable motel by the beach. This was luxury when considering where we have stayed in Latin countries.
The following morning we met with our realtor and had a smooth drive back until we hit the border. Here, we suffered through a two hour wait to get through. It sucked, but we kept ourselves amused and found the mini dramas that unfolded quite entertaining. (brutal merging into one lane tactics and cars going the wrong way-(see men behaving badly section)
We finally crossed the border in a fierce snowstorm at 2000', all part of the adventure, but we won't cross back on a Sunday again.
Thanks to Zo for again being the Road warrior and driving the whole way. Thanks to Gerry for giving me a weekend pass with the house in a mess due to remodeling. Thanks to Jacobo for the time we shared.
This whirlwind tour was fun and productive. Es Verdad!
Men Behaving Badly
Zo and Jake for delaying departure by getting called into El Hefe's office (Reeechard) late Friday afternoon and getting their asses chewed out.
Zo for further delaying departure and making us go back to his place to pick up his passport. (He did gain a little redemption by bringing out ½ pound of Hershey's w/ almonds and devils food snack cakes.)
Retired Rich for continuously asking while touring the trio around San Carlos if we had time for a beer stop and borracho Zo for always responding yes.
Retired Rich for setting a bad example for Zo by retiring early, spending his days drinking and getting himself a girlfriend half his age.
Jacobo for stinking Zo’s vehicle with foul odors that still linger (and stinking up every other place visited on the trip).
Zo for once again thinking he left his cell phone at the motel when it was under his seat.
Security guard at the motel for extracting a tip from Lobo because he checked out at the desk and not with him.
Rowdy spring breakers in the room next door for waking the trio at 3 am and then having to hear a girl puking 2 hours later.
Waiter at the restaurant in San Carlos for telling Lobo he had eaten too many chips with salsa before his meal arrived.
70ish Arctic Hare at Froggys for dancing with all the women in the joint and then falling on his back while executing his signature dance move.
Band at Froggys for making CCR covers half of their set.
Barato Jake for always being the last person to get his wallet out.
Lobo for making Zo and Jake endure oldies from his ipod.
Zo for always waiting till the gas tank gets to empty before filling up and having to coast down a hill in the snow at the border crossing so the trio wouldn't run out of gas.
ASSHOLES who tried to cut in line at the border crossing.
Lobo for going out to take a pee in between cars while waiting to cross the border.
Lobo for making Jake&Zo risk pneumonia and walk across the border in a snow storm to look for a bench maker whose shop turned out to be CLOSED.
Lupe the bench maker for closing his shop.
Mooseman for wanting a finders fee of one free month's rent at our beautiful new beach front condominium. Lo siento, there is not enough room, you can sleep outside in a tent like I did in the snow at Joshua Tree! Just kidding, of course.
Pancho & Lefty -Willie Nelson
This is my favorite time of year, the combination of great weather, spring training, and the NCAA Basketball tourney is hard to beat.
However-San Carlos Mexico played a trump card.
Road Trip!
Hombres de Camino
El Lobo H. Grande (El Bueno)
Jacobo la Serpiente (El Barato)
Zo (El Boracho)
We had a late start Friday evening (See men behaving badly section) and arrived in Nogales around 9:30 and hustled over the border to our favorite Nogales' restaurant-La Roca. As usual, the comida was excellent and the Pacificos went down very smooth. I was able to keep the boys out of the strip clubs and we hit the rack before midnight.
We crossed the border early the next morning and had a smooth 4 hour 250 mile drive on a well maintained 4 lane divided highway.
Our role as potential foreign investors in Mexico real estate was to perform due diligence and gather as much information as possible on San Carlos.
We had already spent many hours researching the area in preparation. Our amigos Mooseman and Peggy had recently spent much time in San Carlos and loved the area and the available activities of tennis, snorkeling, diving, mountain biking, clamming, kayaking, fishing, boating/sailing and wildlife viewing. There is a very nice golf course there too, for those that like to abuse themselves with that challenging game.
There are two international airports within 1 1/2 hours of San Carlos. One is 8 miles south in Guaymas and the other in Hermosillo-1 1/2 hours away. You can take a ferry from Guaymas to the Baja.
When we arrived we followed directions to Rich's abode. Rich retired from American Express last year and is a very happy camper, living the life of Jimmy Buffet. Having a 27 year old beautiful Mexican girl friend has not hurt his outlook on the current world situation. MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM
Rich took us on a very interesting mini-tour (see men behaving badly section)
El Lobo H. Grande with Tetas de Cabra in the background (goat's tits)
For years, San Carlos has been a well kept secret. We were blown away by the raw natural beauty. The mountains, beaches, and desert are stunning.
The bay is one of the most beautiful views that I have ever seen, rivaling San Diego.
El Lobo Grande Y Jacobo at the seawall of Bahia Delfin Condominios
We dropped Rich off and enjoyed an excellent lunch before spending the afternoon looking at properties with Karen, our Casa de Amigos Realtor.
She did a great job, and we got an excellent feel for the playing field and the rules of engagement for buying property in Mexico's restricted zone.
Phase 1 of Bahia Delfin Condominios
The evening was spent at the local hangout called "Froggys'. Nightlife in San Carlos can be quite raucous on a Saturday night. (snowbird's gone wild, see men behaving badly section)
We stayed in a modest but very clean and reasonable motel by the beach. This was luxury when considering where we have stayed in Latin countries.
The following morning we met with our realtor and had a smooth drive back until we hit the border. Here, we suffered through a two hour wait to get through. It sucked, but we kept ourselves amused and found the mini dramas that unfolded quite entertaining. (brutal merging into one lane tactics and cars going the wrong way-(see men behaving badly section)
We finally crossed the border in a fierce snowstorm at 2000', all part of the adventure, but we won't cross back on a Sunday again.
Thanks to Zo for again being the Road warrior and driving the whole way. Thanks to Gerry for giving me a weekend pass with the house in a mess due to remodeling. Thanks to Jacobo for the time we shared.
This whirlwind tour was fun and productive. Es Verdad!
Men Behaving Badly
Zo and Jake for delaying departure by getting called into El Hefe's office (Reeechard) late Friday afternoon and getting their asses chewed out.
Zo for further delaying departure and making us go back to his place to pick up his passport. (He did gain a little redemption by bringing out ½ pound of Hershey's w/ almonds and devils food snack cakes.)
Retired Rich for continuously asking while touring the trio around San Carlos if we had time for a beer stop and borracho Zo for always responding yes.
Retired Rich for setting a bad example for Zo by retiring early, spending his days drinking and getting himself a girlfriend half his age.
Jacobo for stinking Zo’s vehicle with foul odors that still linger (and stinking up every other place visited on the trip).
Zo for once again thinking he left his cell phone at the motel when it was under his seat.
Security guard at the motel for extracting a tip from Lobo because he checked out at the desk and not with him.
Rowdy spring breakers in the room next door for waking the trio at 3 am and then having to hear a girl puking 2 hours later.
Waiter at the restaurant in San Carlos for telling Lobo he had eaten too many chips with salsa before his meal arrived.
70ish Arctic Hare at Froggys for dancing with all the women in the joint and then falling on his back while executing his signature dance move.
Band at Froggys for making CCR covers half of their set.
Barato Jake for always being the last person to get his wallet out.
Lobo for making Zo and Jake endure oldies from his ipod.
Zo for always waiting till the gas tank gets to empty before filling up and having to coast down a hill in the snow at the border crossing so the trio wouldn't run out of gas.
ASSHOLES who tried to cut in line at the border crossing.
Lobo for going out to take a pee in between cars while waiting to cross the border.
Lobo for making Jake&Zo risk pneumonia and walk across the border in a snow storm to look for a bench maker whose shop turned out to be CLOSED.
Lupe the bench maker for closing his shop.
Mooseman for wanting a finders fee of one free month's rent at our beautiful new beach front condominium. Lo siento, there is not enough room, you can sleep outside in a tent like I did in the snow at Joshua Tree! Just kidding, of course.
Mary Wilson
Through the Mirror of My Mind-Time after Time-"Reflections Of the way life used to be"
Mary Wilson-Concert # 462
Fort McDowell Casino -May 14-2006
Mary Wilson put on a dynamite show last night. At 62 years young she looks great and kept the sold out crowd of ancient baby boomers on their feet for an hour and a half.
Mary co-founded one of the most successful female groups-The Supreme's.
Since then, Wilson has gone on to be a part of dozens of hit records, has written a best-selling autobiography, performed on stage and screen, lectured and toured the world.
The Supreme's has an unprecedented 12 number 1 hits including “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” “Come See About Me” and “Stop, In The Name Of Love,” The Supreme's set the precedent for super group success.
In 1988 they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.
You can win a free Bus Trip there by participating in the FabulousSpooooooook/Great Grandee Oldies contest.
In 1970 Mary kept the Supreme's going after Diana Ross and Florence Ballard left the group. She paired with Jean Terrell and Cindy Birdsong to form The New Supreme's, racking up three top 10 hits “Up The Ladder To The Roof”, “Stoned Love”, and “River Deep, Mountain High”(with the Four Tops)
Mary went through all the hits and got the"girls" on stage numerous times to let it all hang out and shake their booties. It was really fun, a great show.
Many Super Groups are reuniting for perhaps one last ride and a lot of dough. There exists quite a rift between Mary and Diana Ross. Will it be reconciled? From my perspective-Screw Diana Ross, I would rather see Mary any day!!
Men and Women Behaving Badly
-El Lobo Grande for wasting away again in Margaritaville
-The Hotsie Broad (Cat woman) in the sexy striped top and her friend that started a fight with a guy with one leg (in a wheelchair) and his family. Lobo, the peacemaker attempted to calm all down. The guy with one leg kept screaming "If she hits my wife again I'm going to kill her!"
When Lobo requested that Cat woman should perhaps "Chill out" she tried to scratch his face with her long nails.
Peace was eventually restored after lengthy negotiation.
-The Security Guards whom were too afraid of Cat woman to get involved.
Respectfully Submitted
El Lobo H. Grande
Mary Wilson-Concert # 462
Fort McDowell Casino -May 14-2006
Mary Wilson put on a dynamite show last night. At 62 years young she looks great and kept the sold out crowd of ancient baby boomers on their feet for an hour and a half.
Mary co-founded one of the most successful female groups-The Supreme's.
Since then, Wilson has gone on to be a part of dozens of hit records, has written a best-selling autobiography, performed on stage and screen, lectured and toured the world.
The Supreme's has an unprecedented 12 number 1 hits including “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” “Come See About Me” and “Stop, In The Name Of Love,” The Supreme's set the precedent for super group success.
In 1988 they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.
You can win a free Bus Trip there by participating in the FabulousSpooooooook/Great Grandee Oldies contest.
In 1970 Mary kept the Supreme's going after Diana Ross and Florence Ballard left the group. She paired with Jean Terrell and Cindy Birdsong to form The New Supreme's, racking up three top 10 hits “Up The Ladder To The Roof”, “Stoned Love”, and “River Deep, Mountain High”(with the Four Tops)
Mary went through all the hits and got the"girls" on stage numerous times to let it all hang out and shake their booties. It was really fun, a great show.
Many Super Groups are reuniting for perhaps one last ride and a lot of dough. There exists quite a rift between Mary and Diana Ross. Will it be reconciled? From my perspective-Screw Diana Ross, I would rather see Mary any day!!
Men and Women Behaving Badly
-El Lobo Grande for wasting away again in Margaritaville
-The Hotsie Broad (Cat woman) in the sexy striped top and her friend that started a fight with a guy with one leg (in a wheelchair) and his family. Lobo, the peacemaker attempted to calm all down. The guy with one leg kept screaming "If she hits my wife again I'm going to kill her!"
When Lobo requested that Cat woman should perhaps "Chill out" she tried to scratch his face with her long nails.
Peace was eventually restored after lengthy negotiation.
-The Security Guards whom were too afraid of Cat woman to get involved.
Respectfully Submitted
El Lobo H. Grande
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)