ABRA MOORE: Taking Chances
Presence of Mind: This is the first piece of Art using Abra Moore
that Wesley created.
that Wesley created.
Hippie Jerry poses
Liar's Club T-Shirt
Liar's Club T-Shirt
| Journal Update/Monday/Feb.20, 2006 Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment! If your checking out past journal entrees pages 1 and 2 be sure to start from the bottom up to receive in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view. If you're already caught up on my past entrees and pics Enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every update!!! Main Page: When In Rome/The Promise Journal 1 Music Selection: Massive Attack/Teardrop (J-1 page and Music Selection dedicated to G.H. /JES CHILL'N) Journal 2 Music Selection: Romeo Void/I Might Like You Better (If We Slept Together) Journal 3 Music Selection: Abra Moore/Trip On Love Hoi Hoi, I hear old man winter hit Texas this past weekend. I remember what it’s like when you’re having a really mild winter there, hardly a cold day and BOOM (usually the month of February) it hit’s. That reminder, winter isn’t over with just yet and just when you thought it was safe to do some gardening. It’s been above freezing here this past week but still mostly wet and cold (a few tease moments here and there, also forgetting it’s only February). I’m so ready for spring. Lay it on me baby! I am definitely ready to be wearing less clothing. I’m sure your little cold spell that’s now colder than here in Holland will soon pass and complaining about the heat will be what I’m wishing for here still in March and April. I’m finally going to Italy. March 1-7! It’s one of the biggest adventures yet and I’m going it solo. It’s a bit scary (in that way of feeling like a little boy going off to venture) but it should be a rewarding feeling. I arrive in Rome for a couple days before heading to the more remote area of Vibo Valentia, Calabria. I’ll be staying at the beach side city of Pizzo (population is about 9000). Somewhere in the 3 days I will be here I will go to Simbario (population 1,130). http://www.cogalmonteporo. net/GastronomiaVV/inglese/itinenogastrVV/index/ricettivita/comuni/comuni/simbario/SIMBARIO.htm Here is where the heritage of my great-grandparents of Italian decent comes from, the Tassone’s and Bertucci’s. I am the first in my family to go back to this very remote town since they arrived at Ellis Island before the turn of the century. I still have no idea how I’ll be getting myself to Simbario from Pizzo but it’s the closest place I could find accommodations online (about 40 km.) and finding those accommodations weren’t an easy task. The area is not commonly frequented by tourists other than the Italians themselves. The town of Pizzo looks very interesting for exploring and boasts some of the best ice cream in the world. You know being the ice cream HO that I am I will be checking out about as many varieties as possible, along w/ some real Italian pizza and other Italian goodies. Yumm!!! I can’t wait. I celebrated my first version of a Dutch Birthday on Friday w/ the Birthday Boy Ralph and close friends. It was a quiet intimate evening of 6 drinking several beers, sitting around listening to them speak in Dutch (when they would remember they took the time to translate some important key words for me to help keep up w/ their conversation), and watching an HBO copy of Diva Las Vegas starring Bette Midler. I’ve never experienced anyone who was celebrating their own birthday to play host at their own gathering. Ralph made sure everyone’s drink was full and some great munchies kept in front of our faces the whole entire evening. He’s certainly a great host (I don’t remember ever having to get up but to take a piss) I feel quite honored to have been invited to this gathering being that the Dutch usually celebrate this and other certain holidays within a very tight knit of family and close friends. This month and next are certainly birthday months. It’s hard for me to keep up. Thanks again to all of you who have given me that information at the birthday reminder link I sent a few months ago. There is no way in hell I’m about to remember birthdays anymore. I know way too many people and well, the cobwebs of my brain have gotten pretty thick. Heather’s birthday is today (in case you needed a reminder). She is off work for most of the day and took Alex out of school to celebrate it with her (I don’t ever remember my mom allowing me a day off to celebrate her birthday). Lucky kid! And to my Dutch friends…don’t be expecting me to be hosting any kind of birthday party for myself. No way, it’s my birthday and I want to be wined and dined with lots of attention over the span of…well, the whole time it’s Aries birthdays of course. Bring it on! All of the pics with this journal update (with the exception of the Liar’s Club model) along with the links to some more of her works, are the paintings of Dina…the mother of my good friend Henri. I was anxious to post them even though I haven’t yet received all the info on the pieces he sent. She’ll get a proper introduction and description just as soon as I receive and pass on the information to Wesley for posting. I’ll try and get that information out before I leave for Italy. My favorite one is of the woman (in shades of red) dancing. This is the piece I want a copy of for myself. This piece, like all her other works I’ve seen grab my attention. Go see why for yourself. In closing, I leave you now, to your own ventures for the day. Enjoy this site at your own convenience (you know, those times you’re so bored at work that you’re surfing the web anyway on those sites you really shouldn’t be on at work) where you might instead be reading up on what’s happening here or there for that quiz I’m giving all of you soon. Stay tuned for the next adventure(s), Coming Soon…to a Theater or Cinema near you (or web pages). Peace and Love, Jes |
"A Few Good Men" (Some Close Friend's I've made here).
Feb.6, 2006
Music reflects my Moods...and they vary from Moment to Moment! If you’re checking out past journal entry’s pages 1 and
2 be sure to start from the bottom up to receive in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view.
If you’re already caught up on my past entries and pics enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every
update!!!
Main Page: Abra Moore/I Do
Journal 1 Music Selection: Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains/Buckethead (Journal 1 page and Music Selection
dedicated to G.H. /JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Music Selection: B-52's/Butterbean
HOI,
From a few tease spring like sunny days to colder than a witches brew most of last week (w/ several light snowfalls and
barely above freezing), today is overcast, w/ temperatures again to around 4 degrees (c).
I'm sitting here listening to some Abra Moore and thinking back over the events of my weekend. It was busy, but the good
kind of busy. It's like having a full dance card suddenly. What's different now is the establishment of several different
friendships and the options that come along with that. Check out the pics of the friends I have been spending most of my
quality time with here lately (besides Heather and Alex, of course) above in this journal entry.
You know that feeling you get when Sunday rolls around and you can't seem to think of anything but having to go back to
work on Monday the whole entire day (that you kind of forget you still have all of Sunday to enjoy)?
That's about the only way I know how to describe the feelings I've had lately about the ending of this chapter seemingly
closer and the time drawing nearer for me to go back to the States. Feeling this way sort of takes me out of the moment.
Well, at least I'm aware of it.
I've got to stop thinking so much and just enjoy the time I have left here. Savor every quality moment and in the process,
keeping every door open that allows me the opportunity to keep right on enjoying my life. It’s always easier said than
done.
Like I can always go back to Austin, I haven't closed any doors here in Holland if I so desire to come back (now taking
applications for any Dutch out there viewing this that want to marry me and make me a permanent resident). LOL...I cook
and I clean :)
I'm not ready to go back to Austin at this point (to live), though I will have to go back to deal with my condo (find other
tenant or sale) and the legal issues I left behind concerning my balcony that need to be faced.
After speaking more in detail w/ my friend Michael in Atlanta just last week, it's feeling like my next opportunity will be
there, helping him as promised to get the food establishment part of his new business up and performing. I can't make
any promises as to how long or how much I will like Atlanta. That's hard to predict at this point. And there are fears
associated with going out and putting my stuff out on a menu.
But what the hell right? I know I am quite capable of doing the job. I managed to do a lot of 1st's relating to my
cooking/baking and associated skills that go along with it pretty much now for the past 10 years or so. I remember being
scared shitless in accepting the responsibilities I took on at Ruta Maya.
Fact is though; I faced those fears and learned from it. So....the fears associated with moving to Atlanta and being a part
of the success of my friend's business is something I feel I must endure in order to achieve what I desire. There's an
independence I've found for myself in the choices I've made thus far. That's the feeling that will simply get me thru this
one. But....no closed doors! I think instead many open new ones instead.
I'd definitely consider coming back to Europe especially now having made some kind of foundation here (and purchasing
a decent winter coat). I mean, hmmm...why the hell not. And no worries, I will be back in Austin for a stint before Atlanta.
I'm ONLY here another 4 months and the last 8 have passed by pretty damn quickly. I just need to continue making the
most of my time I have left here.
If only I could find enough time in my life to do all I want to do and to see all I want to see. So I do the next best thing I
guess and do and see what's in front of me as it comes.
With time running out on this stint here in The Netherlands I am trying real hard not to overwhelm myself with all I have yet
to experience.
Madrid is indefinitely put on the back burner due to my friend Chad having to go back to the States to deal w/ his family
crises. I think the trip I feel the need to do most at this point is the one to Italy. I'm hoping to go at the end of this
month/beginning of next for a few days if it works itself out. More on that as it develops.
Oh yeah, exciting news....I received baking soda from a friend in the States...very significant in baking here since it can
not be found. I've already made a couple big batches of Snicker doodles (and Snicker doodle Banana Pudding). I can't
believe how much I missed making Snicker doodles.
I do still intend in perfecting the recipe to include some of Holland's finest and creating the "Space doodle" before I leave
the country. Now with plenty of... (Baking Soda) I will be able to explore that ;) Stay tuned!
To your health...Peace and Love, Jes
P.S. Don't forget to check out the link (above) for a one of a kind unique t-shirt my step dad created. Remember it's a
good cause.
Music reflects my Moods...and they vary from Moment to Moment! If you’re checking out past journal entry’s pages 1 and
2 be sure to start from the bottom up to receive in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view.
If you’re already caught up on my past entries and pics enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every
update!!!
Main Page: Abra Moore/I Do
Journal 1 Music Selection: Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains/Buckethead (Journal 1 page and Music Selection
dedicated to G.H. /JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Music Selection: B-52's/Butterbean
HOI,
From a few tease spring like sunny days to colder than a witches brew most of last week (w/ several light snowfalls and
barely above freezing), today is overcast, w/ temperatures again to around 4 degrees (c).
I'm sitting here listening to some Abra Moore and thinking back over the events of my weekend. It was busy, but the good
kind of busy. It's like having a full dance card suddenly. What's different now is the establishment of several different
friendships and the options that come along with that. Check out the pics of the friends I have been spending most of my
quality time with here lately (besides Heather and Alex, of course) above in this journal entry.
You know that feeling you get when Sunday rolls around and you can't seem to think of anything but having to go back to
work on Monday the whole entire day (that you kind of forget you still have all of Sunday to enjoy)?
That's about the only way I know how to describe the feelings I've had lately about the ending of this chapter seemingly
closer and the time drawing nearer for me to go back to the States. Feeling this way sort of takes me out of the moment.
Well, at least I'm aware of it.
I've got to stop thinking so much and just enjoy the time I have left here. Savor every quality moment and in the process,
keeping every door open that allows me the opportunity to keep right on enjoying my life. It’s always easier said than
done.
Like I can always go back to Austin, I haven't closed any doors here in Holland if I so desire to come back (now taking
applications for any Dutch out there viewing this that want to marry me and make me a permanent resident). LOL...I cook
and I clean :)
I'm not ready to go back to Austin at this point (to live), though I will have to go back to deal with my condo (find other
tenant or sale) and the legal issues I left behind concerning my balcony that need to be faced.
After speaking more in detail w/ my friend Michael in Atlanta just last week, it's feeling like my next opportunity will be
there, helping him as promised to get the food establishment part of his new business up and performing. I can't make
any promises as to how long or how much I will like Atlanta. That's hard to predict at this point. And there are fears
associated with going out and putting my stuff out on a menu.
But what the hell right? I know I am quite capable of doing the job. I managed to do a lot of 1st's relating to my
cooking/baking and associated skills that go along with it pretty much now for the past 10 years or so. I remember being
scared shitless in accepting the responsibilities I took on at Ruta Maya.
Fact is though; I faced those fears and learned from it. So....the fears associated with moving to Atlanta and being a part
of the success of my friend's business is something I feel I must endure in order to achieve what I desire. There's an
independence I've found for myself in the choices I've made thus far. That's the feeling that will simply get me thru this
one. But....no closed doors! I think instead many open new ones instead.
I'd definitely consider coming back to Europe especially now having made some kind of foundation here (and purchasing
a decent winter coat). I mean, hmmm...why the hell not. And no worries, I will be back in Austin for a stint before Atlanta.
I'm ONLY here another 4 months and the last 8 have passed by pretty damn quickly. I just need to continue making the
most of my time I have left here.
If only I could find enough time in my life to do all I want to do and to see all I want to see. So I do the next best thing I
guess and do and see what's in front of me as it comes.
With time running out on this stint here in The Netherlands I am trying real hard not to overwhelm myself with all I have yet
to experience.
Madrid is indefinitely put on the back burner due to my friend Chad having to go back to the States to deal w/ his family
crises. I think the trip I feel the need to do most at this point is the one to Italy. I'm hoping to go at the end of this
month/beginning of next for a few days if it works itself out. More on that as it develops.
Oh yeah, exciting news....I received baking soda from a friend in the States...very significant in baking here since it can
not be found. I've already made a couple big batches of Snicker doodles (and Snicker doodle Banana Pudding). I can't
believe how much I missed making Snicker doodles.
I do still intend in perfecting the recipe to include some of Holland's finest and creating the "Space doodle" before I leave
the country. Now with plenty of... (Baking Soda) I will be able to explore that ;) Stay tuned!
To your health...Peace and Love, Jes
P.S. Don't forget to check out the link (above) for a one of a kind unique t-shirt my step dad created. Remember it's a
good cause.
Friday Jan. 20th, 2006
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment! If your checking out past journal entrys
pages 1 and 2 be sure to start from the bottom up to recieve in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view.
If your'e already caught up on my past entrys and pics Enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every
update!!!
Main Page: Keeps My Body Warm/Abra Moore
Journal 1 Music Selection: The Lover/Medeski, Martin and Wood (Journal 1 page and Music Selection dedicated to
G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Music Selection: Fumbling Towards Ecstacy/Sarah McLachlan
Groeten (Greetings),
I'm really impressed w/ the pic I posted on this update. Wesley's combination of both worlds w/ Jef's great eye here in
Holland (see link for more pics on his website) and the pic of Abra. For me, it captures both my world here and there and
brings it all together into this one beautiful piece I want to share with my friends.
Staying busy on this end. Heather's getting ready to take off on a week long buisness trip to Shanghai today (I tried to get
her to take me along as her personal anything) and Alex and I here to fend for ourselves.
I was planning on a few days in Madrid when she get's back, to finally see my friend Chad, who left Austin about the same
time I did and whom I missed during my trip to Barcelona. The trip has been postponed until he gets back from The States.
I'm looking forward to seeing him and his new life there and of course the oppurtunity to a 2nd trip to Spain. It's become
very important to me to experience the cultures of my ancestory.
I'm also planning a trip to Italy at some point to Calabria (and wherever else time and cashflow will allow me). The main
goal however, is to get to the Provice of Vibo, Valentia in Calabria to the village of Simbario. This small area of Italy is
where my great grandparents come from on my mom's side before arriving at Ellis Island to seek (I assume) a better life in
the so called "Promised Land". I wonder if they ever felt like they found what they were looking for? I'm certainly interested
in seeing what they left behind.
And hell yeah, it's still my goal to make it back to Greece before I leave Europe. Perhaps my new friends here and some of
you might like to join. Seriously! The last time I went (damn hard to believe it's already been going on 4 years) w/ my
friend Jay we had researched on some ideas and found that if we could get at least 10 of our friends to go with, that we
could rent our own boat/w crew and set our own course in island hopping. How kewl is that? We did the math...with 10 or
more of our friends, our accomodations and meals cooked by our crew on the boat was actually cheaper than a solo trip
paying for all this w/out the convinience of going to and staying wherever we desired.
It's just an idea and sort of a pipe dream of mine to do at some point w/ 10 of my best friends. Most of what happens in my
life starts out as some of those ideas and pipe dreams, so it's not an out of reach goal to have. It's certainly an Aries trait
I'm happy to have. It's certainly allowed me some of the greatest adventures I've had in life. And they just don't seem to
quit happening. I certainly hope to stay that way until I die.
I was fortunate enough to have both sets of grandparents and other great older role models to influence my life in these
ways, I think. In the great words of my dear friend Ditha (who has lived life in ways some of us only dream of), "Life begins
at 40" She told me this when I was still in my 20's and I had NO CLUE what the hell she was talking about then.
Seems Heather and I both are having a bit of our own seperate adventures here (you'll have to read between the lines on
that one as this website is not an appropriate place to post those adventures). Let's just say it helps w/ the big smile on my
face :) She's got one too (damn big smile).
LOL, I feel fortunate to have the oppurtunities laid out in front of me. Real lucky! Let's just say...life isn't over at 40 in no
way whatsoever. Ditha...you were so right! I don't even question why anymore....it's in taking the oppurtunities that are
right here in front of me and experiencing them. WOW! Kinda leaves me breathless actually. Just saying that you don't
have to sell yourself short (I'm telling myself this).
Check out my music selections on all 3 pages....always reflecting moods. Music and words both w/ much significance to
those that understand and appreciate music as we do. I continue to live life as many adventures seeking it's meaning and
purpose it seems, always (that's the fun of it most of the time). Everytime I think I've got it all figured out...it just changes all
over again!
Like thinking I can live here in Holland for a whole year where dogs shit freely all over the place...thinking I just maybe
might get thru it w/out stepping in any. HA...it happened to me one day out of the blue picking up Alex from school. I let my
guard down for one second....and well, that's all it took. Stay tuned for the next adventure (s).
To your
health...peace and love, Jes
P.S. Check out this link all. http://www.cafepress.com/lynnltd My stepdad Warren came up w/ this design you
may remember I posted on a previous journal entry on a shirt. If he sells enough of them he and my mom will
be able to afford a trip out to see me. It's a good cause and a great design.
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment! If your checking out past journal entrys
pages 1 and 2 be sure to start from the bottom up to recieve in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view.
If your'e already caught up on my past entrys and pics Enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every
update!!!
Main Page: Keeps My Body Warm/Abra Moore
Journal 1 Music Selection: The Lover/Medeski, Martin and Wood (Journal 1 page and Music Selection dedicated to
G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Music Selection: Fumbling Towards Ecstacy/Sarah McLachlan
Groeten (Greetings),
I'm really impressed w/ the pic I posted on this update. Wesley's combination of both worlds w/ Jef's great eye here in
Holland (see link for more pics on his website) and the pic of Abra. For me, it captures both my world here and there and
brings it all together into this one beautiful piece I want to share with my friends.
Staying busy on this end. Heather's getting ready to take off on a week long buisness trip to Shanghai today (I tried to get
her to take me along as her personal anything) and Alex and I here to fend for ourselves.
I was planning on a few days in Madrid when she get's back, to finally see my friend Chad, who left Austin about the same
time I did and whom I missed during my trip to Barcelona. The trip has been postponed until he gets back from The States.
I'm looking forward to seeing him and his new life there and of course the oppurtunity to a 2nd trip to Spain. It's become
very important to me to experience the cultures of my ancestory.
I'm also planning a trip to Italy at some point to Calabria (and wherever else time and cashflow will allow me). The main
goal however, is to get to the Provice of Vibo, Valentia in Calabria to the village of Simbario. This small area of Italy is
where my great grandparents come from on my mom's side before arriving at Ellis Island to seek (I assume) a better life in
the so called "Promised Land". I wonder if they ever felt like they found what they were looking for? I'm certainly interested
in seeing what they left behind.
And hell yeah, it's still my goal to make it back to Greece before I leave Europe. Perhaps my new friends here and some of
you might like to join. Seriously! The last time I went (damn hard to believe it's already been going on 4 years) w/ my
friend Jay we had researched on some ideas and found that if we could get at least 10 of our friends to go with, that we
could rent our own boat/w crew and set our own course in island hopping. How kewl is that? We did the math...with 10 or
more of our friends, our accomodations and meals cooked by our crew on the boat was actually cheaper than a solo trip
paying for all this w/out the convinience of going to and staying wherever we desired.
It's just an idea and sort of a pipe dream of mine to do at some point w/ 10 of my best friends. Most of what happens in my
life starts out as some of those ideas and pipe dreams, so it's not an out of reach goal to have. It's certainly an Aries trait
I'm happy to have. It's certainly allowed me some of the greatest adventures I've had in life. And they just don't seem to
quit happening. I certainly hope to stay that way until I die.
I was fortunate enough to have both sets of grandparents and other great older role models to influence my life in these
ways, I think. In the great words of my dear friend Ditha (who has lived life in ways some of us only dream of), "Life begins
at 40" She told me this when I was still in my 20's and I had NO CLUE what the hell she was talking about then.
Seems Heather and I both are having a bit of our own seperate adventures here (you'll have to read between the lines on
that one as this website is not an appropriate place to post those adventures). Let's just say it helps w/ the big smile on my
face :) She's got one too (damn big smile).
LOL, I feel fortunate to have the oppurtunities laid out in front of me. Real lucky! Let's just say...life isn't over at 40 in no
way whatsoever. Ditha...you were so right! I don't even question why anymore....it's in taking the oppurtunities that are
right here in front of me and experiencing them. WOW! Kinda leaves me breathless actually. Just saying that you don't
have to sell yourself short (I'm telling myself this).
Check out my music selections on all 3 pages....always reflecting moods. Music and words both w/ much significance to
those that understand and appreciate music as we do. I continue to live life as many adventures seeking it's meaning and
purpose it seems, always (that's the fun of it most of the time). Everytime I think I've got it all figured out...it just changes all
over again!
Like thinking I can live here in Holland for a whole year where dogs shit freely all over the place...thinking I just maybe
might get thru it w/out stepping in any. HA...it happened to me one day out of the blue picking up Alex from school. I let my
guard down for one second....and well, that's all it took. Stay tuned for the next adventure (s).
To your
health...peace and love, Jes
P.S. Check out this link all. http://www.cafepress.com/lynnltd My stepdad Warren came up w/ this design you
may remember I posted on a previous journal entry on a shirt. If he sells enough of them he and my mom will
be able to afford a trip out to see me. It's a good cause and a great design.
Journal Update/Thursday/Jan.5, 2006
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment! If your checking out past journal entrys
pages 1 and 2 be sure to start from the bottom up to recieve in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view.
If your'e already caught up on my past entrys and pics Enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every
update!!!
Main Page: Major Tom (I'm Coming Home)/Peter Shilling
Journal 1 Music Selection: We Want the Funk/George Clinton & The P-Funk All Stars(Journal 1 page and Music Selection
dedicated to G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Music Selection: True Faith/New Order
Happy New Year All,
Wow...2006! Can you believe it? This past year flew by so damn quick I've hardly had the chance to catch my breath. But
be it as it is, I'm just going with it the best way I know how, and that's just living it. New Years always takes me back over the
year in review. I can't help it...I get all nostalgic and shit. I'm constantly reinventing myself on a daily basis anyway and it's
not just the New Year that allows me the oppurtunity to see change that's constantly happening throughout the year.
It is a time though, that for some reason I reflect the most. Well that, and my birthday. Why are these dates so significant
in my reflections? Hell if I know. I guess I need some sort of date to feel the need to close a chapter in my life and begin a
new one. I stopped using it as a date to quit smoking or any other new years resolutions I couldn't keep. That I can do any
time of the year right? So...I had my moments of nostalgia. Pretty much the entire day I spent by myself doing that thing
(Heather and Alex have been in the States since the 29th)...reflecting on the past year. Come midnight, I hardly had time to
get all sentimental and emotional. I was amongst new friends bringing in the New Year and toasting those thoughts silently
to myself as it sort of all just flashed by me in the cobwebs of my brain. Happy and sad in my thoughts, mostly enriched and
empowered by the events and outcome by the choices I've made.
The past few weeks I've concentrated most on a few new intimate realtionships here. A couple of relaxed evenings spent
with Henri over dinner and some jamming out (he plays guitar and has an awesome voice). He and I click quite a bit and in
our conversations I find a lot of similarities. It's always nice to know someone else has certain similiar thoughts about stuff
you can relate to (sometimes those things that you totally think you're the only one that thinks those things...ok, don't know
if that makes any sense to anyone but me?). I have the upmost respect for those that are simply themselves. I can't
explain it...I just know what it feels like to be in his presence. It's the kind of presence I like surrounding myself with.
Looking forward to his getting back from India to hear of his adventures there. It's never been high on my list of places to
go...it's his 2nd time there and I find myself now very interested from the stories he's already shared.
I'm finding I have people now to have a cup of coffee with here, join for a beer, share a glass of wine. Nice! People I will
eventually miss when I leave this country.
Christmas was pretty chilled. It all appeared to look like a pretty traditional American X-mas. I can't remember the last time I
had a 10 year old around to prepare for. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care (well, actually we had to move
em from that location because they were to heavy when filled). Did I tell ya how hard it was finding stockings to begin with?
It's apparently not a Dutch tradition. Alex and I came across these quite accidently while doing some last minute shopping
(we'd already decided the next best thing was hanging instead, 3 Santa hats w/ our names on them) and snatched em up of
course.
Heather cooked us a great dinner of pot roast, potatoes and carrots all slow cooked on top of the stove (good thing since
we really don't have much of an oven...just that little thing half microwave/half confectioners oven I've managed to learn how
to use). It's been quite a challenge (and since baking soda is no where to be found in Holland....I have no idea why???) I
have yet to experiment with some of my regular bake goods such as my Snickerdoodle Cookie turn Space Doodle. Heather
is picking me up a box of baking soda while she's there in the States (so...I still have some time in creating and perfecting
that recipe). Amazing how many (most) of my recipes call for baking soda. So anyway, I managed to get out a
lemon/orange cake with cream cheese frosting, some oatmeal shortbread cookies, and brownies. Not bad I'll say for the
size of this thing. A friend of Heather's joined us for dinner. Later I met up with some new friends for a few drinks.
These new friends have already become quite a significant part of my life as they are the same friends I spent on New
Years Eve and Day. Already tight with one another, the 3 (Marco, Martin, and Ralph) invited and included me into their
intimate circle. It's one of those rare situations where all the dynamics seem to work quite nicely with the 4 of us without any
effort.
New Year's Eve started off with a bike ride (I was a passenger...ouch and then a flat tire) to a small gathering some friend's
of theirs home. These people too, welcomed me into their home. It was a nice way to bring in the New Year (that and the
great fireworks at midnight...wish I'd have had my camera for that). The fireworks were a display of the most amazing
fireworks I've only seen in controlled firework displays. Here it was all over the streets like a war zone. Everyone stepped
outside to shoot off whatever they had. No bans like Texas because of it being too dry. The night before had a significant
amount of snow come down (it was all melted later New Years Eve afternoon). I can't say I've ever seen fireworks like this
before (not in even off my balcony last year, tripping on chocolate & shrums, as the mexican neibors all went wild). It was
kind of weird to know I was celebrating hours earlier than most of my friends back home...in fact, as most of you were
bringing in the new year I was coming home from my party and winding down.
We headed off to an alternative dance party being held at a museum mostly full of artsy type people. It had a great energy
filled with several kinds of music/vibes in it's many spaces. I was right where I wanted and needed to be just then, with good
people, good energy and the feeling I needed to feel most...NOT ALONE! I did more of the same all the next day at Martin
and Marco's just doing what I enjoy best...Jes Chill'n (and recovering)! Thanks to these like-minded souls for making damn
sure this transpanted Austin to Holland boy wasn't alone.
I'm cooking a Mexican feast for them Friday here at the house, that and Mojitas (they haven't tried those yet and I'm
wondering if they've had anything like 7 layer dip before either...Hope no one gets sick)? I've managed to pull together all
the ingrediants I need (though always a challenge here). I've got plenty of ice for the Mojitas...that can't go wrong.
Always nice to have the house to myself (Jimmy, the cat is in hiding pretty much until Heather and Alex get back Sunday) for
a few days. Then it'll be the chaos I've grown accustomed to having around me most of the last 6 months (the kind you get
with having a 10 year old around and a female roommate...it's a chilled kind of chaos). Kinda missed and kinda nice since
it's my chaos! I think I fit in here just fine, though I have been thinking a lot about my next adventure and where it might
take me. I don't begin griefing what will be missed here just yet...it's just a thought proccess at this time...New Year's got me
thinking about it. Like...hmmmm, wonder where I'll be next year at this time? Who knows? Get back in the here and now...I
intend to make the best out of the next 6 months here.. Just more to look at next year, enriched and empowered by the
experience (s). Stay Tuned for the forever changing adventures in this ones life...never know what to
expect....hmmmm...going back to that rule I try to live by expecting the unexpected, always!
Peace and Love, Jes
P.S. Heather got me a wireless headphone so I can now go anywhere (including the yard) listening to what the neibors refer
to as NOISE. But...the neibors are out of town for half of January so I have had the pleasure the last several days to just
listen to my music...amazing how much that does for ones well being. No restrictions...Woo Hoo!!!
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment! If your checking out past journal entrys
pages 1 and 2 be sure to start from the bottom up to recieve in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view.
If your'e already caught up on my past entrys and pics Enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every
update!!!
Main Page: Major Tom (I'm Coming Home)/Peter Shilling
Journal 1 Music Selection: We Want the Funk/George Clinton & The P-Funk All Stars(Journal 1 page and Music Selection
dedicated to G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Music Selection: True Faith/New Order
Happy New Year All,
Wow...2006! Can you believe it? This past year flew by so damn quick I've hardly had the chance to catch my breath. But
be it as it is, I'm just going with it the best way I know how, and that's just living it. New Years always takes me back over the
year in review. I can't help it...I get all nostalgic and shit. I'm constantly reinventing myself on a daily basis anyway and it's
not just the New Year that allows me the oppurtunity to see change that's constantly happening throughout the year.
It is a time though, that for some reason I reflect the most. Well that, and my birthday. Why are these dates so significant
in my reflections? Hell if I know. I guess I need some sort of date to feel the need to close a chapter in my life and begin a
new one. I stopped using it as a date to quit smoking or any other new years resolutions I couldn't keep. That I can do any
time of the year right? So...I had my moments of nostalgia. Pretty much the entire day I spent by myself doing that thing
(Heather and Alex have been in the States since the 29th)...reflecting on the past year. Come midnight, I hardly had time to
get all sentimental and emotional. I was amongst new friends bringing in the New Year and toasting those thoughts silently
to myself as it sort of all just flashed by me in the cobwebs of my brain. Happy and sad in my thoughts, mostly enriched and
empowered by the events and outcome by the choices I've made.
The past few weeks I've concentrated most on a few new intimate realtionships here. A couple of relaxed evenings spent
with Henri over dinner and some jamming out (he plays guitar and has an awesome voice). He and I click quite a bit and in
our conversations I find a lot of similarities. It's always nice to know someone else has certain similiar thoughts about stuff
you can relate to (sometimes those things that you totally think you're the only one that thinks those things...ok, don't know
if that makes any sense to anyone but me?). I have the upmost respect for those that are simply themselves. I can't
explain it...I just know what it feels like to be in his presence. It's the kind of presence I like surrounding myself with.
Looking forward to his getting back from India to hear of his adventures there. It's never been high on my list of places to
go...it's his 2nd time there and I find myself now very interested from the stories he's already shared.
I'm finding I have people now to have a cup of coffee with here, join for a beer, share a glass of wine. Nice! People I will
eventually miss when I leave this country.
Christmas was pretty chilled. It all appeared to look like a pretty traditional American X-mas. I can't remember the last time I
had a 10 year old around to prepare for. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care (well, actually we had to move
em from that location because they were to heavy when filled). Did I tell ya how hard it was finding stockings to begin with?
It's apparently not a Dutch tradition. Alex and I came across these quite accidently while doing some last minute shopping
(we'd already decided the next best thing was hanging instead, 3 Santa hats w/ our names on them) and snatched em up of
course.
Heather cooked us a great dinner of pot roast, potatoes and carrots all slow cooked on top of the stove (good thing since
we really don't have much of an oven...just that little thing half microwave/half confectioners oven I've managed to learn how
to use). It's been quite a challenge (and since baking soda is no where to be found in Holland....I have no idea why???) I
have yet to experiment with some of my regular bake goods such as my Snickerdoodle Cookie turn Space Doodle. Heather
is picking me up a box of baking soda while she's there in the States (so...I still have some time in creating and perfecting
that recipe). Amazing how many (most) of my recipes call for baking soda. So anyway, I managed to get out a
lemon/orange cake with cream cheese frosting, some oatmeal shortbread cookies, and brownies. Not bad I'll say for the
size of this thing. A friend of Heather's joined us for dinner. Later I met up with some new friends for a few drinks.
These new friends have already become quite a significant part of my life as they are the same friends I spent on New
Years Eve and Day. Already tight with one another, the 3 (Marco, Martin, and Ralph) invited and included me into their
intimate circle. It's one of those rare situations where all the dynamics seem to work quite nicely with the 4 of us without any
effort.
New Year's Eve started off with a bike ride (I was a passenger...ouch and then a flat tire) to a small gathering some friend's
of theirs home. These people too, welcomed me into their home. It was a nice way to bring in the New Year (that and the
great fireworks at midnight...wish I'd have had my camera for that). The fireworks were a display of the most amazing
fireworks I've only seen in controlled firework displays. Here it was all over the streets like a war zone. Everyone stepped
outside to shoot off whatever they had. No bans like Texas because of it being too dry. The night before had a significant
amount of snow come down (it was all melted later New Years Eve afternoon). I can't say I've ever seen fireworks like this
before (not in even off my balcony last year, tripping on chocolate & shrums, as the mexican neibors all went wild). It was
kind of weird to know I was celebrating hours earlier than most of my friends back home...in fact, as most of you were
bringing in the new year I was coming home from my party and winding down.
We headed off to an alternative dance party being held at a museum mostly full of artsy type people. It had a great energy
filled with several kinds of music/vibes in it's many spaces. I was right where I wanted and needed to be just then, with good
people, good energy and the feeling I needed to feel most...NOT ALONE! I did more of the same all the next day at Martin
and Marco's just doing what I enjoy best...Jes Chill'n (and recovering)! Thanks to these like-minded souls for making damn
sure this transpanted Austin to Holland boy wasn't alone.
I'm cooking a Mexican feast for them Friday here at the house, that and Mojitas (they haven't tried those yet and I'm
wondering if they've had anything like 7 layer dip before either...Hope no one gets sick)? I've managed to pull together all
the ingrediants I need (though always a challenge here). I've got plenty of ice for the Mojitas...that can't go wrong.
Always nice to have the house to myself (Jimmy, the cat is in hiding pretty much until Heather and Alex get back Sunday) for
a few days. Then it'll be the chaos I've grown accustomed to having around me most of the last 6 months (the kind you get
with having a 10 year old around and a female roommate...it's a chilled kind of chaos). Kinda missed and kinda nice since
it's my chaos! I think I fit in here just fine, though I have been thinking a lot about my next adventure and where it might
take me. I don't begin griefing what will be missed here just yet...it's just a thought proccess at this time...New Year's got me
thinking about it. Like...hmmmm, wonder where I'll be next year at this time? Who knows? Get back in the here and now...I
intend to make the best out of the next 6 months here.. Just more to look at next year, enriched and empowered by the
experience (s). Stay Tuned for the forever changing adventures in this ones life...never know what to
expect....hmmmm...going back to that rule I try to live by expecting the unexpected, always!
Peace and Love, Jes
P.S. Heather got me a wireless headphone so I can now go anywhere (including the yard) listening to what the neibors refer
to as NOISE. But...the neibors are out of town for half of January so I have had the pleasure the last several days to just
listen to my music...amazing how much that does for ones well being. No restrictions...Woo Hoo!!!
Friday/December 16, 2005
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from MomenThursday January 5, 2005
Happy New Year Tribespeople! Hard to believe it has almost been 2 weeks since my last entry (WOW!). Time just fly’s when
you are having so much fun. The closure of “05” has been admirable and the New Year has already brought favourable
circumstances to achieve and to divide some of the things I hold the most pure to me (Art, Music, Austin, and Life!)
I almost succeeded in achieving one of last years resolutions. I made a promise to myself in “04” to make it through the year
of “05” without breaking any bones. LOL (If you read my bio you will understand why this was an important resolution.)
While riding my bicycle on the way home from the Austin Music Festival two months ago, I crashed. The wreck left me without
a bike to ride and a very expensive hospital bill. Two days later I had a metal plate added to my wrist. OUCH! Hard to believe
I broke my wrist bad enough for a metal plate to be added, but I did it it (shaking head). Soooooo, needless to say; my
resolution for this year is to make it through “06” without having a metal plate of any sort attached to my body. I still have two
limbs without gory scary scars and foreign metal objects, so my wish is to keep it that way (I have a metal plate in my hip!).
Other than the bicycle accident, I achieved many of the other wishes I had hoped for. (Stop locking my keys in the car, quit
losing my wallet…tee hee, the success of this Web Site (which is now at about 6000+ hits), and “best of all” Create Art that
can be appreciated).
I am not sure what this year will inaugurate for me, but I do know that it will be filled with honesty and be one that is amiable. I
have much to be kindly disposed of and have put many demons behind me. My Son, my Family, my Doggies, and a ton of
wonderful like minded Austinites are what I am truly obliged too.
These days have me very busy! My day job, creating graphics for various Musicians/Businesses hear within Austin, and
photographing the work that I share here on this site of some our Town’s finest keeps me more than filled.
I will continue to do this, as it is something I hold dear and the thing that brings my soul balance in all this craziness we live
in. I am off to read the Journal Jes the Adventure has sent to me and to get it published for you to read. Until my next entry I
wish you all happiness and health.
“HOW BOUT THEM LONGHORNS!” ( : Tonight I am taking my Son to see the University of Texas tower! I’ll share some Art of
this with you within the next few days! ( “ Wesley
t to Moment! If your checking out past journal entrys
pages 1 and 2 be sure to start from the bottom up to recieve in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view.
If your'e already caught up on my past entrys and pics Enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every
update!!!
Main Page: Santa Clause and His Old Lady/ Cheech and Chong
Journal 1 Music Selection: Searching/Blackalicious (Journal 1 page and Music Selection dedicated to G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Music Selection: Finding/Blackalicious (this selection is part 2 to my music selection in Journal 1...you gotta listen
to both...GOOD STUFF).
YO YO YO,
Or is that HO HO HO (I miss my old sweatshirt that said HO! Repeat 3 Times...I think it finally had one too many washings or
something like that and I regretfully trashed it (MAY IT REST IN PEACE)! I have a favorite photograph of me in it, taken
w/good friend Jason...but damn if I hadn't left it in The States w/ all my other photos. Kinda wish I had those now.
I hit the 6th month slump (I guess that's what we'll call it) along with the holiday blues. I'm okay...I've certainly survived worst
(some of you might remember that crappy dark place I was in a couple years ago...WOW was that already 2 years ago
about the same time of year? Time just flying! I guess you know you're living somewhere and not on holiday when you fall
into a routine, and then it gets kind of boring. No Problem...I'll live.
Really, it's not all that bad. The weather hasn't been as bad (YET) as I heard it can be. We've actually had highs this past
week around 50 and it hasn't gotten below freezing too often. This morning though, a little wet and windy, making it feel a lot
colder. And then...the cold really isn't my thing. I'm glad we've had some consistant sun, as that's helpful in keeping up the
spirits. Good thing, that sun! Heather says it's pretty normal to feel this 6th month thing and then again, I am away from the
usual friends and family this holiday season. The past several years I've spent the holidays with my mom and stepdad and
seeing the same friends I usually see every year. Comfortable and consistant! I'm having to be open-minded about these
new experiences...not really a problem...I just have to get into it is all. Accepting the fact that it's just a different thing this
year. I've had different before. Good thing I have a mom that has always supported whatever I do without laying any guilt
on me for my choices. Yeah, there I'm pretty fortunate. Many of holidays spent in other places besides feeling like I have to
do the family thing.
But...it's been nice these past few years chilling at moms. Smoking and Drinking a little holiday cheer...and eating of
course. The last few years has been more about the feelings you get spending time with people you want to spend time with
and not about trying to outdo everyone in gift giving. For me that's most important. It's gotten so way out of hand
commercially for me. I mean hell yeah, I enjoy recieving gifts like the next guy (and I won't refuse one)...but it's more "in the
giving" for me. And there's a whole lot more I can give w/out spending a bunch of money at one certain time of year. I've
had many a poor X-mas but if I'm with peeps I want to be with then it's rich in other ways unimaginable. And that's what I
have to remember in being out here on my adventurous journey far far away from those I'm used to being with, seeing
what's right here in front of me.
This is the 1st year Alex has discovered that shhhhhhh...no Santa? Really? LOL Okay...I believe! There, ya have it...just a
kid at heart. And damn if I'm not gonna make it a nice Xmas with those that I'm surrounded with here. And it's ok to miss
something/someone...makes it that much more appreciated and valued. So yeah, I'm missing what I already have. I bet next
year I'll probaly miss this particular holiday season as well...as there are holidays of long ago come and gone that will
continue to be savored. Happy Holidays...Y'all come back now! PEACE AND LOVE, Jes
P.S. if you get the chance...please listen to music selections on Journal 1 and 2 pages....the words really say a lot! And you
gotta laugh at Cheech and Chong cause you just gotta take life on a lighter note sometimes and laugh out loud!
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from MomenThursday January 5, 2005
Happy New Year Tribespeople! Hard to believe it has almost been 2 weeks since my last entry (WOW!). Time just fly’s when
you are having so much fun. The closure of “05” has been admirable and the New Year has already brought favourable
circumstances to achieve and to divide some of the things I hold the most pure to me (Art, Music, Austin, and Life!)
I almost succeeded in achieving one of last years resolutions. I made a promise to myself in “04” to make it through the year
of “05” without breaking any bones. LOL (If you read my bio you will understand why this was an important resolution.)
While riding my bicycle on the way home from the Austin Music Festival two months ago, I crashed. The wreck left me without
a bike to ride and a very expensive hospital bill. Two days later I had a metal plate added to my wrist. OUCH! Hard to believe
I broke my wrist bad enough for a metal plate to be added, but I did it it (shaking head). Soooooo, needless to say; my
resolution for this year is to make it through “06” without having a metal plate of any sort attached to my body. I still have two
limbs without gory scary scars and foreign metal objects, so my wish is to keep it that way (I have a metal plate in my hip!).
Other than the bicycle accident, I achieved many of the other wishes I had hoped for. (Stop locking my keys in the car, quit
losing my wallet…tee hee, the success of this Web Site (which is now at about 6000+ hits), and “best of all” Create Art that
can be appreciated).
I am not sure what this year will inaugurate for me, but I do know that it will be filled with honesty and be one that is amiable. I
have much to be kindly disposed of and have put many demons behind me. My Son, my Family, my Doggies, and a ton of
wonderful like minded Austinites are what I am truly obliged too.
These days have me very busy! My day job, creating graphics for various Musicians/Businesses hear within Austin, and
photographing the work that I share here on this site of some our Town’s finest keeps me more than filled.
I will continue to do this, as it is something I hold dear and the thing that brings my soul balance in all this craziness we live
in. I am off to read the Journal Jes the Adventure has sent to me and to get it published for you to read. Until my next entry I
wish you all happiness and health.
“HOW BOUT THEM LONGHORNS!” ( : Tonight I am taking my Son to see the University of Texas tower! I’ll share some Art of
this with you within the next few days! ( “ Wesley
t to Moment! If your checking out past journal entrys
pages 1 and 2 be sure to start from the bottom up to recieve in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view.
If your'e already caught up on my past entrys and pics Enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every
update!!!
Main Page: Santa Clause and His Old Lady/ Cheech and Chong
Journal 1 Music Selection: Searching/Blackalicious (Journal 1 page and Music Selection dedicated to G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Music Selection: Finding/Blackalicious (this selection is part 2 to my music selection in Journal 1...you gotta listen
to both...GOOD STUFF).
YO YO YO,
Or is that HO HO HO (I miss my old sweatshirt that said HO! Repeat 3 Times...I think it finally had one too many washings or
something like that and I regretfully trashed it (MAY IT REST IN PEACE)! I have a favorite photograph of me in it, taken
w/good friend Jason...but damn if I hadn't left it in The States w/ all my other photos. Kinda wish I had those now.
I hit the 6th month slump (I guess that's what we'll call it) along with the holiday blues. I'm okay...I've certainly survived worst
(some of you might remember that crappy dark place I was in a couple years ago...WOW was that already 2 years ago
about the same time of year? Time just flying! I guess you know you're living somewhere and not on holiday when you fall
into a routine, and then it gets kind of boring. No Problem...I'll live.
Really, it's not all that bad. The weather hasn't been as bad (YET) as I heard it can be. We've actually had highs this past
week around 50 and it hasn't gotten below freezing too often. This morning though, a little wet and windy, making it feel a lot
colder. And then...the cold really isn't my thing. I'm glad we've had some consistant sun, as that's helpful in keeping up the
spirits. Good thing, that sun! Heather says it's pretty normal to feel this 6th month thing and then again, I am away from the
usual friends and family this holiday season. The past several years I've spent the holidays with my mom and stepdad and
seeing the same friends I usually see every year. Comfortable and consistant! I'm having to be open-minded about these
new experiences...not really a problem...I just have to get into it is all. Accepting the fact that it's just a different thing this
year. I've had different before. Good thing I have a mom that has always supported whatever I do without laying any guilt
on me for my choices. Yeah, there I'm pretty fortunate. Many of holidays spent in other places besides feeling like I have to
do the family thing.
But...it's been nice these past few years chilling at moms. Smoking and Drinking a little holiday cheer...and eating of
course. The last few years has been more about the feelings you get spending time with people you want to spend time with
and not about trying to outdo everyone in gift giving. For me that's most important. It's gotten so way out of hand
commercially for me. I mean hell yeah, I enjoy recieving gifts like the next guy (and I won't refuse one)...but it's more "in the
giving" for me. And there's a whole lot more I can give w/out spending a bunch of money at one certain time of year. I've
had many a poor X-mas but if I'm with peeps I want to be with then it's rich in other ways unimaginable. And that's what I
have to remember in being out here on my adventurous journey far far away from those I'm used to being with, seeing
what's right here in front of me.
This is the 1st year Alex has discovered that shhhhhhh...no Santa? Really? LOL Okay...I believe! There, ya have it...just a
kid at heart. And damn if I'm not gonna make it a nice Xmas with those that I'm surrounded with here. And it's ok to miss
something/someone...makes it that much more appreciated and valued. So yeah, I'm missing what I already have. I bet next
year I'll probaly miss this particular holiday season as well...as there are holidays of long ago come and gone that will
continue to be savored. Happy Holidays...Y'all come back now! PEACE AND LOVE, Jes
P.S. if you get the chance...please listen to music selections on Journal 1 and 2 pages....the words really say a lot! And you
gotta laugh at Cheech and Chong cause you just gotta take life on a lighter note sometimes and laugh out loud!
TUES./Nov.29, 2005
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment! If your checking out past journal entrys pages 1 and 2
be sure to start from the bottom up to recieve in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view. If your'e already caught
up on my past entrys and pics Enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every update!!!
Jes the Adventurer Home Page: Strange Love Triangle/New Order and Depeche Mode
Journal 1 Page: Life-Death Prefuse 73 (Journal 1 page and Music Selection dedicated to G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Page: Kodakchrome/Paul Simon
Hey All,
Just back from Scotland where I spent my Thanksgiving w/ the Lynas family, the Drakesters, Cheryl and her roomate Mark.
We showed the Scots how we celebrate a southern Thanksgiving with each of our own "individual family traditions". Some of
which had to be altered a bit when certain ingrediants couldn't be found (PUMKIN PUREE). I can't imagine what it would have
been like trying to make the same dinner here in Holland. I'm sure, a bit more of a challenge. What the hell is traditional
anyway? I think it's different for everyone. It was interesting to bring each of our own into the day and create a completely
new one here at the Lynas household on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
If you've been keeping up w/ my journal entrys you'll remember the Lynas family from when I 1st arrived across the ocean
(hard to believe that was already 6 months ago). It was off to Glasgow to celebrate the 40th bday of Steve. There I met his
wife, (Kewl) Kat and their 3 daughters (and what seems like every other family member). I had looked forward to seeing them
again. They had made me feel very comfortable in their home that 1st time and it's just that feeling you get when you meet
other like-minded souls. Kat and I involved ourselves in some pretty deep mutual conversation just as we had to leave.
Seems that happens a lot when you connect w/ someone. Just as it's getting good, it's time to go. I have a good feeling that
I'll see them again and part of what draws that desire is the fact that we have yet tio finish our conversation.
I got to see my 1st snowfall while in Glasgow on Friday morning. Seems a great part of Europe was getting hit by this
massive winter storm. It wasn't a whole lot...just enough to cover the ground and look really kewl as it was falling (Austin
would have shut down). We had flown out of Germany and upon our arrival from the UK, experienced a lot more snow
already on the ground here on this end, most of which has now melted. It's a cold 36 degrees (F) this Tuesday morning
(that's cold enough for me...Farenheit over 2 degrees Celsius seems a little warmer). I think it's time to plan a trip anywhere
warmer.
At last, I feel like I've finally arrived here in Eindhoven...drum roll please...roll out the red carpet. I actually had emails and
phone messages waiting for me upon my return (2 of which acknowledged my american holiday). That's nice, really! I have
spent the last couple of weeks establishing some friendships with some quality time being spent w/out the expectation of
anything but...friendship! All in due time. If there's one valuable thing I have learned is that you cannot force a friendship. It
does however, seem to be a bit harder to make friends here than in my native land. Most I have met here that are
like-minded souls say it's a Dutch thing. And more so in the small town of Eindhoven. But I have established now,
friendships with those that are including me to join in and be a part of their lives. I can't really describe those feelings if you
haven't experienced it. It's only been in the past couple weeks this all seems to have taken perspective.
It's nice having some kewl peeps to take a road trip with, explore the unknown, go to a dance party, or just go out for a beer
(check out the new pics). Something we all kind of take for granted in our own country having those already established (just
down the street or a phone call away). And it's not like my experience leaving Texas for the East Coast a few years ago.
There I did have to make new friends but...it was different. I was in my own country. It somehow seemed so much easier.
But...like-minded souls are everywhere! Some just happen to have grown up in a different culture and speak a different
language is all. Yup...finally establishing some life long friendships in these here parts. Indeed!!!
What's next on the agenda? Hmmmm....Had planned a few days trip to Rome for this upcoming weekend but had to
postpone until a later date for a better time that my host could show me the city. I'm sure it'll be worth the wait. I'd like to
make another trip out to Cologne and spend a bit more time there getting to know the city and it's people...and to think, that's
only a couple hour train ride away. I'm spending the x-mas holidays here w/ The Drakesters fufilling my role of Santa (or one
of his elves) and still waiting to hear back on a couple friends that may come out to celebrate their New Years here. So
really...I have no clue what's happening next. Just going with it. Just remember if you've got a lick of adventure and can get
away for a few days I'd welcome your company. All you gotta do is say you're coming. I'd welcome the chance to share my
ongoing adventures here w/ ya, make some new ones of our own, or whatever. Meanwhile I'm taking the good advise of my
friend Barbara; Jes, just keep on adventuring. Your life will be richer for it.
Update: Phillips has taken an active role in helping Heather write a letter in response to the one I recieved here (In Dutch of
course) in the continuing saga of our next door neibors complaints against my NOISE. I'll keep ya'll updated. Stay tuned for
more adventures to come. Peace and Love, Jes
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment! If your checking out past journal entrys pages 1 and 2
be sure to start from the bottom up to recieve in order. Click on any of the pics for a full size view. If your'e already caught
up on my past entrys and pics Enjoy the Music Selections on those pages changed w/ every update!!!
Jes the Adventurer Home Page: Strange Love Triangle/New Order and Depeche Mode
Journal 1 Page: Life-Death Prefuse 73 (Journal 1 page and Music Selection dedicated to G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Page: Kodakchrome/Paul Simon
Hey All,
Just back from Scotland where I spent my Thanksgiving w/ the Lynas family, the Drakesters, Cheryl and her roomate Mark.
We showed the Scots how we celebrate a southern Thanksgiving with each of our own "individual family traditions". Some of
which had to be altered a bit when certain ingrediants couldn't be found (PUMKIN PUREE). I can't imagine what it would have
been like trying to make the same dinner here in Holland. I'm sure, a bit more of a challenge. What the hell is traditional
anyway? I think it's different for everyone. It was interesting to bring each of our own into the day and create a completely
new one here at the Lynas household on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
If you've been keeping up w/ my journal entrys you'll remember the Lynas family from when I 1st arrived across the ocean
(hard to believe that was already 6 months ago). It was off to Glasgow to celebrate the 40th bday of Steve. There I met his
wife, (Kewl) Kat and their 3 daughters (and what seems like every other family member). I had looked forward to seeing them
again. They had made me feel very comfortable in their home that 1st time and it's just that feeling you get when you meet
other like-minded souls. Kat and I involved ourselves in some pretty deep mutual conversation just as we had to leave.
Seems that happens a lot when you connect w/ someone. Just as it's getting good, it's time to go. I have a good feeling that
I'll see them again and part of what draws that desire is the fact that we have yet tio finish our conversation.
I got to see my 1st snowfall while in Glasgow on Friday morning. Seems a great part of Europe was getting hit by this
massive winter storm. It wasn't a whole lot...just enough to cover the ground and look really kewl as it was falling (Austin
would have shut down). We had flown out of Germany and upon our arrival from the UK, experienced a lot more snow
already on the ground here on this end, most of which has now melted. It's a cold 36 degrees (F) this Tuesday morning
(that's cold enough for me...Farenheit over 2 degrees Celsius seems a little warmer). I think it's time to plan a trip anywhere
warmer.
At last, I feel like I've finally arrived here in Eindhoven...drum roll please...roll out the red carpet. I actually had emails and
phone messages waiting for me upon my return (2 of which acknowledged my american holiday). That's nice, really! I have
spent the last couple of weeks establishing some friendships with some quality time being spent w/out the expectation of
anything but...friendship! All in due time. If there's one valuable thing I have learned is that you cannot force a friendship. It
does however, seem to be a bit harder to make friends here than in my native land. Most I have met here that are
like-minded souls say it's a Dutch thing. And more so in the small town of Eindhoven. But I have established now,
friendships with those that are including me to join in and be a part of their lives. I can't really describe those feelings if you
haven't experienced it. It's only been in the past couple weeks this all seems to have taken perspective.
It's nice having some kewl peeps to take a road trip with, explore the unknown, go to a dance party, or just go out for a beer
(check out the new pics). Something we all kind of take for granted in our own country having those already established (just
down the street or a phone call away). And it's not like my experience leaving Texas for the East Coast a few years ago.
There I did have to make new friends but...it was different. I was in my own country. It somehow seemed so much easier.
But...like-minded souls are everywhere! Some just happen to have grown up in a different culture and speak a different
language is all. Yup...finally establishing some life long friendships in these here parts. Indeed!!!
What's next on the agenda? Hmmmm....Had planned a few days trip to Rome for this upcoming weekend but had to
postpone until a later date for a better time that my host could show me the city. I'm sure it'll be worth the wait. I'd like to
make another trip out to Cologne and spend a bit more time there getting to know the city and it's people...and to think, that's
only a couple hour train ride away. I'm spending the x-mas holidays here w/ The Drakesters fufilling my role of Santa (or one
of his elves) and still waiting to hear back on a couple friends that may come out to celebrate their New Years here. So
really...I have no clue what's happening next. Just going with it. Just remember if you've got a lick of adventure and can get
away for a few days I'd welcome your company. All you gotta do is say you're coming. I'd welcome the chance to share my
ongoing adventures here w/ ya, make some new ones of our own, or whatever. Meanwhile I'm taking the good advise of my
friend Barbara; Jes, just keep on adventuring. Your life will be richer for it.
Update: Phillips has taken an active role in helping Heather write a letter in response to the one I recieved here (In Dutch of
course) in the continuing saga of our next door neibors complaints against my NOISE. I'll keep ya'll updated. Stay tuned for
more adventures to come. Peace and Love, Jes
Sat./Nov.12, 2005
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment!
Jes the Adventurer Home Page: Oh Very Young/Cat Stevens (for Wesley and his family for their recent loss)
Journal 1 Page: Eriatarka/The Mars Volta (Journal 1 page and Music Selection dedicated to G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Page: Planet Claire/B-52's
Hey All,
Well...I'm not running around in short sleeves any more. Seems the Indian Summer we were having is done and over with.
Winter is definetely setting in. I'm already wimping out a little...alrighty, a lot! I'm totally ok if the sun is out but the minute it
goes behind the clouds I'm chilled. Heather brought home a space heater from work yesterday and it already did the trick for
me, knocking the chill out. She's already used to the cold after being here 2 years and quite likes it. Me, on the other
hand...well, I need to find some warm places to pop over to for a few days every now and again. I'm sure I'll live. All part of
the adventure right? And it's not like you have to twist my arm twice to find some warmer destinations close by.
Last couple weeks have been interesting in a lot of ways. I'm finding some barriers in cultural differences while at the same
time new doors open. And I, the optomistic...just like to believe it's the ending of a chapter and the beginning of a new one.
Not really ending but taking on a different form as relationships in all their different forms are constantly and forever
changing. I grieve in the transition always, feeling a sadness in it's constant changing form. Then...I simply must take the
experience, be empowered for having had it and celebrate it. Sounds easy enough...but as usual I want to buck change.
The past year has been full of some pretty significant changes, certainly the choices I made to leave everything behind and
come to a foreign country is by far one of the most adaptable changes I've made for myself. Guess I need to pat my own self
on the back a little more often, for being adaptable in ways I didn't know I could (except for the impending winter months yet
to be seen). Just going with it (in layers)!
Something I've been lacking here is the closeness of a friend I can just chill out with...no drama! Simple companionship w/
some common interests. The past couple weeks have proven (just as I was about to give up) that it just takes some time in
building relationships w/ people that are easily taken for granted in my own land. I've now had the oppurtunity to do just that
w/ some like-minded souls. This is exactly what I've been needing.
I'm finding that even though we see Holland as a liberal and tolerant country back in The States, it's quite similiar in a lot
ways. In far more ways than I had a clue. Just like in The States you click w/ like-minded souls and have a bond of
similarities. We didn't all vote for Bush did we? And those of you who did, well...no comment! Here I'd say the government is
just as screwed up as our own. At least this is what I'm getting from a lot of the people I'm bonding with recently. We have
long conversations about those similarities. Funny how I'm seeing a lot of SUV's here and people keeping up w/ the Jone's.
Sounding familiar?
One big difference here and now...I'm not allowed to listen to my music at any level for the time being (not until they do a
sound thing between the walls to determine the level it's being played and who know's when that'll be while this has been
dragging on for several weeks with no results). Unfortunately, we have to abide by this or else I could easily be deported.
For the time being we have been warned by the police, next time we get a ticket. Since the noise level of my music is
directed at me personally...I have no choice in the matter. They have my passport info. Sucks but what can I do about it.
Here I've been asked to turn off my music in the middle of the day because it's bothering the couple next door. I've been
blamed (by them) that the wife is now in therapy over it...talk about freak'n drama. More if and when it develops.
I'm hoping someone of my friends there will consider taking a trip out here (I've got the house to myself for several days after
X-mas thru after the New Year) at some point while I'm out here. It's the cheapest time of year to fly out and I'd welcome the
company. At least think about it! Be a great way to bring in The New Years...I personally, have NO PLANS! Besides, you
really should take advantage of the fact I'm out here now. My year committment has about another 7 months to go. Hey, it's
a free place to stay...how many oppurtunities like this do you get??? Just throwing it out there. Any time is really okay.
And...we could meet up somewhere else possibly if you wanted to if Holland isn't on your list of visits. I'm game for some
exploring in Italy, Spain, and definetely gotta make it back into Greece at some point...any takers?
The offer to come visit me here is just a inexpensive way of making it happen for most of the folks I know that don't make a
whole lot of extra cashola. You just need a passport and a couple weeks or so to actually get that in the mail. Getting a
passport has allowed me the freedom over the last few years to do only what I could have maybe, imagined before.
Waiting on a cast-iron skillet Teri (a long time customer and friend of mine) has passed on to me from her father. I'm
honored to get it and use it in memory of her dad. Meanwhile, the cast-iron skillet and griddle Heather and I ordered from
pans.com 2 months ago for cheap...finally arrived (we're thinking it was on the slow boat to China). I was able to...at long
last, make homemade flour tortillas last night w/ a mexican chicken/rice and mole dish. Okay, maybe I'm not supposed to say
this was the greatest mexican meal I've had since leaving the State of Texas because I made it...but damned if it wasn't (the
tortillas need some practice...they're not my grandmothers and it's been 20 plus years since I made em from scratch
myself...I mean c'mon, who needs to make em from scratch if you live in Austin).
We found a new twist on our Mojita's if you can find grapefruit club soda. We've only been lucky enough to find it just the
once, but it did make a damn Lekker Mojita! We know it's best as a summer drink but we're willing to turn up the heat and
build a fire to continue drinking them thru the winter here.
OK...I'm sorta doing a poll on how many readers we have these days on my pages specifically. I need updates on snail-mail
addresses and current phone numbers so I can update my records (hey, ya never know when you might actually get a card
or a letter snail-mail...just ask my mom...I think she's framed hers).
A dear friend of mine Michael, in Atlanta, Georgia will be opening up his resturant/dance club sometime in the near future.
I've just fiished and presented a menu he seems to be happy with that might just work. It's an open door, and who knows
where that may go for me personally. It's nice for now, to be working on a menu that's of my own specialties w/ the
oppurtunity that he and his investors are considering me to be their Chef (I'd have the status of International Chef having
been able to practice my art abroad). Still way too soon for any decisions...but seriously considering this one. Stay Tuned
for Where The Next Adventure Takes Me and continue to Enjoy the Music!!! Peace and Love, Jes
P.S. All the pics on this update were taking thru the eyes of Juriaan from various outings and trips except for the one taken of
him. Enjoy!
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment!
Jes the Adventurer Home Page: Oh Very Young/Cat Stevens (for Wesley and his family for their recent loss)
Journal 1 Page: Eriatarka/The Mars Volta (Journal 1 page and Music Selection dedicated to G.H./JES CHILL'N)
Journal 2 Page: Planet Claire/B-52's
Hey All,
Well...I'm not running around in short sleeves any more. Seems the Indian Summer we were having is done and over with.
Winter is definetely setting in. I'm already wimping out a little...alrighty, a lot! I'm totally ok if the sun is out but the minute it
goes behind the clouds I'm chilled. Heather brought home a space heater from work yesterday and it already did the trick for
me, knocking the chill out. She's already used to the cold after being here 2 years and quite likes it. Me, on the other
hand...well, I need to find some warm places to pop over to for a few days every now and again. I'm sure I'll live. All part of
the adventure right? And it's not like you have to twist my arm twice to find some warmer destinations close by.
Last couple weeks have been interesting in a lot of ways. I'm finding some barriers in cultural differences while at the same
time new doors open. And I, the optomistic...just like to believe it's the ending of a chapter and the beginning of a new one.
Not really ending but taking on a different form as relationships in all their different forms are constantly and forever
changing. I grieve in the transition always, feeling a sadness in it's constant changing form. Then...I simply must take the
experience, be empowered for having had it and celebrate it. Sounds easy enough...but as usual I want to buck change.
The past year has been full of some pretty significant changes, certainly the choices I made to leave everything behind and
come to a foreign country is by far one of the most adaptable changes I've made for myself. Guess I need to pat my own self
on the back a little more often, for being adaptable in ways I didn't know I could (except for the impending winter months yet
to be seen). Just going with it (in layers)!
Something I've been lacking here is the closeness of a friend I can just chill out with...no drama! Simple companionship w/
some common interests. The past couple weeks have proven (just as I was about to give up) that it just takes some time in
building relationships w/ people that are easily taken for granted in my own land. I've now had the oppurtunity to do just that
w/ some like-minded souls. This is exactly what I've been needing.
I'm finding that even though we see Holland as a liberal and tolerant country back in The States, it's quite similiar in a lot
ways. In far more ways than I had a clue. Just like in The States you click w/ like-minded souls and have a bond of
similarities. We didn't all vote for Bush did we? And those of you who did, well...no comment! Here I'd say the government is
just as screwed up as our own. At least this is what I'm getting from a lot of the people I'm bonding with recently. We have
long conversations about those similarities. Funny how I'm seeing a lot of SUV's here and people keeping up w/ the Jone's.
Sounding familiar?
One big difference here and now...I'm not allowed to listen to my music at any level for the time being (not until they do a
sound thing between the walls to determine the level it's being played and who know's when that'll be while this has been
dragging on for several weeks with no results). Unfortunately, we have to abide by this or else I could easily be deported.
For the time being we have been warned by the police, next time we get a ticket. Since the noise level of my music is
directed at me personally...I have no choice in the matter. They have my passport info. Sucks but what can I do about it.
Here I've been asked to turn off my music in the middle of the day because it's bothering the couple next door. I've been
blamed (by them) that the wife is now in therapy over it...talk about freak'n drama. More if and when it develops.
I'm hoping someone of my friends there will consider taking a trip out here (I've got the house to myself for several days after
X-mas thru after the New Year) at some point while I'm out here. It's the cheapest time of year to fly out and I'd welcome the
company. At least think about it! Be a great way to bring in The New Years...I personally, have NO PLANS! Besides, you
really should take advantage of the fact I'm out here now. My year committment has about another 7 months to go. Hey, it's
a free place to stay...how many oppurtunities like this do you get??? Just throwing it out there. Any time is really okay.
And...we could meet up somewhere else possibly if you wanted to if Holland isn't on your list of visits. I'm game for some
exploring in Italy, Spain, and definetely gotta make it back into Greece at some point...any takers?
The offer to come visit me here is just a inexpensive way of making it happen for most of the folks I know that don't make a
whole lot of extra cashola. You just need a passport and a couple weeks or so to actually get that in the mail. Getting a
passport has allowed me the freedom over the last few years to do only what I could have maybe, imagined before.
Waiting on a cast-iron skillet Teri (a long time customer and friend of mine) has passed on to me from her father. I'm
honored to get it and use it in memory of her dad. Meanwhile, the cast-iron skillet and griddle Heather and I ordered from
pans.com 2 months ago for cheap...finally arrived (we're thinking it was on the slow boat to China). I was able to...at long
last, make homemade flour tortillas last night w/ a mexican chicken/rice and mole dish. Okay, maybe I'm not supposed to say
this was the greatest mexican meal I've had since leaving the State of Texas because I made it...but damned if it wasn't (the
tortillas need some practice...they're not my grandmothers and it's been 20 plus years since I made em from scratch
myself...I mean c'mon, who needs to make em from scratch if you live in Austin).
We found a new twist on our Mojita's if you can find grapefruit club soda. We've only been lucky enough to find it just the
once, but it did make a damn Lekker Mojita! We know it's best as a summer drink but we're willing to turn up the heat and
build a fire to continue drinking them thru the winter here.
OK...I'm sorta doing a poll on how many readers we have these days on my pages specifically. I need updates on snail-mail
addresses and current phone numbers so I can update my records (hey, ya never know when you might actually get a card
or a letter snail-mail...just ask my mom...I think she's framed hers).
A dear friend of mine Michael, in Atlanta, Georgia will be opening up his resturant/dance club sometime in the near future.
I've just fiished and presented a menu he seems to be happy with that might just work. It's an open door, and who knows
where that may go for me personally. It's nice for now, to be working on a menu that's of my own specialties w/ the
oppurtunity that he and his investors are considering me to be their Chef (I'd have the status of International Chef having
been able to practice my art abroad). Still way too soon for any decisions...but seriously considering this one. Stay Tuned
for Where The Next Adventure Takes Me and continue to Enjoy the Music!!! Peace and Love, Jes
P.S. All the pics on this update were taking thru the eyes of Juriaan from various outings and trips except for the one taken of
him. Enjoy!
Oct. 29, 2005
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment!
Jes the Adventurer Home Page: Une Very Stylish/Dimitri From Paris
Journal 1 Page: Tear The Roof Off The Sucker/George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic (Journal 1 page and Music Selection
dedicated to G.H.)
Journal 2 Page: Ku'u Ome Kahaluu/Abra Moore
Bon Jour,
We're totally having an Indian Summer here. This past week we've been seeing temperatures above 70 for our daytime highs
and in the mid to upper 50's a night. To make the pot even sweeter there has been little or no rain in the forcast with mostly
sunny skies. This is unseasonably warm and dry for this time of year. I'm certainly not complaining and taking full advantage
of it. It's funny how these temperatures would seem almost cold to me back in Texas but I must have acclimated over the
summer.
Funny too, I've been running around in short sleeves, happy as all hell that it's not raining and most of the Dutch people out
and about are already wearing full winter gear. Weird! You'd think they'd be more accostumed to these temperatures?
Anyway, it's supposed to hold out till the end of next week when highs and lows around here should be more seasonal. The
leaves haven't yet all fallen off the trees and the colors are pretty vibrant.
We got lucky weatherwise in Paris last weekend as well. Just a bit of rain on the way down and some overcast skies but it
stayed mostly sunny the entire weekend...I'd say sweatshirt or light jacket weather. Now Paris has never been high up there
on my list of places to go. Mostly because when I think of Paris I think of it being overpriced and touristy. I'm glad though
now, that I had this oppurtunity to go. I'd go back.
I think I fell in love with it's charm and most certain beauty while roaming the streets by myself. I had no real desire to go do
any tourist things. Instead I just took in the culture walking around the streets. I saw Notre-Dame only because it was located
nearby and as you can see from the pics, caught the Eiffel Tower in the far off distance. I feel I got more out of my short trip
there in not having any kind of real agenda.
I hear a lot of people saying they've have had a problem with the French. I never had a problem with any of the French I've
met in the States (it's been explained to me that the attitude probaly comes from those, towards those that have an
expectation for those to speak their language both in their country and in their own. I mean, think about it. They know both
their language, ours and probaly 3 or 4 others while hmmmmm, no comment! I never once encountered any attitude towards
my lack of the language. But then I at least responded to their Bon Jour, even if it were the few words I could say in French
and it followed with, "can you speak English" At least they could see I was trying and not expecting them to have to speak my
language and always thanking those who could! This just happens to be my experience.
We lucked out w/ a really great apartment at the last minute even though Heather hadn't completely finished booking it before
we left http://www.rentparis.com/ (site for renting of private parisian apartements).
It turned out to be cheaper than most hotels in Paris (125 euros a night for 3 including taxes) and nicer, being that it was a
small apartment and could accomodate us all. Hell, Heather and I both agreed on being able to live there. It had a
completely full kitchenette w/ more gadgets than we have here in Eindhoven. Leave it to the gays for detail. Straight, Gay or
whatever..this is the way to go when considering traveling. You can be sure you're going to get a clean accomodation down
to the detail. It was right in the heart of Quartier du Marais and not but a quick Metro ride away from anything.
As you can imagine, the french cuisine was awesome. There was something about ordering your food and glass of wine in an
outdoor cafe on a beautiful day and people watching. At that moment life couldn't be any better...cept maybe when I stopped
in a bar while roaming the streets, indulging in a nice blonde french beer recommended by the bartender (okay, 2) and sat
outside doing the same for a good hour just soaking up the moments as they simply passed by.
We met up w/ an old co-worker friend of Heathers (Stefanie and her partner Heather who just recently moved to the area)
making our time in Paris an even more rewarding experience. These two happen to like camping (no surprise there) and they
happen to already be completely equipped...LOL :) I'm totally down for camping and I hear it's great here in Europe. Come
Spring!!!
Our last hours in Paris meeting up w/ the girls again for brunch, we managed to find ourselves at a very nice outdoor cafe
that just so happened to be serving Mexican food. Yumm!!! I'm telling you, it was the best since I've left the State of Texas.
Heather and I shared the Fajitas for 2 (was a tough choice because the Huevos Rancheros was also calling my name) and we
had to have a Dos Equis. It even came on a sizzling plate and the tortillas were definetely home-made. This was authentic
Mexican food (or am I just so out of touch?)...well, definetely better than anything else I've had here in Holland! Topped it off
with a slice of mouth-watering cheesecake I'd been craving for several weeks. Delicious! I can almost feel my tastebuds
orgasming now.
So far this weekend, it's off to a dance party tonight w/ one of the 1st people I met in the area, Ivo. Sounds like fun. I hadn't
done any night life stuff since Barcelona and I'm ready to dance. Stay Tuned for the next adventure and enjoy the music...
bpaix et amour, Jes
Music Reflects my Moods...and they Vary from Moment to Moment!
Jes the Adventurer Home Page: Une Very Stylish/Dimitri From Paris
Journal 1 Page: Tear The Roof Off The Sucker/George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic (Journal 1 page and Music Selection
dedicated to G.H.)
Journal 2 Page: Ku'u Ome Kahaluu/Abra Moore
Bon Jour,
We're totally having an Indian Summer here. This past week we've been seeing temperatures above 70 for our daytime highs
and in the mid to upper 50's a night. To make the pot even sweeter there has been little or no rain in the forcast with mostly
sunny skies. This is unseasonably warm and dry for this time of year. I'm certainly not complaining and taking full advantage
of it. It's funny how these temperatures would seem almost cold to me back in Texas but I must have acclimated over the
summer.
Funny too, I've been running around in short sleeves, happy as all hell that it's not raining and most of the Dutch people out
and about are already wearing full winter gear. Weird! You'd think they'd be more accostumed to these temperatures?
Anyway, it's supposed to hold out till the end of next week when highs and lows around here should be more seasonal. The
leaves haven't yet all fallen off the trees and the colors are pretty vibrant.
We got lucky weatherwise in Paris last weekend as well. Just a bit of rain on the way down and some overcast skies but it
stayed mostly sunny the entire weekend...I'd say sweatshirt or light jacket weather. Now Paris has never been high up there
on my list of places to go. Mostly because when I think of Paris I think of it being overpriced and touristy. I'm glad though
now, that I had this oppurtunity to go. I'd go back.
I think I fell in love with it's charm and most certain beauty while roaming the streets by myself. I had no real desire to go do
any tourist things. Instead I just took in the culture walking around the streets. I saw Notre-Dame only because it was located
nearby and as you can see from the pics, caught the Eiffel Tower in the far off distance. I feel I got more out of my short trip
there in not having any kind of real agenda.
I hear a lot of people saying they've have had a problem with the French. I never had a problem with any of the French I've
met in the States (it's been explained to me that the attitude probaly comes from those, towards those that have an
expectation for those to speak their language both in their country and in their own. I mean, think about it. They know both
their language, ours and probaly 3 or 4 others while hmmmmm, no comment! I never once encountered any attitude towards
my lack of the language. But then I at least responded to their Bon Jour, even if it were the few words I could say in French
and it followed with, "can you speak English" At least they could see I was trying and not expecting them to have to speak my
language and always thanking those who could! This just happens to be my experience.
We lucked out w/ a really great apartment at the last minute even though Heather hadn't completely finished booking it before
we left http://www.rentparis.com/ (site for renting of private parisian apartements).
It turned out to be cheaper than most hotels in Paris (125 euros a night for 3 including taxes) and nicer, being that it was a
small apartment and could accomodate us all. Hell, Heather and I both agreed on being able to live there. It had a
completely full kitchenette w/ more gadgets than we have here in Eindhoven. Leave it to the gays for detail. Straight, Gay or
whatever..this is the way to go when considering traveling. You can be sure you're going to get a clean accomodation down
to the detail. It was right in the heart of Quartier du Marais and not but a quick Metro ride away from anything.
As you can imagine, the french cuisine was awesome. There was something about ordering your food and glass of wine in an
outdoor cafe on a beautiful day and people watching. At that moment life couldn't be any better...cept maybe when I stopped
in a bar while roaming the streets, indulging in a nice blonde french beer recommended by the bartender (okay, 2) and sat
outside doing the same for a good hour just soaking up the moments as they simply passed by.
We met up w/ an old co-worker friend of Heathers (Stefanie and her partner Heather who just recently moved to the area)
making our time in Paris an even more rewarding experience. These two happen to like camping (no surprise there) and they
happen to already be completely equipped...LOL :) I'm totally down for camping and I hear it's great here in Europe. Come
Spring!!!
Our last hours in Paris meeting up w/ the girls again for brunch, we managed to find ourselves at a very nice outdoor cafe
that just so happened to be serving Mexican food. Yumm!!! I'm telling you, it was the best since I've left the State of Texas.
Heather and I shared the Fajitas for 2 (was a tough choice because the Huevos Rancheros was also calling my name) and we
had to have a Dos Equis. It even came on a sizzling plate and the tortillas were definetely home-made. This was authentic
Mexican food (or am I just so out of touch?)...well, definetely better than anything else I've had here in Holland! Topped it off
with a slice of mouth-watering cheesecake I'd been craving for several weeks. Delicious! I can almost feel my tastebuds
orgasming now.
So far this weekend, it's off to a dance party tonight w/ one of the 1st people I met in the area, Ivo. Sounds like fun. I hadn't
done any night life stuff since Barcelona and I'm ready to dance. Stay Tuned for the next adventure and enjoy the music...
bpaix et amour, Jes
