| Next Week @ What's Working Devotions |
[Jan. 30th, 2008|04:38 am] |
On February 5th we will be calling for oneness of humanity and discussing the commonalities of mankind. What do we all have in common?
Please share your thoughts and get the ball rolling. |
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| What's Working Devotions - Elimination of Prejudice |
[Jan. 30th, 2008|04:35 am] |
All nations and peoples must consider themselves brethren. They are all descendants from Adam. They are the branches, leaves, flowers and fruits of One Tree. They are pearls from one shell.
(1/29/08) This week’s topic is elimination of all prejudice and greater inclusion in our lives. I had the opportunity this weekend to spend it with my cousin, Leah Kyaio. She recently moved to Washington from Ohio to be the Diversity Specialist in the Central Kitsap School District. Leah is very passionate about the elimination of prejudice and increasing diversity in everyone’s life. It was very exciting to spend the time with and hear how much the school district is committed to the object of making diversity work. You can read more about Leah and her new position at http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/2008/jan/24/ck-schools-taps-specialist-to-improve-diversity/ |
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| Equality of Men and Women |
[Jan. 16th, 2008|05:22 am] |
The world of humanity has two wings -- one is woman and the other man. Not until both wings are equally developed can the bird fly. Should one wing remain weak, flight is impossible. Not until the world of woman becomes equal to the world of man in the acquisition of virtues and perfections, can success and prosperity be attained as they ought to be.
(Abdu'l-Baha, Foundations of World Unity, p. 29)
While looking for examples of success stories regarding men and women having greater equality, I found the United Nations International Labour Organization. In the effort to help people all over the world work with security, dignity, equity, and freedom, the ILO recognizes that the equality of men and women is key to its success. To achieve this, they have four strategic goals; 1. the right to work, 2. employment opportunities for women and men, 3. work and life balance (social protection), and 4. dialogue amongst employer and employed (social dialogue).
The issue of equality of men and women also play a part in population limitation. Nova focused on the implementation of campaigns to encourage limitation on population growth in three countries, China, India, and Kenya. It is interesting to note both India and Kenya have used intentionally appealed to men and women in limiting family size. India has made efforts to increase women’s independence with opportunities socially, academically and economically. Both China and India have made efforts to reduce the cultural preference for boys.
Here are just a couple more findings on bring greater balance between the two wings of humanity, men and women. What do you think? Is there more out there?
Next week we’ll explore global efforts that benefit everyone. |
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| Been gone, and Now I'm Back |
[Jan. 9th, 2008|04:27 am] |
Yes, I took a bit (quite a bit) of a break from the What's Working Devotions. I have always been committed to it, just didn't have the time and energy to keep it going for a while there. Now, I'm back and in full swing. I'm still interested in seeing what kind of a virtual thing we can get going with this.
Not only would I like to see it virtual, but see if we can get a blending of virtual and face-to-face. Maybe Rachel can help with this. I know her schedule no longer allows for her to come to the house. How about adding to the conversation online?
This week we are talking about finding truth. I think this is a great lead in to information, which I think is a great lead in to the virtual world. Next week we will be discussing equality of men and women. What are some thoughts one or both of these subjects? Where have you found good examples of truth and knowledge and/or efforts being made towards establishing the equality of men and women?
Thanks for your input. |
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| What's Working Devotions, 10/9/07 |
[Oct. 13th, 2007|10:13 am] |
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Religion and Science are inter-twined with each other and cannot be separated. -- Baha’u’llah
What's Working Devotions is not just for those who come to the Oregon City Community Room. It is also for those who want to participate virtually. This week (10/9/07) we enjoyed the offering of spiritual calling from someone who is participating via e-mail. He forwarded the link to this beautiful slide show of "Ecclesiastes 3" and it was shared with everyone. If you want to participate but are not able to join us in person, please forward your thoughts and/or spiritual calling via e-mail or this Live Journal blog, and I will share it with those who come that night. This week we discovered the Science and Religion Forum (http://www.srforum.org/). This is a forum with the objective of promoting “discussion between scientific understanding and religious thought.” They hold conferences on different topics including “Einstein, God and Time”, “Faith, Values, and the Scientific Enterprise”, and more. The forum and conferences are based in England. We also discovered The Clergy Letter Project. This is a letter that has gathered over 11,000 signatures of clergy who recognize the value of evolution and the balance of science and religion. This project has even grown to establish Evolution Sunday events which provides an opportunity for congregations to discuss the compatibility of religion and science. How do you see science and religion as compatible? What do you think is the common link between scientific understanding and religious thought? |
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| What's Working Devotions, 10/2/07 |
[Oct. 6th, 2007|09:17 am] |
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Religion is the chief foundation of Love and Unity and the cause of Oneness. If a religion become the cause of hatred and disharmony, it would be better that it should not exist. To be without such a religion is better than to be with it. -- Baha'u'llah This week we had Julie Rubenstein join us to share about the Inter-Religious Action Network of Washington County (IAN). This is a group of people from different Religious groups that come together under the sponsorship of Washington County and the Vision Action Network. The IAN has representatives from Religious communities including (but not limited to) the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Church of Scientology, United Methodist Church, Islamic Society of Greater Portland, American Jewish Committee, New Thought Ministries, and Baha'is. Their mission states “The Inter-Religious Action Network invites people from all faith communities to come together to build respect for our diversity and to provide leadership for the improvement of life in Washington County.” The IAN has become an integral part of Washington County, as a member of it's community and a resource to its leaders. This is an impressive example of what is working in inter-faith activities. The IAN has regular events that they coordinate which include: Community Faith Forum, Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, Martin Luther King Day Celebration, SOLV Washington County Clean and Green, Washington County Walk for Unity, and the Mayors' Interfaith Breakfast. It is also a resource for organizing interfaith dialogues, working in collaboration with government, business, educators, and non-profit organizations, and moving human resources to provide service where service is needed. It was a very invigorating discussion with amazing stories. Julie shared stories of how people have crossed the barrier of the perception that people with differing religious beliefs cannot work together. The contrary has been experienced by those who participate with the IAN. They are showing that Religion can be a source of love and unity to make great things happen, regardless of the Religious traditions and beliefs. For more information on the Inter-Religious Action Network of Washington County you can contact them at: 3700 SW Murray Blvd, Ste. 195; Beaverton, OR 97005; 503-846-5792; van@co.washington.or.us What inter-faith projects are you a part of? Do you know of other groups that are breaking down the barrier of separation of church and mosque? |
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| What's Working Devotion, 9/25/07 |
[Sep. 29th, 2007|02:43 pm] |
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All the children of men are under the mercy of the Great God. They are the sons of one God. -- Baha'u'llah If you are not coming to What's Working Devotions because there isn't enough time to gather dinner and come over; come and join us for dinner. We will be making enough for everyone and would love to have you join us. Like this last week, the quality time getting to know each other better is part of what is working during our What's Working Devotions. What is the difference between the elimination of prejudice and the oneness of humanity? The week before we discuss what is working in the arena of eliminating prejudice. This last week, 9/25/07, we discussed the oneness of humanity. What is the difference? From my perspective, the elimination of prejudice is a personal thing, like addressing the distinction between the different ways people worship God and the different traditions for getting married. Successfully bringing about the oneness of humanity is a much larger thing. Addressing prejudice and breaking down barriers is just a part of it. In looking for projects that are helping to establish the oneness of humanity we looked on an international level, across governmental boundaries. We explored the United Nations' website. There are many international systems sponsored by the United Nations. Among them includes the International Labor Organization. This organization has members that include 28 governments, 14 employers and 14 workers. It is helping to establish cooperation throughout the world and emphasizing the issues of labor between governments, employers' and workers' organizations. We read about Basketball Without Borders and how it brought together youth from countries that have been separated by mutual violence, such as the countries of former Yugoslavia; Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Montenegro, and Macedonia (http://www.un.org/works/peace/peace1.html). There are many examples of people coming together to make a difference and showing the world that mankind is actually one family. The borders and boundaries can help in making societies work. But, they do not need to separate us from each other and be a justification for hatred and violence. What programs do you know about that are helping to demonstrate and bring closer the oneness of humanity? |
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| What's Working Devotions, Elimination of Prejudice |
[Sep. 22nd, 2007|10:11 am] |
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All nations and peoples must consider themselves brethren. They are all descendants from Adam. They are the branches, leaves, flowers and fruits of One Tree. They are pearls from one shell. (Baha'u'llah)
This week (9/18/07) we called for the elimination of all prejudice. After the spiritual calling and prayers, we discussed both personal struggles with moving past looking at people as different and finding commonalities, and programs that are making a difference in the fight against prejudice. One member of the group shared their observation of how all Religions have been working towards the same goal with many different methods. Upon reflecting on the different methods of describing the Indescribable, she realized that it makes since that there would be many and diverse methods. Many people have come the understand that there can be many names, such as God, Alla, Jahovah. At the same time, couldn't there be many images, such as the many gods of mythology? Or, the many gods of Hinduism? It would like six blind people trying describe an elephant. How many ways are there? On a personal level, this was helpful to reconsider the preconceived notions that monotheism is more “right” than polytheism. Another member of our group shared some of their experience with an intercultural marriage. We also discussed the diversity of wedding traditions and styles. An example of a personal struggle with prejudice, that brought the issue to a personal level for many people, was Ryan White's struggle. Ryan was a young man who contracted AIDs during medical treatment for his hemophilia. During the 1980's, when Ryan was first diagnosed and attempting to attend school, the prejudice against AIDs victims was severe. Ryan and his family fought “the system” and won. In the mean time, many people struggled with their personal prejudice on this issue of AIDs. You can read more about Ryan and the continued impact of his example at www.ryanwhite.com. Organizations we looked at this week included Oneness (www.oneness.org) which promotes “oneness of unity through music, the arts & education”. Oneness led to the discovery of Diversity Inc (www.diversityinc.com), a magazine and web-site that speaks to “diversity and the bottom line”. We reviewed their list of the top 50 companies for diversity. Where is diversity in your life? Where have you found inspiration to help re-examine some of your prejudices? |
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| What's Working Devotions - World Peace |
[Sep. 11th, 2007|09:27 pm] |
"All the nations and peoples will come under the shadow of the Tent of the Great Peace and Harmony … so that disputes shall not end in war."
In recognition of the anniversary of 9/11, this week’s devotions focused on international projects that are making a difference. To start the United Nations was the first focus. There are many projects that the United Nations has where representatives from around the world participate, including the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and many more.
One person encouraged us to look at the positive effects of the Civic Education via Radio for Southern Sudan. This is a civic education radio series that increases the listeners’ knowledge of political developments and increases discussion of political developments, tolerance of diverse viewpoints, and non-violent solutions to complex problems.
We also discovered the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. They have developed a project with the intention of training leaders how to build state capacity, with particular attention to nonviolent conflict resolution.
What benefits have you found in the world becoming smaller? What examples can you give of countries working together to make the world and better place? What about examples of developing communities intentionally? |
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| What's Working Devotions, Tuesday, 8/28/07 |
[Sep. 5th, 2007|03:22 am] |
"[Truth] is most important, because the people are too easily led by tradition. It is because of this that they are often antagonistic to each other, and dispute with one another.
"But the manifesting of Truth discovers the darkness and becomes the cause of Oneness of faith and belief: because Truth cannot be two! That is not possible." (Abdu'l-Baha, Abdu'l-Baha in London, p. 30)
After sharing prayers and spiritual calling for truth and knowledge, there was a discussion on “How do you discover and determine truth?” It was agreed that the most common method of gathering knowledge was through literature and experts. It was shared that one method of gaging truth is by finding consistency in literature and experts. It appears that accessibility to information has increased through the decades. Libraries are working by distributing literature. The internet is working by distributing information. The internet is also working at getting and keeping people connected. This is helping with gaining knowledge from experts.
The discussion took a turn at looking at what is working at keeping people connected. In particular, Skype is an internet communication software that allows free talking and video conferencing. (www.Skype.com) Skype allows people talk for free as long as both parties have the software program, a microphone, speakers, and internet connection. This includes international calls. With a web-cam you can have video connection. One of the people at the discussion group found this information very helpful since her mother lives in the Solomon Islands and they are not able to talk by phone very often.
How do you discover and determine truth? What are some methods that are working for you to stay connected? |
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| Days 10 & 11, The Trip Home |
[Aug. 18th, 2007|09:42 pm] |
It is finally time to come home. We are very ready to be home. We had one last morning in Ljubljana and then it was time to fly home. (see pix) Although there was the constant stress of Damian's twitching, we were able to manage it well enough. Fortunately, we were in the back of every plane. This resulted in Damian have no one behind him who may be disturbed by the constant shaking of his seat.
The seven hour lay over turned out very well. Bob and Zack decided to hang out in the airport, while Charles Damian and Karen spent the time with Charles' sister and niece, and her partner (Lois, Ebie and Leah respectively). It was a wonderful visit. I especially enjoyed the time to catch up with everyone since I hadn't seen them for at least six years. I had never met Leah and we hit it off very well. I discovered that her work is in alignment with the direction I'm interested in taking my education. Hopefully this will lead to more connections.
Most importantly, we got home. Jay and Steven were at the airport waiting for us. It was great news to hear that Damian dog was waiting for us at home. It was so nice to sleep in our own bed.
I was home with just enough time to raise the serious concern with my branch manager regarding the credit card. Now that we were home from Europe the card being on hold was moot. None-the-less, the branch manager experienced the same problems we had with customer service. Hopefully, this will result in some positive changes in the way they serve their customers. Although there were no serious problems caused by their error, it had the potential of hanging a black cloud on our most wonderful vacation.
In the end, the only things carrying on from our vacation are wonderful memories, great pictures, and more stories than any one may want to hear. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to share with you. Be looking for the video. |
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| Day 9, Sunday, 7/29/07 |
[Aug. 18th, 2007|09:38 pm] |
Sunday was certainly a day to recover from the night before. We had to leave the party early because Damian's full body twitching escalated to the point of repetitive twitching. We had become concerned that they could progress to convulsions. We left the reception with the information on how to get to the emergency room of Ljubljana. While stuck in traffic from Bled, Damian's twitching stopped. Once we were lost in Ljubljana, the twitching started again.
Here we are, in a country where, only periodically, I have found people who spoke English. I don't have my personal interpreters because they are all at the wedding reception. My son is unable to control the twitching of his body which looked to me to be similar to seizures. I can't reach his care-givers because: 1) It is an international phone call. 2) We don't have their phone numbers with us. 3) Even if we did it wouldn't help because they are on vacation. I'm certain my health insurance doesn't cover health care in Slovenia. I don't know how the emergency health care works here. And more importantly, I don't know what is wrong with my son.
Once the twitching had subsided, my gravest concerns did as well. We got back to the apartment, I had Bob send out a desperate plea to all those I had e-mail addresses for. We asked them to contact the therapist's assistant at home to try and reach her where ever she was on vacation. Then, Charles and I took Damian to the hospital. By this time, it was midnight. Our new found ability to maneuver the city was helpful. The receptionist got us into the doctor right away. He recognized Damian's twitching as Parkinsonian response. It isn't really Parkinson, but a similar response. Most likely due to medication and stress. This was confirmed by the positive response Damian had to the medication he gave him. With this swift treatment and positive response, the doctor gave us a prescription that we were able to fill before we went back to the apartment. With this all said and done, the emergency room visit and the medication cost us a total of 4.50 EU. (Which would equate to $6.)
Damian was no longer twitching. We found a medication that helped to control it. We had an understanding of what was happening and that it would not escalate into something we couldn't manage. Thanks to our friends who swiftly responded to our fear laden e-mail, we established e-mail contact with Damian's therapist. We had a day in Ljubljana to get a working familiarity with this new response and medication.
With it all said and done, it was a minor drama that did not distract from the greatness of the event we all came to Slovenia to participate in. We are all back home. Damian is no longer twitching and back in contact with his care providers. If something does come up, we will be able to take care of him with his treatment team. |
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| Day 8, Saturday, 7/28/07 |
[Aug. 18th, 2007|03:51 pm] |
Today is the BIG DAY. It has finally come. After all of the hopeful relationships that resulted in only friendships. After telling everyone that he was not going on his year of service to find a wife. After telling everyone that she was not going to marry the new (eligible) Baha'i coming to Ljubljana. After nine months separated by two continents and an ocean. The wedding day is here.
According to Slovene tradition, the groom picks the bride up at her home. The family disguises her and two others and then the groom has to figure out which one is his bride. We did go to Maruska's home to pick her up. They did not make Josh pick her out from a line up. Outside of their home, the party began, with family, an accordion player, and wedding cookies.
After being coworkers in service to Baha'u'llah. After finally recognizing her “as a girl”. After getting to know each other's character even over sporadic internet lines (thank goodness for Skype). After their parents attested to their readiness by giving consent for marriage. These “two bright orbs” reflect their love and share its radiance with their family and friends. (see pix)
The wedding is at the Blejski Grad. (see pix) This is “Slovenia's oldest castle at the top of a steep cliff above Lake Bled.” It “was first mentioned in 1011” (tourist flier). We are escorted by the squire of the castle to the the lower courtyard. There we are greeted by the lord and lady of the castle. They lead us to the upper courtyard where the civil ceremony is performed. In Slovenia the separation of church and state includes marriage ceremonies. Anyone who wishes to have a religious wedding ceremony must first have their civil ceremony with the religious one in a separate place and time. At Blejski Grad, the civil ceremony was performed by the Magistrate over looking the lake. (see pix)
In the civil ceremony the Magistrate spoke about the meaning of partnership and the commitment of a life time marriage. He spoke of the value each member of the partnership brings and the responsibility they each hold. The dignity and frankness of the ceremony carried with it a sense of establishing a firm covenant with the care-givers of the populas (the government) and the community. Then, they said it. “Do you Eric Joshua Lynch, take Maruska Levstek to be your lawfully wedded wife?” “I do.” Yeah! (Wait a minute, who did he say?) “And do you, Maurska Levstek, take Eric Joshua Lynch, to be your lawfully wedded husband?” “I do.” YEAH! (But wait, he did say the wrong name. Don't worry, the license was right.)
Yes, it was real. They exchanged their rings. They received the certificate of their civil ceremony. They received a certificate in memory of holding the ceremony at Beljski Grad. They made a procession from the gazebo under a shower of bubbles. They are one step closer to being married. It is now an intermission. For as beautiful as that ceremony was. For exciting as it was to hear them both say “I do” with no hesitation. Even with the romance of the first kiss. I knew, they weren't married yet. I was still waiting to hear their pledge of marriage. I was still waiting for the Baha'i ceremony.
The Baha'i ceremony was in a separate room, behind the gazebo of where the civil ceremony was. Where the civil ceremony was clearly designed and arranged by the coordinators of the castle, the Baha'i ceremony was the one that presented Josh and Maruska and their “desire to enter the sacred union of marriage” ('Abdu'l-Baha). They provided booklets for everyone with quotations on love and marriage from the Baha'i Writings that were read in both Slovene and English. It was simply them with their witnesses before their community and family. Then, they said it: “Resnicno se bomo vsi ravnali po Bozji volji.” “We will all, verily, abide by the Will of God.” Now they are married.
As a bystander, watching the growth “in the light of the Sun of Truth and reflecting this luminous love” it is impossible to not be touched by the “Divine power of love” (Baha'u'llah). I am moved beyond words in the wonder and joy that “this Thy servant and this Thy maidservant have gathered under the shadow of Thy mercy and they are united through Thy favor and generosity” ('Abdu'l-Baha). The joy our family feels at this time when we get to begin a new life with a new family is indescribable. (see pix)
The joy must be expressed and shared. It is now time for the party. The reception is across the lake. As if God designed even the weather for them, the dark clouds of the summer rain storm came just as the picture taking needed to come to an end. Everyone gathered for a four course meal, dancing, and fun.
It is a tradition in Slovenia that the bride and groom are not considered fully married until midnight. This leaves time during the reception for the village “boys” to steal the bride back and hold her ransom from the groom. It is the responsibility of the groom and his witness to assure that she is not taken and that the deal is made successfully with the kidnappers, if she is. This responsibility was ever present on Bob's mind, as he was Josh's witness.
After the second course of the meal, the dancing begins. Josh and Maruska open with the first dance, of course. Joined by them are their parents dancing together. (Yes, Bob danced with me.) This was then followed with Maruska dancing with her father (Fonza), and Josh dancing with me. Believe it or not (I have evidence), that left Bob to dance with Vida, Maruska's mother.
For us, the reception was cut short, so that we could take care of Damian's escalated twitching. (This will be described more in Sunday's report.) But, from what we heard, there were two attempts on kidnapping Maruska, with one being successful. The successful attempt was resolved by Josh having to follow a series of clues that lead him to nearly every person at the reception, asking for their help in some way, to find his new bride. Gratefully, he found her and the reception party proceeded with great joy, laughter, dancing, and of course, cake.
There is so much detail that I can not share in this brief format. You can see all our pictures at http://picasaweb.google.com/karen.tucker.lynch/. If you would like to have some personal time with us sharing stories, pictures, and more, give us a call and we would love to have you over for dinner some time.
Of course the trip isn't over yet. We still have to get home. Those stories are to follow.
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| Day 6, Thursday, 7/26/07 |
[Aug. 18th, 2007|08:54 am] |
Today we are going to visit with Baha'is who have befriended and supported Josh since his year of service. First we will be picking Josh up at the Baha'i Center. The Baha'i Center is in the opposite corner of Ljubljana from our apartment. Amongst the four of us (Damian spent the day with Maruska) we had been to and from the Baha'i Center at least four times. But, as we found last night, our confidence may be on faulty ground.
Without our tour guide to get us home last night, we got lost in Ljubljana. After turning around no less than two times to get to the road we recognized as closest to the apartment, we were stuck. We drove up and down this same road no less than four times looking to get to the other side for the way that will get us home. Please keep in mind that this crew are all capable travelers. Amongst those in the car was Bob, who had been doing most of the driving during this trip. There was also Charles, who has taken many walks in the area, paid close attention while traveling, has a reputation for having “homing pigeon instincts”, and has maneuvered in many cities throughout the world. In the end we had to ask directions twice and buy a map.
The conclusions made that night were:
1.Ljubljana is one of the hardest cities to maneuver in and around.
2.You don't always come back the same way you got there.
3.You must always have a driver and navigator with a map to get anywhere in the city.
Point 3 was first proven on last Tuesday when Damian and Charles ventured home from old city center. To Charles' surprise, they lost their way home. They got back to the apartment thanks to Damian's ability to read and navigate from the map. This was the same technique used to get us to the Baha'i Center. Karen navigated with the map while Bob drove. No problem.
There are about 50 Baha'is in all of Slovenia. There is one Spiritual Assembly, which is in Ljubljana. There are about 35 Baha'is in Ljubljana. The next largest community is in Maribor, where the children's classes are. Just think, the Baha'i children of Ljubljana go to Maribor for the children's classes. This is a two hour trip, one way. Today we met three of the believers in the Kranj area. Alexandra became a Baha'i at the same time as Maruska. (During a time when there was a very active Baha'i Youth Workshop in Ljubljana.) Mahir was a Persian pioneer in Croatia when the two met and decided to marry. They live in a small village, outside of Kranj. Together with their new baby, they share a house with Alexandra's parents and her brother. This is the traditional way in Slovenia. The village in the northeastern part of the country, towards Lake Bled. It is very beautiful, set in the hills, with the mountains nearby. (see pix) While having lunch, we watched three people parachuting off one of the hill tops.
Alexandra and Mahir have been strong supporters of Josh since his year of service. I was excited to have the opportunity to meet them and express my appreciation. It was abundantly clear that even Alexandra's parents have enjoyed the time to get to know Josh and watching him grow to become a part of their family. There will be no concern for Josh feeling isolated or alone when he and Maruska finally make their residence in Slovenia.
Again, we had a picnic lunch with more food than we could eat. Charles decided that the pork in Slovenia is some of the best he has eaten. In just the short time we had to spent with this family, we felt a bond and camaraderie that we hope to continue to nurture in the future. (see pix)
We spent a very brief time visiting with a Baha'i in Kranj, Marianna. Another friendship we hope to return to and deepen some day. Our time with Marianna was cut short so that we could get back to Ljubljana in time to pick Damian up from his day of adventure.
Damian spent the day with Maruska as she was preparing for the BIG DAY. None-the-less, they found some time to hang out in town, especially at the Piercing Cult. This is where we finally found Damian. He had found his place in Ljubljana.
The evening's events were more individualized. Charles and Damian spent a quiet evening at the apartment. Karen spent the evening at Maruska's helping her and her parents get ready for the wedding, such as putting the crocheted butterflies in to the booklets. Bob and Zack joined a few others in having a silly time for Josh's bachelor party.
True to form, this party was not very traditional. It was not wild or crazy, but it was rather silly. There was no ball and chain to put on his ankle, so they simulated concrete shoes with large boxes to go on his feet. He also had to make a “tuxedo” out of newspaper, and a top hat. Look at this handsome groom. Who wouldn't want to marry him? (see pix) Wait a minute! What is he standing in front of? They told me it was good clean fun! (Laughing Out Loud) |
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| Day 5, Wednesday, 7/25/07 |
[Aug. 17th, 2007|07:07 am] |
Today we spent out day as tourists. We went to two sites in Slovenia, the Postojna caves and the Predjama castle. The Postojna caves is over 20 kilmeters long, although we can tour only about 5 kilometers of it. It is a “Karst” or “Carso” cave system that is created by the draining of limestone creating stalactites and stalagmites. (see pix) We went into the tour area on a small train, then guided through the caves. The Postojna cave is “the longest cave system in the country as well as one of its top tourism sites” (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Postojna_cave). As with many aspects of the history of Slovenia (and most countries in Europe) the sites we see in the caves are the result of many years of differing leadership and control throughout the years. At the entrance of the cave it has been blackened by torches, as well as a fire caused by partisans during WWII. There is also a concert hall that can hold up to 10,000 people. I find it interesting how they don't eliminate the historical use of the caves, but take on an ever changing attitude of “we don't do this any more”. (http://www.showcaves.com/english/si/showcaves/Postojna.html)
Throughout our visit to Slovenia, we went to three castles. The Ljubljana castle, the castle at Lake Bled, and Predjama castle. Although we didn't “tour” the castle at Lake Bled, Predjamski Grad (the Predjama castle) is our favorite of the three. The Ljubljana castle seems to have been stripped of much of its “authenticity” and made way for local use and tourism. The castle at Lake Bled is also very tourist in feel, although it appears to have recreated the “ancient ways”. For example, they have a working printing press in the style of the “olden days”. As you will see in the pictures of the wedding, they continue to have characters of the “olden days” as well (such as the lord and lady of the castle).
The Predjamski Grad (or as we refer to it as Helmsdeep) was built “in a 123-metre-high cavern below an overhanging cliff and above the karst swallow hole of the Lokva stream” (see pix). Similar to Helmsdeep, as described in the Lord of the Rings, Predjamski Grad is built into the rock and a cave system. It has a history of holding off a siege for over a year. It was a “safe home in an unsafe environment”. It even has an escape route in the back of the castle through the caves (see pix). Below the castle is a cave system that was used as the stables, and has “the great hall”. Predjamski Grad holds jousting festivals, and such, in an attempt to recreate “a picture of the castle as it was after its renovation in the 16th century” (Predjama castle tour guide). We purchased tickets to go through both the castle and the caves. Going though the Predjamski Grad was a self guided tour. There is a printed tour guide that explains how the castle was used. I could imagine the daily lives of the people living in there (see pix).
Here we accomplished our second coup. Not realizing the time crunch with the scheduled guided tour of the caves, we bought the discounted tickets for both. Once we realized we wouldn't be able to use the tickets, I went to the ticket booth to try and get a refund. The lady said no, but that we could try to sell them to someone else. Right as I was turning away, someone came to the booth. I asked if they were buying tickets to the cave, they said yes. With (a lot of) help from the ticket lady and Maruska, I sold the tickets. The ticket lady got me full price for them. So, our tour of the castle ended up costing us less than if we had purchased the tickets just for the castle.
We had to leave in time to spend the evening with Fonza and Vida. Maruska and her parents live together in a two bedroom apartment, in a large complex northeast of Ljubljana center. This will be our second or third time in their neighborhood, although our first time in their apartment. Their apartment is decorated with items from around the world. Much in a manner we would like our home decorated. Maruska did an admirable job translating for everyone.
Fonza is quick to laugh, enjoys American movies, and is very athletic. He knows a little English, to speak a phrase or two for himself. Between Josh and Fonza they were able to spend an afternoon together making one of the dishes for the picnic we had.
Vida is very hospitable and nurturing. She provided plenty of snacks and was concerned with our happiness and well being. Zack helped assure that all of the watermelon was eaten. Vida doesn't know very much English. She probably understands more than she speaks, which would put her capacity with English greater than our capacity with Slovene. It was a lovely evening, that was limited by the language barrier.
We left at the same time Josh and Maruska went to meet their photographer. This left Bob, Charles, Karen, and Zack to get ourselves home. As I will describe in more detail for Thursday, this is easier said than done.
And so ends another full day of our vacation. |
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| Day 3, Monday, 7/23/07 |
[Aug. 11th, 2007|08:41 pm] |
We have the morning to get acquainted with our surroundings. We are staying in a two bedroom, upstairs apartment. It is in an area more recently developed, with some evidence of incorporating older farm land. The apartment is called Domacija which is a farm with a cafe attached. There are many fruit trees in the yards of the neighbors. I imagine this land used to be a large orchard. On the main road there is new construction of what looks like a modern apartment complex. Josh calls it a “Space Cow”. (“How do you know it isn't a space cow? Have you ever seen a space cow before?”)
It is on the southern boundary of Ljubljana. To the west of us is the river. To the east is a new shopping complex. To the north is a botanical garden. Botanični vrt Ljubljana (Botanical Gardens) was “established in 1810, the Ljubljana Botanical Gardens are Slovenia's oldest cultural, scientific and educational institution operating uninterruptedly ever since its foundation” (http://slovenia.hotels.hu/info/ljubljana/attractions.en.html). It is associated with the university. Dad and I found it interesting that originally it was associated with the philosophy department. You can visit the website of the garden at http://www.botanicni-vrt.si (be forewarned, it is in Slovene.)
In the morning we made a short trip into Ljubljana for supplies. This was the beginning of our first significant problem during the trip. As I was buying the groceries, my credit card was rejected. Fortunately, I had an alternate that worked. How am I going to figure out the problem with my credit card? Unfortunately, the Skype system on the computer of the apartment didn't work. We had to make an international phone call on the apartment's phone. The credit card risk department had put a hold on our credit card because “there were some purchases that they wanted to check”. Not only had they checked each charge we made in reserving the lodging and car for this trip (at which time we mentioned that we were taking a trip to Europe), they wanted to check the purchases we made in Europe. Of course, we weren't home when they called us, so they put a hold on our card. When I asked the bank representative if “we will have any more problems using our card?” I was told “no, ma'am, there shouldn't be any more problems”.
We had our second casualty today, as well. Taking the advice from friends to pack light, I told everyone to pack just a few changes of clothes and I'll do laundry. After I started the washing machine of the apartment with our clothes, I noticed that the handle was broken. I notified the daughter of the landlords. She couldn't do anything about it, and we are going to have to wait until her parents came back on Friday. Our clothes were hostage in the washing machine. We kept the clothes spinning, so that they would be as dry as possible and in motion, to keep from developing mold. This appears to have worked well enough. (Although I had one outfit that was ruined by the extended stay in moisture.)
All of this was inconsequential when compared to the wonderful time we had meeting our new family. Vida and Fonza (Maruska's parents) hosted a family picnic in a beautiful forest at a cabin (see pix).  This was our time to meet the family (see pix): (from left to right) Fonza, Tama (Maruska's grandmother), Josh, Maruska, Karen, Bob, Zack, Charles, Tina (Maruska's sister), and Vida. Not in this picture are Damian, Spela (Maruska's good friend), and Gorasd (Maruska's brother). Keep your eye's open, you may see them in later pictures. The food was great. We discovered a new family favorite. It is like the Slovene hamburger, called Chavapchichi. It is ground beef and pork rolled to a small sausage size and grilled. There was lots of food and we all over ate.
We also shared presents. Karen and Bob received a beautiful picture book about Slovenija. Karen got a dragon pin. Bob got a key chain (with a dragon on it). Damian and Zack got Ljublana t-shirts and dragon key chains, and Charles got a traditional block painting of traditional bee keeping. It was special for Charles to receiving this particular painting, as he can remember when his father kept bees in a similar fashion. Vida and Fonza were given a ceramic bowl (from Charles and Vida was give a southwest American style hot plate. Fonza got a Portland “City of Roses” t-shirt, Tina and Gorasd received picture blocks that has pictures of Portland and Oregon on them, and Tama received a tea pot. The tea pot was special because it was to Maruska's grandmother from Josh's grandmother's tea pot collection. Also, as it was announced at the picnic, Tama dries her own tea leaves, which she will be able to use in her new tea pot.
There is a river that runs through the park, with beautiful woods. Charles, Bob, Josh, Maruska, and Zack took a walk to the river (see pix).  Damian was suffering from jet lag and spent most of the picnic in the car, sleeping. It was a wonderful evening of socializing, eating, and appreciating the woods. Before we left, we played a game of Bocce Ball with Gorasd (see pix).
 Gorasd won after coming from behind of Charles who was winning most of the game.
It was a very full and enjoyable day. Most of us were still adjusting to the jet lag. We were still falling asleep early and waking early. |
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| Day 2, Sunday |
[Aug. 11th, 2007|09:05 am] |
(Wait a minute, what happened to Saturday? Yeah, that's called jet lag.)
The shuttle to the airport worked just right. We arrived to Stansted airport, ready for our final leg to Ljubljana and our (new) family.
Going into the Stansted airport we found a sea of people (see pix). Grateful for Bob's lobbying to be very early, we waited in line to check in, then a very long line for security. Here we have our first causalities. Although there were no concerns on the American flights, Charles had to give up his trusty toe nail clippers and Karen had to give up her crochet hooks. (How will Karen finish the butterfly bookmarks?!) Fortunately, Fonza lent Karen crochet hooks that were his mothers. In that collection there was one that was just the right size. With these sacrifices to the airport gods, there were no significant issues with the airport or airlines on the remaining of the trip.
We were finally in Slovenija and meeting our new family. We were met at the airport by Maruska and her mum (Vida) and her dad (Fonza). It was wonderful to give Maruska a big hug. It was nice to hear her interact with her parents. I rode with our new family to our temporary apartment.
Although it had been only a month and a half since Josh left the States for Slovenija, when he saw Zack, he sized him up and was taken by how much taller Zack was. It was a proud moment for Zack to stand beside his big brother, being recognized as taller than him. None-the-less, Josh was able to maintain the status of “big” brother. Although Josh had acknowledged earlier that Zack was the tallest, when the boys went to get into the rental car, Zack called for front seat on the basis of “longest legs in front”. With laughter and respect, Josh vetoed his right and Zack deferred.
When we arrived to Slovenija, the weather was hot and humid. What I would consider good summer weather in Illinois. A little hotter and more humid than our Oregonians are familiar with. But, there were no complaints regarding the weather. A thunder storm and down pour interrupted only one field trip, but resulted in watching the light show and a double rainbow (see pix).  It was a worthy trade off. The apartment was just right for our needs. Again, the simplest things created more “cultural shock” than expected. Both Damian and Zack locked themselves in the bathroom since the doors and locks are slightly different from what we have in the United States. At least there was an air conditioner to counter balance and give relief from the heat, and a balcony to look out on the country side and visit.
We had arrived at our destination. We had our place to stay and good options to get around. We were only blocks from a bus stop and had a rental car (since Slovenija drives on the right side of the road). We also had our own personal tour guides (Josh & Maruska). The trip was set. We settled, unpacked and rested before our days of site seeing and preparing for the wedding. YEAH we are here! |
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| Trip to Slovenija, Day 1 (and 2) |
[Aug. 10th, 2007|07:28 pm] |
It's Friday, July 20, 2007. We are on our way to Slovenia and Josh's wedding. “We” include, Bob, Karen, Damian, and Zack Lynch, and Charles Tucker (Karen's dad). Fortunately, it was no problem convincing Bob that we didn't need to leave the house at 7am to catch our 11:30 flight out of Portland. This will be a recurring negotiation throughout the trip. After a change of planes in Cincinnati, Ohio, we spent a day in London. Our first adventure was getting to our hostel for Saturday night.
To give some background; our original flight plan was to make a connecting flight in London from one airport to another in a four hour window. During my research on how this would be done it was concluded that it would be less stressful and less expensive to spend the night in London then to try and make the connection.
It is also helpful to understand the layout of the airports. There are four airports that service London: Heathrow (the best known), Luton (a small one), Gatwick (where we were flying in and out of the USA, which is southeast of London), and Stansted (where we were flying in and out for Slovenia and northeast). To drive directly from Gatwick to Stansted is over 60 miles. According to the research I had done on the Internet, there are three methods of getting from Gatwick to Stansted:
1. Shuttle bus, L25.00 per person (or about $250 total) and would take 3 hours.
2. Airport express trains through London, L30.00 per person (or about $300 total) and would take about 2 hours.
3. Taxi van, L215 total (or about $430 total) and would take about 1 ½ hours (traffic permitting).
Keep in mind, we are traveling with five people with differing temperaments. If you know my family you have a clue just how differing we can be. It has also come to my attention how influential it is when traveling with five, compared to just one or two. I had figured that it might have been possible with hope and prayer but, with the pessimists in my group we figured they counteracted the hope. Then, with the recent terrorist activity in London we figured they counteracted the prayer. It was decided it would be better to be safe than sorry.
Since we changed the flight to the following day, we had the time and wished to save money. So, it was decided to take public transit from the Gatwick airport to our hostel near Stansted. The short story is that this took about seven hours to accomplish. And, no, we didn't do any site-seeing on the way.
The first coup won was when we purchased the train tickets. They were considerably less than expected. Also, they got us all the way to Chelmsford (the town near our hostel). Overall, we didn't have to wait long for any of the connections throughout London. The train ride to London provided the first sites of architecture that I associate with the United Kingdom (see pix).
In answer to “why no site seeing?”, imagine this situation; After traveling on a plane for no less than 12 hours already, then a (crowded) train ride to central London, we emerged from the train station with our three suitcases, two camera cases, and three backpacks. We find a sea of people and vehicles in what appeared to be pandemonium (see picture). The sidewalks were narrow by nature. Then, add the number of people. Some members of my crew were already done with the adventure. The focus became, get to “home base”, then see what kind of adventure we want to go on.
It turned out, getting to the hostel was enough of an adventure. Based on the information I had, we needed to get to the Picadilly Underground station. Thanks to the kindness of others, we found the bus and correct stop. It took two trains in the London Underground, to find the train to Chelmsford. I am grateful for how well my family went along with it all. It took only slight reminders to correct frustrations. For example, after it was announced that one of the trains was going to be delayed due to “switch problems”, the first train that came was too full for all of us to get on. Bob needed just a simple reminder that when the first train is full, its follower usually has more room. Bob recognized nature of public transit and that was exactly what happened.
It was in Chelmsford that my tolerance was starting to wear thin. I was also sensing that everyone was at the end of their patience. I had promised the guys that once we got to Chelmsford there would be a shuttle to take us to our hostel. Instead, as I re-read my notes, it was discovered that “a local bus” would take us to the hotel where we checked in, and a shuttle takes us from the hotel to the hostel. We had one more transfer of public transportation to make.
Not only did I not know which “local bus” to take, I couldn't figure out how to call the hotel and ask them. I expected barriers maneuvering around in other countries. But, I expected the barriers to be something like language, systems (like figuring out the transit system), or customs. I never thought I would be stumped by trying to make a phone call. I didn't know which numbers to use. I would use either too many, or not enough. So, I couldn't call the hotel to get help.
We found the bus station. When I went to find which bus we wanted, the information booth was closed. By this time, we had all traveled for about 19 straight hours. I asked the first bus driver I found, “do you have time for a question?” “I leave in 2 minutes. What can I help you with.” I told him, “I'm afraid my family will tar and feather me if I don't get them to our hotel soon. Do you know which bus goes to the Bushel and Sack?” He thought about it for a minute and said “I know where that is. I'll be going right past it.” I couldn't believe it. My first try, and it was the right bus. We all hopped on the bus, with our three suitcases, two camera bags, and three backpacks, and he took us to the Bushel and Sack.
We spent the rest of the day and evening, relaxing and enjoying the small town of Great Dunmow (see pix). (It is now Saturday night, 7/21.) |
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| Keep on Treckin' |
[Aug. 25th, 2006|06:40 am] |
We continue to maintain the kitchen. This is our big commitment. We are very pleased that it is working. I was able to clean our bedroom as well. This will help with the unpacking this weekend. I want to focus on unpacking, and getting everything into its place (for as much as we can do that). We still have a few things that need to be figured out (like a medicine cabinet in the bathroom, and better storage in the laundry room).
I have to unpack my office because I have too many projects I have been ignoring. I have this great office, and I haven't done anything with it yet. |
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| Hey Look, I've Got My Own Identity |
[May. 23rd, 2006|08:23 am] |
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I have come to realize that I have been commenting enough to other people's post, that I don't want to be confused as Bob, and to have my own identity. So, I went ahead and established my own account. We'll see if I actually do much with it, other than just comment to other people. |
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