tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-119220732024-03-07T03:48:44.250-05:00Tales of the Traveling BelieverRecording and sharing my experiences onscreen. Writing about the Washington DC metro area, Christianity, current events, travel, the local church scene, and my life adventures...And, yes, any tales, observations, & opinions may be included.Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.comBlogger362125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-57440417392092553502014-02-06T12:00:00.000-05:002014-02-06T12:00:05.147-05:00Reflective thoughts in 2014<p>It's been a number of years since I posted to this blog, and it has been a wonderful adventure since that last post in 2010. We're on our 2nd month into this new year 2014, and life is getting much better, overall. Very exciting to see what the Lord has in store for the rest of the year. I don't know whether I will ever continue posting here after this one reflective post...I think it's sometimes good to reflect and review what happened in the past as I go over each post.</p><p>During the last couple years, I went to Haiti on a 7-day mission trip and after that I led a very small group to a 13-day mission trip in the Philippines. Both were challenging and rewarding and taught me different things. For one, it challenged my patience. No, it expanded my sense of patience. It made me realize that I'm still in process, that sanctification process as people say. BUT, I'm further along in that process and it's very good to know that I have been transformed.</p><p>One disappointing thing, I may just be hard on myself. I expected my sense of faith now, although strong at times, would be much larger and much deeper. I've grown in a lot of ways, and my faith walk has grown, but it isn't where I want it. It is something that I'm working on, as well as other Christians. Maybe it's something I should express through this blog. What do you think?</p><p>[I don't expect anyone to answer since I probably lost my few followers over the years. LOL!]</p><p>We'll see what comes next. Like I said earlier, 2014 is becoming a great year. I have hope and expectation for greater things to happen.</p><p>I leave you with a favorite Old Testament verse - <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+29%3A11&version=AMP">Jeremiah 29:11</a></p>
Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-5131642584434859092010-09-17T10:20:00.001-04:002010-09-17T10:23:30.912-04:00Return of the TravelerHi everyone, <br /><br />Just a short note to say that I'm really (really) doing okay, and I'm celebrating over 2 1/2 years of sobreity. I thank the Lord for His faithfulness and kindness to keep me 'above water'.<br /><br />Someday, maybe even very soon, I will come back to blogging on a regular basis. We'll see how that works out. <br /><br />God bless each one of you and thanks for your encouragement, comments, and replies!<br /><br />Signed, the Believing TravelerTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-70917042112958566322009-04-25T11:16:00.001-04:002009-04-25T11:17:35.102-04:00A milestone of sortsLast month, I celebrated just over a year of sobriety! Oh, yes!Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-90791916634890319612009-04-24T13:54:00.002-04:002009-04-24T13:57:18.872-04:00facebook, schmacebookOkay, after several e-mail requests and pleadings from friends, I have now added a Facebook profile. So there. It isn't the first time I created a profile, but I lost my password and I created a *sorta* pseudonym. <br /><br />I don't plan to post much. I'll lurk around.Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-16713201496171104872009-01-29T23:51:00.003-05:002009-01-30T00:03:04.670-05:00More changes for the new year<div align="justify">Well, after much thought and time I have decided to keep this blog, at least for a little while longer. <br /><br />With that decision, I felt some changes needed to occur. So, I have changed the blog title from <span style="font-weight:bold;">"More Musings of a Meandering Believer"</span> to <span style="font-weight:bold;">"Tales of the Traveling Believer"</span> to pattern from my lifestyle changes brought up during the last year and a half and in regards to my relationships and life direction.<br /><br />Since starting this blog, I felt that my walk with God and my personal growth have grown by leaps and bounds. There have been plenty of mistakes and regret, but there have been periods of great joy. From these life events, I have grown stronger. In the future, I expect (and hope) that my walk and personal growth will expand.<br /><br />Peace.</div>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-12474729406234535672009-01-11T23:05:00.003-05:002009-01-11T23:34:00.349-05:00Never say never<p align="justify">As you can already tell, it has been several months since I wrote the last blog entry. There were several times when I wanted to write a post, but it got to feel monotonous and tiresome when I looked at the blank screen in front of me. I did not have the energy to pour out. Funny thing, several times I started to write a post but never finished. I don't even know that I want to release to the public. Maybe someday... So much has occurred. <br /><br />So much history has happened --- A new president, an African-American president-elect. Financial crises which has affected so many, including me. So many significant personal life events and other changes. Such as a new job at a new location.<br /><br />I've got to thank God for the wonderful things that He has done for me during this time. He has been ever faithful. One thing that I have clearly learned: thankfulness. Saying that, I want thank you, my faithful readers for sending kind notes, thoughts and prayers, and e-mails. I hope you have been well. I have been working on myself since my time away from this blog. Even before, during late 2007 and early 2008, the old demons that I refuse to leave buried years ago were brought up new. And, I'm not just talking about the basic up and downs of general life. <br /><br />It had taken much prayer, support from friends and family, yet another recovery program, and the mercy of God to help me get to this point, but I have good news to report. I am doing and feeling much better. So much better. The healing started by releasing the unforgiveness in my heart for those in the church that wronged me.<br /><br />Since my recovery has been going well for these last months, the thought about deleting this blog has been rolling around in my head and starting a new one on a different site. Besides this one, I have additional blogs, microblogs, etc that I write for. Since 2009 has started, I feel a new start. Who knows? I may continue with this blog or start another one. <br /><br />Let's see what God has in store for me. It's safe to say that I'm excited where He is taking me. And a belated Happy 2009 to you. </p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-8129814854576824482008-05-08T15:18:00.003-04:002008-05-08T15:27:57.427-04:00A is for addiction<p align="justify"><i>Addiction is a difficult behavior to deal with. Addiction recovery is a difficult process to go through. </i><br /><br />There, I said it.<br /><br />People would think that addiction, any type of addiction, would only hurt or affect the individual. Not true. It also affects those people in that person's life. Whether it is family, friends, loved ones, or work mates, people can tell there is a change in behaviors and moods. I didn't realize it until now.<br /><br />So, even with the difficulties surrounding what I call the Big "A", I am moving forward and charging along. My life goes on.<br /><br />On another note, I have the nervous jitters. Artomatic 2008 opens up tomorrow afternoon @ 12 to the public. Last night, I finally completed hanging up my photos and cleaning the exhibit space. I was so relieved that it was done; I called "C" about feeling relieved. <br /><br />Right about now, I'm feeling my stomach aching and it just started 20 minutes ago. In my head, I know that everything is going to be okay. </p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-68139491529166030832008-05-04T14:45:00.004-04:002008-05-04T14:51:07.492-04:00God is in the details<p align="justify">So, the images for the Arlington Public Library - Central Campus "Social Justice" Art showcase are on display finally. I have been playing phone tag with the coordinator overseeing the showcase. <br /><br />Also, I am still finishing up the display for the Artomatic exhibit. So far, it looks great. I went with the "Soft Denim" color (blueish gray) and a semi-gloss black paint in the middle of the wall. Thank God for Cyndy and Karen for their help. They assisted in the conceptualization, direction, and painting of the wall space.<br /><br />I need to finish up with a few brush strokes to cover any gaps or holes. Then, I will be signing and picking up images today and this upcoming week. So many more details to go...Did I tell you that I'm getting a bit tired. It may be the weather adjustment to warmer temperatures, but I will *more than* survive. <br /><br />Have a blessed week and I hope that you are enjoying the warm weather. </p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-43560804628695128092008-04-29T16:31:00.003-04:002008-04-29T16:35:44.998-04:00Not everything is free...<p align="justify">But, sometimes one can find a deal! <br /><br />The blessing of free stuff is a wonderful event. What am I talking about? If you don't already know, it's <a href="http://www.benjerry.com/">Ben & Jerry's</a> Free Ice Cream Cone Offer today.<br /><br />Yup, even Traveler waited for 15 minutes in line (along with colleagues) to get his scoop of Strawberry Cheesecake ice cream on a cone. Oh, and what a wonderful thing! <br /><br />It makes up for missing <a href="http://www.starbucks.com/">Starbucks'</a> Free coffee offer a couple weeks ago. </p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-33643673997514143392008-04-28T18:24:00.002-04:002008-04-28T18:30:55.231-04:00Did you get yours?<p align="justify">This morning I have been hearing blurbs and listening to 30-second newscasts about the IRS direct depositing economic stimulus payments today. They started the process a few days earlier than expected. For those (like me), I sent a paper return and I won't start receiving my check until <b>after May 9th.</b> <br /><br />Oh, rats! That $600 and part of my refund will got to purchase of new camera equipment and starting my new website. <br /><br />Yes, folks. You heard it here first. Traveler will be creating a photography website. I already have a template, but I need to work on the segments and the navigation parts. I am so looking forward to the development of the site. <br /><br /></p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-20203078687597547942008-04-22T20:01:00.004-04:002008-04-22T20:18:43.859-04:00Lemonade Time<p align="justify">Rough. Things may not be going well at the office during this time. Business travel has been suspended, but my photo submissions to the Arlington Public Library's juried showcase, "Social Justice", has been accepted.<br /><br />Last Friday, my old friend and former colleague Melynda and I met for lunch at an Asian restaurant near the office building. We have known each other since she was in high school, when she visited my college as a prospective freshman. So long ago...<br /><br />I did not realize that I needed to get away from the office for some personal time, until we talked at length. I got some relief out of that. Then, I thought that I needed to take more time off.<br /><br />Last Saturday, Cyndy and I went to the office building where the Artomatic 2008 showcase will be held, and we examined the space and made measurements. I did not realize how much planning and expenses were needed for a mere 8 x 12 exhibit space....At least, I now have some idea about the display.<br /><br />Last Sunday, Alexis and I met for lunch at the local Arlington IHOP for some fellowship time. It was great to see her, talk about the latest events, and commissurate on the latest mishaps in our lives.<br /><br />Also, this morning I got a surprise call from Roz Poz. Roz never calls! So, that made my day!<br /><br />I will be honest. It was great to get some female attention, even if they were with friends. Oh, you know what I mean. <br /><br />More details on the photography stuff will be posted soon. It looks like things are swinging upward, at least for the moment. </p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-12307208278762334552008-04-16T16:29:00.004-04:002008-04-28T18:33:29.973-04:00Art exhibition considerations<p align="justify">Now that I am registered to exhibit at Artomatic 2008 the hard part has begun.<br /><br />I'm considering the following titles as themes to the exhibit space: "The color of mercy" or "The color of compassion"<br /><br />I may or may not letter the themes to the top of the exhibit space. Another thought is to paint letters of my name to the partition. In consideration that the 8 x 12 space is not so large to display a great number of images. Various orange colors painted to the wall can (I hope) entice visitors to the exhibit space. (One large paint can should do the trick.) Something intense to say, "Caution" or "Be Careful" or "Be aware". It is supposed to be something similar to an orange yield signs in construction sites.<br /><br />The images will be directed as "social justice" or "social documentary" type of images. Six to 9 images along the wall will be installed. Black thin frames, and black, gray, or off-white matting to emphasize the intense background color.<br /><br />Depending on the other exhibitors stationed near my wall space, a black carpet may be included.<br /><br />Overall, the cost/expense for this exhibition is a priority. That's all for now.<br /><br />Who knows. I may change my mind. It is still in the conceptual stage (brainstorming).</p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-17939907130852121152008-04-14T05:56:00.005-04:002008-04-14T06:39:24.282-04:00News in review: Democratic candidates attend The Compassion Forum; Obama's Pastor gives sermon in Norfolk, VA<p align="justify">Last night, the two Democratic candidates for President <a href="http://www.messiah.edu/compassion_forum/">attended a faith forum</a> at Pennsylvania's Messiah College as they reached out (read: fight for) to delegates and state voters. Both candidates talked separately about God's presence in their lives, abortion, abstinence, and human rights in relation to faith. Also, Obama was asked again about the remarks of his ex-pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright. You can read more about the forum after clicking on the <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24100225/">link</a>.<br /><br />Unfortunately, Republican candidate John McCain did not participate in the forum. If you missed the live event on CNN, the <a href="http://www.ccn.tv/index.php">Church Communication Network (CCN)</a> will host a broadcast on April 20, the Sunday before the Pennsylvania primary<br /><br />Barack Obama's ex-pastor gave his <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24098613/">first sermon</a> at Methodist Baptist Church in Norfolk, VA since the the furor began when he was cited by the news as causing controversy over sermon remarks. By the way, he has been selected as a key speaker for Detroit's NAACP Annual Fight for Freedom Fund dinner. More details found <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24054487/">here</a>.</p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-45341833890899532482008-04-12T18:26:00.002-04:002008-04-14T06:37:41.304-04:00It's all about the art, man!<p align="justify"><a href="http://www.artomatic.org/">Artomatic 2008</a> will start shortly next month. If you don't know about this art venue, it is a month-long multimedia arts event that draws together visual artists, musicians and performers and brings their work to the local area without charge.<br /><br />In other words, Artomatic provides a forum for the Washington DC area's artists to convene, perform and exhibit, strengthening the visibility, cohesion, and marketplace of Washington's arts community, with minimal expenses to the artists as well.<br /><br />Last year, I attended this free event on a weekend with my friend C. She and I loved it so much to see these art exhibits that we were excited about attending the next annual Artomatic event. She asked if I would take part next year. My reply, "I would love to do that", thinking that it would not happen.<br /><br />Well, a year later, I have registered as a 2-D artist and and selected my wall space where I can show off some photography images. Not until I arrived to the building orientation did I realize that there was a competition for the larger spaces. I was fortunate to catch the last exterior 8 x 12 wall partition on the 11th floor. The interior wall spaces were slightly smaller.<br /><br />Now I struggle what to do with the space.<br /><br />* Which photos to display (color, black and white, or abstract/minimal)?<br />* What kind of theme to tie in (social documentary, street photography, or architectural)?<br />* How to display the pieces (colored versus neutral backgrounds, whether to include furniture and/or carpet)?<br />* Etc., etc...<br /><br />Next week starts the installation of my exhibit space. After signing up for Artomatic and picking a specified space, I just realized how much more time and effort goes to art exhibitions.<br /><br />I am thankful to God for exposure to exhibit marketing and promotions at the workplace. That skill has helped me with this "art space" evaluation and preparation.<br /><br />Also, I want to admit that I got such a rush after I chose my space. Yeah, I am excited.<br /><br />And, I have not been excited in a very long time.</p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-43714336724786975292008-03-31T16:10:00.001-04:002008-04-16T16:22:23.366-04:00<p align="justify">Life can be very hard. It can get even harder when you stray or run away intentionally or unintentionally from the righteous path. There can be shame, depression, discouragement. Even at times, when one wants to do the right thing, the hurdles (or walls) seem unsurmountable.<br /><br />Although we make mistakes in our lives, believe that God can pull you through. God is bigger than anything that we ever do, bigger than anything that man can ever do, and bigger than any errors, mistakes, inequity, or sin. Read Psalms 55:8-11 as an example.<br /><br />Believe by walking upright.<br />Believe by walking in faith.<br />Believe by standing tall through the mire.<br /><br />Tomorrow will be a different day.<br /><br />Scripture of the Day: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=2&chapter=33&verse=19&version=31&context=verse">Exodus 33:19</a> (New International Version)<br /><br /><br /><b><sup>19</sup> And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. </b><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-74559351145908073682008-03-28T14:58:00.001-04:002008-04-13T15:13:20.631-04:00Through it all<p align="justify">The days are getting longer. That means spring is finally arriving. It also means for me that the struggles will get harder. With God's presence and prayers and support from family and friends, I will get through it.<br /><br />Even if or when I fall...<br /><br />God is a faithful God. He will never forsake me. That is what a relationship with Christ does. The relationship sustains me, and I can look forward to the future.<br /></p><br /><b>Scripture of the Day: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%203:3-4;&version=51;">Romans 3:3-4</a> (New Living Translation)</b><br /><br /><sup>3</sup>True, some of them were unfaithful;<br />but just because they were unfaithful,<br />does that mean God will be unfaithful?<br /><sup>4</sup> Of course not!<br />Even if everyone else is a liar,<br />God is true.<br />As the Scriptures say about him,<br /><br /> <p align="center">“You will be proved right in what you say,<br /> and you will win your case in court.”</p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-60949530898363753472008-03-23T14:37:00.004-04:002008-04-13T14:54:06.454-04:00Happy (Western) Easter<p align="justify">Thankfulness and grateful(ness) to a wonderful God who cared so much for me is how I feel right now. There are times when I don't feel that way, but I know that He is close to those who know Him. Easter time is a great time to remember All (everything) that He is done for this world, including myself.<br /><br />As He was resurrected on Easter, we are now restored, rejuvenated and rejoicing in His victory. As He is the Victor, we partake in the victory. Let's hope that we, meaning me, will always remember that.<br /><br />After church service today, friends and I are going to try a new Italian restaurant in Alexandria, off Van Dorn Street, for a late brunch and fellowship.<br /><br />Happy Easter to you and yours. And for those who are Orthodox believers, I wish you an early Easter (April 27th). </p><br /><b>Scripture of the Day: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%203:16-18;&version=31;">John 3:16-18</a> (New International Version)</b><br /><p align="center"><br /><sup>16</sup>For God so loved the world<br />that he gave his one and only Son,<br />that whoever believes in him<br />shall not perish but have eternal life.<br /><sup>17</sup>For God did not send his Son into the world<br />to condemn the world,<br />but to save the world through him.<br /><sup>18</sup>Whoever believes in him is not condemned,<br />but whoever does not believe<br />stands condemned already<br />because he has not believed<br />in the name of God's one and only Son.<br /><br /></p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-80366551388982080572008-03-18T20:24:00.001-04:002008-04-10T20:39:17.525-04:00What the . . .<p align="justify">While I parked my car off the street near the office on a recent Saturday night, both side mirrors were stolen. Please note that my mirrors were fastened to an electrical system in which I could systematically move the mirrors up and down and left to right.<br />Why would someone take the time to steal the mirrors<br /><br />Two amazing things happened, I thought.<br /><br />1) The "plastic" casing was still attached to my car, but no mirrors. Your first thought may be "why". Yeah, I thought about it myself. The thieves took the time to detach the mirrors from the wiring without pulling or breaking the wire casing.<br /><br />2) As I checked the rest of my car, I noticed nothing else was stolen or vandalized. Not even a scratch was made to it....<br /><br />Totally weird. Now I have to shell out $150.00 (approx. $74.00 each) for replacements.<br /><br />So, if you see a couple 2000 Ford Taurus side mirrors for sale at a local DC pawn shop or on sale at E-bay, please let me know. Depending on the price, I may want to buy them back. Thanks.<br /><br /><b>Note to self: Unless you know that the neighborhood is a safe place, do not park your car in DC after dark!</b></p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-54364220667407467662008-03-07T14:09:00.004-05:002008-04-03T16:50:56.376-04:00Life can be funny that way...<p align="justify">My colleague's condolence service was held on Saturday. As for these types of events, it was not really that bad. Hindu tradition dictates that the body be cremated within 24 hours, if possible. When my colleague died on a Friday afternoon. He was cremated on the following Saturday in Cleveland. He was there, waiting on a lung transplant. So, there was no viewing of the body. <br /><br />I met a few of my colleagues at his house, where the rememberance event was held. I met his beautiful daughters and his son. They were in great spirits and holding very well. I was saddened to find out that his wife was not doing well. She and other women were lying down on the sofas. She was barely able to stand up when I met her. I told her that she should sit down and I whispered to her, "my apologies for your loss." I knew these words were not enough, but I felt that they had to be said.<br /><br />Staff members in our organization sponsored informal donations to the <a href="http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=22542">American Lung Association</a> and <a href="http://www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org/ipf.htm">IPF</a>. His eldest daughter was very touched by our donation. She nearly cried.<br /><br />At his home, I noticed that shoes were lying on the floor of the garage and front pathway. Then, I saw a note asking visitors to take off their shoes when they entered the house. After I took of my shoes, I went inside and the immediate family was dressed in traditional garb. (It reminded me of spending time at relatives' homes, too.)<br /><br />In their family room, a screen presentation of photos was playing against the back wall. I could see many photos of him in various times during his life from wedding photos to recent pictures. I was tickled to see him dressed in various styles from Eastern to Western, bell bottoms to power suits.<br /><br />It made me appreciate the time to know him as a fellow colleague and a wonderful friend. Every so often, he would enquire, "Traveler, when are you going to settle down?" or "When are you going to buy a house?" When he approached me with questions like these, I would be reminded of distant relatives asking the same thing during various family functions.<br /><br />Before we left the service, his family made samosas for us to bring to work on the following Monday. On Mondays, he would share food that his wife made. I was surprised by their generosity. Also, they served a refreshing and warm Indian tea.<br /><br />I was surprised to think of him as family, but I did. I had known him for over a decade. Knowing this person for that long does lend itself to relationships like this one. Life is funny that way...<br /><br />For the upcoming month, his youngest daughter will be getting married. So, life goes on.<br /><br /></p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-42586713337361314062008-02-25T10:11:00.004-05:002008-02-25T10:45:59.729-05:00Death Be Not Proud.<p align="justify">This morning I found out that a Hindu colleague had died over the weekend. I am feeling quite distraught, and I am going through a bit of shock at this very moment. Wow. </p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-63866281191700208302008-02-22T17:41:00.006-05:002008-12-09T00:31:08.511-05:00A couple images from the Wizards vs Lakers basketball game<p align="justify">Just a couple images from the game. There is something about having a couple free tickets to an exciting sports game and your seats are in a box suite! Sooo nice!<br /><br />After my buddy and I watched the Wizards, of course, lose the game, we headed out for some photo opportunities at the Smithsonian area and a coffee break.<br /><br />I found out that the original tickets I was going to receive may have been forwarded to another staff member who also won a pair of tickets to the game also got an additional two tickets. She brought another couple to the game. </p><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhi1bFY2RNbCn1ePJ_IAHGxZyI1ifasySWRiXqVfxq7JZAy-PLbA-i3nXKNgcnpsyDYXljyz1h8GJPKUs5XwtmeAILIQfQFckgQ_KhrEPwPnDqsv79mhmS2SuljdY_ruyV2zm/s1600-h/DSC06130.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169939382040688274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhi1bFY2RNbCn1ePJ_IAHGxZyI1ifasySWRiXqVfxq7JZAy-PLbA-i3nXKNgcnpsyDYXljyz1h8GJPKUs5XwtmeAILIQfQFckgQ_KhrEPwPnDqsv79mhmS2SuljdY_ruyV2zm/s200/DSC06130.JPG" border="4" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NVAjG-9GZcqx3Og6SOqoHpcvu0i8ggPkmdzMsh-zFMcWj5bMDEkBmaja8em4NgAvOWWkQ1pNcbRy37tbm-njAVkzqMPclAGDuPB8hlQjW23eFJ82T4LPu7QE10dxTx_8THNn/s1600-h/DSC06126.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169939394925590178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NVAjG-9GZcqx3Og6SOqoHpcvu0i8ggPkmdzMsh-zFMcWj5bMDEkBmaja8em4NgAvOWWkQ1pNcbRy37tbm-njAVkzqMPclAGDuPB8hlQjW23eFJ82T4LPu7QE10dxTx_8THNn/s200/DSC06126.JPG" border="4" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><blockquote><br /></blockquote></div>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-61499412746562690692008-02-22T09:33:00.004-05:002008-02-22T11:31:44.021-05:00Weather AlertRain. Sleet. Ice. Snow. Go Away.<br /><br />At least, the building is warm and I am feeling dry.<br /><br />Scripture of the Day: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=47&chapter=7&verse=25&version=45&context=verse">Matthew 7:25 (Amplified Bible)</a><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">And the rain fell and the floods came and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.</span></blockquote>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-2369537692017625122008-02-21T19:59:00.004-05:002008-02-22T11:32:49.767-05:00<p align="justify">I read about the following in <a href="http://www.readexpress.com/index.php">Today's Washington Express</a>...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cbs.com/latenight/latelate/">Late, Late Night Show</a> host <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0272401/">Craig Ferguson</a> describes his impressions as he plans to view the child fantasy movie, "<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0272401/">The Spiderwick Chronicles.</a>"<br /><br /><em><blockquote><em>"I don't really know what a spiderwick is," Ferguson admitted. "I think it's<br />a combination of Spider-Man and Wikipedia: He fights crime and gives you the<br />wrong answer for everything."</em></blockquote></em><br />A guffaw spilled from my mouth as I read this. Although the site can inform the reader about the basics for a particular subject, it is so true about Wikipedia accuracy...<br /><br />What is that saying? Take it (or read it) with a grain of salt.<br /></p><p></p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-37641729153158154092008-02-01T22:16:00.000-05:002008-02-02T16:55:04.432-05:00Special names for some very special events<p align="justify"><b>If you are not feeling excited about the upcoming special events, then let me tell you that you are not alone.<br /><br />Feb 2 - If you don't care whether six more weeks of winter will be extended, think of Groundhog Day as Grounded Pork Day. For vegetarians out there, think about it as Grounded Tofu Day. Believe me, some places consider Ground hog as a delicacy.<br /><br />Feb 3 - If you are not a sports fan or your football team is not in the ultimate championship game, then think of the Super Bowl as schmuper loser ball ...<br /><br />Feb 5 - If you don't care about US national politics or your candidate is not in the running for Super Tuesday elections, then think of this special day as sloppy, flubber Blooper Tuesday...<br /><br />Feb 7 - If you don't know much about Asian astrology or your body does not agree with Asian foods, then Chinese New Year can be considered just another day in the year.<br /><br />Feb 14 - If your honey has forgotten about you on Valentine's Day, then turn it to Padawan Discipline Day where you can discipline those weak-willed people. Of course, Star Wars fans will recognize this one.<br /><br />Is this a leap year? Not that I really care.</b></p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11922073.post-70639895052073359742008-01-30T20:34:00.000-05:002008-01-30T20:43:25.882-05:00Hoop dreams update<p align="justify">Washington Wizards tickets arrived this afternoon to the workplace via messenger. We are DEFINITELY going to Sunday's basketball game and we got box seats! Whoo-hoo!!! Oh, yeah!!!<br /><br />If you could see me at work this afternoon, I was raising my hands, like I just don't care!!! I was told by the staff person responsible for distributing the tickets that the original tickets got lost somewhere in the building. At least, this is the story that the vendor is giving.<br /><br />Hmmmmm, let's see if anyone not supposed to be there will show up at the game. <br /><br />Well, the game starts at noon sharp and church service in Rosslyn, VA ends @ 11:15 am. That gives me plenty of time to get to the game on time. Oh, yeah. </p>Travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17766732212403206552noreply@blogger.com2