On Saturday it was off to Kendo practice for the first time in weeks (I am in some serious pain today). Here is the gym where we practice...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098182484026354"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6si404_I/AAAAAAAAAPE/2TlsNMsKRUA/s800/0086.jpg" /></a>

My son practices until my wife comes to pick up my daughter... while waiting, we had a snack at the cafe across the road... Rice Krispie squares were a hit.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098186778993666"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6sy405AI/AAAAAAAAAPM/bP5wT60GR1w/s800/0087.jpg" /></a>

Your hands are so tiny!

No the rice krispie square was so big!!!

Charlatan's pictures are not there! THEY'RE NOT THEEERRRREEEE! (done in the voice of that guy from Soylent Green)

When I got home last night my daughter insisted she be allowed to play in the backyard... While she puttered around on her car I took the opportunity to have a look at my garden... Things are progressing nicely. The tulips should be in full bloom in a day or so.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098191073960978"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6tC405BI/AAAAAAAAAPU/qDdU2zpjeYo/s800/0088.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098195368928290"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6tS405CI/AAAAAAAAAPc/TI-0iKrD9Kw/s800/0089.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098199663895602"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6ti405DI/AAAAAAAAAPk/SqmgYOqg-Ro/s800/0090.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098203958862914"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6ty405EI/AAAAAAAAAPs/Ox2GsKYSUHs/s800/0091.jpg" /></a>

The shot of the gargoyle is wonderful! And that is one of the best looking dogs I've seen in a long time! :D

another shot of the pooch.


"here zero.........here boy"

Hey fly... I was thinking of you when I took the shot. The last one was too far away.


This morning I took a different route to work and had a chance to stand in front of one of my favourite buildings... The New Broadview Hotel. It is currently home to Jilly's, one of the more seedier strip joints in town.

The building, however, is better looking than the women inside. I wish I had several million dollars so I could buy the place. It would make an amazing boutique hotel/nightclub... The area in which it is located is poised to be the next "cool" area of town. All the right elements are bubbling under the surface - art galleries, some warehouse/loft conversions, half decent cafes and a concert hall that has seen better days... All it will take to make it cool is one anchor and I know this place could be it... for now, it does just the opposite. (I will try to take more of it later, I had to jump on my streetcar so I couldn't do it this morning).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098203958862930"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6ty405FI/AAAAAAAAAP0/5yKDKaJtg0A/s800/0092.jpg" /></a>

My kids and I took the bus up to my Mother-in-law's place for Mother's Day. I spent the day cleaning her garage... sorry no pics of that momentous event.

Here is the bus station at the new Don Mills subway stop.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098208253830242"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6uC405GI/AAAAAAAAAP8/UxR0Tkw-kvM/s800/0093.jpg" /></a>

I was out in the backyard with my daughter yesterday evening and noticed that all the flowers have come out. The bleeding hearts, which I swear were not there in the morning were in full bloom by evening.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098212548797554"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6uS405HI/AAAAAAAAAQE/Pj4VS__xVbI/s800/0094.jpg" /></a>

Today was such a beautiful day I decided to go have lunch at a local pub... they have a patio that is right across the road from Much Music... Me, I just enjoyed the weather and read the new issue of Wired...

The beer was a Creemore and it was *very* tasty.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098216843764866"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6ui405II/AAAAAAAAAQM/qjg-EvaXrCI/s800/0095.jpg" /></a>

On Saturday I took my son to the Eaton Centre so he could attend a painting workshop at the Games Workshop... While he was painting up a storm my daughter and I wandered the mall...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098221138732178"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6uy405JI/AAAAAAAAAQY/hLxRfp1Krhg/s800/0096.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098221138732194"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6uy405KI/AAAAAAAAAQg/CCoPbqGAgoc/s800/0097.jpg" /></a>

and as some of you know, I spent Saturday night meeting some fellow TFPers at a local pub... Cellophanediety, Muttonglutton, Aberkok and Kramus all showed up... sadly my camera doesn't work well in low light situations...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098225433699506"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6vC405LI/AAAAAAAAAQo/wdn09qGVnis/s800/0098.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098229728666818"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6vS405MI/AAAAAAAAAQw/bwvN2PKGnFc/s800/0099.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098234023634130"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6vi405NI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/cmsLYNiiei4/s800/0100.jpg" /></a>

Today I wandered out of the office in search of a snack and while I was standing at the counter looking at the chocolate bars I chose a Reese Peanut Butter Cup all because of Nancy's Peanutbutter and Jelly Taste Test...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098238318601442"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6vy405OI/AAAAAAAAARA/2psAZkv5QUo/s800/0101.jpg" /></a>

Your pictures aren't showing so I can't tell, but is the Don Mills Subway the one at Fairview mall?

wow! see where you took the picture of the fountain? i was sitting there yesterday. Exactly the same spot, but at about 3:30 pm, and Itook my nephew to games workshop to look at those Warhammer figurines.

One of my closest friends may have run said Warhammer painting sessions! Who was it that was leading them?

Did he look like a very loud teddy bear with glasses and short hair? ;)

Janey... that's really funny. I was there almost exactly 24 hours earlier doing precisely the same thing... Warhammer and fountain. And yes that's at Fairveiw Mall...

It really is too bad you couldn't make it to the Victory for a drink with all of us... maybe next time.


Cellophane... I didn't catch the guy's name but my son say it was Matt. Is that your friend?

right on Charlie..........good pix once again.


you live a good life man.

keep up the good work.

Nah, Matt's one of the other guys that works there. Ah well! Still awesome.

Our tulips in the front yard are finally starting to bloom... these are my favourites because they have double the petals of the more traditional tulips...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098238318601458"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6vy405PI/AAAAAAAAARI/3yx9loIhT9U/s800/0102.jpg" /></a>

Ooooooo...........
http://www.tfproject.org/tfp/attachm...id=10825&stc=1

So last weekend I took a four-day weekend and went to the cottage with my wife... and only my wife (well the cat and the dog came as well but they are nowhere near as disruptive to my sleep and sex as my kids...).

If you had asked me prior to going if I would talk a lot of pictures I would have said sure... in the end, I took a total of two pictures.

The first is of a really tasty sandwich my wife made for me and the second is of the trilliums that were all over the place... I really like trilliums.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098242613568770"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6wC405QI/AAAAAAAAARQ/xFyFXTl9r2w/s800/0103.jpg" /></a>

On the last morning I was there, I took at long canoe paddle out into the bay and floated around for a while... just me and the dog. I think I tought about my camera for about 2 seconds right then but no other time... It was a good weekend and a well needed rest.

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098246908536082"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6wS405RI/AAAAAAAAARY/rN6WcuS53g8/s800/0104.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098251203503394"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6wi405SI/AAAAAAAAARg/1QdsZLjfS_M/s800/0105.jpg" /></a>

This morning as I was leaving for work I noticed that our front yard tuplips were in full bloom and probably only have a a few more days before the petals fall off...

I particularly like the old-fashioned pointy ones...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098255498470706"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6wy405TI/AAAAAAAAARo/i2eotoTE2Wc/s800/0106.jpg" /></a>

Beautiful! :)

Sweetpea

As I mentioned in my Journal, I my neighbourhood had it's annual Garage Sale... I have been clearing out the stuff from my basement... Here are some shots of my books and videos being sold off...

It was a lot harder to do than I thought it would be but I felt a lot better about it in the end... Why do we fetishize books so much?
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098259793438018"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6xC405UI/AAAAAAAAARw/Em-mWfLLAaA/s800/0107.jpg" /></a>

You can also see that most of the blossoms are off the tulips... only two remain and they are looking pretty sad.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098264088405330"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6xS405VI/AAAAAAAAAR4/DxnNoRMV8S0/s800/0108.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098268383372658"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6xi405XI/AAAAAAAAASI/aAe3SDcTdVQ/s800/0110.jpg" /></a>

what street do you live on? we went for yim cha (dim sum food) at the Grand Restaurant on Gerrard yesterday, but had to park the car just north of gerrard on a residential street. I may have strolled past your house, as there were a few yard sales going on.

Our street (glebeholme) is have its garage sale in a coulpe of weeks ( i think). It is organized each year by a charming elderly lady who also volunteers for the Beach Metro News. She walks around a petition to all the neighbours, to choose the best date, and then publishes it in the Beach Metro paper. Such a nice lady.

(cellophane, i didn't mean to ignore your earlier question, i just didn't see it: I never saw who was leading the painting workshop for Warhammer, as I just stayed by the fountain drinking my Starbucks...)

Janey... I live on Logan Ave. You were likely on Simpson, Victor or Langley...

So last week I was in Banff...

Here is me waiting for my flight in Toronto Pearson T1
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098272678339970"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6xy405YI/AAAAAAAAASQ/_J1dHp4lPII/s800/0111.jpg" /></a>

I was lucky to get to play in a golf tornament at the Banff Spring Course...

Here is a shot of my boss lounging in the cart and another of the 4th green... a nice par three that I landed very close to the hole...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098281268274594"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6yS405aI/AAAAAAAAASg/mUjcyhgV6Lw/s800/0113.jpg" /></a>

I stayed in a house in downtown Banff... very affordable. The veiw from the front yard is this... always impressive (even if the photo isn't)
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098281268274610"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6yS405bI/AAAAAAAAASo/nJSJvbCwmSE/s800/0114.jpg" /></a>

This is a shot I took out of the window... just thought it was neat.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098285563241922"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6yi405cI/AAAAAAAAASw/HoFsHcNfgY8/s800/0115.jpg" /></a>

This weekend past, I has some time alone with my daughter (not pictured). We kicked around for a while and then stopped for a coffee and a popsicle at my neighbourhood coffee shop (the Riverdale Perk).

Here is Zero keeping an eye on the traffic going by...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098285563241938"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6yi405dI/AAAAAAAAAS4/Um_VRa2cvV8/s800/0116.jpg" /></a>

sweet...........i always dig the dog pix man.


*awaits more cool shots from Charlie*

I have been a bit remiss in posting of late so I have a bit of a flood of images to up load...

After my trip to Banff in early June I flew to Budapest in late June... I took the first shot as the train pulled into the interterminal station at Frankfurt's Terminal B.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098294153176546"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6zC405eI/AAAAAAAAATA/WN-GdLvSpo8/s800/0117.jpg" /></a>

The second shot was where I had lunch when I finally reached Budapest. It was in a little cafe around the corner from my hotel. The food was OK but this was a much needed espresso that finished lunch.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098298448143858"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6zS405fI/AAAAAAAAATI/h9XdiXICgjo/s800/0118.jpg" /></a>

On the evening of the day I arrived there was a concert in the park across the street. A friend and I wandered across the street to catch the show and have a couple of beers. The weather was perfect for an outdoor concert.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098307038078482"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6zy405hI/AAAAAAAAATY/LEmI7IOeRQU/s800/0120.jpg" /></a>

The second shot was taken while I was waiting for a friend outside a drugstore. As I leaned against a planter this fellow in brownface and a pinoccio nose set up just three feet in front of me. He stood frozen until someone dropped a coin in his hat... you know the routine. I just thought it was odd that he was so close to me.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098311333045794"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx60C405iI/AAAAAAAAATg/YATZPSeb7i0/s800/0121.jpg" /></a>

My boss, who also attended the sales market, took me for dinner at a very nice (if a little touristy) restaurant called Gundel. At one point this violin-playing gentleman serenaded us... I never like it when that happens.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098311333045810"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx60C405jI/AAAAAAAAATo/P2pGuC2qGX0/s800/0122.jpg" /></a>

After dinner we walked back to the hotel and passed by this large public square which also is the home to their Tomb for an Unknown Soldier. These sorts of public squares always make me wish there were more of them in Toronto...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098315628013122"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx60S405kI/AAAAAAAAATw/AYFtiS69Cp0/s800/0123.jpg" /></a>

The last shot is of the airplane that hangs in the atrium of the hotel (Sofitel) in which the market I was attending took place. I thought it was cool.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098319922980434"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx60i405lI/AAAAAAAAAT4/iIEGgGo2Aqg/s800/0124.jpg" /></a>

I enjoy browsing this thread Charlatan - love them phone pics you take.

The first shot is one of the passageways that I walked through on the way to work from the hotel I stayed at... It was kind of sad because all of the shops on the right hand side were boarded up. I did like the way it made the group in front of me look like there were "walking towards the light".
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098319922980450"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx60i405mI/AAAAAAAAAUA/tUPt0yZyv7w/s800/0125.jpg" /></a>

The next shot was taken from the top of the boat on which I attended a very fun party. I danced like I haven't danced in years (and got very sweaty). The view from the top of the boat (which was anchored on the Buda side) of all the buildings reflected in the Danube was quite beautiful.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098324217947762"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx60y405nI/AAAAAAAAAUI/A6xbfhLNqNA/s800/0126.jpg" /></a>

The third shot is of the fountain in the garden across the road from my hotel. The garden (Ersebet Square) was a little run down but it wasn't anything a few thousand euros couldn't fix. As I was walking home that day, I happened to see this guy with long rocker hair watching his kids use the slide... I thought it was a rather odd sight. When I got up close, the rocker guy turned out to be Slash. Velvet Revolver was playing in town and he was staying in my hotel.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098328512915074"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx61C405oI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/vWSq7iKR2ag/s800/0127.jpg" /></a>

On my last day in town I had the evening to myself... I was just going to eat in the hotel restaurant when I realized that I wasn't going to be back in Budapest for another year and decided to venture forth. Some friend's had mentioned a nice restaurant in the area of the Cathedral not far from where I was staying. I found the restaurant but was drawn just up the street to the towering Cathedral. It was huge. The camera doesn't do it justtice but take note that the building on the left is 9 stories and that there are people on the steps...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098332807882386"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx61S405pI/AAAAAAAAAUY/_RAFlKNOJJ8/s800/0128.jpg" /></a>

There were two restaurants on the square and I chose Leroy Cafe for two reasons: the lights on the walls (there were a flower pattern with a light bulb in the middle) and the fact that Leroy reminded me of The Baroque Trillogy which I just finished reading earlier this year.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098332807882402"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx61S405qI/AAAAAAAAAUg/DiQT-38Sia0/s800/0129.jpg" /></a>

The food was pretty good. I started with a gin and tonic and moved onto a grilled shrimp salad which was followed by a glass of Cabernet and a Sesame crusted Turkey topped with arugala, goat cheese and carmalized pears (pictured below). The was followed by a forgettable dessert and a glass of Tokaij (Hungarian dessert wine that is just amazing).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098337102849714"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx61i405rI/AAAAAAAAAUo/4mlo9nBI10o/s800/0130.jpg" /></a>
A three out of five for the meal but it was very nice to be able to sit outside and eat (at that point it was still hit or miss with the weather back home).

This was taken on July 1st as my son, his best friend and I sat on the Leslie Street Spit and watched the fireworks at Ashbridges Bay...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098341397817026"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx61y405sI/AAAAAAAAAUw/eNjAmohpbUA/s800/0131.jpg" /></a>

This is "the one that got away".

I was driving on Hwy. 11 about 30 minutes north of North Bay (on my way to retrieve my son from Camp) when the semi I was trailing suddenly put on his fourways and slowed down. I thought he was being neighbourly and letting me pass, so I accelerated and passed...

No sooner had I got around the big truck then I noticed that scrambling up the middle of the road was very large moose, heretofore unseen as it was on the other side of a large white transport... I quickly reached for my camera phone but by the time it was ready to shoot, the moose dove for cover into the bush on the left. If the camera was better I'm sure you could still see its butt sticking out of the forest.

You can still see the scuff marks its hooves made on either side of the dividing line just infront of my car.

In anycase, this is a shot of the what the highway looks like in northern Ontario.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098341397817042"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx61y405tI/AAAAAAAAAU4/aNSNmdNPW9I/s800/0132.jpg" /></a>

The Trip to Rochester...
 

I was really looking forward to taking the ferry to Rochester. The novelty of travelling buy boat across the lake just struck me as very cool.

The first shot is taken from the seat I snagged on the upper deck. I managed to hook up with Kramus but totally missed Yakk and Knifemissle (despite the latter walking the decks with a TFP sign).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098345692784354"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx62C405uI/AAAAAAAAAVA/844TbsYZJDs/s800/0133.jpg" /></a>

The second shot is looking back at Toronto. This was very cool. I don't think I've ever seen my city from this perspective (in person anyway). The islands really make the city look green.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098349987751666"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx62S405vI/AAAAAAAAAVI/rX_TUHEqzG4/s800/0134.jpg" /></a>

The third is of the twin trails the ship leaves for its wake... Kramus convinced me to go outside and feel the wind. The high speed really whips it up.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098349987751682"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx62S405wI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/8z6UB1eBkBU/s800/0135.jpg" /></a>

Finally, a very nice sunset as we drove towards nightfall.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098354282718994"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx62i405xI/AAAAAAAAAVY/ETelet9acE0/s800/0136.jpg" /></a>

The first shot is of the sign forbidding entry back into the US Customs area... I never knew how difficult it was to see one of these signs when you are standing directly below one... by the way, did you know it is an automatic $500 in the US if you carry white poweder in an unmarked container?
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098354282719010"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx62i405yI/AAAAAAAAAVg/6af_EQTB8I0/s800/0137.jpg" /></a>

The next shot is from the first tee at the first annual TFP Open. Uncle Phil and I had a great time...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098358577686322"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx62y405zI/AAAAAAAAAVo/M68TnDHCnzA/s800/0138.jpg" /></a>

After golf, we made it back in time to do a little grocery shopping and then it was off with the King of Rochester... Paddyjoe.

The first shot is called, "The Pate of Joe". (I just noticed that you can see me in the rearview mirror).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098367167620930"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx63S4050I/AAAAAAAAAVw/gv2fJuGp0vs/s800/0139.jpg" /></a>

Our first stop was the High Falls district. Joe took us to the visitor's centre where we perused the gallery and learned a little local history... Most importantly Joe showed us where he keeps his really big camera... apparently size matters.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098367167620946"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx63S4051I/AAAAAAAAAV4/UXi8b0EED70/s800/0140.jpg" /></a>

The last show is of some of the wildlife in the area... here we see just onesnowyowl... feel free to admire the plumage.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098371462588258"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx63i4052I/AAAAAAAAAWA/6XaY23rKRsc/s800/0141.jpg" /></a>

Then it was a short trip through the centre of town to Eastman House. Joe, the consummate host, had free passes for the lot of us and even asked Shani to join him as his date...

The main exhibition was a collection of Edward Weston's work. Really great stuff. We were a little chilled however when Shani gasped, "Oh my God! It's a Giant Hamburger!"
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098375757555570"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx63y4053I/AAAAAAAAAWI/pLrnBPv3d4o/s144/0142.jpg" /></a>

We later took a tour of Eastman's very nice house. His book collection was very nice and this shot kind of summed up a theme for the whole weekend (interestingly enough you can see a picture of me taking this picture in Paddyjoe's thread here: http://www.tfproject.org/tfp/showthread.php?t=92494).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098375757555586"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx63y4054I/AAAAAAAAAWQ/xpLofcDBSyE/s144/0143.jpg" /></a>

Finally, I just really felt like a good knob.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098380052522898"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx64C4055I/AAAAAAAAAWY/dX93jLpskj0/s144/0144.jpg" /></a>

Then it was off to local eatery in the Park Avenue area of town. Jines is a restaurant where Paddyjoe as a permanent collection of his work on display... you see fly? I told you he wasn't lying. People really do pay him for his work.


This is the lot of us having lunch... I just want to thank Paddyjoe again for taking on a tour of his city. You could really tell he was proud of where he's from. I'd also like to thank him again for treating us to lunch... Just remember the ferry goes both ways...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098384347490210"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx64S4056I/AAAAAAAAAWg/m99znhYVVyo/s800/0145.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098384347490226"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx64S4057I/AAAAAAAAAWo/IdMIM-hpfwQ/s800/0146.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098388642457538"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx64i4058I/AAAAAAAAAWw/K8zkhc3rRKY/s800/0147.jpg" /></a>

A Paddyjoe selfportrait... the man can take a picture.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098397232392162"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx65C405-I/AAAAAAAAAXA/ljuG3hmrSDU/s800/0149.jpg" /></a>

The man also looks good in a white...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098401527359474"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx65S405_I/AAAAAAAAAXI/9hAzpdeSB4o/s800/0150.jpg" /></a>

Then it was back to Tecoyah's for BBQ and Beer...

The first shot is from my perch on Tec's throne... you can just make out the inferno that is Tec's BBQ pit (it's the yellow glow in the middle back).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098405822326786"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx65i406AI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/BSzDT17BEVc/s800/0151.jpg" /></a>

Horseshoes were attempted by Paddyjoe and myself... he won 4-0 *bastard*.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098410117294098"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx65y406BI/AAAAAAAAAXY/6oQha8wIZLc/s800/0152.jpg" /></a>

Phil was the master baster... the ribs were spectacular.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098414412261410"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx66C406CI/AAAAAAAAAXg/NLfmp3j7NJQ/s800/0153.jpg" /></a>

Snowy tried to convince us to get into some Yoga 'n' Ribs but I found it just a little too comfortable on the garden swing eating ribs and drinking beer...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098418707228722"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx66S406DI/AAAAAAAAAXo/xvEdA490iJc/s800/0154.jpg" /></a>

The first is of most of us on Tec's front porch... it was shortly after this that we realized the webcam was in the back room and we were essentially ignoring the rest of you... we then moved back. Besides Kramus, Tec and Shani (or was it Dawg) were sitting on Phil's bed and he had to sleep.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098423002196034"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx66i406EI/AAAAAAAAAXw/nPyyw0sJfEo/s800/0155.jpg" /></a>

After a very late night and less than two hours sleep, I snuck up for a shower and took this of the living room bunch... from the left: Yakk, Knifemissle and Kramus.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098427297163346"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx66y406FI/AAAAAAAAAX4/kvXmF6tJj3o/s800/0156.jpg" /></a>

Thankfully Knife and Yakk managed to rouse themselves in time to head off to catch the 8 am ferry. Thanks again for the ride and the company on the ferry guys.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098427297163362"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx66y406GI/AAAAAAAAAYA/srM04ES_4_Q/s800/0157.jpg" /></a>

Finally Toronto loomed once more on the horizon...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098431592130674"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx67C406HI/AAAAAAAAAYI/oHloPynVWcY/s800/0158.jpg" /></a>

I was first off the boat...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098435887097986"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx67S406II/AAAAAAAAAYQ/jZOtVXrmDSE/s800/0159.jpg" /></a>

Charlatan-it was an honor to meet you!! All of us females went through several tissues trying to catch our drool.... :lol:
I can see why you were first in line of the boat, you devil.... :icare:

The pictures of MANY of our male tfp'rs DO NOT do them justice, Charlatan being one of them, my god is he handsome!!! He and PaddyJoe are both very lucky they are married and Im engaged :lol:

I really enjoy your pics, Charlie.
Toronto seems like a good place to park your butt for a while. ;)

The Pate of Joe is an excellent shot! :D
Awesome Rochester pics. Wish I'd been there. :thumbsup:

BEST...THREAD...EVER...

*bastard*... :lol:

Thank you all... I'm just not sure what to do with all the compliments coming in from the ladies... a guy could get used to this.

Paddyjoe... I am honoured to have a photographer of your stature compliment my stuff... I am equally honoured to include the first shot by someone other than myself on this thread... Cheers!

It was Friday morning and I was bemoaning the fact that I wasn't going to the cottage for the long weekend. My wife called to suggest that we make the most of our weekend in the city by going to the Toronto Islands...

A short ferrry ride away.

Here are a couple of shots from the amusment park there.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098444477032594"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx67y406JI/AAAAAAAAAYY/GHL3MEXBHGA/s800/0160.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098444477032610"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx67y406KI/AAAAAAAAAYg/YlU0uGUcsvU/s800/0161.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098448771999922"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx68C406LI/AAAAAAAAAYo/7MhrU2D62qg/s800/0162.jpg" /></a>

Righ next to the little amusement park is the Farm (Far Enough Farm)...

When we were first married my wife and would take our son to the Islands each year for a picnic on our anniversary... This is the first time we've had a chance to take our daughter.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098453066967234"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx68S406MI/AAAAAAAAAYw/1yp_f6R9M1U/s800/0163.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098457361934546"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx68i406NI/AAAAAAAAAY4/4ZX5e-BG3sA/s800/0164.jpg" /></a>

A little homage to "goat.se"
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098461656901858"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx68y406OI/AAAAAAAAAZA/u18iPs5wfLc/s800/0165.jpg" /></a>

A shot of Toronto from the Ferry, in the Harbour and a shot of one of the other Ferries (I believe there are four in total).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098461656901874"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx68y406PI/AAAAAAAAAZI/DEKjwdszuAw/s800/0166.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098470246836482"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx69S406QI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/e6qtjF6D3Xw/s800/0167.jpg" /></a>

On Monday, I took my kids to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). We have a membership so I had not additional expenses beyond the streetcar.

Here are some shots of some details found near the main entrance and a detail from one of the totem poles they have in the stairwells...

The archyopteryx in the first shot is rather apropos as we were there to tour the feathered dinosaur exhibit... My son and I found it quite facinating.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098478836771090"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx69y406RI/AAAAAAAAAZY/0FEdBXhOZAA/s800/0168.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098483131738402"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6-C406SI/AAAAAAAAAZg/r3QrOonEnyA/s800/0169.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098483131738418"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6-C406TI/AAAAAAAAAZo/05bwgDA0JI8/s800/0170.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098487426705730"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6-S406UI/AAAAAAAAAZw/vGDZCVxgd3o/s800/0171.jpg" /></a>

Here are some more details found on the doors that lead to the theatre in the basement... The first is a stylized ROM and the second "1931" the year this part of the museum was constructed.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098491721673042"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6-i406VI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/xtU8OKMzLVE/s800/0172.jpg" /></a>

The third shot is of the ceiling of the entrance rotunda... the ROM is currently being renovated and this area will no longer be the main entrance to the museum. Instead this beautiful mosaic will grace a new high end restaurant that will be associated with the Museum... the current restaurant, while nice, is tucked away in the upper floors somewhere.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098496016640354"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6-y406WI/AAAAAAAAAaA/r2322LMGt0g/s800/0173.jpg" /></a>

Here are some shots of the renovation. The first is from inside the museum looking out into the construction. I believe that this will be part of the new entrance area...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098500311607666"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6_C406XI/AAAAAAAAAaI/7Illt1VlzJM/s800/0174.jpg" /></a>
The second is take from across the road (opposite corner) and shows some of the iron work that will support the "crystal" as they are calling the new addition. It was designed by Daniel Leibskind and is supposed to evoke the look of a crystal (the ROM has an amazing rock, gem and mineral collection). Needless to say, the addition is not without controversy.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098504606574978"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx6_S406YI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/Etnt0URfjzY/s800/0175.jpg" /></a>

I like the picture you took of your son - you are right - that effect does look pretty cool. ;)

I can't wait to visit Toronto again, Charlie. Wonderful city, and you would be a fun guide.

Plus, you might let me play with your phone again......... :D

Anytime Paddyjoe... I know where a few of the best pubs are located. They make excellent places to end the tour.

Like it
 

Hey I like the concept.....seriously I walk by stuff everyday that could be considered cell phone art worthy! :thumbsup:

sweet.........Charlie's got more pix


thanks for the tour man..........

On the Monday of the August long weekend, we all spent some time at in the Beaches... the first shot is of the owl in front of the Public Library at Kew Gardens.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098517491476882"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7AC406ZI/AAAAAAAAAaY/DBRs1FveyYQ/s800/0176.jpg" /></a>

The second is of my cat... he pretty much lives on top of my fridge.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098521786444194"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7AS406aI/AAAAAAAAAag/65bt55RvxMI/s800/0177.jpg" /></a>

Finally, the third shot is of my wife's car parked next to the Gooderham and Worts building (the flat iron building)... the reason I include it is because I really like the colour, the wet road and the fact that I don't generally associate the colour of the building with Toronto...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098526081411506"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ai406bI/AAAAAAAAAao/S1Lb1lW62kM/s800/0178.jpg" /></a>

I took these of the Toronto shoreline as my kids and I took the train to Pickering this weekend...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098530376378818"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ay406cI/AAAAAAAAAaw/CwrVmc6e6Lo/s800/0179.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098530376378834"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ay406dI/AAAAAAAAAa4/vdXsegmx7Ko/s800/0180.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098538966313442"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7BS406eI/AAAAAAAAAbA/LRGXeGhBlOQ/s800/0181.jpg" /></a>

Oddnoggle's Party
 

It has been a while since I updated this thread...

A couple of weekends ago I drove north of Toronto to the village of Udora to visit my best friend's new house.

Shot number one is of the fruit tray. The remaining two shots are from the drive home in the dark. The few shots I took at his house were too dark to make anything out...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098543261280754"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Bi406fI/AAAAAAAAAbI/TO7CLS24g9I/s800/0182.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098547556248066"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7By406gI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/dBRuDSdmuoI/s800/0183.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098551851215378"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7CC406hI/AAAAAAAAAbY/lh3l7p0YIew/s800/0184.jpg" /></a>

Canadian National Exhibition
 

I took the kids to the CNE two weeks ago.

Most of the shots I took have kids in them (mine) so they aren't permitted.

The first shot I took because as soon as I saw it I thought, "Nancy has got to see this." Then I wondered if they have cars that promote the eating of various brands of herring... Jif, for those who aren't in the know, is a brand of peanut butter. It isn't the best brand, that belongs to Kraft and the bears.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098560441149986"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ci406iI/AAAAAAAAAbg/5xuzED3RGxM/s800/0185.jpg" /></a>

The next shot is of my son's bumper car (the one on the right)... I love bumper cars but couldn't ride because I had to stay with my daughter while he and his friend careened aobut...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098564736117298"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Cy406jI/AAAAAAAAAbo/ojG2DIef1ag/s800/0186.jpg" /></a>

Finally a shot of the midway looking east towards downtown Toronto taken from the top of the Ferris Wheel.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098569031084610"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7DC406kI/AAAAAAAAAbw/n9WIIohRd_I/s800/0187.jpg" /></a>

The first shot is a picture of one of the spider webs that I found on my porch the other morning... this would have been cooler if this camera was better... (shrug)
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098573326051922"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7DS406lI/AAAAAAAAAb4/isCdHz2u3hk/s800/0188.jpg" /></a>

I took my kids to the Beach on the last weekend in August... This is my shadow on a log.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098581915986530"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Dy406mI/AAAAAAAAAcA/GGvB5lX8250/s800/0189.jpg" /></a>

My scooter broke down in traffic this week past. Gotta love when that happens. Changed the fouled spark plug and I was off again.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098586210953842"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7EC406nI/AAAAAAAAAcI/DVYn0kHVQPU/s800/0190.jpg" /></a>

On Thursday I went to get my hair cut and as I was leaving this stretch limo rolls up with the newlyweds hanging out of the sunroof (look close and you can see them).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098590505921154"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7ES406oI/AAAAAAAAAcU/HqBtKZKuLcE/s800/0191.jpg" /></a>
On Friday, I flew to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario for wedding. I've never flown over this part of Ontario (Georgian Bay) and been able to see. This is just north of Wasaga Beach on the eastern shores of Georgian Bay. The weird shapes in the upper left quadrant of the photo are the plane's propeller.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098594800888466"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ei406pI/AAAAAAAAAcc/r7mdQdKjxhU/s800/0192.jpg" /></a>

The Soo (Sault Ste. Marie)
 

Our hosts in the Soo arranged a boat tour of the St. Mary river, up one lock and down the other...

Just near the dock was this group of bears. My daughter thought they were pretty funny. The one with the camera looks a bit like Paddyjoe
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098599095855778"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ey406qI/AAAAAAAAAck/Q2ibfwSOOMg/s800/0193.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098599095855794"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ey406rI/AAAAAAAAAcs/hsDpuKBMssY/s800/0194.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098603390823106"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7FC406sI/AAAAAAAAAc0/rv7j_m78c_4/s800/0195.jpg" /></a>

Speaking of Joe... I chuckled when my brother-in-law offered me a beer and he handed me a Coors Light...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098607685790418"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7FS406tI/AAAAAAAAAc8/1jRl8q8dhdE/s800/0196.jpg" /></a>

The father of the groom makes his own wine... it is actually quite good.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098611980757730"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Fi406uI/AAAAAAAAAdE/SRQ-9-h-DGY/s800/0197.jpg" /></a>

Finally, as I was sitting at the table I noticed this melting bowl of ice cream... My bowl was tasty (almond flavoured) that I wanted to eat this one as well. My wife wouldn't let me... so this picture is to remind me of what might have been.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098611980757746"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Fi406vI/AAAAAAAAAdM/WjeHPyzBzgw/s800/0198.jpg" /></a>

Why yes Charlie. I must admit the resemblance is uncanny!





bastard

Love this one man. Lotta fun.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/08...62_26Aug05.jpg

Glad you liked it... there was one more from that series but I didn't think it looked as good as the one with the oncoming headlights...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098616275725058"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Fy406wI/AAAAAAAAAdU/4TAld_LvIpw/s800/0199.jpg" /></a>

The Markham Fair
 

So I took the kids to the Markham Fair yesterday (Sunday).

The first shot makes me think of the famous insane asylum from the world of Batman...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098620570692370"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7GC406xI/AAAAAAAAAdc/jfQnWARH5YA/s800/0200.jpg" /></a>

Just inside the main gate they had a display of some old farm equipment, most of which was run on steam and/or very old gas engines.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098624865659682"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7GS406yI/AAAAAAAAAdk/oT9vFwg3fWw/s800/0201.jpg" /></a>

Not too far from there was a very large inflatable Cow. I have a shot of the kids sucking at this cow's ginormous teet but alas the rules do not permit me to post this gem...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098624865659698"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7GS406zI/AAAAAAAAAds/2Ww7AJYLhqU/s800/0202.jpg" /></a>

We wandered through the exhibition checking out the prize winning animals. The Ontario Pork Board had set up an exhibit on good things to cook with pork... I love pork.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098629160627010"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Gi4060I/AAAAAAAAAd0/W4LCre4QPsA/s800/0203.jpg" /></a>

Directly across the aisle was... dinner. One hopes they can't read.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098633455594322"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Gy4061I/AAAAAAAAAd8/ymxTGO4j35k/s800/0204.jpg" /></a>

After the animals and then the vegetable (the biggest pumpkin was 557 pounds) we were all a bit peckish. I couldn't convince the kids that back bacon on a bun would be a good idea so we opted for fries.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098637750561634"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7HC4062I/AAAAAAAAAeE/csJ-sy8veQ4/s800/0205.jpg" /></a>

Then it was off to the midway for some rides. You can't see him but my son and his friend are up in the Ferris Wheel.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098637750561650"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7HC4063I/AAAAAAAAAeM/ThQWfZSazy8/s800/0206.jpg" /></a>

While they went on a few more rides I waited in line to take my daughter on the merry-go-round. This is her horse... she named herMaverick and then proceeded to yell, "Tally-ho" and "View Halloo" as we went around and around. Her mother makes her watch Mary Poppins way to much.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098642045528962"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7HS4064I/AAAAAAAAAeU/v_ndIjKeltk/s800/0207.jpg" /></a>

Charlatan these are awesome ... and I didn't see the pics you put up from Rochester until today!!!!

Can't wait ... a little over a week :D

I just realized I have been doing this thread for just over a year... Looking back it's been fun. I hope you all enjoy it as well.

I am currently writing this while I am Madrid, I just spent the past week in Cannes at a television market.

The first picture is me on an outdoor patio having dinner and drinks with some friends...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098642045528978"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7HS4065I/AAAAAAAAAec/rc4RhwfWCCE/s800/0208.jpg" /></a>

The next couple are from two different dinners. The first is my gin and tonic and the second is at 3 Portes... The wine was excellent.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098646340496290"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Hi4066I/AAAAAAAAAek/-aW7GOvxrc8/s800/0209.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098650635463602"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Hy4067I/AAAAAAAAAes/ck4R90fAAhU/s800/0210.jpg" /></a>

There were some homeless artists that had made some sand sculptures on the beach... the rather sizable last supper was impressive.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098650635463618"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Hy4068I/AAAAAAAAAe0/s5vHj_pTUE8/s800/0211.jpg" /></a>

The next day the rains came in hard and the sculptures didn't fair too well.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098654930430930"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7IC4069I/AAAAAAAAAe8/0FEi89TCi0Q/s800/0212.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098659225398242"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7IS406-I/AAAAAAAAAfE/XssJaz5Q2uY/s800/0213.jpg" /></a>

That alligator would FREAK me out if I happend to come across it walkin the beach at night ...

The next shots are a little Cannes by night...

The first shot is of some palm trees around the Hotel Canberra which was right next to the apartments I was staying in this year...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098659225398258"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7IS406_I/AAAAAAAAAfM/NMaF-NOYRps/s800/0214.jpg" /></a>

The weird red light one with the flag is one I took while lying on my back looking up at the neon sign at the end of the Noga Hilton's pier. The following one was taken from about the same location looking back at the shore and the Noga Hilton itself (a monstrosity of chrome and glass).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098663520365570"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ii407AI/AAAAAAAAAfU/kwJ1DK_cH7M/s800/0215.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098667815332882"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Iy407BI/AAAAAAAAAfc/35lbr4g4UCM/s800/0216.jpg" /></a>

The last for today... The first is the nicest Vespa I've seen in Europe. Mostly all I see are newer scooters or models from maybe as far back as the 80s (much like you would expect to see in car models in North America).

This scooter is from the 60s... I think it is a VBB. It is really well maintained.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098667815332898"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Iy407CI/AAAAAAAAAfk/rXyrGLDWIsE/s800/0217.jpg" /></a>

The next is the plane I took from Nice to Madrid. The overcast skies threatened to keep us on the ground but the thunderstorm never developed...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098672110300210"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7JC407DI/AAAAAAAAAfs/AscyIrLPT6E/s800/0218.jpg" /></a>

Finally, from the Madrid airport, the baggage claim. It always amazes me how similar they all are... This could be a picture of Des Moins, Iowa...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098676405267522"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7JS407EI/AAAAAAAAAf0/EwQpQPfFImw/s800/0219.jpg" /></a>

you live an adventurous life Charlie..........thanks for giving us all a little insight.

Here are the last shots from Madrid...

I've had a great time in Madrid hanging out with my good friend from New Zealand... As I have said elsewhere, I really needed this trip. I have been a bit high strung of late. For the first time in a long time, I have had to work hard to pick up women... welll... not exactly. Long story, but I served as mi amigos wingman... I held up my end but he didn't make it work. I don't think he is too worried as he leaves Madrid tomorrow for a few days in Amsterdam followed by Paris and then Los Angeles... He will find some action between here and there... I am hoping to hook up with him in LA when I am there mid-week next week...

To the pics (can you tell I've been drinking some fine Spanish wine?)...

The first shot is of a billboard for Diesil in Madrid, as you can see it is quite large... I think it speaks for itself (though it makes me laugh to think of it being placed on any street in North America).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098676405267538"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7JS407FI/AAAAAAAAAf8/edSNYzynElo/s800/0220.jpg" /></a>

The second shot is a camera shop around the corner from my hotel... I call it "Paddyjoe's wet spanish dream".
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098680700234850"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ji407GI/AAAAAAAAAgE/zJABGcNyQT8/s800/0222.jpg" /></a>

The next two shots are in the massive public park just next to my hotel... I think it is probably the best public park I have ever been to (and that isn't hyperbole).
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098684995202162"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Jy407HI/AAAAAAAAAgM/xXTj2FI5Tgs/s800/0223.jpg" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098684995202178"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Jy407II/AAAAAAAAAgU/2r6MilX-aSo/s800/0224.jpg" /></a>

Finally from tonight... after my friend was majorly cock blocked (as wingman I can honestly say there was nothing I could do) we were walking and came across the Museum of Ham... It was just that kind of wackiness that made tonight excellent!
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098689290169490"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7KC407JI/AAAAAAAAAgc/v5LnCOU9vcg/s800/0225.jpg" /></a>

I really liked Madrid. The only thing I would say is that, in general, the people are a bit cold. The city is lively but the people detract. The place we were in this evening made up for this largely but by and large... there are warmer people in other parts of the planet...

Thanks for the link to this thread Charlatan. It's very inspiring!

If you could go back to one place you've been too where would it be?

That's a good question. Let me think about it a bit.

I know that at this very moment... the only place I really want to be is home.

I am off to the airport in 10 minutes.

Thanks for the taste of Spain, Charlatan. You and your phone are a great team :thumbsup:

There are a few places I would like to visit again, but I think the two places I liked best were Copenhagen and Stockholm. There is just something sympatico with Scandinavia and me (I liked Oslo, Bergen and Helsinki quite a bit as well). After that, I would probably be some combination of New York and Hong Kong... big bustling metropolises of Modernity.


I have one last shot from Spain. As I was waiting in the lobby at 5 am for my taxi, I snapped this of a young prostitute chatting with the night manager of the hotel. Turns out she was waiting for her friend to finish her business upstairs...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098693585136802"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7KS407KI/AAAAAAAAAgk/DORNjqLPbNo/s800/0226.jpg" /></a>

Halloween
 

Here is the one shot of me from Halloween... I didn't take a lot of shots during Halloween because the camera just doesn't work all that well in the dark...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098693585136818"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7KS407LI/AAAAAAAAAgs/x6ehQzxfexk/s800/0227.jpg" /></a>

Santa Monica
 

Here are some shots from my trip to Santa Monica so far....

The first is of the Electronic Arts building on the way into town from the airport... This wasn't here when I was in town last... I think they built it on the grounds where they were supposed to build Dreamworks studio.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098697880104130"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ki407MI/AAAAAAAAAg0/FCjfHFignI0/s800/0228.jpg" /></a>

The next is of the Santa Monica pier as seen from the window of my friends suite at the Loews Santa Monica.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098702175071442"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ky407NI/AAAAAAAAAg8/6OUR3iCti6U/s800/0229.jpg" /></a>

I was amazed to see that the Rand Corporation's infamous building is in the process of being torn down... the Rand Corp. is one of America's most influencial think tanks.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098702175071458"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Ky407OI/AAAAAAAAAhE/pYntHQ0eYKE/s800/0230.jpg" /></a>

Finally a shot of the lobby of the Loews Santa Monica...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098706470038770"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7LC407PI/AAAAAAAAAhM/HJY3HXF9FtY/s800/0231.jpg" /></a>

Santa Monica
 

Here is a shot Sultana and Krycheck looking all sultry and mysterious...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098706470038786"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7LC407QI/AAAAAAAAAhU/xOPwKw6yOAA/s800/0232.jpg" /></a>

Sultana's very big coffee... she can put back the coffee.
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098710765006098"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7LS407RI/AAAAAAAAAhc/1sIwoS0EcPk/s800/0233.jpg" /></a>

And the last I took as we were getting ready to pose together...
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Temp/photo?authkey=UjR5dOgSIIc#5115098715059973410"><img src="http://lh3.google.com/StevenMurphy001/Rvx7Li407SI/AAAAAAAAAhk/rjJYHeESjJQ/s800/0234.jpg" /></a>

I do hope we can hook up some other time and like I said elsewhere, I appreciate their driving all that distance to come and see me.

Ah, what is it about Stockholm that you enjoyed? Can't be the food! :lol:

It was a little bit of this and a little bit of that... food, people, the way the city is laid out... just a general feel.

There is just something about Scandinavia that works for me...