Yes, go ahead and berate me for not posting. I deserve it. Truth be known, i grew tired of blogging. I find that facebook is a better outlet for my different moods and, frankly, didn't involve so much time to prepare.
So, now, i give you a hodgepodge of topics to read about...in no particular order.
Finding Reason...I'm sure, by now, you have realized that you haven't seen much from me with regards to Finding Reason (either here or on Facebook). Well, the reason for that is that I am no longer a member of Finding Reason. I was replaced by someone with more talent than myself. Yes. It's true. The band that I help start released me of my duties at the beginning of June. Yes, it sucks. And yes it hurt. I miss playing with those guys. There were no creative conflicts or personality issues. I just wasn't playing to the level that would take the band to the next level. It was a business decision. I have no hard feelings towards those guys, although i do wish things were different. Will I make a return to the music scene? Unlikely. However, i do hope to find some time to take some lessons to help me get better.
Sticking with the music theme, i recently saw a sold-out Lady Gaga show. It's been quite a while since i've been to a mainstream live music act. Normally, i would do a complete show review, but since it's been a while, i wouldn't be able to do it justice. I will say that I'm glad i did get to see the show. I called it a popera. pop + opera = popera. Essentially, Lady Gaga told a story and incorporated her music into the production. The stage setup changed with the different scenes. And of course, Lady Gaga herself had many wardrobe changes. And yes, her outfits were just bizarre. If you'd like to see her show, too bad...the next Houston performance is already sold out for April 2011. Lady Gaga was just a little too preachy for me, but it was an entertaining show...i think that was my first pop show.
Shifting gears...In July, i celebrated my 10th year in the manned space flight business. It's hard to believe that. I have seen and done a lot in that amount of time. I've gained so many friends here and on two different continents (Europe and Asia). Coming out of college...or heck, even high school, i never would have imagined that i would travel to Moscow, Russia (5 times) or to Tsukuba, Japan...or accumulate over 3500 hours of console time flying the International Space Station. The space station contract has been extended to at least 2020. Will i spend another 10 years in the human space flight business? Only time will tell...but i hope to be engaged in that for a while. It has been challenging of late (mostly due to management), but I aim to stay put for a little while longer.
Speaking of Moscow and Japan, I was in Moscow in April and then Japan in June. Both were for work. That was my 5th trip to Moscow and my first to Japan. Interestingly enough, these two countries are 180 degree apart in almost every way. It was great to experience both and to make new friends. This is one of my most favorite parts of my job. The flight to Japan was much more pleasant than the flight to Moscow...even though it was 2 hours longer. I tried sushi for the first time ever...and it is not for me. Maybe future blogs will contain pictures...
Well, i don't want to overload you on this first post in over 3 months. I will end it here. I have more items to share with you, so i will be back...
Showing posts with label Travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel. Show all posts
Friday, August 20, 2010
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Moscow, Summer 2009
Here are a few pictures from my Moscow, Summer 2009 adventures.
There isn't much that you haven't already seen, but here are a few memories.
I don't have time to label any of the pictures right now, but one day i'll get to it, maybe. Pictures include Red Square, Kremlin wall, Moscow river, monuments at Victory Park, monuments at VDNKh park, and the International Military Music Festival event in Red Square. This was a celebration for the 862nd birthday of Moscow. The festival was quite entertaining and a delight for my last night in Moscow. It helps that those memories are celebrated with good friends.
If you have any questions about the pictures, please don't hesitate to ask...
There isn't much that you haven't already seen, but here are a few memories.
I don't have time to label any of the pictures right now, but one day i'll get to it, maybe. Pictures include Red Square, Kremlin wall, Moscow river, monuments at Victory Park, monuments at VDNKh park, and the International Military Music Festival event in Red Square. This was a celebration for the 862nd birthday of Moscow. The festival was quite entertaining and a delight for my last night in Moscow. It helps that those memories are celebrated with good friends.
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| Moscow Summer 2009 |
If you have any questions about the pictures, please don't hesitate to ask...
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Moscow 2008 Pictures
Here are the pictures from my most recent trip.
I'll be working on the captions over the next few days...as some of those pictures may not make sense.
Enjoy.
I'll be working on the captions over the next few days...as some of those pictures may not make sense.
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| Moscow 2008 |
Enjoy.
Monday, February 18, 2008
My Work Here is Done...
Despite some people's wishes, i'm leaving Moscow tomorrow morning. The mission, from an ISS perspective, is complete and that concludes my business here. Now it's time to play. The whole HSG team is headed out for a night on the town tonight. It's been snowing pretty much all day. So, luckily our destinations aren't far from the metro stations.
I had a great time here in Moscow...even with the miserable weather. Whether the pictures from tonight will fall upon your eyes is yet to be seen. But i do have some pictures from the trip...although not many of me.
I just hope i make the van to the airport in the morning...(don't get any ideas, Carla)
I had a great time here in Moscow...even with the miserable weather. Whether the pictures from tonight will fall upon your eyes is yet to be seen. But i do have some pictures from the trip...although not many of me.
I just hope i make the van to the airport in the morning...(don't get any ideas, Carla)
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Snot-Freezing
Today, i was told, was the coldest day in the Russian winter so far. While i can attest that it was down right cold, i cannot confirm if it was the coldest day so far. But that is irrelevant in this post. The main point is that it was COLD. Snot-freezing-to-your-face-cold. Today was the pilgrimage to the out door market, Izmailovo. The best finds are found on the weekend and give two days to choose from, we chose today. Tomorrow was, according to the forcasts, supposed to be the colder day. Which is why we chose today. When i woke i checked the current temperature, which was a stunning 17 degrees F, with a windchill of the loneliest number, 1 degree F.
I don't know what the temperature was at the open market, but my guess is that it was a little colder...due to being kinda out in the middle of nowhere. I lasted nearly 2 hours before i had to head back to the relative warmth of the Metro. Wow...it was cold. I spent my money...didn't do much bargaining, for i figured those people deserved what i was paying just for being out in the cold. This one guy i was talking to (the guy who tolded me it was the coldest day so far) said he had to stay until sundown. Ughh...it's wicked cold here. Current temp is 9 degrees F with a windchill of -2 degrees F.
We were also able to meet up with Shannon and a few others from Houston. So far, i have done pretty much everything i have set out to do while i was here. The one lingering box that i need to check off is going to see the impressionist paintings at the Pushkin. I think Al and I are going to cover that tomorrow.
Needless to say, i'm having more fun than i thought i would out here. But i'm eager to get back and play some guitar...
I don't know what the temperature was at the open market, but my guess is that it was a little colder...due to being kinda out in the middle of nowhere. I lasted nearly 2 hours before i had to head back to the relative warmth of the Metro. Wow...it was cold. I spent my money...didn't do much bargaining, for i figured those people deserved what i was paying just for being out in the cold. This one guy i was talking to (the guy who tolded me it was the coldest day so far) said he had to stay until sundown. Ughh...it's wicked cold here. Current temp is 9 degrees F with a windchill of -2 degrees F.
We were also able to meet up with Shannon and a few others from Houston. So far, i have done pretty much everything i have set out to do while i was here. The one lingering box that i need to check off is going to see the impressionist paintings at the Pushkin. I think Al and I are going to cover that tomorrow.
Needless to say, i'm having more fun than i thought i would out here. But i'm eager to get back and play some guitar...
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Pushkin Art Museum
I finally was able to get out into the city today. One of the planners on the shuttle side and I went to the Pushkin Art Museum today. That was one of my goals following my first trip here years ago. I wanted to go to the art museum. Mark that off my list of things to do. Although, i think we're going back. We didn't have time to see the part of that i really wanted to see...the European impressionists (Monet, Cezzane, Van Gogh, etc.) That was in a separate building. We did see a lot of amazing paitings and sculptures. I'm not so much in to the sculptures, but i do have an appreciation for the detailed craftsmanship associated with works like that. I suppose if i didn't have vices, then, i too, could perhaps produces works of grandeur. But who am i kidding...i'll never be as skilled and meticulous as some of these artists were. I didn't see any paintings that completely blew me away, but nevertheless it was a treat to visit such a place. I'm think my eye is attracted to the impressionists...
I am extremely tired right now though...Al and I barely made it back in time for work. We had just enough time to go back to our apartments and change clothes. And we'll probably do it again tomorrow...and probably Saturday. Sunday might be a day off to sleep in...but plans are being worked.
Speaking of Al, one of the interesting things that comes from doing a tour here in the HSG is the new people you get to meet. Al is quite the musician. In fact he plays in a Celtic band and i'm thinking i'd like to see him play. Any one up for some live music and a little cheer? On the other shift i met a guy that was at A&M (in the aero department) at the same time i was there. However, he graduated a year earlier than me. I don't recall him either...but it's a small world. And then there's Carla. I've known who she was for some time now, but we've never had the opportunity to talk and get to know each other. She's one cool chick. Josh and Lisa can attest to that...
Anyway...this has been a rewarding trip to Moscow...even though i don't feel like i'm contributing much to the is mission. It's the smaller joys in this trip that are making it worth while...
See ya in a few more days...
I am extremely tired right now though...Al and I barely made it back in time for work. We had just enough time to go back to our apartments and change clothes. And we'll probably do it again tomorrow...and probably Saturday. Sunday might be a day off to sleep in...but plans are being worked.
Speaking of Al, one of the interesting things that comes from doing a tour here in the HSG is the new people you get to meet. Al is quite the musician. In fact he plays in a Celtic band and i'm thinking i'd like to see him play. Any one up for some live music and a little cheer? On the other shift i met a guy that was at A&M (in the aero department) at the same time i was there. However, he graduated a year earlier than me. I don't recall him either...but it's a small world. And then there's Carla. I've known who she was for some time now, but we've never had the opportunity to talk and get to know each other. She's one cool chick. Josh and Lisa can attest to that...
Anyway...this has been a rewarding trip to Moscow...even though i don't feel like i'm contributing much to the is mission. It's the smaller joys in this trip that are making it worth while...
See ya in a few more days...
Monday, February 11, 2008
I've Seen the Sun...
I haven't seen the sun since i've been in Moscow, until today. I thought it was a little brighter outside than it had been before. I thought i slept in later...but no, the skies were clear and that warm glowing orb was a sight for sore eyes. Although, without the cloud cover, the temperatures were somewhat cooler this morning. All the slush that had been there before was gone. The streets were dry. The once slushy sidewalks were now frozen over...but Moscow knows how to keep streets and sidewalks safe...so there were no issues walking.
With the clearing skies will bring some really chilly temps. I believe by Friday the temps will be a high of 24 degree F. It's been hovering around 34 or 35 degrees F since i've been here. It is February in Russia...i suppose it could be worse. According to one of the interpreters, one could charaterize the Moscow weather as somewhere between fall and winter or somewhere between winter and spring. Basically, there has been no winter here...
An interesting thought crossed my mind after i caught a cat walking down the hall today. Yes, the infamous TsUP cats. They do exist. Moose brought one home with her once. Anyway, this cat walks by an then comes into our room and promptly jumps up in the ops lead's lap and begins meowing. The thought i had was....I wonder if this cat is meowing in Russian? Would i know? Do the cats meow and dogs bark in English back home?
No, i have not been drinking the potato juice. And yes, I think i have been getting enough sleep. I'm just weird like that...
With the clearing skies will bring some really chilly temps. I believe by Friday the temps will be a high of 24 degree F. It's been hovering around 34 or 35 degrees F since i've been here. It is February in Russia...i suppose it could be worse. According to one of the interpreters, one could charaterize the Moscow weather as somewhere between fall and winter or somewhere between winter and spring. Basically, there has been no winter here...
An interesting thought crossed my mind after i caught a cat walking down the hall today. Yes, the infamous TsUP cats. They do exist. Moose brought one home with her once. Anyway, this cat walks by an then comes into our room and promptly jumps up in the ops lead's lap and begins meowing. The thought i had was....I wonder if this cat is meowing in Russian? Would i know? Do the cats meow and dogs bark in English back home?
No, i have not been drinking the potato juice. And yes, I think i have been getting enough sleep. I'm just weird like that...
Friday, February 08, 2008
At work in Moscow
So today was my first day at work here in Moscow...well, we actually work in Korolev. I saw a few of my Russian colleagues and met a few new American colleagues. Today was rather slow...not much to discuss with the Russians.
Tomorrow will be much of the same...perhaps a little more hectic as we prepare for Atlantis to dock to the station. Then all the fun and games begin.
Moscow is mushy right now; not very pleasing to the eye. The temperatures are a little above freezing which means all the snow and ice are melting. Everything is soggy, slushy, and mushy. I don't think there will be much time for site-seeing anyway. The only real chance we had was the few hours after we arrived. My co-workers aren't the goin' out types (frankly, i'm not the going out type either). But that gives me a chance to sit down and think about things.
One of my goals for this trip is to come home with some lyrics (or lyric ideas) for Finding Reason. I'm trying something new. I decided that i would write down every thought i had over a small time period. I decided to try that because i do have some pretty good lyrical ideas, but i always come up with them when pen and paper aren't available...and sometime those ideas pop out of my random thoughts. So the idea is to write down everything and then filter out the garbage.
What i think i uncovered by this method of writing is that i'm mad (not mad as in angry, but mad as in effing crazy!) I might share an excerpt from my first 20 minute thought-diarrhea session. My mind has severe ADD. Perhaps that was a result of being on an 11 hour flight? Well, i'm not sure that first session resulted in anything.
I do have a few "themes" in mind about song material. But i hate forcing the words to make the song work...Forcing it makes it seem...well...forced. Oh well, perhaps one day you'll find my thoughts/ideas in a future Finding Reason song or songs...
Tomorrow will be much of the same...perhaps a little more hectic as we prepare for Atlantis to dock to the station. Then all the fun and games begin.
Moscow is mushy right now; not very pleasing to the eye. The temperatures are a little above freezing which means all the snow and ice are melting. Everything is soggy, slushy, and mushy. I don't think there will be much time for site-seeing anyway. The only real chance we had was the few hours after we arrived. My co-workers aren't the goin' out types (frankly, i'm not the going out type either). But that gives me a chance to sit down and think about things.
One of my goals for this trip is to come home with some lyrics (or lyric ideas) for Finding Reason. I'm trying something new. I decided that i would write down every thought i had over a small time period. I decided to try that because i do have some pretty good lyrical ideas, but i always come up with them when pen and paper aren't available...and sometime those ideas pop out of my random thoughts. So the idea is to write down everything and then filter out the garbage.
What i think i uncovered by this method of writing is that i'm mad (not mad as in angry, but mad as in effing crazy!) I might share an excerpt from my first 20 minute thought-diarrhea session. My mind has severe ADD. Perhaps that was a result of being on an 11 hour flight? Well, i'm not sure that first session resulted in anything.
I do have a few "themes" in mind about song material. But i hate forcing the words to make the song work...Forcing it makes it seem...well...forced. Oh well, perhaps one day you'll find my thoughts/ideas in a future Finding Reason song or songs...
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Back in Russia
Finally...after 22 hours 45 minutes, a few hours of delays, a hot airplane, a cold airplane, and an aborted landing, i'm safe here in moscow. The good news is that i have a computer this time. The accomodations aren't as posh as the last 2 visits, but I'm stoked that my computer is working. I don't know if i'll be able to stay up another 9 hours though...
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Post Travel Routine
Everyone has a routine that they do when they get back from traveling. My routine usually starts off by catching up on sleep. I slept quite late this morning...and it was excellent.
Then came the arduous tasks of doing laundry, returning things to their resting places, and just generally cleaning up. Such a pain...but needs to be done. I think i'm at a point where i can get back on my regular routine.
I still have some things i need to get done...namely, work on Finding Reason stuff. I think i'm going to reserve some time for music in the coming days. It's been a while, and i miss my friends.
I hope all is well in your world?
Then came the arduous tasks of doing laundry, returning things to their resting places, and just generally cleaning up. Such a pain...but needs to be done. I think i'm at a point where i can get back on my regular routine.
I still have some things i need to get done...namely, work on Finding Reason stuff. I think i'm going to reserve some time for music in the coming days. It's been a while, and i miss my friends.
I hope all is well in your world?
21 Hours
Catch up post:
That's how long it takes to get from Moscow to my driveway. Such a long day of traveling. At least i was able to select my seat on the way from Moscow to Atlanta. I chose a seat in which no one was sitting next to me. This allow me to stretch out and not be confined to the upright fetal position. That made the 12 hour flight from Moscow to Atlanta not near as bad as it could've been.
However, i was starting to get cabin fever on the flight from Atlanta to Houston. I wanted off that airplane. Todd doesn't like being in uncomfortable seats for 21 hours. Todd doesn't like crowds. I was not a happy flier on that last leg.
But all is good with the world right now.
That's how long it takes to get from Moscow to my driveway. Such a long day of traveling. At least i was able to select my seat on the way from Moscow to Atlanta. I chose a seat in which no one was sitting next to me. This allow me to stretch out and not be confined to the upright fetal position. That made the 12 hour flight from Moscow to Atlanta not near as bad as it could've been.
However, i was starting to get cabin fever on the flight from Atlanta to Houston. I wanted off that airplane. Todd doesn't like being in uncomfortable seats for 21 hours. Todd doesn't like crowds. I was not a happy flier on that last leg.
But all is good with the world right now.
Winds of Change
Catch up post:
I follow the Moskva down to Gorky Park...
I've always wanted to do that...I didn't see any soldiers walking by...i got my fill of soldiers the other night. Every time i hear that song i'm reminded of it. Well, i have done that. Sunday morning, Matt and I headed out into the frigid morning air of Moscow...with Gorky park as our first stop. We planned out the trip the night before...you see, with the Metro, you often have to switch trains multiple times to get where you are going...and it's always best to not look lost...so preparation is key.
Gorky park was fairly deserted...with the exception of a group of guys trying to get in some quality hockey, and the grandfather taking his granddaughter for a little skate through the park. Ice and snow covered most of the park...with a new dusting of snow while we were there. There isn't much to see in Gorky during the winter. I suppose during the spring and summer there are beautiful flowers everywhere. I might have to make a return trip during the warmer months to enjoy it all. My last trip i was only able to see Gorky Park from the boat tour we took.
Being sunday, Matt and I went to church. The next stop on our short list was to hit Christ the Saviour Church. You've seen this in some of my other pictures. But it has a lot of picture quality there so we went. We did go inside this time though. The sign at the entrance said no cameras...so i wasn't brave enough to pull out my camera in there...but matt did. If i can find where he put his pictures i'll link them here. It's quite impressive in there.
Since Matt had to be at work later in the day (he never went in since the launch slipped) we headed back to the hotel so that we could check on the status of things. This is where we learned that the mission was going to be slipped until January. We had a discussion on when we were going to fly back and such. After much deliberation we decided that Tues, the 11th was going to be our return day...if we could only get our plane tickets updated. I had some trouble, but my secretary took care of that once she got in on Houston Monday morning.
Sunday night we decided to hit the Star Lite Diner in Moscow. It's a swinging 50s decor joint with good milkshakes and hamburgers. But to our demise, it was closed due to fire damage. I wish i would've known that before trekking out into Moscow. I was kinda bummed too. Oh well, perhaps they'll be done with the repairs for the next trip.
Here is the whole lot of pictures that i've been meaning to uplink. Enjoy.
Maybe if i find some extra time, i'll actually label each of the pictures...
I follow the Moskva down to Gorky Park...
I've always wanted to do that...I didn't see any soldiers walking by...i got my fill of soldiers the other night. Every time i hear that song i'm reminded of it. Well, i have done that. Sunday morning, Matt and I headed out into the frigid morning air of Moscow...with Gorky park as our first stop. We planned out the trip the night before...you see, with the Metro, you often have to switch trains multiple times to get where you are going...and it's always best to not look lost...so preparation is key.
Gorky park was fairly deserted...with the exception of a group of guys trying to get in some quality hockey, and the grandfather taking his granddaughter for a little skate through the park. Ice and snow covered most of the park...with a new dusting of snow while we were there. There isn't much to see in Gorky during the winter. I suppose during the spring and summer there are beautiful flowers everywhere. I might have to make a return trip during the warmer months to enjoy it all. My last trip i was only able to see Gorky Park from the boat tour we took.
Being sunday, Matt and I went to church. The next stop on our short list was to hit Christ the Saviour Church. You've seen this in some of my other pictures. But it has a lot of picture quality there so we went. We did go inside this time though. The sign at the entrance said no cameras...so i wasn't brave enough to pull out my camera in there...but matt did. If i can find where he put his pictures i'll link them here. It's quite impressive in there.
Since Matt had to be at work later in the day (he never went in since the launch slipped) we headed back to the hotel so that we could check on the status of things. This is where we learned that the mission was going to be slipped until January. We had a discussion on when we were going to fly back and such. After much deliberation we decided that Tues, the 11th was going to be our return day...if we could only get our plane tickets updated. I had some trouble, but my secretary took care of that once she got in on Houston Monday morning.
Sunday night we decided to hit the Star Lite Diner in Moscow. It's a swinging 50s decor joint with good milkshakes and hamburgers. But to our demise, it was closed due to fire damage. I wish i would've known that before trekking out into Moscow. I was kinda bummed too. Oh well, perhaps they'll be done with the repairs for the next trip.
Here is the whole lot of pictures that i've been meaning to uplink. Enjoy.
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| Moscow 2007 |
Maybe if i find some extra time, i'll actually label each of the pictures...
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Home Sweet Home
I am safely back on US soil. Since the STS122/1E mission has been delayed to at least January, i'm back home from Moscow. The flight to/from Moscow takes a lot out of you, so i'll keep this short. I do have to put together a few more posts from my journey through Moscow, but that'll have to wait for another day...
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Get Yer Shop On...
Since we are in a launch slip case...we all had the day off today. Being a weekend, we headed out...way out...to Izmailova (a large outdoor market)...or souvenier central! Yes, i said outdoor. Yes, the temperature was about -2 degrees C (28 degree F) with light snow flurries. Yes, these people are hardcore. I had a few things on my list to get...mostly for Christmas gifts...so i can't disclose what i got, but i do have some loot. But i feel like i'm forgetting some things, so i may have to shop around some other places...assuming i have room for all this stuff. Guess i'll have to pack with a little more precision...since one purchase alone will nearly take up all of a suitcase. I do have some snack food that i won't be bringing back, so that will free up some room.
On the trek back from Izmailova we stopped at what i think is my favorite Restaraunt in Moscow...VaPianos. It's an italian joint...i know...not russian...but the food is so good. One of my new friends (Al -- from the FAO world) was overly happy about the food so much so that he decided to pay for us. That was nice of him.
Another small world moment. The Ops Lead (Bryan Janda) that's on my shift has relatives that live in East Bernard. I had to fly around the world to find out that someone i work with has relatives in EB. Small world!!
Moscow sure is a wonderful place. I like it here...despite the cold or the inability to breathe (pollution).
On the trek back from Izmailova we stopped at what i think is my favorite Restaraunt in Moscow...VaPianos. It's an italian joint...i know...not russian...but the food is so good. One of my new friends (Al -- from the FAO world) was overly happy about the food so much so that he decided to pay for us. That was nice of him.
Another small world moment. The Ops Lead (Bryan Janda) that's on my shift has relatives that live in East Bernard. I had to fly around the world to find out that someone i work with has relatives in EB. Small world!!
Moscow sure is a wonderful place. I like it here...despite the cold or the inability to breathe (pollution).
Hard Rock'n Moscow
Yesterday, Matt and I decided to do the American tourist thing and hit the Hard Rock Cafe Moscow.
But before i get to that, yes, we're in a launch slip case, which is not great news at all. I'll be here longer and possibly pushing up to Christmas...or i'll come home early, and have to do this all over again in January or February; neither of which is pleasing to me. We are attempting to launch on Sunday, but there are meetings on Saturday to discuss those plans. I think our launch window cuts out on Dec. 13th...so if we're not off the ground by then, I'll be coming home, only to turn around and come back out here 1 or 2 months later.
So, following work, I had the computer guy come in to fix my computer issues. Didn't get it fixed. Although it has been decided that i'm getting a "new" computer on Monday. I still don't think that is going to solve my problem, but the work around is giving me computer access so i'm content.
Once it was decided that there was nothing that could be done with the computer, it was time to hit Moscow. Trip two...to the unknown. Are my navigation skills good enough yet? Yep...they were. We plotted our course before heading out and then decided to give it a shot. We found it without much trouble at all. I feel much more comfortable navigating the metro system.
Hard Rock Cafe Moscow was well...Hard Rock Cafe...and supposedly the second largest restaraunt in Europe! It didn't seem all that big to me...but it was definitely crowded. We found a couple of spots at the bar and ordered some food...tastey American Food. Then we did the touristy thing and bough Hard Rock souveniers. I wanted a Hard Rock Moscow cap, but there were no caps or hats at all...so i had to settle for a t-shirt.
It's a bit chilly here when the sun goes down. Last night on our trip to and fro it was around -3 degrees C (26 Degrees F). I was well prepared and i'm weathing it well.
But i have marked another thing off the list that i wanted to accomplish on this trip. [I wanted to post some pictures, but this computer is acting up again...sorry...you'll have to wait.]
But before i get to that, yes, we're in a launch slip case, which is not great news at all. I'll be here longer and possibly pushing up to Christmas...or i'll come home early, and have to do this all over again in January or February; neither of which is pleasing to me. We are attempting to launch on Sunday, but there are meetings on Saturday to discuss those plans. I think our launch window cuts out on Dec. 13th...so if we're not off the ground by then, I'll be coming home, only to turn around and come back out here 1 or 2 months later.
So, following work, I had the computer guy come in to fix my computer issues. Didn't get it fixed. Although it has been decided that i'm getting a "new" computer on Monday. I still don't think that is going to solve my problem, but the work around is giving me computer access so i'm content.
Once it was decided that there was nothing that could be done with the computer, it was time to hit Moscow. Trip two...to the unknown. Are my navigation skills good enough yet? Yep...they were. We plotted our course before heading out and then decided to give it a shot. We found it without much trouble at all. I feel much more comfortable navigating the metro system.
Hard Rock Cafe Moscow was well...Hard Rock Cafe...and supposedly the second largest restaraunt in Europe! It didn't seem all that big to me...but it was definitely crowded. We found a couple of spots at the bar and ordered some food...tastey American Food. Then we did the touristy thing and bough Hard Rock souveniers. I wanted a Hard Rock Moscow cap, but there were no caps or hats at all...so i had to settle for a t-shirt.
It's a bit chilly here when the sun goes down. Last night on our trip to and fro it was around -3 degrees C (26 Degrees F). I was well prepared and i'm weathing it well.
But i have marked another thing off the list that i wanted to accomplish on this trip. [I wanted to post some pictures, but this computer is acting up again...sorry...you'll have to wait.]
Friday, December 07, 2007
Mission Control Moscow
On the second day we went into work. Seems that the snow is sticking better up here in Korolev...well, the what used-to-be-snow-and-now-is-an-icy-slush. Didn't think about taking a picture of that (perhaps i'll get a picture of that for you melissa...that might meet your snow picture). Speaking of snow...it's still a little too warm for additional snow...but there is a 30% chance of snow everyday.
The road coming into Korolev has been updated since i've been here...they are putting in ramps and such to help ease the flow of traffic in and out of Korolev. Things are pretty much as i remember them...and it's fairly toasty inside too...no need for jackets.
I took matt around the MCC and took him to meet with some of the people that we'd be working with. Saw Alexander Shubakov and we started talking guitar stuff. But then it was time to get back to work. He said we talk guitar stuff later.
Right before leaving work, we learned that the launch was scrubbed for 24 hours. Great. And we learned the reason why...sensors in the Shuttle's tank. We've seen this issue before...so hopefully, it won't be a long slip.
It was late when we got back from work and i still needed to work out my computer issues (which still haven't been resolved completely). Laid down just to rest before going to the store and then fell asleep. Matt woke me up and we headed over to the store. I wasn't in the buying mood, so i didn't come home with anything...but i did check out the Vodka section. I think i know what i'm coming home with.
After the grocery store trip i called the tech guys to see if they could get my computer up and running...but to no avail. I finally got off the phone around 11:30pm...i was so tired....and again, i quickly fell asleep.
The road coming into Korolev has been updated since i've been here...they are putting in ramps and such to help ease the flow of traffic in and out of Korolev. Things are pretty much as i remember them...and it's fairly toasty inside too...no need for jackets.
I took matt around the MCC and took him to meet with some of the people that we'd be working with. Saw Alexander Shubakov and we started talking guitar stuff. But then it was time to get back to work. He said we talk guitar stuff later.
Right before leaving work, we learned that the launch was scrubbed for 24 hours. Great. And we learned the reason why...sensors in the Shuttle's tank. We've seen this issue before...so hopefully, it won't be a long slip.
It was late when we got back from work and i still needed to work out my computer issues (which still haven't been resolved completely). Laid down just to rest before going to the store and then fell asleep. Matt woke me up and we headed over to the store. I wasn't in the buying mood, so i didn't come home with anything...but i did check out the Vodka section. I think i know what i'm coming home with.
After the grocery store trip i called the tech guys to see if they could get my computer up and running...but to no avail. I finally got off the phone around 11:30pm...i was so tired....and again, i quickly fell asleep.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Hallo from Russia
Here is a catch up log on my experiences so far. My computer issues aren't completely solved, but being resourceful, i found a temporary workaround.
HorelicaNet Journal Operations have temporarily moved to Moscow, Russia. By virtue of you reading this means that i have made it here safely (as if the pictures in the previous post weren't enough proof.) We were greeted with 2 degree Celsius temperatures (36 degree Farenheit). That's kinda warm for this time of year...no complaints here. I think this is the first time that i could see the fog of exhale when going through my nose. I've seen it before when exhaling through my mouth...however, i'm sure i will experience the coldest temperatures that i have ever experienced.
The day (Dec. 4th, Central time) started very early for me...about 5am. I thought i had everything I needed/wanted for this trip. But in my haste, i still managed to forget a few things. I forgot my belt, not my dress belt, but my all-purpose-hold-up-my-pants-belt. I guess if i have to, i'll wear my dress belt for my casual needs. I suppose there are worse things to forget? Another thing i forgot to do was to leave my cell phone in the car. I'm sure my cell phone won't work in Moscow and i didn't bring my charger, so it'll be off until i get to atlanta. It is usually best not to bring cell phones. But the good news is that my cell phone isn't GPS capable, which is considered a no-no in Russia.
How did I forget to leave the cell phone? It's been my experience that when you park a facility at the airport you always have to wait on the bus to pick you up...not so in my case...the bus was waiting on me...so i was rushed.
Checking in a the airport was a little scary (at first). They didn't have me in the system. For a brief moment, i thought i wasn't going. Turns out because i was going international (requires a visa), they have to enter things in manually. The lady finally figured it out...although she should've known. Getting through security was a non-issue. The flight from Houston to Atlanta was uneventful.
Oh how i miss flying! It's not a whole lotta fun as a passenger though. Perhaps once i pay off the upcoming new vehicle and Finding Reason becomes a bit more established, i will have the time and money to stretch my wings once again. I'm jealous josh.
The flight to moscow was loooo-eee-ooooong. Uneventful, which is good, but awfully long. Tried to sleep, but i don't think i got more than 3 hours. I'm still pretty tired.
Made it through passport control without any issues and we received all of our luggage. Met the driver and headed over to the hotel. Checked in...had issues with the money machine (the darn thing wouldn't give us any roubles...at least it gave us our money back.) So we did it the old fashioned way...went to a money exchange place.
Then it was time to try my navigation skillz. Could i find my way around moscow and find my way back again? Ok...you've seen the pictures, so you know the answer to that. Yes, i was able to find my way to the metro, buy tickets, hop on the train, switch trains and navigate my way to Red Square...without getting lost. I popped out of the ground on the wrong side of the street, but that's an easy fix.
Wandered around Red Square for a while...walked down to the Moscow River and took some more pictures. By this time it was getting dark...and only 4:30pm. Worked our way back to Red Square. The one thing i wanted to accomplish this trip was to see Red Square at night. Mark that off the list. It was really beautiful there at night.
We worked our way around to the tomb of the unknown soldier and was stopped by the militia. Matt saw the militia approach me and he tried to wander off like a tourist. Thanks for stickin' by my side! But the militia asked if he was with me so i roped Matt into the mix. Turns out the militia guys were really cool...just checked our papers and let us be. had i not been freaked out at the time (we've all heard horror stories of running in to some bad militia), i would've asked to take a picture with them. Oh well...lost opportunities.
By this time, it was starting to get really cold. So we ducked into a mall and walked around a bit. saw a bunch of shoe stores...but didn't see any converse stores. Oh well. We decided to head back to the hotel to try and meet up with some of our fellow workers. But we missed them. Matt and I walked down to the Tractor...a nice pub type restaraunt. Pork shaslik and some good hotchipore.
That about concluded our very long day. I must say, i think i was asleep within 30 seconds of my head hitting the pillow. However, i woke up about 4am local time and really couldn't get back to sleep.
Time allowing I will try to blog everyday while i'm here. And i hope to post some good pictures, although there isn't much daylight here this time of year.
Thinking of you.
Hope to see you soon...
HorelicaNet Journal Operations have temporarily moved to Moscow, Russia. By virtue of you reading this means that i have made it here safely (as if the pictures in the previous post weren't enough proof.) We were greeted with 2 degree Celsius temperatures (36 degree Farenheit). That's kinda warm for this time of year...no complaints here. I think this is the first time that i could see the fog of exhale when going through my nose. I've seen it before when exhaling through my mouth...however, i'm sure i will experience the coldest temperatures that i have ever experienced.
The day (Dec. 4th, Central time) started very early for me...about 5am. I thought i had everything I needed/wanted for this trip. But in my haste, i still managed to forget a few things. I forgot my belt, not my dress belt, but my all-purpose-hold-up-my-pants-belt. I guess if i have to, i'll wear my dress belt for my casual needs. I suppose there are worse things to forget? Another thing i forgot to do was to leave my cell phone in the car. I'm sure my cell phone won't work in Moscow and i didn't bring my charger, so it'll be off until i get to atlanta. It is usually best not to bring cell phones. But the good news is that my cell phone isn't GPS capable, which is considered a no-no in Russia.
How did I forget to leave the cell phone? It's been my experience that when you park a facility at the airport you always have to wait on the bus to pick you up...not so in my case...the bus was waiting on me...so i was rushed.
Checking in a the airport was a little scary (at first). They didn't have me in the system. For a brief moment, i thought i wasn't going. Turns out because i was going international (requires a visa), they have to enter things in manually. The lady finally figured it out...although she should've known. Getting through security was a non-issue. The flight from Houston to Atlanta was uneventful.
Oh how i miss flying! It's not a whole lotta fun as a passenger though. Perhaps once i pay off the upcoming new vehicle and Finding Reason becomes a bit more established, i will have the time and money to stretch my wings once again. I'm jealous josh.
The flight to moscow was loooo-eee-ooooong. Uneventful, which is good, but awfully long. Tried to sleep, but i don't think i got more than 3 hours. I'm still pretty tired.
Made it through passport control without any issues and we received all of our luggage. Met the driver and headed over to the hotel. Checked in...had issues with the money machine (the darn thing wouldn't give us any roubles...at least it gave us our money back.) So we did it the old fashioned way...went to a money exchange place.
Then it was time to try my navigation skillz. Could i find my way around moscow and find my way back again? Ok...you've seen the pictures, so you know the answer to that. Yes, i was able to find my way to the metro, buy tickets, hop on the train, switch trains and navigate my way to Red Square...without getting lost. I popped out of the ground on the wrong side of the street, but that's an easy fix.
Wandered around Red Square for a while...walked down to the Moscow River and took some more pictures. By this time it was getting dark...and only 4:30pm. Worked our way back to Red Square. The one thing i wanted to accomplish this trip was to see Red Square at night. Mark that off the list. It was really beautiful there at night.
We worked our way around to the tomb of the unknown soldier and was stopped by the militia. Matt saw the militia approach me and he tried to wander off like a tourist. Thanks for stickin' by my side! But the militia asked if he was with me so i roped Matt into the mix. Turns out the militia guys were really cool...just checked our papers and let us be. had i not been freaked out at the time (we've all heard horror stories of running in to some bad militia), i would've asked to take a picture with them. Oh well...lost opportunities.
By this time, it was starting to get really cold. So we ducked into a mall and walked around a bit. saw a bunch of shoe stores...but didn't see any converse stores. Oh well. We decided to head back to the hotel to try and meet up with some of our fellow workers. But we missed them. Matt and I walked down to the Tractor...a nice pub type restaraunt. Pork shaslik and some good hotchipore.
That about concluded our very long day. I must say, i think i was asleep within 30 seconds of my head hitting the pillow. However, i woke up about 4am local time and really couldn't get back to sleep.
Time allowing I will try to blog everyday while i'm here. And i hope to post some good pictures, although there isn't much daylight here this time of year.
Thinking of you.
Hope to see you soon...
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