Tales of Seven

Trip Planning: Step One

For all the benefits of traveling to developing countries, there are always some health risks. Knowing that some immunizations and medicines must be taken well in advance of travel, my first priority in planning the Cambodia trip is immunizations.

I typically:

• Learn about general areas of risk through travel guides, such as http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/asia/cambodia/essential?a=health.
• Determine 'lead times' for immunizations and medicines through the CDC (Centers for Disease Control)  See an example at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/malariadrugs.htm.
• Set up an appointment at a local travel clinic for immunizatons / medications (They are better informed about risks and have open office hours for easy access to care.) I've found this clinic to be great http://www.caminomedicalgroup.com/travel/

Trip to Cambodia

It's been over a year since my last trip, and the travel bug has struck!  Cambodia has risen to the top of the list, as a country that is still relatively untouristed, yet has a fantastic offering of culture, nature, and ancient temples.

I just purchased tickets for a two week December trip, and now the fun of choosing possible destinations in Cambodia begins!

See 'fast facts' on Cambodia at http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/asia/cambodia/

The Politics of Science

Scientists, typically engrossed in their work, haven't often entered the realm of politics. However, the recent and forceful entry of politics into science has created a new movement within the science community. Tired of bullying and misuse of scientific data, scientists are now uniting to encourage the election of politicians who are supportive of good science.

See http://www.sefora.org/index.php  - Scientists and Engineers for America. I'm encouraged that this new voice has arisen in the political arena.

I found this cartoon to be particulary good in representing the challenges they have faced.

Plant a Tree

When I first moved into my house in the Sunset, the vast stretch of concrete without a sign of plant life or trees was very disturbing.

In an effort to change just a small piece of this, I worked with an after school program to plant six beautiful trees outside their school yard. With their help planting and watering, the trees are now in their 3rd year and a beautiful 15 feet tall! Every little bit counts!

Many thanks go to Friends of the Urban Forest; the organization that provided full guidance in selection and purchase of the trees, permit processes and planting techniques. They run a fantastic program working to bring the forest back to San Francisco and are well worth supporting!

http://www.fuf.net/tree_plantings/planting_solo.html

Planting Day: Sir Francis Scott Key Elementary School

Great Science Facts & Articles

I was recently introduced to New Scientist magazine and it immediately became a favorite -- the only magazine I read cover to cover. It strikes a perfect balance, making a variety of science topics accessible to scientists and layman alike, without compromising quality or 'talking down' to its audience.

The topics are fascinating and I'd recommend it to anyone with an interest in the current contributions of science.

http://www.newscientist.com

Golden Gate Bridge

The most typical view of the bridge in the morning. I took this picture today around 7am. The bridge is typically a bright red from the morning sun and our summer fog rolls over the deck to create that 'floating' effect.

Fleet Week Roof Party

Airshow get-together on my roof - a few pictures:

Just getting started...

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A few more arrivals...

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The whole gang...

Just getting started...

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A few more arrivals...

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The whole gang...

That Which Brightens My Day II

Nature and technology.

The little guy versus the big guy.

A brief respite.

That Which Brightens My Day

Just for fun.

The sunflower that lit up my apartment last week.

Fleet Week: San Francisco

Days of jets roaring overhead in tight configurations of stars, boxes and triangles. Sometimes an individual splits off from the group in a fit of independence, smoke clouds trailing behind.

We gathered on my roof, just a few blocks from the action, to watch the show in style. Wine, cheese, truffles, and jets.... very San Francisco! http://fleetweek.us/fleetweek