tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-360148182011-09-29T02:08:29.747+01:00Musing of a wee gnome living the adventure!ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.comBlogger641100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-35761436674788183612011-06-24T04:03:00.000+01:002011-06-24T04:03:38.769+01:00

And so it was the longest day of the year... Sunny to boot. Where has the Gnome been...? As you'll recall the BIOS was acting out on my Mac when last we spoke. I'm sorry to report that a slew of new technical glitches have kept me off the air, although not entirely away from my camera. I made a special trip to Florida last month... not once, but twice, to see STS-134 (Endeavor) launch on 16 May

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-91953415531310617082010-12-31T17:58:00.000Z2010-12-31T17:58:32.329Z

Howdy... Where have all the stories and piccies gone? Well, my dearest Mac seems to have worked its little Pentium heart into a coronary. In English, the Bios chip continues to reset itself and Apple has requested a tune-up to investigate. (At least she didn't go to pieces like my Nikkor 18-135mm len!) So my Apple has been under-the-weather and is currently undergoing the last of the digital

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-65168755382898065662010-11-12T19:55:00.002Z2010-11-12T20:11:49.843Z

Just the briefest of notes... - The housekeeping is done - the car is cleaned and most of the junk tucked away; - The obligatory flu and general cold have come and gone; and - The nuts and bolts of getting the most out of 'Nome are sorted with a few new features waiting in the wings. I can now turn my attention to the pictures and stories. Yippee! Me thinks we shall start in Canada next week.

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-19912454404281997012010-10-21T08:33:00.000+01:002010-10-21T08:33:15.526+01:00

13,324 miles in ~154 days. Stories and photos will start around 1 November 2010. Stay tuned, there are some great adventures.

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-2282003317112372182010-07-21T14:18:00.002+01:002010-07-21T14:23:23.536+01:00

Howdy howdy! The wagon train officially left Syracuse, New York headed south/southwest on 12 July 2010 after a wee run to Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada and a couple other central New York outings. More on those and eastern Pennsylvania this evening (fingers crossed!). 'Nome is also undergoing a bit of a modernization with the addition of tabs at the top for: Flickr (dailies from the road);

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-20622672338344712982010-05-13T19:15:00.009+01:002010-05-13T19:28:53.382+01:00

Update! Update! - 'Nome has been undergoing some long overdue housekeeping! I've got a new look but the content is the same. Still ironing out the kinks and working on new bells and whistles. If you have any suggestions, both positive and negative, drop me a note. Cheers!On with the story...A little over a year ago, I boarded yet another mode of transportation, this time an aeroplane, for what

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-69350668604076902452010-04-30T04:09:00.009+01:002010-04-30T04:37:49.277+01:00

… domestication?It recently occurred to me that my little, sanity-saving, project got a wee bit lost with all the ‘life changes’ of the past year. Well, as a means of a very very very brief update of the past 12 months: - Interviewed and got (Hooray!) a job in upstate New York;- Traveled: upstate New York, Outer Hebrides & Edinburgh surrounds (Scotland), and a doosey of a trip to Egypt (more on

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-76840360187205058802009-08-30T12:01:00.007+01:002009-08-31T13:01:05.249+01:00

On 28 August 2009, at 0804 PST our family welcomed into the world baby Alyssa Leona (meaning: of noble kind; lion)! Yes, I'm an auntie x2 now!Vitals: 18", 6lb9oz, potential ginger with green-blue eyes. Watch out!Here are a few of the overnight pics with now 'big brother' Donovan and baby sister Alyssa.

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-92100054879224370492009-08-08T13:47:00.004+01:002009-08-08T13:52:51.590+01:00

Howdy howdy.Been working hard on several projects at home these past few weeks but yesterday I had company:Poor little guy took advantage of the cool breeze landing in my lounge to admire the view. Trouble was, he got stuck between the panes and nearly exhausted himself fluttering. A half-hour later he relinquished and was rescued. Sometimes, we do "get by with a little help from our friends."

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-43658903470295766362009-05-30T12:26:00.008+01:002009-05-30T12:55:32.836+01:00

Wow! Where does the time go? Does it speed-up as we get older? Or, do we simply find more ways to fill the space?I was recently reminded that it appears I have been ‘off-the-radar’ since late-February due to the vast numbers of e-mails from friends and family wondering if I was still alive. Just to clarify, yes, I am indeed alive! But, it seems the winds of change are upon the horizon.As means of

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-74355589565317213062009-02-23T02:18:00.006Z2009-02-27T00:56:08.093Z

Edinburgh is a beautiful city, even on the dampest and mistiest of days. I fully understand why it is called The Athens of the North and fostered the Scottish Enlightenment (and a vast number of inventions which shaped our modern world). But, these days it is packed with politicians, students, financiers, and a steady stream of tourists. For those of us who are creative souls, the place comes

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-31728236274822317762009-02-15T17:41:00.012Z2009-02-15T18:22:23.737Z

After a busy year of gnome-ing, I took a much needed holiday from my adventures and journeyed west to visit friends and family. Sadly, the rather routine 15 hours from Edinburgh to Seattle turned into an epic 33 hours filled with missed flights, interesting passengers, and weather! At one point Delta wanted me to get through security in Atlanta without issuing me a boarding pass. Luckily I wasn’t

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-22062524188284148832008-11-03T12:47:00.005Z2008-11-03T13:02:02.227Z

Howdy all you roaming gnomes!Its been a busy year for this Roaming Gnome...But, first and foremost I wanted to encourage everyone to GET OUT THE VOTE on election day. As we prepare to bid farewell to a marathon 21 months of campaigning, SNL parodies, and rock star rallies its time to make your voice heard! Even while roaming, this wee gnome took the time to both register to vote in her home state

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-60053962758052718732008-06-26T23:32:00.006+01:002008-12-12T00:56:45.482Z

After spending all weekend indoors at Crieff Hydro learning to think 'creatively,' I opted to ramble and spied...And...Company arrives tomorrow to help me celebrate a long awaited achievement and roam around bonnie wee Scotland.

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-39474086221629951362008-06-19T16:52:00.004+01:002008-12-12T00:56:45.672Z

So, way way way back in April, my dear Macbook started to get grumpy. She made the most atrocious noise at start-up - I wouldn't say 'death curl' but not far from it. After panic backing up the hard drive to an external I turned her off and lovingly whispered, "I hope you start-up when I get back from Greece."A month later she did wake up, but she was suffering. Several expensive phone calls to

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-70997873379401680952008-05-07T17:21:00.002+01:002008-06-26T23:31:20.558+01:00

Actually, sounds like it should be an international aid organization, but, the Gnome went roaming in Greece without one and returned to civilization only to send her's for surgery and start a new job. Sadly for the readership, this means you've not been treated to fun stories. Happily for me, I got some rest.Never fear - I've sorted out an interim solution and the navigational portion of my

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-60838035012260074972008-04-22T17:42:00.005+01:002008-12-12T00:56:45.847Z

...Rethymnon.The churchbells chime a melody calling the faithful to prayer in the sultry wee hours of the morning. (Greek Orthodox Easter is on 27 April 2008. We are well and truly into Lent.) In what seems like only minutes the bells chime 8 and this Gnome slowly wakes in hopes of a warm shower...Days in Rethynmom are leisurely. After a meandering morning routine including coffee with Ivan (the

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-84933238098465081692008-04-21T20:22:00.004+01:002008-04-22T16:44:58.185+01:00

Greetings from the Selinos region of Crete! Sorry for the delay (and equally information-less post). When I struck out from Rethymnon, I headed south-southwest where the internet is slow to reach. I'm actually using the managers computer at a bar called the Lotus to post to you - hence the brevity!Apparently, I'm on the edge of being a hippie based on my holiday destinations... but more on that

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-44136242372925880332008-04-13T12:19:00.005+01:002008-12-12T00:56:46.086Z

Kali mera! (Or, "Good day" to those speaking Latin based languages.)As much fun as paying €23 a night to stay in the port city of Iraklion, while freezing under 5 blankets, was I've pushed west into the prefect of Rethymnon. Departing at 2100, the last bus of the day wound its way around the cliff-top curves of the northern shore towards western Crete. Thankfully, a skilled driver was at the helm

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-22421205180394074942008-04-08T14:20:00.010+01:002008-12-12T00:56:46.683Z

... And the Mythical KTEL Buses.NB: You get two for the price of one today... Don't miss the previous post on Knossos.Let down by Knossos, I decided to take an adventure south towards Festos Palace the second most important Minoan site. Easy peasy, right?Dressed in my khakies, boots and expedition hat I walked to the Iraklion bus station and purchased a ticket for the 0900 to Festos. Shortly

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-69049750682578862752008-04-08T13:38:00.010+01:002008-12-12T00:56:46.867Z

Iraklion is the third largest city in Greece, and the largest of Crete, with a population of around 120,000 souls (before the cruise ships dock). I arrived on a cold and wet Saturday and was... well... less than impressed. I've tried to come up with something positive to say about the city, but haven't been able to find anything, sadly. For the first time in all my years of roaming, I actually

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-27609197090797086232008-04-05T20:09:00.005+01:002008-12-12T00:56:47.084Z

Live from Iraklion (Crete)... Its Saturaday night!Having chosen not to travel with technology (save my camera which is expensive enough) I've left the laptop at home. Good thing too... It started making a rather pathetic noise as I turned it off on Tuesday morning and needs to visit the Apple clinic urgently. =( As I am paying for the priviledge of posting to you these next few posts will be

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-89783148922467018562008-04-01T08:04:00.004+01:002008-04-13T12:14:41.373+01:00

Time seems to have been at a premium these past few days... As some will recall from the fall, my aunt and uncle hit the road and explored some of the 'Big Sky' states in the US. Seems they are off again, this time destined for the deep South. For a bit of Americana, check out: On The Road Again.Happily, I'm off to practice one of my favorite phrases while pondering huge piles of of rocks (I mean

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-52979966327721804082008-03-27T14:29:00.008Z2008-04-13T12:15:19.985+01:00

I love my maps these days. Having recently been introduced to Google Earth, I thought it might be time to chart some adventures on a map...View Larger MapIf all is working correctly, you should be able to enlarge, navigate, and click on the tacks for 'Fast Facts' although you may have to zoom for this to work. In this trial for my trip to Amsterdam last May, I've linked the blog entries.What do

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-7216687441440114362008-03-24T21:36:00.009Z2008-12-12T00:56:47.471Z

To my mind, Easter came earlier than usual this year. Somehow I even managed to miss out on my favorite chocolate treat - Cadbury cream eggs.After some investigation, I learned that Easter is based on the cycles of the moon - about 14 days after the first full moon closest to the vernal equinox, to be exact. Strictly speaking this can be anywhere between 22 March and 25 April in Western

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-90276141405315636072008-03-17T17:32:00.004Z2008-12-12T00:56:47.978Z

Traditionally, the Ides of March is 15 March and synonymous with impending doom (a la Julius Caesers' assassination). Well, it hasn't been all that bad... Thus far March has come in like a lion, though. After days of damp and hail, the skies opened to present this breathtaking scene. Can you spot the double rainbow?The Roaming Gnome has been on a PR charm offensive over the past few weeks

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-13238280854566758372008-03-03T19:16:00.003Z2008-03-24T22:20:25.266Z

As it seems this gnome is stuck in rubber cement, I'm living vicariously for the moment through a few new found friends. I thought I'd take the opportunity to introduce you to their travels until mine resume in a few months time.1) Euros Ate My Dollars Meet Ben and Brittany, two 25-year-olds from Virginia. (Oh, to be 25 again... Wait a minute, that wasn't a good year!?!?) They left the good

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-55200300258236305462008-02-27T22:17:00.004Z2008-12-12T00:56:48.238Z

My little black book is definitely overflowing with numbers. Although, I doubt randomly dialing them will lead to more than dead air on the other end.In the end my opus contained 30,897 words over 226 pages and was submitted almost 7 years to the day I was offered this position in Edinburgh. Who knew I’d travel so many miles in magic shoes and funny hats?What next? Well, if you ever wish to

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-51565626723550956942008-01-23T15:43:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:56:48.513Z

After less than 1 hour and 45 minutes, the University of Edinburgh as decided to award this Roaming Gnome a Doctorate of Philosophy. I’d like to extend a huge thank you to all those adventurers who’ve supported this fanciful pursuit over the years.Dr. M-

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-7562272602283342262008-01-19T11:35:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:56:48.527Z

Sincerest apologies for the delayed tales. As most will know I’ve been engaged in a spot of non-fiction writing these past few months. Although… at times a certain amount of creativity was required to prevent the tome from turning into fiction.For those interested in stats and averages: My thesis was submitted on 2 November 2007 at about 13:15 GMT. It contained 221 pages, 29848 words, and 22

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-57469557501139448272007-12-24T13:36:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:56:48.754Z

Happy Holidays! Things at Gnome HQ have been very busy as of late... but more on that another afternoon. I wanted to wish all of those who have popped in for a visit over the past year a very merry Christmas wherever you may be roaming.Curious how Santa is getting on with his deliveries? Check out NORAD (yes, the US spy satellites) who have been keeping a very watchful eye on our cheerful

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-43787407277441095732007-09-06T16:42:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:49.947Z

It occurred to me the other evening that I've been busy busy busy with a number of projects and as such we're behind a story or two. The past few months have seen me sheparding my long-term baby to completion while moonlighting as a photographer and getting very little sleep. However, all this effort is paying dividends this fall. I have entered two photography contests, one of which I was

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-2777855634284926472007-07-11T18:33:00.001+01:002008-03-24T22:21:48.516Z

After all the hoopla this past weekend over the NEW Seven Wonders of the World, this itchy-footed gnome had to comment.First, do you remember what the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are?The Great Pyramid of GizaHanging Gardens of BabylonTemple of Artemis at EphesusStatue of Zeus at OlympiaMausoleum of Maussollos at HalicarnassusColossus of RhodesLighthouse of AlexandriaAfter consulting with

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-24550686075322266352007-06-20T21:00:00.000+01:002007-06-21T13:01:44.108+01:00

Howdy faithful adventurers!I've been beavering away on another project the past few weeks so time has been a bit scarce for assembling pictures. I'm hoping to get caught up over the weekend. Watch this space next week.I'll be hitting the trail again 29 June to 2 July - thinking of heading south to avoid the dreaded midges. As ever, I welcome suggestions and/or company.

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-7230154093844436802007-06-12T16:35:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:50.528Z

25 May 2007I was starting to think I'd never get out of town! When I picked up the hire car, I fully intended on stopping in Queensferry for a few pictures of the Forth Road and Rail bridges. Unfortunately, road rage and the 90 minutes to get out of town got the best of me - I hit the bridge with a lead foot! Get outta my way!I headed north with nothing more than a mental map of Scotland. Once

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-29469282791914728052007-06-06T11:54:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:50.718Z

Where we're going, we don't need roads."-Doc Brown, Back to the Future (Amblin Entertainment, 1985)Well, we might need roads, but burn the map!In our fast paced, 24-7 global economy it can be hard to find stillness. Some find it behind a bolted front door, or a wee dram, or meditation. When I get a bit stir-crazy, I tend to head for the hills – fresh air, viridian landscapes, and vast cobalt

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-82409994582780678952007-06-03T22:51:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:51.929Z

It just wouldn’t be right to leave Amsterdam without a few more pictures.I stayed at a smoky, but quiet, hotel in the Southern Canal Belt. Every morning started with a quiet stroll along Reguliergracht, culminating with a look down the canal at the 15 bridges that cross it. Often, tourists rent pedal boats to tour the canals (look toward the mid-left to see one).The ornate detailing and variety

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-62475741760360148442007-05-24T23:47:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:53.567Z

When I think of Holland, two images come to mind – fields of crimson and buttercup tulips and Delft blue and white windmills. Don’t ask me why.Traditionally, the first week of May is the perfect time for viewing ‘late’ tulips and bicycling along the Bloemen Route (flower route) between Haarlem and Lieden. However, as you’ll recall from my April adventures in Scotland, it seems spring came

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-27178979335349892007-05-21T11:20:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:54.801Z

After calling Schiphol airport my second home for the best part of five years, it was time to leave the departures lounge and explore the Dutch capital. Better known for its vices, I strayed from the tourist trail of the Dam and Red Light district to find a genteel and tranquil beauty.The Western and Southern Canal Belts are a walkers (and bicyclers) haven. Away from the tourist trade, the “

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-36642688246267224052007-05-11T09:01:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:55.046Z

Seems the spring blossoms have come and gone. Silly me missed them as I was working so hard on my thesis. =(But, in honor of my annual anniversary I'm off to Amsterdam to track down some tulips. Pictures next week!

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-30597463666485654272007-05-02T23:56:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:55.518Z

Close your eyes. Imagine a gentle breeze rustling the branches of a budding plum tree. Can you feel the breeze? How does it sound? What does it smell like? Over the weekend, I wandered out of the office and away from the troublesome computers to discover ~in the field’s sublime installation piece, ume, tucked away in a stairwell at Stills (on Cockburn Street). In seconds flat I was

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-74615648632200199862007-04-25T11:45:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:56.790Z

After the traumas of hiring a car and getting out of town, we found ourselves in the rolling, green pastures south of Edinburgh known as the Scottish Borders. The stretch of the A72 between Peebles and Melrose is particularly pretty as it winds along the River Tweed in the warmth of early spring – buds just on the trees, little moos and bahs bouncing around the field, unwinding tourists like

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-32197401359328634602007-04-21T11:37:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:56.897Z

Fancy a dram? Need to surf the net? Give The Malt Shovel on Cockburn Street a try. Lovely green pub with a real homey sort of feel, great live music, and over 80 whiskies to sample its a fantastic place to update ones blog and catch up with friends. Or, if you're like the gnome, make new ones... I was waiting for a mate last night when a number of chaps asked if I could help them out. They were

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-69582352373062021702007-04-19T20:24:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:57.111Z

Where has the roaming gnome been roaming? Well, it seems my company from Western Washington were keen to see a bit of Scotland... via 4 wheels.After reserving an automatic from Enterprise on the web, I was gun ho about driving on the wrong side of the road! But, in true gnome fashion, life threw us a curve. When I arrived at Enterprise, promptly at 9am, there was only one attendant and the office

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-31913511551129177812007-04-10T05:49:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:58.632Z

I'm starting to think it may be a universal truth that wherever I live I'll find the zoo... Pink flamingos for Dad.Is that a small child?20oC is to warm, turn down the heat!Company's favorite critter.My favorite critter.Think monster trucks rumbling by... Wonder what got into these two besides the spring weather? Awe twitterpaited...Last year Edinburgh sponsored the CowParade, a charity event.

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-42583580084947653642007-04-03T21:57:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:59.227Z

As a present, my company arrived with the sun on Sunday!Once a month, Fredrick Street (Edinburgh, Scotland) becomes a traveling market. Barkers from Holland, Germany, Spain, and Southern France display their wares in hopes of impressing the punters… Makes for wonderful street theatre!

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-89434860865565785352007-03-29T22:41:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:59.354Z

Probably the single reason I fell in love with this city...

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-56491761172983287692007-03-25T22:34:00.000+01:002008-12-12T00:56:59.927Z

For a few days, at least.Gorse (Ulex europaeus), a native evergreen shrub, is in bloom. These coconut scented, yellow flowers are protected by sharp spines and currently carpet the rugged slopes of Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags.(I'm not terribly happy with this assembly. The hazy sunlight does no favors for the seams.)To my company from Western Washington – temps look to be similar to ‘home

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-36747066850888098902007-03-18T14:08:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:00.839Z

Unlike the US, the UK celebrates Mother’s Day in March. And, as Mother Nature seems to be at the forefront of conversation these days, its appropriate that she is battering the UK with northeasternly gales and a bit of the white stuff rather than the loving warmth the crocuses and daffodils crave on this ‘her’ day. Aberdeen and parts of northern Scotland awoke to a chilly white blanket this

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-17956945969528806162007-03-15T09:00:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:01.843Z

Luckily, K is as adventurous as I am. So, when I suggested a quick walk around the Museum of Florida History as a means of staying dry during a sudden deluge she said, “You know, I’ve never been in there.” An hour’s diversion quickly expanded to the remainder of the afternoon when we stumbled upon the 25th Annual Capital City Quilt Show.I recently learned that over twenty million Americans

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-70714652220704236822007-03-13T22:45:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:02.076Z

Memo: A departure from the travelogue for a few minutes as I work on my digital photography skills.This digital photography stuff has a steep learning curve...It took me a little over six months of research before I could stomach handing my shiny VISA card to the clerk at Ritz Camera in exchange for my Nikon D80 in mid-January. Sadly, I've learned my hand isn't as steady as I thought; too much

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-17145521635756447772007-03-05T15:57:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:02.369Z

On the eve of the 2005 G8 summit at Gleneagles, an article appeared on the front page of The Guardian highlighting our disappearing natural wonders. Regardless of your politics, a picture of an almost barren Kilimanjaro, for the first time in nearly 11,000 years, is a poignant one. I’ve been fascinated with this beauty ever since.-The volcanic crater at the summit of Kilimanjaro, Alex Majoli/

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-10120329496077474952007-03-04T10:55:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:02.596Z

Fascinated by the heavens from an early age, I never miss a chance to gaze skyward and awe in the magic of it all. Last night was another cracker! Despite BBC claiming a day filled with rain, the heavens only opened up for about 90 minutes in the early evening treating us Edinburgers to an atmospheric sunset and cold clear night. This is wonderful news to a stargazer, especially last night as

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-88557545163484550512007-02-26T19:19:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:04.585Z

Despite Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction of an early spring, it seems most of the US has battened down the hatches as nature unleashes one last winter blast. Across the pond, Edinburgh isn’t fairing much better – there’s a crispness in the air reminiscent of fall and ominous storm clouds rolling in. While I tuck into a steaming mug of cocoa, I thought it was about time to recount some more of my

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-9951692049678942007-02-13T10:56:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:04.981Z

If, like me, you've looked to a guide book for help planning an escape you'll be interested to know both Lonely Planet and Rough Guides turn 25 this year. And, if you like to wonder about how the world has changed I'd have a look at Simon Calder: The Man Who Pays His Way from this past weekend's Independent:Simon Calder: The Man Who Pays His WayOn to the survey... This taurean is rapidly

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-21319508395891732282007-02-08T22:09:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:05.261Z

outside is frightful... Let it snow! Let it snow! -Sammy Cahn & Jule StyneDespite Phil declaring spring is on its way, I doubt few in the Northern Hemisphere believed him this week. After the warmest January in over 90 years, the United Kingdom was treated to arctic temperatures the past few days. And, for the lucky, up to 4 inches of snow overnight. Edinburgh wasn't blessed with more than a

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-37367658814452202172007-02-02T14:41:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:05.802Z

"Okay, campers, rise and shine, and don't forget your booties 'cause it's cooooold out there today." - First DJ, Groundhog Day (Columbia Pictures, 1993)I'm guessing more than just Edinburgh felt that way this morning. At dawn, it was clear and crisp, certainly not 'spring predicting' weather. Yet on this day, February 2nd, American rural folklore proclaims, "If the groundhog sees his shadow,

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-47240888846139613702007-01-29T11:13:00.000Z2007-01-29T11:34:44.596Z

Dearest Readership,Just a brief note... I've upgraded 'The Roaming Gnome' (as required by Blogger). In the process I've made a couple of improvements. You'll now find:1) Links to some of my mates sites & the wider world;2) Anti-spamming security (sorry to those who don't want to register to comment); and3) Listing in the Blogger registry.This last point is helpful if you'd like to know when I've

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-59825140935769496332007-01-28T16:20:00.000Z2007-01-28T16:26:00.521Z

... bus, not dog, sorry!Now that life is finding a ‘normal rhythm’ (which really means I’ve got both reliable Internet access and a little bit of free time), I thought I’d post a few stories and pics from the New World… In November, I hit the road thinking it was a great opportunity to see old friends and my baby nephew. First stop: Tallahassee, Florida and my high school buddy K.I arrived in

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-15480200438574078012007-01-23T00:23:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:06.222Z

Howdy Partners!I've finally arrived in wintery Edinburgh - cold, burrrrr! BBC is forcasting clear and cold, -4oC, for dawn with a daytime high of 3oC on Tuesday! I arrived to a chilly, but secure. flat. After 14 hours, the central heating is still churning away on its quest to reach 19oC.I must apoligize for the lack of correspondences over the past few months - I was both mobile (sans computer)

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-1163460285003771352006-11-13T23:22:00.000Z2006-11-13T23:24:45.010Z

Hi all you cats and kittens!Just a brief note while I wait for the second leg of this latest journey (a Greyhound from Atlanta to Tallahassee), to say... I'm headed to the land of plantations and beaches. =)Pictures and adventures coming your way soon!

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-1162324418683512122006-11-02T17:30:00.000Z2008-12-12T00:57:06.394Z

There are times in life when one is required to be a grown-up. Happily, they are few and far between.In recent years, I've missed out on the festive holidays which pepper the end of the calendar. (That's what happens good, little boys and girls when you are working relentlessly on a PhD.) Following a bit of nostalgia last fall and the carving of my first pumpkin all by myself (see picture), I

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-1161129062017340722006-10-23T21:48:00.000+01:002007-02-23T19:31:46.383Z

The circus has packed up, the actors have taken their curtain calls, and the tourists have stumbled back onto trains, planes, and automobiles. Hurray!Usually home to a shade over 400,000 students, politicians, etc.; the ‘Athens of the North’ swells to over 4x that number in August. And for those of us ‘natives’, you either rent your flat or bolt the door. On the surface, that may appear to

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014818.post-1161451106017882152006-10-21T18:12:00.000+01:002006-10-21T19:16:36.053+01:00

what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.”- John Lennon, from 'Beautiful Boy'There is truth in John Lennon’s woefully understated advice to his son, Julian. After spending the better part of three months at leaving dos for mates and coworkers, I find myself reflecting on the passage of time. When I arrived on the soggy shores of Scotland five years ago, I had a simple objective

ScienceMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10881828126855758298noreply@blogger.com0