tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78120374729925664202024-03-14T04:42:43.343-06:00These are the days of our lives"Days of our Lives" is set in the midmountain town of Missoula and metropolis of Seattle. At its core are multi-layered storylines involving elements of romance, adventure, mystery, comedy and drama.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-84058532116279703192008-03-31T19:42:00.005-06:002008-03-31T19:58:06.866-06:00The Final Countdown<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0D61YNFtDksNv8xc7mPNOdmELRqnWfZHy8j8wPF0Fa6_hd_cejVKL7w-3YplP3M8HU49Kfs9t8OQ4M_AH3FBDW_3NXPBkyH573RgvYh1XpK7WheVAGDrGlkaSaY4jo-1vfQiaIxKO4pX/s1600-h/IMG_1597.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184086981734933874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0D61YNFtDksNv8xc7mPNOdmELRqnWfZHy8j8wPF0Fa6_hd_cejVKL7w-3YplP3M8HU49Kfs9t8OQ4M_AH3FBDW_3NXPBkyH573RgvYh1XpK7WheVAGDrGlkaSaY4jo-1vfQiaIxKO4pX/s320/IMG_1597.jpg" border="0" /></a>Today it really hit me that in three days I will be rafting and living in the wilderness for the next three weeks. I am <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ecstatic</span> and can't wait! Dropped off Laurel and Omar at the airport today, and we will be meeting up again in two days in Flagstaff to start our float down the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Canyon">Grand Canyon</a>. Did I mention that I can't wait?!?!?!<br /><br />Had a great Saturday with Anna. We did the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">tourist</span> thing, with the <a href="http://www.undergroundtour.com/">underground tour</a>, a trip up the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_Needle">Space Needle</a>, dinner at Moxie in Queen Anne, and we capped off the night at the Paramount with a spectacular performance by the <a href="http://www.alvinailey.org/">Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater</a>.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-69981972425245556932008-03-27T00:44:00.005-06:002008-03-27T01:28:28.677-06:00Back on Track<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCqYUPBn3hyphenhyphenyw6CNEuVsLFW7-0ZHX3UnmbMxS8tVkNiri-DYF7KlbZtT_hH2om8zriZBTRZ31fFpgyuEQymUlT-1ch-fdhy0bTLqsEgPi8kkiSWMJgmQhZu18KxgcqKcW4_h-nhh4jAcZ/s1600-h/IMG_1559.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5182310248253858754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCqYUPBn3hyphenhyphenyw6CNEuVsLFW7-0ZHX3UnmbMxS8tVkNiri-DYF7KlbZtT_hH2om8zriZBTRZ31fFpgyuEQymUlT-1ch-fdhy0bTLqsEgPi8kkiSWMJgmQhZu18KxgcqKcW4_h-nhh4jAcZ/s320/IMG_1559.jpg" border="0" /></a> Went skiing today for the first time since hurting my knee, and it was great! Jon and I got up to Alpental at noon and put in three hours before heading back to town. There was a lot of fresh snow, but it was heavy, especially towards the bottom.<br /><br />Afterwards I went to a Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition event at the aquarium. It was great, with wonderful food, drink, music, presentations, photos, and people to chat with. Good stuff for sure.<br /><div></div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-61326652577454786052008-03-24T16:53:00.005-06:002008-03-24T17:25:52.749-06:00It's SPRING!<p align="center"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy8lutPx5VCjaYgc2-EbuSNCmKeYYOrB0hjneJLa_C8Pl1IlAHWd-SU1gAP5jBE48TqRGVcGHyGu7jbU_o3' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p>The sun is shining warmer, the days are getting decently long and good things are starting to bloom all over. In nine days I'll be in Arizona getting ready to float the Grand Canyon, and I am getting really excited.<br /><br />It's been a pretty social past couple weeks or so with Mary's birthday, <a href="http://www.seattlegreendrinks.org/">Greendrinks</a>, a concert at Gabriel and Jill's with <a href="http://www.myspace.com/billhorist" target="_blank">Bill Horist</a> and <a href="http://www.basskamp.com/obelus.htm" target="_blank">Obelus</a>, another house concert with <a href="http://beastpleasebestill.com/">Beast, Please Be Still</a> a couple days later, dinner for Mary's birthday, Stone Soup nite at Dan and Lara's, and <a href="http://www.honkfestwest.com/">Honkfest</a>. Good fun, crazy, interesting stuff!<br /><br />Otherwise I'm almost healed up and can ski again. Soon, I'll be able to run, then hike, and finally alpine climb once again.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-78299843204703167132008-03-09T16:50:00.002-06:002008-03-09T17:05:48.672-06:00daylight savings...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rWV_cjq1sxvzhj_OuofbL9k99mjzHnKcFdWN_kMgaAyupHCwSlWoQnD8bnCEJs3nxn1nJ1dXIWSHKDOlK7ca9cQw4e7SaY4HiSc4k5pE63-EZY4068iok4WdAgLLOFQqA2ZZkQ3IM2Ub/s1600-h/IMG_1417.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175879875000263538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rWV_cjq1sxvzhj_OuofbL9k99mjzHnKcFdWN_kMgaAyupHCwSlWoQnD8bnCEJs3nxn1nJ1dXIWSHKDOlK7ca9cQw4e7SaY4HiSc4k5pE63-EZY4068iok4WdAgLLOFQqA2ZZkQ3IM2Ub/s320/IMG_1417.jpg" border="0" /></a> March always seems to go by pretty fast, usually because I'm having fun. This year is no exception, though the real fun will begin in April with the Grand Canyon trip. <br /><br />Saw the orthopedist the other day and she said my knee is healing up exceptionally well and I was happy to hear that! <br /><br />In other news, I went on a lovely paddle with Omar, South from Fauntleroy to Three Tree Point. It was a beautiful sunny day with great views of the Olympics and Mt. Rainier. I got a good workout on the way back as we had a four mile paddle into a 10 mph wind.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-38790330884061667642008-02-25T15:13:00.003-07:002008-02-25T15:27:37.983-07:00Is it spring already?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFNJYZt9hI9YCbI4eUWx8Hay_uBOoGBJBSHv1N8qdzwrIx4aUWdNqAjMDukKBDUNb4k7ElYKcmaFKIFuJiwJ29KdZVgw41GmGSk68ktZmgI2-Mp0_erB_ibMs9TYUDf5ZDiK_mAlNN0bk/s1600-h/IMG_1392.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5171045019313429602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFNJYZt9hI9YCbI4eUWx8Hay_uBOoGBJBSHv1N8qdzwrIx4aUWdNqAjMDukKBDUNb4k7ElYKcmaFKIFuJiwJ29KdZVgw41GmGSk68ktZmgI2-Mp0_erB_ibMs9TYUDf5ZDiK_mAlNN0bk/s320/IMG_1392.jpg" border="0" /></a> We have been having balmy weather for the last ten days or so. I'm loving it, riding the bikes tons, and getting stuff done. I have a lot of dreams right now, but one reality I'm dealing with, which is the need to find gainful employment. Time to start working the networks and really hunting down some contracts. March is right around the corner and I am optimistic about what will come to fruition.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-66863919033930334032008-02-24T15:11:00.006-07:002008-02-26T01:25:27.556-07:00Riding Again<p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzY15oLMtyUowpeh5FUmgOX6ql1WmLP8Jw1B2g4S5nZ4OP0xCDpf9ImYtSCxrLRHwksRqqMDQ-QLe4dV3DDPw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p><p>I can ride my bicycle around again! I have been tentative about riding around with my hurt knee, but yesterday rode 27 miles all around town with Stephen and Jon, and it was fine! It was totally awesome to get some exercise and realize that I don't have to drive much any more, especially since we have had nine straight days of brilliant sunshine and warm weather. </p><p>Friday I drove up to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">B'ham</span> with Jeff and Doug. Alan and Rachel threw an awesome dinner party, and Marlin and Christine were visiting from Santa Cruz. It was great to catch up with them and meet a bunch of other cool folks like Nate and Jessica. </p><p>Marlin, Christine, & Doug have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">bikepacked</span> all around the world. Amazing stuff. Check out M&C's amazing <a href="http://www.3dslideshows.com/index.html">3d <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">slideshow</span> </a>website. </p><p>On Saturday Doug and I split early and the other guys had an amazing <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/javasport/sets/72157603976150140/">day of skiing</a>. B*&^%rds!). I'll be good to go this spring, if there's any snow left... </p>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-25077774695706138992008-02-21T13:30:00.003-07:002008-02-21T13:35:18.287-07:00Lunar Eclipse<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQP7LbqMFwSPQkYWhDh4YHS5SZI0aBn0KIRpemhHync6tICkL9OH5td46ytwPj_Bt37-6a5J3U5CAnFf2rFdAwokAyhuSZnRgVblSelmVTo1063z2T8svoJONMrnn4E52sNgwiDG6QJHb/s1600-h/IMG_1364.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169533852250201106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQP7LbqMFwSPQkYWhDh4YHS5SZI0aBn0KIRpemhHync6tICkL9OH5td46ytwPj_Bt37-6a5J3U5CAnFf2rFdAwokAyhuSZnRgVblSelmVTo1063z2T8svoJONMrnn4E52sNgwiDG6QJHb/s320/IMG_1364.jpg" border="0" /></a> Thanks Julie, for pointing out the lunar eclipse last night! The moon was right outside my bedroom door and I spent a pleasant celestial moment checking it out.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-40726083391520780292008-02-13T16:33:00.002-07:002008-02-13T16:40:10.579-07:00Straight Edge<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislSCu1oUqq03Ycn8DOFEr1KSglDZt5Fzl9LjlEP9AnaiIgZHyjfGsWwxorYZ515kSNeLIUqU_7BeqytX00N0NYUNfOiLFKISsF5r8L8rg1Z2APSmNA4skYLa6jaQgNR9bUYlBYqJFkeuT/s1600-h/IMG_1284.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166612389725657618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislSCu1oUqq03Ycn8DOFEr1KSglDZt5Fzl9LjlEP9AnaiIgZHyjfGsWwxorYZ515kSNeLIUqU_7BeqytX00N0NYUNfOiLFKISsF5r8L8rg1Z2APSmNA4skYLa6jaQgNR9bUYlBYqJFkeuT/s320/IMG_1284.jpg" border="0" /></a> That's right! Ha ha, I like it!!! It was scary decision though. Now I have to get up extra early every day to shave it up. By crazy coincidence I met up with Lawrence at <a href="http://www.rudysbarbershop.com/">Rudy's</a>. Then I bought a new battery for my motorcycle and went and had lunch with Karin in Pioneer Square. OK, back to work!Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-64650479296005270982008-02-12T16:28:00.001-07:002008-02-13T16:43:19.609-07:00Febluary<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Y9uoJNSFc0xPO9Lr38zdDywSKkbxepWD0bZvoeM7CWqYIotWkk_RSONEKBDGjlqStK39a3Xqfe3JSYvqh8-jcVFNY6pgbcr9hpBREbgh6kqHWM7NOc0uvPHVdzf9s55O5pByO2ThVPlD/s1600-h/IMG_1241.1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166614507144534562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Y9uoJNSFc0xPO9Lr38zdDywSKkbxepWD0bZvoeM7CWqYIotWkk_RSONEKBDGjlqStK39a3Xqfe3JSYvqh8-jcVFNY6pgbcr9hpBREbgh6kqHWM7NOc0uvPHVdzf9s55O5pByO2ThVPlD/s320/IMG_1241.1.jpg" border="0" /></a>The days are flying by. I can gimp around pretty good and hope I can start riding my bicycle soon. Right now I'm working on a new website and business plan. Other than that I've been really social hanging out with friends around town. Saw <a href="http://www.intothewild.com/">Into the Wild</a>, produced by Sean Penn and adapted from John Krakaur's 1996 book. It was really good, and definitely struck a huge chord in me.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-26390156784959947402008-02-05T15:02:00.000-07:002008-02-05T15:09:39.783-07:00Torn MCL!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvJnEI8QhizU2eSFJXr4XAiKiLO0PnP98IIp5Sq11HKC_7eTzRm_cwK0P5TJIpYc11LJNrBkrtKyZS32E8vcrkOCAZ1oqZPNNUt07DMICi2UX-i3ftg0ARpJdvqZcs1MzaPJbkYhKPp3L/s1600-h/MCL+tear0006.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163620204322339314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvJnEI8QhizU2eSFJXr4XAiKiLO0PnP98IIp5Sq11HKC_7eTzRm_cwK0P5TJIpYc11LJNrBkrtKyZS32E8vcrkOCAZ1oqZPNNUt07DMICi2UX-i3ftg0ARpJdvqZcs1MzaPJbkYhKPp3L/s320/MCL+tear0006.jpg" border="0" /></a>On Sunday I tore my MCL on the inside of my left knee during a ski crash. You can see the tear on the right side of the knee in the image above, high up on the white ligament. Bad timing, but fortunately the tear isn't catastrophic so no surgery is required and I can get around with a brace. Unfortunately, no more skiing for me this season. My doctor will look at the MRI today and give me her official diagnosis... <div></div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-43595193493036517632008-01-28T02:18:00.000-07:002008-01-28T02:28:44.835-07:00Excellent Weekend in the Mountains<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0U-Ipt9mIGpVXnWwuQSNBhyHrbkzCuvpqs33KRGf3HZUt24AtTIjiMzHTFdx8sb4aEbfHzN6AbF1yPKHm-QajgH4uK3m9P7impJpI6FhroagxHLv7VGvxCLgMxp-V5_xda1c9B2xfd8Ja/s1600-h/IMG_1132.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5160456896484325762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0U-Ipt9mIGpVXnWwuQSNBhyHrbkzCuvpqs33KRGf3HZUt24AtTIjiMzHTFdx8sb4aEbfHzN6AbF1yPKHm-QajgH4uK3m9P7impJpI6FhroagxHLv7VGvxCLgMxp-V5_xda1c9B2xfd8Ja/s320/IMG_1132.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Met up with Jeff on Saturday morning and drove across Steven's Pass on highway 2 for some ski touring on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Lichtenberg</span> Mountain. The snow was great and we enjoyed a steep climb up and powdery decent, after which we met up with Doug at the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Nordic</span> center and Mary & Suzie who spent the day at the ski area. We stayed at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Chiwawa</span> mansion and hung out with a big <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">bon</span> fire before curling up and watching <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amores_Perros">Amorres Perros</a>. My hip was hurting from the tour so today I read and stretched while the others went skate skiing.</div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-73769965464515897812008-01-21T10:47:00.000-07:002008-01-21T11:01:11.120-07:00Weekend at Mt Baker<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfefeOZZP0K5pzKLbeuWrnfVLKpdKtv14YDrfSiT73nMJJZBBBK0EER0TM4h7I94I21devPMyxdXZWGXOfDJqEhajoavtZaRndd29gBooBxHA7GnD5JxEhyphenhyphenCoU5tglidliE0e0JxnC0zp/s1600-h/IMG_1064.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157991175750112066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfefeOZZP0K5pzKLbeuWrnfVLKpdKtv14YDrfSiT73nMJJZBBBK0EER0TM4h7I94I21devPMyxdXZWGXOfDJqEhajoavtZaRndd29gBooBxHA7GnD5JxEhyphenhyphenCoU5tglidliE0e0JxnC0zp/s320/IMG_1064.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Awesome weekend of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">telemark</span> on Mt Baker. Stephen and I drove up Friday and stayed at the <a href="http://www.mountaineers.org/">Mountaineers</a> Lodge, along with a boyscout troop, Captain Snore, and handful of friends from back in the day. Kevin organized the trip and I got to catch up with some cool folks, and do some serious skiing. I took it easy because I was worried about my hip, but it turned out to be fine. YES!</div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-4426262952363829442008-01-13T23:37:00.000-07:002008-01-16T14:24:55.265-07:00Moving again<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9mE8Xu3CEZMX26L3YNll9FLGWMC0yAIsyBeg2-PiMq5-xdkNkkwWlWNflOQ4ekWbE6SBB9tPZdH00EU6XltpYiYENeaTNS6OR_3QdkJ2piAxVXT0cfTOItp8ncQYNEeSeaZXuvEbxLan/s1600-h/IMG_1038.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155218057101005362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9mE8Xu3CEZMX26L3YNll9FLGWMC0yAIsyBeg2-PiMq5-xdkNkkwWlWNflOQ4ekWbE6SBB9tPZdH00EU6XltpYiYENeaTNS6OR_3QdkJ2piAxVXT0cfTOItp8ncQYNEeSeaZXuvEbxLan/s320/IMG_1038.jpg" border="0" /></a> Today was a gloriously sunny day, and I had two huge quality of life boosts. First, much to my joy, I found that I can ride my bicycle around no problem, and get some serious exercise again. So, I went for a quick ten mile spin around Seward Park and back. Then, I charged my moto battery and got the bike running after it has been sitting all winter long with no love. Looking forward to getting up to Mt Baker this weekend for a couple solid days of skiing.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-9996181337255466692008-01-09T14:08:00.000-07:002008-01-09T14:15:12.435-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMfSeHU-ajfdcRM3xGq0TDwj1FTFgU55G8tLUahZqTwqaM29-Uu8cuGpuqDEUgXdDhFgiVkYppoh10snRRle3KXi0F2alatzZEpbkXrTB9Re9OyaGdUKtUGwUIOoWyCNr6IvDlCYJd3-gn/s1600-h/IMG_1005.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5153587086220022050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMfSeHU-ajfdcRM3xGq0TDwj1FTFgU55G8tLUahZqTwqaM29-Uu8cuGpuqDEUgXdDhFgiVkYppoh10snRRle3KXi0F2alatzZEpbkXrTB9Re9OyaGdUKtUGwUIOoWyCNr6IvDlCYJd3-gn/s320/IMG_1005.jpg" border="0" /></a> It's been a wet winter so far, with lots of snow falling in the mountains. I'm still healing so am taking it slow. Right now I am working hard, doing a lot of research, and spending a lot of time on logistics that keep popping up.<br /><div></div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-34563743403330509462008-01-01T17:06:00.000-07:002008-01-08T11:15:21.478-07:00Happy New Year!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZUHtT0F5yk4izbJ2yDhigv90Mi4lnY5SNZ_Q244Smenqj80VGHBaUuqZTAd6T364AWE6-Na2gGss64-rl9G2PJxtO9sj1dwjZghCKi4lwTEgCSB7MyXr8yh2MK8xFlE7T60HexmXpSW0/s1600-h/IMG_0963.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150666139091546210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZUHtT0F5yk4izbJ2yDhigv90Mi4lnY5SNZ_Q244Smenqj80VGHBaUuqZTAd6T364AWE6-Na2gGss64-rl9G2PJxtO9sj1dwjZghCKi4lwTEgCSB7MyXr8yh2MK8xFlE7T60HexmXpSW0/s320/IMG_0963.jpg" border="0" /></a> The day didn't start out very good... Someone hit and run my car while it was parked out front of the house and my insurance doesn't cover it. Bummer.<br /><br />Sadly, I couldn't make it to Bellingham to meet Stephen, Summer, Jeff, TJ, Al etc, because I didn't want to risk the trip before getting my car inspected. So I met Jon for a bite at Ruby's in the U Distirict (old stomping grounds) then Suzie and Lisa invited us to spend the evening with them on Queen Anne at a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Warriors_%28film%29">Warrior's</a> party. A nice way for the day to turn out.<br /><br />Suzie and Lisa created a new gang called the Suicide Bunnies, based on the groundbreaking work <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Book_of_Bunny_Suicides">Bunny Suicides</a>, and they decked us out in great costumes. Some people thought we hadn't seen the movie since we were showing up as a new gang. Stephen rented it a few two years ago (along with Easy Rider I think).<br /><br />The party was in an old three story apartment with rooftop deck and everyone opened their place for one big party. Thanks Sarah!Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-88644224200497604412007-12-28T10:15:00.001-07:002007-12-28T10:26:19.300-07:00Happy Crazy Christmas<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXdoWgVjSpdruhruZ8cjERdLcywJtJMLogndARPhdmamnXNAiGmXGH7M0N1mF-utOsmLrviw-gVZ0oY_dBf9s2D1EGGRC1LBSnozWqK8wF7_WjyvoI3fP6Jp65ZCDoDwn_ql6kNmTnk_L/s1600-h/IMG_0816.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5149074591532449906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXdoWgVjSpdruhruZ8cjERdLcywJtJMLogndARPhdmamnXNAiGmXGH7M0N1mF-utOsmLrviw-gVZ0oY_dBf9s2D1EGGRC1LBSnozWqK8wF7_WjyvoI3fP6Jp65ZCDoDwn_ql6kNmTnk_L/s320/IMG_0816.jpg" border="0" /></a> Time's flying by with the holidays and all. Life is good, though my hip is still healing and I can't ski yet, even though it is DUMPING in the mountains. My 2nd grandfather passed away and that is heavy. Looking forward to 2008!!!<br /><div></div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-25230894939145172862007-12-21T03:53:00.000-07:002007-12-21T03:56:14.316-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxVqD6RKekFYgUH7chok7UVf-aJkzdPOvb2YClUqswf7YfE0zVJkqt2FClTt38Qk3KHbofo_w_yXy0xBZyEPKtnhYPuZ7KnfhWslb9CQ_K_pzw8DqaMtFaJsBNfj858bdHLUmRIwiCd2St/s1600-h/IMG_0823.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5146377914711277634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxVqD6RKekFYgUH7chok7UVf-aJkzdPOvb2YClUqswf7YfE0zVJkqt2FClTt38Qk3KHbofo_w_yXy0xBZyEPKtnhYPuZ7KnfhWslb9CQ_K_pzw8DqaMtFaJsBNfj858bdHLUmRIwiCd2St/s320/IMG_0823.jpg" border="0" /></a>For the last three weeks I have been totally debilitated by a hip sprain. In the mean time I've started consulting as a private contractor, and have a started work on a project with a wind energy development company, which is very exciting. In other news Hoonah and Marina are best friends now, and I am totally thrilled to be back in Seattle, reconnecting with friends and meeting new ones. Hopefully I'll be healed in a week and can start skiing!!!!Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-83872527027979360552007-12-02T23:03:00.001-07:002007-12-02T23:12:51.032-07:00Seattle Snow<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihn7a6LVgmML-0-GuZjNRQAhvIgcyqqKgCJF7xiGNN_I50PsqrdoESKkeNXRxcoN0PfZlGwtVn6qEVwLoYXuzBb36m-zNf30JQQ7y2Txhks49b_fl5mpY7CPG7Zg6EFaLFo7CU4o_a9emx/s1600-r/IMG_0703.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139625382773159890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ8LFpNcuoShwk82XtywZCEDm01-WwQ43tlx6AV2Vf5SVSH5RaOWiQ7ZmjquJS6EIfKK4ui8nmg2wBM8aAN1Y5R6rtznTiZ87dMq00SvKPjxKHvZd4-5Q5P3G_ZQCrHdlUFVKOwmotoMJ8/s320/IMG_0703.jpg" border="0" /></a>Been a good weekend with friends, pets, and time to get settled while the snow flies. Baker and Crystal recently opened, so hopefully it will stay cold and I'll start getting some runs in.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-42359426073790936552007-11-27T12:48:00.001-07:002007-11-27T12:54:01.374-07:00Taking shape<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxytK56OrEjk9Cc5BNoEZvXbLG4I2CqvfOqudWZXCt8xUz3__uXtg69cswHJ_2DEdF0TIc19IZiDNPX0TD7siTYYwkT8DIM1avKPdr0GpWRaJb0Hm4YqmbOBItVgy2y9nUIuinkPmPh-a6/s1600-h/IMG_0647.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5137610022610908114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxytK56OrEjk9Cc5BNoEZvXbLG4I2CqvfOqudWZXCt8xUz3__uXtg69cswHJ_2DEdF0TIc19IZiDNPX0TD7siTYYwkT8DIM1avKPdr0GpWRaJb0Hm4YqmbOBItVgy2y9nUIuinkPmPh-a6/s320/IMG_0647.jpg" border="0" /></a> Getting settled in as are the cats. It's great to be home! Lots to do...<br /><div></div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-46069132027277254242007-11-26T17:24:00.001-07:002007-11-26T17:28:03.725-07:00Back in Seattle!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUk-l1fv-I-0D7RwjB89IE0FFStfiiAdNBFJXAE17xPI72OYtCi-SP164ifr3eawPM6VBd_iVxB78D6K8OlsMo6tUUXGQpfCUtOvCLSEIS5EFshWD2UDqiyPWHhAvh4gPAVyjsvP2pFAM/s1600-h/IMG_0638.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5137309808691884946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUk-l1fv-I-0D7RwjB89IE0FFStfiiAdNBFJXAE17xPI72OYtCi-SP164ifr3eawPM6VBd_iVxB78D6K8OlsMo6tUUXGQpfCUtOvCLSEIS5EFshWD2UDqiyPWHhAvh4gPAVyjsvP2pFAM/s320/IMG_0638.jpg" border="0" /></a> On Saturday I packed up the Subie and trailer, cleaned out my apartment and set out for Seattle. The trip was smooth, I was able to go 60mph the whole way, and made it in nine hours. Now I'm settling in and unpacking boxes, thrilled to be back in Seattle.<br /><div></div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-49044883670980451502007-11-22T22:12:00.000-07:002007-11-22T22:42:33.855-07:00Happy Thanksgiving<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMg8b3iEvGfHJSHO6jvTphyphenhyphenqTdvVCagtUTNtS3Wsv5zGONBWNOoaFILDZQEBEjLD8H8s14tdKrZ9gn3S1uPxb9KcCPzn-ZXIhpZfeL01NExLH3OioDe4WMHS4nO1vpbbTLbvVgsbpS1bBm/s1600-h/IMG_0635.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5135899968497103666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMg8b3iEvGfHJSHO6jvTphyphenhyphenqTdvVCagtUTNtS3Wsv5zGONBWNOoaFILDZQEBEjLD8H8s14tdKrZ9gn3S1uPxb9KcCPzn-ZXIhpZfeL01NExLH3OioDe4WMHS4nO1vpbbTLbvVgsbpS1bBm/s320/IMG_0635.jpg" border="0" /></a> Had a delightful dinner chez Claudia, and otherwise packed the day away in preparation for a Saturday morning departure.<br /><div></div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-82207214393427347462007-11-21T18:51:00.000-07:002007-11-22T21:31:56.502-07:00The Final Countdown...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuS_5t8VzA849Kc7QufP2uAdGX_BSCP2B6-fH2q_sbpJ9UqsI53h93i7XPnW-bMReDhagIgS4H5A8yrqjGizX4HMHM-B9iCP3tS8tnJMCVBwHICp_MCNinpwydelpp-LEfZrNFuWjPiX1/s1600-h/IMG_0626.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5135477274995700482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuS_5t8VzA849Kc7QufP2uAdGX_BSCP2B6-fH2q_sbpJ9UqsI53h93i7XPnW-bMReDhagIgS4H5A8yrqjGizX4HMHM-B9iCP3tS8tnJMCVBwHICp_MCNinpwydelpp-LEfZrNFuWjPiX1/s320/IMG_0626.jpg" border="0" /></a> A few of us got together last night at Gary's house for a final farewell. It was a lovely evening sipping wine, eating <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">hors</span> d'<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">oeuvres</span>, and telling stories.<br /><br />Today was my last day at the office. Good luck, so long, and farewell Forest Service!Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-7943636106631123342007-11-19T16:04:00.000-07:002007-11-19T16:07:01.557-07:00Let it Snow!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoia1AxoaCkNrtK5d3zYcIQRu3Od9ipXf_IGy29SPhIyQZwrn3wzXhhajczc7DYW3I3vr22QB-RKJn5fpgqqvmAdFLrmjdFtxm2rdPwv0Rn0um2F7FS-zKD_LBXezSDUMRpqXggpIYp5T/s1600-h/IMG_0623.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5134691781311836786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoia1AxoaCkNrtK5d3zYcIQRu3Od9ipXf_IGy29SPhIyQZwrn3wzXhhajczc7DYW3I3vr22QB-RKJn5fpgqqvmAdFLrmjdFtxm2rdPwv0Rn0um2F7FS-zKD_LBXezSDUMRpqXggpIYp5T/s320/IMG_0623.jpg" border="0" /></a> Now we're talking!<br /><div></div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-91908423883964933442007-11-17T22:34:00.001-07:002007-11-17T22:47:29.963-07:00Final weekend in Missoula<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN74h6VlUMaApfkhDcSwxz8nI6mCf73mLJmRogIUYH2kThG7O3u5uqYDDBujQhn0jvVKLf6ZMO5QGH1Gk60Pg1wc0GI2EIXxUZ2V33tKohJ497aG2tfkCEftqQXQeO0vHwidpiQGgxwzoh/s1600-h/IMG_0610.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5134051302903755122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN74h6VlUMaApfkhDcSwxz8nI6mCf73mLJmRogIUYH2kThG7O3u5uqYDDBujQhn0jvVKLf6ZMO5QGH1Gk60Pg1wc0GI2EIXxUZ2V33tKohJ497aG2tfkCEftqQXQeO0vHwidpiQGgxwzoh/s320/IMG_0610.jpg" border="0" /></a>Getting into the final this and final that mode, where I start thinking about all the things I wanted to do but never got around to, friends made, mistakes, and highlights. It's a process that I've gone through a lot in life, and while there are always some regrets it always feels edifying in the end.<br /><br />Today was a warm and drizzly day, and Jennie and I hiked up Mt. Sentinel to get some exercise and pontificate about all those big questions like following your bliss, religion, choosing where to live, relationships, etc.<br /><br />Now it's time to stay focused and make sure the transition to Seattle is as smooth as possible and I'm prepared for everything that lies ahead. I still have one more week here so the adventures are definitely not over yet.Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7812037472992566420.post-57613529048466788502007-11-11T10:42:00.000-07:002007-11-11T15:26:21.465-07:00Finally... Snow!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbxXwqSARHJvbghAvzbbNTmZSQEbx4tcW60oU-_WmghmAPH5xax5r6NT_BRoDsYxkKQ-llMIa654d6PpeBxwBUm2oR09MRgdhFUJqmEDz68p_ojIK15d9itJeNnr4axa1hA1OStpi3QiO/s1600-h/IMG_0585.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131640202853308514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbxXwqSARHJvbghAvzbbNTmZSQEbx4tcW60oU-_WmghmAPH5xax5r6NT_BRoDsYxkKQ-llMIa654d6PpeBxwBUm2oR09MRgdhFUJqmEDz68p_ojIK15d9itJeNnr4axa1hA1OStpi3QiO/s320/IMG_0585.jpg" border="0" /></a>It's a lazy Sunday, doing some research on the latest fisheries issues in Western Washington and watching the snow fly. The kitties are seeing snow for the first time and they love it! Took a hike up Mt Sentinel and it felt great to get out in the crisp air and get the pulse up.<br /><div></div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG56X-1r-WOazrpiddUfBq3El6JI7ZZtJmLZ5md_3urTeYeOJyLll4b6nViB5T9N7Q9wTokwpk6fwEkkX0dk2p22crycyj_0LccCRCYJaHRwEdojzq6-Us4VyKDVwHYzEvaRA5lQhacSY9/s1600-h/IMG_0591.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131712160735385842" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG56X-1r-WOazrpiddUfBq3El6JI7ZZtJmLZ5md_3urTeYeOJyLll4b6nViB5T9N7Q9wTokwpk6fwEkkX0dk2p22crycyj_0LccCRCYJaHRwEdojzq6-Us4VyKDVwHYzEvaRA5lQhacSY9/s320/IMG_0591.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div>Nick Spanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01463819767305555963noreply@blogger.com0