Our Favorite Vehicle

Well, we've talked a lot about this scooter (sometimes known as the Beast), but it is definitely one of the "funnest" things we've enjoyed here.  We're planning on getting one when we come back to the USA, especially with all we've been hearing about the price of gas.

See how tough he looks?  And notice, the fake bullet hole on the side of the scooter.  I ask you, what could make you feel more like a man?  (I really have no idea, since a man isn't writing this...)

The Beginnings of Fall

At last!  The cool weather and beautiful colors of fall are beginning to appear.  We enjoyed a perfect hike today and can sense in every way that fall is fast approaching.  I finally need a light coat!

Here's Michael, handsome as ever!

And me, posing for the REI or L.L. Bean catalogues.

Self portrait--not bad!

Acorns are dropping from the trees all around us, and the squirrels are having a hey-day.

Grammar Queen Rules

Over the years, I have often been the target of gentle ridicule regarding my attention to Proper English Grammar.  Although those arrows stung a bit at times, I held my ground, even when I did not fully understand my own reasons for such steadfastness.  Perhaps it is because most Americans only speak one language fluently (English) and also because perhaps we take it for granted that it will always be there for us.  I caution you, English will always be there (unless we all have to learn Chinese someday instead), but it might not be there in a form that can be communicated.

Case in point: The Poorly Translated Korean Message Shirt

I cannot get enough of these.  Poor Korean women probably think I am fascinated by their chests, but what really peaks my fascination is the abysmal English they advertise all over themselves.  I could not resist buying a shirt for the following message it sported:

*Hello!!!Mouse*

in your carears

you will meat

many people.

All are signillcant

They desaeve you allantion

(half image of Mickey Mouse at bottom)

An "A" in code-breaking if you can figure out what this message truly means.  I have my guesses.

That's all for now.  But may you gain new appreciation in the future for some of the English language's more proficient writers.  ;-)