Хлапето от Сиатъл

Midwinter Chillaxing!

2012-01-24T13:43:00.000-08:00

I'll be honest, January isn't my favourite month... But it does have one thing going for it...

Nothing beats a solitary mid-winter walk on a sunny afternoon!

Absolutely beautiful! Crisp clean air, blue skies, sideways light --all courtesy of January!

Made for an absolutely relaxing chill out session in St James's and Hyde Park!

So proud of my niece...

2012-01-10T14:21:00.001-08:00

Sister Smithee stepping off the plane in Warsaw, Poland to begin her mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Бялата зала- любимото ми място в Лондон

2011-06-12T10:18:00.000-07:00

Haven't seen the sun in two weeks so I decided to post these photos to remind myself what it looks like.

London Eye from the Embankment

Георги Дечев в съзерцание

Two Saturday's ago it was absolutely beautiful outside so I decided to go for a walk in my favourite part of London: Whitehall

Not only is it loads quiter than Trafalgar, Leicester and etc, but the architecture is amazing!

For example ^

Джордж near the Foreign Office and War Room Museum

The Cenotaph

Lady Europe (Foreign Office)

Lady America (Foreign Office)

Liking the architecture

...and again.

Cenotaph at dusk

Entrance to Horse Guards Parade

Horse Guard Parade

Георги впечатление на Камерън

St James's Park

And finally, me looking for a grassy patch...

To fall asleep! ...NOTHING beats a sunny day in Londontown!

Random photos taken for no particular reason!

2011-02-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

Yeah... so... now since the worst month of the year is finally out of the way, It's time to start blogging again! This year, I decided to start things out with a redesign. I also gave my blog a new name... The name is almost as creative as the last but this time it's in Cyrillic which makes it better. For this, I have to thank my best friend George and my other best friend Mr Google Translate for their assistance.

Ok... so... now for this weeks blog posting. I've decided that random photos are always the best so here are 5 random photos taken from the last week.

This is a picture of my favourite gargoyle. Perhaps it's a little weird to have a favourite, or to take a picture of one for that matter, but I think it's a cute little guy. This church is across the street from my flat so I see him every day and my friend Andreea has named him 'oggie'.

Maybe it's the Seattle in me but I think London's beautiful when it's grey outside. This is a photo of the Houses of Parliament taken from Lambeth.

River Thames in 'ANGRY' mode. Sometimes it looks like only a stream but when the tide comes in, I feel like it's going to wash the whole city away!

My neighbour on the first floor is a smoker which means our whole building smells like it. This is our main entrance and I've learned never to breath until I get to the top of the stairs. I've also learned never to open certain cupboards in the flat because it lets all the air from the downstairs in.

Boris Bikes! I've been thinking about joining the scheme ever since the Mayor launched it 7 months ago. Only problem is the closest docking stating is a 10 walk from my flat. Is it really worth it if it means I still have to walk??? Maybe in another 7 months I'll actually make a decision.

I think I'm going to give up on Blogging...

2010-10-23T13:39:00.001-07:00

It's too much work and I'd rather sleep. :)

I've decided to take up the piano... again.

2010-02-23T14:59:00.000-08:00

My story is a typical story. Something along the lines of:

-Boy gets put in piano lessons by mother.
-Boy pretends/fails to practice.
-Mother tells boy he'll regret it when he's older if he quits.
-Boy quits anyway.

In my case, I quit about 15 years ago (yes, I really am that old). But, lately I've been wishing I didn't. In fact, I'm now even thinking about taking it up again.

So, to make a long story short, today I went to the Hyde Park Chapel to practice the piano. Once I got there I spent the time downloading videos with the security guard---but hey, it's a start. Plus, I think my maturity was clearly demonstrated by the fact that I actually showed up with an 'intent' to practice. Who knows what might happen next time!! (I'm envisioning something along the lines of actually practising and even learning a song).

So to be short, this is what you can expect from me in the future:

A Christmas thought...

2009-11-25T14:41:00.001-08:00

‘Good King Weneslas’ has always been one of my favourite Christmas songs. The lyrics tell of a noble King who amid the inclemates of winter weather, has compassion on a poor man seen searching for food. The Good King then calls his page and together they travel with pine logs and wine to help the man in need.

Along the journey, however, the wind picks up and the darkness sets in. The cold of the night makes the trek almost unbearable and the page pleads with his King to stop. The King, however, knows how to help. He states, 'Mark my footsteps, good my page. Tread thou in them boldly, thou shalt find the winter's rage freeze thy blood less coldly'.

The lyrics then tell how the page is warmed as he treads in his master’s footsteps and together they are able to accomplish the task of helping the man in need.

Historians agree that this song was likely based on Bohemian king who was known for giving alms to the poor. Whether events occurred as the lyrics indicate, however, is less certain. Despite this fact, what I love about the song is the fact that it is a perfect analogy to our own relationship with our true King Jesus Christ.

I’ve never understood why He loves us so. When I think of my own faults and inconsistencies, I am amazed He’d even bother to ‘look out’ into the cold dark night. Nevertheless, He does just that. Over and over again, He shows us compassion by giving us forgiveness and a hope that allows us to change.

After being nourished, however, he asks us to follow him by seeking out and strengthening others. This isn’t always the easiest task. It wasn’t easy for the Prophet Joseph Smith who was eventually murdered for his faith in Christ. It also wasn’t easy for Alma, Ammon and Moroni nor was it easy for the Apostles of the New Testament. Nevertheless, these men went forward searching those in need. Once they found them, they nourished them with the one thing they knew could save--the gospel of their Good King, Jesus Christ.

I have always been amazed at how these men were able to accomplish their tasks despite at times experiences the same cold and icy nights as the story’s page. The Prophet Joseph Smith, for example, was imprisoned for extended periods of time and often witnessed abuses and wrongs committed against his people. The Prophet was able to go forward, however, because like the page, he knew his master and followed in His footsteps.

I know I have a long way to go. But just as prophets such as Joseph marked and followed the footsteps of his King, I hope to do the same. Our Good King has shown us the way. The nights may be dark --the winds may blow-- but nothing beats the warmth of the spirit as we follow in His footsteps taking them one step at a time.

I love my Good King who has had compassion on me and marked the way that I may go.

Merry Christmas and Happy 2010!

The Keystone of My Religion...

2009-11-02T18:49:00.000-08:00

I loved this last General Conference! One of my favourite talks was that given by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve on the Book of Mormon.

The Book of Mormon has meant so much to me. It has taught me more about my Heavenly Father and has given me a greater perspective on life. It also stands as proof that Heavenly Father continues to reveal truth to us today. This was demonstrated by the fact that the book was brought forth and translated by a prophet. Just like Adam, Enoch, Noah, Moses and Abraham; the Lord has continued to follow His pattern in revealing truth to prophets by calling Joseph Smith. He also confirms the truth brought forth individually through the Holy Spirit or 'Comforter' which brings peace and warmth to our hearts. This is why I love the Book of Mormon.

The Emerald Isle (or at least Dublin)

2009-09-14T17:54:00.000-07:00

There's nothing worth seeing in Europe that you can't already find in the UK, right?! Well, perhaps Dublin is the sole exception. Then again, is Ireland really part of Europe in the first place?!!

Last weekend, my friend Niall showed me around his hometown of Dublin. I have to say I was well impressed! The city is amazing! Although I'm a lousy (or rather lazy) photographer, here are some of the photos I took:

The River Liffey

Christ Church Cathedral

No to Lisbon! Apparently, I'm not the only Euro-sceptic!

General Post Office (site of the Easter Uprising)

If you look close you can see bullet holes on the columns.

The Spire. Former site of Nelson's Column (which the IRA blew up).

Statue of Daniel O'Connell

Another photo of the River Liffey

Trinity College (every time I see a cool campus I want to apply there to study something)

Maybe I should study whatever they teach in this building!

Unlike London (or at least the City of Westminster), Dublin actually has rubbish bins!

Statue of Molly Malone

Vote NO!

Houses of the Oireachtas

95% of Europeans would vote NO! (I love random statistic like these)

I love meeting with the Missionaries!

2009-09-08T16:43:00.000-07:00

We have outstanding missionaries in the London Hyde Park Stake! Today I had the opportunity to meet with the elders in my ward for a short discussion about member missionary work. What stood out to me the most were the feelings I felt in and as I left the meeting. As I walked down the stairwell into the main foyer, I couldn't help but recognise an increased feeling of peace and goodness and also greater excitement to share the things I know to be true. I have long learned to recognise these impressions as promptings from the Comforter, or the Holy Ghost which the Saviour promised would be given to help us recognise truth.

For me, what makes our missionaries so special is their role and purpose. LDS Missionaries aren't simply trying to convince people of some tenet of belief. Rather, they act so as to help all they serve develop an individual relationship with their Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ so they can find out for themselves. Individuals can then know for themselves that life has a purpose, that families can be together forever, and that all can be clean again through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

During the discussion, one of the Elders asked me what the Restoration (or the calling of the Prophet Joseph Smith) meant to me. Upon reflection, the only thing I could think of so as to appropriately describe what I felt and thought was to exclaim, 'Everything!'

I don't attend church simply because I think it's 'a good idea' or something that's 'nice to do'. I attend because I know it to be true. Our Heavenly Father has once again called a prophet. Through this prophet, He has restored His Church. And we can know these things for ourselves if we are willing to study and ask in faith.

(to learn more ask me, or visit www.mormon.org)

ONLY TWO WEEKS LEFT...

2009-08-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

...YES, THAT'S RIGHT!

After enduring five agonising months of following pointless sports (i.e. baseball and soccer) it's almost that time of year again! Some call it 'The Most Wonderful Time of the Year' ---I call it WASHINGTON HUSKY FOOTBALL SEASON!!!

OK, so anyone who knows me has probably heard of my condition... I think it was first diagnosed at age three in 1984 when the WASHINGTON HUSKIES were named FOOTBALL NATIONAL CHAMPIONS by Berryman, The Football News and The National Football Foundation. The condition was then made worse with WASHINGTON's victory over Oklahoma in the 1985 Orange Bowl and its 1990 win over Iowa in the Rose Bowl.

If my condition wasn't bad enough, however, it then quickly deteriorated when the WASHINGTON HUSKIES were once again named FOOTBALL NATIONAL CHAMPIONS in 1991 after beating Michigan 34-14 in the Rose Bowl! This was followed a year later by what could only be described as 'THE WHAMMY IN MIAMI' (where the HUSKIES dismantled Miami at home winning 38-20). Then came the symptoms associated with the Tuiasosopo Era and WASHINGTON's 2001 Rose Bowl victory over Purdue (34 to 24).

WHAT IS THIS CONDITION I HAVE???

WHY...

...OF COURSE!

OK, so what are the symptoms? Well, here's just a few:
1. PURPLE and GOLD is worn at all times (including church, work and school)
2. If we lose a game, you don't generally see me until morning.
3. When meeting new people, I find out which team they support before deciding if I like them.
4. I only send two-worded text messages on game day: 'TOUCHDOWN WASHINGTON' [in all caps of course]
5. When I find out a girl supports WSU or Oregon, the date is over! ...no seriously, it is!

[Family members: you've been around me the most so let me know if I've missed any out!]

Now about the 2009 season... Although you've all heard my opinions regarding the U-DUB Athletics Department (and what a right mess it is), we do have some good things going for us. Here are just three of them:

1. Our kid Jake is back! Ok, so he's been talkedup for the last two seasons only to get injured and disappoint... but let's face it, if he has a healthy season the Pac-10 better watch out! 'Team Jake' is hard to mess with! (though he better not be doing it all himself again---let's get him an offensive line).

2. "He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named" is gone! Let's just pretend it all didn't happen! ...Ty-who?

3. We recruited DUBS! How can the HUSKIES not have a GREAT season with this little guy supporting us?

GO DAWGS!

2010 ROSE BOWL CHAMPIONS!

The Restoration

2009-07-18T16:01:00.000-07:00

I love this video depicting the first vision of the Prophet Joseph Smith and the restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ. Every time I read or see a depiction of the first vision, I feel the peace and comfort that comes from the Holy Ghost. It is through this peace and feeling of goodness that I know Joseph was a prophet of God.

We don't have to guess our way through life. God answers prayers. To learn more visit: www.mormon.org

Photos that describe my family's frequency in blogging...

2009-05-20T17:52:00.000-07:00

I've noticed a trend in the frequency of blogging on both White, Brown and Beige and the Lazy-J Web-blog. They say a picture can tell a thousand words... can you spot the trend?

Photo 1:

Photo 2:

Photo 3:

Photo 3:

Tropical Rain!

2009-04-19T23:17:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better than a tropical rainstorm!

Not that there's anything wrong with Seattle or London rain---but there's something about running barefoot along a nice warm beach in the pouring rain!

Plus, there's none of that 'mist' stuff---tropical rain is proper size!---giant rain drops that drench you in seconds!

...and only in Hawaii can you enjoy the rain while practically sweating to death!

Of course, some of us were more prepared than others.

But even little Kapono enjoyed it!

And after it all we returned home drenched but refreshed---a perfect end to the day!

If I Were the Bragging Type...

2009-04-06T23:27:00.000-07:00

...after having easily won the NCAA Family Bracket Competition, I would have rubbed it in. Not only would I have reminded each family member that I beat them by at least 50 points while living abroad-- practically cut off from the world of College Basketball, but would probably have also reminded them that I did this without betraying WASHINGTON or picking a single rival school to advance on my bracket...

...But, since I'm not the bragging type, I'll have to just enjoy the quiet satisfaction of knowing that I WON! Of course, I'll be enjoying this sense of satisfaction over two cheeseburgers, a fry and a rootbeer float at Dick's Drive-in! YEEAH!

Laie...

2009-03-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

IT'S CALLING MY NAME!

Viva Le Sarkozy!

2009-03-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

This week French President Nicolas Sarkozy announced that France will be rejoining the core military command structure of Nato. Not surprisingly, the announcement was immediately followed by criticism from the main opposition parties and the President's former opponents. François Bayrou, for example, accused Mr. Sarkozy of 'amputating' France while getting nothing in return. This was followed by Dominique de Villepin's claim that Mr. Sarkozy was 'shrinking [the] country and renouncing [France's] diplomatic calling', and by Martine Aubry who stated that 'nothing today justifies returning [France] to Nato military command'' ('France takes back the Americans', TimesOnline, 11 Mar 2009).

I think these statements are interesting because they seem to indicate that even recent polls which show that 58 per cent of the French populace support the move (with only 37 per cent against) is no justification at all. Furthermore, the arguments say nothing about France's successful role in Nato during the Balkans crisis or the fact that French soldiers are currently fighting alongside their British and American counterparts in Afghanistan. No, true to their revolutionary forefathers, the arguments of Bayrou, de Villepin, Aubry and many others rely solely on romanticised and ambiguous concepts of 'sovereignty' and words without agreed meaning or definition (I mean, what really is 'a diplomatic calling'??!!). All this, while ignoring the real and common threats posed by international terrorism, nuclear proliferation, CBR weapons and drug trafficking. Furthermore, there is no mention of the logistical benefits of a common security force which would combat such threats and strengthen Europe.

Mr. Sarkozy's argument is simple. Apart from its bi-weekly national strikes, France has always had more in common with the UK and USA (and other Nato allies) than not. There are new emerging threats common to all Nato members and France has to be 'progressive'. Mr. Sarkozy has stated, 'a solitary nation is a nation that has no influence whatsoever. [France] need[s] strong diplomacy, a strong defence and a strong Europe' ('France ends four decade Nato rift', BBC NEWS, 12 Mar 2009).

It ought also to be noted that it is highly likely that France will have more of an opportunity to influence the command structure of Nato now than ever before. This is no doubt due to the preoccupation most member states currently have with the financial crisis and by what can now only be described as a very young and inexperience executive in Washington. Sarkozy move may therefore not only give France greater influence in Nato, but perhaps an integral role in determining the organization's overall policy.

Going back to the critics, Martine Aubry recently stated, 'there's... no fundamental need [for returning to Nato], except for this Atlanticism [which is] becoming an ideology'. Excuse me for my apparent ignorance Madame Aubry, but with nothing backing your dissent but ambiguous concepts such as 'France's diplomatic calling', there seems to be no fundamental basis for your opposition other than perhaps your reincarnated de Gualle-like 'anti-Altanticism' which is really what's becoming an ideology.

So, after that long rant, what I really wanted to say is 'Viva Le Sarkozy' for looking beyond ideology and doing what's best for the security of France, Europe and its Allies across the globe.

Our Boy Dubs!

2009-03-12T18:00:00.000-07:00

Within weeks of recruiting Dubs, the WASHINGTON HUSKIES clinched the Pac-10 Title! I'm not saying Dubs should get all the credit... just some of it!

Here's a video of Dubs at his first basketball practice. He's pretty good. With luck, this little guy will bring similar success to football as well!

GO DAWGS!

One more week till SELECTION SUNDAY...

2009-03-06T18:39:00.000-08:00

And having clinched the top stop in the PAC-10, the WASHINGTON HUSKIES are guaranteed an invite to the NCAA Tournament!

That makes this years FAMILY BRACKET COMPETITION all the better!

Our family has several traditions,

First,

The winner of the competition is always awarded an all-expense-paid dinner at Seattle's finest! Yes, that's right, Dick's Drive-in! But for the Bracket Competition we go all out-- We don't settle for Queen Anne but actually make the drive to the one on 45th Street in the U-District!

YUM.... those burgers are calling my name!

Second,

Whoever comes in dead last is awarded a selection of British Chocolate as a consolation prize! This makes losing kind of sweet!

Of course, since I'm currently in the UK, I think I'll be shooting for first!

Third,

Every year my sister Jaime copies my bracket and then tries to claim the picks as her own!

This is a picture of Jaime last June. It was taken 6 months before Basketball season even started but still she was trying to get me to reveal my favourites for the 2009 Tournament!

This year, however, (being the good brother that I am) I have decided to reveal my Elite Eight one week before the teams have even been invited to the tournament!

Here they are Jaime! Have a look.... just know, however, that if I see ANY of these teams in your final eight I will know you have copied my bracket once again!

Oh, and the same goes for everyone else!

1. WASHINGTON
2. Connecticut
3. Pittsburgh
4. North Carolina
5. Oklahoma
6. Memphis
7. Louisville
8. Michigan State

One more thing....

GO HUSKIES!

The Best Thing to Happen to HUSKY FOOTBALL in Years...

2009-02-11T16:28:00.000-08:00

We might have a joke of a coach, an athletics department that no longer cares about winning, and a recruiting class which resembles something you'd see at Wazzu-- but despite the doom and gloom which has been associated with Husky Football (ever since the unjustified firing of Rick Neuheisel that is), we now have one recruit which might end up being the best thing to happen to the programme since WASHINGTON's 2001 Rose Bowl victory.

Sadly, 'Spirit' or 'Whitepaw's Arlut Spirit of Gold Dust' as he is officially called went into retirement following the 2008 season. I'm actually quite surprised Husky Stadium wasn't the seen of massive PETA protests because, let's face it, THIS DAWG WAS ABUSED. Since the firing of Rick Neuheisel, Spirit had to endure loss after loss only to witness the complete collapse of the programme with the record breaking 0-12 season.

Here he is! Our new top recruit! DUBS!

This little guy was named by a school vote. Other top names were Sundoger and Spirit.

Dubs posing by the West Endzone 'W'

Practising his run... I think he's got it down.

...and of course posing for the camera.

First Husky Touchdown of 2009!

Dubs meeting the Press on his first day.

Let just hope Dubs sees better days than his predecessor.

GO HUSKIES!

Snowy Londontown!

2009-02-02T10:12:00.000-08:00

By 09:00 Central London had 8 inches on the ground with the forecast calling for more snow throughout the day. As a result, all bus services were cancelled, service on the Underground was severely disrupted and the King's College Strand Campus closed. This gave me the opportunity to wander around an almost deserted city looking for the perfect shot. Here are some of the photos I took:

Ringo the Snowman!

Entrance to the British Museum (which ended up closing early due to snow)

Snow covered ceiling in the Museum's Great Hall

Lincoln Square

Park in Lincoln Square

North Side of the Royal Courts of Justice

King's College Library covered in snow.

Entrance to King's College Library

The Strand

Snow Family in Somerset House

London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Waterloo Bridge

South Terrace at Somerset House

Victoria Embankment

Westminster from Waterloo Bridge

St. Paul's Cathedral

Near King's College Waterloo Campus

Midnight Stroll Through the Snow!

2009-02-01T16:04:00.000-08:00

I kept looking out the window and then at my watch. On the one hand, the weather forecast had predicted the biggest snowfall in London since 1991. On the other, it was already midnight and I had to wake up early the next day for class. As much as I hate losing precious 'zeds', my love for the snow won out!

The snowstorm was cold, freezing but absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Here are some of the photos I captured.

Lambeth Road (the street I live on)

Lambeth Palace Garden (with the chapel in the background)

Albert Embankment

My snow-midget!

Standing across from Westminster Palace (ok, so you can't really see the Houses of Parliament but I promise you they're there).

It's supposed to say 'London' but really it just looks like 'Lond'.

My head, with Westminster Palace in the background.

Westminster Palace from the South side of Westminster Bridge.

The London Eye from the Westminster pedestrian tunnel.

The blizzard I experienced while walking on Westminster Bridge.

...a place usually swarming with tourists.

Clock Tower in the Snow!

Westminster Bridge facing South.

Clock Tower from Westminster Tube Station

Parliament Square (I think my camera had a bit too much snow on it by this point).

Westminster Abbey

FAKE CANDID PHOTOS!

2009-01-15T12:10:00.000-08:00

We've all seen those photos! You know, the ones on Facebook or Myspace-- i.e. where the person in the photo tries to look 'caught off-guard' or 'surprised' but really it's obvious they took the picture themselves!

Well, this Christmas we decided to have a little competition of our own to see who is best at making fake candids. Each individual was warned and given approximately 5 seconds to come up with that classic facebook-profile-I'm-so-surprized-you're-taking-my-picture shot! Below are the finalists.

After you are done viewing the photos, make sure to vote for the best Fake Candid by voting in the Poll on the right hand side of the screen.

Enjoy the shots.

1. First in our competition is Rebekah Cosette who gives us the 'can't-you-see-I'm-reading', 'why-are-you-taking-my-picture' look.

2. Second in our competition is Madre (or Grandmother to some) who tries to win support with a classic 'I-didn't-even-know-my-picture-was-being-taken' expression.

3. Third in the competition is Spencer who gives us the 'did-I-say-you-could-take-my-photo' look (which actually would be more likely of a real candid shot)

4. Our fourth finalist, Lysa Elizabeth, steps up the competition by adding the 'open-mouth-tilted-head-wide-eye' expression as if to say 'you totally suprized me, I didn't even know you were there'.

5. Chris tries his luck with a simple smile... because, if you really are caught '0ff-gaurd', wouldn't you at least smile?!

6. Finalist number 6, Jaime MacKenzie, adds the shoulder shrug as if to say, 'umm awkward, you're taking my picture while I'm trying to eat'.

7. Some may say it borders on plagiarism but finalist number 7, Isaac Pritchard, continues the use of the shoulder shrug while adding a shocked facial express as if to say, 'I didn't even know you had a camera with you'

8. Finalist number 8, Allison Pritchard, challenges all competitors by not only adding the 'both-hands-over-month-to-contain-the-thrilling-surprise-of-just-finding-out-my-picture-is-being-taken, but also crouches down and gives us the wide-eyes as if to say 'I just won the lotto'.

9. Finalist nine, Jackson Kapono, tries to win the show by giving us the winning 'this-is-either-Christmas-morning-or-somebody-just-surprized-me-with-a-photo' smile.

10. This little princess, Olivia Katherine, tries to slide past her competitors by giving us a 'I'm-too-shy-for-pictures' look. Don't let her fabricated shyness fool you though, this princess can handle her own.

11. Last but not least is competitor 11, little Kaleigh Pritchard. Kaliegh tries to woo support by giving us the 'can't-you-see-I'm-playing-with-toys' look. [It must be noted, however, that Kaleigh is most likely not acting]

Ok, you've seen the photos, now exercise your civic duty and VOTE!

After 55 years, we might FINALLY have a waterfront!

2009-01-12T15:39:00.000-08:00

I was pleased to read in the Seattle Times this afternoon that our mayor, Greg Nickels, has finally WON! The Alaskan Way Viaduct, which was damaged in the 2001 Nisqually Earthquake, will be replaced with a tunnel opening up the city's waterfront for the first time since pioneer days!

I have to say, I'm looking forward to eating lunch void of the stench of urine or the sound of the highway overhead.

And to think people actually still drive around Seattle with 'I [heart] Viaduct' stickers attached to their car!

I mean, is there really anything there to love?

Snowy Seatown!

2008-12-25T22:18:00.000-08:00

Snowy Queen Ann Hill from Magnolia

My nephew Jack!

...about 8 inches!

Kimo and Jack in the snow!

West Dravus Street- closed due to snow!

Snow Angel!

_________________________________

And now, since Rebekah and Jaime don't update their blog on a regular basis (like me), I've also added the following photos:

Allison, Kaleigh, Jack and Olivia with Santa Claus.

...they only had to wait in line for THREE HOURS! (glad I wasn't there)

My beautiful niece Kendle with Jack!

Rebekah and Kimo (with Allison and Kaleigh in the background)

Lysa, Isaac and Jaime

My Father... 'In defense of Christmas!'

Isaac giving us all the fork!

Jaime and Jack freezing to death at Kerry Park!

Batman on Christmas Morning!

As we come together to give thanks...

2008-11-21T17:15:00.000-08:00

This coming Thursday is Thanksgiving Day in America. A day when family and friends come together to give thanks for the blessing they've received. I myself have so many things to be grateful for. I would like to express some of them here.

I am thankful for my Saviour Jesus Christ. I am grateful for the Plan of Salvation; the knowledge of knowing we are sons and daughters of a loving Heavenly Father; that he created a plan that would allow us to come to earth, gain a body, and learn to be more like him; and the knowledge of our Saviour, who made repentance possible and thus our return to God. I, like everyone else, am far from perfect. I've learned that the longer I live, the more and more I rely on the mercy of Christ. I am thankful for forgiveness and the peace that comes through the Spirit.

I am thankful that the Church of Jesus Christ has been restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. I am thankful for priesthood authority and the gift of the Holy Ghost which allows us to recognize truth. I am thankful for the Temple. What a joy it is to be sealed together as a family. What a joy it will be to be sealed for time and all eternity in marriage.

I know that the Lord answers prayers and confirms the truth of His Gospel through the Holy Ghost. With all these blessing, how can I not express my gratitude?

[For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I invite you to learn more. Visit: www.mormon.org]

Thank You...

2008-11-06T16:49:00.000-08:00

11 November is Veteran's Day, the day we remember the men and women who fought for the freedoms we all enjoy. Thanking our nation’s veterans is one of the best ways we can show our gratitude. In addition to thanking all who served in the Armed Forces, this posting would like to specifically thank the following:

My Father, James Pritchard
Branch of Service: US Marine Corps
Era of Service: Vietnam War
Place of Service: Vietnam

My Grandfather, D.W. Roberge
Branch of Service: US Army
Era of Service: World War II
Place of Service: North Africa

My Late Grandmother, Audery Roberge
Branch of Service: Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF)

Era of Service: World War II

Place of Service: United Kingdom

...and although not yet veterans, all the men and women who are currently serving in the US Armed Forces.

ENJOY YOUR FREEDOM,

THANK A VETERAN!

007 is back....

2008-10-29T18:14:00.000-07:00

ON STRIKE

2008-10-12T11:18:00.000-07:00

Pritchard's Blog is joining with White, Brown, Beige and is officially on strike until Jaime posts!!!

In Response....

2008-10-11T03:12:00.000-07:00

This post is in response to Jaime MacKenzie's request that I update my blog.

Jaime, my blog is officially updated!

2008-10-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

The purpose of this posting is to wish my older sister (and family Pres.) ....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Happy Birthday Rebekah! We love you and are so glad you are part of our family!

Make sure to pull out the pots and pans and celebrate like 'the good old days' (yes, I think we're old enough to use that term now)!

My new niece Keira Audrey Pritchard

2008-09-28T10:47:00.000-07:00

My new niece Keira

born 24th September 2008
7lbs 6oz

Joe, lisa and baby Keira

Keira with her Granddad

Kiera with her papa!

Kiera, Joe, Jaime and Grandpa

...and YES Rebekah, pumpkin bars do sound good :)

Picture of King's College London

2008-09-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

King's College London Strand Campus from Waterloo Bridge

View of St. Paul's from Waterloo Bridge (facing East)

King's Strand Campus south entrance

King's Strand Campus

King's College Maughan Library

Maughan Library (Chancery Lane view)

Houses of Parliament at sunset

View of Parliament from Lambeth Bridge

Losing my window views.

2008-09-07T23:35:00.000-07:00

One of the perks of working in the Henry M. Jackson Federal Building is having some of the best office views in the City of Seattle. Sadly, last Friday I gave up my office view.

My previous window view looking Southwest over Elliot Bay toward West Seattle.

My last window view looking up Madison Street toward the Seattle Public Library.

Picture Tag!

2008-07-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

This posting is in response to being picture tagged by Rebekah Cosette at www.whitebrownbeige.blogspot.com.

In addition to fulfilling her request, I am officially tagging the following: Jaime, Isaac/Allison, Lysa, Dad, Kimo, Lisa/Joe.

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Place I Call Home:

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Magnolia Neighborhood in Seattle, WA - According to recent polls* Magnolia is the most livable and coolest neighborhood in Seattle. (*Note: I don't cite my sources when I make them up or copy them from Rebekah's blog.)

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Beautiful Magnolia!

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View from Magnolia looking east toward Queen Anne Hill, Seattle Center and the Business District.

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View from Magnolia Bluff looking SW over Elliot Bay toward Mt. Rainier.

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Favorite Hobby:

Studying American and British Politics!

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and watching WASHINGTON HUSKY FOOTBALL & BASKETBALL of course!

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Favorite Mode of Transportation:

HTML clipboard Flying, but preferable not on Northwest Airlines or on any plane made by Airbus (I prefer to live).

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Dream Job:

HTML clipboardPrime Minister of the UK

HTML clipboardGuilty Pleasure:

HTML clipboardSleeping longer than is needed!.... and actually, I can't really say I feel guilty about it!

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Favorite Restaurant:

HTML clipboardDick's Drive-in! (Gotta agree with Rebekah!)

HTML clipboardRated in the following order based on location:

HTML clipboard 1) 45th St
2) Holman Rd
3) Queen Anne Ave (only because it's close)
4) Lake City Way
5) Broadway

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Favorite Flower:

HTML clipboardDaffodils...the blondes of the flower world! (This question was obviously written by a girl)

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Favorite Color:

HTML clipboardPURPLE AND GOLD!

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Favorite Vacation:

HTML clipboard HAWAII! (Not even a question here really!)

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Can't Live Without:

HTML clipbMy personal space bubble:

This is especially true when:

-using Seattle Metro

-in an elevator

-talking to someone with bad breath or some other body odor

-walking on First Avenue between Marion and Pike

Picture Tag Instructions:

Instructions:
1. Go to http://www.flickr.com/( or images.google.com)

2. Type in your answer(s) to the question in the search box

3. Use your favorite image(s) of the subject.

4. Copy the html and paste for the answer.

Interesting People Who Should Be Blogging

2008-07-18T16:19:00.000-07:00

In an effort to flood the internet with more interesting blogs, I have identified three interesting people who are currently not blogging but ought to be.

1. Jamie MacKenzie

Reasons Jaime's Blog Would Be Interesting:

1. She knows everything there is to know about Sir Winston Churchill (or Uncle Winnie as she calls him).

2. She knows a lot of facts because she is OCD when it comes to reading and wont finish a book until every bit of text has been read (including the preface, forward, all footnotes and sometimes even the index).

3. She secretly supports Senator Obama for President but wont vote for him because he's married to Michelle.

4. In addition to her job as a flight nurse, which is certainly more interesting than mine, she is the family’s full-time PR Representative.

2. Isaac Pritchard

Reasons Isaac’s Blog Would Be Interesting:

1. He lived in Ontario, Oregon and liked it.

2. He is the youngest of 5 boys… that right there has got to make you tough and give you interesting stories to tell.

3. He is the only Pritchard that did not inherit the Roberge arms (...is he adopted or not?... he also has brown eyes).

4. He actually read his comic books growing up (as opposed to just looking at the picture) so unlike me, he’s an expert when it comes to comic book trivia.

3. Kimo Shon

Reasons Kimo's Blog Would Be Interesting:

1. He is Hawaiian and actually knows how to play the ukulele.

2. He has previously lived in American Somoa and the Phillipines.

3. He married into a family that is obsessed with politics and international relations.

1984 FOOTBALL NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

2008-07-15T21:14:00.000-07:00

This posting formally recognizes
THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON'S
1984 FOOTBALL NATIONAL
CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM!

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HTML clipboardFACT: Prior to the implementation of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS), claims to the football national championship title were made based on various polls. The NCAA did not designate a specific poll to determinate overall team standings nor did the NCAA participate in a system of playoffs (like the NFL). Thus, in any given year, multiple teams could (and did) make claim to the national title.

FACT: In 1984, The WASHINGTON HUSKIES were named Football National Champions by Berryman, The Football News, The National Football Foundation and The Chicago News Fan's Poll. Other polls gave the top spot to Florida, Nebraska and BYU.

HTML clipboardFACT: Although BYU was ranked number one according to the Associated Press, experts agree that when comparing strength of schedule, the WASHINGTON HUSKIES stand alone as the National Championship Team.

HTML clipboardLet's analyze this a little more...

HTML clipboardIn 1984, BYU was part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). Although the team went undefeated, the Cougars were matched up against teams like Air Force, New Mexico, San Diego State and Utah State. Although BYU beat Michigan 24-17 in the Holiday Bowl, Michigan had already lost six games (one of which was to the WASHINGTON HUSKIES who beat them at home 20-11). The Cougars did not beat a SINGLE TEAM in the final Associated Press' top 25.

HTML clipboardWASHINGTON, on the other hand played only top-conference teams. Their only loss came from Southern California (a team that finished 10th in the final AP poll). Although WASHINGTON was invited to play in the Holiday Bowl, the WASHINGTON HUSKIES chose to play against NUMBER 2 Oklahoma in the more prestigious Orange Bowl. WASHINGTON beat Oklahoma 28-17.

HTML clipboard WASHINGTON HUSKIES 1984 SCHEDULE

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Sep 08	Northwestern University	(W) 26 - 0
Sep 15	AT Michigan	(W) 20 - 11
Sep 22	Houston	(W) 35 - 7
Sep 29	Miami University	(W) 53 - 7
Oct 06	AT Oregon State	(W) 19 - 7
Oct 13	AT Stanford University	(W) 37 - 15
Oct 20	Oregon	(W) 17 - 10
Oct 27	Arizona	(W) 28 - 12
Nov 03	California	(W) 44 - 14
Nov 10	AT Southern California	(L) 7 - 16
Nov 17	AT Washington State	(W) 38 - 29
Jan 01	Oklahoma	(W) 28 - 17	Orange Bowl

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BYU's place at the top of the Associated Press and Coaches Poll was due solely to its undefeated record. This angered many within the football community and immediate calls were made for some sort of playoff system accounting for strength of schedule. By the mid-to-late 1990's, BYU's so-called National Championship status became an integral argument used in support of implementing the Bowl Championship Series.

The argument worked. Today, even if a team like BYU goes undefeated, they will not be invited to the National Championship game (e.g. Hawaii in 2007). Why, you ask? STRENGTH OF SCHEDULE! The NCAA recognizes that beating Mountain West teams like UNLV, TCU, New Mexico and San Diego State shouldn't be counted as equivalent to beating Pac-10 teams like USC, UCLA and Cal or Big-10 teams like Michigan and Ohio State.

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FACT: Although Florida had an impressive season in 1984, finishing 4th in the AP Poll and 7th in the Coaches Poll, the team did not play by NCAA rules.

A 30-month NCAA investigation cited Florida for (1) spying on the practices of 7 of their opponents, (2) making cash payments to players, and (3) providing loans to athletes (NY Times). As a result, Florida lost their 1984 SEC Title. Without their own conference title, Florida has a long way to go before they can claim the National Title.

HTML clipboardFACT: Nebraska lost to both Oklahoma and Syracuse in 1984. Although the big N's strength of schedule was a lot tougher than BYU's, a loss to Syracuse in 1984 is hard to overlook.

HTML clipboardIn regards to recognizing WASHINGTON'S 1984 National Championship Title, former Athletic Director Todd Turner stated, "I think we need to take a look at that....If they won a national championship, then their time’s coming. Any measure of success, you need to celebrate it, you don’t need to defend it.”

Laie, Hawaii

2008-07-06T00:53:00.000-07:00

Kimo, Jaime, Myself, Jack and Rebekah at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Hawaii

Our warm beach (North Shore, Oahu)... Puget Sound will never be the same.

Jaime and I,
Laie Temple Visitor's Center

Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

Mi Padre,
Laie, Hawaii