Romancing the Stone in Bolivia

[Hephaistion]

As some of you know, I have been down here in Bolivia for the last few weeks working on a geological field program. It has been and continues to be, a fascinating experience. Today was no exception.

Inspired by Queen Heidi's "Cranky Clique" post, I thought I would share my bad day with you all. I'm sorry that everyone else is having a bad day too...

But I honestly don't think it could be worse than mine!

I am thousands of miles away from home, I am tired, and hungry and sunburned, and after being here for two weeks was suddenly told to make it three. I am now nearing the end of that three weeks and am heading home on Friday only to find out that my s/o whom I have not seen for 3 weeks, will be in Toronto, thereby making it 4 weeks by the time I see him again. /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Furthermore, I head out into the field today to collect rock specimens several hours away by truck in the mountains near the Peruvian/Bolivian border. An hour into my field work it starts to rain. I'm from Vancouver, so I understand rain. But this isn't just any rain, its like something out of the bible and Noah's Ark - basically its like standing under a waterfall. I am soaked all the way through in about 2 minutes. According to my guide this is not going to stop so we might as well head back. So in a hike that rivals Kathleen Turner and Michael Douglas's from Romancing the Stone (remember that scene with all the rain? - this is the same!) I head back to the land rover, which has of course stuck in the mud. After several minutes we manage to push it out but not without me and Carlos losing out balance after the wheels get a grip and falling flat on our faces into the mud. So now I am still tired, hungry and sunburned, but am also wet and now muddy /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

It gets worse.

As we drive along the very winding narrow roads in the mountains, we come around the corner to find a group of guerillas in the mist. No kidding. Guerrillas. With machine guns. They have set up a roadblock. We're told to get out of the truck. We do. My guide says, "no problemo" this is cartel country, this is normal. (Bolivia is one of the leading producers of cocaine). So now I am standing in the pouring rain, covered in mud, with a gun pointed at me. My guide is talking fast in Spanish with the leader. Apparently they are "working on the road" and "would like a contribution". $50 American dollars each. Now I don't know about other geologists, but I don't usually carry a lot of money with me when I'm out in the middle of nowhere, especially not $50 American ($72 Canadian) so I'm thinking I'm in big trouble. My guide keeps talking with the leader and I notice that he keeps gesturing towards me. Great, just great, I am about to be sold as a sex slave to the kingpin of some drug cartel /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif or even worse.

But wait! They are laughing. The guns are lowered and they say ok. We can go, but first we have to give them any money we have. So I search through my cargo pants and my vomp (vest of many pockets) and voila! I turn up a lowly ten dollar bill. In Canadian. I go to hand it over only to be met with the most comical expression on another man's face I have ever seen. He refuses to take it. "Dinero del monopolio" my guide says, they think I am giving them monopoly money! "el hombre es un canadiense" my guide tells them, (basically telling them that I am a Canadian which seems to explain everything I guess) as the guerillas all laugh, and the man shoves my ten bucks back at me. All is cool and we get back into the truck and keep going.

So away we go back to the minesite and arrive back, just in time for a late lunch. Great I think. I am so hungry I don't care what I eat today.

Now I am a very finicky picky eater under normal circumstances, but here it is even harder. Some of the things served are just down right strange to me, and I think to some of you as well. Anyhow, I sit down in the canteen, now somewhat dry, and wait hungrily for my bowl of stew, hoping beyond hope that it is something normal. It looks good, smells good, its mutton stew apparently, so I start to eat, when I notice a big white thing floating in my bowl. Thinking it's a nice potato I give it a poke, only to have it turn over and stare up at me. Its an eyeball. The sheeps eyeball. In my bowl. The men from my team are excited, apparently its lucky to get the eyeball! I get clapped on the back and am encouraged to eat it up! No way! No siree am I going to eat it! Not even for the $1Million on Survivor would I eat it. So, mustering up all the charm and good-will I can, 100% pretending it is indeed an honour to receive an eyeball in ones stew, I offer it to Carlos, the man who talked the guerillas into letting us pass. He enthusiastically accepts (thank god!) and as quick as you can imagine plucks it out of the bowl, and pops it into his mouth and bites it in half right between the retina.

I managed about 3 spoonfuls of my stew before making an excuse to head back to my dorm to eat the last remaining Nature Valley granola bar I have with me from home.

So that was my day, how was yours? /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Hephaistion]

As some of you know, I have been down here in Bolivia for the last few weeks working on a geological field program. It has been and continues to be, a fascinating experience. Today was no exception.

Inspired by Queen Heidi's "Cranky Clique" post, I thought I would share my bad day with you all. I'm sorry that everyone else is having a bad day too...

But I honestly don't think it could be worse than mine!

I am thousands of miles away from home, I am tired, and hungry and sunburned, and after being here for two weeks was suddenly told to make it three. I am now nearing the end of that three weeks and am heading home on Friday only to find out that my s/o whom I have not seen for 3 weeks, will be in Toronto, thereby making it 4 weeks by the time I see him again. /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Furthermore, I head out into the field today to collect rock specimens several hours away by truck in the mountains near the Peruvian/Bolivian border. An hour into my field work it starts to rain. I'm from Vancouver, so I understand rain. But this isn't just any rain, its like something out of the bible and Noah's Ark - basically its like standing under a waterfall. I am soaked all the way through in about 2 minutes. According to my guide this is not going to stop so we might as well head back. So in a hike that rivals Kathleen Turner and Michael Douglas's from Romancing the Stone (remember that scene with all the rain? - this is the same!) I head back to the land rover, which has of course stuck in the mud. After several minutes we manage to push it out but not without me and Carlos losing out balance after the wheels get a grip and falling flat on our faces into the mud. So now I am still tired, hungry and sunburned, but am also wet and now muddy /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

It gets worse.

As we drive along the very winding narrow roads in the mountains, we come around the corner to find a group of guerillas in the mist. No kidding. Guerrillas. With machine guns. They have set up a roadblock. We're told to get out of the truck. We do. My guide says, "no problemo" this is cartel country, this is normal. (Bolivia is one of the leading producers of cocaine). So now I am standing in the pouring rain, covered in mud, with a gun pointed at me. My guide is talking fast in Spanish with the leader. Apparently they are "working on the road" and "would like a contribution". $50 American dollars each. Now I don't know about other geologists, but I don't usually carry a lot of money with me when I'm out in the middle of nowhere, especially not $50 American ($72 Canadian) so I'm thinking I'm in big trouble. My guide keeps talking with the leader and I notice that he keeps gesturing towards me. Great, just great, I am about to be sold as a sex slave to the kingpin of some drug cartel /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif or even worse.

But wait! They are laughing. The guns are lowered and they say ok. We can go, but first we have to give them any money we have. So I search through my cargo pants and my vomp (vest of many pockets) and voila! I turn up a lowly ten dollar bill. In Canadian. I go to hand it over only to be met with the most comical expression on another man's face I have ever seen. He refuses to take it. "Dinero del monopolio" my guide says, they think I am giving them monopoly money! "el hombre es un canadiense" my guide tells them, (basically telling them that I am a Canadian which seems to explain everything I guess) as the guerillas all laugh, and the man shoves my ten bucks back at me. All is cool and we get back into the truck and keep going.

So away we go back to the minesite and arrive back, just in time for a late lunch. Great I think. I am so hungry I don't care what I eat today.

Now I am a very finicky picky eater under normal circumstances, but here it is even harder. Some of the things served are just down right strange to me, and I think to some of you as well. Anyhow, I sit down in the canteen, now somewhat dry, and wait hungrily for my bowl of stew, hoping beyond hope that it is something normal. It looks good, smells good, its mutton stew apparently, so I start to eat, when I notice a big white thing floating in my bowl. Thinking it's a nice potato I give it a poke, only to have it turn over and stare up at me. Its an eyeball. The sheeps eyeball. In my bowl. The men from my team are excited, apparently its lucky to get the eyeball! I get clapped on the back and am encouraged to eat it up! No way! No siree am I going to eat it! Not even for the $1Million on Survivor would I eat it. So, mustering up all the charm and good-will I can, 100% pretending it is indeed an honour to receive an eyeball in ones stew, I offer it to Carlos, the man who talked the guerillas into letting us pass. He enthusiastically accepts (thank god!) and as quick as you can imagine plucks it out of the bowl, and pops it into his mouth and bites it in half right between the retina.

I managed about 3 spoonfuls of my stew before making an excuse to head back to my dorm to eat the last remaining Nature Valley granola bar I have with me from home.

So that was my day, how was yours? /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Sweet Pea]

ROTFLMAO!!! Jair, I'm sorry, but your bad day seems really, really funny sitting here in my comfy office!! I'm sure it's not funny for you, but I just can't help myself... sheeps eyeball.... ha ha ha ha ha

[AHC]

Poor, poor Jair. I think that in honor of your bad day we should delete the cranky thread. Rain, mud, guerillas AND sheep eyeballs..... YIKES... Sending you a cyber-hug and hopes that the rest of the week will be better....

[Wicky]

sometime in the distant future, this will all seem funny.... HAHAHAHAHA! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[DMK]

hmmm... my day? A damn sight better than yours!!

Congrats on getting out of the sheeps eyeball incident relatively unscathed!

[Sleepy]

Years from now - or maybe next week, when you're safely back - you will think this is funny, too. You really should save all these tales for your memoirs. A friend told me years ago to keep a diary and that later the diary would keep me. I was too young and stupid to believe it, so I didn't. Now, methinks she might have been right. So I will offer the same advice to you, since you definitely have a way with words. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Trooper]

Who are you? Harrison Ford/Indiana Jones in disguise??!!

You know, we bankers never have fun stories like that to tell :-(

[dublin]

Nope, I certainly can't complain about my day so far after reading about YOUR experiences!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

It definitely does sound like something right out of 'Romancing the Stone'.... although that didn't feature a sheep's eyeball in the stew, as far as I recall. Eeeeewwwww, to put it mildly. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif
Looking on the bright side, B.C. will probably never look better to you than when you finally get back home!

"Of course, that's only my opinion. I could be wrong." - Dennis Miller

[a/o]

Jair, that is AWFUL!

New movie topic!?

And I was just about to post on the cranky thread...suddenly it doesn't seem so bad, LOL!!

[Hephaistion]

Thanks guys! Thanks for helping me laugh at it! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

You're right, in re-reading it, it does start to sound rather funny! I'll have to print this out afterwards then Sleepy - so I can keep it in my photoalbum! Good idea.

You're so right Dublin! I can't wait to get home! Vancouver will look amazing to me when I get back - even if it is raining! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Everythingbutwings]

It sounds AWFUL! Poor Jair. Bring Alice and the books to me and I will cook you nice food.

We live in a part of the world with reliable refrigeration and no longer need to eat ALL of the slaughtered creature. Did they have blood pudding? AAARRRRGGGHHHH!!!

Maybe Merry will share her Chicky Pippy cake with you. <Hugs> /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Robby Johnson]

I would be so skinny by now.

Robby

p.s. Cheer up. This is an experience that many people will never be able to [enjoy]. You can tell Alice's grandbabies about it when you're an old man!

xoxo

Indiana Jones while reading this. Do you have the hat??? Have they tried to serve you monkey brains for dessert??? Oooohhh, and the snake???

Someday, you must meet Mr. Mommy, and discuss the boxes of rocks in our basement--oops, sorry they're minerals. If I could spell it, I'd tell you what he did his thesis on. Something about some volcanic island and smegma...

[HuntJumpSC]

"Here's looking at you , kid!" /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif Geez, and I thought almost being in a plane crash was a "BAAAAD" day! Hope things get better for you! /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif SUZ

[doubletake]

Awwwww, poor Jair. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif I hope that you feel better soon...and things certainly can't get worse now, only better /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[B.G.M. heidi]

but I'm laughing and on the verge of needing a Depends to sop up the incontinent giggles. Rumble in the jungle, indeed. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Poor baby - what a difficult day. HAHAHAHAHAHA!

If it's any consolation to you, you've amused your Queen endlessly. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Have you yet stumbled onto that emerald you promised me as a souvenir from your jungular adventures?

So Adrian's in Toronto and you're in Bolivia. Darling, why don't you fly back to B.C. via Toronto and Queen Heidi will show you a good time -- though probably not as good as Adrian. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Have a safe trip home. Here's looking at ya kid! (Get it?)

[Hephaistion]

Haven't seen the blood pudding yet Wings, but there is this horrid alcoholic drink incorporating fermented milk and juice.

More like The Man from Snowy River actualy Silly Mommy! I have on an Akubra hat at the moment. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif and I think you mean magma, I don't want to think about what your husband was doing with smegma! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Thanks RJ! It would have been fun to share this experience with a friend /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif Hmmmm Wings and DMK are pretty ladies, maybe I could have traded them to the cartel for my release .... /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Good idea Heidikins! Will you promise to cook me a nice dinner if I come by?!? I'll give you Alice!!! Anything for a good meal! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

(and yes, I got your bad joke! LOLOLOLOL!)

[Moesha]

Bolivia must be exciting for you even with the difficulties.

Here are some pictures I labled with Jair's name to give everyone an idea of what you saw and where you were.

/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Moesha]

Jair's view

[Moesha]

Shopping in LP!

[Moesha]

Jair trip to Lake Titikaka

[Moesha]

More splender

[Moesha]

Jair in Santa Cruz much more cosmopolitan

[Moesha]

The Beauty of Bolivia

[Louise]

Poor Jair!!! But thank you for putting my bad day in perspective. I hope the rest of your time there passes swiftly and uneventfully and that you are soon safely back in Vancouver, a city where sheep's eyeballs are not served (yet).

Good times my friend!

[Kachoo]

Aaaaahhhhhhhh! I've been among the many who seem to be having a lousy day today, and you've just managed to cheer me up. Amazingly, my sudden mood swing doesn't even have anything to do with taking pleasure in the misery of others /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif. It was just a funny post, and seeing you be able to laugh at a day like THAT makes me think that maybe I can do the same. May your return to lands where you don't have to worry about making eye contact with your soup be swift!

Cheers,
Susie
http://www.kachoom.com

[Everythingbutwings]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> Will you promise to cook me a nice dinner if I come by?!? I'll give you Alice!!! Anything for a good meal! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I ALREADY PROMISED TO FEED YOU! That's IT! Puffin, load up the books and head east. /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

[Reckoning]

Oh Jair! Hang in there!

[B.G.M. heidi]

Thing is Wingsy, Jair's Canadian and in need of comfort food as only a Canadian can whip up.

The dinner menu:

-A veggie Knorr's soup;
-maple syrup encrusted beaver;
-side order of poutine;
-for dessert, 12 walnut crullers from Tim Hortons

And of course:
-a 24 of Labatts

[Mazzy]

Jair Bear....ROFLMAO. Glad to see your eloquent writing skills have not abandoned you. Do take care dearest BB pal and travel safely. By the way, Alice is loving her new home next to Archie. Don't worry, I'm taking fabulous care of her. It was so nice of those people at your barn to let her travel without a signed release form.

[Mazzy]

Maple syrup encrusted beaver???? OMG. /infopop/emoticons/icon_redface.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_redface.gif

Certainly NOT Jair. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[B.G.M. heidi]

You're personalizing, MAZ. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

I knew that.

Just wanted some attention tho, because hubby is far away (Pheonix I think), and I have a migrane to boot. do you realize that an incompetant typer takes 10X as long to type a normal sentance???

[Reckoning]

Isn't maple syrup awfully sticky, Heidi? I would have thought you'd prefer conventional whipped cream on beaver. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[B.G.M. heidi]

Darling, think of it like stick-em, ensures a longer ride. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[AHC]

heidi, MAZ, slugger..... /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[CAH]

Glad to hear that you see eye to eye with many so many people! /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Reckoning]

Stick 'em?! Heidi, I'm rolling!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif And making a grocery list... /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[AAJumper]

Wow, Jair...that sounds like some pretty crazy field conditions. I'll have to pass that along to my geologist friend who used to complain about week long trips to drill in Vegas in the middle of July. Your trip makes that look like a vacation!

The eyeball part of the story was too hysterical! I was dying laughing!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif The people in my office are REALLY gonna think I'm nuts now...earlier I am pissed off and ready to quit, next thing I am in my office laughing for no apparent reason. /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[Hephaistion]

OMG CAH - that is a hysterical sentence! I see "eye to eye" lol!

Moesha! thank you for the pics! The mountain one is pretty well what I've been seeing as I am up on the Altiplano as opposed to the rainforest part, although today I was closer down. I did see Lake Titicaca on my day off though! It was soooo cool!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

Now now ladies, no fighting over Alice whilst I'm away /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif Tis true Wingsy, only a fellow Canuck like Heidi can truly understand what a man needs after a long trip....

and stop trying to corrupt Puffin ETBW!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif She's bad enough as it is!

(BTW Slugger, you seem awfullyinterested in what Heidi is doing with her Canadian beaver... is there something you'd like to tell me? /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif )

Thanks for the update Tosca! So basically you're telling me that rainy Vancouver is the same eh? /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif Too bad I missed that show as I was supposed to be there too /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif Glad you had a good time though.

[This message was edited by Jair on Apr. 10, 2001 at 05:02 PM.]

[Reckoning]

Being the chef that I am, I'm always looking for different recipes, dear Jair!

[Hephaistion]

ah, and like a good chef you like to stick your finger in every pie eh? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[B.G.M. heidi]

you are a vegetarian and thus I cannot share with you my recipe for Sausage Marinated in Red Wine Sauce.

[Mazzy]

Does stick 'em really ensure a longer ride? Hmmmmmm, I guess that's why Beval's sells that sticky stuff!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Hephaistion]

Maz, really, didn't you know that Heidi went to missionary school? /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Mazzy]

OMG Now Jair's going there too. Oh my little virgin ears.

[Reckoning]

I just like the bone. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[AHC]

Heidi learned about sticky stuff and beavers at missionary school? Now I've heard everything! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Spunky]

Jair, I am envious!! It sounds like you are having a marvelous time!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Seriously, you are lucky to have such an exciting job!

XXOO, Spunky /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Mazzy]

Ohhhhhhhh, so that's how you get three beautiful kids, handsome husband and time to rule the Board!! Gee, Heidi, you coulda let me on the secret. I'll share Archie again.....(emphasis on "share"). /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[B.G.M. heidi]

No, Jair. You've mistaken me for someone else in your illustrious past. I was, though, head girl at my boarding school.

[Mazzy]

Why is it that Jair brings out the "best" in us? Oh we miss you Jair. Come home soon, your harem is starving for attention.

[Hephaistion]

Thanks Spunky! I actually thought of you the other day when I was looking at rocks and posting on the BB at the same time! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Spunky]

Hmmm, is that a compliment? Coming from a geologist, I guess it is!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Spunky]

Here I sit at my desk and plan qualifying two new suppliers -- BOOOOR-ING!!!!! I'd much rather be in Bolivia -- even in the rain, being pulled off the road by Guerrillas in the Mist!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Trooper]

Sausage ... bone??

No - I think a nice tender-loin, firmed up under the broiler is more my speed.

I'm eager to see all the recipes though!

[Hephaistion]

Awww thanks Maz /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Are you volunteering to be head concubine? /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Mazzy]

I already thought I was........wink wink wink!

At least consider me the leader of the Harem SOB (South of the Boarder). Wingsy is certainly leader of the Harem SOB - West. Heidi of course, is Chief Officer of the international holding company. The Beaver is definitely our official mascot.

[Reckoning]

Jair! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif You promised me that position! After all those pies I tasted for you...sniff... /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

Mazzy- Long Live The Beaver.

[This message was edited by slugger on Apr. 10, 2001 at 05:40 PM.]

[Blinky]

Eye hope you have a better week. Not much longer and Vancouver is awesome!

[Hephaistion]

that's bad Blinky! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif but so funny!! LOL!

[Everythingbutwings]

Virginia is south of NY, the center of the Mid-Atlantic. Not the Mid-West, that is Robby's domain (although I truly hope he bolts east).

I am not giving this up without a fight, Jair is vulnerable! Puffin has his password and access to his library. She can be bought!

At least Heidi is not promising him cheesy chunks on lord knows what as part of the menu. That, I could not attempt to recreate in the RV. Prime rib, medium rare with twice baked potatoes, grilled ahi tuna steaks, marinated pork tenderloin with baby vegetables and escalloped potatoes. Cornish Game hens with fettucini and portobello mushrooms.

I don't believe that "beaver tail" fits in the RV freezer. Please Robby, come east, I have the nicest Rothschild bordeaux chilled and waiting.

Let me just open up "Paintshop" I will put Willow's name on the double sized stall in anticipation of her pregnancy. Alice stays, Puffin is good. Jair is boosted. Humpf!

[Puffin]

I think you got that mixed up ETBW!

MUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Lovely Alice]

You vill be coming back to your lonely Alice soon, ya? Und I vill be taking care of you, after nasty time in jungles of South America. You must be making money to keep me as I am deserving, I know, but I would not be liking it if you vere sex slave of drug person. He Who Bought You For Me is wery nice, but is not you.

I am being missing you wery much. liebling.

[rockstar]

Jair, your wonderful post with all of its imagery was one of the funniest and greatest posts. Ever.

And PS... y'all have a very sick sense of humor! /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Mazzy]

Beaver should never go in the freezer!!

[Everythingbutwings]

That is the second choice for a place I would put it. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Mazzy]

ROFLMAO!!!!!!

[Hephaistion]

Thanks Rockstar!! Glad you liked it /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif Hopefull I will not have to write another story like it! /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

I miss you too Alice my little viener schnitzel /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif I am bringing you back a nice present /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Now Heidi, MAZ, Slugger, Wingsy - you guys behave you hear? I'll be back next week! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[B.G.M. heidi]

Okay, okay, enough about Jair. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

Mostly, I want to know what Wingsy's first choice is for storage of her beaver.

[doubletake]

Jair...exactly how long has it been since you have last seen Alice?

[CAH]

ETBW - prime rib, medium rare with twice baked potatoes...you are KILLING ME. Stop, please....
My salad with diet dressing was quite yummy, thank you. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

Jair, glad I could make you laugh...it sounded like you needed a good one.

Geological digs...no thanks. The only dig I have been on recently is the one this past weekend when I was looking for my lost car keys in the manure pile.

[This message was edited by CAH on Apr. 10, 2001 at 08:23 PM.]

[brilyntrip]

BUT I have to admit I'm RONFLMAOAPIMP ....NO WAY EYEBALLS ARE NOT ON MY DIET EITHER!!!

[B.G.M. heidi]

brilyntrip, baby, who's your PIMP? I can dance to ROFLMAO, but your PIMP variation intrigues me. Pray share - what's it mean? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

I think this sinus headache (that I've had all day) just blew out my ears!!!


Ahhhh, I feel much better thank you.

ROTFLMAO

Speaking of Alice, exactly when was the last time you called her Jair??? She may have moved south(I doubt the post was from her, the delicate thing might break a nail). She really likes the fresh new grass coming in....

[Sweet Pea]

Heidi - the only thing I can think of is "Pee-ing in my Pants!" /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Kahuna]

You are correct!

PIMP=Peeing In My Pants

(of course it means something else, but that's another story!)
/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[Robby Johnson]

ETBW, did you drink the Bordeaux? Please say you didn't. I just got here!

I have to say that Arkansas isn't really what I consider the midwest. (That would be Chicago, Ohio, Indy, etc. to me.) Arkansas is just sort of "north of Texas, west of Mississippi River, therefore making it not really "The South" ... IOW, a veritable Square State. We (all of us) are much more "east of the river" types.

Save our stall! We'd love to come there! (Must find J-O-B first. Robert says I have to work. Curses!)

Robby

[Robby Johnson]

Has likely not heard the new Destiny's Child, but here are some lyrics, my brother, that I'll leave to inspire you ...

"I'm a survivor, I'm not going to give up
I'm going to work harder, I'm going to be stronger
I'm a survivor, I'm going to make it,
I will survive
Keep on surviving!"

(I think that's pretty much how it goes.)

And here is Alice and Bambi's horsey version ...

"Now that I've got you out of my life
I'm so much better
Thought I couldn't trot without you
But I'm trotting
Thought I couldn't jump without you
Spreadin' oxers
Thought I couldn't snort without you
I neigh harder
Thought I would be lame without you
But I'm sounder
Thought Puffin would feed me too much grain
Didn't founder

We've got admirers, we're going to make it, we're going to survive, as long as there are COTH's admirers!"

Seriously, get your butt home!

Robby and Willow

[Dee]

Robby, I was just listening to that in my truck! Your lyrics are much better!! I'm going to print this whole thread--please pass the Depends, I'm dying here! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
And Jair, please consider a book deal on this, or at least an article in People! Here's lookin' at ya! Ewww, that was bad....anyway, have a safe trip back to the land of the free!

I am appalled by this discussion. I am Bolivian and my Husband is from Lima, Peru. This is extremely offensive since it is obviosuly some made up story. If these people had ever been to Bolivia they would not have perpetrated such a proposterous and racist lie like this. I was shown this by a friend who rides and was in disbelief, that such callous statements and insulting scenarios would be written by supposedly enlightened people. Having been raised in Santa Cruz I have never eaten any eyes of any kind and never have heard of any such things. I also would like to know what "Guerilla's" these were and who thery were affiliated with? Finally I would like to know what "research company" is conducting such geological research. With the OAS, IMF, and World Bank it would be intersting to know what Canadian Company is conducting this? I am insulted and disgusted because as a Latin person I have had to face many prejudices even in "international" environments and to see my people portrayed as such barbarians without modern comforts and such chaotic social and governmental structure is degrading and even more so when told in such a false and "made up" manner.


Thank You
Maria Ayala
Great Falls, Virginia

[Puffin]

Maria, with all due respect, please do not take offense to this - if you knew my brother you would know him to be one of the fairest of individuals.

As for the guerillas, I assure you it was entirely true - as to who they were, or who they represent I don't think even Jair knows, as he said, he does not speak Spanish. Maybe the individuals blocking the road had some entirely different purpose to what he thought, but they did have guns. So to a Canadian like my brother and myself - that in itself is a big deal.

I have no doubt that my brother has embellished his story consideriably, and those who know him are aware of his sense of humour. But be assured that the events behind his story are based on fact. My brother is a geologist who is working for a big mine helping them out on their drilling program as well as some surveying, which is why he was where he was.

Jair is thoroughly enjoying his time in South America and one of things he was remarked on the most in private emails to myself is how much he likes the people he is working with, and how much he has enjoyed learning about another culture.

How you choose to read his story is up to you. But don't bash him for giving his opinion. Jair is not one to want to or try to offend anyone. If he were able to defend himself here, we would say the same. But as he isn't, I will do it for him.

[This message was edited by Puffin on Apr. 11, 2001 at 01:12 PM.]

[Everythingbutwings]

I concur.

[Maria]

Jair, what an exciting adventure you have had. WOW.

The homecoming will be well worth the wait. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Louise]

Maria Ayala,

I am very sorry that you were offended by any of this. We on this bb have known and respected Jair for some time now. I concur with Puffin, this story was not meant with any harm in mind. I also don't think that it was taken that way by any of us.

I expect that Jair is having the adventure of his life in Bolivia and that he is eager to share his experiences with his friends. He would be the first one to be absolutely horrified to learn that he had hurt anyone's feelings. That last statement I would take to the bank!

A bb environment is a funny thing. It is very hard to see the true emotions and feelings of the people writing on them. We miss the facial expressions and the gestures that accompany a story. It is sometimes best not to read too much into what people write.

Once again, I am sorry if you were offended and do hope that you continue to read this bb and get to know the great people who inhabit it.

[Jeb]

From the US State Department's advisory on travel safety, dated October 2000:

"SAFETY AND SECURITY: Violence and civil unrest, primarily associated with anti-narcotics activities in the Chapare region between Santa Cruz and Cochabamba, and the Yungas region northeast of La Paz, periodically create a potential risk for travelers to those regions. Violent confrontations between area residents and government authorities over coca eradication occasionally result in the use of tear gas and stronger force by government authorities to quell disturbances. U.S. citizen visitors to the Chapare or Yungas regions are encouraged to check with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy prior to travel."

"In April and again in September 2000, civil unrest became more generalized, spreading to regions throughout the country, both in urban and rural areas. Protestors blocked roads with stones, trees, and other objects, and reacted violently when travelers attempted to pass through or go around roadblocks. U.S. citizens should avoid roadblocks and demonstrations at all times. U.S. citizens considering a visit to Bolivia should keep apprised of current conditions and monitor local news sources before considering overland travel within the country."

[This message was edited by Jeb on Apr. 11, 2001 at 02:15 PM.]

[Robby Johnson]

is obviously an obnoxious alter by one of the obnoxious alter users that frequent this place. Let it slide, Puffin.

Robby

[Dukes of Hazard]

I doubt this story as well. Sorry but I think that this is made up by the alters or whatever. I have noticed that Robby, Jeb, Jair and Puffin only post together? Where are any authentic photos of any of these supposed amazing events or gift horses or exciting activities.

I think it is obviously made up and agree with the woman who was insulted, and Jeb/Jair/Robby/Puffin that report is easily accessed from the State Department as are similar reports for travelers to North America!! On the Crime rates here!

[Robby Johnson]

You're welcome to glimpse into my life by visiting:

http://home.att.net/~robbyjohnson

I'm a real life person - alter ego free.

Robby

[Mazzy]

I am sorry you were offended Maria Ayala but please understand that we were all able to read between the lines of Jair's travel tales.

Jair is certainly one of the LAST individuals on the face of this planet who would intentially denigrate a country or race of people. He is also a painfully honest person and therefore while some exaggerations may exist for humour's sake, there ARE elements of truth in his story.

I understand how easy it is to take offense at the written word considering the absence of voice inflection and expression. However, please be careful to consider this when wording a response yourself. I myself, could easily be offended at the "tone" taken towards the "concept that a CANADIAN Company COULD be doing RESEARCH".

Anyway, 'nough said. I think the point is clear.


Caroline Sykes
New York, NY

P.S. Ditto Puffin!! Nicely done Jeb.

[Jeb]

You don't even wanna start nothin with the Jeb/Jair/RJ/Puffin posse, which one-half of us are bonafide Alabama Rednecks. Don't even go there, sister woman - it wouldn't be pretty.

Think what you may regarding the authenticity of Jair's trip. I'm sure he could really care less that you think he's sitting in his office, a la Walter Mitty, concocting stories of intrigue and adventure in an effort to amaze and entertain his friends.

I have received several emails from him while he is on assignment and think I can testify to the veracity of his journeys. (Mainly, the fact that he WHINES ad nauseum about wanting to go home and how sunburned he is!)

As for the "posting in packs syndrome" you have diagnosed us with, I think you'll find that many other BB users like to read and contribute to the threads of their "friends" - it's quite common, actually. Not necessarily a sign of conspiracy theories designed to rock your little world.

Or - if you like - in short: Whatever.

[Dukes of Hazard]

Nice Website.So one of you is real! Sorry If I have an opinion but I don't buy any of the rest of the people.

Cute horse Robby and adorable dogs.

[Jeb]

JumperRider is making me have an existential crisis. I hate when that happens.

[SoEasy]

Puffin is real

I have my doubts about a first time poster finding just this thread to be offended over.

Please keep it civil folks.

[Hollyhocks]

Where are YOUR pictures?

[DMK]

Well, you know, I could have testified that Jeb was a real live person, but my horses chose to get pretty darn injured the day we were supposed to meet for lunch, so I guess we will never know for sure...

But he does have a cell phone number /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Hollyhocks]

How did your horse get injured the day
you were meeting "Jeb"?

Sounds like a pretty big coincidence to
me!

(Hope your horse is OK.) /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Jeb]

For helping to restore my fragile identity! Next trip to Atlanta - we are on! Perhaps Mia Spia or whatever it's called?

Other near sightings: DQWannabe used to ride at my barn. Visits and sees my horse there. DQWannabe goes to local show, sees my horse there too - but never ME! (I'm not helping my case much, am I?)

It's sorta like The Talented Mr. Ripley, only not in Italy. And I'm definitely not Matt Damon. And it's not the 1950s. And I'm not a forger or murderer.

OK, so it's not like that at all.

[Dukes of Hazard]

Jeb...hmm that is way too redneck to be a real name? No way!

[DMK]

Oh Hollyhocks, you don't really want to know about those injuries, but in short, one is (expensively) just fine, and the other one is most definitely not fine /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif But that is another story and this thread is way too much fun to dwell on that incident!

BUUUUUUT, I did send a little of my lameness karma home with Jeb, who experienced a flat tire AND an abscess on his horse, right Jeb?

[Dukes of Hazard]

DMK, do you know a horse called "Access Greystone?"

[Hollyhocks]

You may say you're not a forger
or murderer, but do you have any
pictures to prove it? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[DMK]

nope, but didn't I see his obit in the chronicle? Or am I confused?

Hollyhocks - I bet he doesn't, but as they say, that is proving a negative... now maybe you should ask the police if they have pics validating the positive?

[a/o]

JumperRider, I JUST saw that horse at Pin Oak in TX. Unless there are two horses with the same name...Anyway, it showed with one of Peter Pletcher's people in the High Jr/AO Classic. Could it be the same horse?

[Mazzy]

Who knew Robby was so cute. So who to have the bigger crush on...Jair or Robby...Alice or Willow. Alice for Archie and Willow for Ziggy and I'll take both Jair and Robby and think myself very lucky. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Hey JumperRider - Play nice for goodness sake, what's your issue? /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

[Jeb]

That was a pretty bad time, DMK. But you did have the worst of it. (Shudder to think!) Glad that's all in the past for you.

JumperRider: Yeah, I'm a big ole tractor-pull-watchin, ice-tea-swillin, Brooks & Dunn-listen, tobacco-chewin, pick-up drivin Red Neck. My manufactured home has hurricane ties on too, by the way. This is why I am competing in dressage.

[Puffin]

OH look! I've posted after Jeb again /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif We must be the same person.

This thread has taken the most ridculous turn I can imagine. My brother is quite real, I promise. Especially when he tried to iron my favourite barbie's dress.... when she was still in it /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif The poor girl had some sad deforimities for the rest of her life.

[Everythingbutwings]

And my pics are strewn all over this board. There is enough of me without an alter.

Maybe someone did point out this topic to Maria Ayala and she, not being familiar with this board as well as Jair, took offense for her nation. She has had several people very kindly and politely explain to her what this is about. Unfortunately, Bolivia does have a reputation for not being as safe a place to visit as other countries but Jair is on a business trip, not a vacation.

I would take a vacation to Canada and I bet I wouldn't have my way blocked by armed men. Such an experience would certianly be one to write about.

JumperRider, you are so far off base as to think that Jeb/Jair/Robby/Puffin are alters or a group. They are a good part of the more "normal" posters on this board.

Go here to see me and my horses. http://www.clutter.com/maddie after the experiences that I have had in the past few years, I find this board, particularly this forum, to be a great way to unwind amongst friends.

[Moesha]

Alf, it is possible a flea bitten grey? was that the horse? I remember someone showing a horse with that name in Gulfport this year in the High JR/AOs maybe they are from Texas?

Jeb..WOW I must be psychic that is just how I pictured you. I guess the Monty resemblence was a lie....Oh I am heartbroken. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[DMK]

I'm getting there, Jeb... Thanks to some really nice (and real!) fellow BBers...

Mia Spia it is (although we moved our office - I'm back ITP - ick - near the Vinings, but I can make the trek for Mia Spia!)

[DMK]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> I would take a vacation to Canada and I bet I wouldn't have my way blocked by armed men. Such an experience would certianly be one to write about <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I dunno, ETBW - I guess it would kind of depend on whether you were trying to "liberate" the oh so Lovely Alice on your vacation, eh? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Hollyhocks]

How about a picture of Jeb
holding today's NY Times with no
prison guards or vertical
stripes in sight? Maybe standing
in front of his house trailer
with the plastic flowers and the
Fairlane up on blocks?

(No offense, Jeb.) /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Everythingbutwings]

A more likely scenario would be irate women trying to prevent me from Alice napping! I would invite them on a road trip with me, provide a feast and delight them with blender drinks and some of Kennett Square and Kryswyn's tales.

Armed men I would smack upside the noggin with a frozen beaver tail /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Blinky]

Robby-nice websight

Maria-I agree-she has to be an alter. Or else she needs to get over it.

[Robby Johnson]

That was what made me think it was an alter - that they registered today and got offended today. And to whomever used the alter in the first place ... shame on you. This is why I hate alter egos and often have left bb's because of them. Get a life, I say!

Jeb is a real person. And he and I do represent the 1/2 of the ass-whoopin' Alabama redneck posse.

Interesting, OT story ... this past weekend I covered a horse trials in Louisiana for the Chronicle (I'm an area correspondent). Jeb had told me to be on the lookout for some of his barnmates who were going to be competing there.

Sure enough, I ran into them on Sunday, when I interviewed the JYOP winner who rides at Jeb's barn and she had a BUNCH of great things to say about Jeb and his horse.

So, yes, he is real. As is Jair, as is Puffin, as am I.

Robby

[Duffy3]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>JumperRider, you are so far off base as to think that Jeb/Jair/Robby/Puffin are alters or a group. They are a good part of the more "normal" posters on this board. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

ETBW, PLEASE Define Normalcy. Because I am devastatingly offended. . .

If it weren't for my pure, sheer, devoted, undying love of Jair, I might even make a scene...

[Spunky]

Jari,

I hope you have a safe trip home!! Hugs & carrots to Alice from me /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

XXOO, Spunky

[Everythingbutwings]

I quite recall that you are gone. Kaput, resigned, "POOF"

Nananananananana!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

Normal is as normal does, all in the "eye of the beholder" Now get back to reform school, dinner is waiting /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[brilyntrip]

MERRY MERRY of course it stands for peeing in my pants!!!!!

[Kellybird]

Poor Jair....not to make light of a horrid situation, but I have to make a chessy joke:

If you think your day was bad, just think how the poor sheep must feel! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Nobody loves me, everybody hates me, guess I'll go eat sheep's eyes /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[a/o]

Moesha, yes! This horse is a fleabitten gray. Rides in a nose fuzzy (didn't notice if it was over a hackamore or just a regular noseband). I wish I could remember the girl's name...she ran right into me in the warm-up area, LOL. I wonder if she usually rides with Peter, because I'm pretty sure he didn't go anywhere else but Indio.

Sounds like the same horse, though!

[Duffy3]

ETBW; you know that they don't feed me when I misbehave..
(no one told me resignation meant i couldn't play any more...:( Alan? Alan?? Where for art though? Know you of a good Lawyer??)

[Kahuna]

Hopefully the sheep didn't have hoof & eye disease!

Apparently, sheep's eyes are used as a hangover cure in Mongolia:

"On your travels, after an enjoyable night out, treat yourself to the delights of hangover cures from around the world.

� Puerto Ricans swear by rubbing a lemon under your drinking arm.
� The French drink thick, hot onion soup the morning after.
� Enjoy a pickled sheep's eye in tomato juice in Outer Mongolia.
� The Norwegians will give you a heavy glass of cream to settle your stomach.
� Germans recommend downing sour herring with a beer chaser.
� Heavily-salted cucumber juice or black bread soaked in water are Russian secret cures.
� Magic your hangover away with a little voodoo in Haiti - stick 13 black-headed pins in the cork of the bottle that gave you the hangover."

I don't know about you, but I think I'll stick with McDonald's fries!


/infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[Astraled]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> Germans recommend downing sour herring with a beer chaser. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I knew there was a reason I moved back to the States /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif . Fishie=Ewwww

_________________________
Stall confinement: Week Four of Twelve

[Portia]

Robby and I will be meeting at Rolex, so I will then be able to verify his existence. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Also, remember back with the Seattle earthquake hit, Jair was the first with the story on these boards - even beat CNN. So I take that as pretty good proof that he is real and lives in the Pacific Northwest. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

As for being on geological research in Bolivia -- if you have a hard time believing that, then you don't know anything about the oil and gas and mining businesses. I have some highly educated geologist friends who work for the major energy companies who have been dropped into the middle of jungles in South America, deserts in the Mid-East, and mountains in Kazakhstan by helicopter, then get picked up a few weeks later, hopefully still in one piece. Field geology is rough work.

As for the guerillas and dangers, sorry if this is insulting, but it is a very real danger in South America. A client I work with regularly lives in El Salvador managing the company's in country operations. He lives in a gated and guarded compound and must be accompanied by body guards where ever he goes, as are most of the other Americans there and in other places in South America. Americans are kidnapping targets, and if they don't take precautions, they're just stupid. Sorry if South Americans find that insulting, but it is reality.

[867-5309]

Good call, Portia, mentioning the Earthquake. Jair covered that with terrifying detail, as he did this "day in the life!" -- in S. America. Jair lives!

Hope your days are going more smoothly.... Dinero di monopolia - that was the punchline for me

/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Flash44]

When I was in Cancun last month, I awoke from a little nap on a public beach to see 4 military uniformed men carrying machine guns stroll down the beach. My friend told me it was "just the coast guard," and it is quite normal to see military men with machine guns walking around.

[Baroni]

Same thing happened to me in Jamaica - armed guards on the beach. Robbie - great website - love your JRTs!

[Robby Johnson]

Thanks Baroni! I can't wait for Jair to get back!

Robby

[Stars]

Was this a giant skinny horse with a short rider?
I think I know who this is...

[Erin]

"Maria Ayala" is an alter.

[This message was edited by Erin on Apr. 17, 2001 at 02:22 PM.]

[Robby Johnson]

Erin:

Is there any way to prevent people from registering with alters? I guess with all of the hotmail and yahoo email options it would be difficult. I wish people didn't use them - it's so high school, IYAM.

I have been reading long enough to spot an AE, so I usually chuckle about it and go along with it or ignore it, but those who don't understand that this is a person with (usually) good intentions can really get their feelings hurt, as Puffin did, and that, to me, is cruel.

So my plea is that if you're going to use an AE, always use it in good taste. And if you're using them to "stir the pot" on the BB, then you're obviously not busy enough at work or home. I suggest organizing your filing system or scrubbing the grout in your tile as good forms of diversion.

Robby

[Everythingbutwings]

Too much unhappiness in the world already. Why bring it here.

Have a great Easter, everyone. Does one say "Happy Passover"? I get to cook both dinners this week /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Black Market Radio]

Oh thank you Moesha, now I am going to have to drive down to Santa Cruz Ca this weekend because you made me miss it, not that it has even been a month since I have been there, but it is so awesome!

Queen Marine

[This message was edited by devildog20 on Apr. 16, 2001 at 03:30 PM.]

[creseida]

And here I thought my chosen degree program (Geol major w/ minors in geog & archaeology) was going to lead me into a boring government job locked in a lab somewhere..

Last week, on a Goelogy Field Trip, I visited a river of sulfuric acid; now I read about Jair's geologic adventures... I thought adventures such as his were reserved for Archaeologists (hence the chosen minor, to liven things up a bit) where people take offense at grave robbings, looking for the dawn of humanity in Ethiopea, etc.

Jair~what company do you work for and where does a college senior with a high GPA in Geology sign up?????Do they have any branches in the vicinity of the VAClique?????

[Portia]

Creseida, the major homebases for geologists in North America are: Houston, Dallas, Denver, and Calgary. You can find something outside of these areas, but the best employment opportunities are with the energy and mining companies, and the energy companies are mostly based in the producing regions. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Robby Johnson]

They have Prada there. And Hermes. And Gucci. And lots of Neiman Marcuses.

Robby

[Hephaistion]

Those are good considerations Robby /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Portia is right Cresida, those cities are the biggest hubs for geology. I am from Calgary, so I do recommend that place, besides, its only 1/2 -1 hour to Spruce Meadows dpending on where you're living.

I work for a Geotechnical and Mining engineering consulting firm whose main office is in Calgary. I recommend that you also target consultants in your job search as well as just actual mining companies. From what I see, the mining industry is finally taking an upswing, so you will have a decent chance at finding a job. But don't be surprised if its just contract work, which is fairly standard.

[Sea Urchin]

Maria is an ALTER???? That's awful! She seemed so sweet and sincere.

[Portia]

Now Robby, we have Prada and Gucci and Hermes and Tiffany, and lots of Needless Markup stores here in Houston too. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

I can't afford to shop at any of them, but we have them. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Maria]

Please Please Please Please Please do not confuse Maria with Maria Ayala!!!!!

I am NOT Maria Ayala!!!!

They are two (2) different people.

Maria is NOT an alter

Maria Ayala may be an alter. I couldn't tell you.

Ohhhhhh, I have been waiting for this.

I admire and respect Jair!!!!

Oh, Lordy, what do I need to do?

Nevermind, I just went through and read some of the other stuff and figured out what happened.

[This message was edited by Maria on Apr. 17, 2001 at 09:52 AM.]

[Hephaistion]

My dear Maria! Never fear that for one instance any of us thought it was you!

Don't worry, I was more than aware that you were a regular person on the BB /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Thank you for your kind words!

[Maria]

Whewwwwww!!!

Thanks Jair.

Now then as far as solving the above mentioned problem..... it's a hard hard thing to do. Many have tried and HA HA HA HA none have succeded. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Smart Alec]

nice website! Willow is so cute! Is that really her as the supermodel? What magazine is it? I was looking at those custom saddle pads...do they come in custon sizes? Thanks! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Canter]

Well, I've almost caught up to you at last!!! I take off on a freelance job and look at you!! So far away. And look at all the stuff going on here. All the alters are flying up to heaven for pete's sake. Safe trip - when are you back or are you back? This BB is making me lose my mind - so many threads to read yikes.

Robby - great website - very cool!! I'm jealous of your spring (but not your JRT's LOLOL) Love them!.

[Hephaistion]

Howdy Canter!

Long time no read /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Yeppers! I am back safe and sound, and starting to feel like I never left.

I know exactly how you feel - I tried to catch up on the BB stuff, but just gave up and started with whatever was on the first page. Dang it though, I hate it when I know I've missed out on something! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Canter]

Thank goodness Jairbear. A rational voice in this sea of BB madness. Imagine. You of all people insulting Bolivians everywhere. The things we have missed... /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif Did you have Alice hidden away in a mine while you were gone? I think I read a Slugger report about rocks and carrots somewhere around here today??

I have to tell you, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your Bolivian nightmare. Thanks!!