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Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 8347
Location: Watch out for In Your Ear
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 12:00 pm
Post subject: An Intellectual Mock . . . You're Welcome
Free Agency
Erin Henderson
*3 years-$10 million* ($3m Signing Bonus/Base Salary Y1-$2m, Y2-$2m, Y3-$3m)
Right now it seems most likely that Rob Ryan will be the DC, but its also unlikely that we would switch to a 3-4 defensive front. What I think changes is the mentality. This year we were a bend, dont break/bait the QB into turnovers, whereas under Ryan we would be more attacking, forcing turnovers from pressure, not so much tricking the QB. I hope you all saw Henderson against us, he didnt rack up the numbers, but he was constantly applying pressure. I think he would be a perfect fit as the SAM backer in a attacking defense that is flying around the field. He is a bit undersized, but he is still a big guy. He just isnt as thick as your guys like Greenway, but he is still good in run support as he is very good with leverage and getting better at shedding, while also being able to turn the edge as a rusher from the LB spot. Everyone missed out on him last year, and its likely this year teams still dont appreciate him so we can give him a modest deal, and steal us a potential ascending star, which is the philosophy that Snead has put out there for his Free Agent focus. Get the guys as they are breaking out or right before.
Jared Cook
South Carolina
Tight End
*3 years-$17 million* ($7.5m Signing Bonus/Base Salary Y1-$1.5m, Y2-$2.5m, Y3-$5.5m)
He was completely frustrated with the way he was being used in the Tennessee offense, and why wouldnt he be. We can bring him in a bit cheaper than he should be due to that fact that he doesnt have the stats to backup the talent, but its still a pretty good deal for him. I think we revamp the style of this offense, still the same scheme & playbook, but when you cut ties with your top Weapon (not sure Danny is back) and replace him with a completely different weapon, you need to adapt. Cook actually becomes the key to the offense, the focal point of the passing attack, much like Gates was in SD, Gonzo was in KC and still is in ATL and how Gronk & Graham make their Offenses what they are. They say they are going to loosen the reins on Sam, let him start to run the show, and his favorite type of target would be his #1 option. Having Kendrics be the #2/dual threat TE, makes him a matchup problem, and these two take away the focus on the slot man, giving us more 2 TE sets and less 3 WR sets.
Will Svitek
Offensive Tackle
*1 year-$2.25 million* (1.5m Signing Bonus/Base Salary-$750k)
This guy was all the rave in Atlanta to start the season, he was going to save them from another season of Sam Baker. Well he gets his Hockey Injury, Baker has a pretty decent year, and all the sudden he is a forgotten man. But there will be one man who wont forget Svitek, that is our own Paul Boudreau. Coach Bou is one of the major factors in the rise of Svitek, he molded him into the potential tackle that so many were excited about. He is big, he is long, and he has power up and down. Once he locks on he can steer his man anywhere he wants. He isnt perfect by any stretch, but he doesnt get beat up by D Lineman. I dont know if he would be the solution to our RT, but I think he is as good of an option as any right now. Get him coming off this injury, with something to prove, and this bottled up talent, we might get us a cheap gem to make a dominant OL.
TRADE: Titans send Rams WR Kenny Britt for Future Conditional Pick*
*2014 5th round pick that can become a 4th round pick if Britt is active for 14 games, or a 3rd if the Rams extend Britt in season
Kenny Britt
Rutgers Wideout
Yes, he is in the news again, but he didnt really do anything. And even if he did, so what? He is a damn good player. Im more worried about his health at this point. He has done some stupid things, but he really hasnt done anything that bad at this point. When he is healthy he is a dangerous weapon on the field. I think Fisher believes he know how to reign him in, and Tennessee just might be done with him as they try to transition to Jake locker with Wright, Washington, and another solid guy in Damian Williams. If they are on their last straw with Britt it should get a lot to pry him away, and actually I would think it doesnt even cost us a pick this season. We give the titans a condition pick for next season, and no matter what they get a 5th for their problem child and if he does play almost all the games (insurance against legal & health questions) or if we extend his contract prior to Free Agency they get it bumped up.
NFL Draft
Chance Warmack
Some people are starting to get worried about Chance even making it to #16, and while it is a possibility, its not as dire of a situation as some would like you to believe. Interior Lineman just do not go Top 10, Im not saying its right, but for many reasons they just dont get picked that early, at least not on purpose. The only situation I see it happening is if Geno Smith is the only WB that goes Top 10, and that is something I just dont see happening (I have 3 QBs in my Top 10). There is so much Defensive Line talent, and still plenty of OTs that could be those picks. Warmack is a Top 5 talent to me, and would frame our entire offensive identity. He is a massive man, with dominating power, a devastating punch and impressive athleticism for that size. An offensive line of Saffold-Warmack-Wells-Dahl-Svitek is much more impressive than anything we threw out there this season and will chance the entire dynamic of our offense.
TRADE: Texans send the Rams #27, 3rd round & 7th round picks for #22
I dont project trades unless I see a situation where we could take advantage of one. Many will just have a Trade back for an extra 2nd in their mock, possibly even a random team, but I like to have logic behind mine. In this scenario I see the Texans making a move to secure that they get Kevin Minter to help stabilize their defensive front. I used to think they would just sit back and take the best NT available, but Earl Mitchell has done better and they dont need a Top guy anymore. But they do need ILBs. Loosing Cushing was huge, and they had no one to back him up. They arent even really sure how he will be coming back this year from the Torn ACL. But regardless they need another ILB and to be sure they go get the last very good one out there. How this comes about; the Steelers still go with Manti as their ILB as he drops to them, and right before us Alec Ogletree gets snatched by the Bengals. With the Vikings right behind us potentially losing both Henderson & Brinkley they need some LBs, the Colts like their guys but are still potential spots for a LB, and the Packers could be looking for a new ILB with both Bishop & Hawk not being as reliable to come back. There is a lot of incentive for the Texans to jump into 22, and the most important part, they have the Ammo. Almost the same trade happened last year with NE swapping a 3rd with CIN. The Texans are likely to have a 3rd round Comp pick (only 6 spots behind the one they trade) and multiple 6th round Comps so they sweeten the deal with an extra 7th. They cant trade those Comp picks so they make the most out of them by trading their others.
Sharrif Floyd
Defensive Tackle
Ive been saying for a long time now, we need and will find a 3rd DT. A guy who will play a ton of snaps as we already rotate 4 of them (2 not that good) plus William Hayes and they are all getting good playing time. If we combine most of those other 2 DTs snaps you have plenty for a 3rd guy to see a lot of time and make a big impact. Floyd is a guy who I really love. He is a high character guy (even though he took money in College, you have to know the story) with a high, high motor who can really anchor against the run and beat up double teams. But much like Brockers last year, most dont see him as a pass rusher, well I would beg to differ. I dont see a good pass rusher Yet, he has the tools to be one, and most are looking at that aspect of his games a 5-tech more off the edge. When inside, his fluid COD skills for a man his size leads me to believe he can be a good pass rusher when a coach cleans up his technique, gets him to play more disciplined, and use his hands while stop wasting motion, he could be a damn good interior rusher.
Tony Jefferson
Im on this train and riding it till the wheels fall off (so till he is actually drafted). Everything I watch on Jefferson impresses me, and its probably magnified tenfold by having to watch the worst display a safety has ever put on this season. But looking at our defense this year, I think every problem we have stems from Craig Dahl. The CBs had to play further off (maybe its only 5-7 yard cushions instead of 10-12) Quintin Mikell can come up more in run support, and Laurinaitis doesnt have to cover as many TEs and can be closer to the LOS, not to mention we dont get destroyed on the deep ball. Other than his ability to flip and run with a WR Jefferson is a Corner playing Safety, and this season he has improved in a few very important areas. One is being able to come down and cover a TE man-to-man, not be out-physicaled and stick with them over the middle as well as down the seam. What has helped with that is bulking up a bit, he isnt huge but has thickened up and gotten stronger, which also helps him while being able to stand up in run support. His instincts havent always been the best off the snap, but he is getting better at reading the QB and diagnosing the play which makes up for it. He has also developed a knack for tracking Backs out of the backfield and making plays on them. He is the solution to all our problems, making this defense what we thought it should be last year.
Ace Sanders
South Carolina
Heres another new wrinkle in my mock. Originally I didnt think we would ever have the chance to get a weapon like Ace, but luckily for some team (hopefully us) he changed his mind last minute and declared. I said earlier in this mock, this years offense would be different. The biggest change being that the focus would shift from the Slot position being the main player over the middle, to the TE taking over that spot and adding the ability to go deep down the seam. Im not exactly sure how Ace would be as a slot man, he isnt the best route runner but he did line up in the slot a lot this year. Aces short area quickness and explosion when he goes makes Givens look slow. The biggest thing that Sanders will bring to the squad is a real weapon in the return game. His explosion and vision on returns make him a threat to take it to the house every time, but not only that he should give us better than average starting field position more times than not.
Datone Jones
Defensive Lineman
Its going to be hard to hang onto William Hayes. Prior to this season, Fisher knew how good he was and how misused he was in Tennessee, but now everyone does. He was a major factor in the pressure we were able to create this season. We are going to have to replace that production once someone snags him as a starter like he should be. Floyd and Henerson start to help, but we still need a giy who can both backup Chris Long as well as provide depth on the interior. Jones is a pretty good candidate for that role in our defense. He has moved up and down the Bruins Defensive Line throughout his career, but has been extremely versatile this year. Datone has a lot of the same skills as Hayes; He uses his quickness for an interior rusher combined with leverage to catch his man off balance and overwhelm them to disrupt in the backfield. If he is used strictly at one spot or the other he will likely struggle, but if he is put in the right spot, in the right situations he should thrive.
Menelik Watson
Offensive Tackle
While we signed a guy like Svitek, its only on a one year prove it deal. Next year we will likely need at least one new OT, and grabbing a high upside guy like Watson is a great option. He will be an older rookie (not Weeden old), but he still has a ton of upside. Just getting into football only a few years ago, he is a freak athlete with a monstrous frame. He has long arms with quick feet and what I like the most, his nasty punch that he just punishes defenders with. The best way to describe him is exactly what his background is; He is a mountain of Raw potential with a lineman's build, a basketball player's feet and a boxer's hands. His nasty demeanor on the field helps him dominate opponents once he gets locked on. He still needs a lot of refinement, but if Boudreau can get his hands on him, he could be the dominating RT we need to continue the power mentality that Warmack brings on the other side.
Brandon McGee
Miami (FL)
The back half of this draft was clearly influenced by the East/West game, I have been looking at a lot of these guys in the past month, and I really started to like a lot of them. Now they are getting some pub and I had to bump them up to ensure they are gotten in a likely slot. McGee has all the raw talent, something that is very prevalent in this draft. I believe that this coaching staff can actually develop talent, which is why we can go more raw ability than that needs work. McGee is surely one of those guys as his college career left much to be desired. He seemed to rely on mostly on his pure athleticism, trying to out-show opponents, not out-play them. He has good feet and fluid footwork, and seems to be a smart player. But he plays pretty reserved, not wanting to get beat, which may be the reason he doesnt attack the ball very well. While he has good natural skills for a Corner, his technique is sloppy and needs to learn the game more. We need to replace Bradley Fletcher, and a guy who still carries that Miami Swagger is an addition to a Secondary already with an edge that is a great fit.
Cooper Taylor
I remember Taylor bursting onto the scene as a Freshman at GT, and didnt know what happened to him after that. When looking through prospects this year and finding him, I was pleasantly surprised to see he was still the same type of prospect, just had to do it at a small school. He is one of those rare big, long, and athletic strong safeties. He is a lot like Kam Chancellor, stiff but loves to deliver the big hit and has a real nose for the football. But even as he is stiff, he is still fast, and would fit best into a Zone based safety scheme. When he can defend infront of him he is a playmaker, when he has to be up on the LOS all the time forcing him to turn and run with TEs he gets in trouble. Thus far Im assuming we are still in a similar type of system as last year, and he would be a great developmental guy to fit next to our new FS in Tony Jefferson.
D.C. Jefferson
Tight End
Have you guys watched any Rutgers football this year? You would have noticed one thing, they are TALL, and somehow Jefferson Dwarfs all of those other guys at a towering 66. He is still extremely raw, really just being an athlete without a position after he had to switch from QB. For whatever reason Rutgers refused to use him as a weapon in the offense, but this week at the Shrine practices he has shown good hands (soft/full extension)and is turning into a decent route runner, combine that with his great measurables and athleticism and this is a guy we should take a chance on. For the longest time I wanted us to grab Michael Williams, but Im starting to think he should kill workouts and possibly push himself out of our range in the 5th and I dont want to take a Blocking TE in the 4th. Well I see Jefferson as a poor mans Williams at this point, with much more upside. When they wouldnt use him as a Weapon at Rutgers DC didnt just sit around, he turned himself into a rather impressive inline blocker, he has developed pretty good technique in both run and pass blocking. DC stepping up his blocking game was a major factor in helping Jawan Jamison go off this year. Plus if you get that guy into an NFL type S&C program (like Williams has had at Bama) and he could become a very good blocker as well as a Receiving threat.
Tommy Bohanon
Wake Forest
Ive been doing a deep dive on Fullbacks this season, I think we really need on, and a good one. If we want to commit to this Run game, especially if the 2 lead rushers will be guys like Pead & Richardson we need a true lead blocker. I think Bohannon can be that guy. Many are into the Hybrid Fullback/H-back these days, and while Bo can do a lot of those things he will also run over a truck for you. He will be at the Senior Bowl so you all can get a good look at him coming up, be he is a guy who I have locked onto as the next old school FB that will be a difference maker in the league. He is athletic and quick like a lot of the hybrid guys, but he is also a tank that can power through guys (watch the YouTube vids of him Benching 550, squatting 700, and a 450 hang-clean). When you see him blocking, it looks awkward, but because he hasnt really been taught how to explode through opponents and drive them. He gets to the spot and uses he sheer strength to lock on and just steer defenders out of the hole. Ive watched him take on LEs and not give any ground. He has also perfected that slip out of the Backfield in the Redzone for a TD. He could be the next John Kuhn type, because every team should have a FB their stadium can cheer for with one syllable; Theyre not booing Demarco, theyre cheering Bo
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Joined: 16 Feb 2011
Posts: 255
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 1:11 pm
Post subject:
I'm a really big fan of this mock. It covers everything.
Wishlist for 2013: WR, FS, OL, OLB
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Joined: 02 Oct 2007
Posts: 6105
Location: Southern California
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 1:27 pm
Post subject:
Not a fan of the Floyd pick, I do agree a rotational DT is needed but Im just not very high on Floyd as a 1st round prospect. Also not a fan on the Herderson signing.
Love the trade for Britt. Love the Warmack and Watson (Saddleback JC) picks. I feel Im not educated enough to make sound judgements on most of the other picks.
I am mixed on Jefferson at this point to be honest after him not having very good games to end the season.
Overall, I would be happy for the most part but only because of gaining Britt and Warmack.
2017 Draft Priority for Pick 37
1. Corey Davis, WR, WMU
2. Forrest Lamp, G/C, WKU
3. Evan Engram, TE, Ole Miss
4. JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, USC
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Joined: 06 Feb 2006
Posts: 6812
Location: WESTCOAST
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 1:35 pm
Post subject:
I too am not a fan of Floyd pick personally. I think there is better talent there. Like the Henderson & Cook signing. Admittedly, I'll have to look into Sanders a bit more, as I thought there was no way he was coming out so I haven't taken a chance to see the footage on him. The games I did see, he did pop. Also, think I've come around to prefer Swearinger to Jefferson at this point.
But, I will say, fantastic job on the mock visually and explanation wise. I know just how long these take and this must have taken hours.
Welcome to the LA Rams
Gerald Everett, TE
Cooper Kupp, WR
John Johnson, S/CB
Josh Reynolds, WR
Samson Ebukam, Edge
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El ramster
Joined: 13 May 2008
Posts: 63945
Location: Jared Goffs Bed
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 1:47 pm
Post subject:
Not a fan at all. We draft another WR after trading for Britt? Yeah I don't see that happening. Not to mention that we take another DT?
Again I don't see that happening. I see Kenny Vaccaro and Keenan/Jonathan Cooper.
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l3lind golfer
Joined: 17 Nov 2005
Posts: 53794
Location: California
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 3:02 pm
Post subject:
Love trading for Britt, he's an elite WR if he can stay healthy. I also love getting Cook Jr, he has the ability to be a top TE with his skillset. Those two alone would make the offseason fantastic. As far as the draft goes, I don't like us taking two defensive linemen in the first three rounds. Love Warmack, Jefferson and Sanders.
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Joined: 15 Jan 2011
Posts: 1688
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 3:04 pm
Post subject:
Love it with the exception of Ace. I think its too early for him. Warmack, Jefferson, Floyd, and Watson are 4 of my favorite players in the entire draft. Would love Sheldon instead of Floyd but I bet he goes in the 8-15 range.
Props to mike23md
YAWK YAWK YAWK YaWK
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Joined: 18 Sep 2006
Posts: 7176
Location: Near food
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 3:09 pm
Post subject:
I definitely understand where you're going with this mock, and that makes me appreciate it a little more. Basically, it's kind of an "out with the old, in with the new" type of mock, one suited towards the evolution of the new offense and defense that the Rams are running.
That being said...there are only a few moves I don't like, and unfortunately these are the ones kinda spoiling it for me.
1. As some have already said, getting another DT would be great, but spending it on a 1st rounder just seems overboard. I don't think DT was the problem with the defense this year. I understand the philosophy, as in using this spot as the cornerstone, giving guys more rest to make better plays. However, I also think that some defensive players get better as the game goes on, and Brockers is one of those players. I like the player choice though, Floyd is great. Still, I think there are more teams out there that can utilize him better than the Rams could. If the Rams were to snag a DT, I would like the idea of bringing in Datone right where you have him drafted in the 3rd round.
2. A couple of the FA moves. I've already spoke my mind about Britt, all I will add to it is that I like how Jenkins and TruJo have been pretty well behaved, I don't want this piece of crap walking into the locker room and giving the team distractions.
Also, the Jared Cook move. Maybe I'm biased though because I've been really happy with Kendricks. That being said, I would like Kendricks to stick around and be the receiving tight end. If the Rams were to grab one, I would like one that's awesome at blocking (Cook's no scrub at blocking). Basically, the only reason I don't like this move is because of my faith in Kendricks. Other than that, it makes total sense, and going from a mock standpoint, it wouldn't surprise me at all if this actually happens.
Other than that though, I really like it. I took time to read through the captions so I had a better understanding of where you were coming from. My notions weren't a disapproval of the mock, just differences on philosophy. (see! i can make contributions to the forum that aren't in the form of Andy Reid jokes!)
Stan Kroenke listens to Nickelback
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Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 8347
Location: Watch out for In Your Ear
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 3:56 pm
Post subject:
El ramster wrote:
Not a fan at all. We draft another WR after trading for Britt? Yeah I don't see that happening. Not to mention that we take another DT?
Again I don't see that happening. I see Kenny Vaccaro and Keenan/Jonathan Cooper.
Kenny Vaccaro is crap. There I said it. He just inst very good and I wont ever know why people like him. He is a selfish player who likes to be on the highlight reel but will often whiff or make a bad read in anticipation of the "Splash" play. I dont want that guy on my defense, especially since he will likely have to be a FS in the NFL and the last line of defense. Guys who can play like that and get away with it are few and far between. (mostly just Ed Reed)
And we dont have to add more than 1 WR this year? As the roster sits now we need to add another WR, and now with letting Danny, Ginbson & Steve Smith all walk, only adding Britt isnt enough. So far in my offseason I only have 5 WRs on the roster (Britt, Quick, Givins, Sanders, & Pettis). While I like that group alot, it is in no way one that doesnt need more talent infused into it.
Flatlyner wrote:
Not a fan of the Floyd pick, I do agree a rotational DT is needed but
Im just not very high on Floyd as a 1st round prospect
. Also not a fan on the Herderson signing.
Im not sure how you come to that conclusion, but to each his own. Id love to know what you guys exacty think is there at the end of the 1st round (remember this isnt Pick 22, its after a trade down to 27) I see a bunch of overrated Safeties, some TE prospects (dont need with Cook & Kendricks now), A bunch up 'upside' WRs (who we dont need with trading for Britt) and the Middle of the Ridiculous DL depth of this draft.
Another thing some of you seem to not be understanding about what Im saying with this DT we will likely be getting. Its not a "rotation DT" because that infers they are just there to spell guys and get in there for Passing downs. No, this guy would be like a 3rd Starter at the DT position. With running about 75 snaps per game on D, we were running 5-6 guys in those 2 positions all game long. Brockers & Langford were only getting 40-50 snaps each per game with Cudjo, Hayes, Sims & who ever was the 4th DT at the time splitting the other 50+ snaps per game. Thats a whole extra starters worth of snaps .You have 3 damn good DTs getting 40-45 snaps per game being fresh the entire game, and you still have 30ish snaps of the other specialty guys. I would say this DT spot is just as important to the Defense this offseason as the SLB spot. They could see close to the same amount of work with as much Nickel we have been running.
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Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 8347
Location: Watch out for In Your Ear
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 4:15 pm
Post subject:
l3lind golfer wrote:
As far as the draft goes, I don't like us taking two defensive linemen in the first three rounds.
You all realize that if we lose William Hayes in Free Agency we are completely Devoid of depth along the Defensive Line...
Our backup options right now are a 2nd year Matt Conrath (DT), RFA Eugene Sims (DE), a RFA Jermelle Cudjo (DT), and Practice Squad Mason Brodine (DE). Yep, those guys, maybe a Vet Minimum guy, a 6th or 7th rounder, and some UDFA should be PLENTY of depth on the DL.
This team is not as put together as some of you seem to think it is. We have next to No depth across this entire roster.
Ramsfan28 wrote:
2. A couple of the FA moves. I've already spoke my mind about Britt, all I will add to it is that I like how Jenkins and TruJo have been pretty well behaved, I don't want this piece of crap walking into the locker room and giving the team distractions.
I knew this would come up, and I will ask the same question I do every time I bring up Britt; Who on the Titans has he corrupted? The answer is no one. Is he a bone head? Sure. Does he run in some questionable circles? Yep. But nothing he has doen had been awful, or even affected their locker room really. I could just see the Tennesse Front Office & Coaching Staff using him as a scapegoat for a sub par season as well as just tired of dealing with all the little things that they inherited, not asked for. Fisher did ask for those, thinking he could keep them in check, and he mostly did while he had him.
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Joined: 23 Aug 2010
Posts: 7571
Location: [D]MV
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 4:40 pm
Post subject:
StLunatic88 wrote:
l3lind golfer wrote:
As far as the draft goes, I don't like us taking two defensive linemen in the first three rounds.
You all realize that if we lose William Hayes in Free Agency we are completely Devoid of depth along the Defensive Line...
Our backup options right now are a 2nd year Matt Conrath (DT), RFA Eugene Sims (DE), a RFA Jermelle Cudjo (DT), and Practice Squad Mason Brodine (DE). Yep, those guys, maybe a Vet Minimum guy, a 6th or 7th rounder, and some UDFA should be PLENTY of depth on the DL.
This team is not as put together as some of you seem to think it is. We have next to No depth across this entire roster.
Ramsfan28 wrote:
2. A couple of the FA moves. I've already spoke my mind about Britt, all I will add to it is that I like how Jenkins and TruJo have been pretty well behaved, I don't want this piece of crap walking into the locker room and giving the team distractions.
I knew this would come up, and I will ask the same question I do every time I bring up Britt; Who on the Titans has he corrupted? The answer is no one. Is he a bone head? Sure. Does he run in some questionable circles? Yep. But nothing he has doen had been awful, or even affected their locker room really. I could just see the Tennesse Front Office & Coaching Staff using him as a scapegoat for a sub par season as well as just tired of dealing with all the little things that they inherited, not asked for. Fisher did ask for those, thinking he could keep them in check, and he mostly did while he had him.
I dont think value wise its a good idea to spend a first on a DT. Why not pick one up in the 2nd or 3rd? I could get behind that.
And while I have no problem trading for Britt, I have a problem with signing him to a long term contract which would happen if he comes over here and balls.
Other than that, love the mock.
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Joined: 23 Oct 2005
Posts: 24425
Location: St. Louis
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 4:43 pm
Post subject:
Do you have us resigning Steven?
I like it. It's different but I like it, seems like every mock draft has us taking the same 4 or 5 players. And I agree with you, Vacarro is crap.
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Joined: 31 Dec 2008
Posts: 5182
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 4:51 pm
Post subject:
holt_bruce81 wrote:
Do you have us resigning Steven?
I like it. It's different but I like it, seems like every mock draft has us taking the same 4 or 5 players. And I agree with you, Vacarro is crap.
You people are crazy, Vaccaro is a good safety. Maybe a bit overrated by some, but he'd be a good fit for this defense.
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Joined: 23 Oct 2005
Posts: 24425
Location: St. Louis
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 4:56 pm
Post subject:
Ok I shouldnt say crap. But I wouldn't spend a 1st rounder on him. And I've been seeing him go top 20 in a ton of mocks.
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Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 8347
Location: Watch out for In Your Ear
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 5:27 pm
Post subject:
jjab360 wrote:
holt_bruce81 wrote:
Do you have us resigning Steven?
I like it. It's different but I like it, seems like every mock draft has us taking the same 4 or 5 players. And I agree with you, Vacarro is crap.
You people are crazy, Vaccaro is a good safety. Maybe a bit overrated by some, but he'd be a good fit for this defense.
A liability in deep coverage is a good fit for this defense? IN a scheme where we often play 2 deep zones, he is a terrible fit.
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text:
Starburst Expandable Dining Table
- Overview
All-star dining. A smoky cerused-oak-veneer surface, slender solid wood legs and a compact oval shape lend simple grace to the Starburst Expandable Dining Table. The grain of the wood forms a subtle starburst pattern that adds a hint of festive flair.
- 70-90"w x 40"d x 29.5"h.
- Solid ash wood legs and oak veneer top in Fog.
- Seats 6; seats 8 when extended.
- Expands on a smooth gliding system.
- Imported.
- 70-90"w x 40"d x 29.5"h.
- Details + Dimensions
- Overall product dimensions (without leaf): 70"w x 40"d x 29.5"h.
- Overall product dimensions (with leaf): 90"w x 40"d x 29.5"h.
- Thickness of tabletop: .75".
- Comfortably seats up to: 8.
- Clearance under table: 26.4".
- Make sure it fits! See our guide on measuring for delivery.
- Number of boxes: 1.
- Shipping package: 75"w x 45"d x 6.75"h.
- Packaged weight: 109 lbs.
Assembled upon delivery via White Glove Service. .
Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth. To protect finish, avoid the use of chemicals and household cleaners. Hardware may loosen over time. Periodically check that all connections are tight.
- Shipping + Return Info
- White Glove Service and Inside Delivery items are delivered into your home by appointment (Mon – Sat) in most metropolitan areas.
- A representative will call to arrange a delivery date and confirm an appointment time frame (typically a 4-hour window).
- Available in the contiguous 48 states only.
- Quick Ship fabric items receive delivery in 2 - 4 weeks.
- Special order fabric (SPO) items receive delivery in 8 - 10 weeks.
White Glove Service: White Glove is a premium service required on oversized furniture items and has an associated fee (standard shipping + processing costs still apply). With White Glove, your order is safely brought into your home by a skilled delivery team on a pre-scheduled date, unpacked in the room of your choice and fully assembled. All packaging materials are removed upon completion. Does not include installation (i.e. wall mounting of shelving units).
Inside Delivery: Inside Delivery is required on larger items that do not require assembly (i.e. oversized rugs, mirrors) and has no associated fee (standard shipping + processing costs still apply). With Inside Delivery, items are delivered on a pre-scheduled date to the room of your choice but are neither unpacked nor assembled.
The shipping rate varies depending on your order total and shipping options. Please note, some furniture, rugs and other large items that are bulky or heavy items have a delivery surcharge listed in parentheses ($) after the item price. These delivery surcharges are in addition to the standard delivery shipping charges. View Shipping Rates and Options
We happily accept returns on stocked items within the time frames listed below. Products designated as special order (SPO) cannot be canceled or returned. All items on our website and in-store are considered 'stocked' unless expressly identified as 'special order' instead. Prior purchases are not eligible for price adjustments. Please familiarize yourself with our returns policy before placing your order.
Stocked Items: If you are dissatisfied with your purchase of a stocked item, you must exchange or return it within the following time frames for a full refund of the merchandise cost (delivery fees are non-refundable). Outside these time frames, we will replace or refund your purchase against manufacturer's defects ONLY. Please note that we cannot accept returns on gift cards or items damaged through normal wear and tear. We also cannot accept returns of final-sale items, which are identified by a price ending in .99 or .97.
- Quick Ship upholstery items must be returned within 7 days of the order receipt date.
- All other stocked products must be returned within 30 days of the order receipt date.
Special Order Items (SPO): Because they're custom made to your specifications, special order items may not be canceled or returned and are exchangeable against manufacturer's defects ONLY. SPO includes special order upholstery items, monogrammed/personalized items, special order rugs, one-of-a kind rugs and any products being shipped directly from a third-party vendor. Any special order items will be flagged as 'special order' in your shopping cart. NEW JERSEY CUSTOMERS: Special-order upholstered furniture returns are subject to applicable state law and are non-returnable after 24 hours of delivery.
For further assistance please call our customer service department at 1.888.922.4119 or send an email to email@example.com

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Williston Hitchcock's reopens under new name
Published: Friday, January 11, 2013 at 5:48 p.m.
Last Modified: Friday, January 11, 2013 at 5:48 p.m.
Hitchcock's grocery store in Williston has become Williston's Grocery Depot under the same ownership.
The store had shut down in late December before reopening under the new name.
A manager referred calls to Hitchcock's headquarters in Alachua. Several calls there were not returned.
Hitchcock's has nine stores throughout North Central Florida. The Williston location was removed from the company website.
Both Hitchcock's and Grocery Depot are owned by Hometown Supermarkets of Minnetonka, Minn., according to state incorporation records.
Hometown Supermarkets is a division of Haug Enterprises, which purchased the Hitchcock's stores in 2008. Haug also operates SuperValu franchise stores called Cub Foods in Minnesota.
D.J. Wiedmann, assistant manager at the nearby Ladds NAPA Auto Supplies, said that unlike Hitchcock's open floor plan, Grocery Depot is designed to control the flow of customers, with one entrance and one exit.
"They're now set up where they almost herd you in one direction," he said. "The biggest change was they got rid of the deli."
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.


text:
I just upgraded to Eden and was quite excited about the improvements made. ... until I tried to play a mkv. XBMC immediately crashed an restarted and no matter what setting I try to change, I just can't get it work. All other videos do work without any problems but mkv does not. I've already searched for any sollution here, I indeed found some solutions, but none of them worked for me.
Does anyone have any idea what else I could try?
Some facts:
The system runs on Ubuntu Natty, all packages are up-to-date, both audio/video runs through hdmi to my tv.
And the last crashlog:
13:34:00 T:139897145444096 NOTICE: -->Python Interpreter Initialized<--
13:35:09 T:139897397167872 NOTICE: CDVDVideoCodecFFmpeg::Open() Using codec: H.264 / AVC / MPEG-4 AVC / MPEG-4 part 10
13:35:18 T:139897843836864 NOTICE: DVDPlayer: Opening: /home/xbmc/Test.mkv
13:35:18 T:139897843836864 WARNING: CDVDMessageQueue(player)::Put MSGQ_NOT_INITIALIZED
13:35:18 T:139897405560576 NOTICE: Creating InputStream
13:35:18 T:139897405560576 NOTICE: Creating Demuxer
13:35:18 T:139897405560576 NOTICE: Opening video stream: 0 source: 256
13:35:18 T:139897405560576 NOTICE: Creating video codec with codec id: 28
13:35:18 T:139897405560576 NOTICE: CDVDVideoCodecFFmpeg::Open() Using codec: H.264 / AVC / MPEG-4 AVC / MPEG-4 part 10
13:35:18 T:139897405560576 NOTICE: Creating video thread
13:35:18 T:139897405560576 NOTICE: Opening audio stream: 1 source: 256
13:35:18 T:139897172842240 NOTICE: running thread: video_thread
13:35:18 T:139897405560576 NOTICE: Finding audio codec for: 86019
13:35:18 T:139897405560576 NOTICE: Creating audio thread
13:35:18 T:139897153836800 NOTICE: running thread: CDVDPlayerAudio::Process()
13:35:18 T:139897153836800 NOTICE: Creating audio device with codec id: 86019, channels: 6, sample rate: 48000, no pass-through
13:35:18 T:139897153836800 ERROR: PulseAudio: Waited for the Context but it failed
13:35:18 T:139897153836800 ERROR: PulseAudio: Failed to create context
13:35:18 T:139897172842240 ERROR: CWinSystemX11::XErrorHandler: BadValue (integer parameter out of range for operation), type:0, serial:273, error_code:2, request_code:130 minor_code:10
I would appreciate your help...


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Ohne Titel Fall 2014
Alexa Adams and Flora Gill of Ohne Titel usually have art and artists on the brain when designing their collections (of course, even the name of their label is partly a reference to one of German artist Anselm Kiefer's pieces). This season, the inspiration was the work of Kasper Sonne, whose colorblocked tufted works hung behind the runway. You could see the influence there in the color palette—oxblood, navy, black, and white—and in the ultramodern knits the two have become known for. "This is a really strong texture season," Gill said backstage after the show. The two often experiment with different consistencies, especially when it comes to those knits, but this season they took it further with a new half-cotton, half-synthetic Japanese textile that looks almost like feathers. It came into play in tops, skirts, and a jacket.
There was leather mixed in, like on a quilted pullover, and jacquard—especially good in a black-and-oxblood pullover paired with a pleated skirt. Those knit skirts have become somewhat of an Ohne Titel special, a signature their women no doubt look for every season. And fall's were right on. The thing about Gill and Adams is that for all their conceptualism and artistic leanings, they usually tend to bring it all back to real life with special things you can actually wear, and good, practical designs. For the shopper who likes to pair a button-up under her sweater? Trousers that have "shirttails" attached at the waist. "It's a new take on the cummerbund," Adams explained. And to go with it all, Ohne Titel shoes (this time: thigh-high boots, chunky heels), which also just get better with each offering.
The stars of the show, though, were the metallic knits (this time, references to Sonne's block works that have a liquid-metal look, Gill said). A silver shrug over a silver top and skirt is the one to have come fall.


text:
INOVA XS AAA Powered LED Flashlight, Anodized Aluminum, 53 Max Lumens - XSDMA-HT
Photon Micro Light 2 Key Ring With …
Photon Freedom Micro Light White LE…
Gerber Infinity Ultra Task Light, W…
Streamlight Stylus Pro, Black Body,…
Gerber Recon LED Flashlight with DI…
Streamlight MicroStream, Black Body…
Photon Micro Light 2 Turquoise (nig…
Fenix PD35 TAC Tactical Edition LED…
LED Lenser 880048 P4 Pocket-Size LE…
UST Ultimate Survival KLIPP Mini LE…
On Sale: $2.98
IOXSDMAHT: INOVA XS - AAA Powered LED Flashlight - Anodized Aluminum
About the size of a tube of lip balm, the INOVA XS flashlight is extra small, extra bright, and extra handy. And that's a big deal.
The INOVA XS features the same exceptional engineering you'd expect from the INOVA line, in an unexpectedly compact, lightweight size. Powered by a single AAA alkaline battery, it has a patented optical system - precision-machined aluminum reflector with thermal interface - that provides superior light projection and visibility. With an effective range of 190 feet, its beam is exceptionally powerful for such a compact flashlight. Dual-mode functionality provides long hours of either High or Low power light output. The included metal S-Biner and lanyard make it a snap to attach the XS to a key chain, belt loop, zipper pull, or D-ring, but it's small enough to fit easily in a pocket, too, and light enough to carry with you wherever you go.
ANSI/NEMA FL1 – Flashlight Basic Performance Standard
Shopping for a flashlight and trying to compare the features and benefits of several different lights can be confusing. Until very recently there was no consistency in how flashlight specifications were presented on the manufacturer's website or product packaging. One flashlight package may list "30 lumens" and another might state "2 million candlepower", leading to confusion and frustration when trying to compare lights.
The flashlight industry recognized this inconsistency in communicating features & benefits to the consumer and collaborated to write a standard for the following products: hand-held portable flashlights, spotlights and headlamps. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard has been widely accepted in the flashlight industry, and supported by many national retailers. You will start to see packaging in stores that shows simple icons letting you know the product specifications for each light.
As a manufacturer of high-quality, high- performance LED flashlights & accessories, Nite Ize is proud to support these industry standards. Nite Ize is currently integrating these icons into our website and product packaging for both Inova brand and applicable Nite Ize branded products. We want our customers to know exactly what they are buying, to understand the product features, and to be able to fairly compare our products with those of other manufacturers. Please see below for additional information about these standards.
Product Catalog Page
Product Warranty / Instruction Sheet
- Dual Light Mode Functionality. Features both HIGH and LOW Light Output Modes.
- LED Color: White
- Lumens: High - 53 | Low - 6
- Run Time: High 1 hr 20 min | Low 26 hours
- Battery Type: 1-AAA Alkaline battery included
- Effective Range (up to): 190 ft (58 m)
- High-Powered, energy efficient 50,000 hr LED
- Patented optical system, precision machined aluminum reflector with thermal management interface.
- Aerospace-grade aluminum with high grade anodized finishes
- Water-resistant construction and O-Ring seals
- 3 Position End-Cap Switch activates constant and momentary high and low as well as a lockout mode.
- Dimensions (Length x Diameter): 2.9 in x .6in (73.6mm x 15mm)
- Weight: 1.10 oz. (31 g) without lanyard attached.
- Try me packaging - allows for lighting demonstration
- Limited Lifetime Warranty


text:
Poly High and Granite Bay's football teams have several things in common: They both started the season 1-3, both have won 11 consecutive games, both like to run the ball more than pass it and both will be playing for the state Division I championship - against each other tonight at 8 at Home Depot Center.
"Wow, what a team," Grizzlies coach Ernie Cooper said of Poly. "They're everything and then some, the real deal - big, fast and explosive. ... You can see that they've turned their season around.
"Their season mirrors ours. We were both 1-3, lost to some really good teams, and then got things turned around. They're playing Poly football right now."
Indeed, much has been made about the remarkable turnaround by the Jackrabbits, who won the CIF-SS Pac-5 Division title after their bummer of a start.
But Granite Bay, which won the Sac-Joaquin Section Division I title, had its own dramatic comeback from a slow start. The Grizzlies lost 24-6 to Westlake, 48-13 to Oaks Christian, defeated Vacaville 47-21 and then lost to Pittsburg 28-27 to start the season.
It was therefore understandable that when Granite Bay defeated St. Ignatius last week in the Northern California state regional game, the Grizzlies were over the moon.
"It was scary at first (to start) 1-3," senior running back John Cooley, who rushed for 206 yards and four touchdowns on 24 carries, told the Sacramento Bee. "But we are destined to win state. All week (coach) Cooper said we are a special team, and he said we are the best team to ever come through Granite Bay.
"It shows now."
Cooley is one of three solid running backs who have helped the Grizzlies average 273.3 yards per game on the ground. Cooley has 1,556 yards and 17 touchdowns, Tony Ellison has 1,144 yards and 11 touchdowns and Taft Partridge has gone for 789 yards and nine scores. Ellison also has been a standout receiver, with 49 catches for 585 yards and eight TDs.
Poly coach Raul Lara said he is impressed.
"They are very similar to what we're doing," he said. "They like running the ball, they like playing tough defense. The thing that comes out watching the film of them is they are very disciplined. They come out of the huddle quick, they line up quick, they get off the ball quick, they hit their plays quick. They're just a very disciplined team and we've gotta be sharp and ready for that."
Lara said he is mindful of the way Granite Bay executes its ground game.
"They really run the ball very well inside, inside the tackles," he said, "so that's something that we're concerned about and we need to take care of business."
Granite Bay also has a fine passing game, even if it is not used as extensively as its running game. Quarterback Grant Caraway has completed 142 of 218 passes (65.1 percent) for 1,761 yards, 27 touchdowns and just five interceptions.
Putting pressure on Caraway could be a key, and the Jackrabbits (12-3) have put a lot of that on during this postseason.
The Grizzlies (12-3) will have to stop the fierce running back duo of Washington State-bound Gerard Wicks and Manusamoa Lu'uga, who has been offered a scholarship by the Navy. Wicks has 1,440 yards and 18 TDs, Lu'uga has 1,326 yards and 13 scores.
Then there is the Poly passing game, which last week saw both Tai Tiedemann and Eban Jackson II throw touchdown passes on fourth-down plays in the Jackrabbits' 28-7 Southern California regional victory over Clovis North.
In both cases, Poly was close enough to attempt a field goal. But Lara went for the gusto and proved successful, something of which Granite Bay will have to be wary.
Lara said he noticed last year when his team played and lost to Santa Margarita in the Pac-5 Division playoffs that Eagles coach Harry Welch liked to go for it on fourth down.
"And so during the offseason, I kind of went back and kind of looked and the probability of accomplishing a first down off a fourth down and the percentage - believe it or not - is pretty high," Lara said. "And so we decided to go ahead and start doing that and I think with the combination of us not being very solid with a kicker right now, it kind of contributes to that.
"If you noticed, that's not the only time I've gone for it on fourth down. There have been many other times that we've been pretty successful."


text:
University donors step up, set private giving record
University of South Carolina donors who include alumni, staff, students, faculty, friends, corporations, and foundations rallied strongly to support the University's fund-raising effort in 2008-09, resulting in a new private giving record of $107.5 million.
Funds were raised between July 1, 2008, and June 30, 2009. The number of donors also rose to an all-time high of 46,469. Nationally, charitable giving to education dropped about 6 percent in 2008, the steepest decline since 1956, according to The Chronicle of Philanthropy.
The new fund-raising total follows closely in the footsteps of the University's previous private giving record of $106.2 million for 2007-08. Unprecedented private support in consecutive years shows that despite a major recession, donors value the University's ability to provide world-class education for students on its eight campuses.
The $107.5 million benchmark included significant increases in program enhancements that fund research and outreach, and continuing trends showing yearly increases in first-time donors and online gifts. Donor support is used to endow scholarships, fellowships, endowed chairs, and professorships; to enhance programs by providing gifts such as technological improvements; to fund new academic facilities and programs; and for many other purposes. Private giving allows universities to continue their development and growth during a period of decreased federal and state funding.
"This level of support from South Carolina's alumni and friends is a true measure of the esteem and loyalty they hold for our institution," said University President Harris Pastides. "I am especially gratified that in the midst of the most difficult economic downturn in decades, the University's friends have stepped up and supported the University's core mission of teaching, research, and outreach on every campus. This speaks volumes about the bedrock foundation we have to build upon for Carolina's future."


text:
Bookmark this site
GLENDALE HEIGHTS, IL -- Coin Mechanisms, the North American distributor for Azkoyen Payment Systems, has announced the availability of the new Azkoyen R1 mini payout hopper.
The R1 hopper features three coin payout configurations -- left side, right side and top -- with a payout rate of up to seven coins per second. Incorporating anti-coin-jam design and flash technology, the Azkoyen R1 works on 12- or 24-VDC power. It includes both full and empty sensors as standard equipment, and can accommodate coins ranging in size from 14.5mm. (0.57") up to 33mm. (1.3") in diameter, and in thicknesses from 1mm. (0.04 in.) to 3.3mm. (0.13"). According to Coin Mechanisms, it is ideal for the amusement, kiosk, gaming and change machine markets.
Coin Mechanisms, founded in 1968 by Arlene Pierz, has many firsts to its credit, including the Coin Comparitor (1983) and a succession of line-leading electronic coin and token validators. In 2004 and 2005, the company continued to diversify its business by offering additional innovative products including cold-cathode fluorescent lighting (CCFL) and wedge-base LEDs, as well as hoppers and multi-coin validators from Azkoyen Payment Systems (Peralta, Navarre, Spain). Coin Mechanisms also markets Debitkey debit systems and a universal topper sign.


text:
Amelia Bedelia Celebrates a Landmark Birthday
Amelia Bedelia, the well-meaning housemaid in Peggy Parish's famous children's books of the same name, is fifty years old! We are celebrating her birthday with an interactive display. Those of you who have loved her books will remember that Amelia had difficulty understanding English idioms, with hilarious result. So when Amelia's boss leaves her a note to change the towels, dust the furniture, draw the drapes, put the lights out, measure two cups of rice, and dress the chicken, --well, check out our display on the first floor to see what she did.


text: Now it is just a bunch of 22-35 year olds who say nothing but "I work on the hill/for a non-profit, and I'm soooo into social justice. I'm totally going on a hike this weekend before I play kickball. I'm so stoked because I got a new custom fleece, and it will be perfect with my farty craft beer once we get to the end of our hike. I just wish I could embroider my fraternity letters along with "Hope and Change" on the inside." Fixed to make it about DC. I don't know what the East Coast translation of "stoked" is, though.


text:
A milestone for a local hospital
(Akron) - Akron General Medical Center celebrated its' 100th anniversary Thursday.
As part of the celebration, the hospital unveiled a new forty foot mobile unit that can extend the institution's care outside of its' facility.
The unit comes complete with two exam rooms, a blood-draw room and it will be staffed by a nurse practitioner and an EMT.
The 40-foot bus will go to churches, schools, organizations and companies which need health screenings.
Dr. Tim Stover says it extends the hospital's mission of taking health care to the patient.
Get breaking news sent to your mobile phone. Text "news" to 21095.
(Copyright 2014 Clear Channel, all rights reserved.)


text:
Prepping for Election Day in Summit County
November 4, 2012
Even with six vote centers up and running, voters should expect long lines at the ballot box Tuesday as Summit County and the rest of the country head to the polls.
Election Day 2012 starts at 7 a.m. Tuesday. The polls will close at 7 p.m.
Polling places will be open at the Old County Courthouse and the Riverwalk Center in Breckenridge, Dillon Town Hall, the Summit County Community and Senior Center in Frisco, the Silverthorne Pavilion and Summit Cove Elementary School from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Registered voters will be able to cast their ballots in-person or drop off mail ballots at the polling places. Local voters can go to whichever vote center is most convenient. Summit County does not require residents to vote by precinct.
In-person voters must show a valid ID.
Individuals who received a mail ballot, but want to vote at the polling place will be able to do so.
More than 14,000 people – 87 percent of the local electorate – turned out to vote in Summit County in the 2008 presidential election, and officials are expecting similarly high participation this year.
The numbers mean voters may encounter long lines and waits of up to two hours at the polls on Tuesday, election officials said.
The motor vehicle office, located in the Old County Courthouse, will be closed on Tuesday to allow the staff to help with the election. The office will reopen at 10 a.m. on Wednesday.
Questions or concerns regarding voting and Election Day logistics should be directed to the Summit County Clerk and Recorder's Office at (970) 453-3479.


text:
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
In Praise of "Voluntourism"
Now then.
A few months back my group applied for and received a Change Ambassadors Grant from Travelocity's very awesome Travel for Good program. They have a wide variety of service projects to choose from, and we eventually settled on the GlobeAware Care for Cusco program.
Why? Do you SEE the llamas? (Actually we wanted the opportunity to work with the kids)
Cusco is surrounded by incredibly remote villages that are only reachable, if you have a car, by a two+ hour trip on bumpy dirt roads. Since the people who live there don't have cars, the trip is an arduous one hour walk and a three hour bus ride. Since the parents in the remote villages want to send their kids to Cusco to school so they can have a better future, some Cusqueños opened an "albergue" for these kids to stay in Cusco during the week, to go to school and learn extra Spanish and English in the afternoons and evenings. Then they make the four+ hour return to their villages on the weekends. It's not really an orphanage, but some of the kids who live there are orphans.
The alberque:
Volunteers from the US come to the albergue a few times a year to help improve the house by day and work with the kids to play games and teach English in the evening. The main project we worked on while there was the construction of a stone bench so that the kids could watch each other play futbol and voley (aka volleyball).
Like so:
It really ended up being a fine bench, if I do say so.
The kids were incredible, hilarious, and very eager to improve their lives. They come from some of the most humble and geographically remote places on Earth (I have never seen mountains like the mountains in Peru), and they welcomed us with open arms. They can also play a mean game of Uno.
While there we also....
Went to a remote village to help a family build a new stove out of mud and straw:
Played futbol atop ancient Inca ruins (well, technically the kids played while I choked on thin air from the hike up. Did I mention Cusco is 11,000 feet??):
Celebrated birthdays by stuffing our faces with cake (a tradition, or so they claimed):
Wore alpaca wool hats while visiting a pre-Inca volcanic salt farm:
And of course made the trip to Machu Picchu:
All in all it was simply an incredible, amazing trip, and not an exaggeration to say it was life changing. It's easy to get so caught up in life and work and one's own challenges and to forget the incredible need out there both around the world and in our own backyard. I know we're in a tough economic climate, but if you have the opportunity I cannot recommend a volunteer trip enough.
Here are the links again, please check them out and give it some thought!
Travelocity's Travel for Good program
Travelocity's Change Ambassador Grant
113 comments:
- Keren David said...
But did you eat guinea pigs?
- July 14, 2009 at 3:52 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
Beautiful photographs. Looks like you had a meaningful and extraordinary trip. Thanks for posting photographs!
- July 14, 2009 at 3:53 PM
- David said...
You didn't mention the Curtis Brown shirt. (I assume that's what that is.)
That's a wonderful thing to do. Helping those kids, I mean, not wearing the CB t-shirt, although that might well be wonderful, too, depending on what it's made from.
- July 14, 2009 at 3:55 PM
- Felicity said...
I think a trip like this would be perfect for writers - a break from our normal routine (which can inspire creativity) and a chance to help someone live a better story (which is enough in itself).
- July 14, 2009 at 3:55 PM
- Jeff said...
I know what you mean, I recently got back from a mission trip to Haiti and it was refreshing to get away from the constant demands of our life in the States. I'm almost envy the simplicity of the people.
I always feel like I gain more than I give on the trips.
- July 14, 2009 at 3:57 PM
- Laurel said...
Great pics! Thanks for posting.
I lived further down the same mountain range in Argentina and it is very challenging country but incredibly beautiful. I never got a chance to get to Peru but it is still high on my hit list of places to see. Esp. Machu Piccu... I'm so jealous!
Cheers and welcome home.
- July 14, 2009 at 3:58 PM
I work for nationally known nonprofit and we have 100s of thousands of volunteers. We could not do what we do without them.
With that said, find something you like... a mission, an organization, a cause, a need and volunteer.
Nice to see you volunteering, Nathan.
A friend has this on his email...The Titantic was built by professionals, the Ark by volunteers.
- July 14, 2009 at 3:58 PM
- sylvia said...
Funnily enough, Alice who writes My Wintersong has just returned from a trip to Peru as well. Is this the start of a trend or do I just have exceptional taste in the blogs I follow? ;)
What is it about Machu Picchu that every photograph of it looks photoshopped?
- July 14, 2009 at 3:59 PM
- Deaf Indian Muslim Anarchist! said...
That is really cool you volunteered AND saw beautiful scenery and met cool folks on vacation. I'm definitely gonna try to do Voluntourism soon. No idea where at, though.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:03 PM
- Neil said...
Nathan -- dude that Machu Picchu snap looks so photoshopped!
Seriously though, nice work and well done.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:03 PM
- ryan field said...
Nice post.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:04 PM
- Deaf Indian Muslim Anarchist! said...
hey just curious: Did you speak Spanish?
- July 14, 2009 at 4:05 PM
- Dan said...
I think you should've worn your Piggly Wiggly t-shirt on Machu Picchu.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:05 PM
- AM said...
Voluntourism (volunteer vacations).
I'd never heard of this before.
I checked out the sites you provided, and I've learned something valuable.
Thanks for sharing the information and your personal experience.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:08 PM
I know you're not big into sharing much about your personal life on this blog so thanks for letting us know more about your trip. It sounds like an incredible experience.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:09 PM
- Bane of Anubis said...
Nathan - mucho props -- and Machu Picchu - definitely one of the top 10 places I'd like to see.
You hear stories about kids traveling two hours to school each way (or walking 25 miles round trip) and it makes you appreciate what we have in first world countries... Actually seeing/experiencing the struggle for modest things (like education, housing) makes you realize how much we take for granted.
Thanks for sharing.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:13 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Oh yes. The family whose stove we built cooked us cuy.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:13 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Un poquito, but the others on my trip didn't speak much and did just fine.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:14 PM
- susiej said...
Keren David: LOL! We have two guinea pigs and a friend from Peru. We tease him all the time about wanting to grill our pigs.
Natha: looks like it was a fantastic trip. Way to go.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:14 PM
- Melanie Avila said...
It sounds like a wonderful trip. Like thermocline said, thanks for sharing with us.
My mother was in that area last year, and once again I'm amazed at how much it resembles where I currently live (minus the 11,000-ft elevation, good lord.) I've had cake shoved in my face here -- I think it's a Latin thing. :)
- July 14, 2009 at 4:15 PM
- Mira said...
Wow. Pictures. That is so cool -
thanks for sharing these, Nathan. It makes it very real. Especially the happy llama. (I think he really is happy! That Llama is smiling.)
The kids look happy, too. They're having a wonderful time. It's nice to see.
I can see why this kind of trip that would have a powerful impact. Good for you, Nathan.
And I bet the bench was awesome.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:15 PM
- Anna said...
This was a fantastic read and view... Thanks so for the pics, as well as the reminder.
Looks like you had one heck of a time too, btw... :)))
- July 14, 2009 at 4:16 PM
- Lisa Schroeder said...
Love it, especially the pics. Thanks for sharing. And I agree, some perspective is always good.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:20 PM
Thank you.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:22 PM
- SharonK said...
Was May Vanderbilt part of your group? She also had a great write up on the experience on her blog.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:24 PM
- Kristi said...
It sounds like it was an amazing journey. My husband said just yesterday that he wants to go to Machu Picchu. I looked into volunteer trips for the family a few months back, but it looks as if our 2-year-old has to grow a little older first. There's nothing like helping others to snap one out of an ego-centric focus - not you, of course - just people in general. Glad to have you back.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:26 PM
- Abby said...
What an awesome experience. Very cool! Thanks for sharing!
- July 14, 2009 at 4:29 PM
- Livia said...
I did a project on Cuzco for 8th grade Spanish class. I still remember making a Machu Pichu model out of spray painted sugar cubes.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:30 PM
- Wendy @ All in a Day's Thought said...
Very cool. Meaningful!
~ Wendy
- July 14, 2009 at 4:33 PM
- Keren David said...
I was thinking of this image of the Last Supper hanging in Cusco cathedral: http://imnotbenny.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/dsc00099.jpg
Jesus and the disciples feasting on a guinea pig.
On my mind today because we just went to chose our new guinea pigs, and they were pure Beatrix Potter.
Anyway, looks like a great trip...hope the piggies tasted good.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:33 PM
That llama didn't look happy, it looked possessed.
The white-furred animal kinda looked a little freaked too!
- July 14, 2009 at 4:36 PM
- Liana Brooks said...
Looks like a blast!
- July 14, 2009 at 4:37 PM
Absolutely amazing! Thanks for telling us about your trip.
The hat is quite a look. Hope you brought it home with you.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:43 PM
- Kayleigh Jamison said...
Wonderful, Nathan! I have also done volunteer work in Peru (Cajamarca for me) and absolutely loved it.
Next you have to go to Russia. Equally awesome.
(And I don't know about you, but I did eat cuy when I was there)!
- July 14, 2009 at 4:47 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Yeah, we saw that painting. It was pretty incredible.
And cuy tastes like rabbit, only chewier.
- July 14, 2009 at 4:49 PM
- Tracey S. Rosenberg said...
Yay llamas!
For people interested in this sort of thing I can personally recommend Service Civil International volunteer camps. I spent two weeks in Slovenia working with Roma children (several years ago, but it was awesome enough for me to still be talking about it).
- July 14, 2009 at 4:53 PM
- Precie said...
Wow. What a great experience. Thanks for sharing!
- July 14, 2009 at 5:04 PM
- Tricia J. O'Brien said...
Reading this and looking at the photos makes me happy like a llama. Thanks for making that trip and sharing it.
- July 14, 2009 at 5:07 PM
- Charlie said...
My Peruvian wife found your post insightful. She's from San Jancinto, which she said is far from Cusco.
I'm supposed to renew my vows there next year.
- July 14, 2009 at 5:08 PM
- PurpleClover said...
Wow. The pictures are absolutely amazing. I'm sure the trip was exhilarating and fulfilling. You guys made a difference that will change lives for these youths and that is to be commended!
Thanks for keeping us in the loop!
- July 14, 2009 at 5:10 PM
- Yat-Yee said...
Thanks for the reminder of what's important, truly important, in life
- July 14, 2009 at 5:11 PM
It looks like you had fun. I see a real smile in all of those pictures. Even with frosting.
Last night, I read a posting about sending you our MS. In short, if you don't know who to send it to send it to you because you read just about anything. Even Twilight. How was Twilight? Enjoyable? Wish you never spent the money? You have to scratch your head to answer? Curious really.
The other question I have is when I read the Submission guidelines for Curtis Brown it mentioned sending in a sample chapter, query letter, and resume. The first two I'm familiar with but my question is on the resume. Is that like the resume we use to get a job?
- July 14, 2009 at 5:18 PM
- B.J. Anderson said...
Wow, that is awesome. Thanks for the pics. I'm going to check out that site.
- July 14, 2009 at 5:23 PM
- Cat Moleski said...
Thanks for sharing your adventure. I feel inspired, too.
- July 14, 2009 at 5:25 PM
- Steph Damore said...
Nathan - as soon as you said you were volunteering in Peru I thought "Wow, what a life-changing experience." Sometimes you just know it.
You're right, nothing like voluntourism to put life into perspective. I can complain all I want about being broke, but I will never face the hardships millions of people face everyday. Thanks for the reminder.
- July 14, 2009 at 5:31 PM
- Rick Daley said...
All I can say is: Wow. OK, I'm not kidding anybody. You all know I can say a lot more than that. But still: Wow.
I'm assistant coach on my son's soccer team, does that count as helping the kids?
WORD VERIFICATION: rupla. Don't know, but it seems fitting for Peru, don't you think?
- July 14, 2009 at 5:46 PM
- Lady Glamis said...
This is incredible, Nathan. I would love to do something like this. Thanks for the links!
- July 14, 2009 at 5:54 PM
- Elaine 'still writing' Smith said...
Seeing a different life certainly makes you see life differently.
Do the children teach, or learn about the world?
- July 14, 2009 at 6:08 PM
- A Paperback Writer said...
Great idea, great photos.
Thanks for sharing it, Nathan. It looks like you got a great balance of helping others, seeing the REAL culture, and seeing a few cool tourist sites as well. Very, very nice.
- July 14, 2009 at 6:12 PM
- dan radke said...
Good for you, dude. I'd be, oh, TERRIBLY AFRAID of going to any underdeveloped areas. Including certain parts of the USA. You're a braver man than I.
- July 14, 2009 at 6:14 PM
- sex scenes at starbucks said...
Wow how brilliant. And that llama looked REALLY happy to see you!!
- July 14, 2009 at 6:14 PM
- Laura Martone said...
Hi, Nathan.
Well, all I can say is... Wow! What a wonderful way to spend a vacation. Good for you for being so altruistic (ESPECIALLY in this tough economy). And since I know you don't usually post "personal" stuff on this particular blog, I feel honored that you shared your photos and stories with us!
- July 14, 2009 at 6:28 PM
- Anonymous said...
Awesome! As the mom of an amazing almost-4-yr-old with Down syndrome, I've been looking for an opportunity to travel abroad to work with parents of children with Down syndrome, as well as orphans with Downs, in areas where there aren't resources for them. I can't wait to look into Travelocity's grant!
Thanks for sharing!
- July 14, 2009 at 6:33 PM
- Steven Till said...
It is truly an eye-opening and wonderful experience to visit a 3rd world country and help the people there. I've been to Linden, Guyana (just a few countries over from Peru), and the people there are incredibly happy and content, even with unemployment sometimes approaching 50% (and we complain about 9.5%) and people living in houses that are one-room 15x15 ft.
About the birthday cake picture, did they shove your face in the birthday cake, or was that voluntary? I know in Mexico, for birthday celebrations, they sing a song and then someone comes up behind the person whose birthday it happens to be, and they shove that person's face in the cake. Didn't know if that same tradition occurred in Peru.
Glad you made it back safely. Are you planning going back?
- July 14, 2009 at 6:34 PM
- kdrausin said...
I enjoyed reading about your trip and seeing your pictures. Did they have many books for the children to read?
- July 14, 2009 at 6:36 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
They told me it was tradition to take a big bite out of the cake. I saw it coming and tried to bite and dash, but they still got me.
I'd love to go back to Peru someday, but there's so much in the world to see!
- July 14, 2009 at 6:37 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Yes, they do have books, but I brought some more for them.
- July 14, 2009 at 6:38 PM
- Etiquette Bitch said...
thank you for sharing and cheers! looks wonderful...very inspirational.
- July 14, 2009 at 6:42 PM
- Charlotte said...
I don't know who is smiling wider - you or the llama. Great way to spend your vacation time, Nathan.
- July 14, 2009 at 6:44 PM
You are an impressive person.
- July 14, 2009 at 6:58 PM
- bryngreenwood said...
Sounds like a great vacation on a number of levels. I guess now I know what's on "the list" to eat in Peru is guinea pigs.
- July 14, 2009 at 7:10 PM
Sounds like a wonderful experience. Thank you for sharing it and spreading the word.
- July 14, 2009 at 7:12 PM
- M. Dunham said...
My mom does all sorts of service trips to Peru and Guatemala (she's native Spanish speaker, so you can see the need). It's great seeing pictures of your trip!
I'm curious - I always hear horror stories about the showers since many have open wires nearby and has something to do with turning the hot water/shower on? Did you have any weird experiences like that?
- July 14, 2009 at 7:16 PM
- Kathleen Noud said...
Great photos Nathan. You've made me miss Peru even more! When I visited a village near Cusco, the kids made me play a hopscotch tournament and I thought I was going to die ;)
- July 14, 2009 at 7:22 PM
I've been on Cross Cultural Solutions mailing list for years, but never knew about the grants available. Thanks for spreading the good news - I'm hoping my wife and I can secure a grant to finally volunteer together!
I went to a restricted corner of India last December for 3 weeks as an assistant instructor in a whitewater rafting school for tribal villagers. (I'm still hoping a magazine editor will rescue my feature article from the slush pile soon, too). The trip was - as always - eye opening and one of the best things I've ever done. Hopefully we're helping save this pristine land from being spoiled by encroaching developers and illegal loggers.
Thanks again!
- July 14, 2009 at 7:41 PM
- Lynne said...
Way to go, Nathan! Thank you from those incapable of doing *anything* at 11,000 miles above sea level. And it was a great bench, nice stove and oceans of goodness.
- July 14, 2009 at 7:42 PM
- Dawn Maria said...
Thanks for sharing your incredible experience. We were just talking about doing more community service with our teen boys this week. Now I'm really motivated. I'm also going to look into that program from Travelocity.
- July 14, 2009 at 7:49 PM
- D. G. Hudson said...
Thanks for sharing the photos of your volunteer work. There is so much poverty existing in other countries that we in the western world don't see.
It's good to have you back, Nathan.
- July 14, 2009 at 7:59 PM
- Sara Tribble said...
That is AMAZING! Love this and so glad your back! It looks like you had quite an experience--I can only imagine! Peru! =D
- July 14, 2009 at 8:01 PM
- Yamile said...
Wonderful pictures! How wonderful that you had the opportunity to visit a new country, serve others, learn about a new culture...fantastic! And I LOVE that you spelled futbol like it really is!
- July 14, 2009 at 8:24 PM
- Nancy Coffelt said...
You rock!
I've done some work like that here in the states, but I need me some llamas!
- July 14, 2009 at 8:26 PM
Did you read Three Cups of Tea? It's phenomenal…and life-changing.
- July 14, 2009 at 8:34 PM
- The Decreed said...
Glad you had the awesome and rewarding experience, Nathan. About a month ago I got back from a two week mission trip in Uganda that sounds quite similar to your own: construction, play with the kids, choke on thin air (we were at about 9,000 feet). We had a Mzungu (White Person) versus Ugandan soccer (football, sorry) game there, too--need I say how that turned out?
- July 14, 2009 at 9:04 PM
What a lovely thing to do and then share -- except for the guinea pig part (I have had too many as pets). Where will you go next?
- July 14, 2009 at 9:17 PM
Great photos and wonderful that you were able to get away to voluntour :)
I've been checking these out ... nice to hear from someone who has done it.
As a writer ... I also have other creative outlets, one happens to be fiber art with alpaca fibers. I do believe that the friend you made in the first photo was an alpaca! I was going to raise them, but love traveling more and a farm with animals would tie me down :) Aren't they great animals = they hum, it's so soothing :)
Peru is on my list of must visit places.
- July 14, 2009 at 9:17 PM
- Lisa Dez said...
Wow. I mean...just...wow.
- July 14, 2009 at 9:25 PM
Fantastic! And it's so nice that you're spreading the word about "volountourism" (lol), which is obviously great fun and rewarding!
Glad you had such a great time!
- July 14, 2009 at 9:32 PM
- Martha Ramirez said...
Wow what an experience! Congrats on making it possible to be there to help! :)
Martha Ramirez
- July 14, 2009 at 9:42 PM
- Carol said...
Thanks for sharing your experience. I love the pictures.
- July 14, 2009 at 10:14 PM
- Alina said...
Oh my goodness, the llamas! I must go.
What an amazing adventure you had! My dad goes down there once or twice a year to perform OB surgeries for villages that don't have surgeons. I'd like to join him one of these days when my kids are a bit older. They'd surely have a few jobs for this lowly writer to do.
Thanks for sharing!
- July 14, 2009 at 10:31 PM
- Heidi the Hick said...
We have a real tradition in our church to go do volunteer trips. I haven't done any.
But now you show me LLAMAS and I feel I must go!
Seriously, what a wonderful way to spend a vacation. You must have learned so much, and I'm kind of envious! Thanks for sharing!
- July 14, 2009 at 10:41 PM
- Other Lisa said...
Wow! Looks like it was a fantastic trip. Put me in the "hard pressed to do more than lie down" that far above sea level. But I'd love to give it a shot.
Thanks for the stories, the photos (llamas!!!) and links.
- July 14, 2009 at 10:44 PM
- Matilda McCloud said...
What an amazing experience that must have been for you. It's wonderful these children have this school to go to during the week.
I imagine this was a life-changing trip--and as you said, this kind of volunteer experience sure gives one some perspective.
- July 14, 2009 at 10:59 PM
- Amy said...
Love the pics Nathan, thanks for sharing.
Congrats on your deal in PW today!
- July 14, 2009 at 11:05 PM
My husband, a photographer, had a magazine assignment in Peru. I went along as writer. We went to Cusco to a ranch owned by an American couple. ( Since take over by the government) The woman started a school for the shepherd's children. Beautiful place. I felt exhilarated. Husband had to find oxygen! I'm glad to hear a school is thriving.
- July 14, 2009 at 11:23 PM
- Sarah Laurenson said...
Awesome. Just awesome.
- July 14, 2009 at 11:47 PM
- Kristin Tubb said...
What a wonderful experience! Thank you for sharing. And...shearing? (Llama jokes *kill* in my neck of the woods.) ;-)
Yay, volunteers!
- July 14, 2009 at 11:57 PM
- Steve Fuller said...
I always assumed literary agents ate small children for breakfast. But you actually helped children.
Nothing makes sense anymore.
- July 15, 2009 at 12:16 AM
- holly cupala said...
I've always thought you were a cool guy - this just confirms it.
- July 15, 2009 at 12:31 AM
There were places I went, when I lived in Colorado, where the altitude was so high, when you got there, all you could do was sit around and laugh. Really!
I think you went higher!
Nice guy. Friend to llamas and writers and little kids too. Wow!
- July 15, 2009 at 12:36 AM
- Donna said...
Ah..ha; the light comes on! I may be slow, but lurking in corners eventually pays off. I am glad you had fun on your "voluntourism" trip, and am happy, Nathan, you shared so much of your personal life with our group.
And thus the enlightenment. From the varied comments, I take it this post is unusual in that it shows you in something other than a professional light. You did not ignore my previous questions for some personal information (ie: your first queries and such). You were sticking to professional ethics.
Thanks for the lesson; and thanks for a glimpse into your private causes.
The pictures are beautiful, and if I may be so bold, seem to have also drawn a great many followers into the concept of voluntourism. A worthy sentiment indeed. I hope to see more of your photo journal; the pictures are inspiring and poignant.
Thanks for sharing this part of yourself with us.
- July 15, 2009 at 12:42 AM
Well, that's a very generous and nice thing you did. I hope those people would have granted you and your team all the blessings they could pour (and I personally wish that I, too, could reprieve such beautiful experiences by helping others, especially rustic blokes).
- July 15, 2009 at 1:56 AM
- Vacuum Queen said...
What is the group you went as a part of? Curtis Brown? That's cool. I had no clue that groups put trips like this together. dur.
- July 15, 2009 at 2:14 AM
- Kiskadee said...
brings back fond memories: I was in Cuzco and Machu Piccu way back in 1971 -- not as a volunteer but as a backpacking nut. One of the greatest times of my life, so thanks for reminding me.
I have worked as a volunteer in India and I can only agree with Nathan that what you get is far, for more than you can ever give. There is nothing so rewarding.
@Steven Till:
I am from Guyana - glad you liked it! And you are correct that people there are mostly content despite dire circumstances.
And by the way, anyone looking for a proper (paid) job in Guyana supervising a coconut/coffee farm and eco-lodge in the Interior, as well as volunteer work with the Amerindians, please contact me.
"It is truly an eye-opening and wonderful experience to visit a 3rd world country and help the people there. I've been to Linden, Guyana (just a few countries over from Peru), and the people there are incredibly happy and content, even with unemployment sometimes approaching 50% (and we complain about 9.5%) and people living in houses that are one-room 15x15 ft."
- July 15, 2009 at 6:28 AM
- Kim Rossi Stagliano said...
Nathan, this is amazing. Thanks for promoting volunteerism. It's great to travel too, but there are plenty of opportunities in everyone's backyard too. Big Brother, Big Sister, Habitat for Humanity, Nursing Homes, Soup Kitchens. The need has never been greater as more Americans slip into near poverty with this economy.
One question - no photos of your bride? Did you she make promise not to post a picture of her?
- July 15, 2009 at 8:01 AM
- abc said...
I heart llamas. Super duper, Nathan. I love that you did this! Also, pictures are fun.
- July 15, 2009 at 9:07 AM
- Joseph L. Selby said...
Did you sing llama llama duck ( http://www.albinoblacksheep.com/flash/llama ) while you were there?
- July 15, 2009 at 9:17 AM
- Wanda B. Ontheshelves said...
Wow. Phenomenal, fantastic.
You know how everyone says they'd really really like to have Nathan for their literary agent? I think he's just quadrupled the number of really's for a whole lot of writers. Me included!
Yes, I know, synopsis, plot, market, economy, style, will the dang thing sell?
Regardless, Pablo Neruda smiles.
- July 15, 2009 at 10:18 AM
- Alli said...
Back in 2000/01/02 I lived in Cuzco and worked as a tour guide. In my spare afternoons I taught English to the street kids so they could use this to sell wares to tha kazillions of tourists. Their enthusiasm, laughter and beautiful, smiling faces will always be with me. I learnt a lot about the humanity that changed my soul profoundly - I am so glad you had a chance to have this experience.
- July 15, 2009 at 10:20 AM
Good for you!
I often write about similar trips for the local newspaper--working now on a package about two individuals who volunteered overseas for Habitat for Humanity--and the stories never fail to inspire me.
- July 15, 2009 at 10:23 AM
- katieleigh said...
What a cool trip. (And thanks for humoring us with the photo of the llama.) Seriously, it is humbling to see how some people struggle, when we have so much - and yet how joyful they are. Thanks for sharing.
- July 15, 2009 at 10:26 AM
- Dara said...
Awesome! It's always nice to see an outpouring of love and friendship for our brothers and sisters.
We often take for granted what we've been blessed with in this country and seeing how other people live really makes you appreciate life, especially when they make the most of what they have.
Thanks for sharing!
- July 15, 2009 at 10:33 AM
Aren't these types of trips the most rewarding way to travel? My husband and I used to lead trips like this to Cuba, Argentina, and Chile. After several years of doing this, traveling just for fun seems a bit empty. Thankfully neither of us is very shy so when we do travel for fun we usually find ourselves interacting with the locals in some form or fashion.
- July 15, 2009 at 11:04 AM
- lynnrush said...
Amazing. Thanks for sharing the photos and the story of your trip!!
- July 15, 2009 at 11:16 AM
- Missy said...
Thank you for posting! When I submitted my application I had no idea that we chose the same cause. Now I have a better visual of what I can expect if I get selected.
Again, thank you for posting the link. I was not aware that a program like this existed. I am so glad you enjoyed yourself.
- July 15, 2009 at 11:35 AM
- nkrell said...
Here, here. It looks like you had an amazing trip!
- July 15, 2009 at 12:00 PM
- Danielle Gibbons said...
Hi Nathan,
Thanks for sharing your experience in Cusco. I support the Casa De Milagros at www.chandlersky.org. It is an orphanage in Cusco Peru that a woman, Mama Kia, from the U.S.started.If any of your readers are traveling to that area, the Casa is always in need of supplies, as you now know how hard it is to get things to those areas. Check out their website for all the info. Thank you for your service! Danielle
- July 15, 2009 at 2:13 PM
- Anna Claire said...
Thanks for posting pics. The trip looks amazing, and you guys are awesome for doing it.
- July 15, 2009 at 5:24 PM
- Reesha said...
Awesome pics. Awesome time. Awesome deed.
Good job.
Word verification: cherredr. Accidentally putting cheese through the shredder.
- July 16, 2009 at 9:33 AM
I think we have to rename you.
Saint Nathan.
- July 16, 2009 at 12:24 PM
I was really impressed by the photos, and yes, the llama/alpaco was my favorite. Actually they all were, so much that I had to check out the websites you mentioned, which got me started thinking how great it would be to volunteer for one of the on-going projects. Thank you, Nathan.
- July 16, 2009 at 12:36 PM
- wendy said...
How amazingly cute was that picture of you with the llama! And you looked ok, too.
Yup, old joke. :)
- July 18, 2009 at 9:13 AM
- Kristin said...
WOW!!! What an amazing trip, Nathan. So awesome that you got to go!
- July 24, 2009 at 1:08 PM