It’s Saturday, and with it … heavy thoughts for the human mind. While doing a 19 mile training run in preparation for Grandma’s Marathon, I came across this field of dandelions (see my photo). When your brain is in never, never land … during extreme exercise … I thought … why is a dandelion considered a weed, while a poppy is known as a flower? I thought the blanket of yellow leading down to Medicine Lake was gorgeous! Via Google Images, I found a red carpet of poppy’s for comparison. You decide! Click either thumbnail for an expanded view.
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My Mom said my name this evening, "Rich". Within seconds she was lost to me, but I still gave her a huge hug and she smiled. I had not heard my name spoken by her in many years. My Mom has very advanced Alzheimer's. I cried in happiness; I doubt she will ever say my name again.

If your parents are ever in this situation, enjoy the small things … last night my Mom spit in my face as I helped her get ready for bed. Tonight by using my name, she made me the happiest person in the world.

• Photo #1: Mom and Rich – Duluth Airport in 1957
• Photo #2: Will, Stew, Mom and Rich – Christmas 1981
• Photo #3: Commemorative Stamp – Alzheimer's Disease

While on vacation this week, I stumbled upon the best road sign in America … at least for a Scandinavian American from Minnesota. Garrison Keillor would love it. Yah sure … you betchca!
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(click to view full sized image)
 

While the rest of the world travels south for Spring Break, where do three Minnesotans go?! We explored the Cascades Mountains and Orcas Island (Puget Sound) in Washington State.  We experienced beauty with nary a crowd (good prices also). Thus, I invite you to enjoy a few photographs from our trip. You'll ride the San Juan Ferry to Orcas Hotel in the Puget Sound, take a hike in Moran State Park, and finally relax at the South Bay Bed and Breakfast. 
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(Click to view full sized photo)

I'm on vacation for the next week. Thus, you'll pardon me if my posts … although still having a technical flavor, take upon less of a work focus. Today I bring you tracking sailing ships on the high seas (or the Great Lakes). Most folks know you can track commercial airplanes in flight, but did you know similar services are available for large ships?

This morning we head a few miles north to my home town of Duluth, Minnesota. The harbor ice is starting to disappear thanks to the efforts of the USCG Alder. Now … let's track some ships: (my thanks to Gordon Lightfoot … the inspiration for today's title)

• Tracking Duluth Ship Movements
• Video: Ice Breaking in the Duluth Harbor
• Lake Superior Web Cams

Click upon either image for an expanded view