https://icollectmaps.com/2020/07/10/living-organ-donation-part-1/2020-07-10T19:03:12+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2020/05/06/the-pandemic/2020-05-07T04:42:11+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2020/01/12/getting-to-tel-aviv/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/iphone-808.jpegmy El Al security sticker2020-01-13T03:38:04+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2019/12/20/a-bit-about-me-and-a-bit-about-the-greyscale-of-the-holy-land/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/jerusalem-2019-45.jpgJerusalem 2019-45A view of Jerusalem from the Monastery of Theodosius in Ubeidiya in the West Bankhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/jerusalem-2019-18.jpgJerusalem 2019-18https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/jerusalem-2019-79.jpgJerusalem 2019-79The entrance to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, a church that marks the location where Jesus was supposedly born2019-12-23T18:50:17+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2018/08/24/first-week-digital-nomad/2019-12-20T22:55:49+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2019/11/22/my-introduction-to-the-holy-land/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/day-2-west-bank-and-bethlehem-16.jpgAida Camphttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/day-2-west-bank-and-bethlehem-14.jpgAida Camphttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/day-2-west-bank-and-bethlehem-13.jpgAida Camphttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/day-2-west-bank-and-bethlehem-6.jpgtear gashttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/day-2-west-bank-and-bethlehem-4.jpgmain road Aida Camphttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/day-2-west-bank-and-bethlehem-7.jpgAbed's Aida Camp signPart of the back of Abed's sign2019-11-22T14:43:02+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2019/05/03/does-travel-need-to-be-meaningful/2019-05-03T17:51:38+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2018/11/17/my-second-trip-to-japan/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_9766.jpgimg_9766https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_9967.jpgimg_9967https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_9889.jpgimg_9889https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_9701.jpgimg_9701https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_9690.jpgimg_9690https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_9717.jpgimg_9717https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/970c2bd5-7355-4b0a-83d2-07180bc362a4-8519-000005a80b76ccea_file.jpg970c2bd5-7355-4b0a-83d2-07180bc362a4-8519-000005a80b76ccea_file2018-11-20T18:46:28+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2018/09/05/that-terrible-travel-quote/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/screen-shot-2018-09-04-at-4-04-31-pm.pngsanctimonious2018-09-07T16:04:43+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2018/08/14/living-in-wildfire-state-california/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cedar-fire.jpgCedar Fire San DiegoThe Cedar Fire crossed I15, which is the main artery in San Diego. https://timesofsandiego.com/opinion/2018/05/04/15-years-later-we-still-havent-applied-deadly-cedar-fires-lessons/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/screen-shot-2018-08-08-at-10-39-15-pm.pngSmokey the Bearhttps://twitter.com/smokey_bear/status/7857122814977679362018-08-15T21:07:09+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2018/08/05/digital-nomad-the-storage-unit/2018-08-06T05:30:47+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2018/07/28/making-plans-that-just-change/2018-07-29T02:57:53+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2018/03/28/space-cows-and-alien-abductions/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gbnp-trip-iphone-35.jpgGBNP trip iPhone-35https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gbnp-trip-iphone-34.jpgGBNP trip iPhone-34https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gbnp-trip-iphone-33.jpgGBNP trip iPhone-33https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gbnp-trip-iphone-31.jpgGBNP trip iPhone-31https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gbnp-trip-iphone-1.jpgGBNP trip iPhone-1https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gbnp-35.jpgGBNP-graffitihttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gbnp-23.jpgGBNP-flamehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gbnp-19.jpgGBNPhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gbnp-1.jpgGBNP - train stationThe train station at the end of the street, as seen the next morning.2018-04-03T21:33:38+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2017/07/21/my-life-as-a-traveler/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/gto-iphone-13.jpgGTO iPhone - 13Flying over Los Angeleshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/img_4319.jpgIMG_4319Several surfers surfing at sunset. San Diego. July 2017https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/guanajuato-44.jpgGuanajuato -44Guanajuato, Mexico. January 2017https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/edits-gopro-11.jpgEdits - GoPro-11Riding a paraw in Boracay, the Philippines, November 2016https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/nepal-edited-41.jpgNepal edited-41Everest, Nepal, December 20152018-01-25T10:14:07+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2016/03/11/death-life-wandering-kathmandu/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nepal-edited-55.jpglined up for gasVehicles lined up to get gas. Lines choked traffic, and the vehicles were often abandoned because wait times were so long.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/sitting-at-pashupati.jpgsitting at pashupatiPhoto thanks to Sylviehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/gbr_1049.jpgGBR_1049Photo thanks to Chloehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nepal-edits-15.jpgrickshawshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nepal-edits-14.jpgmandalahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nepal-edits-12.jpgmen painting mandalashttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nepal-edits-6.jpgmonks at boudhanathhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nepal-edits-4.jpgPashupati man birdshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nepal-edits-2.jpgPashupatinath Templehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nepal-edited-37.jpgprayer flags2016-03-14T05:11:38+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2016/02/18/nepal-cast-of-characters/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/nikon-104.jpgdrivinghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/nikon-600.jpghuh?I don't remember what they were looking at, but I love how confused they all look.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/nikon-584.jpgNepal vanhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/nikon-375.jpgselfie sticksThe siblings (Joel and Julez) with their selfie sticks. Say what you want about selfie sticks - they came in really handy on this trip.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/nikon-99.jpgKathmandu streethttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/nikon-95.jpgbookstorehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/nepal-edited-79.jpgNepal travel familyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/nepal-edited-30.jpgKGHA peephole window on the landing between the fourth and fifth floors of the Kathmandu Guest Househttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/nepal-edited-11.jpgstreet near KGH2016-02-18T16:37:55+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2016/01/26/kathmandu-nepal/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/iphone-114.jpgKTM policehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/gopro-60.jpgGoPro 602016-01-28T06:05:35+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2016/01/19/traveling-dubai-uae/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/iphone-104.jpgiPhone 104https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/iphone-103.jpgiPhone 103https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/iphone-101.jpgiPhone 101https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/iphone-99.jpgiPhone 99https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/iphone-96.jpgiPhone 96https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/iphone-91.jpgiPhone 91https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/iphone-75.jpgiPhone 75https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/gopro-44.jpgfisheye mosquehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dubai-edited-33.jpgDubai edited-33https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dubai-edited-26.jpgDubai edited-262016-01-19T21:08:12+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2016/01/08/traveling-washington-dc/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-21.jpgDC edited-21https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-17.jpgDC edited-17https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-16.jpgDC edited-16https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-15.jpgDC edited-15https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-13.jpgDC edited-13https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-11.jpgDC edited-11https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-8.jpgDC edited-8https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-4.jpgReflecting Pool coinshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-2.jpgDC edited-2https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dc-edited-1.jpgDC edited-12016-01-09T01:41:23+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2015/04/15/168/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/screen-shot-2015-03-17-at-4-38-15-pm.pngweakhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/screen-shot-2015-03-17-at-4-29-15-pm.pngno panichttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/screen-shot-2015-03-17-at-4-17-21-pm.pngnohttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/screen-shot-2015-03-17-at-4-08-25-pm.pngno ideahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/screen-shot-2015-03-17-at-3-26-27-pm.pngStuart Smalley2015-12-09T22:16:57+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2015/12/06/salvation-mountain-california/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/salvation-mountain1-1.jpgSalvation Mountain1-1https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/thumb_img_0149_1024.jpgthumb_IMG_0149_1024asfhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/thumb__dsc6094_1024.jpgthumb__DSC6094_1024https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/thumb__dsc6090_1024.jpgthumb__DSC6090_1024https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/thumb__dsc6087_1024.jpgthumb__DSC6087_1024https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/thumb__dsc6067_1024.jpgthumb__DSC6067_1024https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/thumb__dsc6048_1024.jpgthumb__DSC6048_1024https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/thumb__dsc6045_1024.jpgthumb__DSC6045_1024https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/thumb__dsc6037_1024.jpgthumb__DSC6037_1024https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/thumb__dsc6033_1024.jpgthumb__DSC6033_10242015-12-07T04:50:12+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2015/12/01/how-move-dallas-san-diego/2015-12-07T01:32:12+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2015/09/05/fear/2015-09-14T00:30:10+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2015/05/21/scotland/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy8005.jpgMandy8005On my way to Edinburgh Airport from Glasgow. Perfect timing for snow.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy7970.jpgMandy7970The bus ride from Portree (Isle of Skye) to Glasgow took us through The Trossachs National Park. Unbelievable. Absolutely incredible.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy7964_1024.jpgMandy7964_1024https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy7957.jpgMandy7957A still, bright day. On the bus to Glasgow.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy7949.jpgMandy7949Oh, shut up. Now you're just showing off.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy7916.jpgMandy7916https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy7867.jpgMandy7867https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy7852.jpgMandy7852https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy4758-2.jpgMandy4758 2A well-placed campaign stickerhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/mandy4757_1024.jpgMandy4757_1024[Filtered and cropped (duh)] Old meets new. Kind of Glasgow in a nutshell2015-05-16T01:13:41+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2015/03/10/167/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_7423.jpgIMG_7423Yup. The sunset. Not too bad.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_7387.jpgIMG_7387Saturday we drove out to Julian and passed vineyards along the way.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc3615.jpg_DSC3615I had to leave Sunday, but Jenn took me to a few more places before I left. Here's Torrey Pines State Beach, looking north. It was rainy and cold, but it was the perfect send-off.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc3605.jpg_DSC3605We raced back to San Diego so we could watch the sunset from Jenn's balcony. The clouds were just amazing.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc3587.jpg_DSC3587When we finally got to Julian, we had a lovely wine tasting at Witch Creek, then wandered along the main drag (Firefighter Steven Rucker Memorial Hwy), and happened upon this picturesque scene. It felt more like Colorado or Oregon than Southern California.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc3573.jpg_DSC3573Oh, y'know, just checking out the valley from the San Diego Safari. It's okay, I guess.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc3541.jpg_DSC3541Sunset Cliffs. My photos can't do this place justice.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc3534.jpg_DSC3534Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, where the skies cleared and the sun came beaming down.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc3491.jpg_DSC3491Ocean Beach. To get to this spot, we passed a fireman doing burpees in the garage. Hawt. And then I sat on a moldy orange. Not hot.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc3460.jpg_DSC3460The weather was atypical for San Diego, but was still fantastic. It threatened rain the entire weekend, but the clouds made for some stellar moody pictures.2015-04-15T18:17:26+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/11/06/166/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-11-06-at-8-44-50-pm.pngdrivingHow are you even driving?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-11-06-at-8-41-36-pm.pngi love you!Oooh, honey.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-10-18-at-9-57-22-pm.pngangryThis was the least-angry picture of the bunch.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-10-18-at-9-59-40-pm.pngdear diaryYou know this is a dating site and not your diary, right dude?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-10-18-at-10-10-29-pm.pngPhotoshoppedI think this might be 'shopped.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-10-19-at-10-52-56-pm.pnggreat messageLoved this message. Zero attraction to the sender, but his words made me smile.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-11-06-at-8-27-13-pm.pngtoo honestThis answer, coupled with a terrible, slightly frightening set of pictures, made NO super easy.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-11-06-at-8-25-29-pm.pngmine's the sunOh, honey.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-10-21-at-12-17-57-am.pngbaby feverHa!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/screen-shot-2014-10-25-at-7-37-01-pm.pngbeachIf we were to meet, would you look just like your profile picture? Better bring some sand, just in case I don't recognize you.2014-11-07T03:04:30+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/10/27/165/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_6288.jpgmatch emailasdlkfhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/screen-shot-2014-10-16-at-10-19-05-pm.pngquestioneHarmony asks hard-hitting questions like this one. I didn't actually answer it because really, what are those choices?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/screen-shot-2014-10-14-at-9-16-18-pm.pngfake out!Well then, nevermind.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/screen-shot-2014-10-14-at-9-15-41-pm.pngemailOkay, cool. I'll check him out.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/screen-shot-2014-10-27-at-5-18-59-pm.pngeHarmony match emailsSo I had zero matches on October 23rd?2014-11-07T01:07:11+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/10/21/164/2014-11-07T01:07:01+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/10/14/163/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/profile-cover.pngprofile coverOn the desktop version, this is what men see when they first click on my profile. There's still some kinks I need to work out.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/profile.jpgprofileCheck out that sweet Photoshop action!2014-10-15T02:12:23+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/07/20/162/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1524.jpgmy black dogthe baby2014-08-09T16:26:59+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/06/25/161/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3816.jpglight morninglighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1554.jpglight yogalighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1505.jpglight flowerslighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1483.jpglight candleslighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1477.jpglight stretchlighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1475.jpglight offeringslighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1467.jpglight incenselighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1366.jpglight windowlighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1354.jpglight potlighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1323.jpglight lanternlight2014-06-26T18:55:13+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/06/22/160/2014-06-26T14:39:34+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/06/15/159/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_5031.jpgbroken watchwatchhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_5030.jpgwe landed!landedhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_5029.jpgyoga roomroomhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_5026.jpgairportceilinghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1558.jpgempty chairschairshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1551.jpgyoga againyogahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1559.jpgempty terminalemptyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1556.jpgwarrior twotwo2014-06-15T22:22:27+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/06/14/158/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_5023.jpgPEK airportairporthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_5022.jpgPitch Perfectmoviehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_5004.jpgDizzy Junglejunglehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4995.jpgSab with cameracamerahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1468.jpgpraying manmanhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc0929.jpgfruit teateahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/p1020739.jpgtemple colorscolorshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/p1020723.jpgTemple bellbellhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3993.jpgV eyeseyes2014-06-14T20:43:03+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/06/13/157/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4994.jpgUnicorn shotpophttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4990.jpgchicken feethttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4983.jpgshoppinghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4961.jpgbike wallhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1513.jpgLongshan stepsstepshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3941.jpgMetrometrohttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3932.jpgbathroom lightslightshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1519.jpgdigital psychicdigital2014-06-13T18:17:15+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/06/06/156/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1406.jpgscent potspotshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3916.jpgdartsballoonhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3914.jpgDin Tai Fungdumplingshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3862.jpgbike pathpathhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3859.jpgquad bikebikinghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1459.jpgtrain conductortrainhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1442.jpgRice piramidsyumhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1427.jpgRyan's mugmug2014-06-13T17:22:59+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/05/19/155/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1401.jpgpotspotshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1397.jpgSabrina and ETEThttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1384.jpgbalancedbalancedhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1379.jpgtexturestextureshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1371.jpgsnake charactersnake characterhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1368.jpgred tea boxesred tea boxeshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1352.jpgrose tearose teahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1351.jpgHakka snackHakka snackhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1325.jpgtea mixtea mixhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1312.jpggiant Buddha statuegiant2014-05-20T16:06:37+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/05/18/154/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1248.jpghigh lowhighhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1233.jpgbroom benchbroomhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1212.jpgpathwaypathhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1206.jpgconfused lionlionhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1254.jpgmossymossyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1238.jpgarchesarchwayhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1231.jpgmossmosshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1227.jpgbuddhabuddhahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1197.jpgstatue of libertylibertyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc0904.jpgbike store signsign2014-05-21T01:04:18+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/05/05/153/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4979.jpgdouble fistingdouble fistinghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4977.jpgTea Housetea househttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1194.jpgtea at marketteahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1193.jpgstall at marketmarkethttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/p1020756.jpgXida roadxidahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3928.jpgUranusuranushttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3915.jpgHoe license platehoehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3909.jpgSabrina on scooterscooterhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3904.jpgPeking duckduckhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3902.jpglate night foodfood2014-05-06T01:49:07+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/02/07/69/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/charlotte-008.jpgcharlotte 008There are fireworks exploding within a block of the house on every corner, the dog outside is howling, but she's done for the night.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/charlotte-007.jpgcharlotte 007Our morning walk was exhausting, apparently. She passed out on top of Monkey.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/charlotte-006.jpgcharlotte 006This may have been just before she sniffed my Sprite bottle and spilled it on my former MacBook. That's why I haven't posted many pictures. These are all from my iPhone. I still don't have a laptop.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/charlotte-005.jpgcharlotte 005Yes, it's weird lighting, but she really does have a line between her ears where her fur abruptly changes color.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/charlotte-003.jpgcharlotte 003With those ears, she can listen to your thoughts.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/charlotte-002.jpgcharlotte 002I'm petting her with my left hand. Hundreds of dogs around me, and I focused on her.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/charlotte-001.jpgcharlotte 001I kept this picture open in one of my Firefox tabs for a month. I had it saved on my iPod. I was a little obsessive.2014-05-04T00:49:30+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/12/08/59/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3074.jpgformI love Peggy. She prints it all out for me and lets me be lazy.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3073.jpgchopThe bottom red stamp is Peggy's chop - her Chinese name carved into a small block of wood, which she uses to stamp official documents.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3071.jpge sun bankFilling out the form is kinda rough the first time, but totally doable. You just make lots of mistakes that you have to correct and sign.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3070.jpgledgerThere are machines at the bank that print your register. You don't have to do the math or remember how much that deposit was. It's glorious. Note that the dates are listed with year 100 - Taiwan uses the worldwide date of 2011, but internally uses its own country date of 100.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3067.jpgboa and arcThat picture's from 2005. The bank guy tricked me into taking my ID picture at 8:30am after a long week. It expires soon, thankfully.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3064.jpgcirrus and arcThat's right, my debit card has three baseballs and fancy reflective decorations on it. I'm a winner, obviously.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3062.jpgarcWHO IS THAT GORGEOUS MODEL ON YOUR ARC?!? This is my worst ID picture ever.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3053.jpgballin'I guess you can't really have primary-colored money. Not even Monopoly does that.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3051.jpgmoolaDear money: Where do you disappear to every month? I miss you.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3045.jpg50ntImagine carrying 11 of these in your wallet, which I've done. It's like lifting weights when you try to get it out of your purse.2014-05-04T00:47:07+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/04/30/152/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1076.jpgdog legsjosie dog legshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3897.jpgsabrina chiropractorcrackhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3886.jpghugging dogshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3878.jpgpeeing dogpeedoghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3870.jpgmandy and doghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1191.jpgsabrina and dogsabdoghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1188.jpgroof dogdogghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1175.jpggray dogdawghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1169.jpgblack dogdoghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1162.jpgherding dogsdogs2014-06-13T17:20:36+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/04/28/151/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1154.jpgSabrina and RooGorgeous puppy, sitting still for two seconds for a picturehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1123.jpgstanding guardWatching the rest of the dogs get put backhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1089.jpgdog smilingSmiling for the camerahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1072.jpghappy JosieJosie and the Puppydogshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1066.jpgvolunteers and dogsSabrina, Josie, and Rachel with the dogs of Building 3.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1023.jpgBuilding 3This is the inside of Building 3. Rudimentary, with a leaky roof, and home to around 100 dogs.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1006.jpgunder benchSitting under the bench was a popular activity, especially when Alpha Rachel was nearby.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc0986.jpgpuppy in grassWhile Josie loved on Five, this pup relaxed in the grass and waited for her attention.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc0980.jpgSafe puppyThis pup, Five, is a total sweetheart. He stood with his eyes closed as Josie gently ran her hands around his head.2014-04-30T23:37:36+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/04/24/150/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4975.jpgSabrina in the cornerAnd here's Sabrina in the corner of our room in Hsinchu. This was the only spot in the room where she could get the wifi to work on her phone.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4971.jpgpaint heart at Josie'sWe stayed at Josie's when we went down to Taichung, and I thought this heart chip in the paint was absolutely perfect.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4960.jpgTeacher LeeI made this a couple of years ago for Teacher Lee, the Chinese teacher where the kids study. She's kept it on the wall all this time.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4954.jpgSudokuhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_4953.jpgSabrina sleeping on planeSabrina, huddled in the corner, trying to sleep.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc1166.jpgreflection in five's eyesWhile we were in Taichung, we went to the no-kill dog shelter I used to volunteer at. I didn't like this picture at first because it's slightly out of focus, but I fell in love with it when I saw he was looking at the volunteers, who were reflected in his eyes.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3836.jpgkids and meOur tradition is to take a photo of all the kids in a circle on the floor. Shayna (the tiniest student) was sick, so I (big teacher) subbed for her.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3825.jpgtissue boxLinda, the mom of two of my former students, picked Sabrina and me up from the airport. Taiwanese are great about making things useful, like sticking a box of tissues to the ceiling of the car.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_3809.jpgSabrina with stuff, IAHhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc0834.jpgkids teaching SabrinaThe kids gave Sabrina her Chinese name (Luo Shao Li), then taught her how to write it.2014-04-25T19:35:18+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/04/21/149/2014-04-21T22:40:29+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/03/28/148/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/sia_2014_infographic.jpegSIA_2014_Infographic2014-04-15T22:51:36+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/03/23/147/2014-03-25T19:47:44+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/03/15/146/2014-03-16T21:06:14+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/03/12/145/2014-03-13T01:21:46+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/03/01/142/2014-03-07T20:04:21+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/03/07/144/2014-03-08T22:02:10+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/03/05/143/2014-03-06T15:07:18+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/02/26/141/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/img_4800.jpgFacebook postSpoiler alert: mission accomplished.2014-02-26T21:12:01+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/02/21/140/2014-02-23T05:47:59+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/02/19/139/2014-02-20T01:02:43+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/02/17/138/2014-02-18T15:51:23+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/02/15/137/2014-02-17T02:33:06+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/06/20/99/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/photo.jpgproofI'm almost 30, for goodness' sake. You'd think I was smarter than this.2014-02-14T21:43:23+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2013/09/14/128/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/fb-comment.jpgFB commenthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/photo-4.jpgtext exchangeI texted my coworker about Chuck. He apparently livened up on his second "date".https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/photo-3.jpgKrisKris's pickshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/photo-2.jpgmineMy notes and pickshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/photo-1.jpgtable2014-02-14T21:42:49+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/02/14/136/2014-02-16T03:41:06+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/02/03/135/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/img_3791.jpgPicture in Ellis IslandI was struck by how full the picture showed the hall to be, and how empty it was at the moment I was there.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/img_3790.jpgThe HallThe receiving hall at Ellis Islandhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/the-worlds-tallest-statue-is-under-construction-it-will-be-twice-the-size-of-the-statue-of-liberty.jpgFrom The Business Insiderhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_3777.jpgthe SoL pedestalhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc0521.jpgFlag in hallThe more I think about it, the more I really appreciated visiting this room.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc0519.jpgEllis Island logParting note: https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc0504.jpgPulling into Ellis Islandhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc0495.jpgStatue of LibertyThere she is!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc0481.jpgManhattan skylineThe Manhattan skyline.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc0478.jpgupskirt2014-02-07T01:52:39+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/about/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_1977.jpgBefore...About to fly Dallas to Los Angeles2016-01-07T16:25:55+00:00weekly0.6https://icollectmaps.com/2014/01/16/134/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/021.jpgFirst Date BroadwayThis picture is from the official First Date website. If I'd been close enough to take this, Zachary Levi would've smelled my pheromones and immediately fallen in love with me.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/first-date.jpgFirst Date - ZachHe's TALL.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/first-date-6.jpgFirst Date marqueehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/first-date-5.jpgAfter First DateWe went down to the orchestra section, but couldn't see the cast anywhere.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/first-date-4.jpgLongacre TheaterThe inside of Longacre Theaterhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/first-date-3.jpgbalcony seatsThis was the view from our seats after the show.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/first-date-2.jpgFirst Date - KrystaShe was TINY.2014-01-17T00:41:36+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/01/09/133/2014-01-09T15:16:47+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/01/03/130/2014-01-26T21:45:29+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2014/01/01/129/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_2416.jpgRoger Shahhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_2388-copy.jpgTaiwan Beer costumehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_2386.jpgcheershttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/img_2373.jpgon the train2014-01-01T16:44:51+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2013/09/12/127/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/photo.jpgTargetHalfway through the lesson2013-09-13T15:56:54+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2013/07/01/124/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/photo-21.jpgSevenly tweetI encourage everyone to check Sevenly out. It's a great organization. (http://www.sevenly.org)https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/photo-1.pngNotepadI was not in motion when I wrote this - I was at a light.2013-09-05T17:09:00+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/11/05/121/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/img_2321.jpgShaved icehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dsc7768-2.jpgYilanhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dsc7763-2.jpgSpring signhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dsc7754-2.jpgSuccess!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dsc7749-2.jpgCold springhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dsc7745-2.jpgAnother viewhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dsc7742-2.jpgGrand Finalehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dsc7733-2.jpgThe Answerhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dsc7724-2.jpgPrayer blockshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dsc7714-2.jpgPaying attention2013-03-14T05:31:09+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/10/16/120/2012-10-16T18:42:36+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/10/02/119/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/img_2324.jpgChop technologyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/img_2323.jpgCaitlin's chophttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7568-2.jpgBrave womanhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7567-2.jpgSTANKhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7566.jpgFresh juicehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7565-2.jpgNight market cuisinehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7545-2.jpgGodshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7543-2.jpgInside City Godhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7542-2.jpgChenghuang Templehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7536-2.jpgBig head, happy couples2012-10-02T22:33:42+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/09/28/118/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/img_23151.pngTempermental typhoonDuring Caitlin's entire stay, Typhoon Tembin was like, HEY! I wanna hang out, too! Thus, this lovely little storm circled back for a second trip to Taiwan. Luckily, it didn't affect her trip too much.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/img_2313.jpgNear Zhuwei Stationhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7516-2.jpgTHE CREEPYhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7513-2.jpgMetro stationhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7509-2.jpgNightfallhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7474-2.jpgWall decorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7473_2.jpgHandlehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7471_2.jpgSide doorshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7458_2.jpgTyphoon Tembin!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7447_2.jpgDusk at the Hall2012-10-02T22:22:21+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/09/22/117/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/img_2277.pngTyphoon Tembinhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7239.jpgTemple incensehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7237-2.jpgAnother viewhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7236-2.jpgLanterns and lightshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7235-2.jpgLanternshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7234-2.jpgDonation lightshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7233.jpgXilin Night Market templehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7223-2.jpgAppetizershttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7220_2.jpgMilk teahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7215-2.jpgModern Toilet!2012-09-23T01:18:08+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/09/19/116/2012-10-16T21:41:49+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/09/14/115/2012-09-23T22:20:35+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/09/07/114/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc7252-2.jpgFlat MandyApparently I was in Taiwan, 'cause here's Flat Mandy owning the mountains of Taipei from the world's second tallest building.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/img_2316.pngTaiwan typhoonYou know what else is weird? Typhoons that come back for seconds. Really, Tembin?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/img_2328.jpgclose encountersHe's just the right size for a lap dog at 50 pounds. I'd gueshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/img_2342.jpgspeedometerOf course, old habits die hard.2012-09-13T23:35:39+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/08/20/113/2012-08-20T16:03:43+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/08/15/112/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7124-2.jpgCalm RyanHis hands are always actively engaged in something.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7123-2.jpgCurious RyanHe finally gets his wish and stands in the boat.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7074-2.jpgBored RyanRyan didn't want to sit on the boat - he wanted to stand so he could see everything.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7053-2.jpgGrumpy RyanRyan wanted to go back to the hotel and play in the pool. His mom and dad made him go to a temple. Ryan is not pleased.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6994-2.jpgExcited RyanWe pulled over on a road so the adults could visit some food stands, and Ting Ting and Ryan started picking flowers.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6895-2.jpgAdventurous RyanKids are posing... Ryan's standing on part of the exhibit.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6839-2.jpgStylish RyanRyan, his hat, and his umbrella. The hat must've been glued to his head, because despite his hyperacticity, it stayed put.2012-08-16T01:27:07+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/08/13/111/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7114-2.jpgApocalypse Now?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7113-2.jpgAttack!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7089-2.jpgThrough the treeshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7086-2.jpgGravesitehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7072-2.jpgHatshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7065-2.jpgAnother passagewayhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7063.jpgThe forthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7042-2.jpgThe templehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7023-2.jpgLooking uphttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc7010-2.jpgCh'Ih K'an Lou (Fort Provintia)2012-08-13T06:02:41+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/08/07/110/2012-08-08T01:04:00+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/08/05/109/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6761-2.jpgView of the tophttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6754-2.jpgThe restauranthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6748-2.jpgSevenhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6743-2.jpgA Tainan sunsethttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6732-2.jpgKites!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6686-2.jpgThe touristhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6672-2.jpgInvasion of the kiteshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6633_2.jpgKite tailhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6629-2.jpgLin Mo Niang Statuehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dsc6606-2.jpgForest for the tree2012-08-05T11:42:06+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/07/31/108/2012-07-31T15:00:00+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/07/25/107/2012-08-05T11:45:07+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/07/19/106/2012-08-04T13:54:51+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/07/16/105/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6799_2.jpgDigestingThis is the inside of the restaurant. The waitstaff wore white cotton gloves on their serving hands, and each course came as soon as we all finished the course before. I was full in the Goldilocks kind of way: I felt just right. And then I fell asleep in the car on the drive back into town.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6798-2.jpgChildhoodBENDY STRAAAAAAAAAW!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6797-2.jpgTrippyLeaning glass of passion fruit juice. Probably not from concentrate.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6796-2.jpgOff the chartsCakey on the outside, custardy on the inside. Swoosh of chocolate I couldn't fit in the frame on top. Mouth-watering all around.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6795-2.jpgCup of awesomeChocolate mousse and berries inside a dark chocolate shell shaped like a teacup. I did not use my fork or spoon; I picked it up by the handle like a lady and ate it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6794-2.jpgDESSERTMango custardy-thing and a chocolate tart with lemon and raspberry sauces. I think. I need another for verification.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6792-2.jpgSalad courseThis was considered the salad course. A bit of roe atop spun noodles and greens with a vinaigrette. Thanks to my etiquette courses, I remembered not to slurp the noodles.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6791-2.jpgSidesThat's cabbage under a thick blanket of melted cheese. Next to it, salt that I dipped each bite of duck into.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6789-2.jpgDuckDuck. It slid off the bone and nearly melted in my mouth. The ONLY thing I didn't completely finish were the veggies on the side. Who invites peas to a party?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6788-2.jpgPaparazziWe interrupt this broadcast to show you exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of what happens when three photographers go to a fine-dining establishment.2012-07-16T14:17:55+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/07/14/104/2012-07-13T17:46:24+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/07/10/103/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_2145.jpgBack to Hsinchuhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_2141.jpgJack and Jessicahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_2137.jpgMy wristhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_2135.pngWhere'd we go?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6390-2.jpgDun dun duuuunhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6388-2.jpgLegit.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6385-2.jpgHeading backhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6377-2.jpgSunnyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6370-2.jpgSelf portraithttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dsc6364-2.jpgAt the top2012-07-11T01:54:55+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/06/28/102/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5637-2.jpgSleeping on the jobhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5632_2.jpgDetailshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5625_2.jpgLighting prayershttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5617_2.jpgPrayershttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5612-2.jpgPrayer blocks and offeringshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5603-2.jpgDecorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5594-2.jpgTemple in Hsinchuhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5592_2.jpgAlley viewhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5589-2.jpgStreet entrancehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5582-2.jpgIt's got four wheels and a motor2012-07-26T16:27:19+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/06/27/101/2012-07-03T01:23:50+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/06/21/100/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_2059.jpgroof rainThe rainy aftermath of the devastating typhoon!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_2053.jpgmapI'm coming back.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_2050.jpgtyphooooon!Here comes the rampaging typhoon! It was anticlimactic.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_2049.jpglesson learnedThe lesson: adjectives. In their defense, I told them to write every adjective they could think of on the board. The timing was just interesting after the Chubby Chaser Incident.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_2047.jpgpre-typhoonMere days before the apocalyptic typhoon!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_2032.jpgladidaRead this signal! Confused? This means, "WOO! He's twenty feet away! ...but he has my iPhone."https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_2029.jpghairIt's going to be hard to leave the woman by the window who has inches-long gray mole hair.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_1999.jpgJessicaThis kid is a ray of sunshine.2012-06-21T15:40:09+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/06/13/98/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720031.jpgSymmetryHuge leaves in a swamped fieldhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720030.jpgBlindTwo blind men practicing using their canes along the pedestrian bridgehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720029.jpgRed bridgeA pedestrian bridge in Miaolihttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720027.jpgBig skyRice paddies with new and older houses built next to and on top of the fieldshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720026.jpgSpecial leavesThese leaves are cooked, then wrapped around Taiwan's famous pyramidal rice dumplingshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720025.jpgBlue truckDoris's grandfather's work truckhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720024.jpgTea tinsThe two red boxes hold tea leaveshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720023.jpgGreenA field near Doris's grandfather's house. There were once more trees, but they were cleared.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720022.jpgFormerlyAn unkempt field, once a vegetable gardenhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/60720020.jpgDryerBetel nut trees, which I initially mistook for palm trees, behind a clothes-drying rack2014-06-24T15:54:22+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/06/07/96/2012-06-15T01:18:18+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/06/06/97/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5469-2.jpgAccept no imitations!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5446-2.jpgKnifehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5439-2.jpgSteaming hothttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5433-2.jpgFresh noodleshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5419-2.jpgDown the alleyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5417-2.jpgFamous Hsinchuhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5414-2.jpgEarly choreshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5412-2.jpgIncensehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5405-2.jpgThrown togetherhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dsc5390-2.jpgHigh class2012-06-05T16:20:59+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/06/04/94/2012-06-04T07:32:39+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/29/95/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5482-2.jpgMy doorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5480-2.jpgUp doorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5479-2.jpgOld doorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5478-2.jpgBright doorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5477-2.jpgSun doorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5476-2.jpgDirty doorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5475-2.jpgTired doorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5474-2.jpgArtistic doorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5473-2.jpgPatterned doorhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5472-2.jpgDog door2012-05-29T15:20:49+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/29/89/2012-05-29T01:42:04+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/25/93/2012-06-06T01:45:56+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/22/92/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5069-2.jpgD and JPJP, the fantastical photographer and Number One fan of Denise, and Denise, virgin triathlete no more.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1948.pngMap of TaiwanWe rode the train from Hsinchu, up to Taipei, then south along the east coast to Hualien. One way was just over four hourshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5089_2.jpgOlder womanIf you could fit, you could sit.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5088-2.jpgChristy sittingFor a long while Christy and I sat and talked. After Taipei Main Station, the train was packed for about twenty minutes. I had trouble even checking the time on my watch.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5085-2.jpgPolite signThis gave us permission to sit right next to the door... right?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5078-2.jpgEast coastThere's no mistaking the east coast and the west coast of Taiwan. The east looks like Jurassic Park. The west looks like the apocalypse came early.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5076-2.jpgThe viewI took this out the small window as the train was chugging north along the east coast.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5074-2.jpgThe train homeThe train ride back to Hsinchu. I sat on the floor next to the doors.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5071-2.jpgBeforeThis is before the race. I refused to be in pictures after.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc5068-2.jpgArm numbersThese numbers are now outlined in a sunburn on my arm. It's like a semipermanent reminder of my ego being demolished.2012-05-22T13:03:22+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/18/91/2012-05-18T03:21:56+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/17/90/2012-05-18T03:36:07+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/15/88/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1942.pngMap locationhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc0629.jpgConstructionhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc0623.jpgTemple of Gloomhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc0620.jpgSquid jellyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc0616.jpgWhen in the mountainshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc0614.jpgAnother narrow lanehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc0610.jpgNight skyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc0609.jpgColors in the darkhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc0605.jpgPoor piggyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dsc0600.jpgDeliciousness2012-05-16T01:25:05+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/11/87/2014-03-10T17:33:30+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/08/86/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_3626.jpgAll kinds of flowers.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_3623.jpgBreathing roomhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_3620.jpgEntrance to the Flower Markethttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1474.jpgTaipei 101https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1471.jpgViney flowershttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1469.jpgCutesyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1467.jpgPlaying with lighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1466.jpgMore orchidshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1465.jpgNo pictureshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/img_1462.jpgMore flowers2012-05-08T11:59:16+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/03/84/2012-05-04T03:37:29+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/05/01/85/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1884.jpgHigh Speed Railhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1877.jpgVisitor cardhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1875.jpgYvonne silhouettehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1869.jpgEspressamente illyhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1865.jpgQuiet 101https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1864.jpgVisitor consolehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1859.jpgBarbieshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1856.jpgCity Hall markethttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1854.jpgGlowinghttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1851.jpgHipstamatized2012-05-01T12:28:33+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/04/26/83/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3699-2.jpgewIn this moment, every cell in my body was rejecting what my brain was telling it to do. "Swallow... please don't throw up... just swallow... please, please don't puke in public..."https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3694-2.jpgincoming...It was about to be bad. Very, very bad.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3685-2.jpggrimaceThis was a bad decision.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3679-2.jpghere goes nothingDown the hatch!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3676-2.jpgtiny pieceDoing this before the world's apocalypse... but this could be my stomach's apocalyptic nightmare.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3674-2.jpgtofuCrispy and golden and light and... rank.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3670-2.jpgthe vatIn that boiling pot of stink is my doom.2012-04-26T11:54:21+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/04/24/82/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_18251.pngHi.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_18241.jpgHi. My name is Joe. I quit.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_18211.jpgI SAID, "...NO?"https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_18201.jpg"PUSH THIS BUTTON WITH YOUR REAR END."https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_17561.jpg"JOE, ARE YOU BUSY?!?"https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_17421.jpg"Push this button with your left hand."https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_17351.jpgI said, "No."https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_08701.jpgHE SAID,Photo courtesy Yvonnehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_07041.jpgHi.Photo courtesy Yvonnehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_06951.jpg"Push this button with your right foot."Photo courtesy Yvonne2012-04-24T23:42:51+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/04/20/81/2012-05-03T13:19:01+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/04/13/80/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1699.jpgsaintHsinchu: always under construction, even on Easter Sunday.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1697.jpgstreet entranceBlink and you'll miss it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1689.jpglunchThe pancake-looking thing is delicious, but I don't know what it's called. You'd think eating it with chopsticks would make me look less barbaric, but I proved that theory wrong.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1688.jpgchurchEveryone in attendance could've sprawled out on their own pew, and there still would've been room.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1687.jpgaltarThere are Taiwanese traditions in this Catholic church, such as this altar where people can light incense and pray for deceased relatives. (Amy, correct me if that's not actually what it is, please.)https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1685.jpgeggcitingI didn't take more than one. Had they been full of jellybeans, I would've stolen them from small children.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1682.jpgHosanna"Hosanna" means praise or pray. I think it's fascinating that "san" in Mandarin means three, an important number in the Christian religion.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1681.jpgpitchursWhen I found out there were pictures in the hymnal, I was set. How can a person be bored when there are pictures in the books?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1680.jpghymnalI want to buy this hymnal, if only for the drawings.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_1676.jpgcommunionChristian enough to be blessed with a holy water shower, but not enough for communion. That's okay. I have my own wine at home.2012-04-13T06:02:08+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/04/05/79/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_9910.jpglotsa gold dudesSeriously, they were everywhere.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_9907.jpgvogueAt least at the monastery we could pose with the gods.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/mg_9918.jpghugger'Sup guys?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/dsc4178-2.jpgchocolateThe Meiji Chocolate Factory as seen from the train between Osaka and Kyoto.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/dsc4175.jpgclose encountersYou're in a train going approximately 100kph. You pass a second train going the same direction at approximately 90kph. Do you understand how weird it is to be able to make prolonged eye contact with someone in a speeding train not two feet away from you?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/dsc4172-2.jpgside of sanjusangendoInside is a giant, 42-armed, 11-headed statue. Gotta have a lot of space for all those heads.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/dsc4166-2.jpgorangeYou could take pictures outside, however, of the orange-walled boundary. I'd never seen this shade of orange on a temple anywhere in Asia. I don't think I've seen this shade on a building ever.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/dsc4145-2.jpgvistaSaturday was rain... until we returned to the hotel, and then it was perfect weather. Sunday was clear skies and crisp temperatures.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/dsc4127.jpgjapan templeMesmerizing architecture. I kept imagining the area blanketed in snow and how peaceful it must look. Then I imagined the fight scene in Kill Bill. I kid you not.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/dsc4119_2.jpgmoatPart of the moat surrounding the temple grounds, with zero litter floating in the water. Welcome to Japan.2012-04-05T15:22:07+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/03/29/78/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/424873_402547373094717_100000183742445_1816711_292279791_n.jpgcrocodile mouthLook at that dog. She's exactly where she's supposed to be.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_8598.jpgty and nallaThey're the same age and both from Taiwan, but Ty was adopted when he was very young. Look at the difference in their sizes!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_20120222_095932.jpgsiblingsProtecting her toy from her brother. She's obviously vicious.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_20120222_095701.jpgpretty girlNalla the Wonderdog!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1482.pngx-rayHer right leg is the one that will be operated on.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1444.jpgnalla and familyOnce again being held, but this time by very happy people who will love her forever.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1436.jpgI'm here!Stretching her legs after a long flighthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1434.jpgoff to SeattleJohnny and Nalla, two of my favorite puppies at TUAPA, on their way to Seattle. I was so happy, but no one could tell for the blubbering and tears streaming down my face.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1432.jpggoodbyeLikely going through her head: "Woman, what is your problem? Why are you crying?"https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1417.jpgjohannaJohanna's a blur in person, too, because she's constantly on the go.2012-03-29T13:34:57+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/03/25/77/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1498.jpgchecking inWhen you're checking live animals as luggage, the airline treats you far differently. The scanners beeped every time my ticket was scanned, and everyone knew the puppies were mine. I also got to cut in line a lot. Not a bad gig.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1494.jpgchecking things outTwo shy sister shiba puppies. Eventually this one hopped out of her crate, only to crawl under the cart so she could "hide".https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1426.jpgnoseWHATCHA DOIN'?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1425.jpgHannah and puppyOne of the best pictures from that night - Hannah and her twin.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1424.jpgJohnny and meI was trying to get him to pose for a picture that Courtney, the passenger, who was sitting in front of me, was taking. Hannah took this picture of our massive failure.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1499.jpgtop of carrierSan Francisco, here we come!2012-03-25T14:34:06+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/03/20/76/2012-03-24T16:22:13+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/03/15/75/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1521.jpgbartender!The bartender and I may have flirted a bit, but he likely lost all interest when he saw me attack the bar food they brought out. Scotch eggs? Legendary.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_1520.jpgHoly aleMy uncle ordered this bottle. When he wasn't looking, I stole a few swigs. I recommend it.2012-03-15T02:31:05+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/03/07/74/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_8712.jpgentrance with fatherAmanda's pink gown as she entered with her father. She looked like a princess.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_8715.jpgwalking to husbandShao Fang, my coworker, took this picture of Amanda and her father walking down the aisle to Amanda's husband at the reception.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wedding-036.jpgwedding yum yumsAll for me, none for you.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wedding-035.jpgwedding magnetsWedding magnets featuring the bride and groom as a thank-you gift. I love this idea.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wedding-032.jpggold gownHere's the back of gown number three, which was gold. Gown number two was a bright fuschia. The bridesmaids wore white.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wedding-030.jpgwedding buddhaHey, Buddha, I'm not sure what wall you're jumping over, but you look like cow innards.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wedding-029.jpgshao fangMy picture of Shao Fang taking the picture above.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wedding-015.jpgour tableThe placard for our table at the reception. Apparently that's our company's name in Chinese.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wedding-014.jpgwedding menuI can't wait for the Buddha Jumped Over the Wall course!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wedding-011.jpgbig roomEmpty now, full in less than half an hour.2012-03-07T15:36:39+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/02/29/72/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4107.jpgaha's interiorThe ceiling of the pizza parlor. I love this place.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4106.jpgallenPoor guy didn't really have a choice - I made everyone put on The Glasses.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4105.jpgthe toddsterWerq it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4095.jpgwindmill mandyFrom this perspective, you can see just how incredibly muscular and strong my thighs are. That's why they look so big. https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4088.jpgchoco on signI finally ride to the destination of Hsinchu Ciowemnlnckeniut!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4085.jpgdun dun duuuun"Hey, guys, the wind is starting to pick up."https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4082.jpgdramatic windmillsWindmills are scattered throughout the south of Nanliao, and you can easily walk up to the base.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4078.jpgi love youWo ai ni too, Chocolate.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4055.jpgtree linedOkay, so this part was really pretty. I yelled, "STOPPING," much to no one's surprise, to take pictures.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dsc4051.jpgthe crewYes, there were five of us. Thanks to me being a complete ditz, I don't remember the tall guy's name. I do remember that he was nice.2012-02-29T11:31:39+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/02/22/73/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/nikon-034.jpgtwo sidesI wonder how the other side of the story goes.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/nikon-029.jpgfortImportant stuff happened here. The day we visited, there was a crowd listening to some performers sing and play instruments.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/nikon-027.jpgwater bottleWe passed an intricately carved, carefully painted, beautifully maintained temple on our way to the fort. They also decorated with hanging water bottles.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/nikon-010.jpgport TainanLook at that sky - blue. No Photoshopping required.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1238.jpgnarrow YvonneYvonne walking out the entrance while I stand by the stairs.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1237.jpgpee peeAt the top of the stairs, you can see the urinal area. If a guy needed to go number one, he'd have an audience.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1236.jpgyvonneThis is Yvonne, the same Yvonne from my Yilan trip. It wasn't cold, but both of us had our jackets after being trained by Hsinchu's miserable weather.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1231.jpggolden opiumThin slices of lemon, coffee and sugar sprinkled on top.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1228.jpgIMG_1228"Yvonne, did you see this? Golden Opium!" "Yes, and I ordered it."https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1217.jpgstacks and stacksEnglish novels - a few hundred of them! It was like finding a secret treasure that the citizens of Tainan already knew about.2012-02-22T13:14:02+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/02/16/71/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1398.jpgheck yeahI broke my own rule about buying something from one country in another country, but I couldn't help it. I love this bracelet.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1393.jpgfogAmy inspecting the gate. The fog really gave the city more personality.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1385.jpglate night streetAn unusual scene: a downtown Hsinchu street almost deserted.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1384.jpgmonkey and horseArt on an electrical box outside.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1382.jpgin repairThe first rule of Fight Club is: you do not talk about Fight Club.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1381.jpgchattingThey were closed for the night, but the door was open to let in a breeze. I stuck my head in, and they reopened just for us.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1369.jpgyellowA tribute to The Simpson's. Not really. At least, I don't think so.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1366.jpgbracesThese were the most normal of the bunch.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1362.jpgget the prenup readyWe're losers.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/img_1359.jpgcoco drinkTurning Taiwanese, I think I'm turning Taiwanese, I really think so.2012-02-19T01:51:55+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/02/10/70/2012-02-10T14:10:21+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/02/02/68/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_2999.jpgtoo coolLook at me, I'm too cool to hug Teacher or laugh at her. You're 6, Ting Ting. You can't be cool until you're at least 10.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_3003.jpgme and TimThis kid, who I actually liked a lot, was a major troublemaker. He always tried to one-up me in class. Finally, one day, I'd had enough and ordered him out of the room. He refused to leave, so I picked him up and carried him out. I win!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_3422.jpgthere's a resemblanceI asked one of my students to draw me on the board.2012-02-06T06:52:59+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/01/30/67/2012-01-31T16:11:43+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/01/22/66/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3794-2.jpgdragonThis is a handpainted dragon a street vendor painted for me. I saw it, squealed and clapped my hands like a child, and prompty bought it and 8 more paintings.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3758-2.jpgfingernailLong pinky nails no longer signify drug users. In Taiwan, they signify someone who wants a long pinky nail.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3753-2.jpgartistI told him I wanted seven dragons. Sunny translated, and he whipped up seven different designs. Each time he finished one, I loudly exclaimed, "Yes!" The silly foreigner was good for business; lots of people stopped by to see what all the commotion was about.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3747-2.jpgno thanksFish eggs. I legitimately thought they were cow tongues. After an already exciting culinary tour, I declined to try some.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3734-2.jpg_DSC3734 2One half of the market was open, the other covered. This half was hotter, darker, but they were equally loud.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3730-2.jpgshark finsOne of two stores we passed selling shark fins.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3725-2.jpgannoyanceVendors would sit or stand in the middle of the already-crowded street and herd people to their stalls. This guy moved like a prissy robot.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3724-2.jpgmother and sonThat's Sunny and Jack. Several times I caught them reach out and give each other side hugs. Sunny's the kind of mother I want to be.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3723-2.jpgbeggarA beggar in the middle of the market.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3722-2.jpglotteryIt's not uncommon to find people in wheelchairs selling lottery tickets. Some of the proceeds go to charity.2012-01-24T00:10:37+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/01/19/65/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1130.jpgmerch tableI spent a lot of money at the merch table.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1141.jpgnadineEver since I saw this picture in my Facebook feed, I've wanted to meet this puppy. I should finally meet her this Saturday!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1140.jpgjosie and meOf course Josie looked chic and statuesque, while my cold made me feel like I resembled the Abominable Snowman.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1138.jpgdinnerTUAPA is a small, dedicated organization that has hundreds of people who believe in its cause.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1137.jpgchairwomanHere she is addressing a crowd of approximately 700 people. This woman is outstanding.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1134.jpgthe jsJoey and Johanna, two of my favorite people on this island.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1133.jpgme and joTUAPA was melting my coldheartedness towards Christmas.2012-01-19T14:41:02+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/01/12/64/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1577.jpgnew bffPosing with a wooden friend.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1504.jpgartsy fartsyThere was a sign telling what this concrete thing did, but I didn't read it. I was a major cultural failure that day.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3627.jpgopen air fish sellersOn the way to the fruit museum, we passed these tables where people were selling fish. It was so random and out of place, even for Taiwan, that I had to take a picture.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3618_2.jpgyvonne and camI can't not post this picture. I think it's adorable.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3613.jpgcherry tree?Setting up fake cherry trees outside the Japanese house.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3578_2.jpgtree outsideThe Japanese house was gorgeous - surrounded by dark greens and browns.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3567_2.jpgleavesLeaves enveloping the trees outside the Japanese house.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3546.jpgpathThe path along the perimeter of the lake. It was peaceful and quiet save for the trains that passed within ten feet on the other side of the bush line.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3543.jpgshoesOne of the exhibits required visitors to take off their shoes. Since I'm lazy and didn't want to retie my running shoes, I didn't go in.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dsc3539.jpglakePeaceful save for some very angry ducks.2012-01-19T01:40:27+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2012/01/07/63-2/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1159.jpgsickoMy eyelashes kept getting stuck on the mask, but I wear it when I'm around people because I feel like I'm radiating germs.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1158.jpgMama ChocoThis is Chocolate, and this isn't the first time she's taken care of me. New Year's Day, when I was "under the weather", she let me sleep in her room so I could be closer to the bathroom.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1160.jpgcredentialsEvery time I look at this picture, I get Robert Palmer's "Bad Case of Loving You" stuck in my head.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/img_1156.jpgloaded scooterThe boxes are attached to each other with my handy dandy carabiner. Right turns were fairly impossible, but I made it back to the house without any incidents.2012-01-16T06:21:34+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/12/29/62/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3369.jpgpiggyIt's generally delicious until you find out what you're eating. After a year in Taiwan, though, I've gotten over the surprise factor and just keep eating.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_1054.jpgtwo lovebirdsNow that's true love.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_1053.jpgmoiWhen I first saw this pair, I guffawed so loudly in the small store that people turned to look. I knew they were mine before I even picked them up.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_1055.jpgwe so fineYvonne looks like a superstar next to two nerds.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3355.jpgfuture foot modelAlways fashionablehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_1428.jpgkidsCam and I are either discussing the noisy bus of Chinese tourists that just arrived or Jay-Z's new album with Kanye West.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_1050.jpgthree amigosLucky for me, Yvonne and Larry get just as excited as I do about taking stupid pictures.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3505.jpgflower lakeAbove the lake sat a large temple. As Yvonne and I wandered around taking pictures, Cameron found a new female friend and Larry napped in the car.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3440.jpgrocksI climbed some rocks on the shore, and this is what they looked like close up. It was a really unique beach.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3421.jpggorgeousClick on this picture to see it full-size. No, seriously: it's a pretty decent shot.2011-12-30T11:02:08+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/12/22/61/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3260.jpgrestaurantConveniently located next to Mick's World.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_1116.pngnorthern TaiwanHsinchu is the blue ball, Yilan is the red.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_1115.pngyilan countyIt was a scenic one-hour drive. Near Wujie the sun set, and the rest of the drive was dark.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3311.jpgthe motley crewCameron, me, Larry, Yvonne. I know: we're a good looking group.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3243-2.jpghope i don't lose itAny time we left the property, we had to take the key back to the front desk. With this keychain, I don't know how we would lose the key, but they made sure we didn't have the chance.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3240-2.jpghotel roomNotice the light switch outside the room. Whenever I went to Yvonne and Larry's room next door, instead of knocking, I turned off their lights.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3205.jpgpoor larryLarry was exhausted from driving all day. He was probably tired of Cam and me bickering like adolescent siblings all day, too.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3176.jpgmr brown coffee castleThis architecture sticks out like a sore thumb in Taiwan.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3174.jpgmbcc viewThe view from the castle grounds: you can see the Lanyang Museum near the center of the shot.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3172.jpgdoorAs we walked back to the car, I grabbed a quick shot of this building. Taiwan is incredibly colorful.2011-12-22T12:46:51+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/12/15/60/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_2569.jpgwhoaI'm wearing a Super Mario hoodie in my classroom in Taiwan. I couldn't have tied this whole post together any better if I'd planned it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc00052.jpgrandallYou're still friends with Randall after all these years. And you're still a ham if there's a camera around. Junior year of high school (1999-2000)https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/mandy-band.jpgMandy bandAh, marching band. We had a lot of fun.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc00020.jpggraduationThe first of many hugs.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/tday-03-23.jpgthanksgivingThanksgiving 2003. Life was pretty difficult, but everyone survived. And you eventually stop looking like a beady-eyed marshmallow.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/random-shots-014.jpgyoung meI'm... 10 in this picture?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/acr-004.jpgEasterThe awkward girl in the Thanksgiving 2003 picture is a statuesque blonde in 2005 or so. Yup, that's your sister. She figures out fashion and makeup a long time before you do.2011-12-18T14:17:47+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/12/01/58/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_0983.jpgmy keysTaiwan's keys are so much cooler than ones in the US.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_0920.jpgliving roomThe majority of our new living room, pre-move-in. That's why it's clean.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3037.jpgbathroomThe bathroom. This place feels like a resort.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3035.jpgthird floor foyerThe third floor foyer. Gloriously bright and breezy.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3034.jpgwindowMy view. It's actually nice and wonderfully bright. That's why I like the third floor.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3023.jpgmy roomPardon my mess. I did just move in.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3022.jpgroofThis would be our roof.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3011.jpgback viewOn our roof looking out back. In front of me is the backdoor neighbor's roof.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3010.jpgfourth floorBring it on, typhoon season.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/dsc3008.jpgthird to fourthThe stairs leading up to the fourth floor, where we have our laundry area and roof access.2011-12-15T04:49:11+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/11/24/57/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/beijing-581.jpgla di daShowing my respect.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_2388.jpgtaiwan beerI was cheersed a lot that night.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0861.jpgpolly's deskWe were going to make more loops, but the VP walked by... twice. I don't think he found the humor in, "We're increasing company morale!"https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/dsc0665.jpghappy puppyThese dogs are my therapy. When a dog looks at you like this, your problems seem trivial.2014-03-18T19:29:23+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/11/17/56/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0940.jpgvicky van goghhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0939.jpgI've eaten chicken balls, toohttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0936.jpgcompliment?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0935.jpgvroomhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0932.jpgbfe... literallyYes, I realize my globe is wildly inaccurate. Just be thankful I'm not teaching your kids.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0931.jpgmagnets are magichttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0927.jpgportraits are not my strong suitYvonne on the left, Polly on the righthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0919.jpgcircushttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0914.jpgbig boned2011-11-18T03:21:06+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/11/10/second-55/2011-12-26T05:48:20+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/11/03/55/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_7282-copy.jpgdrifting awayI took video of the lanterns, but luckily others took stills of them silently drifting away.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_1195-copy.jpgour lanternSetting it free.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_1155-copy.jpgbestest everThe fact that Larry posed for not one, but two shots, and changed his expression in each shot, is a testament to his total awesomeness.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_1147-copy.jpgwaldoCan you find me?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_1127-copy.jpgmineThis is my lens. We're nerds.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_1093-copy.jpgyvonne and meWe wore name badges to show we were with a specific tour company. As one of five foreigners I saw that day, I'm pretty sure I could've gotten away with not wearing the nametag.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_1034-copy.jpgvogueYvonne took this picture of me. The only reason I was able to pose was because her boyfriend, Larry, was carrying my bags and jacket.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/dsc02275-copy.jpgpanoramicOne of the engineers took this shot of all of us waiting to release our lanterns.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/dsc2979-copy.jpghorizonThe lanterns driften to the horizon. We all clapped, took a group picture, then headed back to Hsinchu. It was a wonderful day.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/dsc2953-copy-e1320328695279.jpgmy wishesWhere's the genie? I've got my wishes ready.2011-11-27T09:09:04+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/10/28/54/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0820.jpghooty hooPirate owls would've been pretty sweet, though. Just sayin'.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0819.jpgten owlsSee? Easy.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0818.jpgkids at workYou're doing something right... no one's crying.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0816.jpglike a samurai swordUse your Swiss army knife to cut out foam-board stencils and templates. Who needs an exacto knife when you can MacGyver your way through craft projects?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0815.jpgchubby bunnyYou've got to show a bunch of squirmy kids how to make this tomorrow. Better put your Mother Theresa hat on tomorrow, 'cause you'll need patience.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0812.jpgowl in progressThe albino sample owl.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0811-e1319801591436.jpgmagnetic somethingBased on the pictures, this has a solid chance of being magnetic. You're really just guessing.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0810-e1319801406666.jpggoogly eyes12 eyes. Plenty if your owls are cyclopses or pirates with eye patches.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0809.jpgsuppliesIt's at this moment that you realize you're in the deep end without your floaties.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0804.jpghoo hooYour adorable owl. Now figure out how to make it.2011-11-18T07:23:38+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/10/20/53/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2655.jpgmessThe glitz and glamour is gone during breakdown, when all you can see is garbage.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2652.jpgmemories!Pretty sure I owned this phone over a decade ago.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2651.jpgtime machineFlashback to when cell phones were just... phones.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2631.jpgbrilliant gamePerfect for children of winos.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2625.jpgbryan...while Bryan, a fellow Texan, won nunchucks.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2616.jpgmy prizeWe played "Shoot the balloons with the BB gun". I won two lollipops and a green tea juice box...https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2608.jpgring tossThis is one of my favorite ways to waste money. It's ring toss! Where else can you win toilet paper?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2607.jpgpantsCRACK jeans: not available in white.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2599.jpgshower headsAnyone want an adorable showerhead? The vendor also tried to sell Hannah and me toothbrush holders; each time he demonstrated how to use one, toothpaste went everywhere.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc2592.jpgewIt's not like a night market is a surprise occasion. What idiot forgot to move his car?2011-10-21T15:13:36+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/10/14/52/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0471.jpgnanmadol mtnsWhen Typhoon Nanmadol rolled past Taiwan, I took pictures of the clouds over the mountains behind Nicola's house.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0780.jpgthe doorA locked door in the middle of the second floor of Costco. Amy couldn't get out, poor thing.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0770.jpgmagic shopEverything in this picture has something to do with magic.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0765.jpgdog foodI'm thankful for TUAPA.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0625.jpgpoopMy students like to draw poop.2011-10-21T15:13:54+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/10/06/51/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0718.jpgso much funner!I'll never be able to wear this shirt in public save for on runs. It's see-through and oddly cut, but I love it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/screen-shot-2011-10-06-at-7-33-58-pm.pngroute of 10kThe markers are miles, not kilometers. The far left point where I start jogging is a 5-10 minute walk from my house. The top right marker is a 5 minute walk from my office.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0738.jpgraw spotsA raw patch under my underarm where the seam of my sportsbra rubbed me raw. My skin is angry.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0737.jpgpost 10KIt hurt, but I did it. And now I'm laying on my bedroom floor to cool off and stretch my body.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0734.jpgpooleMy Fish Camp 2004 cap, which used to be white. Yup, I've washed it, several times. Yup, I've bleached it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0732.jpgwet runYay for jogging in the rain! Even if it's acid rain.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_0720.jpgbootyAnd you deal with it so your butt can look like this!2011-10-07T12:42:16+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/09/30/50/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0713.jpg43https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0712.jpg44I know, I know. I'll get a new helmet that fits next payday... after wearing one that doesn't fit for over a year.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0706.jpg42We're in the foothills, so the view at night is pretty.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0702.jpg41You mess up in this tunnel, you die. You probably kill several others in the process. It's 30 feet of doom.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0701.jpg40Visor up at night so I can see everything 100% clearly. Until something flies into my eyes, and then I'm screwed.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0700.jpg39ZhongHua Road at the Hsinchu Train Station. Also known as traffic beehive, because all the commotion makes very little sense, but it somehow works.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0692.jpg38I look crazed because I was trying to make them laugh. They kept making Chandler Bing faces when I took their picture.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0689.jpg37Ryan, me, Ting Ting, Jessica. They do learn. Sometimes.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0686.jpg36Ryan is your typical 7-year-old boy, but he's a cool kid. We were all laughing about his fall.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0682.jpg35I have my own cubby for my house shoes. It's labeled Teacher Amanda.2011-10-03T11:51:22+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/09/25/49/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0826.jpgmuh jeansThe large maroon splotches on my jeans are from the injured dog. She started the fight, then got bitten on her ear, and her blood got all over me as I wrestled with her to get her out of the fight. She's fine, and so is the other dog.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0824.jpgwashing offA staff member washing her rain boots. We don't wear rain boots because of rain...https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0793.jpgold faceOne of the older dogs.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0786.jpgfeetJohanna giving a tour to two foreign visitors, Five the dog following her faithfully. You can always tell the visitors from the volunteers based on cleanliness and smell.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0780.jpgJohannaSmiling through a stomach ache, headache, and an exhausting morning. Johanna's worth all the praise she gets, plus some.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0770.jpggroomingThis volunteer was grooming a sedated dog. He's an angry little guy, so the vet had to knock him out so she could clip his hair.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0767.jpgsuper dude!Super Dude, who was hit by a car and needed his hind legs amputated, now races around on just his front legs. He's heading to his Forever Home in the US next month!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0749.jpgJoey observingJoey observing the volunteers in the playground, the grassy area where the dogs play. Joey takes pictures and creates videos to help promote TUAPA.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0720.jpgPumbaaI'm pretty sure Johanna called her Pumbaa. She's separated from the other dogs because she can be vicious with them, but while I had her at the end of my leash, she was a sweetheart. We even sat in the middle of a pack of dogs, and she leaned against me and relaxed.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0702.jpghappy to be outsideHanging out in the playground, but anxious for me to come inside and pay him attention.2011-09-25T09:46:11+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/09/15/47/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/photo.jpggreen screenHamming it up. We decided to buy the picture to complete our touristy experience.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0549.jpgsssssnakePhoto by Cameron. This is a snake stall. Skin it, cook it, drink its blood. Y'know. Normal stuff. Oh, and throw a Chihuahua on the table for good measure.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0544-2.jpgtoilet restaurantOn the way to Shihlin Night Market, we passed a toilet-themed restaurant. It is definitely on my Must Eat Here At Least Once List.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0535.jpgofferingsSeveral tables topped with small plates with worshipers' offerings were throughout the courtyard.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0530-2.jpgTHE SHOTThis is absolutely one of my all-time favorite pictures I've taken. Her skin, clothes and hair are flecked with wax. She gently and quietly tended to the candles.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0528-2.jpgprayer bookEveryone sang from these little books.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0520-2.jpgcrazy hairI'm sensing a trend here.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0510-2.jpgteeny tiny taxisThanks to the holiday, Taipei was incredibly quiet. Normally these streets would be teeming with traffic.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0487_2.jpgme and taipei 101I'm 5'7". Taipei 101 is 1,670 feet tall.2011-09-28T12:10:52+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/09/08/46/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0400.jpghairGood thing I fixed my hair.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0399.jpgfrom the convention centerThis was the view from the deck of the convention center. Grouse Mountain is to the right.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_0387.jpgfrom le planeThis is why I always get a window seat. I could be surrounded by teething children and a smelly obese man, but as long as I have my window, I'm happy.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0403-2.jpgzipline crewOur ziplining crew. They were awesome.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0368.jpggrouse mtn viewWe couldn't have had better weather if we'd ordered it off a menu.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0348.jpgblue fishPinstripes are always fashionable.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/dsc0342.jpgfish worms?I don't even understand what I'm looking at.2011-09-28T12:09:37+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/09/01/45/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0365.jpgpoloDriving from Dallas to College Station, Polo the pup on my lap. He's not depressed, just sleepy. My lap is comfy.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0355.jpgkid and sisterThis is the third attempt because I kept giggling and ruining the shot. I ruined this one, too.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0353.jpgfashionOne of several fashionable options available at a Dallas Kohl's. Good work on that one.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0346.jpgthin lipsMy Kate Middleton smile.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0332.jpgpedicureA spa pedicure and wrap in Dallas. One before I left for Taiwan, one nearly a year later. My poor feet deserve it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0329.jpgkidYeah, she's gorgeous. Kinda makes you angry, doesn't it?2011-09-01T16:01:44+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/08/25/44/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0361.jpgTX skiesRoom enough for all your ruminations. Unless you're a Russell, in which you still think too much and should probably be sedated.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0354.jpgseestersMom: "What are you girls doing?" Me: "Trying on hats and taking pictures." Mom: "Oh, dear."https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0323.jpgSM PierBehind us was a woman with a mic and an amp screeching along to Rihanna's latest single. Immediately after taking pictures, we escaped her noise.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0315.jpgarcadeAs it turns out, I'm not very good at any of the games pictured here.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0300.jpgwilternGorgeous venue, great show, and I met an actor. I don't remember his name, but he was a cool guy.2011-08-26T02:05:19+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/08/18/43/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_3552.jpgmessI was moving out of the apartment three days after my return, so I was packing for a month-long trip and a move. My room was chaotic.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0283.jpgafter...AFTER, about to land at LAX. At this moment I'm sleepy, overloaded with excitement, and on the verge of happy tears.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0282.jpgyummy foodAirline food in Business Class goes a little beyond little bags of pretzels.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0272.jpgheck yesUpgrade to Business Class for the flight across the Pacific. Slippers, a cardigan, a menu, a fully reclining chair, two windows - this is the life.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0268.jpgbidetAt the Narita Airport I used a bidet toilet for the first time in my life. It was quite the experience.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0263.jpgle planeThat's my plane.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0254.jpgbeforeHipstamatic picture of me on the plane at Narita Airport. This would be BEFORE...https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0248.jpgmonkey backpackMy backpack. The monkey serves as my pillow on flights and as a magnet for kids to yell, "MONKEY!" as I walk past them.2011-09-08T04:07:47+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/08/12/42/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0433.jpgcubePolly on the left, Yvonne on the right, my shiny forehead in the foreground.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0431-e1313146988283.jpgmemoeyJob security.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0414.jpgphonesI have yet to meet Shrek.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0413.jpgkeyboardI could type in Chinese. Like that's ever going to happen.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0412.jpgcalendar!Look! Freebie calendars with my Wholly Unflattering Mugshot!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0411.jpgpassport photoFor my ID, the photographer told me I couldn't smile and made me push my hair behind my ears. I couldn't NOT smile, so I smirked. This is the least-flattering ID photo I've ever taken, and that includes my orange face in my UT ID photo.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/img_0410-e1313146908827.jpgoh dearThe first eight people to request one of these photos will get it in the mail. These are collector's items, folks.2011-08-18T02:15:42+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/08/05/41/2011-10-03T02:34:59+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/03/13/23/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9458.jpgLarisaLarisahttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/11.jpghello, pupThe first face to greet me when I got out of the car.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/10.jpgRiverdancerWhen I gave her butt rubs, she moved her back legs like a Riverdancer.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/9.jpgroad leading to TUAPAThe road leading up to TUAPA. Off camera to the right are five parking spaces.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/8.jpgooohOoooh, that's the spot!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/7.jpghappy puppyI'm having a happy moment with this puppy.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/6.jpgsoul mateMy dog soul matehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/5.jpgloveLove.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/4.jpgRachelRachel sharing a quiet momenthttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/3.jpgTheaThea. She's laying under Nicola, who's sitting on a small stool.2011-08-04T10:31:37+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/03/07/21/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-881.jpgcute streetYou should've seen all the people taking pictures with fancy equipment. I played it cool.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-876.jpghutongs 1Narrow as a hallway. If I had tried walking through, I probably would've gotten lost.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-868.jpgOP statueI really, really wanted to pose in a picture with this statue. Out of respect for Shannon, I didn't.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-862.jpgOlympic ParkThe pool complex looked like it was wrapped in bubble wrap. Cool!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-861.jpgin front of the nestHamming it up in front of the Bird's Nest Stadium, or whatever it was called.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-142.jpghutongs 2Looks inviting.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-118.jpgmenuThe drink menu was separate. I'm not kidding.2011-07-17T23:12:59+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/11/11/10/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_2280.jpgkid with markerSkill level: beginner2011-07-17T23:12:37+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/10/27/9/2011-07-17T23:11:15+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/10/16/8/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_7854.jpgdinnerChicken with pesto and garlic butter2011-07-17T23:11:06+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/10/11/7/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_2568.jpgVincent#2 kid.2011-07-17T23:10:54+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/10/05/6/2011-07-17T23:10:38+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/09/28/5/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_7652.jpgus at NanliaoAmanda, me and Hannah at the beach at sunsethttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_7555.jpgsunsetThe sunset at Nanliaohttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_7491.jpgangry godI'm not laughing at you... I'm laughing wi... no. Not with. At. Definitely at.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_7467.jpgtempleMy favorite templehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_7413.jpgEast GateApproaching the traffic circle around East Gatehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/mg_7407.jpgdeityA statue of a deity in one of the temples2011-07-17T23:10:22+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/09/17/4/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_2171.jpgsheet aislePart of the sheet aisle at RT Mart2011-07-17T23:10:14+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/09/12/3/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/mg_7862.jpg18 peaks18 Peaks staircase2011-07-17T23:10:04+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/09/02/2/2011-07-17T23:09:45+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/08/30/1/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_2031.jpggateThe parking lot where I learned to drive a scooterhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_2019.jpgflightFlying from LA to Beijing2011-07-17T23:09:34+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/11/21/11/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_2472.jpgscrew in tireBastard.2011-07-17T23:09:13+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/03/01/20/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-856.jpgGW from afarWay up there is the Wall. You can't see it from space; you can barely see it from the road.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-851.jpgGW 9Not a bungee jumping site, just another set of stairs.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-847.jpgtimed pictureCam and Kevin went further, to tower 22. I stopped to take it all in. And take pictures of myself.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-836.jpgbeyond 20Most people didn't go past tower 20, so it was peaceful. That's when it really sunk in: I'm on the Great Wall of China.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-813.jpgno go zoneWe weren't supposed to pass this point, but Cam, Kevin and I did. Those are stairs on the left.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-806.jpgGW 13I did it! Take my picture!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-804.jpgGW 11I just climbed a hecka-buncha stairs, and now I have to go up there?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-800.jpgGW 8The stairs were varying heights and widths, but they always seemed to rise at a 45 degree angle.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-789.jpgGW 10The final push - over 400 stairs to tower 20. You have to look at every step to keep from tripping.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/beijing-779.jpgGW 7It was so steep at times that it seemed to just drop off. It threw your depth perception for a loop.2011-07-17T23:08:55+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/02/27/19/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-585.jpggroup shot at TSPosing it up in Tian'anmen Square at duskhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-535.jpgFC bignessThe emporer needed this much room to house his ego.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-498.jpginside FCSome huge building only the emporer could use for something super important, like brushing his hair.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-479.jpganother FC walkwayLost? Take a right at the red wall with the painted doorway. They're all like that? You're screwed.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-463.jpgFC carved detailsDetails on one of the pillars outside a concubine's building. Fancy!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-461.jpgFC walkwayA walkway between some of the buildings on the outer rim of the cityhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-434.jpgFC detailsDetails on the windows. Screw the people, give me ornate window pulls!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-413.jpgS and me in FCJust inside the inner entrance to the FChttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-400.jpgFC wallAn inner wall in the Forbidden City. The emporers didn't joke around when they built this place.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-394.jpgmoat6 meters deep, 52 meters wide, perhaps full of ravenous dragons2011-07-17T23:08:43+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/02/21/18-2/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-378.jpgwindow detailsEurope has stained glass windows, Asia has intricate architectural details. No fun windows, though.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-376.jpgbrickworkThe brickwork at the base of the temple.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-369.jpgTOHP walkingFrom the entrance to the temple is a 5-10 minute walk. That's not the temple, it's just another ornate thing in the middle of the park.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-364.jpgTOHP entranceLike everything else in Beijing, this park was bigger than we anticipated.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-337.jpgview of FCAll those buildings in the background are a part of The Forbidden City.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-329.jpgJP stairsScrew you, Stairmaster. You've got nothing on Beijing.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-328.jpgJingshan ParkThe view of the park from just inside the front entrance.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-323.jpgred doorBeijing is full of fun architecture.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-37.jpgmore hackysackMore fun, this time with Will, Cam, Kevin and Liam (l-r)https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-33.jpghackysack 1Some people pray at temples. Will plays feather-sack.2011-07-17T23:08:28+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/02/11/17/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-307.jpgDelicious!The snozberries taste like snozberries... or something.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-298.jpgBignessBeijing is big. Really, really big.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-263.jpgSP paint jobI liked that the buildings hadn't been repainted. It felt more historically accurate.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-221.jpgcrumblingOnly a few areas were off limits.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-198.jpgme at Summer PalaceBeyond the cement where I'm standing is a steep drop.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-173.jpgfrozen boatsThis place would be crawling with tourists during the summer.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-170.jpgbridgeBridge over frozen water. Isn't that a song?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-18.jpgmarketIf it was once alive and you can poke a skewer into it, you'll find it here!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-13.jpgThe ArtistMy version of art is taking pictures of her version of art.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/beijing-5.jpgwhee!I liked that there were no doors between the subway cars. No one else found it as fascinating.2011-07-17T23:08:17+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/02/06/16/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/img_3144.jpgNoodlesStupid picture makes me want some right now.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/img_3127.jpgForbidden City HostelHome Sweet Hostelhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/img_3110.jpgBeijing artistFirst he drew Shannon, then me. My hat is completely unflattering, apparently.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/img_3102.jpgBeijing airportThey let us in! Suckers.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/mg_9068.jpgMirror and bedFor two fairly tall girls, the bed wasn't bad.2011-07-17T23:08:05+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/11/28/12/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_8049.jpgbeansThe green bean casserole undercooking in the ovenhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_8046.jpgapple crispVoila: apple crisp2011-07-17T23:07:54+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2010/12/12/13/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_2145.jpgThe HillPictures can't do the view justicehttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/mg_7320.jpgscootersNear the top, the red scooter is mine.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_2467.jpgschool parkingWe decorate the scooter parking area with rusty nails and screws2011-07-17T23:07:40+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/01/06/14/2011-07-17T23:07:26+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/01/23/15/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_3028.jpgMs. LeeMs. Lee killed it at Bingo, which was actually a highly competitive shouting match that left everyone giggling.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_3004.jpgSunnyA picture of Sunny taken by one of my kidshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_8140.jpgflowerThe traditional calligraphy brush makes stupid doodles look artistic and elegant.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img_8132.jpgChinese writingWriting in Chinese is hard.2011-07-17T23:07:13+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/03/11/22/2011-07-17T23:05:50+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/03/20/24/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9581.jpgscootingHypocrite.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9568.jpgmore masksSo many options. This is a quarter of a rack at one store alone.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9567.jpgmasksI could've sworn that mask on the far right was yellow. I even bought it for my mom, whose favorite color is yellow. What is my problem?2011-07-17T23:05:24+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/03/27/25/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9721.jpgfeet vs tubThe tub walls begin where the outer edges of my feet are. And that's what clubbed, flat feet look like. Cute, right?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9720.jpgflooded floorThe water's so deep, my camera focused on the perfect reflection of our bathroom light. I'm standing by the toilet.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9718.jpgflooding again...it still floods.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9717.jpgfloor drainThe Bellagio fountains of Taiwanhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9715.jpgdraining tubEven with the tub stopped 95% during a shower...https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9714.jpgdrainsFocused incorrectly, but you get the gist. Two drains.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9712.jpgshowerheadThe best angle I could get. I know it doesn't look bad. Take my word for it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9711.jpgshower hoseSo easy, a caveman could use it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9709.jpgtoilet paperPre-cut squares are sometimes helpful, sometimes annoying.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/img_9708.jpghome sweet bathroomOur shower curtain is actually window curtains.2011-07-17T23:05:10+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/04/07/26/2011-07-17T23:04:56+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/04/16/27/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-873.jpgBeijing 873https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-846.jpgBeijing 846https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-826.jpgBeijing 826https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-799.jpgBeijing 799https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-786.jpgBeijing 786https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-778.jpgBeijing 778https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-750.jpgBeijing 750https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-720.jpgBeijing 720https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-709.jpgBeijing 709https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/beijing-708.jpgBeijing 7082011-07-17T23:04:37+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/04/20/28/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_2914.jpgdaily notesThis is my Teacher Book. I write just about anything in it. The other day I wrote, "Jean called me fat" and drew a mad face. Totally relevant to my lesson plans, I know.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_2660.jpgteachurSome days grading is a breeze. Other days, I earn every dollar of my pay.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_2537.jpgEthan durpOne of my smartest students, but makes the most confounding mistakes.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_3333.jpgEthan's MWhat was going through his head when he managed that work of art?2011-07-17T23:04:17+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/04/28/29/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/chinese.pngtonesThere's another tone, indicated by a large dot. I still don't know exactly how to pronounce it.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_3353.jpgspellingTo the right of the Chinese character you can see the Bopomofo showing how to pronounce the character. The dashes are the tones.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_3352.jpgbopomofo posterMy bopomofo poster - I wrote how to pronounce each letter. The different colors indicate different groups.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_3351.jpgbook notesPinyin gives you a basic idea of how to pronounce the word, just like, "It's about God," gives you a basic idea of what the Bible is about.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_3350.jpgpictures from bookThe drawings in my book are creepy.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_3348.jpgwriting practiceWriting the same word over and over. I actually really enjoy writing in Chinese. It appeals to my anal retentive nature.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_3339.jpgnotesWhen I'm writing in my notebook, Sunny watches. If she grunts, I've written the character wrong. She grunts a lot. She can read Chinese upside down, which I think is a form of magic.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_3338.jpgbook and notesMy book and notes that I take during Sunny's tutoring lesson. Eschewing bopomofo and just memorizing stuff is a lot easier. Sunny lets me; Ms. Lee doesn't.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/img_3337.jpgwhiteboardSunny is an awesome teacher, and the proof is that I can understand everything on the board.2011-07-17T23:04:05+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/05/05/30/2011-07-17T23:02:47+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/05/12/31/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9707.jpggasWe left for Hsinchu late and were scooting in the dark. Hannah's gas level was so low that she killed the engine on downhills. After a few quick prayers and some excellent maneuvering on Hannah's part, we made it to a gas station and back to Hsinchu.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9705.jpglavenderThere were flowers, plants, trees and herbs growing all around the grounds in manicured gardens.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9660.jpgLavender CottageAfter climbing steep hills, we made it to Lavendar Cottage, a sprawling estate with a huge restaurant at the top of the hill.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9655.jpglavender closeupAfter we ate, we wandered through the gardens. They had bluebonnets, which prompted a quick celebratory jig on my part.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9615.jpgsaladLunchtime! It was a four course meal, all aspects of which included lavender seasoning. Even my seafood soup had some in it. Those chefs know what they're doing.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9592.jpgpopcornWe snacked on lavender popcorn. Had I been alone, I probably would've tipped the contents of the bag into my mouth. It was delicious.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9590.jpgviewWhile we waited for a table, we wandered around a bit, finally taking up residence on two reclining chairs outside.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9575.jpgcity scootingWe scooted for 1.5 hours into the mountains, Hannah at the helm. One minute we're surrounded by signs and traffic. The next, greenery.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/mg_9674.jpglots of prayersThe majority were written in Chinese, but a few were in English. Lavender Cottage is a peaceful, meditative place, save for the handful of children barreling around and giggling.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/mg_9670.jpgmy prayerOf all the times to write something wrong, I did so on my prayer leaf. Story of my life.2011-07-17T23:02:35+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/05/20/32/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_2269.jpgDenise and meIn October 2010, before I decided that Hi Chew candies were my best friends.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9664.jpgwith the teddy bearFluffy like a giant teddy bear, and just as fun to hug! I didn't ever want this picture to see the light of day, or the internet, but this is a good example of a day when I felt extra pudgy.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_9837.jpgHK AustinGood hair day, marshmallow face. This picture should be featured on a milk carton: Missing: Mandy's cheekboneshttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/img_0060.jpgJake's viewThis would be what Jake saw that morning. Not too terrifying.2011-07-17T23:02:14+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/05/27/33-2/2011-07-17T23:01:58+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/06/05/34/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/sandys-pictures-221.jpgSandy me ChristianaMy friend Sandy and me with my Dominican Republic host mom, Christiana. She spoke no English, and the first week was hard, but we forged a strong friendship over five weeks.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/sandys-pictures-213.jpgClaritza me ElisabetTwo women from the Dominican Republic that taught me more about life than any Chicken Soup book.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/july-16-mt-rainier-053.jpgJuly 16 Mt Rainier 053Mt. Rainier 2006: still friends with Sean, lost touch with Krishna, don't remember the other guy's name.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/beijing-586.jpgbacklitRelationships come and go, but memories and backed-up digital pictures are forever.2011-07-17T23:01:40+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/06/12/35/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/route.pngrouteThis route is why my thighs and calves are practically useless today.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_01585.jpghairLots of chest hair on display. Some men even showcased a thick forest of back hair.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0172.jpgTaiwanese SantaThe old guy on the left was awesome. He danced harder than anyone else there - it was like he was possessed by the music. Not just any music: Metallica and Michael Jackson covers.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0168.jpgshoesI was muddier - this was after I stopped in a stream to get most of the mud off my shoes and hands. So what you can't see is that my shoes are soaked.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0165.jpgmy backSweat and mud and biker shorts.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0163.jpgview 2The view somewhere between kilometers four and five.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0159.jpgview 1It really was beautiful.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0157.jpgwarming upWhile everyone else warmed up, Denise and I did the M.C. Hammer shuffle. It made sense at the time.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0148.jpgdenise and meOn the bus ride to the AIR. We had no idea what we'd gotten ourselves into.2011-07-17T23:01:25+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/06/17/36/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_3389.jpggameA fishing game I bought for my students. I was completely sold when I read that it was dilly.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_3360.jpgmothdayHappy Mothday Day!https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0136.jpgmurseIn Taichung, at the slow train station, a Taiwanese man patiently waits for his order while carrying, in my modest opinion, shoulder luggage. What on earth is in that bag?https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0132.jpgpoohWhen I'm wearing hose, heels, professional office wear and have my hair perfectly coiffed and my makeup neat and ladylike, I, too, like to roll a pink Winnie the Pooh suitcase aroundhttps://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0128.jpgaaahThe following Tuesday morning, 7:20am, train station platform.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0105.jpgcough coughSaturday morning, 7:50am, train station platform2011-07-17T23:01:02+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/06/23/37/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_3428.jpgfionaDuring Wednesday's recess, I saw a mosquito tangled in Fiona's eyelashes. "Fiona! Get it!" I yelled. It was too late.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_3426.jpgjeanThis is Jean. During our 15-minute recess on Wednesday, she was bitten by mosquitos a dozen times. Huge red welts covered her arms, legs, and this spot between her eyes.2011-07-17T23:00:42+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/06/30/38/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_9723.jpgcheese pesto chickenIt wasn't the tastiest solution, but it saved dinner.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_9722.jpgpesto chickenIt looks decent, but my pesto chicken was a bit of a failure.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0122.jpgnoodlesAt the bottom of this bowl is a spicy ground beef concoction. These noodles are almost as delicious as the ones I ate in Beijing.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/img_0119.jpgdumplingsAt the restaurant that serves these dumplings, I'm a regular. I think they're filled with pork.2011-07-17T23:00:20+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/07/07/39/2011-08-05T22:50:20+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/2011/07/14/40/https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0289.jpgbikes and scootersParking spaces just mean the area can be used for parking; it's not one vehicle per space, it's "if it fits, it can park".https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0270.jpgbw roofsZoning laws? My apartment building is next to a "happy endings" massage parlor.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0250.jpgbw graffitiI'm just waiting for Banksy's arrival.https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0248.jpgtruck and shackThis sits amid the hustle and bustle of downtown Hsinchu. "Hey, honey, where are the thirty chairs I bought yesterday?"https://icollectmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/img_0215.jpgsignsIt's all Greek to me.2011-07-17T22:56:47+00:00monthlyhttps://icollectmaps.com/how-to/2012-11-18T03:34:22+00:00weekly0.6https://icollectmaps.comdaily1.02020-07-10T19:03:12+00:00