BirdsAdvnturs

Newest Adventure!

2011-12-07T18:50:00.000-08:00

Come on!!!

2011-08-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

Playin at USNWC!

2011-08-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

Camp LUCK on News 14!!

2011-05-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

http://charlotte.news14.com/content/top_stories/641336/camp-reaches-out-to-those-with-heart-problems

Check it!

2011-04-20T05:38:00.000-07:00

I agree to respect myself for what I am. With self-respect, the self-judgment ends, and the self-rejection ends, too. With self-respect, my self-love grows stronger every day. -Don Miguel Ruiz

2011-04-05T05:41:00.000-07:00

Camp LUCK Family Camp is right around the corner! We have 24 families totaling 105 people along with over 35 volunteers that will be participating in this Awesome weekend! Check out the new logo and visit us at www.campLUCK.blogspot.com and www.facebook.com/campluck.

Warrior Dash

2011-03-22T17:37:00.000-07:00

Some Zulu Warriors invaded the Warrior Dash in Houston Texas last weekend! Good times.

Why is it so hard to lose the last 10 pounds?

2011-03-03T15:26:00.000-08:00

Why is it so hard to lose the last 10 pounds?

Vail Good Times

2011-03-01T07:41:00.000-08:00

ART SOCIAL

2011-02-17T15:46:00.000-08:00

You are invited to join me for an Art Social next Friday, February 25th in Greenville, SC. Please let me know if you want to come so I can make appropriate arrangements with beverages. Feel free to invite some friends and let me know if you have any questions. Thanks, Bird

Live Love Festival to Benefit Camp LUCK

2011-02-17T15:36:00.001-08:00

Check out www.bellalovecharlotte.com

This unique cultural festival will be held Saturday, February 19th and will benefit Camp LUCK!

2011-01-11T08:15:00.000-08:00

2011

Whats in store for 2011?? Maybe just the best year of my life!...and yours too! A few of my resolutions and on-going missions for this year :

-Get certified as ACE Lifestyle and Weight Management Coach

-Postively Impact someone EVERY day!

-Focus on Family

-Complete Tough Mudder in April

-Complete 2 other adventure races

-Add 8 pounds of lean muscle

-Take care of my body and mind and be in best shape of my life!

-Take MuzzleJab to new levels on a national scene

-Incorporate Camp Luck and continue developing

-Cook at Camp Cherokee

-Do more coaching/training of kids

-Be featured artist in 2 shows

-Rock climb more

-Smile EVERYDAY!

-Read 2 books

-Be on time

-Practice the FOUR AGREEMENTS by Don Miguel Ruiz

-Write and publish a magazine article

2011 New Years Resolutions: #1 Do Something About It

2010-12-26T13:51:00.000-08:00

Alrighty! Here we are... coming to a close of 2010 with excitement of what lies ahead in 2011! Did we achieve our goals? Did we empower ourselves?

One thing we can definitely control is the way we feel about ourselves. Through mental and physical exercise, we can attain the individual we know and expect to be. We owe it to ourselves to take care of our one body and our one mind that we have. We deserve to feel great!
What's stopping you? NOTHING! Now, make that commitment and let's get busy with our personal plan to achieve this!

Also, feel better about yourself by assisting others as well. Encourage each other (family, friends, kids, parents) to be the best they can and to push themselves to become/stay healthy!

Keep it rolling...one day at a time! Thanks. -JBird

muzzleJab Benefit

2010-11-07T17:57:00.000-08:00

On November 13th, muzzleJab will host a Benefit for the K Rile Fund. The K Rile Fund was established for Keith Rile, a secret service agent that was recently diagnosed with Non Smokers Lung Cancer. We will also be releasing our Winter line and launching the brand new website!

Tricky Hoedown was a HUGE success!

2010-09-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

Tricky Hoedown was a HUGE success!

We raised thousands of dollars for cancer research

at the event boasting bands, food, drinks, silent auction,

dancing and loads of good times.

Pimp My Pumpkin Contest

2010-09-15T08:05:00.000-07:00

“KISS Cancer Goodbye”

Rockin Roll All Night in the name of breast cancer. Peter (“Cat”) Criss, original KISS

drummer is a breast cancer survivor! Since October is ofﬁcially Breast Cancer

Awareness Month, Peter wants to go a step further and make everyone aware that males can get breast cancer too! So grab your facepaint and your platform shoes, and join The Cat in bringing awareness for both men and women ﬁghting this disease and help to KISS cancer goodbye!

Jay (Bird) Thompson

www.birdllc.com

Tha QC

2010-08-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

“You're only getting old when you find that your regrets are taking the place of your dreams.”

– John Barrymore

muzzleJab

2010-06-24T03:39:00.000-07:00

muzzleJab summer launch party! July 10th at Lounge 201 in DC. For those that don't know, muzzleJab is a clothing company that was created to raise money to help individuals battling cancer. Check us out at www.muzzlejab.com. Do it!

New Zealand Art Exhibition

2010-06-13T21:43:00.000-07:00

Click on video for slideshow of art exhibition

Just putting a plug about my art exhibition at the GreenRice Gallery in NODA in Charlotte for the month of July. I will be the featured artist and the show will consist of artwork inspired from my recent 7

month trip to

New Zealand. Let me know if you would like a postcard or have any questions. Thanks!

Opening Artist Reception:

Friday, July 2nd

6-9 pm

Camp LuCK video - WATCH!

2010-06-13T21:36:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtX4rsGz5Gs

Camp LuCK

2010-05-25T05:31:00.000-07:00

Camp LuCK

This past weekend was unbelievable! Camp LuCK, a camp for kids with heart disease, held it's inaugural family camp! Along with Rene' Herlong and reps from the Levine Cardiac Kids (Kim Jackson, Lisa McKenzie and Julia Davenport), we planned, organized and implemented this great experience! We hosted 21 families (88 total people) at Camp Cherokee and witnessed positive transformations of these kids as well as the parents! The staff of volunteers was comprised of past Camp Cherokee All Stars and several friends... and they ROCKED it!

I can already say that I can't wait for next year!

Well, well, well...

2010-04-27T04:58:00.000-07:00

They say all good things must come to an end...Damn!

I am officially back on US soil... Bittersweet I would say as my adventures in NZ/Aus have been unbelievable. But it's good to be back nonetheless to see family and friends and create some fun experiences here. The last week in Aus boasted an array of events including a Sydney Swans AFL match (legit) and officially surfing some waves(legit)!! That's right, I caught my first waves and was PUMPED! I can see how that mysterious drive to catch the next big one swells inside all surfers. I want to be in the 'green room'..in tha tube! What a feeling that must be.

So here I am back in the Queen City and reflecting on the past 7 months...the friendships, the laughter, the adrenaline nervousness, the gorgeous countryside and landscapes, the incredible people watching, the work experiences, the conversations, and the list goes on and on. Thanks to all those wonderful worldly individuals that made my experience a Killer one!!

What's next?? Well the blog 'ain't' over just because I am not traveling. I am always looking and searching and seeking for adventures...that's the only way to be! Currently I am working on 3 projects:

-developing and directing Camp LuCK, a camp for kids with heart disease (may 21-23, 2010)

-Art Exhibition"New Zealand Experience" as the featured artist in the Green Rice Gallery in Charlotte (month of July, artist reception Friday July 2)

-Aggressive Launching of MuzzleJab Clothing Company, a clothing line that benefits cancer research

So I am excited to be back and indulge in life via other adventures. Stay tuned and keep in touch! And remember... "Twenty years from now, you'll be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bow lines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."

Sweet As!

Mr. Cookie

2010-04-08T19:08:00.001-07:00

Probably one of the most exciting yet insignificant persons we indulge in... he gives us hope without any tangible reasoning... but nonetheless, isn't that what life is about... the positive potential... the hope you contain in yourself and in others.

I speak of Mr. Cookie! Everyone knows Mr. Cookie! He gives us inspiration in an outer shell. Don't we all search constantly for that motivation wrapped up in a tasty treat... whether it's via another person, a material thing, or a concept? Yes, the most simple thing can help guide us into this "positive potential." This is the power of attitude! Attitude is the way you mentally look at the world around you. It is how you view your environment and your future. It is the focus you develop toward life itself.

Another avenue that also applies in addition to the seriousness of this, is the side of humor. The funny take of it is the attachment you can add to the saying... put the words "in bed" at the end. For example, my latest fortune was ... 'Versatility is one of your outstanding traits...in bed!' HA! Last night we were sitting at the dinner table and passed out the treats for everyone to be enlightened. It was funny watching Tish's dad and his girlfriend add "in bed" at the end of theirs while Tish is sitting there and vice versa...Tish and her fiance' Ron had to add "in bed" to their sayings. It was such a great moment.

So whether you believe in them or not, attitude and simple revelations can entirely swing your persona and life! It can give you what you need... hope and laughter.

His sur name is Cookie... his first name is Fortune. He rules!

2010-04-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

people watching

2010-04-03T15:52:00.000-07:00

Fascination!! Random... Hilarious... Crazy... Eccentric... Smooth... Unpredictable... Beautiful... Not so much... Are you serious?

I have a secret fascination...I am an Official unofficial Anthropologist! Besides eating good food, studying people has to be my favorite hobby! I like it so much that I actually enjoy a four hour layover at an airport! Ahhh, people watching brings such a joy to my inner soul... looking, watching, observing various mannerisms and styles and walks. So exciting to indulge in this art.

We have been at the Blues and Roots Festival here in Byron Bay Australia for the past few days. The music has been phenomenal with talented musicians like John Butler Trio, Gypsy Kings, Jack Johnson, Donovan Frankenreiter, Fat Freddy's Drop, and my new fav Ozomatli. But the people watching has been equally enjoyable! Thousands and thousands of individuals dancing to a beat of a different drummer. Actions, sayings, colors, what they have on and what they dont have on, matching schemes, old school styles, futuristics, things I have never seen, characteristics, personalities and the list goes on.

It's absolutely fascinating! I invite you to take a minute next time you are waiting somewhere... and instead of being impatient and getting frustrated with whatever you are waiting on... take that opportunity to play the people watching game. Only one rule with this game...No judgements... just fun observations.

You will be surprised at the enjoyment you can have. Sweet as!

'Straalia

2010-03-26T05:11:00.000-07:00

Meeting up with old friends is such a Gem! The past few days have been filled with reminiscing, laughter, great meals and new memories. Ron and Tish, my 2 Aussie mates...whom I met 5 years ago in Italy, stayed with in Aus 3 years ago, and then had them visit me for Christmas last year...have been hosting me. Good times! Yet another reminder on this trip of the genuine people that you meet all over the world. Today we enjoyed a beautiful 35 degrees C (about 83 F) day at Shelly Beach, just outside of Sydney. Then had a big barbie (cookout) and enjoyed the balmy summer evening.

2010-03-20T01:08:00.000-07:00

Welp, here I am sitting underneath a Pohutukawa tree on the deck of Charlie Farley's after my last shift...having a TAB (Tasty Adult Beverage) and reflecting on the past 8 weeks working here. What a slice of paradise! Warm, sunny, genuine people, interesting convos, gorgeous scenery, and a comfortable feeling. I have had many thoughts, transactions, actions, adventures, discussions, visualizations and revelations. Many have been expressed here on the blog. There will also be many more to come along with over 40 pieces of artwork to try to capture these 6 months.. I have thoroughly enjoyed my stint here and what a fantastic way to close out my time in New Zealand. Yep, only 2 days left. I travel to Australia for three weeks to visit my mates Ron and Tish and then it's back Stateside.

While I am looking forward to my return to see family and friends...I will also enjoy these last few weeks and soak up each moment. For traveling always helps to put things in perspective and enlightens our mind and souls. Sweet as.

2010-03-17T04:07:00.000-07:00

OK SERIOUSLY??

2010-03-10T16:21:00.000-08:00

The following is my journal entry on the first day of my stay at Great Barrier Island. Enjoy:

Ok, Seriously! I mean com'on! Are you REALLY serious?! For real? The answer is 'yes' for $200 Alex.

I am sitting in a hammock right now overlooking one of the most incredible places on earth! The Medlands at Great Barrier Island. My mate Mark has a batch here and it is nestled in a cove with sea stacks, sheer cliffs, a horseshoe beach with crashing waves, heaps of trees and tall grass, the South Pacific Ocean in the distance, clouds changing by the second, colors vivid, air clean, blue waters, white caps, old fences, fresh fish, rocky crags...and the list goes on and on.

I mean seriously?! This morning at 6:30 we ventured out to go fishing. The clouds were bright pink faded to yellow, air crisp and cool, waves rolling, got the bait ready and push off in our 10 foot john-boats... pass through shark alley and around the rocky corner.... WOW! A dramatic cliff with the crashing waves producing bright white foam against the rock hues of deep olives, reds, oranges and golds. Above it, the full moon still illuminating and fading into the horizon while the sun emerges on the direct opposite. Ahhh, the smell of the ocean, the banter with good mates and the anticipation of an adventure.

With a few minutes of attaching our bait to our rods...out they go only seconds to have a few nibbles! Mark hauls in a Trevelli and I crank in a small snapper! Seriously? Could it get much better than this?... No worries, catching lunch and dinner, at peace with Mother Earth.

There's another one...and another one...and a big 12 pounder!! We were fishermen! And it was Awesome! About an hour rolled by...12 fish, a beautiful sky, time to head in.

So, here I am sitting in a hammock overlooking one of the most tranquil places on earth... Belly full from smoked and pan-seared snapper, satisfied from the morning adventure and absolutely loving life!

2010-03-06T22:18:00.001-08:00

GBI here we come!

2010-02-27T14:23:00.000-08:00

Kia Ora! Just a quick update...

GK made it here yesterday morning and we are heading to Great Barrier Island tomorrow! Staying with a Kiwi mate who has a batch over there. We will be Surfing/Kayaking/Fishing/Tramping/Solving-the-world's-problems/etc. Should be Choice. We were supposed to have the Onetangi Beach Races today which consists of many various activities: Boat races, relay races, tractor races, tug-o-war, heaps of socializing and tons more....but they were postponed due to the threat of the possible tsunami from the earthquakes in Chile'. Nothing happened here but I do feel sympathy for those damaged by this 8.8 scale disaster.

This reminds me of the ole thought for the day I use to share at camp... "The Ripple Effect"... everything that happens, effects us/others in some manner. We think, well this won't effect me..it's far away. Or what I choose to do doesn't effect others. Being here in NZ, a literal ripple effect was in caution from this earthquake. But also, one of my mates here from Argentina talked to some family at home and they even felt some of it, but are all ok. Anyhoo, let's think about our actions and how they all effect someone/something whether it's for the better or for worse...hopefully, of course it's the first of those!

Be back in a week with some sick pics! Sweet as!

Update...

2010-02-15T01:37:00.000-08:00

Below are several scenes from this past week here on Waiheke...

the 184 stairs from the beach to the top of the hill to Kina Backpackers... my morning view of Onetangi Bay... views from a friend's deck.

Been working heaps to help pay for this great adventure... About 70 hours this past week between Charlie Farley's and Kina.

Anticipation news: My best friend Ech is having a little girl, Liza, this week!

Sweet news: My good friend GK is booked to come over from Feb. 27 through March 10!!

Sad news: My travel mate of 3 months, Jules (from Aus), departed today to travel NZ with his brother... Great bloke!

Enjoy your day! Leave you with a quote...

“Until you mean something to yourself, you can’t be important to anyone else. One must live the good alone-life in order to grow and develop in one’s own way.” – Grace Moore

2010-02-15T01:21:00.000-08:00

Superb 'Stache Squad

2010-02-08T02:51:00.000-08:00

It's so refreshing to meet such nice people from all over the world...people that accept you no matter where you are from, what you look like, what you do for a living, how much money you have, etc. etc. This picture is a great representation of our hostel and the laughter we are creating. Rockin the almighty 'Stache! The Superb 'Stache Squad included (but not all pictured) from the UK, Argentina, New Zealand, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Australia and the US. Watch out...it's making a comeback...and for a great cause...humanity!

2010-02-08T02:41:00.000-08:00

Update...

2010-01-30T02:15:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh....

Waiheke Island....

Quickly falling in love with this place!

From the beautiful beaches, to the genuine people, to the laidback atmosphere, to the true island feel...it’s a great place to be right now. I am settling into a good situation too. Below is an update:

I am working front line at Charlie Farley’s Beach Restaurant and Bar...bartending, taking orders, clearing tables, delivering food and bantering with the guests. It’s located directly on Onetangi beach so the view is spectacular. Really nice owners and staff too! I also just started working at the Waiheke Golf Course and will manage the clubhouse on occasion. This past week I worked from 3pm to close (about 11pm) everyday at CF and at the golf course on Saturday and Sunday from 10am - 8pm.

Before work each day we do a workout consisting of something different each day: resistance training (owner of hostel has weights in his garage), swimming a few hundred meters in the ocean, and/or running sets of stairs (from the beach to the hostel is 184 stairs straight up!).

I am currently staying at Kina Backpackers which is just down the beach from the restaurant. There are daily travelers in and out, but there is a group of 9 of us staying long term here...3 Argentinians, 3 Swedish, 1 Danish, 1 Aussie (Jules) and me. We have such great group dynamics and enjoy divulging in conversation, learning languages, cooking, chilling on the beach, creating percussion music, and of course heaps of laughing.

Hope things are well your way. Enjoy your day!

Chur!

2010-01-23T15:06:00.000-08:00

Alrighty, landed some shifts working at Charlie Farleys' Beach Bar and Restaurant on Onetangi beach here on Waiheke. Really great people and a sweet spot right on the beach! Had a blast working a wedding reception last night! Also, will start working for accommodation (only 2 hours a day) for free place to stay so things are looking great! Hope all is well in your neck of the woods. Cheers!

2010-01-19T22:37:00.000-08:00

The most surreal experience! Skydiving is by far the most inhuman(not even a word), indescribable wild adrenaline kick I have ever been on! Heaving yourself out of a plane at 15,000 feet and hauling to the ground at 150 mph!! Whaaaat!! Awesome! I definitely endorse this activity and suggest giving it a go! You don't get the falling effect because there is no point of reference (like with a bungy jump)...so its like you are a rocket cruising to the earth for 60 seconds...then "POOF" out comes your 'chute and you are in a dream...floating like an eagle high above the ground...taking in the sites...and trying to think logically at what you are actually doing but not coming up with an actual realization....it's that good! SWEET AS!

Job time again

2010-01-16T13:54:00.000-08:00

Quick update: Currently on Waiheke Island which is a 30 minute ferry outside of Auckland. The island is a beautiful place with a laidback feel sporting 31 vineyards and many cafes. I am here with Jules and Kevin and we are currently trying to find some work to help pay for the 2 week adventure trip we just enjoyed with Molly and Carol. Hope all is well in your neck of the woods. Make it a great day!

Uncalled-for Uncomfortableness

2010-01-13T20:47:00.000-08:00

I have always thought it to be funny about places/situations that people seem to be uncomfortable in. I was reminded the other day of one of the top spots this happens as I was cruising to the IEP office on the 10th floor of the Data building here in Auckland city. Can you guess it?...happens just about everytime I am in one. People dont talk, there is usually silence...everyone turns and faces one way, like they are watching a show...I mean, can we not be friends for 30 seconds or 1 minute or how ever long it takes to get to the next floor? You can feel people wanting the doors to hurry up and open because they dont like the uncalled-for uncomfortableness. What I mean here is there is usually an awkward silence that is set as soon as another person steps on. Why I ask? It’s pretty amusing if you think about it. I am sure everyone can relate to this, and as soon as you step on your next elevator you will begin laughing. I say we should throw a curveball at people...next time you step onto one, stay facing the direction of everybody...they wont know what is going on! That’ll be hilarious!

Amusing situations encountered on a daily basis. Happy Elevating!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-09T03:28:00.000-08:00

ALRIGHTY! Let me just start by saying Happy New Year to everyone! Hope you have rang in the year with a BANG already! If not, stop wasting time and make that resolution to crank things up and get adventuring... whatever adventure means to you... just put yourself out there, get out of your comfort zone for a bit, and grow! After all, that's what life is about... checking yourself, pushing your limits, and seeing what you are made of!

An update from the past 2 weeks: Six of us (Jules, Andy, Carly, Carol, Molly and myself) took a trip all around the North island. In a nutshell, we rented a van and hit the road!

Sea kayaking Cathedral Cove, glowworm sighting, skydiving (unbelievable!), whitewater rafting the Kaituna (including a 21 foot waterfall!), cliff jumping, hiking the Tongariro Crossing, climbing Pohutukawa trees, beachcombing many places, snorkling Goat Island Marine Reserve, Bay of Islands (Carol skydived again and Molly did the island helicopter tour), Waiheke wineries, and of course heaps of laughter and good times! It was such an AWESOME experience! Stay tuned for more insight on these adventures as well as other thoughts.

Sweet as!

12 days of adventure

2009-12-26T10:47:00.000-08:00

We are out and about for a 12 day adventure trip including camping, hiking the Tongariro crossing, sky diving, glow worm sighting, canyoning, sea kayaking, wineries and chillin on the beach! We hired a van for the trip. It's myself, Wingnut, #2, Carly (Canada), and Molly and Carol... who are my first visitors from the States! Excited! Should be awesome and will update when I can. Cheers and Happy New Year!

2009-12-22T03:20:00.000-08:00

Holidays!

2009-12-22T02:51:00.000-08:00

Well good bye West Coast and hello Holidays! Holidays as in Christmas and new years... and also Holidays as in vacation for a few weeks. We left Barrytown last Friday for a trip up through Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson, Wellington and Hamilton. I am currently in Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty on the East coast of the North island. Its not the chilly-air, wrapped up beside a fire, Christmas Vacation playing on the DVD, poking fun at my brothers, cooking with mom, having an TAB (Tasty Adult Beverage) with dad, and Christmas carols 24-7 on all the radios...but it will be nice. I have some great friends and a family that I will be spending it with... So although I will not be with my loving fam (whom of course I will greatly miss laughing and conversing and being with), everyone can sleep soundly as I will be very well taken care of! I know everyone was worried! Ha! But truthfully, take advantage of the chance you have to share meals and hugs and presents and love...after all...Tis the Season!

Meri Kirihimete!

Beneath the Surface

2009-12-15T04:17:00.000-08:00

We’ve all heard the expression, “Beauty is only skin deep!’’ Today I am inviting everyone that follows my blog to take a look beneath the surface. This pertains to many things we encounter on a daily basis... individuals, places, situations, etc. Sometimes it takes a little while to know the true personality of a person or place...or when you look deeper into things, you will discover a side or aura that you didn’t know was there. Other times it takes a situation in order for this beauty to present itself. For example, the beach here in Barrytown is covered with rocks... gray rocks... the beach just looks gray. Then on a jog one drizzly morning...yeah the same drizzle that brings most people down into depressing funk like the Monday blues...the rain exposed the most beautiful of colors! That’s right...the gray rocks were all of a sudden exploding with many deep rich colors when you actually took a closer look. Once wet, the rocks true colors were revealed and it was a great treasure. So, today I invite everyone to take a more in-depth peak at things. You might be surprised at the beauty you will find when you dig deeper and look beneath the surface!

2009-12-12T17:13:00.000-08:00

One week!

2009-12-10T01:01:00.000-08:00

One week from tomorrow my stint here in Barrytown (Baz Vegas) is complete. It's been a great ride filled with the following: meeting people from all over the world, hanging with the "Wild West" locals, cooking many meals, leading fitness circuits on the beach, bartending for the Stray bus dress-up nights, lots of manual labor including digging a sand volleyball court, shoveling and gardening, calm strolls on the beach searching for green stone (Jade) and lots of laughter. From here, I will be heading North with "Number 2" and "Wingnut" for the holidays. We have heaps planned and some good times ahead. My working experience will be on hold for a while as I will be enjoying a little traveling with these two and a few others. Christmas, New Years, tramping, kayaking, swimming, beach-chilling, concert-going, skydiving, glow-worm spotting, canyoning, and much more are some of the adventures that we may experience. Thanks for those that have been following my blog thus far. Stay tuned for some great pics and more great commentary. Sweet as! Bird

Birthday!

2009-12-04T20:46:00.000-08:00

Welp, just celebrated ye ole Bday! Below are a few thoughts of

mine about our annual number stamping:

Birthdays are a fun reminder to celebrate your existence and be

thankful for being born!

Many people run away and do not like their Bdays! "WHY"...I say! Why run away from it? It's only a number.

Instead, embrace the fact that you have made it this far!

I am proud to say that I am 34.

Thirty-four... sounds like that's getting up there! "Rubbish!" You

are only as old as your attitude (which means I am about 12! Ha!)

Most people dread getting older... I think life is getting better with everyday that I am fortunate enough to live through. "Everyday

above grass is a good one!"

Oh my, I am in my midthirties...isn't there a set plan that I need to be adhering to?...Corporate workforce...house owned...married...

settled down...etc.?

Everyone's life is different and it's interesting to figure out where

your journey is taking you. Everyone has a unique story... I find

that out more and more everyday traveling!

Some of us are fortunate to have met that significant other, have

beautiful children, loving life in a more permanent environment.

Some of us like to take the road less traveled... and that is great

too.

Whichever lifestyle you live and how ever old you are...remember to embrace each Birthday with open arms! It's a blessing and one of those things in life that is perceived based on your attitude.

I once heard, "It's not the years in your life..but the life in your

years that counts!"

So Cheers for Birthdays...

I am in my Thirty-Fifth year of existence and loving it!

"Life is one fast-moving train, and you have to jump aboard and

hold on to your hat and relish the sweep of the wind as it rushes

by. You have to enjoy the journey, it's unthankful not to."

This past week...

2009-11-28T01:55:00.000-08:00

Started off the week with a trip to Karamea (the northernmost settlement on the west coast of the south island). This is where the Heaphy Track begins... a beautiful 4 day tramp. We did some rock climbing, trail running, grilling, cave exploring and boshing. It was nice but I did forget my bug spray and my legs got dominated by the sand flies. The rest of the week has consisted of bone carving (carved a bone into a really cool necklace), cooking for guests, landscaping the gardens out back, shoveling gravel for new paths, and teaching people about Thanksgiving. For Thanksgiving, "Number 2" (the manager), hosted a Hangi in honor of this holiday. A Hangi (pronounced Hungy) is a traditional Maori meal that is cooked in the ground. The following is a description: We dug a knee deep pit 4 ft X 4 ft. the day before. Then yesterday we put in chunks of iron and metal, then a fire on top and got it real hot for several hours...Usually you use rocks instead of metal but the rocks here will explode so we used metal. Then Number 2 and I prepped the food...duck...stuffed chickens...pork butt...potatoes...kumara (like a sweet potato). Next we dug everything out of the pit...ash, rocks, metal... it was really hot and we had to do it quick (20 minute window to keep the heat). We put the metal back down, draped a wet duvet cover on the rocks...placed our food that was in crates on the metal...draped 3 more wets blankets on top of that...then recovered with tons of dirt and sand and packed it down. The food gets steamed for about 5 hours and no steam can leak out or it wont cook. Pretty intensive but fun! About 8pm we uncovered it and pulled everything out...it was DELICIOUS! So moist! We had about 35 locals show up and everyone enjoyed it. Number 2 made a little anouncement about the Hungi in honor of my Thanksgiving holiday! Choice!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T02:05:00.000-08:00

As I sit here over 8,000 miles away from home, the day before Thanksgiving, it makes me appreciate all those times and meals and laughs that I have been fortunate to have with a loving and enjoyable family. Family is extremely important to me and I am one of those lucky few to have one...and not just have one, but have a GREAT one! To my fam back home, wish I was there to spend some good Q.T. with you! It is refreshing to know, though, that I will be celebrating T-giving with my West coast 'family' and several locals here tomorrow night. We are doing a Hangi feast... which is a traditional Maori meal cooked in the ground. Several people are all pitching in and we will be roasting duck, bull, chook and pig...plus other dishes like my Mac 'n' chee. And of course everyone will be drawing hand turkeys like back in kindergarten and getting a history lesson on the original Thanksgiving between the Pilgrims and the Indians. So enjoy yourselves and your families... eat up and soak up the moment! Bon Appetit!

The Daily Circuit

2009-11-20T21:48:00.000-08:00

Each morning I help lead a circuit with whomever wants to join... backpackers, fellow staffers (including the manager who is an Ironman and Triathlete). We usually jog down to the beach for some exercises using our body weight and various sized rocks! Rock relays, boulder tossing, piggybacking, pushups, situps, water-running, etc. Great workouts in a beautiful setting! Keep it rolling!

The Baz Special

2009-11-20T20:15:00.000-08:00

This is the delicious brekkie (breakfast) special that I make for many of our guests:

2 eggs, 2 pieces of toast, 2 sausages, 2 tomatoes, hash browns and beans...

mmmmmmmmmmmm!

People Make the Difference

2009-11-18T14:36:00.000-08:00

There are beautiful places and unique scenery everywhere...all over the world. From the rugged West coast of New Zealand’s South island ...to the Royal Mile at Edinburgh castle...to the gob-smacking Mediterranean views in Cinque Terra, Italy...to Sydney’s Opera House Harbor...to the clear caribbean waters of Staniel Cay Bahamas...to the awe inspiring Grand Canyon... All of these places that I have been fortunate to visit have a common thread of being gorgeous destinations. But the underlying theme of a location reaching that “Awesome” label is of course your interaction with the people there and sharing it with someone.

Individuals can make or break the experience. Being in good company enhances the aura of a place ten-fold. For example, I am often reminded of my experience at Camp Cherokee. Facility-wise, it is very rustic with no fancy “bells and whistles”...it’s the people there that make the experience memorable. The same goes with many of these fantastic destinations...the people that you encounter along the journey make it the difference of being just another beautiful location or being an unbelievable experience!

Europe was better because of my fellow backpackers, Catfish and Patches. Australia was an outstanding experience because of my mates Emily, Ron and Tish. Well so far, my kiwi adventures have been killer due to my new friends in Auckland and now here in Barrytown. Just think about it yourself, a sunset is much more vibrant and vivid when sharing it with someone. Sweet as!

Beauty of a day

2009-11-18T00:42:00.000-08:00

Front of Baz Vegas Pub

2009-11-17T20:34:00.000-08:00

Barrytown....aka Baz Vegas Baby!

2009-11-12T14:35:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Baz Vegas Health and Drinks Club! Currently I am working at a spot in Barrytown on the West coast of the South Island. Basically doing quite a bit of everything...bartending, cooking dinner for the travelers, landscaping, painting murals, leading games for the guests and reorganizing this place. Stray just took over the little hostel and they want it to be a FUN destination spot when the Stray buses stop here. So basically, there are buses in 4 times per week...and it is like Halloween! Each night hosts a different theme night complete with dress-up costumes, games and good times until late into the night. It's great meeting all these backpackers from all over the world and helping them to have a great time!

Stay tuned for some great pictures and stories! Cheers!

Pancake Rocks-West Coast of South Island

2009-11-07T15:51:00.000-08:00

Red Denim

2009-11-07T01:29:00.000-08:00

Red Denim?? Are you serious? Oh yes...But I blog about red denim not because of the garment itself, but because of what hidden gem was wearing them. We walked into the only pub in Marahau in Abel Tasman...and while observing the scene and doing my favorite hobby, people watching, I noticed a gentleman in red denim pants. He was an older lean man with a relaxed look about him... relaxed as if kind of clueless yet comfortable. In addition to his red denim, he was also wearing a red button down shirt and I quietly thought to myself, “That gentleman sure does like red.” Moving on around to other parts of the pub, there was another man with a straw hat, full thick beard, weathered visage, and looking as if he had many stories to tell. The scene that unfolded was awesome and reminded me of the great values of being non-judgmental because you never know about people. It was open mic night and "Red Denim" went up on stage with "The Bearded Storyteller" and they proceeded to JAM OUT on the harmonica, ukulele, guitar and electric fiddle! LEGIT! It was such a fun vibe and I was in awe at these individuals and their talents!

This happens quite often in everyday life, and we should be conscious of our labeling and strive to not judge. Lets use our energy on other nice things. Don't take it from me... take it from Red Denim! Cheers!

Sunny Days

2009-11-07T01:18:00.000-08:00

Alrighty, currently I have ventured down to the South Island via Wellington and Abel Tasman National Park. Allen Schapiro has joined me for this trek and is staying a week in between his travels back to the East coast after 5 months in Singapore. We hopped on the Stray Bus in Picton and are traveling with other adventurers from Germany, Switzerland, England, Holland, Italy, Canada, Romania, Russia, New Zealand and the States. Yesterday, he and I and a few more bros did the Coastal Track in Abel Tasman. Its a 12 kilometer tramp all along the coast line beaming with gorgeous views of vivid greenish-turquoise waters and plush rainforest vegetation. Stunning! It was the best sunny day here in NZ so far and you can tell that summer is right around the corner!

Stray...

2009-11-01T01:48:00.000-07:00

Alrighty... Great things happening as of lately. First off, I will be working for Stray Travel, an adventure bus company that takes backpackers and other travelers around the country to some great spots. Their motto is "Off the beaten path" which means they like to go to some awesome places that the other tours dont. Check them out at www.Straytravel.com. Anyhoo, I will spend the next month in Barrytown, a small place on the West coast of the South island. Stray just bought the ole wild west type lodge (an old miner's lodge). Myself and another guy, Kevin, were recommended by IEP to help them get this destination ready. We are headed that way this week via Wellington and 2 days in Marahau (Abel Tasman Ntl. Park). Should be fun as there will be Stray buses coming in every other night...bone carving, kayaking, tramping, knife making and other activities on the rugged coastline. We will be working with 2 experienced Stray guys in doing all kinds of odd jobs and prep work to make it a Cool Destination spot. Word on the street is the pub gets rockin in Barrytown! Cheers, Bird

Slow down... for SIMPLICITY!

2009-10-29T17:34:00.001-07:00

I was reminded last night at how we quickly forget, when we get into the daily happenings and routine, to Slow Down a bit. I know we all have heaps of responsibilities and things to do and things to get done and things that should've already been done, etc... but it is important to our sanity to take that short moment to relax, clear your mind and just enjoy the moment. For those that do yoga or some sort of other exercise, then you know how important this time is...not just for physical health but for mental health! I was having a dinner last night and got lost in great conversation and realized how nice it was to not have the feeling of something hanging over my shoulder...like "what's next, what do I need to be doing, what do I need to get done right now..."

Just a friendly reminder that we can all do this...it just takes conscious effort. So Slow Down, Simplify everything we are involved in, and take time to enjoy some moments...before they all get away from us! Sweet-as! -Bird

2 weeks

2009-10-24T22:05:00.000-07:00

2 weeks...that's my current tour length. It has flown by, but seems longer with all the activities: hiking volcanoes, swimming in cold water and natural hot springs, climbing rocks, eating local cuisine, chatting with people from all over the world, skyping back home, dancing, bungy jumping, job searching, walking, experiencing, etc.

Friday, three of us took a day trip to Karekare which was absolutely gorgeous... black sand beaches... Pohutukawa trees... a wild seal... waves slamming into the seastacks... no one else around... 10 rows of breakers... cliffs...calming. It was great! What's next? Wherever the wind blows... and that can be many different directions! Traveling releases a sense of surprise, uncertainty and refreshment....and I welcome all of it. It makes you put yourself out there... which of course makes you indulge and experience many things that you didnt think you were capable of seeing/doing. I will leave you today with a quote...

"Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return" - Leonardo da Vinci.

Couch Surfing??

2009-10-22T04:29:00.000-07:00

Couch Surfing?? What exactly is that? Is it catching a wave of the unknown like in the ocean?... Who is hosting me?... What are they like?... What am I getting myself into?... Well, allow me to tell you a little about what's out there! Couch Surfing is a giant reference community online whose official mission statement is "Bringing the world together one couch at a time." Ha ha ha you might say... that's silly right?!? Well, yes and no! Yes, it seems like a crazy concept, but there are 6.1 million people worldwide that can tell you otherwise! This is absolutely legit! Couch Surfing is the greatest set of people that I have been involved with thus far. If it wasnt for this community, I would not have had the experience in NZ that I have had!

Three days into my trip half way across the world, I embarked on a weekend getaway with 12 strangers down to a town (Taupo) 3 hours away from Auckland. This was the start of something incredible! I had an absolute blast hanging with several other surfers (Germans, Americans, Kiwis) and have already developed some nice friendships! In fact, I have stayed with someone from that group all night this week! Sunday was with a Kiwi, Mark... Monday and Tuesday was with Julia in Takapuna, and the rest of the week is with Chris Brooks... Free week of lodging with some great people! How much better can you get? I mean last night, at the weekly Couch Surfing get together at Buffalo Bar at the Princes Wharf in Auckland, there was a BUZZ about the place! Loads of meeting and greeting, swapping of tall tales of travel, and a genuine warmth of 19 countries and over 85 individuals coming together for the greater good of humanity! There is NO other place/thing I can think of in the world that brings people together for a common good than this! Cheers for good people everywhere! Mouranga, -Bird

Kitchens...Save the planet?

2009-10-20T04:27:00.000-07:00

I am about to go to bed here at a friend's flat in Tapakuno, a beach 5 minutes outside of Auckland city centre. Today we hiked up Mt. Victoria, a volcano... and then cooked a dinner with my friend's flatmates...German girl, French guy, 2 Kiwis, and a Scottish girl. This smaller production reminded me to blog about my hostel experience last week, where I was quickly reminded about my travels in Europe too. At the ACB Hostel in downtown Auckland, I arrived into the kitchen to cook my dinner one night...what a fabulous experience! A beehive of delicious smells, pots clanging, different languages, vibrant colors, creative foods, and heaps of laughter filled the room. One of the most refreshing sights as there were over 40 people from all over the world working together... sharing burner spaces and olive oil and conversation... laughing and joking while enjoying their creations! If only the rest of the world could take the lead that is set in hostel kitchens by young nomads.

First Weekend

2009-10-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

Alrighty...Monday morning and no Blues here! Still high off of the weekend in which 12 of my new friends (Germans, Kiwis, Americans) and I went down to Taupo which is a crater lake formed from one of the biggest volcanic blasts in the history of the world. Beautiful with lots of geo-thermal activity. We jumped into a cold lake and then sat in the natural hot thermal streams that emptied into the lake...like a jacuzzi! Had a 'good feed' (Ate lots of delicious food) and our little house was 'choice' (really cool). Back in Auckland now and have my weeks accommodations covered as I will be staying with one of my new peeps, Chris.

Officially been here over one week and look forward to developing a flexible plan of where to go, what to do, and figuring out that J-O-B....maybe!

Sweet-as, Bird

Made it!

2009-10-12T22:32:00.000-07:00

Welp, made it to Auckland! I am chilling here in the BASE backpackers hostel in the city centre with people from all over the world! So far it's been great as I have chatted with several Kiwis and some Aussies on the flights over.

Now that I am here it's time to get ITM (In The Mix). Tomorrow is an orientation and then a Couch Surfers Social at the Buffalo Bar. Should be good times making connections, getting a phone, and finding a job...to quote Craig's dad in the movie Friday.." The word for today Craig is Job, J-O-B!" Keep ya posted. Cheers!

10 Days!

2009-10-01T11:56:00.000-07:00

Alrighty! As I am running around like a chicken with my head cut off finalizing bills, plans, work, socials, and various accounts... all while preparing for New Zealand and the upcoming bills, plans, work, socials, and various accounts... I am reminded life as a whole is an Adventure! And as I listen to the O'Jays Love Train right now it states, "Its time to get on board and let this train keep on riding through"... Well, in 10 days I hop on this "train" all the way down to the newest country in the world, New Zealand... arguably one of the most beautiful places on Earth. So, I invite you to "hop" on this train with me and add a little Adventure to your life. Stay posted to my new blog and maybe we can all learn about other places, people, cultures etc... and just maybe we can sing part of this song and mean it... "People all over the world, join hands, and start a love train!" Cheers, Bird