Angkor Wat: Arrive Early in the Morning, Enter Via the Exit

To me, the magnificence of Angkor Wat could well surpass the architectural and sculptural genius of many of the great cathedrals of Europe.  The immense size of the temple complex and the huge number of intricately carved bas-reliefs makes Angkor Wat truly magical.  The best way to visit Angkor Wat is to arrive very early in the morning and start at the exit.  This will give you time to view the bas-reliefs in the southern and western galleries before the onslaught of tourists arrive through the main entrance.  This same approach works well at many of the other temples in Angkor.  Our private tour guide had it right!

Cheese Curds and Pronto Pups

No, I didn't eat cheese curds, but I did have two Ponto Pups at the Minnesota State Fair.  Each year, we enjoy many of the same attractions and food on our usual route around the State Fair.  The crowds were huge on Sunday and it was a bit hot, but we had a great time.  We were tasked with checking out Mom's winnings in the baking division at Creative Activities.  This year she won a blue ribbon for ice box cookies and several other ribbons for pies and coffee cake.  People-watching was especially entertaining this year!

When Wrens Attack!

Look out for dive-bombing wrens if you get to close to the wren house in our yard!  It is amazing how such small birds can be so aggressive in defending their space.  They will take on much larger birds such as woodpeckers.  I even saw the wren drive a squirrel away several times, sending it running across the street into the neighbor's yard. 

We had one successful brood and now, another pair of wrens has a nest.  Hopefully, we will hear the babies chattering soon.

Progression of Peonies

Peonies are one of my favorite flowers.  Each year when they begin to emerge from the ground, I know it is warm enough to uncover my roses.  Some of my peonies date back decades to my grandmother's garden.  We lovingly transplanted them each time we moved to a new house.  This spring there were very few ants crawling around on the buds.  When the peonies bloomed, they were bug-free and ready to bring inside for a dramatic bouquet.

 

 

 

A Wonderful Walking Tour of Boston

I took my first trip to Boston recently.  I was pleasantly surpised to find most of the historical sites I wanted to see were within a relatively easy walking distance from the Waterfront in the North End.  I followed most of the Freedom Trail over two days, ending up both days at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.  After a full day of walking, I took a cab back to my hotel in the North End.  I would highly recommend exploring the Massachusetts State House.  Both the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers were open when I was there.  I kept thinking about how many of the great leaders of this country have walked these very same halls. 

Lu Ann Sidney Explores Mantorville Minnesota

For those who would like to take a day trip to southern Minnesota, I would highly recommend heading to Mantorville.  I recently spent an enjoyable Sunday afternoon at the Mantorville Theatre Company production of "Love, Sex, and the IRS" at the historic Mantorville Opera House.  Following the play, we ate at one of our favorite restaurants, the Hubbell House, located a block away.  Try the steak!  You won't be disappointed with either the quality or the price!

Lu Ann Sidney Finds Kauai's Junglefowl

There are an astonishing number of chickens (junglefowl) roaming around on the island of Kauai.  For first time visitors, this can be somewhat of a shock.  Ever since Hurricane Iniki let loose the chickens in September 1992, they have seemingly increased in numbers.  They can be found along the highway, in shopping center parking lots, at tourist attractions, and on hotel grounds.  I found the best ones for photgraphing at the Kokee Lodge up the Waimea Canyon road.