archiegirl

As I write this, I am in Gulfport doing some FEMA archaeology. I am glad that I have the chance to be able to do something to help the Gulf Coast back onto its feet. I have seen a lot of locals that are pretty down on their luck, but everyone seems to have a great attitude and a determination to get back what they have lost. I hope that all the people that used to love to visit this area will continue to do so. Give something back to the places that have given you so much.

I spent two weeks on the island roaming around the volcano Maderas doing archaeology with a volunteer group. It was amazing. We stayed at the Finca Magdalena, a co-op coffee/rice/plantain plantation. The people were all great, including the other guests at the Finca. I can’t wait to go back.

Great place to spend some serious hiking time. Please remember that the desert is extremely fragile. Take the offroading to BLM land!

I worked out of Ely for almost a month during the summer a couple of years ago. While I had my coworkers as company, the isolation of the town was pretty stifling. Since the mine closed, the prison and through-town traffic is about all keeping this place going. The scenery is gorgeous, but the rest is kind of sad. I am going to say that it is worth seeing, but only if you are already on 50 headed somewhere else.

Maybe a little dangerous at this point, but 10 years ago it was like paradise.

I did my undergraduate work in Washington D.C. trying to avoid a college town (Charlottesville, VA to be specific). I ended up in Chico for my MA and it turned out to be some of the best years of my life. I can’t talk too much about the youngsters, but for those of us in our mid-twenties, it has a laid back feel, has lots of opportunities for fun including a couple of great farmers markets, lots of live music, and a great downtown. I try to get back often. The only downside is the tract-home hell expanding out of its cozy little center…

A decent bar downtown. Music a bit too loud for me, but more laid back than other places.

I am going to Ometepe in January for two weeks. I am so excited!