I pass you an olive branch in the New Year

In Ancient Greece, the olive branch symbolized peace and good will. It is said that olive trees take so long to cultivate and bear fruit that it is also a sign of a long life. I think this gesture couldn't be more timely given the state of our world and times. These photos were taken on the island of Paros, Greece and are my reminder of our need for focus on good will and long life. Won't you take it and pass it on?




Wishing all of you peace, happiness, energy, and a renewed spirit towards "making good" in the environment around you.

Peace.

Chicago's greek town

My sister's favorite word is "peripetia" and this weekend in Chicago was that no less. I headed off to Chi-Town for a SAE conference focused on keeping the Greek culture and language alive and encouraging youth to participate and live their Greek heritage. I headed down with Angelos and before we knew it we were among hundreds of Greeks exhibiting their Greek ways, energy, and humor. I was immersed among a group of fun Greek friends of Angelos and Georgos and we had a blast. Greek food, Greek dancing, Greek humor, Greek language, and more.... what more could I ask for. Bring it on Chicago!

Obama takes the White House (how ironic)!

We have transcend race, bias, odds, and have elected Obama as president. The streets are energized, families are dancing, youth are outpouring their energy, political parties (both sides) are in amazement and we are now on a renewed and energized journey for change.

The true meaning of a leader is one that inspires people, motivates others to follow their path, one who provides a vision for the opportunity and challenges ahead. That is Obama at his best. After so many years of lost pride for the country I was born and live in, somehow, someway, I feel better walking out of the house today. Even if it only hope - it's working!

Onward!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDa6CwzSA74

Carve this!

Creative energy was abound and the pumpkins came to life tonight. The carnivore stole the show and left the others in the dust when the votes came out! Nice job Stacey and Jason (of course the professional designer won!). Cider, wine, and the typical Labhard mediterranean fare was part of the party. New friends and old friends joined in on the fun. Glad to have Aline, Mike and Fernando join the crew!

Changing seasons

Change is in our midst. The leaves are shedding, they turn from yellow to red and green to brown, the sun is going to sleep earlier and the layers are coming on. I'm appreciating these simple pleasures. Don't you? These are a few moments captured at the MN landscape arboretum with my 10 year old nephew William.

Greek Island life

Born from a Greek mother, it goes without saying, my heart craves Greek waters, island life, taverna food and the laid back atmosphere. Everything is go with the flow, there are not appointment times, the path might take you down a different direction, but that's part of the plan you know. White washed houses, old windmills, tavernas by the sea, crystal clear waters are all a part of this recipe. It's perfect. One need not change a thing.

Tinos, Mykonos and Paros were part of my mix this year.

Back to our roots....history prevails!

Mom, Linda and I spent two days in Athens on the front and back half of our island hopping. It's easy to roam the streets of Plaka in old town Athens where it all began. The Acropolis looks down on us and reminds us of the times the great philosophers of the 5th Century gathered to discuss the times and future. We walk the cobble stone streets and are amazed with their condition. Our first activity when arriving in Athens is to eat souvlakia and patates at Thanasis restaurant! Oh what a diametrically opposed life from Switzerland.

Bobikon - farm country

I spent a week and a half in Switzerland this September and stayed with close friend in Bobikon - just outside of Baden (20 mins from Zurich). I woke up to the sound of cow bells and an expanse of farms and apple orchards all around. Life is pristine, calm, peaceful and balanced.

The house we stayed at is a rennovated farmhouse. It is an architectural dream maintaining an old world style with modern ammenities.

The Bahnhoff (in Zurich) is delicious!

Linda and I have a special place in our hearts with "the Bahnhoff strasse" - the central street that runs through Zurich. Not only are there amazing shops, people and architecture, but wonderful food to please the soul! Checkout these images that capture the moment!

Swiss Mountain Bliss!

You arrive in Switzerland and immediately notice the cleanliness, order, quality of life, "green" environmental living, and one need not forget to acknowledge the "cow smell" all around!

I took three days in the Swiss Mountains - the Engadin - to find my peace. It was instant. I was at the top of the world. It's hard not to fall in love with Switzerland with your first step.

What happens in Vegas.....

....stays in Vegas!

8/8/08 was Negar's wedding day and Dani, Priscilla and I went to celebrate the big day. We spent the first day decompressing at the spa with Negar - we hit the sauna, whirlpool and treated ourselves to divine spa treatments! Days were spent melting in the 110 heat while lying poolside at the Wet Republic at the MGM. Dinners were spent at fabulous restaurants. Nights included major dancing and clubbing until the early hours! If it were up to Priscilla, we'd be dancing until 7 am! The energy was huge and the crowd fun! The wedding came with good energy, the dinner fabulous and the late night dancing too crazy!

Best wishes and happiness to you Negar!

20th reunion part 2

more great pics!