Pet Shop Boys: Electric In Portland

October 4th...last full day of my road trip.  When I woke up in the morning, it was chilly in Bend, OR...35 degrees!  I had to scrape a thin layer of ice from my windshield...yes, I brought my ice scraper.  And, my tire chains, but that was just in case.  My concert to see the Pet Shop Boys in Portland wouldn't be till the evening, so I had just enough time to visit the Oregon Zoo.  Three hours later, I was enjoying the animal exhibits at the somewhat small, but nice zoo.

 

 

I love feeding the rainbow lorikeets!  They had those birds at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park on a previous road trip, and it was fun feeding them nectar. After leaving the Oregon Zoo, I got caught in a little traffic and had to ask my GPS for an alternate route to my hotel near the airport.  I was going to have to think about that when it was time to drive downtown for the show.  Sure enough, as soon as I exited the hotel parking lot, there was a major jam just to get to the interstate.  Once again, my GPS helped me out, and it was smooth sailing to the city center.

I've been a fan of the Pet Shop Boys since their first music video for West End Girls appeared on MTV in the mid-80s.  I have every PSB album on CD, and I was looking forward to seeing them in concert again.  The last PSB show I attended...which was also my first time...was back in 2009 with their Pandemonium tour.  I bought a VIP meet and greet ticket, and it was a thrill to see them in person.  When I heard the PSB would be touring this year to promote their Electric album, I didn't hesitate to go with the VIP option again.  The venue for the Portland show was the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.  When I got there, I saw the PSB tour buses parked next to the building.

 

We were told to be at the concert hall at 5:00 pm for the meet and greet, and I was there a half hour early.  I started conversing with a couple of first timers...they had never been to a PSB show, let alone a meet and greet.  They were pretty excited, as was I.  Even though we would be given a VIP laminate that the PSB would sign, I also brought the vinyl record to their new album, Electric to be autographed.  I would say about fifty people were there for the meet and greet as we went inside.  Waiting in the lobby, we could hear them finishing up the sound checks...the music sounded wonderful.  Then, we filed downstairs, where we entered a lounge area, one party at a time.  

As I prepared for my big moment with the PSB, I thought about what I would say.  Then, it was my turn, and I entered the lounge.  I was warmly greeted by Neil Tennant, the talented lead vocalist, and Chris Lowe, the virtuoso on keyboards.  I wished Chris a Happy Birthday...it WAS his birthday that day...and immediately started chatting with them.  I happened to mention seeing Elton John perform in Las Vegas earlier in the week, and Neil expressed interest in seeing the show.  Since the vinyl had a couple of very nice photo sleeves for the records, I asked if they would sign those, as well as the album cover.  After a final goodbye handshake, they wished me well at the show and my experience was over.  I took my happy feelings to the Japanese restaurant across the street from the concert hall, where I had a relaxing dinner before the show.  

The concert was a fantastic spectacle filled with lights, lasers and video images.  Neil and Chris, as usual, were decked out in their unique outfits.  And, as in previous PSB shows, there were many costume changes.  In addition, there were two dancers who added grace and contrast to the visual displays.  The music was loud and exhilarating...I made sure to bring my earplugs...and most of the audience stood up for the entire concert.  This was the PSB's first show ever in Portland, and the crowd was very appreciative of their efforts. 

 

 

Museum day...with cats!

After a fantastic night at the Josh Groban concert, I had a pretty easy day today.  Since the plan to visit the Newberry National Volcanic Monument was a bust due to the U.S. Government shutdown, I had to look for an alternative.  I decided the High Desert Museum just south of Bend, OR would fit the bill.  I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised.  Things started out on a positive note as I was walking through the parking lot to the museum.  I spotted a chipmunk and got a great shot of the little guy.

 

 The High Desert Museum features exhibits on regional Indian tribes and local history, as well as live animals.  I was particularly impressed by their two resident wild cats...Snowshoe the Canada lynx and Vivi the bobcat.  Sadly, both had once been in captivity and declawed...poor Shoeshoe also had his fangs removed...thus, they cannot be released back into the wild. This is a sweet shot...Snoeshoe's tongue is sticking out! 

There were also a number of reptiles, porcupines, otters and birds of prey.  All of them, like Snowshoe and Vivi are destined to remain in captivity due to people lacking the skills or desire to care for these animals...or in some cases, possessing them illegally.  At least they will live comfortably for the rest of their lives.  The cats seem pretty happy!  Overall, this was a nice little museum.  Tomorrow...Pet Shop Boys in Portland!

Boise bound: Josh Groban In The Round tour

After seeing Elton John in Las Vegas a couple of days ago, I had another concert to attend the following day.  It would take 9 hours and more than 600 miles to drive to Boise, ID to see Josh Groban in the first show of his In The Round North American Tour.  I had never seen Josh in concert, not that I didn't want to.  The last time he did a show in Seattle, it just wasn't convenient for me.  This time around, Seattle was also out of the question because I was already attending a different concert in Portland on the same day.  While planning my current road trip, I realized I could do the Boise show, although it would mean a long drive from Vegas on the same day.

Yesterday, I left Las Vegas at 6:30 am, which would be 7:30 in Boise.  Losing one hour to Mountain time would make things more challenging for me.  It was pretty much a straight shot on U.S. Highway 93 to Twin Halls, ID, then the interstate to Boise.  When I got there, thankfully there was no rush hour traffic problems.  I quickly checked into my hotel to freshen up and put on a change of clothes, then headed over to Taco Bell Arena, site of the concert. There was already a line of people waiting to get in.  The 6:30 doors opening time came and went.  About 15 minutes later, we were told the delay was due to the opening act still doing sound checks.  Hmm.  I thought they usually did those in the afternoon?

After a half hour wait, they finally let everyone into the arena.  But, the delay didn't seem to affect the start of the show...the opening act, Judith Hill.  She put on a very energetic set and got the crowd pumped up for what was to follow.  I had a great floor seat, which got me pretty close to the action on stage.

At the intermission, while they were removing everything from the opening act, I found out I was sitting in the wrong seat.  Rather, right seat, wrong section.  Turns out my real seat had a better view of the piano.  When Josh Groban took the stage, it was a surreal moment for me.  I was FINALLY seeing him perform live, and I found myself completely mesmerized.  Josh's voice was wonderful as he started things off with the song Brave from his new album, All That Echoes. 

I didn't have to wait long to hear my favorite song...February Song.  This is the song Josh co-wrote with my Number One music guy, John Ondrasik...better known as Five For Fighting.  The In The Round format allowed everyone in the arena to get a good view of Josh...he was constantly moving around.  His band sounded just awesome, especially with the addition of a six-piece horn and strings section.  During one humorous interlude, Josh answered a few questions submitted by audience members.  Another great moment happened when Josh performed a duet with Judith for a couple of songs.  And, it should also be noted that the ever-so-talented Josh dabbled on drums for two songs...amazing!

Josh performed his most well-known songs, as well as material from his new album.  It was so exciting watching him sing You Raise Me Up and Vincent...the latter originally made famous by singer-songwriter Don McLean. But, all good things must come to an end, and the show did seem to end all too quickly.  As I exited the arena, I decided to check out where Josh's tour bus was parked.  My friend Tara...who is a HUGE Josh Groban fan...said Josh often signs autographs after his shows.  There was an open spot along the barricade closest to the bus, and I staked out my spot.

In no time, the area was full of eager, hopeful fans.  I had forgotten to bring something to get signed, so my ticket stub would have to do.  As we waited, some of Josh's band members came out to interact with the crowd.  Josh's parents also came out to chat with people.  They are so proud of him, and they should be.  Such a talent!  After about an hour of waiting in the cold...yes, it was a bit chilly...Josh finally made his appearance.  We were told he would only be signing autographs, but I was determined to get a word in with him.  I took some photos of Josh doing his thing.

Finally, it was my turn.  I said HI to Josh, and as he signed my ticket stub I told him that this John Ondrasik fan...that would be me...thought he was awesome!  He thanked me, and said that he hadn't written John in awhile and that he probably should.  It was a wonderful way to end my truly memorable night.  As I was walking through the parking lot to my car, I saw Josh's bus leaving, escorted by two police cars with lights flashing.  Wow, police escort out of town...well, to the first intersection anyway.  It would be an overnight trip to Seattle for tomorrow's show at Key Arena.  I wish I could be there, but like I said, I'm already going to a show in Portland.  It will be the Pet Shop Boys on their Electric tour.  I have a VIP Meet and Greet ticket, and I'm looking forward to meeting them again.  Stay tuned...

Animal tracks and Sir Elton

After a whirlwind couple of days, I'm finally playing catch up.  Two concerts in a row hadn't left me anytime to blog, so here I go.

Two days ago (October 1), I left the town of Kanab, UT on my way to Las Vegas to see Elton John at Caesars Palace.  But, before I got there, I spent the day doing a little sightseeing.  Going from Mountain Time to Pacific Time, I was gaining an hour and made good use of it.  First, I visited Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park just north of Kanab.  The park gets its pink sand from the natural wind erosion of sandstone so prevalent in the area.

 

I decided to get a closeup look of the sand by walking the marked nature trail.  Immediately, I realized I should have changed my shoes as the sand filtered right through the mesh of my trail runners.  Oh, well.  One thing I noticed right off was the many different animal tracks left in the sand.  Mostly rodents and insects by the looks of it.  I thought it was pretty cool.

Next, I drove to St. George, UT on a mission.  First, pick up some half cases of Diet Code Red Mountain Dew.  They quit selling it in my home state of Washington, and they also don't have it in Idaho, Oregon AND California.  So, the next closest state to buy it is Utah.  The stuff is like gold to me.  Then, lunch at In-N-Out Burger, which is also not in Washington.  Finally, a much needed car wash.  My Blazer was pretty dirty after a week on the road.  Before leaving town, I visited the Dinosaur Tracks at Johnson Farm museum. They have on display imprints and track molds of real dinosaur footprints.  One mold actually shows the imprint of the dinosaur's skin!  Amazing!

But, all of this pales in comparison to my evening with Elton John.  After days of road trip fare, I decided I deserved a nice pre-concert sit down meal.  I was already thinking buffet before even getting to Vegas, and I settled on the Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace. It's pretty pricey for dinner at $50, but I you only live once, right?  Did I get my money's worth?  Probably not, but I liked the variety of food available. 

After my meal, I walked over to the show venue, The Colosseum.  The concert is billed as Elton John: The Million Dollar Piano.  I got a great seat...front row center in the 1st Mezzanine.  This was the first big Vegas show I've ever attended.  Oh, I've done smaller ones.  Most memorable for me was Five For Fighting at House of Blues Mandalay Bay in 2007.

I was not disappointed with this one.  Sir Elton put on a terrific show!  He performed most of his well known hits, including Rocket Man, Crocodile Rock, Empty Garden, Candle In The Wind, Circle Of Life and my favorite, Your Song.  With a fantastic backup band and singers, and awesome video graphics on a big screen AND the piano, the concert was thoroughly entertaining.  Sir Elton hasn't lost anything over the years...I was impressed!

 

After such a great show, it made me think about seeing more Vegas shows in the future.  Speaking of great shows, I was looking forward to another one in Boise, ID the next day.  I had a LONG drive ahead of me, and losing an hour due to the time zone change wouldn't make it any easier. 

Land of the Navajo

Had a pretty busy day...I visited FOUR states!  Actually, it wasn't all that busy and it wasn't that hard to accomplish.  After leaving Cortez, CO this morning, I drove about 45 minutes west to the Four Corners Monument. This monument is administered by the Navajo Nation and its location is the only place in the country where four states meet at one central point. 

My activities for the day continued within the Navajo Nation with my visit to the Navajo National Monument.  This is a fairly small park, but it was worth taking a short walk along the paved Sandal Trail to see their Betatakin cliff dwelling.  Although only seen from an overlook, that and the surrounding views were impressive. 

I also hiked the dirt Canyon View Trail to get a better look at...the canyon.  Betatakin Canyon to be exact.  And, I DID view the canyon, too!  Oh, and I took some photos.

As I was leaving the park, I was a bit disappointed that I didn't get my customary animal pic.  It was like someone was listening to me as animals literally threw themselves in front of my Blazer.  Well, maybe I'm being a bit melodramatic.  I had to stop for the sheep crossing.  Apparently, it's not uncommon to see sheep in Navajo Country.  AND, I got my animal pic!  Sweet!

After stopping for gas in Page, AZ, just a short distance down the highway I came upon Glen Canyon Dam.  Located on the Colorado River, the dam creates Lake Powell, a popular recreation destination.

Tomorrow, I'll be traveling to Las Vegas for a little night of entertainment.  No, scratch that.  For a BIG night of entertainment!  I'm seeing Elton John for the first time!  Needless to say, I'm SO excited!  After days of driving and hiking, I really need something like this.  I wonder if they'll let me take some pics...

Mesa Verde: Land of the Pueblo People

I've always wanted to visit Mesa Verde National Park.  In fact, it had been on my wish list every time I go on one of my road trips.  But, it just never seemed to work out.  Not along my route and too far away come to mind as the reasons the park was never included on my itineraries.  But, this trip was different.  When I was planning my vacation, I made it a point to include Mesa Verde first, then work everything else around it.  So, today was the culmination of a couple months of planning. 

I arrived at the park nice and early, about 8:30 am.  At the visitor's center, I bought a ticket for a ranger-led tour of their largest and most famous cliff dwelling, Cliff Palace.  Mesa Verde is famous for their cliff dwellings, the remnants of ancient peoples who lived in the area from about 550-1200 AD. 

The photo above gives a closer view of how the Pueblo People...formerly known as the Anasazi...constructed the walls of their dwellings.  Researchers have determined the age of these dwellings by analyzing the rings of logs used in their construction. 

 

The circular structures you see in the photos are kivas.  These dwellings originally had roofs and were generally thought to be used as meeting places rather than homes.  After my tour of Cliff Palace, I drove to the Spruce Tree House for a self-guiding tour of another cliff dwelling.  Here, I was able to actually climb down inside a kiva...pretty cool!  Spruce Tree House is the best preserved cliff dwelling in the park. 

 

 

The rest of my day was spent exploring the park and viewing other sites previously inhabited by the Pueblo People.  Traveling south along the Mesa Top Loop road, I first stopped at the Navajo Canyon overlook to take in the view.

 

Before moving to the cliffs, the ancient people lived above ground on the mesa.  This fact is most evident in the remnants of pit houses and stone masonry buildings found in the park.  Oh, and there were more cliff dwellings to be seen from the mesa top. 

 

And, in case you were wondering...yes, I have a couple of animal pics.  Lizards again!  Not sure what species these guys are, but they were pretty generous staying still long enough for me to get my shots!  Hey, I don't have lizards where I live at home...can you blame me for my enthusiasm?

 

And, so ended my awesome day at Mesa Verde National Park.  Was it what I expected?  Yes and so much more!  There aren't many places like this in the world...especially one close enough for me to visit.  As of now, I've reached the farthest point away from home in my road trip journey.  Tomorrow, I start the slow trip back to the Northwest.  I may still have a short hike or two along the way, but this week the emphasis goes from entertaining myself to someone entertaining me.  Stay tuned...