syslblog: December 2006

Sunday, December 31, 2006

South Dakota Think Signs

Scattered across the state of South Dakota are signs that are erected each time a motorist loses their life on South Dakota roads. These are the think signs, and from what I can tell, are unique to South Dakota. For many of the loved ones of the victim, these signs serve as a spiritual marker, where the family can go and grieve, and in many cases dress them up with ribbons and flowers. They are South Dakota's way of reminding motorists to drive carefully.

Saturday, December 30, 2006

The Badlands

A trip to western South Dakota is not complete without a trek through the Badlands. This was probably our most fruitful in terms of the abundance of wildlife we encountered. We saw Bighorn Sheep, Deer, a Coyote, Prairie Dogs and a rabbit.

I thought some action shots would really bring some character to this series of pictures, so Alex and Nick were more than happy to oblige.

Skiing Terry Peak

Alex and Nick got their first taste of skiing at Terry Peak in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The weather was warm, but the trade off was that there wasn't much snow. Only 3 of the runs were open, but we still had a great time.

After leaving Terry Peak, we made a quick stop in Deadwood, South Dakota. Here is Michele, Alex and Nick standing in front of the Midnight Star casino which is owned by Hollywood actor Kevin Costner.

This is a view of the Missouri River where I-90 makes it's crossing. This photo is from the East side looking Northwest. Probably the most interesting element of this photo though, is the sign in the lower left corner that says Beware of Poisonous Snakes.

Hike into the Woods

While in the Black Hills over Christmas, we stayed in a cabin near Lead, South Dakota, which gave us a great view of the wilderness. On this day, we decided to explore a little.

I didn't know it when I was taking this picture, but Jessica was heading my way, with a snowball in hand...

If you look very closely at the center of this photo, you will find Michele contemplating the grandeur of it all.

The beginning of our attempt to conquer a large hill across the street from our cabin

Jessica, Alex, Nick and Anna pose at the top.

Michele negotiating the climb up a steep hillside.

A view of the cabin we inhabited for 5 days.

Alex, Nick and Jessica pose on a small bridge near our cabin.

Friday, December 22, 2006

Shawna

When Shawna was 10, a virus attacked her heart, creating the need for a heart transplant. Six years ago, at the age of 12, she was given that new heart, and a second chance at life. Here now, at the age of 18, she serves as an inspiration to all who know her.

Happy 18th Shawna!

Here is another photo of Shawna taken when she was a Junior.

And another when Shawna was in the 7th Grade.

Thursday, December 21, 2006

Google Logos

I've been collecting Google Logos in a random fashion for a couple of years now. Not for any particular purpose, it just seemed like the thing to do whenever I saw a new one out there. I decided to go ahead and put them out here so that others can share in this growing collection.

Standard Logo