Tuesday, December 09, 2008

Athens in Turmoil


Byzantine Church Athens
Originally uploaded by thistleamy5
There have been riots in Athens for the past week after the police shooting and death of a 15 year old from northern Greece. I always hate to see Greece in the news this way - as there is so much about Greece and the people there that is so wonderful. But the political situation there has always been volatile - pretty much since they gained independence from Turkey in 1821.

Although Greece and Athens was the birthplace of democracy - it has had a hard time regaining that glory in modern times. It is something Greeks are always in conflict over and is reflected in their modern poetry and art.

It's a fascinating and beautiful place - and I hope they find political peace soon - it likely means that the current Prime Minister Karamanlis will be deposed.

So this picture is absolutely no reflection of what I'm talking about - but it is a beautiful Byzantine church.

Monday, December 08, 2008

Saturday, December 06, 2008

Nike Cross Nationals - The Hills


If you take enough pictures of this hill - Christian does appear. This is harder than it looks.

Minutes Away


Pre race
Originally uploaded by thistleamy5
Winston looks happy - it's his birthday!

Nike Cross Nationals - Getting Ready


It was yet another beautiful day for cross country. And what a special day for Christian - certainly not a day he will soon forget. Looking serious here with about 8 minutes to the start.

This is the BEST!


Ben and Andrew
Originally uploaded by thistleamy5

Friday, December 05, 2008

Ben - Our Hero


AFP - Ben
Originally uploaded by thistleamy5
Yesterday - Ben and his friend Rory received the AFP - Youth in Philanthrophy Award down at the Marriot Hotel. The room was jam packed (est. 600-700 attendees) with dignitaries and a veritable who's who of Portland's best.

Ben got up and gave the greatest acceptance speech in front of all those people. He is the most amazing 9 year old on the planet and I am so incredibly proud of him and so happy for his mom and dad.

I guarantee people will be talking about this guy for quite some time.