Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Spend a Day in Weston, Missouri


When most people go on vacation they think of the beach or the mountains or maybe even a cruise, but the Midwest has some gems also. Historic Weston, Missouri is one such gem. Located about twenty minutes north of Kansas City just off I-29. Weston offers visitors a blast from the past as well as a very nice state park that borders the mighty Missouri river.

Hiking and sightseeing are the strengths of the park. Once you get into Weston Bend state park take the second left to the Overlook, park your car and make sure to take your binoculars and camera. The scenic overlook is breathtaking as you stand on an elevated platform high above the Missouri river. The mighty Missouri lies below and on a clear day you can see the Military Prison on Fort Leavenworth. If you’re not scared of heights get on the nature trail just below the scenic overlook.
 The Overlook trail is only about 1.5 miles, connecting to a larger paved trail network that totals about four miles. The Overlook trail takes you up and down some steep hills on an elevated ridge on the very edge of the Missouri river. If you do a little exploring you might even stumble onto a historic tobacco barn. The best time of the year to visit Weston Bend state park is Spring or Autumn, being so close to the river the mosquitos and gnats get a little troublesome in the summer.

Thirsty after a long hike, make sure and stop into Pirtel’s Winery on your way into town. Located in an old restored church, you can walk in for some free wine tasting. Try before you buy is a great way to sample an array of local wines before making your final selection. The Mellow Red was my favorite, sweet, fruity and not too strong. They also have a Honey Mead that’s made with locally harvested honey.



No trip to Weston would be complete without a stop down into O’Malley’s Irish Pub. Established in 1842, this historic brewery makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time. As you descend deep into the musty tunnels, you can almost visualize the workers of yester-year stacking barrels of ale, wine and spirits. It has now been converted into a folksy Irish pub, but under the steps is a network of escape tunnel leading out into Weston itself. As legend goes, during prohibition times the Feds would raid the place and the workers would escape through the tunnels. Go early before they get busy to get seats. If you’re lucky, Bob Reeder will be there singing Irish Folks music, telling stories and playing the bagpipes. The Cream Ale is delicious, but have a designated driver or stay in one of the Bed and Breakfast’s in town, because the beer is stout. Upstairs is the restaurant and the food is outstanding. 



(Impressions by: Robert Bryant  www.eraokoth.com



Saturday, June 15, 2013

Suffering from Footy Withdrawal?!


Your agony and torment is coming to an end, the much-anticipated Confederations Cup is just a few hours away!!! Okay, I get it, no one really cares.


This tournament made its debut in the late 90’s and was set up as a showcase of the host nation to illustrate its preparedness for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. That’s right, we are less than a year away from the glorious spectacle of the ‘Beautiful Game’.

Today all eyes (well, maybe not all) will be on the host nation Brazil as they open this tournament against Japan.
Much speculation and drama has surrounded Brazil due to their high crime rate, violence towards tourists, questionable security, lack of infrastructure and overall readiness to host such a grand event next year. The Federative Republic of Brazil has a huge task ahead of them with the highly anticipated visit of the new Pope, upcoming World Cup as well as the next summer Olympics.

So, how does this all work? 8 teams are split into two groups:
Group A: Brazil, Japan, Mexico, Italy
Group B: Spain, Uruguay, Tahiti, Nigeria

Each team plays everyone in their group, the top two from each group will advance into a knockout phase. Followed by a semifinal and final. There will also be a consolidation third-place match.  

Breaking News:
This tournament will test goal-line technology. Controversy, controversy…

Will the underdog Tahiti lift the trophy? Will the Spanish powerhouse continue to dominate? Will we see an array of beautiful goals by the likes of Neymar, Mario Balotelli and Mexico’s Chicharito? Will Luis Suarez absolutely lose his mind and turn into a full fledge cannibal?

Most of all, I hope to see Brazil prove the critics wrong and put on a flawless event. 

Ole, ole, ole 


Thursday, June 13, 2013

HELLO my name is

Schnapszahl ('shnop-tzahl) n. German word for palindrome, specifically referring to numeric palindromes. German culture applies a special significance to Schnapszahl-birthday celebrations (11, 22, 33, 111 etc.)

Earlier this year I hit the BIG 3-3  …time to teach this old dog some new tricks and give blogging a try. 


I lived a nomadic life, between continents, states and multiple cities. The travel bug infected me early on and I’m always dreaming up my next adventure. 
I am a Hooligan! Well, maybe more of a super fan for my beloved FC Bayern München and three time World Cup champs, die Deutsche Nationalmannschaft. 


Ready, Set, Go!