Sojourner - Traveling with the “Canman”

Amazing Nagoya skyscraper. I can picture Godzilla climbing it!  It is across from the Nagoya train station, the largest train station in the world!   I love the Shikansen bullet trains. Reliable and no stress about missing a flight. Wish we had them in the states. One of the most remarkable things about this city of 3 million and in fact all Japan is the cleanliness and absence of litter, even though there are NO trash cans. Very impressive. Nagoya-shi is a modern thriving city, with a great metro to get around. Despite its size its surprisingly easy to find a small restaurant and meet some locals. Nagoya has taught me one can live in a big city and still have a sense of community without the need for a car.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/cmaE5d1bgsYSL8t29

Attended the annual Society of Flight Test Engineers symposium in Toulouse, France. . Heard some amazing talks on the coming technology revolution that is powered in part by AI. The city is picturesque and more charming than Paris. An amalgam of French, Roman, and Spanish culture, with a long storied, maybe sordid history of persecuting non traditional beliefs embodied in a magnificent 1000 year old  Cathedral honoring a priest who was dragged to death for not recanting.  Oh for a touch of humanity embodied in  Unitarian Universalist Covenants and Principles  and Kadampa Buddhism. (ref my Wisdom page) The residents are quite proud of their duck dishes, especially the pate. Airbus is headquartered there and the tour of its A320 production facility was enlightening. . 2 airliners come off the line every day!  What I experienced there is the amazing professionalism and expertise combined with corporate leaders who care to ensure it stays that way.  Toulouse Sights

One of the very satisfying things I get to do is work with members of the Italian Airforce. What is remarkable is the holistic perspective their culture embodies. Not just a singular focus work or amazing  jets , but also food, history, culture and of course vino. This picture is from an amazing ristoranti in Navaro called,  La Locanda delle Due Suocere  (2 Mother's  in Law). Understanding that there are many ways to live life is so enlightening. 

The beauty of Riva del Garda, Italy is spectacular.  Glacier carved cliffs are reminiscent of Yosemite, but with frescos!  And singing with miastro Roberto a local musician is an honor and privilege. Roberto left TV and the rat race is following his bliss and doing what he loves.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/4yrWJBV5BBdLhrWm6