Athens here I come!

OK, it's time for a side trip.  I'm mentally exhausted from trying to learn Greek, and I need a break, so I'm taking a week off.  Tonight I leave by boat for Athens, arriving there Tuesday morning.  I'll be spending two nights in the "A for Athens" hotel, and will head back to Chania Thursday night.

My plan is to do all the touristy stuff about the Acropolis and whatnot; perhaps take a side side trip and visit Manolis.  This may not be possible, as his schedule is highly variable due to being in the military.  Perhaps I'll also get a chance to photograph some protests as well ... I promise to stay away from the guys with the clubs and motorcycle helmets!

Musical Musings

Yesterday my Greek instructor gave me the lyrics to the song "Kalimera, ti kanis".  It's a beautiful, optimistic song which she thinks is appropriate for these hard times.  You can listen to it here:

Iannis Parios - Kalimera, ti kanis

The final verse says, roughly:
Good morning, how are you, I hope all is well [this is the refrain --Jason]
when you think everything is going wrong
always something will happen, don't ask why
good morning, how are you, I love you a lot.

Upbeat, optimistic.  This is Greek culture.  All of the music here, from traditional Cretan dances, to pop like this, to the latest House being played at the clubs is at its root cheerful, optimistic.  The Greeks are currently justifiably very upset with their leaders--especially Prime Minister Papandreou--but still they meet with their friends for coffee, some really good food, and conversation.  Phone conversations tend to be brief, used to set up meetings in person ("from close" or από κοντά in Greek).

Meanwhile, if you found the above song a little too sweet, here is something slightly bitter from the Sonic Youth:

Sonic Youth - Washing Machine