Pathways to Prosperity Ministerial in Panama

Kellee and I worked to make the 12 country Ministerial - Pathways to Prosperity - a success. The Ministerial supported open trade and economic development of the Hemisphere. Secretary Rice participated along with many other high level Americans and Ministers from 12 countries and several multi-lateral organizations. As with any trip, there was a cast of thousands supporting the Secretary and the Ministerial. Kellee was the liaison between the Secretary's staff and the Embassy. I backstopped my boss who in charge of the content of the Ministerial and I took care of representatives for three federal agencies. We are now very, very tired - especially Kellee who work all night last night.

Edwin's "Traditional" Birthday Party

Our friend Colombia threw a birthday party for her husband Edwin in which almost everyone wore traditional Panamanian dress, including us, but tragically we don't have a photo! Jim got by with a guyabera, which is not traditional but at least is in the ballpark as a short-sleeved linen shirt worn untucked. Kellee wore a vasquino, similar to Colombia's in the photo, which is derived from Spanish basque traditional clothing, and is basically a white linen shirt with lacy frills. We have yet to buy traditional Panamian hats, but have plans to buy some soon. You can listen to some of the music here.

Jeff on the Camino de Cruces

Jeff and I hiked a very, short distance on the Camino de Cruces. During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Camino de Cruces was the road that the Spanish carried all their loot from South America across the Panamanian isthmus and on to Spain.

Castle San Lorenzo and literally Driving through the Panama Canal

Andy Terry at Monkey Island in Sobrania National Park

Kellee and the Winner of Latin America IDOL

Kellee Farmer and Margarita (who won Latin American Idol). They met at the Presidential Palace in Panama while First Lady Laura Bush visited the First Lady of Panama.

Marine Ball 2008

We attended the annual Marine Ball which is always a good time. You can see it degenerated pretty fast. Pictured here is our friend Robin and my favorite MSG Ruben, who never looks this serious except in photos.