Coffee Outside

In addition to keeping this blog, I also make a podcast called Attempt Adventure with my buddy, James. It's a podcast all about travel, having little adventures, and doing little things to make life more interesting. My brother was a guest on the show earlier in the month to talk about his amazing experiences studying in Tel Aviv, Israel.

In April, we issued a monthly challenge to get people outside and have a little fun. The challenge was simple, all you had to do was go outside and make a cup of coffee!

We had a few great participants, which made me really happy!

I'd like to share the coffee adventures that my friends and family had here on my blog. 

Here's the very first episode of the podcast, in which we talk a little bit about the monthly challenge.

Coffee Outside with my friends and family!

My mom made a cup of French press coffee in her garden in Texas.

My brother made a pot of Turkish coffee on a stove during a camping trip at the Sea of Galilee in Israel.

I fired up my little alcohol stove that I use when camping, and made a cup of instant Malaysian coffee on my balcony.

Vexillology: New and Old US State Flags

My favorite US state flags: >> https://michaeldesrosiers.blogspot.com/2020/04/vexillology-us-states.html

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I've got a big problem with most of the flags of the US states. Some are great! Unfortunately, far too many states opt for a boring blue field with the state seal on it. Like these:

Kentucky

Montana

Nebraska

Or these:

New Hampshire

Vermont

Utah

Super boring. I think that state flags should reflect the unique culture, history, and heritage of each individual US state. Our country is, after all, a big beautiful federation of 50 special and unique states, each with its own culture and heritage.

That being said, two states have (for one reason or another) just this year introduced new and super-nice flags that I think are worthy of highlighting. I also want to write about three former state flags that I found interesting and worth writing about.

New State Flags

Mississippi; 2021-Present

Mississippi's flag has attracted plenty of controversy over the past few decades, but was thrown into the light in the last year as the only flag left in the United States that still featured the Confederate Battle Flag in its canton. There had been a huge push to change Mississippi's flag due to various racial and historical issues (it is, after all, kind of inappropriate to put the flag of a defeated enemy state on a state flag). A ceremonial flag had been introduced for Mississippi's bicentennial in 2001, and while it was often flown in an official capacity, and while there was a huge campaign to make it the official state flag, it never gained much traction.

The old flag attracted so much controversy that both the Mississippi Baptist Convention and Walmart boycotted flying the flag. Eventually, the state government had to concede that it was time for a change.

In 2020, a bipartisan commission introduced legislation to change the flag to be more inclusive and to better reflect the unique cultural heritage of the state of Mississippi. A public referendum in 2020 chose this absolute beauty of a flag, the Magnolia Flag. 

The magnolia is the official state flower of Mississippi. It is ringed by stars and, while it keeps the colors of the old flag, now features the United States Motto "In God We Trust" in place of the old Confederate battle flag.

I love it.

Honestly, if this flag had existed last year when I wrote the post about US state flags, it may have had a spot on my list!

Previous Mississippi Flag (left) and 2001 Ceremonial Bicentennial Flag (right)

     

Utah (Ceremonial Flag), 2021

Utah's state flag wasn't controversial, just boring. It's one of those dull blue field flags that I mentioned earlier on in this post. Luckily, there's a big push to redesign Utah's state flag, too! Utah is known as the "Deseret State". "Deseret" is a word from the Book of Mormon meaning "honeybee". Thus, the beehive is a symbol of the state, and even appeared on a very old flag of Utah Territory long, long ago.

Today, the beehive is the most iconic symbol of Utah, and it makes sense to feature it on its flag.

This Beehive Flag was introduced this year for the state's bicentennial celebration as an official ceremonial flag, but there is also a movement to make it permanent and official. And I say, let's go!!! I'm all for it! 

This flag is cool! The beehive is a unique design that harkens back to Utah's Mormon past whist modernizing for the future. It keeps the iconic red and blue, but introduces an outstanding golden element. Very cool. 

Old State Flags

There are also a fair number of old state flags that are no longer in use which I find charming. I might think that they are vexillologically good or bad, but either way, I find them to be interesting and unique examples of state flags.

None of these flags are currently in use, but I like them.

Louisiana; 1861-1912

Today's Louisiana flag features a pelican. I like it. It's sort of heraldic, and it really reflects the gulf coast culture of the state. Still, I'm quite fond of Louisiana's old state flag as well.

The old flag is reminiscent of the US flag, but in different colors and with a single star representing solely the state of Louisiana.

Nevada; 1905-1915

This flag is just silly, isn't it?

Silver... Nevada... Gold

I mean, I know what they mean, but it's just too many words on one flag. Nevertheless, I find this old Nevada flag both archaic and charming. It really speaks to the excitement of the settlers who sought their fortunes in the deserts of Nevada. It really evokes the emotions of those who traveled to Nevada to seek out riches in the mysterious New World.

Vermont Republic; 1770-1804

Nevada Republic only existed for a few years before being absorbed into the United States, but this flag is still used by the Nevada Republic independence movement, and by those who hope to introduce it as an official state flag.

Nevada's flag is another one of the boring blue ones, and while I think that the UN blue and forest green kind of clash, I'll support any state flag that gets away from the traditional boring format.

And, as a fun side note, Vermont Republic even issues its own passport! I don't know if its a real serious movement or more of a political statement, but I like their flag nevertheless.

Vexillology: Non-Quadrilateral Flags

Not every flag is rectangular... it's true! While some flags, like that of the Vatican, are square, there are a few others that are entirely non-quadrilateral!

Nepal

There are actually 14 non-quadrilateral flags in the world, but the majority of those are local or municipal flags. In fact, there's only one current sovereign state that flies a non-quadrilateral flag, and that is Nepal! I've written about Nepal's fantastic flag before, but it bears repeating how interesting it is. It's rich in symbolism, and is evocative of the prayer pendants which commonly fly in the Himalayas.

Ohio

In the US, the only non-quadrilateral flag is that of the Buckeye State. It just barely missed a spot on the list I made of my 5 favorite US state flags. The swallow-tail flag was designed in 1901, and was meant to be reminiscent of the cavalry flags flown in the US Civil War and the Spanish-American War. It's not unusual to see pennant-shaped cavalry flags, but as for civil flags, Ohio's is unique.

Venice

The insanely elaborate flag of the Republic of Venice, known as the Standard of St. Mark, is still in use today as the official flag of the city. It may look like a rectangle, but in actual fact, the five stripes on the right-hand side of the flag are free-flying fringes representing the six sestiere, or sub-divisions, of Venice. The tails were meant to help the flag fly more smoothly, and to prevent wear on the central part of the flag in the strong Venetian wind.

The flag features the Lion of St. Mark and an open Bible (though when the city-state was at war, the Bible was replaced by a sword). The flag flew over the fiercely independent republican city-state until it was conquered in 1797 by Austria and France.

Qing Dynasty (1862-1889)

I've written about the Qing flag in the past as well. In fact, I've written about it twice, and through a long and complicated series of events, even have a Qing flag in my possession, which I received as a gift. I guess it's fair to say that the flag of the Qing Dynasty may well by my very favorite flag in the world. I just think it's cool.

While the version that I wrote about before was a typical rectangle, this triangular pendant was actually the first flag of the Qing Dynasty, and was introduced originally as a naval flag. In 1882, a diplomat on a state visit to England noticed that the flag of China was the only flag in attendance not in the standard rectangular shape, and he petitioned the imperial family to introduce a modernized version of the flag featuring the same design, which flew over China until the fall of the Qing Dynasty and the rise of the Republic of China.

Vexillology: Flags of Canada

I'm in self-isolation right now. After a year of nearly zero COVID-19 cases, sadly Thailand has begun its most serious wave yet. Maybe we got complacent, but unfortunately, we are finally starting to experience something of what the rest of the world went through in 2020. I'm hoping that things can get under control soon.

While the government hasn't imposed any major restrictions yet, I suspect that it's just a matter of time. Some provinces have already closed their borders, and we are all being asked to cooperate and stay indoors. My adventures are on hiatus for the time being, which means that it's time to turn back to a series of blog posts that I really enjoyed last year: Vexillology, the study of flags (at least from time to time)!

And today we are going to be talking about Canada! First, did you know that Canada has two official flags? The Maple Flag, introduced in 1965, is the national flag of Canada, but the Union Flag is the official ceremonial flag, and is flown over Parliament and at various official functions, particularly when the Queen or Governor-General is in attendance.

And in order to understand the importance of some of these flags in Canada's history, I'd also like to highlight the Red Ensign, a civil flag of Canada, which was in use since colonial days. Before the introduction of the Maple Leaf Flag, Canada actually did not actually have its own national flag, instead using the Union Flag for all official and governmental functions. The Red Ensign was used for a long time in place of an official national flag.

My Five Favorite Flags in Canada

The Royal Standard of Canada

The Royal Standard is the official standard of the monarch of Canada (Queen Elizabeth II). It is a beautiful flag, clearly inspired by the Royal Standard of the United Kingdom, but with the distinctly Canadian triple maple leaves. The Royal Standard is a heraldic banner, meaning that it represents an individual (in this case, the queen) rather than a state or territory.

The standard is designed to reflect the unique colonial history of Canada - featuring quartered elements representing (clockwise from top left) England, Scotland, France, and Ireland respectively. The central element is the roundel with the royal "E" monogram surrounded by a ring of golden roses and topped with the Crown of St. Edward. This monogram is the official symbol of the Commonwealth of Nations (a voluntary union of 54 independent countries), and the royal standard of Her Majesty as Head of the Commonwealth. The standard establishes Canada's unique heritage, while maintain it as both an independent country and an important part of the international community of the Commonwealth.

Quebec

The flag of Quebec takes inspiration from the royal flags of France. The Bourbon Flag flew over Quebec when it was a French colonial territory, and famously featured the fleur-de-lis  as a symbol of French royal authority. The color blue on the flag, like the field of blue on the flag of the European Union, is symbolic of the color honoring the Virgin Mary, representing this heavily French-Catholic region of Canada. The North American Vexillogical Association rated the flag of Quebec as the best Canadian provincial or territorial flag, and I find it hard to disagree! The design is simple, yet effective at illustrating the unique cultural heritage of Quebec within Canada.

New Brunswick

In 1965, when the Canadian Red Ensign was replaced by the Maple Leaf Flag, strong imperialist sentiments throughout Canada led to several provinces (such as Ontario and Manitoba) to adopt provincial versions of the Red Ensign to be used as provincial flags.

In New Brunswick, the colonial government had forcibly removed Acadians (French Canadians) in the mid to late 19th century, and while many had eventually moved back once the deportation mandate ended, tensions between English and French-speaking Canadians remained high. A Red Ensign steeped in colonial history would have been seen as at best insensitive and at worst inappropriate and offensive to the French-speaking demographic.

In 1965, the New Brunswick Premier was the first Acadian elected to the office. Hoping to avoid alienating a huge part of the population, and hoping to help unify the province while being sensitive to historical and cultural issues, he ordered the creation of a new and unique flag. The flag of New Brunswick is designed in accordance with the rules of heraldry, and is taken directly from the Coat of Arms of New Brunswick. It is exceedingly rare for a flag to be modeled directly from a coat of arms, and it gives the flag a completely unique look. You can tell that it looks far more like a heraldic coat of arms than it does a typical flag! This makes it stand out as by far one of the most interesting and unique flags in the world.

The gold lion is taken from the Royal Arms of England and the Arms of the Duchy of Brunswick-Lüneburg, and call back to the historical connection of New Brunswick to both. The sea and sailing ship are in reference to New Brunswick's colonial history as an important trade port and coastal colony.

The coat of arms of New Brunswick:

For reference, versions of the Red Ensign are still in use as provincial flags for several provinces, including Ontario (left) and Manitoba (right):

British Columbia

The flag of British Columbia is one of my favorites for the same reason that I love the flag of New Brunswick. It too is taken directly from its provincial coat of arms.

The flag features the Royal Union Flag, defaced in the center by a crown, and with a setting sun below, representing the location of the province of British Columbia at the western end of Canada. Originally, the sun was on top with the Union Flag below, but it was switched, as it seemed to contradict the idea that "the sun never sets on the British Empire". Instead, it's now meant to symbolize British Columbia as the westernmost part of Canada.

I like this flag not only because it is so unique, but also because it is so colorful, bright, and cheerful. It's a very modern-looking flag, while still keeping the traditional heraldic designs of the province.

Coat of Arms of British Columbia:

Nunavut

The flag of the Nunavut Territory was introduced in 1999 when Nunavut became its own territory. Input was taken from the local community, and rather than a direct reference to Canada's colonial history (as the flags of many of the provinces have), the flag of Nunavut is a direct reference to Canada's native Inuit population.

The flag features a red inuksuk - a traditional Inuit land marker—and a blue star. The star is Niqirtsuituq, the North Star, and is a symbol of the traditional leadership of the elders (a guiding beacon). The colors of yellow, white, and blue are symbolic of the richness of the land, sky, and sea.

The flag has been criticized by some in the vexillogical community for having too many bold colors and for the placement of the blue star, but I like it! I really appreciate a flag that is different from the typical Euro-centric flag tradition (many European flags are - I have to say - quite boring). I really appreciate a flag that isn't afraid to embrace local culture and native tradition in a proud and outstanding manner.

1st Desrosiers Baronet of Quarendon

I am honored to have been recognized by His Majesty King Erik II as the 1st Baronet of Quarendon of the Kingdom of Scone.

Last year, I was awarded the honor of Member of the Glennish Empire, and this year, His Majesty saw fit to award me a baronetcy in his New Years Honors. It's a wonderful title, and one of which I am quite proud.

Songkhla

Because of its prominence as the largest and most important city in southern Thailand, Hat Yai is often mistakenly believed to be the capital of Songkhla Province. While Hat Yai is the business and financial center of the south, the actual political capital of Songkhla Province is Songkhla Town, a much smaller town on the coast.

We had a wonderful day exploring Hat Yai on our first full day down south, and we spent the second day a bit further afield in Songkhla and the surrounding areas.

We called the songteaw driver from the day before, and hired him to take us around for the day. On our way to Songkhla Town, we asked to stop by the Songkhla Central Mosque, famous for being one of the most beautiful mosques in all of Thailand.

Songkhla Central Mosque

Built in 2001, the majestic masjid was built with an architectural style influenced by Indian Islamic architecture, and is referred to by locals as the "Taj Mahal of Thailand".

the "Taj Mahal of Thailand"

A long reflecting pool stretches out in front of the mosque, mirroring its façade in the glassy water.

the long reflecting pool

The mosque is most famous for its beautiful sunset views, and I'd love to go back someday in the evening. However, even in midday the golden domes and white marble stood out magnificently against the clear blue summer sky.

our driver's little red truck

We weren't dressed appropriately to enter the mosque, but we got a few photographs outside before heading on to Koh Yo.

off on an adventure!

Koh Yo is a little island in the middle of Songkhla Lake - officially the largest lake in Thailand but technically a brackish lagoon with a channel to the sea. The island has a few quiet resorts and is home to a temple called Wat Laem Pho.

a temple on Koh Yo Island

Wat Laem Pho is a fairly typical outdoor temple, albeit with a few unique southern-Thai elements (like the Mahayana Buddhist statue of Maitreya, the Future Buddha).

shrine to Future Buddha

What really makes the temple outstanding, however is the Somdet Chao Koh Yao, the largest reclining Buddha statue in all of Thailand!

Thailand's largest reclining Buddha

Dating back over 200 years to the early Rattanakosin Era, the temple is recognized as a historic and archaeological site by the Fine Arts Department. 

the statue depicts Buddha reaching Nirvana

The statue is newer, but is the main feature of the temple. It's much larger than Wat Pho in Bangkok or even the statue at Wat Hat Yai Nai which we had seen the other day.

a different perspective of the reclining Buddha

And unlike the statue at Wat Hat Yai Nai, the feet of this big recling Buddha were indeed intricately decorated. 

elaborate designs on the statue's feet

Leaving the temple, it was time for lunch!

lunchtime!

We had a HUGE seafood feast right on the sea. Even though we have been doing fairly well in Thailand with regards to COVID, tourism is still almost nonexistent, and we were the only people at the restaurant.

enjoying the sun and the sea breeze

After lunch, we hopped back into the bed of the little red truck and drove into Songkhla Town itself. Even though its the capital of Songkhla Province, it's a small town (with a population of around 75,000), and it feels more like a beach resort town than a political center.

a small mosque on the beach with a Buddhist temple on top of a hill in the background

Songkhla has an interesting geography. The town is built on a tiny spit of land between Sohgkhla Lake and the Gulf of Thailand. It's an easy walk from one body of water to the other! At the very tip of Songkhla is Samila Beach, a beautiful stretch of white sand with a famous bronze mermaid statue.

Interestingly, mermaids play a big role in coastal Thai folklore, and there are lots of well-known fairy tales and poems featuring them.

a beautiful sunny afternoon at the beach

It was a beautiful sunny afternoon, and students from a nearby school were out to enjoy the seaside. Bordering Malaysia, Songkhla Province has one of the largest Thai-Muslim communities in Thailand, and it was clear that these kids were from a nearby Islamic school. 

local students enjoying the afternoon

Just off the coast, two islands are named "Cat Island" and "Rat Island". The names go back to a story of a cat and rat who were magically transformed into rocks out at sea. It's said that the islands in the bay look like a cat trying to catch a rat. I don't know about that, but it's a popular local folktale. There's a statue dedicated to the folktale just off the beach.

the cat and rat statue

As we were walking near the beach, we sort of stumbled across a tiny cave shrine carved into the side of a rocky hill. Curious, we approached. The shrine looked distinctly Chinese, and was guarded by a pair of tiger statues.

We never learned much of the history or significance of the shrine, but we paid a few baht in donation for incense (really a donation to enter), and stepped inside the small, dark, cramped cave.

I wish I knew more of the local legends surrounding this place! There were two main statues inside the cave. One featured what looked to be a local Chinese guardian deity, and the other was of a Buddhist monk (probably a powerful abbot or local mystic). Both statues were draped in golden cloth and were covered in small squares of gold leaf from visitors leaving offerings.

Leaving the cave shrine, we ended up climbing the hill. There was a little "Fitness Park" on top, where a small recreational area could be reached via a small but steep flight of stairs.

a little park with a hill in the center of town

It was a hot afternoon, but I climbed up anyway. I was glad I did! There was a light sea breeze at the top, and I could see across the town to the beach.

view from the top of the hill looking towards the sea

Songkhla is a small town, perhaps overlooked even more than Hat Yai by tourists and visitors. I was really charmed with the city, however. It was a pleasant, quiet, peaceful seaside resort town. I would be happy to visit again, not to explore or adventure, but just to relax on a peaceful and lesser-known beach.