FIXER-UPPERS.
It's no secret that I'm into real estate. Buying, selling, renovating, landlord-ing. It's become my de facto full-time job.
The more I think about it, though, we are not too different, my houses and I. In fact, in a sense, we’re all houses. You. Me. Everybody.
Many of us would like to think that we’re turnkey homes. Neatly remodeled. Beautiful. Many of us spend our lives trying to portray perfection to an admiring world. The truth is, though, we’re all fixer-uppers. We are all damaged. We are all in need of remodeling.
Think you have it all together? You’re wrong.
Read my latest blog, Fixer-Uppers, here.
The more I think about it, though, we are not too different, my houses and I. In fact, in a sense, we’re all houses. You. Me. Everybody.
Many of us would like to think that we’re turnkey homes. Neatly remodeled. Beautiful. Many of us spend our lives trying to portray perfection to an admiring world. The truth is, though, we’re all fixer-uppers. We are all damaged. We are all in need of remodeling.
Think you have it all together? You’re wrong.
Read my latest blog, Fixer-Uppers, here.
LYME DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH.
May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month.
For those of you who don't know, I contracted Lyme Disease in 2015 on a mountain in Oregon. I struggled to find a diagnosis for seven months, often unable to get out of bed and sure that I was dying. Once diagnosed, it took nine months of treatment with an extreme antibiotic regimen to make me feel human again.
A year later, I wrote an article about my time with Lyme. You can read it here.
I had no idea that it would be my most-read piece of writing ever. I've received emails from, and set up phone calls with, people all over the United States who are suffering from Lyme and losing hope, and have done my best to remind them that things can and will get better.
If you, or someone you love, is fighting the good fight against this debilitating disease, reach out to me. I'd love to listen, share what I've learned, and offer encouragement.
For those of you who don't know, I contracted Lyme Disease in 2015 on a mountain in Oregon. I struggled to find a diagnosis for seven months, often unable to get out of bed and sure that I was dying. Once diagnosed, it took nine months of treatment with an extreme antibiotic regimen to make me feel human again.
A year later, I wrote an article about my time with Lyme. You can read it here.
I had no idea that it would be my most-read piece of writing ever. I've received emails from, and set up phone calls with, people all over the United States who are suffering from Lyme and losing hope, and have done my best to remind them that things can and will get better.
If you, or someone you love, is fighting the good fight against this debilitating disease, reach out to me. I'd love to listen, share what I've learned, and offer encouragement.
ST. PATRICK'S DAY COCKTAILS!
My cocktails will shamrock your socks off.
Kara's jokes will have you Dublin over with laughter.
Either way, you'll be greening ear to ear when you watch my St. Patrick's Day cocktails segment on KATU's Afternoon Live!
katu.com/amp/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/st-patricks-day-cocktails-03-14-2022
Kara's jokes will have you Dublin over with laughter.
Either way, you'll be greening ear to ear when you watch my St. Patrick's Day cocktails segment on KATU's Afternoon Live!
katu.com/amp/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/st-patricks-day-cocktails-03-14-2022
VALENTINE'S DAY COCKTAILS!
Roses are red
Violets stink
Don't buy your love flowers
Make them a drink!
Go the extra mile (or kilometer) for your Valentine this year and craft them a love libation!
I've got three cocktail ideas for you. Watch my latest mixology segment on Portland's KATU to find out what they are. Mocktail recipes available upon request!
katu.com/amp/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/valentines-day-cocktails-02-11-2022
Violets stink
Don't buy your love flowers
Make them a drink!
Go the extra mile (or kilometer) for your Valentine this year and craft them a love libation!
I've got three cocktail ideas for you. Watch my latest mixology segment on Portland's KATU to find out what they are. Mocktail recipes available upon request!
katu.com/amp/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/valentines-day-cocktails-02-11-2022
DRY JANUARY LIBATIONS!
It's Dry January.
Just because you've given up booze doesn't mean you need to give up flavor.
Check out my three latest uniquely tasty mocktail recipes on KATU's Afternoon Live, then go make yourself a Dry Janhattan, a Tea Totaler, and a Bar None!
https://www.katu.com/amp/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/dry-january-cocktails
Just because you've given up booze doesn't mean you need to give up flavor.
Check out my three latest uniquely tasty mocktail recipes on KATU's Afternoon Live, then go make yourself a Dry Janhattan, a Tea Totaler, and a Bar None!
https://www.katu.com/amp/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/dry-january-cocktails
hiking chihuahua.
Chihuahua, I'm in love with you.
Nah, I'm not talking about you, tiny canine.
The Chihuahua I'm enamored with, though the birthplace of the eponymous dog breed, is Mexico’s largest state, and also one of its most beautiful. Soaring granite cliffs, 800-foot waterfalls, snowcapped mountains, evergreen forests, desolate deserts, and the world’s largest canyon system (no big deal), all packed into a state a bit smaller than Michigan. It's a hiker's paradise.
Headed to Chihuahua? The prospect of trying to cram all this beauty into a short hiking trip may seem daunting. Fortunately, I’ve done the legwork (pun intended) for you, and written about it. Read my latest adventure travel blog, Hiking Chihuahua, here.
Nah, I'm not talking about you, tiny canine.
The Chihuahua I'm enamored with, though the birthplace of the eponymous dog breed, is Mexico’s largest state, and also one of its most beautiful. Soaring granite cliffs, 800-foot waterfalls, snowcapped mountains, evergreen forests, desolate deserts, and the world’s largest canyon system (no big deal), all packed into a state a bit smaller than Michigan. It's a hiker's paradise.
Headed to Chihuahua? The prospect of trying to cram all this beauty into a short hiking trip may seem daunting. Fortunately, I’ve done the legwork (pun intended) for you, and written about it. Read my latest adventure travel blog, Hiking Chihuahua, here.
WHAT WOULD JANUS DO?
2021, you got us good.
Seems we thought no year could be crazier than 2020. Seems we were wrong.
So what, pray tell, will 2022 bring? No one knows. Not you. Not me. Not Nostradamus.
However, the ancient Roman god Janus can teach us a thing or two about choosing joy in 2022, no matter what comes our way.
Read my latest blog, What Would Janus Do?, here.
Happy New Year, everyone.
Seems we thought no year could be crazier than 2020. Seems we were wrong.
So what, pray tell, will 2022 bring? No one knows. Not you. Not me. Not Nostradamus.
However, the ancient Roman god Janus can teach us a thing or two about choosing joy in 2022, no matter what comes our way.
Read my latest blog, What Would Janus Do?, here.
Happy New Year, everyone.
CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS!
Christmas cocktails, cominatcha straight from yours truly on KATU's Afternoon Live!
Watch the episode, then craft you and yours a Ponche de Portland (made with 10 different fruits and spices), a Deck The Halls (made with real cough drops), and a Jingleberries (not made with anything that rhymes with it).
They may hack my Instagram, but they can't hack my mixology.
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/christmas-cocktails-12-20-2021
Watch the episode, then craft you and yours a Ponche de Portland (made with 10 different fruits and spices), a Deck The Halls (made with real cough drops), and a Jingleberries (not made with anything that rhymes with it).
They may hack my Instagram, but they can't hack my mixology.
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/christmas-cocktails-12-20-2021
MY INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT HAS BEEN HACKED.
Yesterday, just in time for Christmas, my primary Instagram account was hacked.
In a matter of seconds, the hackers changed everything. Username, password, recovery email, recovery phone number.
Ten years of building a brand, a following, a network, contacts, and friendships, now gone.
I've been working nonstop to regain access these last two days, but the prognosis is grim. If you're wondering what the stories I've been posting about bitcoin, replete with grammatical errors, are all about, rest assured that I have nothing to do with them.
If you come across my account, please DO NOT report it as spam or as someone impersonating me. Too many reports could cause Instagram to automatically deactivate or delete it.
Also, if you happen to know anyone who works at Facebook or Instagram, please reach out to them and to me. I could really use some assistance from the inside.
Fingers crossed.
In a matter of seconds, the hackers changed everything. Username, password, recovery email, recovery phone number.
Ten years of building a brand, a following, a network, contacts, and friendships, now gone.
I've been working nonstop to regain access these last two days, but the prognosis is grim. If you're wondering what the stories I've been posting about bitcoin, replete with grammatical errors, are all about, rest assured that I have nothing to do with them.
If you come across my account, please DO NOT report it as spam or as someone impersonating me. Too many reports could cause Instagram to automatically deactivate or delete it.
Also, if you happen to know anyone who works at Facebook or Instagram, please reach out to them and to me. I could really use some assistance from the inside.
Fingers crossed.
THANKSGIVING COCKTAILS!
Happy Thanksgiving, y'all.
Give your taste buds something to be thankful for today, and channel your inner René Descartes, with an I Drink, Therefore I Yam, as seen on Portland's KATU!
Watch my latest segment and grab some laughs and two other tasty recipes as well!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/thanksgiving-themed-cocktails
🍠🍂I DRINK, THEREFORE I YAM🍂🍠
1.75 oz Corbin Cash Sweet Potato Vodka
.5 oz D'Vash Sweet Potato Nectar
.5 oz Heritage Brown Sugar Bourbon
2 oz R.W. Knudsen Organic Orange Carrot Juice
Dash The Bitter Housewife Cardamom Bitters
5 Dandies Vegan Pumpkin Marshmallows
Shake and strain into a coupe. Top with Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme, pumpkin marshmallows and allspice powder.
Give your taste buds something to be thankful for today, and channel your inner René Descartes, with an I Drink, Therefore I Yam, as seen on Portland's KATU!
Watch my latest segment and grab some laughs and two other tasty recipes as well!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/thanksgiving-themed-cocktails
🍠🍂I DRINK, THEREFORE I YAM🍂🍠
1.75 oz Corbin Cash Sweet Potato Vodka
.5 oz D'Vash Sweet Potato Nectar
.5 oz Heritage Brown Sugar Bourbon
2 oz R.W. Knudsen Organic Orange Carrot Juice
Dash The Bitter Housewife Cardamom Bitters
5 Dandies Vegan Pumpkin Marshmallows
Shake and strain into a coupe. Top with Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme, pumpkin marshmallows and allspice powder.
HALLOWEEN COCKTAILS!
This Halloween, there's no reason for your tastebuds to be afraid.
I've come up with three new spooky cocktails: The Silver Pumpkin, Ir-Reese-Istable, and The Ghoulevardier. Click here to watch me debut them on KATU's Afternoon Live.
No tricks. All treats. I promise.
I've come up with three new spooky cocktails: The Silver Pumpkin, Ir-Reese-Istable, and The Ghoulevardier. Click here to watch me debut them on KATU's Afternoon Live.
No tricks. All treats. I promise.
FALL COCKTAILS!
No doubt about it: Fall is officially here.
Cardigans. Pumpkin spice lattes. Pesky frost on your car windshield when you're running late.
It ain't Mai Tai season anymore, folks. I've got you covered with three new spice-forward autumn libations.
Catch my latest mixology segment on Portland's KATU, then go make yourself a Fall from Grapes, an Apple-ly Ever After, or a Cold Fashioned!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/fall-cocktails-10-11-2021
Cardigans. Pumpkin spice lattes. Pesky frost on your car windshield when you're running late.
It ain't Mai Tai season anymore, folks. I've got you covered with three new spice-forward autumn libations.
Catch my latest mixology segment on Portland's KATU, then go make yourself a Fall from Grapes, an Apple-ly Ever After, or a Cold Fashioned!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/fall-cocktails-10-11-2021
REAL MEN WEAR PINK.
Chances are, you've felt breast cancer's icy touch, whether firsthand or through a loved one's diagnosis. Breast cancer is now the most-diagnosed cancer in the United States. Even men are not exempt. I currently have two friends battling this disease, and a third awaiting biopsy results.
That's why, for the fourth year in a row, I'm honored to be a Real Men Wear Pink ambassador! I'm part of a group of men who are determined to not stand idly by while breast cancer claims another victim. Men who are not content with just sending thoughts and prayers, but are ready to take action to raise money to help find a cure and new treatments for breast cancer, and help improve the lives of those living with breast cancer.
This October, please help me raise $2,500 towards the fight against breast cancer!
That's why, for the fourth year in a row, I'm honored to be a Real Men Wear Pink ambassador! I'm part of a group of men who are determined to not stand idly by while breast cancer claims another victim. Men who are not content with just sending thoughts and prayers, but are ready to take action to raise money to help find a cure and new treatments for breast cancer, and help improve the lives of those living with breast cancer.
This October, please help me raise $2,500 towards the fight against breast cancer!
EMPTY.
I didn't want to write my latest blog.
To be honest, I was, and still am, afraid of how you might perceive me after reading it.
You may have noticed I haven't written anything these last few months. I've tried. Failed. Every other more positive topic I've tried to broach has felt like a tacit falsehood.
I'm empty. I need to get this off my chest. These words don't have a happy ending, at least for now. I don't want your sympathy or your solutions. My only hope in sharing this is that somehow, if you can relate to something I've said, you might know that you're not alone.
http://www.jondavidson.com/prose/empty
To be honest, I was, and still am, afraid of how you might perceive me after reading it.
You may have noticed I haven't written anything these last few months. I've tried. Failed. Every other more positive topic I've tried to broach has felt like a tacit falsehood.
I'm empty. I need to get this off my chest. These words don't have a happy ending, at least for now. I don't want your sympathy or your solutions. My only hope in sharing this is that somehow, if you can relate to something I've said, you might know that you're not alone.
http://www.jondavidson.com/prose/empty
LABOR DAY LIBATIONS!
Are you one of those individuals who actually has to work on Labor Day?
I've got you covered.
Chances are, you'll need a non-alcoholic beverage in your hand tomorrow. One that gives you a little pick-me-up, as well.
I give you the Lunch Break.
Grab the recipe for this cold brew/hibiscus/annatto/cinnamon libation and more from my latest @afternoonlivek2 segment on KATU.
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/labor-day-cocktails-09-05-2021
I've got you covered.
Chances are, you'll need a non-alcoholic beverage in your hand tomorrow. One that gives you a little pick-me-up, as well.
I give you the Lunch Break.
Grab the recipe for this cold brew/hibiscus/annatto/cinnamon libation and more from my latest @afternoonlivek2 segment on KATU.
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/labor-day-cocktails-09-05-2021
PEACH MONTH!
Peach Month ain't over just yet.
There's still time for you to watch my latest KATU mixology segment, then craft a sweet and fiery Peaches & Scream.
🔥🍑🄿🄴🄰🄲🄷🄴🅂 & 🅂🄲🅁🄴🄰🄼🍑🔥
1.5 oz Marcotte Distilling Sweet Peach Whiskey
1 oz Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur
1 oz Marcotte Reece's French Vanilla Sweet Cream
1 oz half & half
.25 oz Silagy Sauce Smokin' Habanero Sauce
Jacobsen Salt Co. Habanero Salt
Rim a coupe glass with habanero salt. Shake and strain remaining ingredients into glass. Garnish with a peach slice.
There's still time for you to watch my latest KATU mixology segment, then craft a sweet and fiery Peaches & Scream.
🔥🍑🄿🄴🄰🄲🄷🄴🅂 & 🅂🄲🅁🄴🄰🄼🍑🔥
1.5 oz Marcotte Distilling Sweet Peach Whiskey
1 oz Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur
1 oz Marcotte Reece's French Vanilla Sweet Cream
1 oz half & half
.25 oz Silagy Sauce Smokin' Habanero Sauce
Jacobsen Salt Co. Habanero Salt
Rim a coupe glass with habanero salt. Shake and strain remaining ingredients into glass. Garnish with a peach slice.
FIREWORKS IN YOUR MOUTH.
This 4th of July, set off some fireworks in your mouth with my Pop Rocks-infused Red, White and Blueberry.
Catch some laughs and all my latest Independence Day recipes on KATU's Afternoon Live!
Catch some laughs and all my latest Independence Day recipes on KATU's Afternoon Live!
DAD'S DAY DRINKS!
This Father's Day, show your dad he's worth more than a tasteless gift card or a tasteless Bud Light.
Treat him to one of my latest Dad's Day drinks.
Check out my latest segment on KATU's Afternoon Live, then whip him up a Daddy Does Good, a perfect patio sipper made of ingredients from companies that give their profits to charity.
Treat him to one of my latest Dad's Day drinks.
Check out my latest segment on KATU's Afternoon Live, then whip him up a Daddy Does Good, a perfect patio sipper made of ingredients from companies that give their profits to charity.
CHIAPAS IN FOUR DAYS.
So your idea of a México vacation doesn’t include the words all-inclusive.
You prefer your water cascading over a cliff, rather than over the edge of an infinity pool? You’d rather explore ancient ruins than get ruined at the club?
It’s high time you visit the state of Chiapas.
Only have four days, like I did, to explore its waterfalls, canyons, caves, ruins, and multicolored lakes ? Here's what to do. Click here to read my latest blog.
You prefer your water cascading over a cliff, rather than over the edge of an infinity pool? You’d rather explore ancient ruins than get ruined at the club?
It’s high time you visit the state of Chiapas.
Only have four days, like I did, to explore its waterfalls, canyons, caves, ruins, and multicolored lakes ? Here's what to do. Click here to read my latest blog.
CINCO DE DRINKO!
Happy Cinco de Mayo from sunny Puerto Vallarta!
As you may know, they don't actually celebrate this holiday here. Don't let that stop you.
Check out my three latest libations, crafted by yours truly, on my latest KATU segment, including El Vaquero, Guac Your Socks Off, and Gingko de Mayo!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/cinco-de-mayo-cocktails-05-03-2021
As you may know, they don't actually celebrate this holiday here. Don't let that stop you.
Check out my three latest libations, crafted by yours truly, on my latest KATU segment, including El Vaquero, Guac Your Socks Off, and Gingko de Mayo!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/cinco-de-mayo-cocktails-05-03-2021
JUSTICE FOR GEORGE FLOYD.
Today's guilty verdict was a victory for justice.
Let us not forget, though, that one verdict does not magically mean liberty and justice for all overnight.
By the same token, talk doesn't equal justice. Protests don't equal justice. T-shirts such as this one don't equal justice, liberty, or lasting change.
Let us be grateful for the steps we've taken towards justice, but let us not forget how far we have to go.
This is not about a trendy cause. This is not about your criticisms of specific organizations. This is about someone's mother, father, sister, brother, daughter, or son having the right to safety, to freedom, to equal treatment. The right to live through a night's sleep at home, a traffic stop, even an arrest. White people such as myself far too often take these rights for granted. It's far past time for everyone in this country to be able to say the same.
#justiceforgeorgefloyd
Let us not forget, though, that one verdict does not magically mean liberty and justice for all overnight.
By the same token, talk doesn't equal justice. Protests don't equal justice. T-shirts such as this one don't equal justice, liberty, or lasting change.
Let us be grateful for the steps we've taken towards justice, but let us not forget how far we have to go.
This is not about a trendy cause. This is not about your criticisms of specific organizations. This is about someone's mother, father, sister, brother, daughter, or son having the right to safety, to freedom, to equal treatment. The right to live through a night's sleep at home, a traffic stop, even an arrest. White people such as myself far too often take these rights for granted. It's far past time for everyone in this country to be able to say the same.
#justiceforgeorgefloyd
HAPPY NATIONAL BEER DAY!
It's National Beer Day!
On this day in 1933, FDR signed into law the bill that would repeal Prohibition. As he signed, he remarked, "I think this would be a good time for a beer."
I would venture a guess that had he been given the option, he would've opted for one of my tasty beer cocktails, instead.
Check out my latest segment on KATU's Afternoon Live right here!
On this day in 1933, FDR signed into law the bill that would repeal Prohibition. As he signed, he remarked, "I think this would be a good time for a beer."
I would venture a guess that had he been given the option, he would've opted for one of my tasty beer cocktails, instead.
Check out my latest segment on KATU's Afternoon Live right here!
SPRING COCKTAILS!
Spring has sprung!
Portland's weather may not have gotten the memo just yet, but that doesn't mean you need to wait another rainy minute to indulge in some scrumptious spring cocktails.
Check out my three latest libations on KATU's Afternoon Live by clicking here! Then, go treat yourself to a Springapore Sling, a Spring Forward Fall Back, or even a Spring Chicken, which features (you guessed it) egg whites, vegan chicken salt, and Tofurky Chik'n.
Portland's weather may not have gotten the memo just yet, but that doesn't mean you need to wait another rainy minute to indulge in some scrumptious spring cocktails.
Check out my three latest libations on KATU's Afternoon Live by clicking here! Then, go treat yourself to a Springapore Sling, a Spring Forward Fall Back, or even a Spring Chicken, which features (you guessed it) egg whites, vegan chicken salt, and Tofurky Chik'n.
THE TRUTH.
What is truth?
Do you know the truth? Do I? Whose truth is the truthiest?
Could it be that we have conveniently made truth in our image? That the second we think we know the truth is the second we stop looking for it, and instead start fighting for it?
The truth is that when we know the truth, we are free to be wrong. Free to love those we disagree with. Free to learn.
The truth is that when we know the truth, the truth will set us free.
Read my latest piece, "The Truth," in Spectrum Magazine.
Do you know the truth? Do I? Whose truth is the truthiest?
Could it be that we have conveniently made truth in our image? That the second we think we know the truth is the second we stop looking for it, and instead start fighting for it?
The truth is that when we know the truth, we are free to be wrong. Free to love those we disagree with. Free to learn.
The truth is that when we know the truth, the truth will set us free.
Read my latest piece, "The Truth," in Spectrum Magazine.
NATIONAL MARGARITA DAY!
Hey, you. Yes, you.
You look thirsty.
National Margarita Day may have been two days ago, but my latest cocktails aren't going out of style anytime soon.
Watch all the Afternoon Live fun and get the recipes for my Margarbeeta, Stargarita, and Chargarita right here:
katu.com/amp/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/national-margarita-day-02-22-2021
You look thirsty.
National Margarita Day may have been two days ago, but my latest cocktails aren't going out of style anytime soon.
Watch all the Afternoon Live fun and get the recipes for my Margarbeeta, Stargarita, and Chargarita right here:
katu.com/amp/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/national-margarita-day-02-22-2021
IN DEFENSE OF SNOW DAYS.
I hate snow. There, I said it.
All you Oregonians who gasp in awe and wonder at the first falling snowflake can have it. Take it all. Snow is the actual worst.
I have so much to do, and thanks to Snowpocalypse, I can't do any of it.
Could it be, though, that in all my doing, I've lost my sense of being? Could it be that the immutable pause button that a snow day provides is exactly what my soul needs?
Perhaps we all need to find our pause buttons.
Check out my latest blog post, "In Defense of Snow Days," here.
All you Oregonians who gasp in awe and wonder at the first falling snowflake can have it. Take it all. Snow is the actual worst.
I have so much to do, and thanks to Snowpocalypse, I can't do any of it.
Could it be, though, that in all my doing, I've lost my sense of being? Could it be that the immutable pause button that a snow day provides is exactly what my soul needs?
Perhaps we all need to find our pause buttons.
Check out my latest blog post, "In Defense of Snow Days," here.
SHOW YOUR TASTE BUDS YOU LOVE THEM.
This Valentine's Day, show your tastebuds you love them with one of my luscious libations, from all the way back in 2020.
A lot has changed in the last 365 days, but not the fact that these cocktails are still delicious.
Click here to watch the hilarity and snag the recipes.
A lot has changed in the last 365 days, but not the fact that these cocktails are still delicious.
Click here to watch the hilarity and snag the recipes.
TRAVEL LIGHT.
When it comes to travel, there are two types of people. Those who pack light, and those who are wrong.
All jokes aside, life, too, is a journey. And if you're anything like me, you've got some baggage that you can't seem to let go of. Heavy luggage that is holding you back from living the life of freedom you've always wanted.
Right here and right now, you and I have the power to let go. To trade our baggage in. To free our hands and our hearts. We have the power to travel light.
Read my latest blog, "TRAVEL LIGHT."
All jokes aside, life, too, is a journey. And if you're anything like me, you've got some baggage that you can't seem to let go of. Heavy luggage that is holding you back from living the life of freedom you've always wanted.
Right here and right now, you and I have the power to let go. To trade our baggage in. To free our hands and our hearts. We have the power to travel light.
Read my latest blog, "TRAVEL LIGHT."
SPICE UP YOUR LIFE.
Don't let that winter gloom get you down.
Spice up your life with my latest cócteles picosos, as seen on KATU's Afternoon Live! Watch me talk about my latest adventures in México, craft some libations, and even light things on fire.
Then, try a Pera Picante or a Mezcanela. They're 100% guaranteed to help fight Seasonal Affective Disorder for at least a few minutes.
Click here to watch the segment!
Spice up your life with my latest cócteles picosos, as seen on KATU's Afternoon Live! Watch me talk about my latest adventures in México, craft some libations, and even light things on fire.
Then, try a Pera Picante or a Mezcanela. They're 100% guaranteed to help fight Seasonal Affective Disorder for at least a few minutes.
Click here to watch the segment!
THE KING AND THE TINY FROG.
What could a tiny frog in my condo in Puerto Vallarta possibly have to do with the Christmas story, with God becoming a baby to save us all?
A lot more than I initially realized, it turns out.
Read my latest piece, "The King and the Tiny Frog," in Spectrum Magazine.
Merry Christmas.
A lot more than I initially realized, it turns out.
Read my latest piece, "The King and the Tiny Frog," in Spectrum Magazine.
Merry Christmas.
HO HO HORCHATA!
It's Christmas Eve.
Give your tastebuds the gift they deserve: one of my three brand-new holiday cocktails.
Try a Ho Ho Horchata, a Mintmosa, or a Nuts Over Navidad. Better yet, collect all three!
Watch my latest segment with the incredible Kara Mack on KATU's Afternoon Live by clicking here.
Give your tastebuds the gift they deserve: one of my three brand-new holiday cocktails.
Try a Ho Ho Horchata, a Mintmosa, or a Nuts Over Navidad. Better yet, collect all three!
Watch my latest segment with the incredible Kara Mack on KATU's Afternoon Live by clicking here.
FREE ONLINE CHRISTMAS CONCERT. DECEMBER 11.
I'll be playing a short, heartfelt Christmas concert online tomorrow night at OHANA Church.
Tune in at 7 PST right here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnITbGvyk3WNav13AGzKTUA?view_as=subscriber
Tune in at 7 PST right here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnITbGvyk3WNav13AGzKTUA?view_as=subscriber
GOBBLE GOBBLE.
This Thanksgiving may look a lot different for many of us.
One thing that hasn't changed? I've created three tasty Tofurky Day cocktails, and debuted them on Portland's KATU.
Even if you can't see your loved ones in person tomorrow, you can still treat yourself to an All About That Baste, a Wham Bam Thank You Yam, or a delicious How To Deal With Your Family.
Watch the segment here! https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/jons-thanksgiving-cocktails
One thing that hasn't changed? I've created three tasty Tofurky Day cocktails, and debuted them on Portland's KATU.
Even if you can't see your loved ones in person tomorrow, you can still treat yourself to an All About That Baste, a Wham Bam Thank You Yam, or a delicious How To Deal With Your Family.
Watch the segment here! https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/jons-thanksgiving-cocktails
THE PORTLAND HOPE GALA.
Did you miss this year's Portland Hope Gala, featuring appearances by CJ McCollum, Timber Joey, Aaron Meyer, and more, as well as a specialty cocktail demonstration from yours truly?
Don't worry. You can still watch it here.
A big thanks to all of you present and future American Cancer Society supporters. Over $130,000 has been raised, and donations are still being accepted!
Don't worry. You can still watch it here.
A big thanks to all of you present and future American Cancer Society supporters. Over $130,000 has been raised, and donations are still being accepted!
LET FREEDOM DRINK.
Vote, if you haven't already.
Then, prepare to celebrate or drown your sorrows with one of my Election Day cocktails, as seen on KATU, and let freedom drink.
Make sure you leave out the bleach in The Trumpkin, though. I was only kidding.
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/election-day-cocktails
Then, prepare to celebrate or drown your sorrows with one of my Election Day cocktails, as seen on KATU, and let freedom drink.
Make sure you leave out the bleach in The Trumpkin, though. I was only kidding.
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/election-day-cocktails
HALLOWEEN COCKTAILS!
No tricks. All treats.
Give your taste buds the Halloween cocktails they deserve, courtesy of yours truly.
Try a Resting Witch Face, a Bitter Pumpkin, or even a Ghostess With The Mostest.
Watch my latest mixology segment on KATU!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/halloween-cocktails-10-19-2020-193100036
Give your taste buds the Halloween cocktails they deserve, courtesy of yours truly.
Try a Resting Witch Face, a Bitter Pumpkin, or even a Ghostess With The Mostest.
Watch my latest mixology segment on KATU!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/halloween-cocktails-10-19-2020-193100036
DEAR CHRISTIANS: WHERE IS THE GRACE?
Dear Christians:
Love is not a noun. It is a verb. God did not simply sit on his throne and wax eloquent about how much he loves us. Not even close. He counted everything as loss, including his own life, to put his love into action.
He calls us to do the same. If we say we love everyone, yet live, act, or vote in a way that doesn't match our words, we don't love. And if we don't love, we don't know God. Period.
Our loveless, graceless words and actions are the biggest cause of unbelief in this broken world.
Read my open letter to my fellow Christians, entitled "Dear Christians: Where Is The Grace?", on the Prose page of my website.
Love is not a noun. It is a verb. God did not simply sit on his throne and wax eloquent about how much he loves us. Not even close. He counted everything as loss, including his own life, to put his love into action.
He calls us to do the same. If we say we love everyone, yet live, act, or vote in a way that doesn't match our words, we don't love. And if we don't love, we don't know God. Period.
Our loveless, graceless words and actions are the biggest cause of unbelief in this broken world.
Read my open letter to my fellow Christians, entitled "Dear Christians: Where Is The Grace?", on the Prose page of my website.
REAL MEN WEAR PINK.
Cancer won't be taking time off until COVID-19 is under control.
That's why, for the third straight year, I'm honored to be one of Portland's Real Men Wear Pink candidates, along with the likes of CJ McCollum and Mitch Elliott.
Join me in fighting the good fight against breast cancer and make a donation to the American Cancer Society today by clicking the link below.
https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR/RMWP/RMWPCY20WER?px=48453100&pg=personal&fr_id=97871
That's why, for the third straight year, I'm honored to be one of Portland's Real Men Wear Pink candidates, along with the likes of CJ McCollum and Mitch Elliott.
Join me in fighting the good fight against breast cancer and make a donation to the American Cancer Society today by clicking the link below.
https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR/RMWP/RMWPCY20WER?px=48453100&pg=personal&fr_id=97871
YOU'LL FALL FOR THESE COCKTAILS.
Now that fall is finally here, it's time to drink accordingly.
Watch me debut my latest seasonal creations on KATU's Afternoon Live, including Comfort Food, a savory, sumptuous cup of adult tomato basil soup, complete with a mini grilled cheese garnish.
Also, if you enjoy watching me make cocktails but don't like hearing me talk, this could be the episode for you. Technical difficulties rendered me silent for the first minute or so. You're welcome.
Check out what you should be drinking this autumn right here.
Watch me debut my latest seasonal creations on KATU's Afternoon Live, including Comfort Food, a savory, sumptuous cup of adult tomato basil soup, complete with a mini grilled cheese garnish.
Also, if you enjoy watching me make cocktails but don't like hearing me talk, this could be the episode for you. Technical difficulties rendered me silent for the first minute or so. You're welcome.
Check out what you should be drinking this autumn right here.
DRINK AQUAVIT. SUPPORT OREGON WILDFIRE RELIEF.
This Thursday, September 17, we three mixologists of Coast to Toast will be crafting three aquavit cocktails for you, and us, to enjoy. Never had aquavit? Grab a bottle and join us. It's the next best thing to an actual trip to Scandinavia.
For every comment or like we receive, we will donate $1 to support the Red Cross and the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, which will aid wildfire relief efforts for so many who have lost so much, as well as aid firefighters who have been injured in the line of duty.
Join us. Drink. Do good. This Thursday. 5 PM Pacific Time.
facebook.com/coasttotoast
For every comment or like we receive, we will donate $1 to support the Red Cross and the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, which will aid wildfire relief efforts for so many who have lost so much, as well as aid firefighters who have been injured in the line of duty.
Join us. Drink. Do good. This Thursday. 5 PM Pacific Time.
facebook.com/coasttotoast
DRINK. FIGHT CANCER.
This Thursday, August 27, you can drink craft cocktails and do good.
I'll be hosting another Mixin' It Up For Making Strides, a virtual cocktail class in which I'll teach you how to make several of the best cocktails I've ever created.
It's simple. Buy tickets. Grab the ingredient list. Have fun becoming a mixologist.
All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mixin-it-up-for-making-strides-virtually-tickets-115897276875?aff=efbeventtix
I'll be hosting another Mixin' It Up For Making Strides, a virtual cocktail class in which I'll teach you how to make several of the best cocktails I've ever created.
It's simple. Buy tickets. Grab the ingredient list. Have fun becoming a mixologist.
All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mixin-it-up-for-making-strides-virtually-tickets-115897276875?aff=efbeventtix
TOAST THE HOST WITH THE MOST.
Last week, Tra'Renee Chambers, arguably the greatest television personality ever, hosted her final Afternoon Live.
Naturally, I had to toast the host with the most.
I crafted three cocktails, each featuring Tra'Renee's favorite spirits and flavors. I made them for her on KATU. Then, thanks to COVID, I drank them myself.
I'm beyond sad to see you go, Tra', but I'm excited for what's next for you, and happy to call you friend.
Watch the whole segment here: https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/tra-signature-cocktails
Naturally, I had to toast the host with the most.
I crafted three cocktails, each featuring Tra'Renee's favorite spirits and flavors. I made them for her on KATU. Then, thanks to COVID, I drank them myself.
I'm beyond sad to see you go, Tra', but I'm excited for what's next for you, and happy to call you friend.
Watch the whole segment here: https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/tra-signature-cocktails
CALL ME REVEREND.
I officiated my first wedding two days ago.
It was a beautiful elopement for a lovely couple from California that I'd never met, set against the stunning backdrop of the Columbia Gorge just before sunset.
The inimitable Katherine Arvidson Pothier took stunning photographs. This is one of them.
Don't forget to call me Reverend.
Want me to officiate your wedding? Email me at jon@jondavidson.com for rates and availability.
It was a beautiful elopement for a lovely couple from California that I'd never met, set against the stunning backdrop of the Columbia Gorge just before sunset.
The inimitable Katherine Arvidson Pothier took stunning photographs. This is one of them.
Don't forget to call me Reverend.
Want me to officiate your wedding? Email me at jon@jondavidson.com for rates and availability.
EL TEQUILA LO MÁS ASOMBROSO.
I On my last trip to México, I found a tequila so amazing I want to shout it from a mountaintop.
Don't worry. I saved my sips for when I was safely back down.
Read my review on Asombroso, my new favorite tequila, here!
https://link.medium.com/RLuVl8uuG8
Don't worry. I saved my sips for when I was safely back down.
Read my review on Asombroso, my new favorite tequila, here!
https://link.medium.com/RLuVl8uuG8
CLASSIC MEXICAN SUMMER COCKTAILS.
Believe it or not, México boasts a lot of classic summer cocktails that aren't margaritas.
I traveled all the way there to show you how to make three of my favorites: the Vampiro, the Carajillo, and the Cantaritos, each with my own unique spin, of course.
Check out my latest segment on KATU's Afternoon Live with the inimitable Tra'Renee, straight from my condo in Puerto Vallarta!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/jons-drinks-from-mexico
I traveled all the way there to show you how to make three of my favorites: the Vampiro, the Carajillo, and the Cantaritos, each with my own unique spin, of course.
Check out my latest segment on KATU's Afternoon Live with the inimitable Tra'Renee, straight from my condo in Puerto Vallarta!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/jons-drinks-from-mexico
'MERICA DAY COCKTAILS.
Want to know what you should be drinking for 'Merica Day?
Watch my 4th of July cocktails segment on Portland's KATU, then go make yourself a Stars & Stripes, a Melting Pot, or an America the Bluetiful.
They're guaranteed to taste like freedom, or your money back.
Watch the segment in its entirety at KATU.com!
Watch my 4th of July cocktails segment on Portland's KATU, then go make yourself a Stars & Stripes, a Melting Pot, or an America the Bluetiful.
They're guaranteed to taste like freedom, or your money back.
Watch the segment in its entirety at KATU.com!
GOD, BROKENHEARTED.
Does what breaks God’s heart break ours?
If it does, our hearts will break when we see injustice. Racism. Discrimination. Misogyny.
If it does, our hearts will break when we see anyone who is created in his image being treated like anything less than the sons and daughters of God that they are.
If what breaks God’s heart breaks our hearts, we will work tirelessly to bring about the change that he, and we, want to see.
Read my latest piece, "God, Brokenhearted," in Spectrum Magazine.
If it does, our hearts will break when we see injustice. Racism. Discrimination. Misogyny.
If it does, our hearts will break when we see anyone who is created in his image being treated like anything less than the sons and daughters of God that they are.
If what breaks God’s heart breaks our hearts, we will work tirelessly to bring about the change that he, and we, want to see.
Read my latest piece, "God, Brokenhearted," in Spectrum Magazine.
COAST TO TOAST: A CAMPAIGN ZERO BENEFIT.
This is a painful, yet powerful, period in our country's history. Life cannot, should not just "go back to normal."
We three mixologists of Coast to Toast aim to help make a difference with the modest platform we have, and to acknowledge the gravity of these times while providing a little levity.
This Thursday night, we'll be creating unique gin cocktails from our respective corners of the United States.
For each viewer who leaves a comment, we will donate $1 to Campaign Zero, a police reform program founded by Black Lives Matter activists that aims to end police brutality.
Join us Thursday at 8:30 EST/5:30 PST at facebook.com/coasttotoast.
We three mixologists of Coast to Toast aim to help make a difference with the modest platform we have, and to acknowledge the gravity of these times while providing a little levity.
This Thursday night, we'll be creating unique gin cocktails from our respective corners of the United States.
For each viewer who leaves a comment, we will donate $1 to Campaign Zero, a police reform program founded by Black Lives Matter activists that aims to end police brutality.
Join us Thursday at 8:30 EST/5:30 PST at facebook.com/coasttotoast.
EIGHT MINUTES. FORTY-SIX SECONDS.
Eight minutes and forty-six seconds is a long, uncomfortable time to lie on asphalt, even when you can breathe normally, don't have a knee on your neck, and aren't fighting for your life.
Taking part in this poignant memorial to George Floyd as part of a peaceful protest in The Dalles yesterday was one of the most moving experiences I have ever been a part of. My tears flowed onto the street as the realization sunk in, anew, that it was a privilege to choose to lie facedown on a street rather than bring forced to. That I have no idea what suffering simply because of my skin color is like. That this. Suffering. Must. End.
Taking part in this poignant memorial to George Floyd as part of a peaceful protest in The Dalles yesterday was one of the most moving experiences I have ever been a part of. My tears flowed onto the street as the realization sunk in, anew, that it was a privilege to choose to lie facedown on a street rather than bring forced to. That I have no idea what suffering simply because of my skin color is like. That this. Suffering. Must. End.
MEMORIAL DAY COCKTAILS!
!Tomorrow is Memorial Day.
Raise a glass in honor and memory of those who have nobly given their lives for this country.
Fill that glass with one of my three latest KATU libations, each of which evokes flavors from the locations of three of the most important, most costly battles in our nation's history.
Watch the segment here!
Here are the recipes:
THE NORMANDY
1.5 oz Trail Distilling Trillium Pink Pinot Gin
1 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
.75 oz Lakewood Organic Pure Lemon Juice
.75 oz simple syrup
2 oz LaCroix Pamplemousse Sparkling Water
Float Bordeaux
Build and serve on the rocks in a red wine glass. Garnish with two black grapes.
THE OKINAWA
2.5 oz g Fifty Junmai Ginjo Genshu Sake
.5 oz Suntory Whisky Toki
.5 oz simple syrup
.5 oz Lakewood Organic Pure Lemon Juice
1 tbsp Maeda-En Matcha + Yuzu Booster
Shake well and serve up in a coupe. Garnish with brown rice grains.
THE GETTYSBURG
2 oz Bull Run Straight Bourbon Whiskey
.25 oz Imbue Sweet Vermouth
2.5 oz Columbia Gorge Organics Spicy Ginger Lemonade
1.5 oz Stumptown Cold Brew
.25 oz simple syrup
Build and serve on the rocks in a Mason jar. Garnish with a dehydrated lemon wheel.
Raise a glass in honor and memory of those who have nobly given their lives for this country.
Fill that glass with one of my three latest KATU libations, each of which evokes flavors from the locations of three of the most important, most costly battles in our nation's history.
Watch the segment here!
Here are the recipes:
THE NORMANDY
1.5 oz Trail Distilling Trillium Pink Pinot Gin
1 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
.75 oz Lakewood Organic Pure Lemon Juice
.75 oz simple syrup
2 oz LaCroix Pamplemousse Sparkling Water
Float Bordeaux
Build and serve on the rocks in a red wine glass. Garnish with two black grapes.
THE OKINAWA
2.5 oz g Fifty Junmai Ginjo Genshu Sake
.5 oz Suntory Whisky Toki
.5 oz simple syrup
.5 oz Lakewood Organic Pure Lemon Juice
1 tbsp Maeda-En Matcha + Yuzu Booster
Shake well and serve up in a coupe. Garnish with brown rice grains.
THE GETTYSBURG
2 oz Bull Run Straight Bourbon Whiskey
.25 oz Imbue Sweet Vermouth
2.5 oz Columbia Gorge Organics Spicy Ginger Lemonade
1.5 oz Stumptown Cold Brew
.25 oz simple syrup
Build and serve on the rocks in a Mason jar. Garnish with a dehydrated lemon wheel.
THE INAUGURAL COAST TO TOAST!
Friday, May 22. 5 PM PST. It's the inaugural edition of Coast to Toast!
Three mixologists, Christian Torres of Texas, Healey Mayette of New York, and yours truly of Oregon, will converge via FB Live to make each other's cocktails, each with local spirits from our respective corners of the country.
These libations will not only be delicious, but also easy for you to make along with us.
There will be laughs.
Tune in at facebook.com/davidson.jon!
Three mixologists, Christian Torres of Texas, Healey Mayette of New York, and yours truly of Oregon, will converge via FB Live to make each other's cocktails, each with local spirits from our respective corners of the country.
These libations will not only be delicious, but also easy for you to make along with us.
There will be laughs.
Tune in at facebook.com/davidson.jon!
COCKTAILS FOR A CURE.
I'll be hosting an amazing event May 16, and I hope you'll join me.
Make several of my craveworthy craft cocktails in the comfort of your home. I'll walk you through the magic via Zoom.
Proceeds go directly to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and the American Cancer Society.
Click here to grab tickets to Mixin' It Up For Making Strides!
Make several of my craveworthy craft cocktails in the comfort of your home. I'll walk you through the magic via Zoom.
Proceeds go directly to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and the American Cancer Society.
Click here to grab tickets to Mixin' It Up For Making Strides!
CINCO DE MAYO COCKTAILS!
I mustache you to click here and watch my Cinco de Mayo cocktails segment on KATU.
Maybe even try making a Jalapeño Beesness for yourself.
Do it today! Don't shave it for later.
Here are the recipes!
GUAVE MARIA
1.5 oz Divine Distillers Agave Spirit
1 oz Jumex Guava Nectar
3 oz Portland Bloody Mary Mix
Build on the rocks and serve in a pint glass rimmed with Tajín. Garnish with tomatillos and a dehydrated guajillo pepper.
JALAPEÑO BEESNESS
1 oz Primario Mezcal Joven
.75 oz Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Poblano Liqueur
1.5 oz honey jalapeño simple syrup
.25 oz Santa Cruz Organic Pure Lime Juice
Shake and serve up in a coupe. Serve with a jalapeño garnish.
CINCO DE MAYO(NNAISE)
1 tbsp Vegenaise Reduced Fat Better Than Mayo
2 oz Shine Cascadian Blue Agave Spirit
.5 oz Corona Extra Lager
1 oz Santa Cruz Organic Pure Lime Juice
2 packets of stevia
3 muddled cilantro sprigs
Shake and strain through a fine mesh strainer. Serve in a margarita glass or a coupe. Garnish with a fresh cilantro sprig.
Maybe even try making a Jalapeño Beesness for yourself.
Do it today! Don't shave it for later.
Here are the recipes!
GUAVE MARIA
1.5 oz Divine Distillers Agave Spirit
1 oz Jumex Guava Nectar
3 oz Portland Bloody Mary Mix
Build on the rocks and serve in a pint glass rimmed with Tajín. Garnish with tomatillos and a dehydrated guajillo pepper.
JALAPEÑO BEESNESS
1 oz Primario Mezcal Joven
.75 oz Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Poblano Liqueur
1.5 oz honey jalapeño simple syrup
.25 oz Santa Cruz Organic Pure Lime Juice
Shake and serve up in a coupe. Serve with a jalapeño garnish.
CINCO DE MAYO(NNAISE)
1 tbsp Vegenaise Reduced Fat Better Than Mayo
2 oz Shine Cascadian Blue Agave Spirit
.5 oz Corona Extra Lager
1 oz Santa Cruz Organic Pure Lime Juice
2 packets of stevia
3 muddled cilantro sprigs
Shake and strain through a fine mesh strainer. Serve in a margarita glass or a coupe. Garnish with a fresh cilantro sprig.
THE GOD WHO KNOWS NO QUARANTINE.
In these crazy times, even with COVID-related restrictions being relaxed in some places, it's important to still physically distance. Stay home whenever possible. Avoid infecting ourselves or others.
When it comes to the sickness that infects our souls, though, God does the opposite. He draws near to us, as contaminated as we are. He even came to this earth to die of our disease, so he could cure us forever.
Read "The God Who Knows No Quarantine," by yours truly, in The Compass Magazine.
When it comes to the sickness that infects our souls, though, God does the opposite. He draws near to us, as contaminated as we are. He even came to this earth to die of our disease, so he could cure us forever.
Read "The God Who Knows No Quarantine," by yours truly, in The Compass Magazine.
IMMUNITY-BOOSTING COCKTAILS!
One of the best ways to protect against COVID, or any infectious disease, is to keep your immune system strong.
Enter my immunity-boosting cocktails, as seen on KATU.
I won't go so far as to tell you that the booze in these beverages will boost your immunity, but all the superfoods I’ve crammed into them definitely will!
Garlic. Broccoli. Papaya. Kumquat. Green tea. Guajillo. Even some Emergen-C. Also, all three of these recipes can easily be made as non-alcoholic mocktails!
Check out my latest segment on Afternoon Live, straight from my kitchen, and all the recipes, here.
Enter my immunity-boosting cocktails, as seen on KATU.
I won't go so far as to tell you that the booze in these beverages will boost your immunity, but all the superfoods I’ve crammed into them definitely will!
Garlic. Broccoli. Papaya. Kumquat. Green tea. Guajillo. Even some Emergen-C. Also, all three of these recipes can easily be made as non-alcoholic mocktails!
Check out my latest segment on Afternoon Live, straight from my kitchen, and all the recipes, here.
CYPRUS IN 36 HOURS. PART ONE.
In November of 2019, four of us visited the island nation of Cyprus.
As is the case with most Jon Davidson-related trips, we didn't allot ourselves enough time to see all that this Mediterranean paradise has to offer. Still, we crammed in everything from waterfalls and mountains to beaches and belly dancers.
Sprained ankles. Curling iron fights. Eating contests. Forced stray cat adoptions. Watch all the Cypriot conviviality here.
As we all shelter in place and weather the worldwide storm that is COVID-19, it helps me retain some semblance of sanity to relive travel memories and look forward to the time when we're free to travel again. Hopefully this video helps do the same for you.
As is the case with most Jon Davidson-related trips, we didn't allot ourselves enough time to see all that this Mediterranean paradise has to offer. Still, we crammed in everything from waterfalls and mountains to beaches and belly dancers.
Sprained ankles. Curling iron fights. Eating contests. Forced stray cat adoptions. Watch all the Cypriot conviviality here.
As we all shelter in place and weather the worldwide storm that is COVID-19, it helps me retain some semblance of sanity to relive travel memories and look forward to the time when we're free to travel again. Hopefully this video helps do the same for you.
OF EARS AND THUMBS.
In these times of physical distancing, it’s hard not to feel emotionally distanced, as well.
What we need right now are ears to listen. Thumbs to message, check in, and show we care.
We are not alone; we are alone together.
It's time we choose to stop thinking as much about how we are going to get through, and start thinking more about how we can help others get through.
Read "Of Ears and Thumbs" on Medium!
What we need right now are ears to listen. Thumbs to message, check in, and show we care.
We are not alone; we are alone together.
It's time we choose to stop thinking as much about how we are going to get through, and start thinking more about how we can help others get through.
Read "Of Ears and Thumbs" on Medium!
ALL YOU NEED FOR SOCIALLY DISTANCED HIKING.
In these crazy times of self-quarantine and social distancing, hiking is more of a necessity than ever before, for the sake of our bodies, our minds, and our souls. Even in states with the most restrictive shelter-in-place edicts, hiking is still very much permitted, and even encouraged. Experts have weighed in and stated that the transmission of COVID-19 is very unlikely when hikers maintain the requisite distance between themselves and fellow hikers.
We are in this together, however, and need to work communally to flatten the curve and end this pandemic. Hiking is not an opportunity to be lax on social distancing. It's time to think beyond crowded national and state parks and find the trail less traveled. Last week, for instance, I found three little-known Oregon trails on which I saw a total of three other people.
Hikes that are off the beaten path require a little more preparation, and a little more awareness, than your pre-COVID hike at Multnomah Falls, Vernal Falls, or Watkins Glen. I've compiled a list for everything you need to be ready for your COVID-free adventure. My favorite backpack, guidebook, water filter, hand sanitizer, and more. There's even a tape measure to make sure you're keeping your distance.
Click here to check out my socially distanced hiking must-haves!
We are in this together, however, and need to work communally to flatten the curve and end this pandemic. Hiking is not an opportunity to be lax on social distancing. It's time to think beyond crowded national and state parks and find the trail less traveled. Last week, for instance, I found three little-known Oregon trails on which I saw a total of three other people.
Hikes that are off the beaten path require a little more preparation, and a little more awareness, than your pre-COVID hike at Multnomah Falls, Vernal Falls, or Watkins Glen. I've compiled a list for everything you need to be ready for your COVID-free adventure. My favorite backpack, guidebook, water filter, hand sanitizer, and more. There's even a tape measure to make sure you're keeping your distance.
Click here to check out my socially distanced hiking must-haves!
GREEN DRINKS. AT HOME.
Happy St. Patrick's Day, everyone.
Sadly, my green cocktails segment on KATU's Afternoon Live, along with a lot of other non-COVID programing, has been canceled.
In the light of bar and restaurant closures in Oregon as well as in many other countries and states, it's now not just fun to make craft cocktails at home, but also the only way you're going to have one this St. Paddy's.
So, I thought I'd share my recipes with you. I hope you'll try one, or all three, within the self-distanced confines of your house. Check them out below, then raise your Quarantinis and say cheers to staying healthy, happy, and hopeful!
QUARANTINI
(NUTS OF THE IRISH)
2 oz Divine Distillers Pandan Rum
.25 oz Stone Barn Brandyworks Nocino Green Walnut Liqueur
1 oz Marcotte's Janelle's Pralines and Cream
1 oz pistachio simple syrup
.25 oz Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Liqueur
Sea salt whipped cream
Shake and serve in a coupe. Garnish with sea salt whipped cream and three shelled pistachios.
LEPRECONIFER
1 oz Aria Portland Dry Gin
1 oz Clear Creek Douglas Fir Brandy
1 oz spruce tip simple syrup
.25 oz Midori
.25 oz Lakewood Organic 100% Lime Juice
Dash B'Lure Butterfly Pea Flower Extract
Build, stir and serve over a large rock in a bucket. glass with a spruce tip garnish.
DESIGNATED IRISHMAN
1.25 oz For Bitter For Worse Smoky No. 56
.5 oz Som Tamarind Cane Cordial
3 oz Coava Porfirio Castellanos Coffee
Brew coffee. Build and serve in an Irish mug. Garnish with a tamarind pod.
Sadly, my green cocktails segment on KATU's Afternoon Live, along with a lot of other non-COVID programing, has been canceled.
In the light of bar and restaurant closures in Oregon as well as in many other countries and states, it's now not just fun to make craft cocktails at home, but also the only way you're going to have one this St. Paddy's.
So, I thought I'd share my recipes with you. I hope you'll try one, or all three, within the self-distanced confines of your house. Check them out below, then raise your Quarantinis and say cheers to staying healthy, happy, and hopeful!
QUARANTINI
(NUTS OF THE IRISH)
2 oz Divine Distillers Pandan Rum
.25 oz Stone Barn Brandyworks Nocino Green Walnut Liqueur
1 oz Marcotte's Janelle's Pralines and Cream
1 oz pistachio simple syrup
.25 oz Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Liqueur
Sea salt whipped cream
Shake and serve in a coupe. Garnish with sea salt whipped cream and three shelled pistachios.
LEPRECONIFER
1 oz Aria Portland Dry Gin
1 oz Clear Creek Douglas Fir Brandy
1 oz spruce tip simple syrup
.25 oz Midori
.25 oz Lakewood Organic 100% Lime Juice
Dash B'Lure Butterfly Pea Flower Extract
Build, stir and serve over a large rock in a bucket. glass with a spruce tip garnish.
DESIGNATED IRISHMAN
1.25 oz For Bitter For Worse Smoky No. 56
.5 oz Som Tamarind Cane Cordial
3 oz Coava Porfirio Castellanos Coffee
Brew coffee. Build and serve in an Irish mug. Garnish with a tamarind pod.
WORTH IT.
When I look deep into my own heart, I see a loneliness that no amount of friends can fill. I see a self-worth that is hopelessly glued to the things that I do. I see mistakes that have left me so far from being the person I want to be. From being worthwhile. Worth anything. Worth it.
This is exactly where grace begins.
Read "Worth It," by yours truly, in the latest edition of Spectrum Magazine.
https://spectrummagazine.org/views/2020/worth-it
This is exactly where grace begins.
Read "Worth It," by yours truly, in the latest edition of Spectrum Magazine.
https://spectrummagazine.org/views/2020/worth-it
HIKE OREGON'S SECRET WATERFALLS: MY NEW AIRBNB EXPERIENCE.
This weekend, I'm launching my very own Airbnb Experience, Hike Oregon's Secret Waterfalls.
Two short, sweet, and steep hikes to stunning, little-known cascades in the Columbia Gorge. Drive-by views of six other waterfalls. Transportation, water, and snacks are included.
In Oregon and in need of adventure? Something off the beaten path? Click the link below and sign up right meow.
https://abnb.me/7B9PlmIls4
Two short, sweet, and steep hikes to stunning, little-known cascades in the Columbia Gorge. Drive-by views of six other waterfalls. Transportation, water, and snacks are included.
In Oregon and in need of adventure? Something off the beaten path? Click the link below and sign up right meow.
https://abnb.me/7B9PlmIls4
CULTURE. FEATURED ON PORTLAND'S KOIN.
Hey, Portland. Still haven't been down to Culture on Hawthorne to enjoy incredible Mediterranean food and my unique, Lebanese-influenced cocktails, which boast flavors like cumin, date, sage, pine nut, sumac, garlic, and more?
If it's good enough for Channel 6, it's good enough for you.
Check out today's feature on KOIN, featuring yours truly, at https://www.koin.com/news/food/portland-restaurant-puts-their-own-spin-on-shawarma/
If it's good enough for Channel 6, it's good enough for you.
Check out today's feature on KOIN, featuring yours truly, at https://www.koin.com/news/food/portland-restaurant-puts-their-own-spin-on-shawarma/
ISLAS MARIETAS: MEXICO'S ISLAND PARADISE.
In January, my friend Healey and I took a boat to an island paradise off the coast of Nayarit, Mexico.
We came. We saw. We swam. We snorkeled. We sang.
Hidden beaches. Blue-footed boobies. Underground ocean tunnels. Oh, and whales. All the whales.
Watch my latest travel video, "Islas Marietas," on YouTube!
We came. We saw. We swam. We snorkeled. We sang.
Hidden beaches. Blue-footed boobies. Underground ocean tunnels. Oh, and whales. All the whales.
Watch my latest travel video, "Islas Marietas," on YouTube!
COCKTAILS ARE THE NEW FLOWERS.
Anyone can buy their Valentine flowers. Snore.
Instead, craft them a cocktail they won't forget.
Watch Tra'Renee and I shake it at the same time, and check out my newest recipes, including the Berry White, in my latest segment on KATU's Afternoon Live!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/valentines-day-cocktails-02-13-2020
Instead, craft them a cocktail they won't forget.
Watch Tra'Renee and I shake it at the same time, and check out my newest recipes, including the Berry White, in my latest segment on KATU's Afternoon Live!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/valentines-day-cocktails-02-13-2020
HIKING JALISCO.
There's more to Jalisco, Mexico than mariachi, tequila, and beautiful beaches. Turns out it's also a world-class hiking destination.
Check out the five best hikes in my favorite Mexican state, including a 14,000' mountain, a 300-foot waterfall, and more!
Read "Hiking Jalisco" on Medium!
Check out the five best hikes in my favorite Mexican state, including a 14,000' mountain, a 300-foot waterfall, and more!
Read "Hiking Jalisco" on Medium!
DO IT FOR CONNER.
On January 22, my friend Conner suffered a freak accident while bodysurfing in México, breaking his neck and damaging his spinal cord.
He just underwent spine surgery, and though finally out of intensive care, is still in the hospital in Ciudad de México.
This Sunday, Feb. 9, I'll be playing a show as part of a huge benefit event in Portland for one of the best humans out there. Bands. DJs. Blue dranks. A silent auction.
It would mean the world to him if you could be there. Grab your tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/conners-bffs-29406930591
He just underwent spine surgery, and though finally out of intensive care, is still in the hospital in Ciudad de México.
This Sunday, Feb. 9, I'll be playing a show as part of a huge benefit event in Portland for one of the best humans out there. Bands. DJs. Blue dranks. A silent auction.
It would mean the world to him if you could be there. Grab your tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/conners-bffs-29406930591
LUXEMBOURG IN 24 HOURS.
So you have a day to spend in Luxembourg.
From castles to canyons to cities, this tiny duchy is proof that size doesn't matter, at least when it comes to countries.
Think 24 hours is enough to leave no stone unturned in one of the world's smallest countries? Think again. To explore it all in one day, you'll have to cover exactly 41.58 square miles an hour. No offense, but I doubt you. But, just because you can't see everything in one revolution of the Earth doesn't mean you shouldn't try. Last November, my friends and I did.
Want to read about it? Visit my Medium page.
Want to watch the video? Visit my YouTube page.
I suggest you do both.
From castles to canyons to cities, this tiny duchy is proof that size doesn't matter, at least when it comes to countries.
Think 24 hours is enough to leave no stone unturned in one of the world's smallest countries? Think again. To explore it all in one day, you'll have to cover exactly 41.58 square miles an hour. No offense, but I doubt you. But, just because you can't see everything in one revolution of the Earth doesn't mean you shouldn't try. Last November, my friends and I did.
Want to read about it? Visit my Medium page.
Want to watch the video? Visit my YouTube page.
I suggest you do both.
ZERO PROOF.
Go figure.
My very first mocktails segment on KATU's Afternoon Live found me stumbling over my words, and saw drinks getting spilled everywhere, all without a single drop of booze involved.
I swear there was no flask in the green room.
Either way, craft mocktails are all the rage. So whether you don't drink, you're doing Dry January, or you got pregnant on Christmas, watch all the fun with the ever-amazing Kara Mack, and check out my three tasty zero-proof libations:
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/mocktails
My very first mocktails segment on KATU's Afternoon Live found me stumbling over my words, and saw drinks getting spilled everywhere, all without a single drop of booze involved.
I swear there was no flask in the green room.
Either way, craft mocktails are all the rage. So whether you don't drink, you're doing Dry January, or you got pregnant on Christmas, watch all the fun with the ever-amazing Kara Mack, and check out my three tasty zero-proof libations:
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/mocktails
THAT LIQUID CHRISTMAS TREE.
It's Christmas Eve.
Are you rushing around, trying to pull together that last-minute Christmas cocktail recipe?
Don't. Use mine instead.
Check out yesterday's Christmas cocktail segment on KATU with the one and only Tra'Renee, featuring Home Fir The Holidays, Ooo, Mami, It's Christmas, and This Wine Is Hot!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/christmas-cocktails-12-23-2019
Are you rushing around, trying to pull together that last-minute Christmas cocktail recipe?
Don't. Use mine instead.
Check out yesterday's Christmas cocktail segment on KATU with the one and only Tra'Renee, featuring Home Fir The Holidays, Ooo, Mami, It's Christmas, and This Wine Is Hot!
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/christmas-cocktails-12-23-2019
HUMAN: DISCOVERING WHAT WE'RE MADE FOR.
Around Christmas, we hear a lot about the divinity of Jesus. God with us. Emmanuel. "Glory to the newborn king," we sing.
It's easy enough to wrap our minds around the fact that Jesus is God. But somehow, it's tougher to worship Jesus for his humanity. Humanity isn't an attribute worthy of worship. Humanity steals. Rapes. Lies. Envies. Kills.
Jesus, though, came not only to take on our humanity, but to redeem it, and to show us a new way to be human, living the kind of life he did. Loving the unlovable. Giving till it hurts. Helping heal the brokenness around us.
Read "Human: Discovering What We're Made For," my latest blog post, on Medium!
It's easy enough to wrap our minds around the fact that Jesus is God. But somehow, it's tougher to worship Jesus for his humanity. Humanity isn't an attribute worthy of worship. Humanity steals. Rapes. Lies. Envies. Kills.
Jesus, though, came not only to take on our humanity, but to redeem it, and to show us a new way to be human, living the kind of life he did. Loving the unlovable. Giving till it hurts. Helping heal the brokenness around us.
Read "Human: Discovering What We're Made For," my latest blog post, on Medium!
WEAK.
Weakness has never been en vogue.
They don’t hand out gold medals for deadlifting the least weight. I’ve never seen a World’s Weakest Man competition get televised.
These last few months, I've had no choice but to face my own weakness, both physical and emotional. I'm learning that a strangely beautiful thing takes place when we actually let our weakness show.
It's time we stop pretending we have it all together. When we let our guards down and make ourselves vulnerable, real life begins.
In weakness, there is strength.
Click here to read my latest blog post, "Weak," on Medium.
They don’t hand out gold medals for deadlifting the least weight. I’ve never seen a World’s Weakest Man competition get televised.
These last few months, I've had no choice but to face my own weakness, both physical and emotional. I'm learning that a strangely beautiful thing takes place when we actually let our weakness show.
It's time we stop pretending we have it all together. When we let our guards down and make ourselves vulnerable, real life begins.
In weakness, there is strength.
Click here to read my latest blog post, "Weak," on Medium.
DRINK YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER.
Don't feel like cooking this Thanksgiving?
I've made it possible for you to drink your dinner.
Try my latest recipes: Pass The Gravy, The Crandy, and Chocolate Pecan Pie, as seen on KATU's Afternoon Live. Yes, that's vegetable broth, and yes, Tra'Renee is questioning my judgment.
You're welcome.
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/turkey-day-cocktails
I've made it possible for you to drink your dinner.
Try my latest recipes: Pass The Gravy, The Crandy, and Chocolate Pecan Pie, as seen on KATU's Afternoon Live. Yes, that's vegetable broth, and yes, Tra'Renee is questioning my judgment.
You're welcome.
https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/turkey-day-cocktails
DITCHES: HOW TO GET UNSTUCK.
Life seldom, if ever, goes as planned.
It's so tempting to think of our existence as a series of goals, of destinations, of social media highlights. And sometimes it is. But more often than not, we struggle with feeling stuck. Discouraged. Our lives lack direction. Purpose.
As hard as we try, often convincingly, to portray ourselves as having it together, we don't. For every day we spend on the road, we spend two in the ditch.
Are you in the ditches right now? Here's how to get unstuck. Read "Ditches," my new blog post, on Medium.
It's so tempting to think of our existence as a series of goals, of destinations, of social media highlights. And sometimes it is. But more often than not, we struggle with feeling stuck. Discouraged. Our lives lack direction. Purpose.
As hard as we try, often convincingly, to portray ourselves as having it together, we don't. For every day we spend on the road, we spend two in the ditch.
Are you in the ditches right now? Here's how to get unstuck. Read "Ditches," my new blog post, on Medium.
GHOULISHLY GOOD COCKTAILS.
Halloween may have come and gone, but don't be scared.
It's not too late to try my latest ghoulishly good cocktails, as seen on KATU.
Watch my latest craft cocktail segment at https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/ghoulishly-good-cocktails.
Woopie!
It's not too late to try my latest ghoulishly good cocktails, as seen on KATU.
Watch my latest craft cocktail segment at https://katu.com/afternoon-live/cooking-recipes/ghoulishly-good-cocktails.
Woopie!
REAL MEN WEAR PINK ON HALLOWEEN.
Know what today is?
It's the final day of my Real Men Wear Pink campaign. Please join me in giving, and helping the American Cancer Society attack breast cancer from all angles. Click the pink button above to donate!
Oh yeah, and Happy Halloween.
Also, no squeezing, please.
It's the final day of my Real Men Wear Pink campaign. Please join me in giving, and helping the American Cancer Society attack breast cancer from all angles. Click the pink button above to donate!
Oh yeah, and Happy Halloween.
Also, no squeezing, please.
THE FALL ACCORDING TO FACEBOOK.
On June 24, 2019, I fell about 80 feet off of a mountain in Mexico, breaking 21 bones and narrowly escaping with my life.
Want to read Part One of the play-by-play account of my accident, hospitalization, surgery, and recovery, as told by my posts on Facebook, without having to sift endlessly through my timeline?
Here you go. Click HERE to read it on Medium.
Want to read Part One of the play-by-play account of my accident, hospitalization, surgery, and recovery, as told by my posts on Facebook, without having to sift endlessly through my timeline?
Here you go. Click HERE to read it on Medium.
BE A PART OF HISTORY.
Today, an ancient historical artifact can be yours for free if you give to my Real Men Wear Pink campaign at jondavidson.com and help me fight breast cancer.
That rare artifact is known as a CD.
One of my CDs, in fact.
Take your pick of any of my six albums, either solo or with my two most recent bands.
In Portland? Get a physical copy. Outside of Portland? I'll send you a digital copy, unless you don't mind paying for shipping.
Thanks for joining me in giving. Let's end cancer together.
That rare artifact is known as a CD.
One of my CDs, in fact.
Take your pick of any of my six albums, either solo or with my two most recent bands.
In Portland? Get a physical copy. Outside of Portland? I'll send you a digital copy, unless you don't mind paying for shipping.
Thanks for joining me in giving. Let's end cancer together.
CANCER DOESN'T TAKE EXCUSES.
When it comes to giving, it's easy to find a reason to put it off. Easy to find an excuse.
Cancer doesn't take excuses.
It's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I'm trying to raise $3K to help the American Cancer Society attack this deadly disease.
Join me in giving today. Click the Donate button above!
Also, watch me in pink in various places throughout my house, talking about cancer, on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/nAxfMnljTZ8
Cancer doesn't take excuses.
It's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I'm trying to raise $3K to help the American Cancer Society attack this deadly disease.
Join me in giving today. Click the Donate button above!
Also, watch me in pink in various places throughout my house, talking about cancer, on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/nAxfMnljTZ8
FEATURED IN THE DALLES CHRONICLE.
I'm famous in my part-time hometown!
Read the account of my fall on the front page of today's edition of The Dalles Chronicle.
Visit www.thedalleschronicle.com!
Read the account of my fall on the front page of today's edition of The Dalles Chronicle.
Visit www.thedalleschronicle.com!
REAL MEN WEAR PINK.
It's October again.
In other words, it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The American Cancer Society has asked me to be a Real Men Wear Pink participant again this year, along with CJ McCollum, Mitch & Corey, and many others.
Breast cancer has affected millions, including people you and I hold dear. This year, I'm trying to raise $3,000 to help the ACS attack breast cancer from every angle.
Please join me by giving through my RMWP page. Everything helps.
Click here: https://tinyurl.com/y3lvx7u9
In other words, it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The American Cancer Society has asked me to be a Real Men Wear Pink participant again this year, along with CJ McCollum, Mitch & Corey, and many others.
Breast cancer has affected millions, including people you and I hold dear. This year, I'm trying to raise $3,000 to help the ACS attack breast cancer from every angle.
Please join me by giving through my RMWP page. Everything helps.
Click here: https://tinyurl.com/y3lvx7u9
DISCHARGED. AGAINST MY WILL.
I am in the worst pain of my life.
I'm also currently getting discharged from Providence Portland Medical Center. Against my will. For the second time.
For the past six days, my post-op pain from my six- vertebrae spinal fusion surgery has been worse than the pain of my 90-foot fall itself, and worse than any of my prior injuries, such as biting off my tongue, detaching half my nose, and tearing my Achilles. It took Providence over 11 weeks to get surgery scheduled, and so by the time they finally did, so much cartilage and tissue and so many bones had to be rebroken, because my body was healing with over 20 degrees of kyphosis.
My pain is a 10 on the hospital pain scale. It's a pain that Dilaudid plus gabapentin plus acetaminophen plus toradol plus diclofenac, plus some Flexeril and Baclofen for my cramping muscles, can barely touch.
So what does this pain get me? This knife-in-my-back pain that leaves me screaming and in actual tears?
It gets me two extra hospital days, zero days of intravenous pain management, zero appointments with specialists, and two involuntary discharges from Providence Portland. Today's unwanted exit is courtesy of Dr. Liu, a hospitalist who left the only sympathetic bone in his body at home. A hospitalist so rude and condescending in terminating my care against my will that I'll be writing a special letter to his superiors and our senators about him.
I'll be left to fight this pain alone at home with fistfuls of drugs. This time, at least, doctors prescribed more than the Norco they sent me home with less than 40 hours after surgery.
Thoughtfully, Providence arranged for a medical transport van to get me home. A van that was 45 minutes late, and whose driver wheeled me in, buckled me up, and then kicked me out and left me in a hospital wheelchair on the sidewalk because a nurse had called to cancel the order after the driver's arrival.
Providence, please take the little crucifixes down from your hospital walls. I'm pretty sure Jesus would want nothing to do with the way you've treated me.
I'm also currently getting discharged from Providence Portland Medical Center. Against my will. For the second time.
For the past six days, my post-op pain from my six- vertebrae spinal fusion surgery has been worse than the pain of my 90-foot fall itself, and worse than any of my prior injuries, such as biting off my tongue, detaching half my nose, and tearing my Achilles. It took Providence over 11 weeks to get surgery scheduled, and so by the time they finally did, so much cartilage and tissue and so many bones had to be rebroken, because my body was healing with over 20 degrees of kyphosis.
My pain is a 10 on the hospital pain scale. It's a pain that Dilaudid plus gabapentin plus acetaminophen plus toradol plus diclofenac, plus some Flexeril and Baclofen for my cramping muscles, can barely touch.
So what does this pain get me? This knife-in-my-back pain that leaves me screaming and in actual tears?
It gets me two extra hospital days, zero days of intravenous pain management, zero appointments with specialists, and two involuntary discharges from Providence Portland. Today's unwanted exit is courtesy of Dr. Liu, a hospitalist who left the only sympathetic bone in his body at home. A hospitalist so rude and condescending in terminating my care against my will that I'll be writing a special letter to his superiors and our senators about him.
I'll be left to fight this pain alone at home with fistfuls of drugs. This time, at least, doctors prescribed more than the Norco they sent me home with less than 40 hours after surgery.
Thoughtfully, Providence arranged for a medical transport van to get me home. A van that was 45 minutes late, and whose driver wheeled me in, buckled me up, and then kicked me out and left me in a hospital wheelchair on the sidewalk because a nurse had called to cancel the order after the driver's arrival.
Providence, please take the little crucifixes down from your hospital walls. I'm pretty sure Jesus would want nothing to do with the way you've treated me.
BROKEN.
Tomorrow, I'm getting six of my thoracic vertebrae fused in the most serious surgery I've ever faced.
Finally.
My broken body is slowly being repaired. Our broken healthcare system is not.
I've written in detail about my seventy-seven-day sojourn of waiting, misdiagnoses, apathy, finger-pointing, and pain that has, at long last, led me to a surgeon's knife. You can read it here.
If you only read and share one story I've written, make it this story.
I'm hopeful that, in some small way, my painful journey can provoke awareness and change, through your help sharing my story, as well as through the help of the US Senators and Representatives I've contacted, so that those who follow in my footsteps have an easier time getting the care they desperately need.
Finally.
My broken body is slowly being repaired. Our broken healthcare system is not.
I've written in detail about my seventy-seven-day sojourn of waiting, misdiagnoses, apathy, finger-pointing, and pain that has, at long last, led me to a surgeon's knife. You can read it here.
If you only read and share one story I've written, make it this story.
I'm hopeful that, in some small way, my painful journey can provoke awareness and change, through your help sharing my story, as well as through the help of the US Senators and Representatives I've contacted, so that those who follow in my footsteps have an easier time getting the care they desperately need.
HELP THE BAHAMAS.
Just under three years ago, I fell in love with Grand Bahama Island.
Incredible beaches. Incredible sunsets. Incredible people, some of whom I'm still in touch with. Incredible hikes, which I wrote about here. Yes, even incredible tableside shark feedings.
It breaks my heart to think of the devastation this amazing island has suffered at the hands of Hurricane Dorian.
This morning, I gave to Mercy Corps, a Portland-based relief organization that is already on the ground in The Bahamas helping survivors and meeting the needs of those affected by the most powerful hurricane ever to hit this lovely island nation.
Join me. Visit www.mercycorps.org to help provide lifesaving aid that the people of The Bahamas so desperately need.
Incredible beaches. Incredible sunsets. Incredible people, some of whom I'm still in touch with. Incredible hikes, which I wrote about here. Yes, even incredible tableside shark feedings.
It breaks my heart to think of the devastation this amazing island has suffered at the hands of Hurricane Dorian.
This morning, I gave to Mercy Corps, a Portland-based relief organization that is already on the ground in The Bahamas helping survivors and meeting the needs of those affected by the most powerful hurricane ever to hit this lovely island nation.
Join me. Visit www.mercycorps.org to help provide lifesaving aid that the people of The Bahamas so desperately need.
CHEERS TO BACK-TO-SCHOOL.
Happy Labor Day and such.
Hard to believe it's back-to-school time already!
Parents, when you raise a glass to your children's ongoing education, why not fill that glass with one of my latest creations, as seen on KATU's Afternoon Live?
Try An Apple A Day, a Detention, or a Tea-cher's Pet. CBD? Charcoal? Kombucha? Apple cider vinegar? Old Tom gin? Check.
Click here to watch it!
I, for my part, will be raising a glass to the fact that I can stand for 10 or 15 minutes without too much pain, and do a few of the things from my pre-accident life that bring me happiness.
Cheers!
Hard to believe it's back-to-school time already!
Parents, when you raise a glass to your children's ongoing education, why not fill that glass with one of my latest creations, as seen on KATU's Afternoon Live?
Try An Apple A Day, a Detention, or a Tea-cher's Pet. CBD? Charcoal? Kombucha? Apple cider vinegar? Old Tom gin? Check.
Click here to watch it!
I, for my part, will be raising a glass to the fact that I can stand for 10 or 15 minutes without too much pain, and do a few of the things from my pre-accident life that bring me happiness.
Cheers!
YOUR CENTRAL OREGON GETAWAY AWAITS.
You know you want one last summer getaway.
My Central Oregon Airbnb just had last-minute cancellations for this Tuesday-Friday (9/3-9/6) and next Sunday-Wednesday (9/8-9/11).
It's a clean, stylish house in the heart of Redmond that sleeps 4 and that I've remodeled and decorated myself. It's five blocks or less from four breweries, 15 minutes from Smith Rock, and 15 minutes from Bend. Your stay includes a fridge stocked with craft beer.
Contact me directly and I'll get you a bargain-basement price. My real estate is my only real source of income at the moment, so your booking would help with my medical bills, as well.
Or, you can book directly through Airbnb by clicking here.
My Central Oregon Airbnb just had last-minute cancellations for this Tuesday-Friday (9/3-9/6) and next Sunday-Wednesday (9/8-9/11).
It's a clean, stylish house in the heart of Redmond that sleeps 4 and that I've remodeled and decorated myself. It's five blocks or less from four breweries, 15 minutes from Smith Rock, and 15 minutes from Bend. Your stay includes a fridge stocked with craft beer.
Contact me directly and I'll get you a bargain-basement price. My real estate is my only real source of income at the moment, so your booking would help with my medical bills, as well.
Or, you can book directly through Airbnb by clicking here.
THE WAITING GAME.
I can't wait for spinal fusion surgery.
Like a jet circling an airport, waiting for the fog to clear, I'm currently stuck in a holding pattern, waiting for my neurosurgeon to read my most recent MRIs and waiting for insurance to approve my surgery before I can get it scheduled. And so I wait.
The truth is, we are all waiting. Waiting for the right person. The right job. The right opportunity. The right time. Waiting for life to get better.
Grains of sand fall relentlessly through the hourglass of life, grains whose descent will slow down for no one.
What are you waiting for? Are you making the most of your fleeting time while you wait?
Don't wait to read my latest blog post, The Waiting Game, on Medium.
Like a jet circling an airport, waiting for the fog to clear, I'm currently stuck in a holding pattern, waiting for my neurosurgeon to read my most recent MRIs and waiting for insurance to approve my surgery before I can get it scheduled. And so I wait.
The truth is, we are all waiting. Waiting for the right person. The right job. The right opportunity. The right time. Waiting for life to get better.
Grains of sand fall relentlessly through the hourglass of life, grains whose descent will slow down for no one.
What are you waiting for? Are you making the most of your fleeting time while you wait?
Don't wait to read my latest blog post, The Waiting Game, on Medium.
CLIMBING MT. ST. HELENS.
On May 3, 2019, some crazy kids and I climbed Mt. St. Helens.
While this was my third time summiting Washington's most famous volcano, the group I was with made it arguably my favorite climb yet. From WWE voice-overs to Quasimodo butts to Pooparazzi to Silver Bullet shotgunning, there was no shortage of entertainment along the way.
Catch all the climbing, all the glissading, all the ridiculousness, and all the amazing summit crater views in my latest YouTube video, Climbing Mt. St. Helens.
Click here to watch it! It's like climbing the mountain yourself, minus the eight thousand burned calories.
While this was my third time summiting Washington's most famous volcano, the group I was with made it arguably my favorite climb yet. From WWE voice-overs to Quasimodo butts to Pooparazzi to Silver Bullet shotgunning, there was no shortage of entertainment along the way.
Catch all the climbing, all the glissading, all the ridiculousness, and all the amazing summit crater views in my latest YouTube video, Climbing Mt. St. Helens.
Click here to watch it! It's like climbing the mountain yourself, minus the eight thousand burned calories.
DON'T JUST TRAVEL. RAYKA.
Wondering what I've been doing with my 20 daily hours of lying in bed?
Writing travel recommendations, of course.
Rayka, the world's first social recommendation platform for travel, has asked me to be one of their founding Travel Experts. Rayka is an incredible app based on trustworthy recommendations, not biased 1 to 5 star reviews. Full disclosure? I'm not paid or compensated by Rayka in any way, so when I say it's awesome, it's awesome.
Not on board? Get the app, then head off the beaten path, checking out my recommendations for the best hikes in Peru, the most Instagram-worthy places in Montenegro, what to do during your four days in Cuba, and much more.
Real people. Real reviews. Real experiences.
Don't just travel. Rayka.
Writing travel recommendations, of course.
Rayka, the world's first social recommendation platform for travel, has asked me to be one of their founding Travel Experts. Rayka is an incredible app based on trustworthy recommendations, not biased 1 to 5 star reviews. Full disclosure? I'm not paid or compensated by Rayka in any way, so when I say it's awesome, it's awesome.
Not on board? Get the app, then head off the beaten path, checking out my recommendations for the best hikes in Peru, the most Instagram-worthy places in Montenegro, what to do during your four days in Cuba, and much more.
Real people. Real reviews. Real experiences.
Don't just travel. Rayka.
THE PAIN THAT LIES BENEATH.
Everybody hurts.
Not everyone has nineteen fractures. But, whether broken bones or a broken heart, pain comes for us all, and lies beneath the skin of each and every human.
It’s through being honest about our own pain that we find the heart to help others through theirs. It’s in weakness that we are strong.
Without pain, there can be no healing.
Read my latest blog post, "The Pain That Lies Beneath," on Medium!
https://medium.com/@jondavidson/the-pain-that-lies-beneath-6a6f98e6393a
Not everyone has nineteen fractures. But, whether broken bones or a broken heart, pain comes for us all, and lies beneath the skin of each and every human.
It’s through being honest about our own pain that we find the heart to help others through theirs. It’s in weakness that we are strong.
Without pain, there can be no healing.
Read my latest blog post, "The Pain That Lies Beneath," on Medium!
https://medium.com/@jondavidson/the-pain-that-lies-beneath-6a6f98e6393a
WHAT REALLY MATTERS.
Sometimes, it takes falling off a mountain and breaking more bones than you knew you had to remind you of what's most important.
What's most important to Jon Davidson, you ask? Is it travel? Adventure? Waterfalls? Music? Writing? Real estate investment? Tasty cocktails? Hardly. While all of these are fine and good, there is nothing more important than people. Period. Yesterday, I returned to KATU for my first mixology segment since my accident. Though still in a lot of pain, I'm now able to stand for a little longer each day. Also, Kathleen was kind enough to do all the heavy lifting for me. Once I walked through the station's doors, I was immediately reminded that KATU's people are the absolute best. Between checking in on me countless times while I was in the hospital, sponsoring my fundraiser, putting up with me canceling several segments last minute due to my slow recovery, and scolding me, deservedly, for climbing mountains, I can't say thanks enough to Tra'Renee, Kara, and the rest of the team for being the most amazing team in TV, period. Now that I've established what really matters, you should still watch yesterday's South of the Border Summer Cocktails segment. My Pearto Vallarta, Volcán de Tequila, and Holé Molé cocktails are pretty darn tasty. Plus, I rock a sombrero, if I do say so myself. The end. MIGHTY CLEMENTINE.
Here's what you should do this Saturday.
Come to Labrewatory in Portland. Celebrate Clementine, a spunky 6-year-old who heroically survived a brain aneurysm. Try the super secret special beer that's been brewed just for this occasion. Support Randall Children's Hospital as they help more amazing kids become walking miracles. Also, I'm in need of one more band to play on the outdoor stage, so if you or someone you love is talented and available, let me know. For more information, directions, and sponsors, visit Mighty Clementine's Facebook event! LET ME JUDGE YOU.
So you call yourself a mixologist?
I'll be the judge of that. There's still time for you to enter HAY! Straws' Summer Cocktail Contest! We've decided to extend the contest till September 1! Follow @haystraws on social media, create the best summer cocktail ever, post it, use the hashtag #HAYsummer, and throw an incredible, environmentally conscious HAY! straw in it. I'll be judging the competition after September 1. Have what it takes? Enter, then sit back and win! Pictured here? My Serrano-Kiwi Arugularita, as seen on KATU. THANK YOU.
Since a boulder knocked me off a 70-foot cliff in Mexico 12 days ago, I have had a lot of time to lay in this hospital bed and think.
I've been thinking a lot about how grateful and humbled I am by the outpouring of prayers, well wishes, and encouragement I've received. People reaching out from all over the world, asking how they can help, what they can do. I've also been thinking about how I am so incredibly thankful for the financial generosity so many of you have shown. I am not one to ask for money, ever, but the fact that my health insurance doesn't cover a penny of my surgeries, hospitalization, scans, medicine, or medical care in Mexico, and the fact that I have no sick pay at work to my name, has left me in a tight spot. Without me saying a word, people like Evan, Jamie, Rachel, Brad, Rebecca, Peter, and more have stepped forward to raise money to help cover some of my mounting medical bills. And so many of you have donated online and/or will be attending, donating to, or performing at the fundraiser that Labrewatory and Dawn Patrol Coffee are hosting on July 13. I don't deserve this. I'm a flawed human being who makes a lot of mistakes. Your kindness has brought tears to my eyes every single day of this ordeal. It hurts to cry with a collapsed lung and broken ribs, but it's so worth it. From the bottom of my heart (which is actually still intact), thank you. Thank you. ANSWERS.
We all have questions that demand answers.
For the past seven weeks, I've been searching for answers, going from doctor to doctor, getting tested for everything under the sun to try to figure out my current health issues. I am not alone. We all spend our lives looking for answers. However, if those answers are never found, what happens then to the life that has staked its claim on finding them? If our faith is only based on proof, is it faith at all? Could it be that in the unanswered questions, genuine faith is born? Faith that doesn’t falter when things don’t go our way, when our health fails, our friends turn their backs, our loved ones die? Read my latest blog post, "Answers," on Medium! A DAY TO REMEMBER CLASSIC COCKTAILS.
Memorial Day is all about remembering. So, this holiday weekend, I'd like to help you remember a few classic summer cocktails, including my take on an old fashioned, a clover club, and a gin & tonic.
Watch me throw in ingredients like hazy IPA, a flamed orange peel, bitter artichoke liqueur, egg whites, and more on my latest KATU segment with Tra'Renee from a few days ago! Also, peep my sweet 'Merica onesie. FREE REDMOND SHOW ON MAY 18!
I'll be playing a free show at the Hoopla at Geist Beerworks on Saturday, May 18!
Geist, brewers of some of the best beer in the State of Oregon, will be celebrating their ribbon cutting and the official grand opening of Hoggy Style BBQ, their in-house food cart, with a weekend of fun, games, and food and drink specials, as well as music by yours truly! I'll be playing from 7 to 8 PM on Saturday. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome! Don't miss this, Redmond. For more information, or for an easy way to invite your friends, visit this show's Facebook event! CARLTON COCKTAIL WALK MAY 11!
This Mother's Day Weekend, do something uniquely special for your mother and take her to the Carlton Cocktail Walk! On May 11, I'll be the featured mixologist at Carlton, Oregon's second-ever Walk, and will be crafting four different uniquely local cocktails of my creation all over town! I'll be bouncing around between Bull Run Distillery, Carlton and Coast, and Republic of Jam. I might even make a sneaky appearance at the top-secret speakeasy, if you are lucky enough to find it.
Come down. Bring your moms. Bring your friends. Bring your friends' moms. Enjoy. The event lasts from 1 to 6 PM. For more information, visit www.carltoncocktailwalk.com! FREE PORTLAND SHOW MAY 7!
Oh hey, Portland.
I'll be back at LABrewatory, one of the finest breweries in all the land, for a free show on Tuesday, May 7! It's all-ages. It's early. It's $0. I would love to see you there! Thanks for supporting independent, local live music. For more information, or for an easy way to invite your friends, visit this show's Facebook event! HOW about a Quince-iñera?
It's Dos de Mayo. Do you know what you're drinking for Cinco yet?
Don't say a Corona. You're better than that. How about a Mexican Mimosa, a Serrano Kiwi Arugularita, or a Quince-iñera? Buena respuesta. Watch my latest segment on Portland's KATU here! THE GREAT WALL IN 3 HOURS!
So Kathleen and I visited the Great Wall of China.
We tried to run, jump and frolic its entire length. We fell a bit short. We did, however, cram as much into 180 minutes as we could. Skipping. Tripping. Cat whispering. Even some cornography. We climbed to the top of the wall at Juyong Pass, taking in majestic views of one of the wonders of the world along the way. Click here to watch our latest travel video, The Great Wall in Three Hours! It's six minutes of grabbing life by the walls. EASTER COCKTAILS.
Easter has come and gone, but you can still watch me pour a Honey Bunny into the body of a savagely decapitated chocolate rabbit. If you're a chocolate animal rights activist, though, you should probably look away.
I hop you enjoy three of my newest cocktails (and my bunny ears) on my latest Afternoon Live segment on KATU! XI'AN IN 36 HOURS.
In February of 2019, Kathleen and I visited Xi'an, a 'small' Chinese city of only 8 million people. Though virtually unheard-of by much of the world, Xi'an (pronounced She-On) boasts the world-famous Terra Cotta Army, an incredible 14th-century city wall, and vibrant arts and nightlife.
Accompanied by Tonia and Naomi, two amazing people we ended up traveling with, we quickly fell in love with this underappreciated metropolis while narrowly avoiding death on a tandem bike, eating cabbage off of street planter boxes, fending off pesky balloon animal salespeople, struggling to open wine bottles, and much more. Watch our latest travel video, XI'AN IN 36 HOURS, here! TRAVEL THERAPY.
Do you want to be healthy? Obviously. Get exercise? Check. Lower stress? Improve your relationships? Fight off depression? Check, check, and check.
Try travel therapy. It might be the best decision you ever make. Travel isn't a luxury. It's a necessity. For health. For happiness. Don't believe me? Read my latest blog post, "Travel Therapy." I feel like it's one of the most important subjects I've ever written about, and I hope that after reading, you'll agree. TAKE YOUR TASTEBUDS SOMEWHERE TROPICAL.
Spring Break isn't over yet. It's not too late to take your tastebuds somewhere tropical with one of my three latest cocktails, as seen on KATU's Afternoon Live.
Try a watermelon-infused South Padre Sangria, a Pickled Strawberry Margarita, or a sweet and spicy A Little Paloma Gose Berry Long Way! Click here to check out the segment, if only to peep my sweet shades and too-tight shirt. BEIJING IN 48 HOURS.
Last month, Kathleen and I spent 48 hours in Beijing, China. We toured incredible temples. Imitated birds, goats, and statues. Joined impromptu public park singalongs. Walked upwards of 25 miles. Coughed up multiple lungs. Narrowly avoided eating dried chicken meat floss.
Now, for your eyes only, here is our latest travel video: Beijing in 48 Hours. You'll feel like you were there, or your money back. Click here to watch it on YouTube! YOUR LUCKY TASTEBUDS.
Even though St. Patrick's Day is over, your tastebuds can still get lucky when you treat them to one of my latest cocktails.
How about a Pot o' Gold, a Spunky Leprechaun, or an Everybody's Irish? Check out my latest KATU segment with the one and only Tra'Renee. Click here! CHINA: EN ROUTE FOR THIRTY HOURS.
Kathleen and I just visited China. The trip there took thirty hours. Ever wonder what Kathleen and I do during a 30-hour travel day?
The answer, of course, involves a lot of open-mouth chewing and double baby birding. Watch our China: En Route For 30 Hours video at your own risk. TRAVEL THERAPY.
Do you want to be healthy? Emotionally, physically, relationally, spiritually?
Try travel therapy. Instead of another trip to the pharmacy, the therapist, or the ice cream shop, why not plan a trip to a different continent? I'll be speaking on the proven health benefits of travel at the Holistic Wellness Expo in Vancouver, WA this Saturday, March 9, at 11! LIQUID LOVE.
Valentine's Day has come and gone, but you can still show your tastebuds you love them all year round with my three latest liquid love libations, as seen on KATU.
Watch my latest Afternoon Live appearance in its entirety here: https://katu.com/afternoon-live/lifestyle-health/sweetheart-cocktails MOROCCO IN 72 HOURS.
Morocco is an incredibly diverse country, boasting everything from snowcapped mountains to windswept deserts. In November of 2018, we tried to cram as much Morocco as we could into 72 hours. In that short timespan, we still managed to get lost for hours in the alleyways of Fes, explore a magical blue city, hike to some tiny waterfalls, and fend stray cats off of our restaurant table.
Click here to watch my new video, Morocco in 72 Hours. It's four minutes that you can't get back. FREE SHOW AT LABREWATORY MARCH 19!
I'll be playing a free concert at LABrewatory, one of Portland's finest and most experimental breweries, on Tuesday, March 19!
The show starts at 7. I'll be playing acoustic, and debuting a couple of brand-new songs I've been working on. Grab a pint of LABrewatory's award-winning beer, sit back, and enjoy the show. If beer isn't your thing, try a caffeinated beverage by Dawn Patrol! Admission is $0. I guarantee you'll have fun, or your money back. For more information, or for an easy way to invite your friends, visit this show's Facebook event! 216 HouRS IN SPAIN.
Last November, some of my favorite people and I spent nine days in Spain. We rented a car and drove everywhere, frolicked across mountain towns and beaches, drank vermouth straight, hiked waterfalls, danced at carousels, snored like bears, skipped laundry and bought clothes, climbed castles, and crammed as much ridiculousness as we could into 216 hours.
Don't believe me? Watch for yourself on YouTube! https://youtu.be/R4a4tWCcXeY FREE SHOW IN HOOD RIVER.
Hood River, Oregon, has often been voted one of the best small towns in the United States, due to its natural beauty, abundance of scenery, copious amounts of breweries and wineries, and charming downtown streets.
It also has a thriving music scene, one that I am honored to be a part of this coming Sunday, January 13. I'll be playing a free show at 64 Taphouse downtown at 5 PM. You should come and stuff. For more info, visit this show's Facebook event. IT's 2019. DRINK UP.
Here's what you should drink to ring in 2019.
Better yet, here's what you should drink throughout 2019. Watch my latest KATU mixology segment here, featuring my latest creations, Thymes Square, Year of the Pig, and Not Your Father's Black Velvet. OF WINE AND CHRISTMAS.
Still in the mood for a Christmas cocktail, but in need of some antioxidants and probiotics?
Try my latest holiday creation, the Bourbon Bucha Berry, in collaboration with Underwood and Brew Dr. Kombucha, as featured at unionwinecompany.com and instagram.com/unionwinecompany. CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS.
Sometimes, great Christmas presents come in liquid form.
Check out my Yuletide creations, including my Cranberry Ginger Manhattan and Chestnuts Roasting on a Very Contained Fire, on my latest segment on Portland's KATU, then go give the gift of these cocktails to family and friends. Also, apparently all I wear is my Christmas onesie these days. Watch the segment here! AT BIT HOUSE IN PORTLAND JANUARY 3.
It's official.
This year, the holidays don't end until after my show at Bit House in Portland January 3. I'll be playing with Kivett Bednar, My Friend, The Monster, and Head the Hive. It'll be a night of diverse, passionate, energetic Portland music. Be there. Need more information? Visit this show's Facebook event. STREAM MY SHOW WITH STRYPER. FOR FREE.
Missed my show with Stryper at the Bossanova Ballroom in Portland a couple weeks ago?
Not anymore. Watch my set in its entirety tonight, free of charge. wolfandthunder.com/jd REdUCKULOUS. UNBEAVERLIEVABLE.
The Civil War Game may have come and gone, but the season isn't over.
Well, not for the Ducks, anyway. It's not too late to watch me craft a Reduckulous and an Unbeaverlievable, featuring Eugene and Corvallis spirits, of course. Also, it's not too late to watch me bartend in a Snuggie for the very first time in recorded history. Click here to watch history in the making. FREE SHOW IN THE DALLES THIS THURSDAY. Photo by Kenton Waltz
I'll be playing my first show in my new part-time hometown of The Dalles, OR this Thursday, November 29!
The show will take place at one of my favorite local establishments, Freebridge Brewing, downtown. I'll be playing from 7-9 PM. Did I mention it's free? For more information, or for an easy way to invite those you care about most, visit this show's Facebook event! STRYPER. JON DAVIDSON. PDX. NOVEMBER 9.
The Yellow and Black Attack is back.
Stryper, the most successful Christian metal band of all time, is coming to Portland. They'll be playing at the Bossanova Ballroom next Saturday, November 9, and it's an honor for me to announce that I've been asked to share the bill with them. Best known for their high-energy show, their yellow and black costumes, and hits such as "To Hell With The Devil," Stryper has sold more than 10 million albums, and they're still going strong. Tickets are available for only $25! Visit my Store or buy them below. For more information, or for an easy way to invite your friends, visit this show's Facebook event! LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.
My name is Jon Davidson, and I'm an American.
I care about this country deeply. I’ve been to all 50 states, and continue to be amazed by the beauty, the diversity, and the people that make America great. The 2018 election is just days away, and its results hold dramatic implications for our country. It's time to vote. As you do so, don’t be swayed by rhetoric of hate, of fear, or of lies; choose to vote for love, for inclusion, for our planet, and for our future. Long after the ballots have been cast and counted, I will not give up the belief that the United States of America stands for liberty and justice for all. Will you join me? Read the full blog post on Medium. HALLOWEEN COCKTAILS? BUT OF CORPSE.
It's almost Halloween.
Chances are, you need a Morgue-arita or a But of Corpse to go with that costume of yours. Watch Kara of Afternoon Live, Helen of AMNW, and Pippi Jonstocking craft some spooky cocktails on KATU. Click here! DRINK PINK.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
As you wear pink in support, remember that it's important for your drinks to match your clothes. Check out my three pink drinks on KATU's Afternoon Live! #drinkpink To donate to the American Cancer Society, visit jondavidson.com. REAL MEN WEAR PINK.
This October, the American Cancer Society has asked me to be a part of Real Men Wear Pink, an group of male community leaders who don pink apparel to raise awareness and money to help the ACS fight breast cancer and help save the lives of those affected by this deadly disease.
As someone who has lost a friend to breast cancer and lost numerous friends and family members to other forms of cancer, this is a cause that is near and dear to my heart. If you'd like to contribute, please visit my ACS donation page. 
NATIONAL PUNCH DAY.
National Punch Day may have come and gone, but don't forget: countless upcoming parties and football games demand a superior punch.
Need some ideas? Check out my three latest creations, including the Grapericot, the Pisqiwi Pear, and Punch? Wine Not?, on KATU's Afternoon Live! Click here. MY NOLA COCKTAILS. AMAZING NAWLINS FOOD. TACKY COSTUMES. SEPTEMBER 22.
On Saturday, September 22, I'll be co-hosting the Costume Mardi Pardi! Halfway to Mardi Gras Pop-Up Dinner in Portland, OR! Bring your friends to enjoy this inaugural event at Indie Cottage PDX on Hawthorne. New Orleanian Ms. Bonnie, of Oh Honey Cookery, will be cooking up 5 different down-home Nawlins dishes for you to enjoy with your Sazerac! Gavant your costumed wonderfulness to Trad Jazz.
I'll be crafting my take on, and demonstrating how to make, the perfect Absinthe Sazerac, as well as three other traditional NoLa cocktails featuring local distilleries. It's my first time co-hosting an event like this, and I'm really excited! Only 20 tickets will be sold for this special event! Your ticket includes Creole-Cajun Sampling Menu, 1 Southern cocktail, OR 2 beers, OR 2 glasses of wine. Additional drinks available for purchase at the CASH BAR. For tickets, click here! For more information, check out the Facebook event. LABOR DAY LIBATIONS.
Labor Day has come and gone.
Fortunately for you, my latest libations are good all year round. Check out my most recent mixology segment, featuring the Stumptown Sazerac and the PB&J, on Portland's KATU, Channel 2! Click here. JAMIE FOR OREGON.
Yesterday, I got to have a meaningful conversation with Jamie McLeod-Skinner, who is running against incumbent Greg Walden for Oregon's 2nd District seat in the US House of Representatives.
We discussed important issues, such as the environment, healthcare, and education, issues that affect virtually every American and that, bafflingly, have become increasingly partisan matters in recent years. Jamie lives not too far from my house in Redmond, and has logged tens of thousands of miles these past few months, listening to the stories and the concerns of Oregonians both red and blue throughout our state's massive 2nd District. She is committed to being a representative that shows up and cares about Oregon, not just a particular party's agenda. I highly recommend you help "drain the swamp" and vote for Jamie in November. NATIONAL RUM DAY.
Rum. It's not just for sickeningly sweet Mai Tais and Zombies anymore. It's actually a versatile spirit that complements an infinite amount of cocktail flavor profiles.
Watch my National Rum Day segment on Portland's KATU for three of my own creations, featuring amazing local Portland-area rums from distilleries such as Rose City, Trail, and Eastside! SO YOU WANT TO CLIMB A VOLCANO.
So you want to climb a bona fide 15,000' volcano.
All you have is a single day and a pair of hiking boots. Not a problem. Ecuador’s Rucu Pichincha is the peak for you. Conveniently located just outside Quito, Ecuador’s capital city, Rucu Pichincha is the fast food drive thru of volcanoes. It’s easy to access and climb in a morning’s time. Trust me. I did it. Read all about the climb and the ensuing bragging rights on my blog. BEAT THE HEAT.
If it looks like summer and tastes like summer, it's probably one of my summer cocktails.
Watch my KATU segment for three recipes for sunshine in a glass, including Im Peach Mint, Probably the Healthiest Cocktail in the History of Ever, and Wildflower. Click here to beat the heat! WHAT IS SUCCESS?
What is success? Is it defined by dollar bills? By fame? By a hit single?
Or is it defined by love? By giving? By authenticity? Watch an excerpt of my interview on From The Hip with Adrianne Gunn, if only for my rad blinking Christmas sweater. NATIONAL TEQUILA DAY.
National Tequila Day may have come and gone, but it's never too late to watch my latest mixology segment on KATU.
Check out all the ridiculousness with Tra'Renee and yours truly, as well as my three new cocktails: Tequila Mockingbird, The Donkey Kicker, and Prickly Pear. Click here to watch it! MARCAHUASI, PERU.
You've heard of Machu Picchu, of course. But have you heard of Peru's other mystical, mountainous marvel, Marcahuasi?
Last month, we visited this profoundly puzzling yet peaceful place, perched at 12,500' in the Andes Mountains, wandering between rock formations that looked like human faces and elephants, and crawling into prehistoric tombs. Were Marcahuasi's strange stone specters formed by erosion, by human hands, or even by alien visitors, as some locals suggest? Maybe you should go see them and decide for yourself. Read about my latest adventure on Medium! MAKE SURE YOUR COCKTAILS TASTE LIKE FREEDOM.
It's the 4th of July. Still don't know what to drink?
Try one of my three latest creations, featuring everything from coffee cherry liqueur to Pop Rocks to Redneck Riviera whiskey. They are all guaranteed to taste like freedom. Check out my latest 'Merica mixology clip with the one and only Tra'Renee on KATU. Click here! COCKTAILS FOR DAD.
This Father's Day, don't get your poor pops another "World's Greatest Dad" mug. Anyone can hit a button and order something on Amazon.
Instead, show him you actually care by crafting him one of my three Father's Day cocktails, which feature local spirits, local mixers, and even local barbecue sauce. Watch my latest KATU mixology segment HERE! SO YOU HAVE A LAYOVER IN ICELAND.
You did it. You bought one of those ridiculously low-priced flights to Europe.
The kicker? An 18-hour layover in Iceland. Now, you’re attempting to plan your itinerary for your brief stay in the Land of Fire and Ice, and you’re overwhelmed with the sheer number of natural wonders that you absolutely can’t miss. Don’t worry. I’ve been in your shoes. Here’s my guide to Iceland power tourism: geysers, waterfalls, rift valleys, craft beer, and even wild horses, all crammed into an action-packed day. Read my new blog post, "So You Have A Layover In Iceland," on Medium! DRINK YOUR EASTER BUNNY.
Easter 2019 is a mere 381 days away.
Better get planning. Get a head start by watching my latest Easter mixology segment on Afternoon Live on KATU, Portland's Channel 2. Cocktails include "Excuse Me, There's A Hare In My Drink," and more. Click HERE to watch the segment! GO GREEN.
Friends don't let friends drink green beer on St. Patrick's Day.
Instead, they class things up with a Pepperechaun, Five-Leaf Clover, or an Oregon Prius Bomb. Maybe even a Sober Irishman, if they're driving. Check out my most recent mixology segment on Portland's KATU HERE! CHEERS TO 150 CALORIE COCKTAILS.Craft cocktails don't have to be calorie bombs.
Check out my latest mixology segment on Portland's KATU, Channel 2, featuring three cocktails of my creation that each contain 150 calories or less. Trust me, I counted them myself. Cheers to drinking a bit more healthfully. Watch the segment. Click here. FRUIT.
Just as fruit doesn’t discriminate when it comes to who eats it, true love doesn’t discriminate when it comes to its recipient.
All the religion in the world is useless if it doesn’t lead to love. Love for everyone. Muslim, Christian, Sikh, atheist. Gay, straight, trans. Asian, African, Arab, American, Antarctican. This is the fruit the world needs to see, to taste. Read my latest blog post, "Fruit," on Medium. HAPPY PRESIDENTS' DAY.
Today, I celebrate the first 44 presidents of the United States of America. Men who, despite their ideological differences and infrequent moral missteps, were by and large decent human beings who cared about the well-being of every American, not just the white, male, and rich. Men who would never think to try to use horrific mass shootings to pat themselves on the back. Men who cared more about governing than about golf. Men who could look the evils of racism and misogyny in the face and denounce them as such. Men who didn't have scores of pending sexual harassment accusations against them. Men who understood that making America great didn't have to come at the expense of the rest of the world. Men who handled the rigors of the office with dignity, not with petulant, bullying, grammatically incorrect tweets.
So, here's to you, presidents one through forty-four. LIQUID LOVE.
Missed all the Valentine's tomfoolery on Portland's KATU? Here you go.
Watch me craft three tasty cocktails featuring almost entirely local spirits and mixers, and a little bit of liquid love. Drink up. Click here. AMBASSADORS.
On a rainy night in Novi Sad, Serbia, our rental car got towed. Stumbling into a nearby bistro to figure out how to get it back, we met a server named Nebojša who showed us an incredible amount of undeserved kindness, completely turning our night around. He knew that he was an ambassador for his restaurant, his city, and his country.
Truthfully, we’re all ambassadors. No matter where we’re from or what we believe, others base their opinions of countries, religions, and political ideologies on their interactions with us. It's time we start taking our jobs seriously. Read the full story in my latest blog post, AMBASSADORS. SUPER BOWL COCKTAILS.
Still don't know what to drink for the Super Bowl? Here are a couple ideas, courtesy of my most recent mixology segment on KATU, Portland's Channel 2!
Also, you can watch me mispronounce a spirit, misidentify a distillery, and accidentally utter a registered trademark. Hey, nobody's perfect. Watch all the fun with Tra'Renee and yours truly HERE. FA LA LA LA LOTS OF CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS.
Christmas is the season of giving. It's also the season of cocktails.
Watch Tra'Renee and I have all the fun bringing the Yuletide liquid cheer to your face in my latest mixology segment on Portland's KATU. Click here. CHRISTMAS CHANGE.
Today, I'm heading halfway around the world, spending Christmas alone in airports and airplanes, to begin a new chapter of my life, one without much of a script. I want to follow Jesus, not tell him where I'm going.
I've shared some of my journey these last few months in my new blog post, "Christmas Change." This Christmas, I ask you to take time to listen. Listen to those Salvation Army bells, and recognize the big impact a little change can make. Listen to what that baby in that manger two millennia ago is telling you. Listen to what choices he might want you to make, next steps he might want you to take. Listen when he confronts you with the radical truth that he is madly in love with you, and let that change everything. Click here to read my blog post in its entirety on Medium! PEACE.
Just over two thousand years ago, a baby was born.
This baby promised to bring peace to a broken, violent world. Instead of peace, we have Aleppo. Rwanda. Belfast. Ground Zero. Mogadishu. Charlottesville. Where is this promised peace? Read my blog post, "Peace," on Medium. LEE DEWYZE AND JON DAVIDSON. PORTLAND. DECEMBER 8.
I'll be opening for American Idol winner Lee DeWyze in Portland on December 8!
The show will take place at the Bossanova Ballroom. Doors open at 7, and the show is 21+. We'll both be playing solo and acoustic. Want the cheapest tickets in the land, with no surcharges or fees? Visit my store or click the button below. THANKSGIVING COCKTAILS!
Thanksgiving is upon us. Do you know which holiday cocktails you're making yet?
I have a couple ideas. Check out my latest mixology segment on KATU's Afternoon Live, featuring the succinctly and modestly named Arguably The Greatest Pumpkin Pie Martini In The History Of Ever, and more! RAIN INTO RAINBOWS.
It’s easy to give thanks for things we naturally should be thankful for. Family. Friends. Ice cream. Sunshine. Puppies. Singing Japanese bidets.
It’s slightly more difficult, yet important, to give thanks in spite of our circumstances. But I challenge you, and myself, to take it one step further. I challenge you, and myself, to give thanks FOR our difficult circumstances. To recognize that it is because of, and through, hardship that we grow, change, and learn. Read my latest blog post, "Rain Into Rainbows," on Medium! ST. JUDE AUTUMN HARVEST.
On October 13, 2017, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is hosting their annual Autumn Harvest at The Exchange Ballroom in Portland, featuring an eight-course meal crafted by some of Stumptown's finest culinary talent.
One of the items for sale in the event's benefit auction? A personal mixology course, courtesy of yours truly. All proceeds go towards the lifesaving mission of St. Jude, an incredible organization dedicated to finding cures for catastrophic children's diseases and giving kids lifesaving treatment they otherwise couldn't afford. Tickets are still available. Click here to purchase. Or, if you can't attend, you can still click this link and donate! GOOD GRIEF: FINDING STRENGTH IN SORROW.
Sorrow is inescapable. Whether it’s circumstances happening in your own life, or events taking place in this broken world, it’s hard to go any amount of time without a valid reason to grieve.
We go to great lengths to run from sadness, not realizing that we're missing enormous opportunities to grow. Have the skies turned dark in your life? My advice is simple: give grief its day, but grieve with hope. Read my new blog post, "Good Grief: Finding Strength In Sorrow," on Medium. GRACE.
At a superficial level, it’s easy to convince myself that I’m a pretty good person. I call my mother. I sponsor kids in Africa. But when I delve deeper, I see a man who is selfish to the core. A man who repeats the same mistakes. A man in desperate need of grace.
Grace is the single most life-changing truth this planet has ever known. It's the only answer to the brokenness in my heart and the brokenness in this cold world. Read GRACE: A Dying World Comes Back To Life on Medium. OKTOBERFEST COCKTAILS!
So you want to keep the Oktoberfest party going, but switch things up a bit? I recently created and featured three Oktoberfest-themed cocktails on KATU Channel 2's Afternoon Live show in Portland.
Kids, try these at home. But, only if you're over 21, of course. Check out the segment here! CHARLOTTESVILLE.
We all have rights. However, white supremacy is not a right. It is hatred. Plowing a car into a group of nonviolent protesters is not freedom of speech. It is hatred.
The President pussyfooting around yesterday’s terrorist attack isn’t being politically correct. It is hatred. This. Is. Not. America. Read my new blog, "Charlottesville," on Medium! ONE PHONE CALL AWAY.
So you have your pretty little life.
Until that phone call that changes everything. The truth is, we are all one phone call away. One phone call away from a life deconstructed. From watching everything we have worked so hard for crumble to the ground. What is your foundation? Where do you derive your happiness, your sense of meaning? Where do you find your identity in this fragile world that so easily falls apart? Read "One Phone Call Away" on Medium! BOOK MY REDMOND AIRBNB!
I'm excited to announce that after several months of hard work, remodeling, and furnishing, my Airbnb in Redmond, Oregon, is open for booking!
Time to plan that Central Oregon vacation you've been longing for! My place is right in the heart of Redmond, 15 minutes from Smith Rock, 15 minutes from Bend, and 25 minutes from Sisters. Three breweries are six blocks or less from my house, and amazing restaurants and boutique shops are within walking distance. My place has one bedroom and one bathroom, and can sleep five. Also, it has cornhole. 'Nuff said. For all the deets, and to book, visit my Airbnb listing: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/20157024 SUMMER COCKTAILS.Summer weather calls for summer cocktails.
Friends don't let friends drink Bud Light Lime Strawberitas. Try the three sunny libations I crafted on KATU Channel 2's Afternoon Live show instead. They feature local spirits from Bull Run Distillery and Rolling River Distillery, and local, organic produce. Check out the segment HERE if the above video player isn't supported. MY TIME WITH LYME.
Today marks the second anniversary of the day I contracted Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.
731 days and countless antibiotics later, I’m ecstatic to report that I feel like myself once again. Getting here has been a long and taxing process, though. Here’s my story. I share it not to elicit sympathy for past suffering, but to raise awareness, and to hopefully help and inspire those with Lyme who are in misery and don’t know where to turn. Read "My Time With Lyme" on Medium! FROM SEA TO SHAMEFUL SEA.
This Fourth of July, you may be tempted to ask: When did we lose our way as a nation? Where did we go wrong?
Allow me to answer those queries with another question: When have we actually gotten it right? Oh, that our hearts were as beautiful as our land. Read my new blog post, "From Sea To Shameful Sea," on Medium! BREATHE.
I prefer to live my life at the speed of a cheetah on meth. Life is short, and I don’t plan on wasting any of mine.
Sometimes, though, I wonder if I keep my schedule too full for the unexpected magic of life to take place. Sometimes, I wonder if I need to take the time to breathe. Check out my new blog post, "Breathe," on Medium! FATHER'S DAY COCKTAILS.
This Father's Day, treat your dad to something a little classier than that six-pack of Natty Ice.
Need ideas? Check out my Father's Day cocktail recipe segment on KATU's Afternoon Live in Portland. Click here to watch it! WRECK YOUR WISHING WELL.
We wish. We hope. We dream. We never do. All the while, that baleful bandit known as routine robs us of our time, and we are left to wonder where we went wrong.
It's time to stop wishing and start doing. Read my new blog post, "Wreck Your Wishing Well," on Medium. THE DEEP END.
Words matter. We only get so many of them before we run out of breath for good.
How many of our precious few moments of life do we spend in meaningless, superficial conversation? How many people who are placed in our path do we miss out on the opportunity to truly know? To truly love? To truly bless? It's time to get out of the shallow end. Read my new blog post, "The Deep End," on Medium. THREE DAYS IN SAN IGNACIO, BELIZE.
So you’re not quite ready to don your squirrel suit or pick up your crampons and ice axe, but you’re in need of some adrenaline-inducing adventure?
Try Belize. Belize is the ultimate weekend-warrior adventure hotspot. While lacking the towering volcanoes of its neighbors, Belize is packed with entry-level adventure. Caves, sinkholes, jungles, and barrier reefs. In the heart of Belize’s mountainous region lies San Ignacio, a town of almost 18,000. It’s Belize’s second-largest city, and a great launching pad for all kinds of outdoor activities. My friend Kachine and I spent three days in San Ignacio in May of 2017, determined to cram in as much as possible. Read about everything we did in my latest Adventure Of The Week! TWO DAYS IN BAÑOS, ECUADOR.
Baños is the undisputed outdoor adventure capital of Ecuador.
Whitewater rafting. Ziplining. Canyoning. Mountaineering. Mountain biking. Oh, and a swing at the end of the world. You want it? Baños has it. Adrenaline on tap. In February, my good friend Brad and I spent two days in Baños doing all the things. Read about our adventures on Medium or on my Adventure of the Week page! FIVE DAYS IN PHUKET.
Planning a trip to Thailand? Or, sick of all the snow and grey and in need of a mental escape?
Waterfalls. Beaches. Sunsets. Shenanigans. Check out the five highlights from my visit to Phuket, Thailand this last November. It's my Adventure of the Week, here on my website or on Medium! GOODBYE, 2016.
Goodbye, 2016. You’ve been an interesting year, to say the least. A study in contrasts. Peaks. Valleys. I won’t be shedding too many tears as I watch you leave forever.
Read my full eulogy on Medium! NEW YEAR'S EVE COCKTAILS.
Missed me crafting three New Year's Eve cocktails I've created on Portland's KATU Channel 2's Afternoon Live show yesterday?
Check out the segment and the shenanigans on KATU's website HERE. Happy New Year! PEACE.
Just over two thousand years ago, a baby was born.
This baby promised to bring peace to a broken, violent world. Instead, we have Aleppo. Where is this promised peace? Read my new blog, PEACE, on Medium. HIKING THE BAHAMAS.
There are two good times to go to the Bahamas. Whenever, and anytime.
However, when you think of world-class international hiking destinations, The Bahamas probably don’t immediately come to mind, and for good reason. The Bahamas are world-renowned for beaches and palm trees, not trails and mountains. Two weeks ago, we set out to find all the trails Grand Bahama Island had to offer. Then, I wrote about it for my Adventure Of The Week! Read more on my website or on Medium: CRAWLING IN THE DARK.
If there’s one thing that makes sense to me in this life, it’s that nothing makes sense.
What’s this life for? Where is the meaning we thought we knew? When will anything play out the way we thought it would? When will the struggle end? When will redemption win? When will we find the answers? We are crawling in the dark. Read my new blog post, Crawling In The Dark: The Gospel According To Hoobastank, on Medium. A SLAVE TO THE ALMIGHTY DOLLAR.
I'm stuck.
I'm a slave to the almighty dollar, stuck in a barely bourgeoisie bubble of comfort and cowardice. What would it take for me to step out in faith? To quit my job, to sell almost everything, and to move to a place with a lot of need? To give my life, and my money, in service to others? Would I finally learn to rely on God, to give him control of my wallet as well as my heart? Read my messy journey in my latest blog post on Medium! MY PHOTOS. ON YOUR WALL.
Have you ever wanted to buy my photos?
Now you can. Downloads, prints, canvases, mugs...you name it, it's for sale, and pretty reasonably priced, too. Head to jondavidson.smugmug.com/ or click on the My Photography tab above! CLIMBING SAHALE MOUNTAIN.
Have you always wanted to climb a mountain?
Sorry, Portland residents. Just because it has "mount" in the name doesn’t mean Mt. Tabor qualifies. I’m talking about a bona fide mountain, with glaciers and rock climbing and marmots and such. Want a taste of what such a mountain is like without quivering in your Salomons and fearing for your life the entire way? Then, my adventurous friend, Washington’s Sahale Mountain is for you. Check out my latest Adventure Of The Week here on my website or on Medium! FREEDOM: IT ISN'T MULTIPLE CHOICE.
Freedom isn’t multiple choice. It doesn’t merely apply to those who look like me. Who believe like me. Who talk like me. Who think like me. It applies to every American.
For today, at least, my prayer is that Democrat and Republican, Christian and Muslim, Red Sox fan and Yankees fan, and rich and poor can put aside our differences, celebrate our shared freedoms, and go blow a bunch of money lighting off fireworks. Happy birthday, America. Read more of my latest blog post on Medium! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.
We need more, more, more.
More right swipes on Tinder. More likes and loves on our Facebook posts. The best makeup, jeans, bike, phone, car, house, whatever. Still, when we get what we want, we want even more still. We battle with depression. Loneliness. Suicidal thoughts and actions. As prophet/comedian Louis C.K. puts it, “Everything is amazing, and nobody’s happy.” Have we lost the ability to be satisfied? Check out my new blog post, "Enough Is Enough," on Medium. https://medium.com/@jondavid…/enough-is-enough-952b043dffc0… COPENHAGEN FOR DUMMIES.
Going to Copenhagen, Denmark? Short on time?
Have no fear. Consult my exhaustively incomplete guide to this enchanting city, affectionately titled "Copenhagen For Dummies." Check it out on my Adventure Of The Week page or on Medium! MR. TRUMP, YOU'RE AN IDIOT.
Mr. Trump:
You’re an idiot. Actually, idiot doesn’t even begin to sum you up. Monster might be a better term. Just when I thought you couldn’t sink any lower, you have. Congratulations on doing your best to capitalize politically off of the heinous tragedy in Orlando. Patting yourself on the back and issuing an I-told-you-so on Twitter in the wake of 50 needless deaths? Classy, Donald. Classy. Want to implement your racist, Hitler-esque proposal to ban Muslim immigration? It wouldn’t have helped. The shooter was born in the US. Read more of my latest blog post on Medium! Fists over flowers.
Fists over flowers. Hate over heart.
It's my latest blog post, on why I believe socialism will never succeed in America. Hint: it's not why you might think. Want to help make America great again? Check it out on Medium! https://medium.com/@jondav…/fists-over-flowers-d65b62bee948… SOMEWHERE BETWEEN TOMORROW AND TODAY.
I'm stuck. Somewhere in between tomorrow and today.
I know there must be a balance between living for today and planning for tomorrow, but I'm having a hard time finding it. Perhaps you can relate. Read my latest blog post on Medium. HIKING SANTORINI.
Think Santorini is simply a place to relax and soak up the sun? Think again.
It's also a hiker's paradise, replete with stunning cliffs, active volcanoes, and multicolored beaches. Check out my three favorite hikes from last month's trip to this stunning Greek island in my new Adventure Of The Week! DUST AND PROMISES.
a sneak preview of a song from my upcoming album, Hymn.
Forgiveness. It’s undeserved. Unexpected. Unmerited. It’s a landslide of mercy that can change our lives forever. I’ve made enough mistakes already to last me a lifetime. The forgiveness I’ve received, and the meaning that’s been found in this mess I’ve made of my life, is what inspired “Dust And Promises,” a track off of my upcoming album, Hymn. Check it out, for a limited time, on SoundCloud, along with several other tracks off of my other albums, for free. Here’s the link: https://soundcloud.com/jondavidsonmusic/dust-and-promises. For more music, visit my music website. HOPE.
I hope, therefore I am. I hope for a lot of things. Some of my hopes are realistic. Some, not so much.
However, I believe that hope is only truly hopeful if it’s out of this world. You see, I have high hopes for a future that lasts forever. A future free of death. Of tears. Of pain. Of neck pain. I hope desperately for a day when all things will be made new. Check out my new blog post, Hope, on Medium! CLIMBING NORTH MAROON PEAK.
Not all Fourteeners are created equal.
For the uninitiated, a Fourteener is a mountain over 14,000' in elevation. Colorado has 54 of them (or 53, or 55, depending on whose criteria you subscribe to). I've climbed 47 of them. I'm trying to climb them all. A couple weeks ago, I flew out to attempt North Maroon Peak, one of Colorado's most difficult mountains. I succeeded, despite ice, cliffs, and fat, hungry marmots. Read about it on my Adventure Of The Week page! MY MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKING DEBUT!
I'll be making my debut as a motivational speaker on Friday, October 23, at a CircleUp networking event in Portland!
I'll be speaking on the value of interpersonal connection, what it's meant for my career, and how it can revolutionize your life and business goals. The event will take place at 6 PM at Nemo Design on SE 18th and Belmont St. Tickets are available HERE, and this event is open to the general public! ONE THING.
All of us, whether rich or poor, famous or anonymous, have our one thing. One thing that matters more to us than anything else. One thing we put first. One thing we pour our time, money and energy into.
What is your one thing? Check out my new blog post on Medium! https://medium.com/@jondavidson/one-thing-2a988b404978 CLIMBING MT. YORAN.
A month ago, I climbed Mt. Yoran, an extinct volcano in the heart of Central Oregon's wilderness east of Eugene.
Have you climbed all the easy stuff in the Northwest? Dog Mountain, Mt. Defiance, Mt. St. Helens? Are you looking for a peak that provides a taste of what the more difficult Cascade volcanoes are like, without a lot of the danger and arduous effort? Yoran luck. In fact, Yoran idiot if you don't climb this peak. Okay, I'll stop. All puns aside, Mt. Yoran boasts scenic forests, gorgeous views of Diamond Peak and Divide Lake, and a short, sharp, exciting Class 3/4 summit scramble that flirts with significant exposure but never leaves you one mistake away from an untimely death. Read about the climb on my Adventure Of The Week page, or on Medium! THE PRODIGAL FATHER.
The timeless story of the Prodigal Son isn't really about the son at all. It's about the reckless grace of the Prodigal Father.
Read my new blog post here: https://medium.com/@jondav…/the-prodigal-father-ab170def26e4 TODAY's FoRECAST: ONE HUNDRED AND WHINE DEGREES.
Today's Forecast: One Hundred and Whine Degrees.
It's hot. Shut up about it already. Check out my latest blog post on Portland's current heat wave on Medium! listen up: everyone has a story.
Listen Up: Everyone Has A Story.
It's my new blog post on the beauty of being an ear, not a voice. Check it out on Medium! FOUR CRAFT BEERS FOR THE 4TH OF JULY.
Love it or leave it, craft beer is here to stay. With over 3,000 craft breweries spread across all fifty states, it's safe to say that craft beer has become an integral part of the American beer story. New to drinking craft? There's no better time than summer to get your feet, and tongue, wet on microbrews.
This Fourth of July, celebrate America's spirit of independence and creativity by showing up to that barbecue with one of these four stellar summer ales. Read more on my Craft Beer page! HUAYNA PICCHU, PERU.
Last month, I hiked Huayna Picchu in Peru, one of Outside Magazine's 20 most dangerous hikes in the world.
I lived to tell. And write. Read about our Huayna Picchu climb here. It's my latest Adventure Of The Week! LOVE, SELFISHLY.
OPENING FOR TANTRIC ON APRIL 1.My band Silversafe and I will be opening for multi-platinum rock band Tantric at the Tonic Lounge in Portland on April 1!
This show is not an April Fool's joke. It's actually going to happen. Portland's own In The Aether will also be on the bill. We've got the cheapest tickets in town available, with no fees, surcharges, or shipping costs of any kind. To buy, click the button below! TANTRIC/SILVERSAFE 4/1/15 TICKETS Religious freedom? sorry, you don't qualify.I NEED YOUR HELP TO MAKE MY UPCOMING ALBUM A REALITY.
For as long as I can remember, I've wanted to record an album of hymns. Throughout my life, hymns have spoken to me in a powerful way, in a way that most other songs cannot. They have spoken louder this year, as I've been faced with some significant struggles. So, now that I'm a fully independent solo artist once again, and am free to record whatever I want, I've decided to create a new album, simply entitled Hymn.
This album will contain six timeless hymns that mean a lot to me, hymns such as "It Is Well With My Soul," "Before The Throne," "I Have Decided," "Nothing But The Blood," and more. I've put my own spin on these hymns, staying true to the emotion behind them but arranging them in a unique fashion, running the gamut from electro/pop to one arrangement that simply features bells, drums, and vocals. Hymn will also feature six hymns that I've written myself, hymns that have been borne out of my experience as an imperfect believer in a fallen world. Hymns that you, too, can hopefully identify with and sing. These are songs you may have already heard me play live: songs like "What Kind Of Love Is This?", "Father," and "I Need More." Recording an album isn't cheap. Start to finish, Hymn will cost upwards of $12,000. I've already recorded much of this album, but simply don't have sufficient funds for the rest of the recording, mixing, mastering, manufacturing, and promotion costs necessary for this album to be released. Check out my Kickstarter project and video by clicking HERE. Thank you so much for your contribution to this Kickstarter project. It really does mean so much to me. THE KILLER IN YOUR LIVING ROOM.
There is a killer in your living room.
Read my latest blog post here: https://medium.com/…/the-killer-in-your-living-room-8402471… It just might save your life. 21 from 10.14.
In case you missed them, I've posted my 21 favorite photos that I took in October 2014, from places like California, Colorado, Utah, and Oregon.
Check them out on my Photography page! YOU CAN STILL CHANGE THE WORLD.
Remember when we were kids? Back when we were little people, we had big dreams. Dreams of changing the world. Dreams of leaving a mark on history.
Then, life happened. I have good news for you: you can still change the world. In a very real way. Read my latest blog post here: http://jondavidsonmusic.blogspot.com/2014/08/you-can-still-change-world.html TANTRIC AND JON DAVIDSON. JULY 23.
I have the privilege of opening for the multi-platinum rock band Tantric on July 23 in Portland at the Hawthorne Theater. You have the privilege of attending for only $13.
Want cheap advance tickets without all those silly surcharges? Click HERE. Hope to see you at the show! OPENING FOR HELLOGOODBYE MAY 17.
I'm excited to announce that I'll be opening for Hellogoodbye and Vacationer at Hawthorne Theater in Portland on Saturday, May 17!
Hellogoodbye, a pop band best known for its certified-platinum hit Here (In Your Arms), is in the middle of a US tour in support of their latest album, and I'm honored to be sharing the stage with them. Wanna go? Grab your tickets HERE for the absolute lowest price anywhere, with no fees, service charges, or shipping charges whatsoever. For more information, or for an easy way to invite your friends, visit this show's Facebook event. FROM SIXTY TO ZERO.
One month ago today, the snap of an Achilles hit the brakes on my life. However, I need to remind myself that although my leg may be in disrepair, my heart still works just fine, and maybe it's time for me to think about other people more.
Read my latest post, From Sixty To Zero, on brew-explorers.com. |
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