Welcome to The House of Lords

Darcy and I were in Iowa City a few weeks ago with my parents. We ended up staying in a lightly themed motel, because theme hotels always beat out non-theme motels. Seriously.

When my parents hit the sack, we decided to venture downstairs to "The House of Lords." The look of excitement on Darcy's face is entirely warranted.

After opening the doors, you are greeted by this glorious water wheel. I didn't think a picture was enough, so here's video. Yes, that is a moat.

Behind the bar is a view of the deep end of the swimming pool a la the Sip n' Dip in Great Falls, MT. There isn't a mermaid, or a lounge piano player, but this place is great.

We ordered a couple of beers, and the bartender matter-of-factly asked, "You want a glass or goblet?" Obviously we chose a goblet. Given the choice, you always choose the goblet.

All the drinks had medieval names, and one, called the "Bell-ringer," boasted a $150 price tag. It appeared to be some sort of punch bowl. I wish we had the money and the stamina to order it, but it will have to wait for another time. Any takers? We'll drive you out, you buy the drink!

I'm also a sucker for funny bathroom names.

It might not be quite as awesome as the Sip n' Dip, but what bar even holds a candle to that place? The House of Lords was worth the trip, and we'll be back for sure.

Life Changes

I've been hired as a library director in Slater, IA. Darcy and I just bought a house there. Right now we're living in our apartment with all of our belongings packed away, so it feels a lot like camping. Camping with TV and the Internet.

We move away from Missoula on the 25th of this month. You can see me at 4 pm this Friday (6/19) at the library for a cake and punch reception. Or just give me a call and we'll grab a last drink before I leave town.

When I do leave, the best way to follow my adventures would be to follow me on Twitter. I'll be posting there throughout the drive and almost exclusively until we get connected to the tubes of the Internets at our new place. Twitter is another life change I made recently. It's lame, but it's easy and I can clog the tubes via cell phone now.