Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas ! Enjoy the time with your loved ones - it's the best gift you'll be given this year!
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Accidents
SOMEDAYS, I have to shake my head and hang it in defeat at the same time.
We have had a pretty bad blast of 'winter' (even though it's technically fall still *sob*) in the past week and a half here. The city has really cheapest out on the snow removal process - leaving the streets either giant ruts/tracks of ice/snow that make it feel like you're off-roading or sheets of pure ice. Either way - white knuckle driving.
I pride myself on being a GOOD winter driver - even in my tiny Toyota Echo. Cautious, safe, smart... Well, no matter how safe YOU are, it doesn't mean others will be as well.....
Including the semi that reversed its trailer the 10 feet I was back at an intersection over my car (I couldn't reverse in time) dispite my honking. I'm guessing he thought he couldn't make the turn and needed more room..
Oh - did I mention he also DROVE OFF after crushing the hood and breaking off the entire shield-thing at the front? Yup!
Thankfully I was not injured and had the good sense to snap a photo of the license plate as he drove off.
The irony (as I had to find something to laugh at as I was sobbing for hours straight) - it was a truck leaving the meat rendering factory. The vegetarian was run over by a meat semi.
*sigh* I meet with the insurance company next week to see if my car is fixable (lots of front end damage but thankfully no wheel damage or engine trouble ) or not! Great timing with Christmas the week after.
Just not my week!
Monday, November 11, 2013
Lest we Forget
My sister posted a beautiful story of our grandparents & their personal story of the life during WW2.
On this Remembrance day, I remember and am thankful for people like my grandfather who served our country.
A lighthearted "war" story on this Remembrance Day:
My grandpa and grandma met before he went away to the war. Marty was photographed with Mable, and as you can see by what he wrote on the back of the photo, it was something of love at first sight... for him.
Marty went overseas to the war and the two pledged to write one-another. Except, Mabel was quite the social butterfly and didn't have time for writing. So, she assigned my great Auntie Mitzie to write to Marty... back and forth, through the war, while Marty was in the trenches, Mitzie posed as Mabel and wrote on her behalf.
When Marty returned, they picked right back up where they left off and Marty's note on the photo came true, he did marry her... and Marty apparently never knew about the covert letter writing plot!
My grandpa and grandma met before he went away to the war. Marty was photographed with Mable, and as you can see by what he wrote on the back of the photo, it was something of love at first sight... for him.
Marty went overseas to the war and the two pledged to write one-another. Except, Mabel was quite the social butterfly and didn't have time for writing. So, she assigned my great Auntie Mitzie to write to Marty... back and forth, through the war, while Marty was in the trenches, Mitzie posed as Mabel and wrote on her behalf.
When Marty returned, they picked right back up where they left off and Marty's note on the photo came true, he did marry her... and Marty apparently never knew about the covert letter writing plot!
A perfect lighthearted story on this Remembrance Day & what would have been my grandfather's birthday!
On this Remembrance day, I remember and am thankful for people like my grandfather who served our country.
Sunday, October 6, 2013
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Happy birthday to me! :D
What has this year entailed for celebrations? Well, the older I get, the less I WANT to throw an elaborate shaker. This year, I went out last evening for Ethiopian food with my best friend where we had some DELICOUS food, good wine & excellent company! Tonight, I spend with my parents, sister & her hubby doing the same :)
Perfection!
Friday, October 4, 2013
What Goes Around Comes Around
I came into some news today that showed the old truth that what one reaps, one sows..
Not that I should take pleasure in the misfortune of another human being, BUT, I learned that a truly horrible person who has caused SO much pain in the lives of others, including myself, has had her lies catch up with her in a pretty explosive way.
Due to the fact that this person treated myself and more importantly, some of my loved ones who were undeserving in such a degrading way - I couldn't help but exclaim: "Karma is a bitch."
I spend so many of my days seeing bad things happen to good people, and bad people triumphing, that it is a small victory to hear of the good guy winning.
The moral of the story? Live your life with dignity & grace. Even when people hurt you, and they will, as that is life - take the high road and react kindly, even if you are stewing inside. Your actions shape more than the present - they evolve your future!
Saturday, September 14, 2013
The one where I mortified a Target employee...
So, as many of you know, my lovely sister was married last weekend! Yaaaah! As the 4 bridesmaids (myself being the MOH) are 4 different heights and shapes as well as the wedding being planned in THREE months, she decided that rather than TRY to find a single dress that both looked good on all of us and that we all felt comfortable in - she was content for all of us to buy our own dress as long as it was the same color (navy)..
Here is a pic of me in my dress choice:
Here is a pic of me in my dress choice:
Strapless. So, two days before the wedding on a Thursday night, I decided: Hey, I should try on the one strapless bra I own and see if it works with the dress I will be wearing in less than 48 hrs... AND? No, it did not work - the strap was too large causing it to slip and peek out from under the dress when pulled up.. OFF TO THE MALL I ran!!
I am going to say this: La Senza, when I try on a bra in my size that is so padded that I cannot fit my BOOB into the bra, AND it sits 3" above my boob due to said padding this is probably a design flaw. I ended up finding a normal old strapless there, but these padded deals - hoooo boy.
So, as I was leaving the mall I crossed through Target and out of curiosity decided to pass through the undergarment area to see if they had any strapless... it was there I found the clearance section.
Bras on 70% clearance - hello $5 cute bras! It's not like bras EXPIRE, so I decided to stock up.. 4 clearance bras for $20?! Yes, please! I also passed by the athletic department and scooped up a Champion t-shirt which I thought was on sale for $9.09. Off to pay I went!
Seeing as it was 9 pm at night, there was ONE cash open - being manned by a young male. Oh Lord.
The poor boy took one look at me and the contents of my basket and I could see the panic in his eyes. The shaking boy grabbed the first bra and rang it in 4 times in a panic.. FOUR TIMES. To which he swore out loud.. Target seems to be VERY poor about having proper prices ring up in the register (especially for sales - watch your bills, ladies!) so I had to remind him EACH BRA he nervously handled that the price was ringing up incorrectly... When it came to my t-shirt, the price rang up at $12 - I mentioned the sale price I saw posted (I think) and he panicked again: "I am not sure it's on sale.. What did you think it was? Well.. whatever! IT's all good! I'll give it to you anyhow." and knocked off the price (The shirts are now on sale this week for $10 so I think I read some really wrong sign - and side note, I decided to buy another two of the shirts as they are also great as work t-shirts and they rang up incorrectly AGAIN and the cashier (a different store as well) simply said: "What was the price?" and took my word for it...)
So, that is how I mortified a young teen aged boy at Target but scored some cheap bras!
Happy weekend all!
Monday, September 9, 2013
Friday, September 6, 2013
Beginnings.
Hello! I am alive!
I apologize for my lack of ANY posts in the past while - my sisters wedding is TOMORROW (!!!!), so assisting with the planning and events like showers related to that have kept me INCREDIBLY busy!
I am actually SHOCKED the BIG DAY has arrived so quickly - the rehearsal is this evening, and tomorrow should be a whirlwind starting with hair first thing in the morning.. WOW!
Side note: I decided two nights ago (I KNOW) I should probably TRY the strapless bra I own ON with my dress - and low and behold - it wasn`t a good fit.
Off to the mall I went last night.. Here I will go on a little tangent... If someone can tell me HOW this works, please do: La Senza has some strapless bras that are SO padded (with padding that cannot be removed), I couldn't actually FIT my boob into the bra. It was like taping 5 inches of padding over top of the gals. What the?? How is this a look?? I DID ended up finding a normal (over priced) plain old strapless bra there.. but c`mon.. WHO is wearing these cast iron bras?
Secondary side note: I had gone through Target looking at strapless bras and ended up buying several clearance bras at $5 a pop! HELLO BARGAIN! Unfortunately, the ONE cashier (this was 9 pm at night) was a young male who panicked when he saw a pile of bras and rang one in at full price 4 times.. Poor guy :) But I digress...
Combine all of this wedding bliss with what ended up being a VERY action packed summer- blogging has fallen to the side!
I shall return soon!
Saturday, July 27, 2013
When the blues are more than just the blues...
This is a difficult post to publish..
During the course of the week I THOUGHT about posting something to reflect the traumatic incident that occured, but wasn't sure a) where to start b) how I really felt..
For anyone who follows Canadian news - I am sure you have heard/read about the young mother who (possibly) drowned her 3 month old baby son and 2 year old daughter before going missing.. (and for anyone curious - her body was possibly pulled from the river today)..
Well, I worked with this mother.
I didn't work DIRECTLY with her, per say, as our departments don't work side by side in the hospital.. BUT, I knew who she was and have most likely said hello in passing.
For anyone who doesn't know the story, the possible reasoning for this horror having occurred? Severe post-partum depression.
While it is not possible for me to comment on PPD as I have never experienced it, I have suffered a mild depression so I can relate to how draining it can be.. Combine that with a toddler and a newborn? I can imagine it to be hard.
The reactions to the news has been mixed: More than half of the commenter's were HOPING that this "monster" went off to "kill herself" (or disgusting comments like that) while the other half were more sympathetic towards her recognizing PPD can lead to a psychosis and wishing for her safe return/not believing she murdered her children.
I am not sure if I didn't 'know' her if I would feel like the first half of people who think her to be a 'monster' or if I would still feel sympathy for a woman who obviously did not get the help she needed for a mental health issue.
One of the most heartfelt responses I have read to the news articles was from a mother who had suffered PPD. In a nutshell she said that it is HARD to talk about it - you are surrounded by people congratulating you on the arrival of your child, and you are made to feel like you HAVE the entire world in your grasp.. To be put on that pedestal but to feel like you can't handle it/don't love your child must be horrific.. *I* couldn't imagine speaking those words to anyone. She also went on to say (and it echoed a co-worker who was talking about her history of PPD) that she was AFRAID to tell anyone how she was feeling as she was afraid that she would either be labelled as a bad mother or have her child taken away from her... fortunately, her story had a happy ending and her husband recognized she needed more help than he could provide.
PPD has such a negative stigma attached to it - it's horrible that so many people also dismiss it as not being 'real'.. I am sure that deters some moms from speaking about it as well....
I am not sure where I am going with this post... I am grieving, along with my city, for the two innocent children who lost their lives, their father & grandparents, and especially for their mother who maybe could have been helped...
During the course of the week I THOUGHT about posting something to reflect the traumatic incident that occured, but wasn't sure a) where to start b) how I really felt..
For anyone who follows Canadian news - I am sure you have heard/read about the young mother who (possibly) drowned her 3 month old baby son and 2 year old daughter before going missing.. (and for anyone curious - her body was possibly pulled from the river today)..
Well, I worked with this mother.
I didn't work DIRECTLY with her, per say, as our departments don't work side by side in the hospital.. BUT, I knew who she was and have most likely said hello in passing.
For anyone who doesn't know the story, the possible reasoning for this horror having occurred? Severe post-partum depression.
While it is not possible for me to comment on PPD as I have never experienced it, I have suffered a mild depression so I can relate to how draining it can be.. Combine that with a toddler and a newborn? I can imagine it to be hard.
The reactions to the news has been mixed: More than half of the commenter's were HOPING that this "monster" went off to "kill herself" (or disgusting comments like that) while the other half were more sympathetic towards her recognizing PPD can lead to a psychosis and wishing for her safe return/not believing she murdered her children.
I am not sure if I didn't 'know' her if I would feel like the first half of people who think her to be a 'monster' or if I would still feel sympathy for a woman who obviously did not get the help she needed for a mental health issue.
One of the most heartfelt responses I have read to the news articles was from a mother who had suffered PPD. In a nutshell she said that it is HARD to talk about it - you are surrounded by people congratulating you on the arrival of your child, and you are made to feel like you HAVE the entire world in your grasp.. To be put on that pedestal but to feel like you can't handle it/don't love your child must be horrific.. *I* couldn't imagine speaking those words to anyone. She also went on to say (and it echoed a co-worker who was talking about her history of PPD) that she was AFRAID to tell anyone how she was feeling as she was afraid that she would either be labelled as a bad mother or have her child taken away from her... fortunately, her story had a happy ending and her husband recognized she needed more help than he could provide.
PPD has such a negative stigma attached to it - it's horrible that so many people also dismiss it as not being 'real'.. I am sure that deters some moms from speaking about it as well....
I am not sure where I am going with this post... I am grieving, along with my city, for the two innocent children who lost their lives, their father & grandparents, and especially for their mother who maybe could have been helped...
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Sunday, July 7, 2013
There is a first time for everything!
What is almost as exciting as planning a vacation for yourself?
Planning your parents FIRST hot winter holiday!
My parents worked hard for their entire lives, and both retired in the past two years. When they retired, they spoke of travelling.
While they have done some minor travel back in the day with my sis and I in tow, the only large holiday they have ever taken was a trip to Europe about 6 years ago..
Other than that? Nada.
Last year my mom had both of her knees replaced, so a vacation with lots of walking was not really feasible for awhile as she needed time to rehab.. Well.. she has recouped!
That brings us to their renewed desire to travel.
After friends of theirs and my two trips to Las Vegas, that became a location they thought may be interesting to see... BUT, the draw of a winter holiday also appealed. After each of my trips down to Mazatlan (and seeing how it has become a home to me, as it is a place where my heart lays) that draw became stronger...
Last week, I stopped by their house after I had the sutures taken out of my shoulder, and ended up staying for dinner. The talk over dinner turned to holidays and by the end of the meal I had convinced them they should go to Mazatlan.... and they 100% are sold on the idea!
As I am a self proclaimed Google expert and pro at finding vacation deals, once I was back to my apartment, I was able to locate a great vacation package for them at a 4 star hotel for UNDER the cap they had wanted to spend! Yes, I am THAT good!
Like myself, it is far too early to book a trip (they are looking into the end of February or beginning of March) but if I can find a great deal NOW - I will find an EVEN better deal closer to the date..
My job, after my sisters wedding this September, will be to watch prices and set them up with something!
I have to say - I am just as excited to book a trip for them for their FIRST winter get away as I am to book my 4th year to Mazatlan.. I remember how awe struck I was on my first trip at seeing the ocean and emerging myself into the culture!
I feel Mazatlan will be a great location for them to head to as it is NOT a party town like Cancun, isn't as North American-ized as Puerto Vallarta (where Mexican friends went and could not pay with pesos - only US money - and could not find a taco amongst the KFC, Starbucks, McDonalds everywhere), or as costly as Cabo.. There are so many snowbirds and ex-pats out in Mazatlan that are more than happy to invite a stranger to join them for a drink/their meal at the Golden Zone restaurants (I experienced this first hand) if they are wanting to socialize a little.. My friends out there are happy to take them on a tour/help them out if need be...
Most importantly, it is safe. As I mentioned in my posts about Mazatlan, I never ONCE felt unsafe at any point. I did a lot of exploring in the tourist areas AND downtown by myself and felt safe.. In fact, I felt safer then I do on occasion downtown in my own crime riddled city. Even though my parents are responsible/not naive about safety while travelling, I still want a place I will not worry about their well-being.. which again is nice that I have connections out there in case they need someone to assist them.
Though I don't want to wish the summer away, I am getting excited to start booking these trips so they become a reality and not a far off dream! :-)
Monday, June 17, 2013
I'll need a vacation after I PLAN the vacation!
Oh, Lord have I opened up a big messy can of worms.
On my trip a few months back to Mazatlan, a friend of my friend David inquired why I would only take a one week vacation to Mazatlan as it was simply too short.. and why wouldn't I look into 10 days, because 7 days is not too short (true) and 14 days is a little too long.
10 days is perfection, apparently.
So, with that, my head was filled with 10 day trip possibilities.
Seeing as my work requires us to book our holidays (at least summer ones) by the end of the fiscal year (April 1) I started looking into if I would have enough holiday time to pull off a 10 day holiday - and I did! I was able to book some great summer holidays, but had enough time left over to basically be off from Mar 17 - April 1, so I booked it off already.
This is the joy of not working Mon-Friday - you end up being able to get huge chunks of time off with only taking a week of work off. Crazy, I know.
I knew I wouldn't BOOK a holiday 9 months before I would actually leave, as too much could happen in that time - BUT I was also curious to see what the prices were like.. Could I afford a 10 day trip? What would it hurt to just LOOK at prices?
So, with that, I bring you to the giant ? that has formed over my head and the new wrinkle on my forehead.
I CANNOT book a 10 day trip. I could go for 7 days, or 14 days... or 8. Not 9. Not 10.
I plugged in EVERY day combination from Mar 17-April 1 to find something - nada. WestJet - why advertise 10 day trips when you make it impossible to take one?
Correction - I could take a 10 day holiday if I wanted to have an overnight layover in Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver OR Minneapolis... but WHY book a 10 day holiday if you are not THERE for 10 days.. I fail to see how having to pay for a taxi to go to a hotel overnight is worthwhile? The prices for these 9 night trips - No thank you!
Part of the problem is that is waaay too early to look for some travel sites. WestJet does not even list the majority of their partner hotels to book a flight/hotel package with.. So with that I said, let's look at 8 days!
Aye dios mio.
I ventured off WestJet vacation packages and onto Expedia. 8 days I could do! (And WHY is Expedia so much cheaper?? I feel like I'm missing something. How can the same package through WJ be more expensive on there (minus transportation) compared to Expedia???)
I plugged in a Friday - Saturday 8 day trip and found some great prices. So, why not watch prices for a bit in the am AND pm to see how they differ, I told myself. Did you know the prices of the SAME trip varied between $200 during the SAME week depending on the day (weekends are pricier then weekdays to book ON) and TIME of day (After noon the prices appear to jump). I became obsessed watching!
So yesterday I decide to plug in 8 day trips for every combination in my holiday time to see how THOSE prices differed and if I would HAVE to do an over night. If I wanted travel for any day other than Friday or Saturday, my 8 days turned into 7 nights because of the wonderful world of layovers. Grumble grumble... and prices? $200 difference for SAME hotel SAME days if I flew Monday compared to Tuesday.
THEN, I discovered Sat-Sun. $400 cheaper?? Whaaaaaaat?! Where did you come from??
This was flying Delta instead of WestJet with a brief daytime layover in Minneapolis.
My messy can of WestJet Fri-Sat worms knocked over the can of Delta worms.
I could leave Winnipeg the same time as the WJ flight would be leaving IF I left the day prior, but land 2 1/2 hrs earlier AND save $200?! So I looked further..
I have never flown with Delta - how are they for travel? 2 hours of Googling later, not as many great reviews as WJ, but I also came to realize people are WAY more apt to post a negative review (about silly things like the seat was not comfortable ENOUGH for them) compared to send in a positive review. I threw my questions onto Trip Advisor and got good enough answers to feel it would be worthwhile..
Also a 'worry' - WJ packages INCLUDE your transportation to and from the airport, Expedia bookings do not. While I am perfectly fine to travel by myself (as it appears I will most likely be doing again), I enjoyed having my transportation arranged FOR me. I worry about missing flights in a foreign country. So how much would transportation cost? Is it safe?
I spoke to my friend David as well as 2 other friends - one who lives there as well and another who I met through David from the US. They basically all said it was SAFE, about $25 but would agree to be my transportation... I just like options in case my friends are not able to do me the favor.
Oy.
So now my bit of time just looking turned into 2 weeks of watching prices for ONE set of days and now has morphed into a homemade chart to start watching TWO sets of days.
APPARENTLY, you will get your BEST prices 6-8 weeks prior to travel - so I have time.. Maybe.. It depends on what you read heh
Then I think - what IF I found a great price NOW. Would it be silly to book so far in advance? I believe WJ would reimburse, Delta I have heard not so wonderful things about.. AND seeing as our PST is increasing July 1, would it make sense to book PRIOR to save that 1% increase?
I don't know about you, but I am feeling like this is WAAAAAY more complicated then it needs to be. Last year, I logged onto WJ, found the hotel I was at last year and clicked purchase. Bing bang boom. Aye Aye Aye.
Any experiences from anyone flying with Delta? Expedia experiences?
On my trip a few months back to Mazatlan, a friend of my friend David inquired why I would only take a one week vacation to Mazatlan as it was simply too short.. and why wouldn't I look into 10 days, because 7 days is not too short (true) and 14 days is a little too long.
10 days is perfection, apparently.
So, with that, my head was filled with 10 day trip possibilities.
Seeing as my work requires us to book our holidays (at least summer ones) by the end of the fiscal year (April 1) I started looking into if I would have enough holiday time to pull off a 10 day holiday - and I did! I was able to book some great summer holidays, but had enough time left over to basically be off from Mar 17 - April 1, so I booked it off already.
This is the joy of not working Mon-Friday - you end up being able to get huge chunks of time off with only taking a week of work off. Crazy, I know.
I knew I wouldn't BOOK a holiday 9 months before I would actually leave, as too much could happen in that time - BUT I was also curious to see what the prices were like.. Could I afford a 10 day trip? What would it hurt to just LOOK at prices?
So, with that, I bring you to the giant ? that has formed over my head and the new wrinkle on my forehead.
I CANNOT book a 10 day trip. I could go for 7 days, or 14 days... or 8. Not 9. Not 10.
I plugged in EVERY day combination from Mar 17-April 1 to find something - nada. WestJet - why advertise 10 day trips when you make it impossible to take one?
Correction - I could take a 10 day holiday if I wanted to have an overnight layover in Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver OR Minneapolis... but WHY book a 10 day holiday if you are not THERE for 10 days.. I fail to see how having to pay for a taxi to go to a hotel overnight is worthwhile? The prices for these 9 night trips - No thank you!
Part of the problem is that is waaay too early to look for some travel sites. WestJet does not even list the majority of their partner hotels to book a flight/hotel package with.. So with that I said, let's look at 8 days!
Aye dios mio.
I ventured off WestJet vacation packages and onto Expedia. 8 days I could do! (And WHY is Expedia so much cheaper?? I feel like I'm missing something. How can the same package through WJ be more expensive on there (minus transportation) compared to Expedia???)
I plugged in a Friday - Saturday 8 day trip and found some great prices. So, why not watch prices for a bit in the am AND pm to see how they differ, I told myself. Did you know the prices of the SAME trip varied between $200 during the SAME week depending on the day (weekends are pricier then weekdays to book ON) and TIME of day (After noon the prices appear to jump). I became obsessed watching!
So yesterday I decide to plug in 8 day trips for every combination in my holiday time to see how THOSE prices differed and if I would HAVE to do an over night. If I wanted travel for any day other than Friday or Saturday, my 8 days turned into 7 nights because of the wonderful world of layovers. Grumble grumble... and prices? $200 difference for SAME hotel SAME days if I flew Monday compared to Tuesday.
THEN, I discovered Sat-Sun. $400 cheaper?? Whaaaaaaat?! Where did you come from??
This was flying Delta instead of WestJet with a brief daytime layover in Minneapolis.
My messy can of WestJet Fri-Sat worms knocked over the can of Delta worms.
I could leave Winnipeg the same time as the WJ flight would be leaving IF I left the day prior, but land 2 1/2 hrs earlier AND save $200?! So I looked further..
I have never flown with Delta - how are they for travel? 2 hours of Googling later, not as many great reviews as WJ, but I also came to realize people are WAY more apt to post a negative review (about silly things like the seat was not comfortable ENOUGH for them) compared to send in a positive review. I threw my questions onto Trip Advisor and got good enough answers to feel it would be worthwhile..
Also a 'worry' - WJ packages INCLUDE your transportation to and from the airport, Expedia bookings do not. While I am perfectly fine to travel by myself (as it appears I will most likely be doing again), I enjoyed having my transportation arranged FOR me. I worry about missing flights in a foreign country. So how much would transportation cost? Is it safe?
I spoke to my friend David as well as 2 other friends - one who lives there as well and another who I met through David from the US. They basically all said it was SAFE, about $25 but would agree to be my transportation... I just like options in case my friends are not able to do me the favor.
Oy.
So now my bit of time just looking turned into 2 weeks of watching prices for ONE set of days and now has morphed into a homemade chart to start watching TWO sets of days.
APPARENTLY, you will get your BEST prices 6-8 weeks prior to travel - so I have time.. Maybe.. It depends on what you read heh
Then I think - what IF I found a great price NOW. Would it be silly to book so far in advance? I believe WJ would reimburse, Delta I have heard not so wonderful things about.. AND seeing as our PST is increasing July 1, would it make sense to book PRIOR to save that 1% increase?
I don't know about you, but I am feeling like this is WAAAAAY more complicated then it needs to be. Last year, I logged onto WJ, found the hotel I was at last year and clicked purchase. Bing bang boom. Aye Aye Aye.
Any experiences from anyone flying with Delta? Expedia experiences?
Monday, June 10, 2013
A little bit about me..
A little bit about me..
I'm the type of girl who takes great pleasure out of driving barefoot. Don't ask me WHY, but I find it so freeing to drive down the highway barefoot.. possibly singing as loudly as I can to whatever is playing on my stereo... and rather badly at that.
I'm the type of girl who goes to the gym daily. Why do I go? It's not that I am THAT health conscience.. I eat well, I exercise.. but I also go to the gym so I can justify chowing down on some Reese Peanut Butter cups. If my abs are never going to be defined because I refuse to give up carbs and sugar? So be it! I'm happier for the indulgence!
I'm the type of girl who isn't high maintenance. I can't curl my hair for the life of me. I have never mastered the art of eyeshadow trios... and really could care less to do so. I'm a complete girly girl as I love wearing dresses - but I will also hop on a quad in the same dress.
I'm the type of girl who doesn't quite GET fashion. I take pride in my appearance, don't get me wrong.. but I am also the type of girl who doesn't get cramming my feet into $600 shoes that are uncomfortable.. bring on the flip flips and sneakers! I have NOTHING against 'popping tags' as they say - if I can score a cute used dress
I'm the type of girl who cannot keep perfectly manicured nails... and trust me, I am FINE with that. I have no qualms about getting my hands dirty. I'd rather get 'in there' then stand back and let someone else 'do' it for me..
I'm the type of girl who has a hard time asking FOR help. I'm strong to a fault. It's not that I feel like I can do it all on my own, because I know I can't.. It's that I'm often afraid to ASK for fear of looking weak.
I'm the type of girl who thinks more than she speaks. Sometimes it may come across as I'm snobby because I don't say much - but I'm just a nervous person. When I'm nervous, I don't know what to say.. and will often say something completely inappropriate or random.
I'm the type of girl who loves fully. If I love you, I love you. I often struggle with listening to my head when my heart is telling me something else. I try to lead with my head, but my silly heart ALWAYS gets in the way.. and that's okay. I'd rather be someone who loves hard and falls harder then someone who doesn't give love a chance.
I'm the type of girl who doesn't fall in love easily, but I fall in love fooly. When I feel it, I feel it immediately and blindly. I don't settle for less than what I want, but I will 'put up with' a lot less then I deserve.
I'm the type of girl who doesn't QUITE fit in all the time.. Surrounded by married friends with children - I'm a minority.. and that's okay. I know I get strange looks when I am excited to slap on some fake blood and makeup to participate in the yearly Zombie walk.. but that's what makes me happy. I will probably never be the type of girl who thinks discussing cracked nipples from breast feeding is stimulating conversation and fun..
I'm the type of girl who cries often - the recent video of the elderly lady who found her pup on live TV after the massive tornadoes tore through the US? Sobbing. Thinking of people who are no longer in my life? I'll break down in private.. and more often than people know. I'm okay with it - because I am okay with FEELING so strongly. Tears aren't weakness in my eyes.
I'm the type of girl who just wants to be me. I want people to love me for me. I don't want to change myself to suit anyone else's idea of who the think I should be... I think I'm pretty perfect in my imperfections!
I'm the type of girl who takes great pleasure out of driving barefoot. Don't ask me WHY, but I find it so freeing to drive down the highway barefoot.. possibly singing as loudly as I can to whatever is playing on my stereo... and rather badly at that.
I'm the type of girl who goes to the gym daily. Why do I go? It's not that I am THAT health conscience.. I eat well, I exercise.. but I also go to the gym so I can justify chowing down on some Reese Peanut Butter cups. If my abs are never going to be defined because I refuse to give up carbs and sugar? So be it! I'm happier for the indulgence!
I'm the type of girl who isn't high maintenance. I can't curl my hair for the life of me. I have never mastered the art of eyeshadow trios... and really could care less to do so. I'm a complete girly girl as I love wearing dresses - but I will also hop on a quad in the same dress.
I'm the type of girl who doesn't quite GET fashion. I take pride in my appearance, don't get me wrong.. but I am also the type of girl who doesn't get cramming my feet into $600 shoes that are uncomfortable.. bring on the flip flips and sneakers! I have NOTHING against 'popping tags' as they say - if I can score a cute used dress
I'm the type of girl who cannot keep perfectly manicured nails... and trust me, I am FINE with that. I have no qualms about getting my hands dirty. I'd rather get 'in there' then stand back and let someone else 'do' it for me..
I'm the type of girl who has a hard time asking FOR help. I'm strong to a fault. It's not that I feel like I can do it all on my own, because I know I can't.. It's that I'm often afraid to ASK for fear of looking weak.
I'm the type of girl who thinks more than she speaks. Sometimes it may come across as I'm snobby because I don't say much - but I'm just a nervous person. When I'm nervous, I don't know what to say.. and will often say something completely inappropriate or random.
I'm the type of girl who loves fully. If I love you, I love you. I often struggle with listening to my head when my heart is telling me something else. I try to lead with my head, but my silly heart ALWAYS gets in the way.. and that's okay. I'd rather be someone who loves hard and falls harder then someone who doesn't give love a chance.
I'm the type of girl who doesn't fall in love easily, but I fall in love fooly. When I feel it, I feel it immediately and blindly. I don't settle for less than what I want, but I will 'put up with' a lot less then I deserve.
I'm the type of girl who doesn't QUITE fit in all the time.. Surrounded by married friends with children - I'm a minority.. and that's okay. I know I get strange looks when I am excited to slap on some fake blood and makeup to participate in the yearly Zombie walk.. but that's what makes me happy. I will probably never be the type of girl who thinks discussing cracked nipples from breast feeding is stimulating conversation and fun..
I'm the type of girl who cries often - the recent video of the elderly lady who found her pup on live TV after the massive tornadoes tore through the US? Sobbing. Thinking of people who are no longer in my life? I'll break down in private.. and more often than people know. I'm okay with it - because I am okay with FEELING so strongly. Tears aren't weakness in my eyes.
I'm the type of girl who just wants to be me. I want people to love me for me. I don't want to change myself to suit anyone else's idea of who the think I should be... I think I'm pretty perfect in my imperfections!
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
.Life
I finally have a happy post to throw out!
While this victory is not mine personally, it is a huge one in my heart...
While this victory is not mine personally, it is a huge one in my heart...
I am getting a brother-in-law :-)
While the details of the proposal is not my story to tell - I will add the title of the post is what my sister said to me when she called to tell me the news.. :-)
Congratulations to my lovely sister K and her finance T. ♥
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
A drunk man's words..
*sigh*
Every time I start to take a few steps forward, I get kicked a few steps back.
Seriously.
I am waiting for one entire week where SOMETHING does not go wrong or someone doesn't do SOMETHING that is cringe worthy.
In a nutshell - I received some drunken text messages late Friday night from The Ex. As I am sleeping, I don't see them or reply. In the morning, I do - as they consisted mostly of "Why won't you answer?" sort of messages..
I politely reply that I was sleeping.
Later, he replies apologizing for bothering me.
Saturday, I am woken up to several drunken messages from The Ex telling me how much he misses me and wants to see me.
I reply that I am sleeping and need to be up in a few hours for work. He replies he misses me A LOT. I reply telling him to enjoy his celebrations, I'll ttyl and I need to go to sleep..
Sunday, I am informed the Ex is making jokes about his drunken 'shame' of texting me and how he won't delete these messages as a shameful reminder to himself, and how an app should be made to make ex gf's a 'no fly zone', etc...
Seriously.
It was enough to make me break down in tears. Hard.
While I am leaps and bounds from where I was ages ago with his influence, he STILL has the power to hurt me.
He texts me TWO days in a row but turns ME into the punch line...? I loved him for 3 years with all of my heart, so to be made into a joke stings no matter how strong I may be...
I'm sorry for YET another crummy post.. Victories just aren't coming my way lately!
Every time I start to take a few steps forward, I get kicked a few steps back.
Seriously.
I am waiting for one entire week where SOMETHING does not go wrong or someone doesn't do SOMETHING that is cringe worthy.
In a nutshell - I received some drunken text messages late Friday night from The Ex. As I am sleeping, I don't see them or reply. In the morning, I do - as they consisted mostly of "Why won't you answer?" sort of messages..
I politely reply that I was sleeping.
Later, he replies apologizing for bothering me.
Saturday, I am woken up to several drunken messages from The Ex telling me how much he misses me and wants to see me.
I reply that I am sleeping and need to be up in a few hours for work. He replies he misses me A LOT. I reply telling him to enjoy his celebrations, I'll ttyl and I need to go to sleep..
Sunday, I am informed the Ex is making jokes about his drunken 'shame' of texting me and how he won't delete these messages as a shameful reminder to himself, and how an app should be made to make ex gf's a 'no fly zone', etc...
Seriously.
It was enough to make me break down in tears. Hard.
While I am leaps and bounds from where I was ages ago with his influence, he STILL has the power to hurt me.
He texts me TWO days in a row but turns ME into the punch line...? I loved him for 3 years with all of my heart, so to be made into a joke stings no matter how strong I may be...
I'm sorry for YET another crummy post.. Victories just aren't coming my way lately!
Monday, May 13, 2013
I'm alive!
Uggggh. I have been neglecting my blogging...
What have I been up to? Sadly, nothing news worthy!
In the past few weeks, work is just kicking me down mentally and physically... Combine that with the new exercise routine I started a week ago (that keeps me in the gym for about 90 minutes daily) I come home exhausted..
I think the dreary weather we have been experiencing in my neck of the woods isn't helping my pep level either... BUT, that too shall change soon enough I am sure :-)
Hope y'all are doing well!!
What have I been up to? Sadly, nothing news worthy!
In the past few weeks, work is just kicking me down mentally and physically... Combine that with the new exercise routine I started a week ago (that keeps me in the gym for about 90 minutes daily) I come home exhausted..
I think the dreary weather we have been experiencing in my neck of the woods isn't helping my pep level either... BUT, that too shall change soon enough I am sure :-)
Hope y'all are doing well!!
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Wordless Wednesday: Playing in the Dirt
It doesn't look like much NOW, but in a few months it will be filled with fresh vegetables!
The best part? Part of it is mine :-)
You're looking at my new community garden plot!
Due to the friends whose yard I used prior for my gardening selling their house suddenly, I had to look at other venues for my gardening love. I was able to locate one through a nearby church that was VERY cheap for the year! It's going to be different, but I am very excited to get into that dirt!
Friday, April 19, 2013
"Straight out of modor.."
It was inevitable it was coming.. "His eyes were.. rapey? If that makes sense".
:-)
Happy friday!
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Be kind to yourself.
I came across the link to this video on FB yesterday, watched it and sobbed the entire time... I then proceeded to share the link with my bestie, who also sobbed the entire time..
Please take a few minutes to watch the video.. It's a great reminder that we need to start being a little kinder to ourselves :-) ♥
Please take a few minutes to watch the video.. It's a great reminder that we need to start being a little kinder to ourselves :-) ♥
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Throwing caution to the wind
*WARNING* My throwing caution to the wind may cause some of you to shudder at the "WHAT IF..." possibilities.. but hey, there were none so just read on..
By nature, I am VERY much not someone who 'throws caution to the wind', so to speak.
I am a planner. Correction, I am an over planner. I am a worrier. I always keep one foot on the ground. Before attempting dangerous activities, friends will actually ask for my opinion as I am 'the voice of reason.'...
HOWEVER, my trip to Mazatlan was all about myself doing things that I hadn't done before. Livin' it up a little..... so here is my back story:
I am a HUGE fan of Instagram. I post photos VERY often and spend a good deal of time perusing other peoples photos.
A few months back, I began searching the hashtag #Mazatlan. This was basically done for my own pleasure of seeing photos of my beloved vacay location. I ended up following a person (I wasn't even sure if it was a male or female as their photos were many landscape photos and no clear selfies) as I just adored their photos. They followed me back. The person, a fellow who I will call J, ended up asking if I wanted to add him on FB. I did and left it that. Basically all of his FB posts were in Spanish, so I didn't really communicate with him at all..
That brings me to my trip.
Having my IPhone with me on the trip, I used the free Wifi EVERYWHERE to post photos of myself/my trip as I was there.... I received a message from J asking if I was in Mazatlan. I replied confirming my location. He responded asking if I wanted to meet up that afternoon. He offered to show me around and maybe take some photos. (That sounds so creepy when I type it)
Uhhhhh. Meet a stranger who I met off Instagram in a foreign country where I am travelling alone? Nooooo thank you, not for me.
I politely responded I wouldn't 'have time', but thanks for the offer! He asked again if I was interesting in maybe meeting up the following afternoon.
I decided to be honest and straight out TOLD him that I was not really sure that meeting up with a stranger was a safe thing to do, and I was hesitant because of that. Nothing against HIM, just being safe.
He replied saying he understood, and how about THIS: He works as a lawyer for the city, in their town hall which is directly across the the cathedral. He offered that I could meet him AT his work (a public place) at 2:30 (he was done work at 3) where he would show me around town hall then take me on a little walking tour around the downtown area.
THIS is where I decided to throw caution to the wind! Meeting in a public GOVERNMENT building in the middle of the day. It's a tad unsafe, but still safe.. if that makes sense.
I replied that that would be great. I added that I needed to be heading back to my hotel around 4:30ish - I figured that gave me a window to escape if this dude ended up being a creepo.
So, I hopped on a bus and made my way downtown.. I went early to look at the cathedral (man, just as beautiful as I remembered!) and shop the Central market... then I met up with J.
Throwing caution to the wind was a great idea! He showed me around the town hall (which was cool in itself), and took me around downtown and the north end of the malecon:
Finally we stopped at one of the hotels which has an AMAZING rooftop pool/bar for a drink. The view was PHENOMENAL!
At that time, it was just after 4:30 so I said goodbye to my new friend and headed back 'home'....
Not to say that I would recommend meeting strangers off the Internet randomly. Don't get me wrong - I'm not naive.. but sometimes it's not a bad idea to throw caution to the wind!
By nature, I am VERY much not someone who 'throws caution to the wind', so to speak.
I am a planner. Correction, I am an over planner. I am a worrier. I always keep one foot on the ground. Before attempting dangerous activities, friends will actually ask for my opinion as I am 'the voice of reason.'...
HOWEVER, my trip to Mazatlan was all about myself doing things that I hadn't done before. Livin' it up a little..... so here is my back story:
I am a HUGE fan of Instagram. I post photos VERY often and spend a good deal of time perusing other peoples photos.
A few months back, I began searching the hashtag #Mazatlan. This was basically done for my own pleasure of seeing photos of my beloved vacay location. I ended up following a person (I wasn't even sure if it was a male or female as their photos were many landscape photos and no clear selfies) as I just adored their photos. They followed me back. The person, a fellow who I will call J, ended up asking if I wanted to add him on FB. I did and left it that. Basically all of his FB posts were in Spanish, so I didn't really communicate with him at all..
That brings me to my trip.
Having my IPhone with me on the trip, I used the free Wifi EVERYWHERE to post photos of myself/my trip as I was there.... I received a message from J asking if I was in Mazatlan. I replied confirming my location. He responded asking if I wanted to meet up that afternoon. He offered to show me around and maybe take some photos. (That sounds so creepy when I type it)
Uhhhhh. Meet a stranger who I met off Instagram in a foreign country where I am travelling alone? Nooooo thank you, not for me.
I politely responded I wouldn't 'have time', but thanks for the offer! He asked again if I was interesting in maybe meeting up the following afternoon.
I decided to be honest and straight out TOLD him that I was not really sure that meeting up with a stranger was a safe thing to do, and I was hesitant because of that. Nothing against HIM, just being safe.
He replied saying he understood, and how about THIS: He works as a lawyer for the city, in their town hall which is directly across the the cathedral. He offered that I could meet him AT his work (a public place) at 2:30 (he was done work at 3) where he would show me around town hall then take me on a little walking tour around the downtown area.
THIS is where I decided to throw caution to the wind! Meeting in a public GOVERNMENT building in the middle of the day. It's a tad unsafe, but still safe.. if that makes sense.
I replied that that would be great. I added that I needed to be heading back to my hotel around 4:30ish - I figured that gave me a window to escape if this dude ended up being a creepo.
So, I hopped on a bus and made my way downtown.. I went early to look at the cathedral (man, just as beautiful as I remembered!) and shop the Central market... then I met up with J.
Throwing caution to the wind was a great idea! He showed me around the town hall (which was cool in itself), and took me around downtown and the north end of the malecon:
A really cool restaurant (that has live jazz music) in the downtown area - you can see the roof is open. Apparently it's just AMAZING at night when you can look up and see the stars.
A young girl dressed up taking photos before her quinceanera (for her 15th birthday, I suppose you could look at it like a barmitzva in the Jewish religion) along the malecon
One of the statues along the malecon - J snapped me 'hitching a ride' and I snapped him getting the drivers view down the malecon.
One of the artifacts at the museum
Finally we stopped at one of the hotels which has an AMAZING rooftop pool/bar for a drink. The view was PHENOMENAL!
At that time, it was just after 4:30 so I said goodbye to my new friend and headed back 'home'....
Not to say that I would recommend meeting strangers off the Internet randomly. Don't get me wrong - I'm not naive.. but sometimes it's not a bad idea to throw caution to the wind!
Thursday, April 4, 2013
It's coming!
I promise I will be posting a blog SOON about my trip to Mazatlan!
I've just been rather busy with work, Easter and getting back into the swing of the things!
It's coming! Really :-)
I've just been rather busy with work, Easter and getting back into the swing of the things!
It's coming! Really :-)
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Bi*ch, please.
No, I am not going to discuss my trip YET.. well, I am actually here to discuss something that happened ON my trip, which caused a little kink in the road.
So, a little while back I briefly mentioned, without going into details, that I had a falling out with a very close friend of mine.
Without going into massive details again, I will just say: This friend and I have known each other/been friends since we were about 12 years old. We've travelled a lot together. I was regularly invited to family functions (Her mom is one of 10 children so her family is MASSIVE and get togethers often mean renting a hall). I was present for the birth of her daughter; who also has my name as her middle name. She is one of the few people who know EVERY secret I have, and vise versa.
Basically, we were VERY close.
My friend is also VERY hot tempered and hard headed. Over the years, she has lost many friends due to these rather negative qualities.. Myself, being a mellow person by nature, dealt with it. It could be uncomfortable at times when say, her and her hubby would get into a screaming match in front of me and oh, ask me who I felt was right... (FYI, pointing down the hall and saying: "HEY look, shiny things!!" is a valid answer).. but I dealt.
Over the past year, this friend did some really mean and crappy things to other people, that bordered on psychotic. She also did some mean and crappy things to me.
One thing I can say I took from my relationship with my ex is that I no longer will allow people to walk all over me and get away with it. If you hurt me, I will tell you. I will not be malicious about it, nor will I hold a grudge, but I will tell you.
Things came to a blow when the friend, another friend and I were to get together for a gals night to watch re-runs of Grey's and the friend ended up ditching me. She was apparently mad that the week prior I had taken the time during the episode to answer a few texts/email rather than watch the show in it's entirety. So she decided to ditch me... and post pictures on FB of her and the other friend hanging out.
I ended up telling her that her behaviour hurt my feelings and it was a crappy thing to do.
WELL, friend did not take to this kindly. She in turn sent me some VERY rude emails telling me I am a horrible friend (?) and if it wasn't for her, and her alone, we wouldn't even BE friends. She came up with some crazy calculation of how much money she believes me she has saved me over the years seeing her for my haircuts. (?!).. She was malicious.
She then decided to send my sister some crazy and rude emails where she berated me and accused me of STEALING from her.
Now, my sister is not a push over. My sister is VERY strong willed and can have a fiery temper as well. She tore a strip off of Friend... No one hurts her baby sis :-)
Friend admitted to lying about the stealing - this was her pathetic childish way of trying to get attention/'win'... Funny, I also recall her telling me two co-workers who ended up leaving her shop 'stole' from her... But I digress...
I remained very civil in these emails. I'm not stupid. I chose my words VERY carefully, so there were not things spoken that I would be unable to take back... Even though I was very hurt by her horrible words, I chose to be an adult.
I eventually refused to reply to her BS and we stopped speaking. During a holiday party at another friends home, she would not look me in the eye and her hubby shot me dirty looks all night.. That was the last time we saw each other...
I have chosen to not say anything negative to other people about her, other than to my bff who this friend has also done some VERY horrible things to (they no longer speak either), since this happened. I am not like that.. Why fuel a fire? When people ask, I explain we had an argument and she did not take well to me calling her out. Anyone who knows her is not surprised.. She has a bad rep.
So to the point of my blog - I get to Mexico and meet up with my friend, D, there. D has met Friend and her hubs (but have not spoken since last year)... D basically asks what happened with us, as he has noticed she and I no longer post on each others FB, no photos, etc.. I give my usual speech about the argument. Forwhatever reason (3 beers?) I also mentioned that she has been trying to tell people lies about me - stealing, using them, etc.. He mentioned he does not trust her. He also mentioned other people who have met her there have described her as "evil". Eep! Not how I would want myself thought of!
Simple. That same night I take a photo of myself and my friend D out and post it on FB.
D mentions later that the next day he received a FB message from Friend. Long and short of it, I found out that Friend is trying to tell D that they saw I am out in Mex and I am trying to USE him (for money?) and he should be cautious.
Seriously bitch? She sunk THAT low.
Fortunately, D is not stupid. D and I are in regular contact and he knows what kind of person I am. He saw I was not asking ANYTHING of him out there other than some of his time to visit when he was free. I was slightly worried he would believe her craziness, but again, actions speak louder than words...
Fortunately we had had the convo about her pulling this BS BEFORE she pulled attempted to pull it on him. I am very thankful for that occurring in the times it did - it basically solidified what I told him..
I was LIVID. This is a 33 yr old mother of three children. C'mon. Grow the f**k up. 20 yrs of friendship and she is going to attempt to ruin my holiday with lies? That is beyond pathetic.
Karma, that's all I will say!
So, a little while back I briefly mentioned, without going into details, that I had a falling out with a very close friend of mine.
Without going into massive details again, I will just say: This friend and I have known each other/been friends since we were about 12 years old. We've travelled a lot together. I was regularly invited to family functions (Her mom is one of 10 children so her family is MASSIVE and get togethers often mean renting a hall). I was present for the birth of her daughter; who also has my name as her middle name. She is one of the few people who know EVERY secret I have, and vise versa.
Basically, we were VERY close.
My friend is also VERY hot tempered and hard headed. Over the years, she has lost many friends due to these rather negative qualities.. Myself, being a mellow person by nature, dealt with it. It could be uncomfortable at times when say, her and her hubby would get into a screaming match in front of me and oh, ask me who I felt was right... (FYI, pointing down the hall and saying: "HEY look, shiny things!!" is a valid answer).. but I dealt.
Over the past year, this friend did some really mean and crappy things to other people, that bordered on psychotic. She also did some mean and crappy things to me.
One thing I can say I took from my relationship with my ex is that I no longer will allow people to walk all over me and get away with it. If you hurt me, I will tell you. I will not be malicious about it, nor will I hold a grudge, but I will tell you.
Things came to a blow when the friend, another friend and I were to get together for a gals night to watch re-runs of Grey's and the friend ended up ditching me. She was apparently mad that the week prior I had taken the time during the episode to answer a few texts/email rather than watch the show in it's entirety. So she decided to ditch me... and post pictures on FB of her and the other friend hanging out.
I ended up telling her that her behaviour hurt my feelings and it was a crappy thing to do.
WELL, friend did not take to this kindly. She in turn sent me some VERY rude emails telling me I am a horrible friend (?) and if it wasn't for her, and her alone, we wouldn't even BE friends. She came up with some crazy calculation of how much money she believes me she has saved me over the years seeing her for my haircuts. (?!).. She was malicious.
She then decided to send my sister some crazy and rude emails where she berated me and accused me of STEALING from her.
Now, my sister is not a push over. My sister is VERY strong willed and can have a fiery temper as well. She tore a strip off of Friend... No one hurts her baby sis :-)
Friend admitted to lying about the stealing - this was her pathetic childish way of trying to get attention/'win'... Funny, I also recall her telling me two co-workers who ended up leaving her shop 'stole' from her... But I digress...
I remained very civil in these emails. I'm not stupid. I chose my words VERY carefully, so there were not things spoken that I would be unable to take back... Even though I was very hurt by her horrible words, I chose to be an adult.
I eventually refused to reply to her BS and we stopped speaking. During a holiday party at another friends home, she would not look me in the eye and her hubby shot me dirty looks all night.. That was the last time we saw each other...
I have chosen to not say anything negative to other people about her, other than to my bff who this friend has also done some VERY horrible things to (they no longer speak either), since this happened. I am not like that.. Why fuel a fire? When people ask, I explain we had an argument and she did not take well to me calling her out. Anyone who knows her is not surprised.. She has a bad rep.
So to the point of my blog - I get to Mexico and meet up with my friend, D, there. D has met Friend and her hubs (but have not spoken since last year)... D basically asks what happened with us, as he has noticed she and I no longer post on each others FB, no photos, etc.. I give my usual speech about the argument. Forwhatever reason (3 beers?) I also mentioned that she has been trying to tell people lies about me - stealing, using them, etc.. He mentioned he does not trust her. He also mentioned other people who have met her there have described her as "evil". Eep! Not how I would want myself thought of!
Simple. That same night I take a photo of myself and my friend D out and post it on FB.
D mentions later that the next day he received a FB message from Friend. Long and short of it, I found out that Friend is trying to tell D that they saw I am out in Mex and I am trying to USE him (for money?) and he should be cautious.
Seriously bitch? She sunk THAT low.
Fortunately, D is not stupid. D and I are in regular contact and he knows what kind of person I am. He saw I was not asking ANYTHING of him out there other than some of his time to visit when he was free. I was slightly worried he would believe her craziness, but again, actions speak louder than words...
Fortunately we had had the convo about her pulling this BS BEFORE she pulled attempted to pull it on him. I am very thankful for that occurring in the times it did - it basically solidified what I told him..
I was LIVID. This is a 33 yr old mother of three children. C'mon. Grow the f**k up. 20 yrs of friendship and she is going to attempt to ruin my holiday with lies? That is beyond pathetic.
Karma, that's all I will say!
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
My trip
I have returned!
This is going to be a shorter post!
I have spent the past 2 days since I returned home trying to organize myself with unpacking, laundry, picking up packages I missed while gone (I am pretty sure every time I go away I miss deliveries. It's a conspiracy), groceries, etc.. I pretty much need another holiday from my holiday hah
So despite my 7 hour delay in Calgary on the way TO Mazatlan (I seriously cried a little in the bathroom at the airport I was so frustrated and bored) it was a very wonderful trip!
There is something to be said about travelling alone!
I do not tend to adjust well to time changes, so seeing at it was a 2 hour difference, I was up by 5:30/6 am every morning.. I took that time to use the wonderful WIFI to check emails/FB/etc.. THEN, rather than go to a restaurant to eat, I walked about 10 minutes to the local Megamart (basically like a Super Walmart) to buy fresh fruit, yogurt and maybe a muffin. I took that back and ate breakfast by the pool before venturing off on my morning walk.
I seriously walked for miles and miles and miles. It was amazing!
I think travelling by myself allowed me the opportunity to venture out on foot more than I would have had I been with other people. I know my way around the GZ of Mazatlan like the back of my hand now. I took a bus downtown without getting lost hah. I relaxed. I did what I wanted WHEN I wanted. The days were mostly spent sightseeing by myself, and I met up with my friend in the evenings.. It was ideal!
I didn't get a chance to do EVERYTHING I was hoping to do, but I did a lot. Photos and deets will come soon :-)
This is going to be a shorter post!
I have spent the past 2 days since I returned home trying to organize myself with unpacking, laundry, picking up packages I missed while gone (I am pretty sure every time I go away I miss deliveries. It's a conspiracy), groceries, etc.. I pretty much need another holiday from my holiday hah
So despite my 7 hour delay in Calgary on the way TO Mazatlan (I seriously cried a little in the bathroom at the airport I was so frustrated and bored) it was a very wonderful trip!
There is something to be said about travelling alone!
I do not tend to adjust well to time changes, so seeing at it was a 2 hour difference, I was up by 5:30/6 am every morning.. I took that time to use the wonderful WIFI to check emails/FB/etc.. THEN, rather than go to a restaurant to eat, I walked about 10 minutes to the local Megamart (basically like a Super Walmart) to buy fresh fruit, yogurt and maybe a muffin. I took that back and ate breakfast by the pool before venturing off on my morning walk.
I seriously walked for miles and miles and miles. It was amazing!
I think travelling by myself allowed me the opportunity to venture out on foot more than I would have had I been with other people. I know my way around the GZ of Mazatlan like the back of my hand now. I took a bus downtown without getting lost hah. I relaxed. I did what I wanted WHEN I wanted. The days were mostly spent sightseeing by myself, and I met up with my friend in the evenings.. It was ideal!
I didn't get a chance to do EVERYTHING I was hoping to do, but I did a lot. Photos and deets will come soon :-)
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Delays
Here I sit in the Calgary airport.... For the past 3 1/2 hours.
My plane is stuck in Vancouver being repaired - resulting in an estimated 7 hour delay.
SEVEN HOUR DELAY!! Did I mention I was up at 2:45 am to be at the airport on time?
**sob** that means IF we actually leave on time, I won't get into Maz until 6:30 pm.. Customs & drive - hotel by 7:30... Meaning almost my entire day shot :-(
So far not so good!!
My plane is stuck in Vancouver being repaired - resulting in an estimated 7 hour delay.
SEVEN HOUR DELAY!! Did I mention I was up at 2:45 am to be at the airport on time?
**sob** that means IF we actually leave on time, I won't get into Maz until 6:30 pm.. Customs & drive - hotel by 7:30... Meaning almost my entire day shot :-(
So far not so good!!
Friday, March 15, 2013
It's time!!
Holy crap! THE day is ALMOST here.
Tomorrow at this time I will be.. well, I'll be sitting on the plane in Calgary waiting to take flight.. but yeah, details.. details.. hah.. I will be on my way to Mazatlan.
Nerves have set in!
As I was laying in bed this morning, an email came in on my phone (at 6:15 am which I was actually awake at as I am not capable of sleeping in, even on holidays) that as it was OFFICALLY 24 hrs from my departure time(!!) I could 'check in' online and choose my seat (Window, baby!)
I chose an empty section of the airplane... granted, it IS a flight to Calgary, then a layover, so who knows how many of these people (the plane was mostly empty minus a group at the back which I hope is not a loud spring break crew!) are travelling on to Mexico! I am also not sure how many people bother to check in online 24 hours prior.. so maybe a full flight? Who knows!
HOLY crap. I am almost in disbelief that tomorrow I will be on my way to Mexico.
Did you catch the fact that 6:15 is my departure time? Meaning I have to be at the airport for 4:15 am... an airport which is on the opposite end of the city from where I live... Meaning I need to leave about 3:30 am..... Meaning I should be up for 2:30-3:00 am to get my sh*t together. Uggggh. Now that is painful! I was really hoping that since I layover in Calgary I would be exempt from the 2 hour check in and get the one hour - but no dice as I clear customs here...
I will add in that my awesome dad is driving me to the airport! Gotta love a pop who will gladly drive you to the airport in the (virtually) middle of the night! My mom added in that hopefully it will be a night she suffers from insomnia and will be up ANYWAYS to join us for the ride. I love my folks :-)
So today will be filled with the last minute things (who am I kidding - I started packing 2 weeks ago - today is filled with last minute worrying/panicking. I am a chronic worrier) - charging my Ipod, going over my packing list to ensure I have everything (and by everything I mean anything I may or may NOT need) and hopefully an early night of sleep!
We will see you in a week! ♥
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Wordless Wednesday: The pre-holiday edition
Wordless Wednesday
Monday was my last day of work, but my head was already in Mexico.
Text message to my sister:
((This gorgeous outfit is the XL isolation suit we are required to wear (even if you are an XS) when working in one of the isolation wings at work.. and don't worry, I wasn't contaminating anything by photographing myself. This was pre-entering. Not included in the photo: The matching boot covers to fully cover your rubber boots and ventilation mask))
What you now know about me? I sometimes think I am waaaaay funnier than I may actually be. ♥
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Travelling to Mazatlan: Part 3: Things to DO: The Aquarium & the dump
Oh my! With only a few days left before I leave for my solo trip to Mazatlan (Nerves are setting in!) I've been looking at a few more activities I want to partake in:
The first being the local aquarium. Located on De Los Deportes ave, which according to Google Maps is a 3km (37 min) walk or 5 min pulmonia ride away from the Golden Zone just off the Malecon. Gotta love how that works, eh?
The aquarium features over 250 species of fish, a marine museum, walk-through exotic bird exhibit and crocodile area. There are also three shows several times a day: a sea lion show, bird show and diving exhibition (in which for a fee you too can swim with nurse sharks. Eeeep!). Price wise, about $7 for admission.
Second activity I am contemplating doing: The dump. Yes, you read that correctly. So WHY on earth would I want to go to the dump?
One of the local churches, the Vineyard, participates in a Dump Feeding Tour. What is this? Due to the high levels of poverty in the Mexico, Mazatlan included, many people spend their day at the dump sifting through garbage in hopes of finding something of value to sell in order to get some money. This is their income. Some actually call this HOME as well.
http://www.vineyardmcm.org/locations/mazatlan/weekly-dump-feeding-tour/
I want to stress this is not a gawking tour or a money grab. The church is providing the tours in order to have volunteers come down to assist in first making sandwich's and then handing out a small meal and fresh, clean water to these people at the dump.
I feel like it would be a very enriching experience. I may not have a lot, but realistically I have enough to be able to GO to Mazatlan. My bills will be paid when I get home. I am never without. I like to give back when I can!
I am still trying to figure out when the tours operate and how I arrange to participate..
The first being the local aquarium. Located on De Los Deportes ave, which according to Google Maps is a 3km (37 min) walk or 5 min pulmonia ride away from the Golden Zone just off the Malecon. Gotta love how that works, eh?
(No, that is not the aquarium, I just wanted a photo of a fish and that's what I had hah)
Second activity I am contemplating doing: The dump. Yes, you read that correctly. So WHY on earth would I want to go to the dump?
One of the local churches, the Vineyard, participates in a Dump Feeding Tour. What is this? Due to the high levels of poverty in the Mexico, Mazatlan included, many people spend their day at the dump sifting through garbage in hopes of finding something of value to sell in order to get some money. This is their income. Some actually call this HOME as well.
http://www.vineyardmcm.org/locations/mazatlan/weekly-dump-feeding-tour/
I want to stress this is not a gawking tour or a money grab. The church is providing the tours in order to have volunteers come down to assist in first making sandwich's and then handing out a small meal and fresh, clean water to these people at the dump.
I feel like it would be a very enriching experience. I may not have a lot, but realistically I have enough to be able to GO to Mazatlan. My bills will be paid when I get home. I am never without. I like to give back when I can!
I am still trying to figure out when the tours operate and how I arrange to participate..
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Travelling to Mazatlan: Part 3: Things to DO: Shopping
I talked about the Central Market in a previous post. Very much a great place to look if you are in the market for souvenirs (clothing, jewelry, etc). As a whole, there are a TON of little shops scattered about the Golden Zone to shop in. I have never been into the Gran Plaza mall (it's on my list this year to check out, mostly for curiosity sake) - but if you are looking for your American style shopping mall - that is the place to go!
If jewelry is your thing, look at the silver. A word to the wise: If you are buying silver you should look the numbers "925" stamped on it. It's a mark of quality/real silver.
Leather is also very cheap down there. As a vegetarian who borders more on a vegan lifestyle, I personally don't wear leather. I'm not one to preach my beliefs - so if leather is your fancy, giver. A great shop to look for leather wallets/purses, pants/chaps, saddlebags, jackets/vests, sandals, cowboy boots, hats, and belts is Constantinos. A friend had wanted a leather vest - Constantinos measured her and a few days later she picked up a custom made vest for about $40. Seriously.
If you have ever been to Mexico, you are probably well aware of the plethora of hand crafted goods you can purchase. Personally, I am in LOVE with the bright colors. I bought a few of the blue & white dishes you see below & have bought some of the hand painted tiles and turned them into coasters. Basically you can find anything ceramic hand-painted from dishes to sinks. (And for the record, friends PURCHASED and brought back a sink last year)
Another item I scooped up was some Mexican spices - and the name of the game IS spicy! As mentioned in a past post, it's a popular to add a chili lime mixture to fruits and veggies. Also interesting; to buy a bottle of real vanilla is a fraction of the price in Mexico compared to Canada/US.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Travelling to Mazatlan: Part 3: Things to DO: The Malecon
The malecon, a waterfront street, stretches for miles (I've read different distances from 4 miles to 21 km, so I am unsure the EXACT distance!) & connects Old Town and the Golden Zone in Mazatlan. It's divided into nine sections: Puntilla "Ferry Pier", Lighthouse, Centennial, Olas Altas, Claussen, Avenida del Mar, Shrimp - Chad, Chad - Cerritos, Cerritos - Nuevo Mazatlan.
Along with shops, restaurants, & clubs dotted along the way, a walk or drive down here will bestow you with sights of statues/monuments such as The Shield, which contains the coats of Sinaloa and Mazatlan AND if you are lucky, a cliff diver!
((Photos courtesy of Wikipedia))
While I have had the opportunity to drive down the roadway in a pulmonia, I haven't had the chance to walk the malecon. I am really hoping to walk at least a portion of the way this time around so I can have some photos of my own :-)
Along with shops, restaurants, & clubs dotted along the way, a walk or drive down here will bestow you with sights of statues/monuments such as The Shield, which contains the coats of Sinaloa and Mazatlan AND if you are lucky, a cliff diver!
While I have had the opportunity to drive down the roadway in a pulmonia, I haven't had the chance to walk the malecon. I am really hoping to walk at least a portion of the way this time around so I can have some photos of my own :-)
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Travelling to Mazatlan: Part 3: Things to DO: El Faro
So, I've covered quite a few different things to do and see in Mazatlan so far (and I have to say, throwing up these blogs is getting me quite excited for my trip which is now 11 days off, especially with the huge dump of snow we received yesterday!) - there are a few activities I haven't had the chance to partake in yet, but am hoping to this time around.
El Faro - the lighthouse
See that dot at the top of the hill... That would the lighthouse!
Sitting atop the hill at the mouth of the harbours inlet, sits Mazatlan's lighthouse - the world's highest (for the elevation at which it sits) working lighthouse! Pretty cool, right?
Even cooler - it you are so inclined, you can make the 500 foot climb to the top! As daunting as it sounds, apparently it only takes about 20-30 min. Apparently it is VERY much worth the trek as the view is par to none! According to reviews, the hike is half a dirt road path and finishes with 300 concrete steps and is best done earlier in the day (to avoid the heat) in comfortable shoes.
El Faro - the lighthouse
See that dot at the top of the hill... That would the lighthouse!
Sitting atop the hill at the mouth of the harbours inlet, sits Mazatlan's lighthouse - the world's highest (for the elevation at which it sits) working lighthouse! Pretty cool, right?
Even cooler - it you are so inclined, you can make the 500 foot climb to the top! As daunting as it sounds, apparently it only takes about 20-30 min. Apparently it is VERY much worth the trek as the view is par to none! According to reviews, the hike is half a dirt road path and finishes with 300 concrete steps and is best done earlier in the day (to avoid the heat) in comfortable shoes.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Travelling to Mazatlan: Part 3: Things to DO: Islands/Beaches
Okay, so I have covered some activities to do outside of the hotel area - the central market, the cathedral, zip lining and the tequila distillery!
An obvious activity that most of us partake in when on a sunny holiday - the beach? Oh yes, the beach! There is NO shortage of places to dig your toes into the sand there..
Whether it's plopping down a towel directly outside of your hotel, or going across the ocean to one of the islands directly across from the Golden Zone beaches; from north to south, Isla Pájaros – Bird Island, Isla Venados – Deer Island and Isla Lobos – Wolf Island.
We ended up finding a 'guide' and boat driver on the beach and booked a catamaran ride (for about $20) to Deer Island for snorkeling (Which ended up being a little too murky) and a little change of scenery. In a more secluded area we were able to see tons of fish, crabs, etc. Very cool!
We ended up doing a lot of relaxing on the beach - enjoying the scenery, visiting and on occasion, paying a mariachi band a few pesos for a song (and dance hah), or looking at the snacks/jewelry/products that people sell on the beach. We also came across ladies who would do the old' Bo Derek braids for a pretty reasonable price, if that's your thing. There was also the options to parasail, water ski, body surf, take a banana boat ride, etc, etc!
Also good to know is that jellyfish are common in Mazatlan from June - November.. There is a lot of marine life in the water/on the beach - so be wary of where you step.
If you happen to be in Mazatlan in the summer months (Aug and Sept), you can participate in the release of baby sea turtles, or see their mothers lay eggs. I would SO love to do this one day!
As a whole, the peddlers are not OVERLY aggressive, but it can be a tad annoying when you are trying to relax. It's also difficult to not want to buy from everyone - you see many mothers with children on the beach ALL day trying to sell various items - and knowing this may be their only source of income.
We did travel to a few more 'local' (verses tourist) beaches and this was virtually non existent.
Also good to know is that jellyfish are common in Mazatlan from June - November.. There is a lot of marine life in the water/on the beach - so be wary of where you step!
An obvious activity that most of us partake in when on a sunny holiday - the beach? Oh yes, the beach! There is NO shortage of places to dig your toes into the sand there..
We ended up finding a 'guide' and boat driver on the beach and booked a catamaran ride (for about $20) to Deer Island for snorkeling (Which ended up being a little too murky) and a little change of scenery. In a more secluded area we were able to see tons of fish, crabs, etc. Very cool!
Above: Looking over at the Golden Zone
Below: Our driver "Monkey" (seriously)
Below: Enjoying some sun and cold beers on Deer Island
One of my travel companions was also interested in learning how to surf (and surprisingly to me, Mazatlan has a pretty booking surf crowd!) and booked a 2 hr date with a surfer (met on the beach)for about $20 to learn how to surf - he showed her the basics and provided a wetsuit top and the board.
We ended up doing a lot of relaxing on the beach - enjoying the scenery, visiting and on occasion, paying a mariachi band a few pesos for a song (and dance hah), or looking at the snacks/jewelry/products that people sell on the beach. We also came across ladies who would do the old' Bo Derek braids for a pretty reasonable price, if that's your thing. There was also the options to parasail, water ski, body surf, take a banana boat ride, etc, etc!
Also good to know is that jellyfish are common in Mazatlan from June - November.. There is a lot of marine life in the water/on the beach - so be wary of where you step.
If you happen to be in Mazatlan in the summer months (Aug and Sept), you can participate in the release of baby sea turtles, or see their mothers lay eggs. I would SO love to do this one day!
As a whole, the peddlers are not OVERLY aggressive, but it can be a tad annoying when you are trying to relax. It's also difficult to not want to buy from everyone - you see many mothers with children on the beach ALL day trying to sell various items - and knowing this may be their only source of income.
We did travel to a few more 'local' (verses tourist) beaches and this was virtually non existent.
Below: Watermelon, coconut, mango, honeydew - all fresh and served with a chili lime mix which is sooooo amazing!
Also good to know is that jellyfish are common in Mazatlan from June - November.. There is a lot of marine life in the water/on the beach - so be wary of where you step!
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Travelling to Mazatlan: Part 3: Things to DO: Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Before you say, "WHY would I want to visit a church when I go on holidays?" - the stunning architecture is so worth the visit, regardless if you are religious or not!
The first time I was in Mazatlan, we didn't get a chance to stop and go into the cathedral due to our tour guide needing to head home. However, the view from the outside was stunning in itself and I vowed to see the inside when I returned the following year - which I did (although not for mass, which I hear is amazing).
Located in the heart of downtown Mazatlan (One block away from the centro market I talked about a few posts ago) the Immaculate Conception Cathedral was completed in 1899 after over 40 years of work!
Very interesting to look at, to say the least, with what is desscribed as an eclectic mix of architecture, combining Moorish, Gothic, Baroque, and a touch of Neo-classic. Outside, large white sculptures of St. Matthew, St. Mark, St. Luke, and St. John stand at each of the four corner entrances. One extremely interesting fact about the cathedral is there are 28 Stars of David, one for each of the amazing stained glass windows. Apparently, this was a done in tribute to a Jewish family that helped financially to reconstruct the cathedral in its time of need.
The pictures don't do the architecture or statues(or size of the cathedral!) justice.
Open daily from 6 am - 1 pm and then 4 pm - 8 pm.
The first time I was in Mazatlan, we didn't get a chance to stop and go into the cathedral due to our tour guide needing to head home. However, the view from the outside was stunning in itself and I vowed to see the inside when I returned the following year - which I did (although not for mass, which I hear is amazing).
Located in the heart of downtown Mazatlan (One block away from the centro market I talked about a few posts ago) the Immaculate Conception Cathedral was completed in 1899 after over 40 years of work!
Very interesting to look at, to say the least, with what is desscribed as an eclectic mix of architecture, combining Moorish, Gothic, Baroque, and a touch of Neo-classic. Outside, large white sculptures of St. Matthew, St. Mark, St. Luke, and St. John stand at each of the four corner entrances. One extremely interesting fact about the cathedral is there are 28 Stars of David, one for each of the amazing stained glass windows. Apparently, this was a done in tribute to a Jewish family that helped financially to reconstruct the cathedral in its time of need.
Amazing statues grace the inside of the cathedral.
Below you can see the main alter. The arch above the alter has a Spanish quote from Jesus: "Come to me
all who are afflicted and I will console you". The main altar is flanked with statues of saints and angels made of Italian
marble.
The pictures don't do the architecture or statues(or size of the cathedral!) justice.
Open daily from 6 am - 1 pm and then 4 pm - 8 pm.
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