Christmas is over...

Ah, Christmas! How is that almost as quickly as I got my holiday spirit it is already over?!


We started the day at 5am with a volunteer gig gone awry (too many volunteers, not enough work), then came to the homebase for a day filled with family. We ate more than we should have and loved every morsel. Although we had all agreed on a "light" holiday this year, everyone got and gave a bunch of really thoughtful and super cool gifts! Last year, the gift of the year was a Wii. This year, madre and I got Nooks (hip, hip, hooray!). Otherwise, my favorite gift of the day was this--
Merry Christmas from michigan!

*Check out Lucy the dog lusting after the hat. She stared like that for a very long time.

Found: Holiday Spirit!

Today I found it! Yep, that's right I finally found the Chirstmas spirit two days before Christmas actually happened! This is what put me right over the edge:

"It's a beaut, Clark!"*
Thanks also to the B family for bringing out the long overdue holiday spirit! I miss you already.

*As a Top 10 Holiday movie, you should know this quote from National Lampoons Christmas Vacation. The number one holiday movie at my parents' house for ten years running. Elf plays a very close second. Not sure what that says about us...maybe that we're a family that loves t laugh!

Oh, Holiday Travelers....

(should have been posted on 12/19)

Oh holiday travelers...here you are at my home away from home--the airport. On behalf of the frequent travelers in the world I have complied a small list of the do's and don'ts of airline travel and behavior. If any of this offends you, that means you are a "holiday traveler" and I am sorry but you really need to change your ways....

1. The TSA and all airlines only allow 1 carry-on suitcase and 1 personal item. That has been the rule for more than 5 years. Now pay attention---a carry-on suitcase must fit into the overhead space if you want to avoid those pesky baggage fees. And please note that those bins should be able to fit 3 (yes, 3) suitcases and still be able to close. If they can't, then your bag is too big. Suck it up and pay the fee--your fellow passengers and the flight crew will thank you, I am sure! A personal item should fit below the seat in front of you. This means your heavy coat, too. I know the floor coud be dirty, well then put the coat in your lap.

2. Now since you are all avoiding the baggage fee and bringing above-mentioned carry-on bags, please put your suitcase away and move into your row. If someone is already seated, be polite and let them get OUT of their seat before you shove you, your 15 bags, and your kids into the row with you. And then stay seated. There are over 300 people who need to access their seats and get situated before the flight can leave the gate area.

3. Let's revisit the armrest rules---you get one. Yes, that's right, you only get ONE armrest per seat and it goes like this: The window seat gets the armrest nearest the window, the middle gets the armrest closest to the window seat and the aisle gets the armrest on the right of the middle-seater. Sometimes this can change, but not really. The aisle seated person has to deal with carts and bathroom goers, so they cannot hang out in the aisle as much as they would like to.

4. If you feel the need to remove your shoes, please do so in your own space. Do not put your shoeless feet in your neighbors section of the under seat space. It's just kind of gross, let's be honest.

5. Once you have gotten through the entire flight and have arrived at the gate, please remain seated until the row in front of you has gotten up. I assure you there is no where else for you to go!

6. At the baggage pick-up, please wait patiently and be aware of others. Although halfof the plane carried their luggage on, there are still over 100 people who need to get a bag and there is no rhyme ot reason for bag delivery. Patience is a virtue...

Follow these simple rules and you will have happy travelers.

Many Thanks-

Girlwhogetseasilyannoyed

Bah! humbug!

(should have been posted on 12/18)

My! My! Yes, it has been a tremendously long absense since my last blog post. And let's be honest, the last one was a little lame and lacked that holiday spirit that all things in December should be filled with! I mean, I didn't even acknowlegde the fact that it was the day after St. Nicholas Day. sad. Basically, that lack of mention kind of sums up my lack of holiday spirit this year. Now, normally, I am filled (Obnoxiously so) with the holiday spirit. I am that person who hums Christmas carols under my breath (albeit, the lame ones, but still), bakes yummy treats for those nearby, and gets so pumped to buy presents that I can go very overboard. But sadly, not this year. I can't figure it out. I even hosted a holiday cookie exchange and helped a friend trim her very first artificial tree to surprise her two year old. If I couldn't find holiday joy in that, what else is there?

At this late juncture, I find this lack of spirit somewhat frustrating. I am annoyed with myself for missing that twinkle. I head to Michigan and will be the fam, so I hope that I am just a late-bloomer with the holiday this year....otherwise, I will officially get the LAME award for the 2010 holiday season and I don't want that!

Here's hoping one moment soon that little twinkle and holiday sparkle will appear

Waiting...

Ugh, waiting! That seems to be my theme these last few weeks (maybe years). I feel like I am in a constant holding pattern, waiting for the next thing, the next step, the next directive. And I am done with it!

I want to get this stuff done and over with! I want to move forward and make things happen. I want to go "onward and upward" (a major theme in my company). "Let's go!" is what I say. "Consequences be damned, let's get this stuff done!" (Well, really I don't say that, but I really want to!)

And with that I am going to go walk in the dark rain (because yes, it is 4:45pm and black outside (sigh.)), so I can actually accomplish something!

(ps- the artwork was stolen from google images. I have no idea where the statue actually is but it totally fits my mood. Can't you feel how annoyed they are that they are waiting?)

Different Adventures

well, my dear readers, it's been a bit. It's not that life has been without it's adventures, believe me. It's that life has thrown some different adventures into the mix. Let me explain...
Last week, it was made public that my department was going to go through some significant change. That change meant laying off 5 people I have worked with and worked beside for more than 5 years. Another whole department went through a different change- everyone was out and a few new positions were created and people had to reapply. I am not sure which is more difficult- to outright be told of a new position or to choose to make that change. I guess, we all really had a choice- to be part of the change or not. It was our call. Either way, the people without jobs are left to face some very serious choices and challenges. I am not blind to that and my heart goes out to each of them. I hope that through the unexpected change in their lives, they are able to find the happiness they each desire.
For my part, I am excited about what this change means for me. I will be taking on new and different challenges at work and letting go of much of the things about my old position that I found frustrating. I am not naive enough to think there will not be fristrations, but I am hopeful that the good will outweigh the bad. I am also confident there will still be laughter and good times with the people I work with- and really, that makes all the difference.
I am looking forward to this new adventure.

Snow Days and Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving one and all! This year I am celebrating with the Dude and his dudette. They arrived in town on the coldest day of the year and were here to experience a BIG snowfall for the area (roads closed, buses careening down hills, the works). They officially need to come with a Weather Warning sticker (seriously)! Since we are Michiganders and we know snow, we had adventures regardless of the temperatures.

On Sunday, we headed to the markets all bundled up and braving the cold Pacific breezes. We dined on spicy thai to warm ourselves from the inside out (it didn't work) and watched the locals freak out! (so funny). We cozied in and started to make plans for the following day--- we WERE headed to Vancouver! We COULD make it! Well, Mother Nature had other plans..the roads that were snow covered got icy (ugh) and ice and hills don't mix. By the afternoon though, things appeared to be clearing up (and like I mentioned above-- we're Michiganders, snow doesn't scare us!). So, we packed up and began our out-of-town adevntrue. It took us FOREVER! There were snow covered roads, people sliding all over, and a little white-knuckle driving for me. (The Dude sat in the back and read(!).) About 2 hours into a drive that shoulod normally take 2.5 hours, we were a little over half way and decided to make a pit stop for some luluLemon. (The dudette and I are officially obsessed and decked out!). After 4.5 hours, we FINALLY made it to Vancouver safe and sound. We started a bar crawl but froze and decided to spend a little more time at the hotel. We toured Vancouver on a tour bus (way too cold to be walking around outside!). We saw the sights and the weather played nice (it was sunny!). It was a great time and the day was filled with interesting bus drivers (read: characters).

Being Schulte's, we took the scenic route home. (we have a long history of taking the pretty route home. As a kid this generally feels like the LONG way. Now that we're grown-up, we appreciate the natural beauty. Maybe that makes us old, but we like it!). As we approached the Seattle area, traffic got thick and people were freaking out due to the "terrible" weather. The book store was closing 3 hours early due to weather and road conditions. Um, it WAS the artic, but with a little salt the roads would be fine (the Michigan in me is definately making a comeback.) We opted for a pizza dinner and braved the roads home (they really weren't that bad). When we returned, the house was frozen, but we survived it and cozied in for a bad movie and some laughs (three gronw-ups on a couch fighting over balnkets and footstools).

Yesterday, it was COLD again, but we decided we needed to continue our exploration and adventures. We did an Underground Tour...it was like touring a dirty old Michigan basement with some good history mixed in. The story was cool (I am a sucker and bought the book to learn more.) But cool story or not, it was GA-ROSS down there. I am intrigued by the Red light district history tour, but am not convinced I can do the underground thing again. The tour guide says it is the safest place to be in a Seattle earthquake, the Dude and I DO NOT agree. (Eeeks!).

And that brings us to today--Thanksgiving Day. Cozy and Warm inside, we are cooking for three and thinking of (and talking/texting) those loved ones who are far away today (probably warmer and drier than we are....). Have a great day remembering all the things you are thankful for. I know I will.

Grounded...

I am officially grounded. Yep. that's right! My only mode of transportation will be by car, boat, foot or local public transit for the nest month. No more airplanes, long flights or delayed travels! As of yesterday, I took my last flight for a month! (and it was a smooth one!). My only travels will be in my hood (slang for neighborhood and in this case the entire Pacific Northwest, including Canada). And I am delighted!

By now you know, I am a frequent flyer. I know the tricks, the tips, and the chaos that can ensue when flying. It is a luxury to be able to get 4000 miles in only 5 hours. I would not be interested in driving 44 hours again. No thank you.

That said, I am delighted to have my feet on the ground and be able to really explore for a little bit. My bro and his better half (two of the favorites, of course!) will arrive in just two days for a Thanksgiving vacation. We have plans to head to the Great White North (or Canada), and then adventure around Seattle. The weather may have something to say about that and we may need to adjust our plans. (Alex and Jenny have a tendency to bring terrible weather wherever they go-- snow in Scottsdale, AZ. Really there is nothing more to say than that.) Regardless, we are sure to have some great adventures by foot, car, or boat! Stay tuned....

The end of the road...

So, today is the last day of my 3-Day season. (I just realized that right this minute!). It's been a long season. The longest I have ever had. It was long because I started at the beginning and am ending at the end of 15. But in those weeks spent on the road, there have been some really incredible moments. I have the pleasure of driving each of the routes and really seeing the people and places we impact.

Here are just a few of my highlights---

- The two ladies with a thank you sign who likely have other things to do on a Friday morning, but make it important to cheer on these walkers

- It's the young lady carrying the "my mother" flag and is walking with only her dad by her side

- The smiles at 7am when the walkers are told to wait and the walkers are patient, kind and pleasnt while waiting

- It's witnessing moments like a co-worker taking the time to care for a stranger at their most vulnerable moment

- It's conversation with a man;y-man about the tender moments we are priveleged to witness

- It's getting thanks from someone whom I should be thanking

- It's watching a woman be stronger than she ever thought she could be

- It's the families that wake-up at 7am on a Sunday to hand out popsicles on a very hot morning

- It's watching the unexpected joy on someone's face when they realize they have made it!

- It's the moments we laugh so hard and for so long that we have forgotten why we started laughing in the first place

I am lucky to have a job that allows me to witness triumphs, help someone in their weakest moment, and work with an incredibly talented group of folks who share in the same values I do. Althought the work we do is for a serious cause, we definately have a good time!

Here are some of my favorite moments in photos---

Thanks to everyone who has made this long, long season super fun (most of the time)!

Random thoughts in an airport terminal

On Sunday when I departed for Phoenix, I had more travel drama. (I didn't post about this, but it took me 15 hours and a unexpected stop in Billings, MT before I got home from Atlanta last week. ugh). So, after that travel debacle, I assumed I was done for a bit. Yep- so not true! My scheduled flight from SEA to PHX was delayed due to mechanical issues and then ultimately cancelled. The good news, I am an Elite traveler so was able to be booked onto another airline for a simialr arrival time (gold star bonus!). The non-Elite travelers were stuck (I did feel bad for them).
Anyway, regardless of my re-book, I was at the gate for about 3 hours. In that time, I was situated in front of the TSA screening area. Amazing People-watching! As I sat there, I took some notes about the random thoughts that went through my head and decided to share with you (don't you feel lucky?).
So here we go...

• High heels don't make sweat pants fancy.
• Guys in tank tops are not okay. I don't want to see your armpit hair in an airport terminal! (and PS- it's 80 in Phoenix, not 112. You can survive in a tee shirt!)
• Socks and sandals are not okay! I have come to understand this is some kind of Pacific-Northwest thing, but flip-flops and tube socks ARE never okay. (same as tube socks and pumps! Maybe we should just say tube socks with anything other than an athletic shoe are not okay. Perhaps we make this law? I'm just saying...)
• Is Sunday the new Monday in travel world? There are sooooooooo many people here!
• Are fanny packs making a comeback? Did I somehow miss that memo? Let's be honest as easy- access as they may be, they are just not cute.
• I love when parents have clearly let their child dress themselves- rainbow tights, polka-dot skirt, flowered shirt, and a ladybug raincoat to top it all off. Oh and a tiara! I'd like to think if I were ever a parent I would be cool enough to let my kid be who they are and allow them to dress fantastically foolish!
• Skinny jeans are really not for everyone--yikes!

And those were my random thoughts while watching people through security. Use your imagination and I am sure you will laugh out loud when you picture these things in your head.
Happy trails...

Loves...

Travel is what I love to do. Adventures are things I like to take in everyday situations. Flights and rental cars are how I get my job completed. All of these things make up part of who I am. The rest of me is made up of people I love. These people are near and far. And some days it is harder than others for there to be so many miles between me and the people who I hold in my heart. Today is one of those days. A new love of my life was born- Margaret Clare Bedolla:

Happy parents Erica and Lou welcomed her at 4:30am. I am sure by now big sister Christine has met her and is in love (and won't "bonk" her as previously stated) , along with the friends and family that surround this lovely little unit.
So, today I may be in Arizona but my heart is in Grand Rapids with those that I gladly let take up so much space in my heart.
Welcome to the world, Margaret Clare! I can't wait to meet you.

Travel Pet Peeves

Well hello there! Yes, I know it's been awhile. Did you miss me? ;) It's been a a busy week or so--lots of travel (and some definate travel drama) and then no access to internet....thus a long time away.

So here we go--Before my hiatus, a friend sent a note to share some of her sister's travel drama. It was so funny that I decided to try and have a guest spot here and it inspired today's topic: Travel Pet Peeves.
(guest spot)Pet Peeve #1: Didn't know someone yawning could gross me out, but it can. When I was waiting for my flight from Newark, the woman two feet from me charging her phone at the same little station I was let out a big one. Fine. We're all tired. Then two seconds later she belts out another huge one and I was like, eww, I think I'm going to smell her breath. The next yawn was so intense and wide-jawed it ended with this crazy hairball-in-your-throat sound, and by then I'd had it.
PP#2: The night before on the NJ Transit train home, the guy next to me in the window seat had his elbow propped up on the rounded barely-there windowsill. He went through this painful routine perhaps 20 times in a row:
1. Fall into a deep sleep
2. Have elbow slide off into his lap
3. Have head slam into chest, then neck snap back and eyes fly open
4. Place elbow back on windowsill
It was so fucking jarring and annoying that finally I jabbed him in the side while saying "Ohsorryaboutthat!" and woke him up for good.

(thank you, friend, for your hilarious contribution)

And a few of my own....

PP#3- People sleeping in the airport terminal. You are NOT at home, please do not remove your shoes. Now an early, early, early flight could be an excuse...yet this flight is scheduled for 10am. This (see photo) is not EVER going to be okay!

And while we're at it--if the terminal is full, please do not take up more than one seat. That means your belongings, too! Although we are going to be seated for the next 4 hours, it should not be mandatory to eat while standing.
And enough for today....

Happy Fall!

Although it is already October 14 (seriously where has the time gone?!), I am just now realizing it is fall. Today I walked outside to grab the paper and the brisk air awakened me instantly. I could smell fall. I love that smell. The crispness of the air with just a little warmth to it. It smells spicy, doesn't it? And then you look up to see green and red and yellow leaves all mixed together to create a bouquet like no other. Even summer flowers in all their glory can't beat the vision of trees "on fire"! Then, add in the amazing things that come with the turn of fall--the Pumpkin Spice Latte (yummy!), pumpkins with their jolly orange shade, cozy moments at night mixed with warm sun during the day, the sound of leaves under your feet as you walk (crunch, crunch...delightful). It's all so great!

Today I will celebrate fall with an apple crisp (made from WA apples), and squash (also local), then cuddle up under a blanket with a good book and enjoy that the tip of my nose is just a little cold. After 6 years, I am in a place where there are seasons. (Hip! Hip! Hooray!) Here's to seasons!

Suitcase adventures

Yesterday I flew back from Phoenix after a long week in town. It was a productive week of work on my project and then a fun and busy weekend of helping a friend with hers. I am not sure how much help I offered, but I was there (and it was fun to work on a smaller event).

That said, I had event hangover. I was tired, I was hungry and food and sleep came first as a priority for the day. we slept a little later and took a little longer than I should have for a 1:35pm flight. I was rushing (and way more than normal) with a slow-moving body. But as an elite status member on the airline, I figured I would be okay if I arrived 35 minutes before the flight. Well, I went to check-in and had to check-in with everyone else! (I was flying US Airways on a Monday, so I couldn't get an upgrade. (sad). As someone said (not me), I was seated with the peons.) The screen flashed-- your flight leaves in 40 minutes, see a gate agent. (AHH!). From there, I went to the line, where I had to wait for 7 minutes. (in the meantime, I had a lovely conversation with the man in front of me.) I got to the gate agent and she wasn't even sure if I could check-in for the flight because it was 33 minutes before take-off. She checked me in and told me it was likely my luggage would come in on a later flight. I didn't care. So, I left running toward the gate (because of course it was the furthest gate from the check-in area that it could be). I arrived at the gate, sweating (awesome) and boarded the plane as she was about to call my name (again, awesome). Upon arrival, I had to check in with the baggage folks about my bag. The bag agent (whom I have dealt with before), told me my bag would arrive on my flight and to wait for the last bags to arrive. So, I waited and guess what? It was not on the flight (as I was told in Phoenix). I went back to the bag agent who again, told me it should be on that flight. When I told her it was not, in fact on the carosel, she looked for me (becuase clearly I would make that up). When she confirmed that it was not there, she finally looked up the bag. Turns out, the bag went to Philadelphia. I confirmed it would someday make it back to me in Seattle and went home.

This morning (at 7am), I got a call that the bag would arrive on the 11:35 flight from Phoenix. The bag travled to Philly, then to Austin, TX back to Phoenix and then onto Seattle, where it would be awaiting pick-up. I am glad it will be returned, but kind of wish it had had a better adventure than it did. No vacation inspiration from Philly and Austin (although both are places I have not been and would like to go).

Mmmmm...laundry

As you may have guessed from my post earlier this week, I am in Arizona working on the Arizona event. As I have said before, it is a gift to be able to be in my old stomping grounds semi-regularly. Although I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my new home- this is home, too. And there are certain things that I do miss about not living in Phoenix. Near the top of the list (but frequently forgotten) is the smell of Mexican's laundry. I am not kidding. I am not being offensive. I mean it. I LOVE the smell of fresh laundry. And no joke, Mexican families ALWAYS smell amazing. Now before you think I am making stereotypes, I am not! Some may say I have a good sniffer and smell things others cannot. One of those things is great smelling laundry. After living in Phoenix for a few years, I started to realize that an amazing clean laundry smell was consistently coming from hispanic families. (love). Now if you know me, you know I have a not-so-secret desire to be a senorita. I heart the hispanic culture- the bright colors, the importance of family...what's not to like? Add to that--the incredible scented laundry. In one word- heaven. Once the realization was made, I was on a hunt. I went through a phase of trying different laundry soaps on a very regular basis and still couldn't find that amazing scent for myself. I even went to the Hacienda- a hispanic-centric market that caters to people fresh into the States. No Luck. My next step, I am a little ashamed to say, involved stalking good smelling families in the grocery store and watching which detergent they picked up. (I was subtle, I swear.) Still, no luck. At one point, I just asked a friend. She explained one method; someone else explained another.
Well, some years later and I have still not had any luck. I have reluctantly given up my quest and will remain un-magnificent in my laundry scenting. Living in Seattle, I don't get that amazing whiff so I can easily forget my loss. But here in Phoenix the scent catches me and I am again reminded that I never figured out the secret. (Add it to the list of reasons why I need to become a senorita- for real!) And with that, I will continue to enjoy the scent from the family sitting next me. Mmmmmmm.....

Nike and friend

While traveling, I often eat alone. This used to bother me and I would bring work to the table, continuously check my iphone or other gadget and be busy. After many meals, I have realized that I need to take time-outs when I work from the road and need to eat-- so it's a win-win. I eat and enjoy some people- watching!
Today I went to enjoy a salad at one of my favorite taco chains WAY after normal people lunch time. There was only one other customer in the establishment and she was seated far, far away from me. As I was sitting there, she was talking. Now with the advent of the bluetooth, I have had a harder time distinquishing if people are talking to themselves or if someone else is on the line. Well, in this case I just kept watching and still couldn't figure it out. Sentences seemed clear and concise and she continued to look in the same directions with hand gestures and inflection on phrases. (she was also very clean and neat looking). So I concluded that she was, in fact, having a conversation with someone other than herself. Well, shortly after that assumption was made, she got up and as I am sure you can surmise there was no bluetooth....girl was straight up talking to herself! Or so I thought... As the conversation continued (and got a little more heated), she was making her way across the restaurant. Of course, she stopped at my table and said hello. I casually said hello in return and then she introduced me to her "friend", Nike. I am not kidding. Nike. Awesome. (PS- there was not another person there. This was her imaginary friend.) How does one respond in this situation? Well, if you are me and unusual things happen often, you take it in stride and say hello to Nike and ask how the day is going. Well, the woman answered for Nike and the day was going fine. Then she proceeded to tell me their fight was about whether they should take the bus or take a walk downtown. (The rain had thrown them for a loop.) Then she walked away and told me to have a nice day. (Oh and Nike too!)
So in the spirit of my new pals--Have a nice day!

Now as a sidenote- I have nothing against the idea of an imaginary friend. They are said to be signs of intelligence in little kids. In fact, I had them when I was little (In addition to my other real friends.) Their names were Poppy and Hexon (per my mom). I don't really remember them, but have heard me speak of them on tapes from when I was 3 or so. What should be noted here is that my imaginary pals were the concept of a smart little kid with a vivid imagination. Maybe the same should be said for my pal at Qdoba....

The breakup needs to end

Today I was an adventurer in my own little hood. It was great! (My day, however was a 2 on a scale of 1 to 10, but that is not what this is about. It is about my adventures in the da hood.) I met a friend for a comfort-food lunch of soup and a grilled cheese. YUMMY! The place wasn't that far so I walked. It took me about 25 minutes to get there (because I walk at the pace of a snail). The whole time I kept thinking about my bike and how much quicker it would be if I rode a bike rather than walked. The hood is full of places to safely park a bike and it's Seattle, so people really don't steal anyway. The day was amazing (75 and sunny in the afternoon) so a walk was nice, but it would have been better if I could have been done the hill and back in a faster way. Due to the crap level of my day, I decided to have ice cream for dinner (yes, sometimes that happens mom. Don't worry, I'll have a healthy snack later.) My new obsession is a place called Molly Moon's ice cream. It's homemade with local, natural ingredients. The most amazing flavor ever---salted caramel. In the words of one of the favorites, it's a life changer! Seriously.

That aside, the location I go to is about 1.0 mile away. I should have walked (or biked) but I drove. As I was driving back, I started to think about my bike again...I need to end the break-up.

Let me explain-- shortly after moving to Seattle, I decided I needed to be a bicycle rider. I have a great bike and this is a city that is conducive to bike rides. I was geeked! I got the flat tired replaced, new grips, and it was all shiny and new again (not that it was ever not new.) I was excited. The beach is only 3 miles from my front door. One afternoon, I packed a lunch, a book and grabbed my helmet. And off I went. (I should have mentioned I live on a hill and not a small one. You have to go up or down no matter where you go.) So there I was riding down the 39th Street hill, just made it through the light and my brakes STOPPED WORKING! Seriously. WTF?! First, who else does that happen to? Second, why did I pay REI all that money if they didn't really fix the bike! Those were not actually my thoughts at the time. Rather, I believe I started to yell, Holy S*$T, holy S*#t, etc. I started to think through the hill, as the bike was picking up speed(there is minimal grass and luckily I had been walking so I knew right where the patch was that I needed.) Without thinking I supermanned off the bike and landed on the grass without injury. (I literally have no idea how that happened). Of course, all this happened in front of a group of people that were BBQ'ing. Awesome. One of them ran to me, one of them ran after the bike. (They still say hello when I walk past...again, awesome.) As my bike was handed back to me and I red-faced made my way back up the hill, I made the decision to break-up with my bicycle. Obviously, we were not in the same place. I wanted to be able to ride up and down hills. The bike wanted have some crazy adventure. Clearly, in different places. There was NO WAY I would ride that bike up or down a hill anytime soon! The bike (perhaps it needs a name?) has lived in my storage unit ever since. But after today, I think it's time to get back on the bike. The breakup has to end. Maybe we can be friends to start (and ride on flat land), and someday we could be back together...ride up and down the hills to greet friends and get an ice cream dinner. Here's to a future successful relationship with me and my bike! (I feel like there should be a Sesame Street song to accompany that statement...)

Seattle Recap

This past week (well last week now because I am so late in reporting) was the Seattle 3-Day event. It was weird to manage an event in my home city. In fact, once I was on-event I continued to forget that my house was only 45 minutes away. I think this was a saving grace to not be reminded that my bed and pillows were only a short drive down the road. I was definatel tempted!

The event went well overall, but there were gliches (as there always are). The important thing to remember is how we deal with those glitches. For example, instead of buidling a dining tent (because the ground was WAY too soft) we (well, the amazing tent boys and their helpers) built a dining area that Buzz-buzz called a Shanty-Town Dining tent. It was an array of tents that reminded me of the little fishing houses (or boats) in a remote fishing village. It was quirky but it had some charm.

The rain came on Thursday and stayed through Friday for most of the day. It went away for the most amazing day of walking ever (no joke- 72 and sunny. Perfect!). But then returned with a vengence on Sunday morning, just in time for breakfast. I am sad to report we all got caught in it. No one chose to dine under the tents, rather they waited in line for the buses with their plates of food. In hindsight, perhaps we should have provided each walker with a cute umbrella. Maybe next time? It dried out for the closing ceremonies. The walkers left happy, the staff left tired. And then I got to go home, to my own bed in my own house (even though it was a little messy). Delightful.

Skyscraper heels

On Friday I had the especially great experience of a significant flight delay for no apparent reason (sense the sarcasm?). There was no weather, no apparent airplane engine errors, etc. As a frequent traveler, I know that delays happen. And they are generally fine. I am prepared--I always have a good book and a fully charged iPod and definately always have work to complete (especially in event season)! With events coming up and many, many things left to do, I had high hopes to get some work done. Sadly, ATL has not gotten on board to provide weary travelers free and reliable internet. (It is a modern city, but still the south, which seems to mean slightly behind the times. I mean even CLE has internet!)

That said, I decided to enjoy the time. Afterall, I had a good book and my tunes. So, I just plugged in and started to do my favorite activity ever-- people-watching! Within minutes, I observed the following:

The slip and fall of a skyscraper heel wearer. This woman was the epitome of the "together traveler" (see previous post)- she had her matching Louis Vuitton suitcase and attache case, super-cute suit ensemble, and of course, the sky-high heels. As I was watching her approach, I was just thinking- awesome, another "together traveler". And then it happened. The wobble and the complete and total collapse of the together traveler. She straight-up bit it! Completely! If she were skiing, it would have been a yard-sale. I couldn't believe it. Before you think I am a total jerk--she was just fine. She stood up (a little brighter faced), brushed off the suit (damn, it was super cute), and picked up her things with the help of many others. She then just continued on her way--click, click, click, click, click, click. It was literally like it never happened. Except that it did. And it was just one more item added to the list of reasons why one should not wear high heels to the airport. I mean, even if you are conviced that you can only wear heels--put em away for the commute! No one is impressed. And in fact, I have now witnessed the risks.

And really, it's only a matter of time before TSA stops allowing spiked-heels onto the plane. Liquids were banished and haven't been allowed back. Those heels could definately be seen as a serious weapon, especially compared to my face lotion.

Airline Snob

For today's travel adventure I was headed to Atlanta. It's a quick trip, so I decided not to check a bag. I was on a direct flight (Amazing!). I was on time, not super early and not going to be running. good deal. I even packed on Monday night so I would make sure all my stuff fit and I didn't forget a thing. Well the best laid plans...
As I approached security with my at-home printed ticket, I realized my driver's license was NOT in my wallet. At all! (I believe it is in my regular travel bag at home in the pocket- where I ussually place it to get through security.) Since I had different travel gear, due to the carry-on, I only had my wallet. Luckily, I had my student ID from MSU. It was issued in 2003. Now, let me remind you, it's 2010. That's 7 years....but I figured I'd give it a whirl before I ran out the door and called the airline to book another flight while headed home to grab my passport. I had to give TSA every item in my wallet and they had to pad me down and check all my stuff, but I was able to get in! (Whew!) (And PS before you make fun of me, I am really not sure why I still carry my student ID, but it sure did come in handy!)
Sadly, the airline I was on today was one that I rarely travel on so I have ZERO status (now referred to as ghetto status). As it turns out, I have become an air passenger snob. I don't like to travel with the masses and have to fight my way to the back of the plane, fight over the ovhead bin space, or deal with unfamiiar travelers. Well, today that is exactly what I had to do. (sigh). I ended up in the last row of the plane, in the middle seat, between two large dudes with the seat reclined in front of me. That left me exactly 1 inch of space (argh!). Cue to a good nap and some chapters read in my good book, since clearly there was no space to get out a computer and work (a gift and an annoyance).
The highlight of my day was arriving at the Hotel Indigio- Atlanta. Love it! Seriously, it was like walking into a little bit of my dream house. Bright colors mixed with white, for a bright but cozy feel. Then mix-in a cozy chair and cute cottage touches--I am officially a huge fan!

Home

As you may have figured out from previous posts, I am "new" to the Seattle area. I put new in quotes because I have technically lived here since February (which means I am not really new). But let me explain the "new" a little better. Of the 7 months I have lived in Seattle, I have been gone for a total of 3.5 months. That means I have only been home in my new home for 3.5 months. In my opinion, that still makes me a "new" resident. What this means is that I am still learning about Seattle and figuring things out. What this also means, is that I have been able to spend some really good time with favorites who live so far away (hooray!). And lastly, it means I have been able to go back to my old home (Phoenix) far more than I anticipated. From a work perspective, it's kind of a bummer. But from a personal perspective, it's been so nice to transition away from there. No cold turkey for this girl!

Being gifted with the unexpected time in Phoenix, it has made me really start to think about what makes your home a home. If people ask why I moved to Seattle, I alwyas start by saying, "I lived in Phoenix for 6 years and it never felt like home". Oddly, by moving away it is more home now than it ever was when I lived there. This is not to say that I regret my move (I definately don't!), but it has made me appreciate what Phoenix has to offer.

So, in that vane (and in homage to one of my favorite bloggers) here are my Top Ten lists (don't worry list lady, they are an even number just for you) for both Seattle and Phoenix and why they each have a special place in my heart:

Phoenix Loves(since it was first in my adult life):

1. It never snows (I know this is an easy one, but I really hate scraping off a car before I have to get somewhere in the morning.)


2. You can swim outside practically every day of the year.


3. The first days it reaches 100. It actually feels good to be warmed all the way to your bones. (Believe me, it does get old 6 months in, but initally it's lovely.)


4. When trees are green, they look brilliantly green because the rest of the landscape is brown.


5. It made me appreciate brown and the various shades. (I am serious. The shades of brown can be really beautiful.)


6. Sunsets and sunrises are never quite as beautiful as they are in the desert. (sorry, Papa, but Lake Michigan sunsets just can't beat a good desert sunset.)


7. The feeling of being somewhere unexplored (even though it's a thriving metropolis you can drive 25 miles west or just south of Chandler and listerally be in the middle of nowhere)


8. And the most important- the people who helped shape 6 years of my life. It was a good ride and I would not have become who I am without those people. The good ones will always be part of me and part of my life.

Seattle Loves

1. The smell of salt water in the air (all the time!)


2. Being able to walk .5 miles and see water, boats, little shop, and a great market.


3. The way my garden grows! (It is amazing. I have never seen plants grow the way mine did and they were slightly neglected due to my travel schedule)


4. The availability of fresh food (fish and fruit being at the tippy-top of the list)


5. Coffee!


6. Culture at my fingertips.


7. The cityscape. Every time I cross the West Seattle bridge on Hwy 99, I grin from ear-to-ear that this is where I live!


8. How Mt Rainier still surprises when it appears as if out of nowhere (how a HUGE mountain can do that is amazing and delightful to me.)


9. That I can wear pants everyday and not sweat to death. (Grandma Schulte knees are not short-friendly which can pose a problem if you live in a place where it 100+ for 40 days out of the year.)


10. The People. The good friends who have taken me under their wings to introduce me to their home and help make it mine. And the new people I have met, who want this to be home as quickly as it can be.

In short, the common denominator here (and to my previous "homes") are the people who help shape that place in my memory. I am a lucky lady who has had many places to call home.

The Together Traveler

Today’s topic is the Together Traveler. The Together Traveler is that woman who walks through the airport in her heels, and trendy ensemble (can be a suit, jeans, whatever), with her little carry-on and a purse…yep, you know who I am talking about! She’s that person who never looks frazzled, that person who never gets sweaty from running (with 20 extra pounds of bags) from one terminal to another, that person who seems to float through the airport from security to gate. Even in the most hectic terminals, she still gets to where she needs to be on time and without a stitch of clothing, makeup, or hair out of place. When traveling to China a few years ago, my cousin (a favorite) made note of the Together Traveler we saw and we discussed these ladies at length during one of our many airport adventures. We both wondered how on earth they can do it.
Ever since that conversation, I have made note of all the Together Travelers I see. They are a rare but enviable breed that I strive to become. By now, I am sure you understand that I am not a Together Traveler. I strive to be, but inevitably I just don’t make the cut.
Now normally when I travel I sport the comfiest of comfy—favorite t-shirt, long-sleeve article, favorite jeans, and flip-flops. When packed into a tine can for 4 hours you need to be comfortable, that’s my normal motto. And frankly, I am typically traveling to a hotel or to a loved one—no need to be fancy.
Well, today I had high hopes. I was bumped to First Class (Thanks, US AIR!), had only on carry-on item, and had to be dressed because I am stepping off the plane and going directly into a meeting. So, I was half-way there! Alas, I opted not to wear my fancy shoes this am and instead sported my fav flops. But still, the rest of me was together. Well, then I needed to bring a few more items, so upped my carry-on to 2 bags (and not items that fit well together, so I am constantly shifting). And the end all, be all proof that I am NOT a Together Traveler—I spilled coffee on my white shirt! So, there it is, my small hopes of being a Together Traveler were dashed in the moments just before boarding.
So, now as I board the plane with two bags and a coffee-stained shirt, I have to wonder if my dream will ever come true….until next time!


(sorry guys, you have too little to carry to be included in thisimpressive status)

The M&M experiment

Today while picking up a fountain soda at the local 7-11 (it was a dreary day and additional caffeine was called for...don't judge me), there was a Buy 2, Get 1 Free deal on M&M's. Normally, I wouldn't even glance at this "sale", but they featured the new M&M flavors--coconut and pretzel. I was intrigued. I decided an M&M Tasting (or Experiement) was needed to determine if these new flavors could stand up to the classics- plain and peanut. The "free" bag was a plain bag for comparison sake.

Now, I am not a daily chocolate person (like others I know and love) but do enjoy a sweet and sugary pick-me-up when needed! A dear friend once noted that the combo of a Coke & plan M&M's was like the equivolent of crack for real people. On an event, I have been known to make an M&M run for the necessary suagr that one can require when staying awake for 20 hours, three days in a row. The peanut-butter variety is my current favorite because they are soft and teeth covered in metal need a little soft. That said, I still don't deem the peanut-butter a "real" M&M. It was a successful experiment that I very much enjoy.

So, back to the story. I left the 7-11 with the soda and the three mini-bags of M&M's. (It's a fat kid dream and a nutrionist's nightmare.) So, I got home and got the "tasting" ready- 3 of each type and a glass of water. First, the pretzel (Mostly, because I think the commercials are kind of fun), sip of water; then the coconut; sip of water; and lastly the plain.

My notes--The Pretzel M&M was okay. A little salty-sweet. Not terrible, but I am not rushing back for more. And in the future if I am craving a salty-sweet chocolate snack, I'll get chocoltae covered pretzels from Trader Joes (YUMMY!).

The Coconut M&M was not bad, but didn't quite make it to okay status. The coconut inside the M&M was hard. In my opinion, coconut inside a candy should be ooey-gooey and chewey, not hard. It should be noted that I heart coconut candy. (I actually love eating those pink, white, and brown coconut candies that no one else will ever eat...LOVE them! )

So, there it is. The Great M&M experiment.

My final conclusion: M&M's should stick to what they know-- chocolate and peanuts. Feel free to experiment on your own, it'll make your to-do list shrink almost instantly because you are so amped up (or that could be just me)!

Date Night

Today, I decided to take myself on a date. Yep, that's right! single gal in the city, enjoying some time alone. And it was delightful. Really, it started out just as a movie, but became the quintessential Saturday date night.

When I first moved to Phoenix and didn't know anyone, I always felt like I was missing out because I never saw the movies that played in theatres. Until one day, I thought to myself, "I am a grown-up and I am confident. I can go to a movie alone." I did it then and realized sometimes it's just nice to have an afternoon alone (even when other people might be interested). It's nice to be in a theatre and enjoy the movie. On the other hand, there are great things to be said for going with a friend. It was sunny, but chilly in Seattle today. Not a great day to head to the beach, or go paddle-boarding, or even hanging out at a park with a good book. So, I decided to go check out, "Eat, Pray, Love". I loved the book and thought the movie could be fun. I was right. Enjoyable. Even if you haven't read the book, you'll appreciate the story. While entertaining, it was a bit on the long side. (2.5 hours to be exact). It didn't feel that long, but afterward I was starving! (No popcorn for dinner when you have braces, I am sad to say.)

I decided to go to dinner. Not pick something up and take it home, but really go out to dinner alone. Now, outside of when I travel for work I don't normally eat alone. The idea of eating alone at a restaurant makes me uneasy. Asking for a table for one when I am "home", just seems sad and a little pathetic. But there was an amazing review of a sushi place in the paper today and it peaked my interest. And it was "old lady" dinner time (5:45pm) so I knew there wouldn't be a huge line. So I went. And it was GREAT! The food was delish! The service incredible. Oh, and I got a free roll because they were experimenting--Love it! I never once felt uncomfortable or uneasy. No one was staring at me. I didn't feel any pity coming my way. Instead I felt like a woman about town- sophisticated and cool. No one needs to know that my big evening plan was to go to Target. They could assume and make up a story that I was going to head to some big party and tell all the people there about the great new sushi place in Seattle. (which will happen at brunch tomorrow with the girls).

Oh, and I went to Target. What's not to love? (Someday I will explain my extreme love for that big box store.) All-in-all, my "date night" was great. I enjoyed a good movie and a yummy dinner. I had a good time and I think I will definately do it again sometime!

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As an aside---

When recently trying to answer some questions about my city for a friend's blog (http://lettersandlists.blogspot.com/), I realized I do not know nearly enough about the place I now call home. So with that in mind, I have decided that I will become a tourist in my town and check out something new and interesting about Seattle on weekends that I am home. It'll be home-town adventures!

Even in Australia

Do you remember the book, "Alexander and the no good, very bad day"?
It was a favorite in my house growing up because my little bro's name is Alexander. When we were little we thought it was a book written just for him. In my little kid mind, I was very sad that no one thought to write a book specifically for me. Anyway, I digress... Back to my point. if you don't remember, the book is about this kid who has bad things happen to him all day. At one point, he thinks about moving to Australia, but at the end he sees "even bad days happen in Australia". The book is reminiscent of my day. Today was Jessica and the no good, very bad day. Okay, maybe not very bad but definately not very good. Today started off going well. I started out with good coffee, nice breezes, and a good chat with a collegue. I had high hopes. Maybe that's where I went wrong...

When I went to do laundry this morning, I had THE incident with a spider. Now let me explain--since moving to Seattle I have had many encounters with spiders and the like. I started to realize why H has such a huge fear. (I really never understood it before moving to her old stomping grounds.) Spiders in Seattle are scary. They are big, mean, "I'm going to eat your face" kind of spiders, not the wimpy daddy-long-legs who seem friendly (like Charlotte) that I had in Phoenix. Because of the frequency of incidents, I have a system in place to kill said spiders in my home. I bombed the place, but it seems the spiders really like my cozy cottage, so I use the newpaper and move them to the great outdoors where they belong. Spiders outside are a different story. They create amazing webs to catch bugs, but often have caught me instead. (My laundry room is outside the back door in it's own little room). That said I typically check where I am walking when I exit my home. Today I forgot. Big mistake.

I am out of practice, since I have been gone for a month. Today I just willy-nilly walked out to do laundry and walked smack-dab into the middle of a gargantuan spider web with the spider still in it! And while that is traumatic enough, it gets worse. The spider ended up on my face! (Insert chilly-willies here...ugh!). I felt like I was in a scene from a movie. I dropped my laundry immediately and just screamed. Swatted the spider away and promptly stepped on it. (For those Buddhists out there, this is not a common practice). I then proceded to walk (er, run) immediately indoors and shower! Blech! (For those who care, I did leave the laundry on the ground until after the shower and when I came back out I was very ready!).

I hope, dear reader, that you now understand THE incident. I hope it was THE one and only wherein a spider is on my person, specificially my face!

Following that episode, I thought it would be an uneventful day. wrong again. There were no more instances with bugs, animals or nature, but just a bummer of a doctor appointment. Doctor appointments are a VERY regular part of my life at home. I think one of the things I like best about my travel schedule is that I can live in denial about anything actually being wrong with me. However, when I come home and see one of the "ologists" (my term of endearment for myteam of doctors), reality rudely hits me smack in the face (similar to the spider this morning).
As I said, when I travel I forget (or try to) that I need to take it a little slower than most 30-year olds. I tend to ignore that everyone doesn't wake up stiff and sore everyday. I forget that most everyone can run, sit Indian-style, and get easily to the floor (and up again). I mean, don't get me wrong, there are always little reminders, but I push them aside. I just take the road less traveled (usually the longer way isn't as rocky). I just think of my stiffness as a result of being up for 22 hours of a 24 hour day. And I pull up a chair rather than sit on the floor. Easy fixes. I also work on an event where we work because 1 in 8 people get diagnosed with a disease that could kill you. It's a daily reality check that I am lucky. I am alive and basically well. I just need to readjust my gauge for "normal".

That readjusted gauge for "normal" and the silver-lining of things are typically how I go through life. It could always be worse. And who wants to be friends with a person who is constantly whining? I know I sure don't. Plus, if I complained about how unfair this life is that I was dealt and wanted a redo, there would be so much that I would miss and so much I would never change or give up! But that is a story for another day.

Though my normal life is lined with silver, I do have days where I do feel bad for myself and wallow just a little and wish that things could be different. Today is one of those days. I saw the "bone ologist" (Yes, I know the actualy name but "bone ologist" is just more fun). She is a lovely woman and very smart. Her words to me today were, "You are a mystery". Throughout our conversations, she kept avoiding the words weird, unusual, rare, and unknown. I know this because she would start to say them and then find something different to say. Today she told me that she is still unsure of the reasons why I ache and swell, and lose bone movement. She took my case to a panel (kind of cool) and they found me "perplexing". When some of the smartest minds are perplexed, it doesn't do much to provide hope or a silver-lining. My old doctor called me a walking science experiment and wanted to write a book about me. For intellectuals, this is a nerdy kind of cool. And my nerdy side thinks so too. I am fasciated by the reasons why I am this way and what could work to make it better. Most days I move along and just think, this is my life and it's good. But, on days like today- the no good, very bad day kind of days, I just want to be "normal". Questions that I normally don't allow to come to the surface arise. Questions like- "who will ever love me when I am this broken?", "what would my life have become without this illness?", "what adventures will I miss out on because something degenerates so much it creates a serious disability?". Those are not questions I want to ask. Those are questions no person should have to ask. Those are questions for a no-good, very bad day. Even in Australia.

I hope tomorrow is lined in silver and there are no spiders!

Terminals, Airports, and seat-mates...oh my!

And back to airports, airplanes and the random ways people travel. If you really think about it, airline travel is little more than a flying city bus. Poeple may have paid more for their tickets, but their habits are not that different. In fact, I often wonder why I feel it's okay to abandon all my belongings when I brave the bathroom or why I am not completely repulsed when the person sitting next to me starts to snore. (It is annoying, but I don't find it disgusting as I would in a bus or other public transit situation.) There are rules, guidelines and siggestions, but genreally I have found people abandon all good common sense and decency when entering an airport terminal or airplane. And that brings me to yesterday's experiences...
Experience One-- I arrived at the airport insanely early due to a wedding, so my dropoff time was about 2 hours before take-off. On a low-travel day like Saturday that leaves lots of time in the terminal. I grabbed a coffee, bought a newspaper (I like to be a little old school) and settled in near a window. People started to pile in, but this was a HUGE gate area, so it was still calm. Then I started to hear it...the snoring, like I have never heard. We were in a terminal, not a bedroom or even a couch. This man was completely out! I smirked a little and just cranked up the tunes and tuned him right out! Win- Jessica! I swear, it got louder! I am not sure how this was possible, but it really got loud. So loud, in fact, that a little girl nearby asked her mother where the train was because she could hear the engine! Yep, that's right. The man was snoring SO loudly that a child thought she was going on a train ride rather than an airplane. Several people in the area heard her and just cracked up. It's all about perspective. :) After I stopped laughing, my thought was that surely this man was going to be my seat-mate. Ugh. But as luck should have it, he had missed his plane to Madison and wasn't going to Chicago at all. Whew! That was close....
Or so I thought. The flight to Chicago was uneventful and nice actually. I had a full row to myself. Delightful! I wondered if my luck might remain on the Seattle leg and got a little bit excited. Sadly, no. Although my status now allows me to be automatically seated in the exit row, the planes are still FULL. I would say, as a rule, I am an excellent person to be seated next to. I don't take up overhead bin space (my stuff fits under the seat), I keep to myself, plug in my iPod, and read. Sometimes I sleep, but within my seat. I don't spread out and I am not large enough to expand into my seat-mates' space. Unfortunately, I have found that this done not guaratee a good space experience, even in the exit row! I was the in the aisle so I was seated last in the succession of my seat-mates. The man seated in the middle seat looked pissed when I went to sit down. He clearly planned to take-over two seats on the 3.5 hour flight from Chicago to Seattle. I settled in, opened my book and kept my arms within the confines of the armreast areas. As we reached the appropriate altitude said man got out his computer and started to work. He proceded to elbow me for a solid 20 minutes because he couldn't figure out how to open the table. UGH! Not only was it annoying, but it hurt. (I cracked a rib last week and it's still tender- I will tell that story soon). So instead of arguing with him, I simply leaned into the aisle a little more. Big mistake! The man decided that this was now his space. He leaned over and took up all his space, part of my space and part of the space on his other side. Uncool! I went to the bathroom (carelessly abandoning my things) and when I returned he had literally taken over my space. I am not a large person or mean, for that matter, but I decided enough was enough! The cart was coming down the aisle and I needed to be in my seat, not the aisle, so I did what any mature person would do and played elbow hockey for the duration of the flight. I know, mature. He never got it. Now, I travel enough to see patterns. Women never take over other people's space (unless they really are just too large for the seat), it's always men. Now I don't mean to bash men. I like men as much as the next gal, but I want my own space on an airplane! So, to all of you who read this (all 3 of you...) spread the word, here are the beginnings of the Airplane Rules and Etiquette:
1. As the flight attendants suggest, overhead bin space should be reserved for large bags, not your coat or hat. If there is space remaining, then place said item in the overhead space. Until then it stays in your lap on the floor in front of you.
2. If you sit in the aisle seat, please remember that you are going to have to get up many, many times so your fellow passengers can get out. Deal!
3. Armrests-- There are rules. Here we go. The window seat uses the armrest closest to the window, the middle seat uses the armrest closest to the window and the aisle seat using the armrest away from the aisle. The aisle armrest is not a usable space. People walk past, carts bump, it's just not a good space.
Basically, all I ask for with these rules and of my fellow passengers is a little common sense and common courtesy. Remember what you learned in Kindergarten? Nap time, show-and-tell, and sharing...bring it forward in your life. It'll make things so much more pleasant for those who come into contact with you.

Another one bites the dust...

Well, anyone that knows me knows that I cannot seem to avoid leaving toiletry items at locations following my adventures. A friend challenged me with keeping the same razor and shampoo, etc for the duration of ym busy travel season this year. As of last week, I was stoked to realize I have made it through 4 hotel stays, 4 bus tranisitons, 12 shower truck experiences, and a few trips to alternate shower locations (friends' homes, parents' house, etc). I was feeling REALLY good about the fact that I had made all these transitions and still had the same shampoo container and the SAME razor. Until yesterday...(insert a very sad face here). I am on the vacation portion of this adventure (hooray!) and went to shower after blueberry picking. I realized I had abandoned another toiletry item in some location. Very sad.

My friend should have placed a bet because she has won. The universe has one more abandoned item....

Adventures before 10am...

Yesterday was Day One of the Chicago 3-Day for the Cure event. The ceremony started on time (3 weeks in a row!) and the day began with 1600 walkers, 450 crew and 35 staff plus some special guests....

My day was planned to be a little short out on the route, but special ops came up.

There was a flood of water at Grab A and some surprises along the route---
Whoops!

Before 10am, I played the role of Minnie Mouse, town engineer, police officer and construction worker. Really, it wouldn't be an event without a coning mission!

Let's get Day two rolling...it's Shower Saturday!

Ah, Cleveland!

Well, I am already a few days behind. Shocker!

By this time I am already in Chicago. I have endured some drama, some rama, and of course, some fun! Here is a brief synopsis of the last week....

What trip would be complete without a trip (or many) to Kinkos? Each city I venture to includes at least two trips to a Kinko's location. And no trip to a Kinkos* is complete without some form of entertainment. This trip was no different.

As I was waiting for the line to die down (I mean two people is a lot to handle), I was directly behind a real-life "Glamour don't". For those of you who do not know what that means, take an adventure to your local drug store and pick up a copy of Glamour magazine. Not only will you find helpful tips on your next season's fashions, women's issues, but you will find the famous (and funny) Glamour don'ts page. Let's just say--no one should be on that page! Eeks!

I snuck this photo by pretending to check email. :) Enjoy!

Of course, one trip to Kinko's in a day is clearly not enough. Buzz-buzz and I ventured back. But in the meantime, we spent some time with a few of the "favorites". We ate too much, laughed a lot, and enjoyed a little time in downtown Cleveland.

Following the fun, it was time to pack it up and get ready for the event. We moved onto the buses and set the alarms for 3:40am. (It is as painful as you think it will be). Getting up that early, I have leanred that the coldest part of the day is really just before the sun rises. (And I swear it is the quietest time of the day, as well.)

Day One began with a great start.

From there, some drama ensued but the event went on. The Command Queen and I decided that we needed a little more fun and a little less drama. Our weather gnome* (Bernard) is currently vacationing in Vegas so some of our friends gathered some of his friends to join us in Command. Meet Oscar and Franklin---

Here's to a season without weather and much incident! Until we meet again...

(*Sidenote: Kinkos is now officially called FedEx Office, but for me it just doesn't have the same ring so I call it Kinkos!.)

(*A weather gnome is a little something we discovered last year to help keep an eye on the approaching weather and keep it at bay.)

Well hello there! Welcome to my blog. After some serious thought and some suggestion by a few of the "favorites" I have decided to start a blog dedicated to my random travel adventures. Anyone that knows me knows about the weird and random things that happen to me and around me when I travel The travel can be by car, bus, train or airplane--no matter, weirdness happens!
Some of the best stories from the past include-- the man removing his pants in the airplane terminal, the shooting that happened on the "El" in Chicago, and oh so many more...

I may venture onto other topics, but will mostly muse about travel and adventures.
Here's to more big adventures!