I know I've been pretty silent lately, and that's mostly because not much has been going on in my sometimes very routine life. But today I had an experience I had to share.
My work often requires that I be downtown in the early hours of the morning (4:00a). While the work itself takes place in a hotel lobby, between activity I like to walk to the local Starbucks (1 block away) for coffee and fresh air.
This morning during one of my breaks I decided to walk to another Starbucks 2 blocks away (yes, they're THAT close around here). As I approached the shop there was a "crazy" homeless man outside yelling about being 41 years old and having died of hypothermia, but being saved by a cop.
As I walked by him he focused his comments towards me. Happily I was at the shop and took my escape through the doors (or so I thought). As I ordered by Grande Non-fat Latte someone besides me yelled "I need a coffee!" And sure enough, it was "him." The Barista asked if he was with me and when he learned he was not, asked him to leave. The request soon escalated to the Barista threatening to call the cops so the man left.
While he made my coffee, the Barista and I chatted. I told him I usually went to another shop nearby and he said he hoped this experience didn't keep me away in the future. So nice. :)
I got my coffee and left, only to find "him" still outside the door. As I walked by, he fell in-step with me and began chatting, asking my name (he wanted to marry me, his name was Bill), telling me about his dead mother, etc. I did not engage him, but I also didn't feel threatened ... he was just a confused and probably drunk guy. My only fear was that I would trip over him as he staggered along.
When I got back to the hotel I told Bill I was back at work and said "Good-bye." He opened the door for me, then followed me in! Because I work at this particular hotel often, the front desk staff and I are friendly so I just approached the desk and said "You have a visitor you might want to get rid of." But before they could get around from the back of the desk I heard Bill yell "What are you doing here?" I turned around to see the Starbucks Barista walking past him directly up to me. Before I could say a word he asked "Are you where you need to be?" Stunned, I nodded yes. I couldn't believe it! When he saw Bill take off with me down the street he left the Starbucks and followed us to make sure I was safe!
Then, in the pandamonium that broke out trying to get Bill out of the hotel I lost the Barista.
Although I had to leave downtown as soon as my work was over, I will be back tomorrow ... and you can be sure that I will get his name and Starbucks corproate will know about their wonderful employee.
So for today, despite the cold outside, I am warm; my heart filled with the kindness and caring of a stranger. Chivalry is NOT dead ... at least not at Starbucks in Portland, OR.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Life's Little Surprises
I was reminded twice today about the blind pleasure that comes from life's little surprises.
The first reminder started out sad. After 3 years of partnership, my business partner is moving to the East Coast. Bummer. Meeting Michelle was a complete happen-stance. My previous business partner and I had come into more work that either of us could handle ... so a search went out for someone that was reliable and capable to assist us. My business partner's husband's busines partner had a sister that was available ... Michelle.
After the event was over my partner decided she couldn't keep working at that pace and quit. I went completely into panic mode! While I was wallowing in my panic, I was also putting together a running team for the World's Longest Relay ... and wouldn't you know it Michelle and her husband are runners! So I invited them to run on my team and I spent most of my non-running/awake time worrying about what I was going to do for a business partner. At the end of the race, Michelle said she was interested ... and so we began.
I can only say that she was a godsend and we balanced each other perfectly; our kids were close to the same age, our husbands were very much alike (traveling salesmen), we like to be active and generally saw the world very similarly.
So today, as I said "Happy Sabbatical" to her ... because she IS coming back ... I realized how the cogs on the wheel that is life lined up so perfectly for her to join my life. They say everybody comes into your life, whether for a minute or a lifetime, for a reason. I learned things, saw things differently, saw people differently and am better because I know her ... the sister of a friend's husband's business partner.
The second surprise has been in my life for about the same amount of time and it makes me fill with awe when I think about it and my involvement. I'm talking about the Red Dress Party. Some of you may have seen my pictures and brief descriptions of this event, but I don't think I've ever done it true justice.
Just over 3 years ago, I ran into two friends I hadn't seen in years. They had, off-and-on, sent me invitations to a "Red Dress Party," but I didn't understand what it was, why I should buy tickets and I was sure I'd never get Tony into a red dress, so we hadn't attended and I'd lost touch with them. But here they were, face-to-face with me asking me to help them organize a party. "But I don't do parties," I said. "Please," they said. So I agreed.
The first year I was completely overwhelmed and barely raised my head to get the bigger picture. But I helped coordinate logistics, we went, we had a blast, I said I'd do it again.
The next year, they asked me to become a Board Member. I was blown away! I was the first woman and first straight person to serve on the board ... I was thrilled and honored. Now the realization of what was going on really began to sink in.
So now I tell you the story that has touched me so deeply and makes me proud and humbled to be involved in this wonderful event every day.
In 2001, on SuperBowl Sunday, 75 people crowded into the basement of a downtown home to party. The only requirement? Everybody had to wear a Red Dress. The dresses part began because some of the women complained about how they were expected to dress in cocktail dresses in the middle of winter while the guys got to wear pants and long sleeves. Somewhere along the line somebody decided the dresses had to be red.
By 2003, the party size had outgrown the basement, so they moved to a vacant grain silo and charged money for tickets. It cost money to put on the event, but the organizers committed to giving all proceeds to local organizations that were helping people living with or affected by AIDS. There were 325 guests.
Here we are in 2010, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the party. It has become THE party in Portland, each year selling out at 2,000 tickets (frankly, we can't handle a crowd bigger than that) and has donated more than $158,000 to local charities.
The Board has been awarded the Purely For Love award by Portland Monthly magazine because everybody associated with the event is a volunteer. Nobody, with the exception of the entertainment at the party, gets paid for their work. We have literally 1,000s of volunteer hours that go into every party and a volunteer workforce of 100s that help us get it all done.
To pull this off takes not just volunteers, but givers. Our state's liquor laws require that we have 3 hot and 3 cold food items availabe for all attendees all night (that's from 7:00p to 4:00a for those of you that care). Local restaurants, bakeries and caterers give food so the party can go on. Local and National breweries and distilleries give the alcohol, beer and wine that keep the party going. And many of our talent performs for free, or donates their fee back to us.
Often we're asked, why shouldn't I just give my money directly to the beneficiaries? The organizations that receive the money say it means more to them than twice the amount from a grant. Why? Because the Red Dress Party gives with no strings attached. They don't have to earmark our money for a specific program. When they get the money it's for any need. And in these financially trying times, there is a lot of need.
All this is so wonderful ... but here's where it gets really special; this little basement party has grown to a National event. This year Seattle, Las Vegas, Chicago and Hawaii will also host parties. And next year San Diego is going to host their first Red Dress Party. WOW! Every year we have representatives from several cities across the country attend and contact us about starting a party in their area. Double-WOW!
The dedication, focus, foresight, love, passion and enthusiasm for this event overwhelms me. Working with these people (the board, the volunteers, the attendees) I have seen love and acceptance like I never knew existed in a community and my fellow board members are easily listed amongst my best friends.
Attendees include gays, lesbians, bi-sexual, transgenders and straights. When I meet someone I don't care which they are and they don't xare which I am ... because just like being at a nudist camp, everybody's equal. We have a bond, we're Red Dress Partiers! Even Tony.
The first reminder started out sad. After 3 years of partnership, my business partner is moving to the East Coast. Bummer. Meeting Michelle was a complete happen-stance. My previous business partner and I had come into more work that either of us could handle ... so a search went out for someone that was reliable and capable to assist us. My business partner's husband's busines partner had a sister that was available ... Michelle.
After the event was over my partner decided she couldn't keep working at that pace and quit. I went completely into panic mode! While I was wallowing in my panic, I was also putting together a running team for the World's Longest Relay ... and wouldn't you know it Michelle and her husband are runners! So I invited them to run on my team and I spent most of my non-running/awake time worrying about what I was going to do for a business partner. At the end of the race, Michelle said she was interested ... and so we began.
I can only say that she was a godsend and we balanced each other perfectly; our kids were close to the same age, our husbands were very much alike (traveling salesmen), we like to be active and generally saw the world very similarly.
So today, as I said "Happy Sabbatical" to her ... because she IS coming back ... I realized how the cogs on the wheel that is life lined up so perfectly for her to join my life. They say everybody comes into your life, whether for a minute or a lifetime, for a reason. I learned things, saw things differently, saw people differently and am better because I know her ... the sister of a friend's husband's business partner.
The second surprise has been in my life for about the same amount of time and it makes me fill with awe when I think about it and my involvement. I'm talking about the Red Dress Party. Some of you may have seen my pictures and brief descriptions of this event, but I don't think I've ever done it true justice.
Just over 3 years ago, I ran into two friends I hadn't seen in years. They had, off-and-on, sent me invitations to a "Red Dress Party," but I didn't understand what it was, why I should buy tickets and I was sure I'd never get Tony into a red dress, so we hadn't attended and I'd lost touch with them. But here they were, face-to-face with me asking me to help them organize a party. "But I don't do parties," I said. "Please," they said. So I agreed.
The first year I was completely overwhelmed and barely raised my head to get the bigger picture. But I helped coordinate logistics, we went, we had a blast, I said I'd do it again.
The next year, they asked me to become a Board Member. I was blown away! I was the first woman and first straight person to serve on the board ... I was thrilled and honored. Now the realization of what was going on really began to sink in.
So now I tell you the story that has touched me so deeply and makes me proud and humbled to be involved in this wonderful event every day.
In 2001, on SuperBowl Sunday, 75 people crowded into the basement of a downtown home to party. The only requirement? Everybody had to wear a Red Dress. The dresses part began because some of the women complained about how they were expected to dress in cocktail dresses in the middle of winter while the guys got to wear pants and long sleeves. Somewhere along the line somebody decided the dresses had to be red.
By 2003, the party size had outgrown the basement, so they moved to a vacant grain silo and charged money for tickets. It cost money to put on the event, but the organizers committed to giving all proceeds to local organizations that were helping people living with or affected by AIDS. There were 325 guests.
Here we are in 2010, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the party. It has become THE party in Portland, each year selling out at 2,000 tickets (frankly, we can't handle a crowd bigger than that) and has donated more than $158,000 to local charities.
The Board has been awarded the Purely For Love award by Portland Monthly magazine because everybody associated with the event is a volunteer. Nobody, with the exception of the entertainment at the party, gets paid for their work. We have literally 1,000s of volunteer hours that go into every party and a volunteer workforce of 100s that help us get it all done.
To pull this off takes not just volunteers, but givers. Our state's liquor laws require that we have 3 hot and 3 cold food items availabe for all attendees all night (that's from 7:00p to 4:00a for those of you that care). Local restaurants, bakeries and caterers give food so the party can go on. Local and National breweries and distilleries give the alcohol, beer and wine that keep the party going. And many of our talent performs for free, or donates their fee back to us.
Often we're asked, why shouldn't I just give my money directly to the beneficiaries? The organizations that receive the money say it means more to them than twice the amount from a grant. Why? Because the Red Dress Party gives with no strings attached. They don't have to earmark our money for a specific program. When they get the money it's for any need. And in these financially trying times, there is a lot of need.
All this is so wonderful ... but here's where it gets really special; this little basement party has grown to a National event. This year Seattle, Las Vegas, Chicago and Hawaii will also host parties. And next year San Diego is going to host their first Red Dress Party. WOW! Every year we have representatives from several cities across the country attend and contact us about starting a party in their area. Double-WOW!
The dedication, focus, foresight, love, passion and enthusiasm for this event overwhelms me. Working with these people (the board, the volunteers, the attendees) I have seen love and acceptance like I never knew existed in a community and my fellow board members are easily listed amongst my best friends.
Attendees include gays, lesbians, bi-sexual, transgenders and straights. When I meet someone I don't care which they are and they don't xare which I am ... because just like being at a nudist camp, everybody's equal. We have a bond, we're Red Dress Partiers! Even Tony.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
I Love San Francisco!
I guess I'm not always so good at this blogging thing ... LOL! I think about what I'm going to say in my head, then never get it online. UGH!
Well, before I tell you about San Franscico, I must wrap up our last day in Lake Tahoe.
Tony and I returned to our favorite snowshoeing spot only to find it very windy with some snow-laiden clouds looming on the horizon. But that didn't stop us. We "hiked" the 1/2 mile to our favorite rock, shead some clothes (even in the cold snowshoeing makes you hot) and cracked open a bottle of wine.
So there we are, sitting pretty sans clothes, drinking wine and eating cheese and crackers when we hear voices! We turn around to find two guys and their dogs coming up the trail. Luckily the dogs found us first and we were able to get some covering on before the guys got too close. Actually, I hardly think they noticed us as they were on a mission to get to the top of the mountain ... which they did in really good time.
We stayed about 45 minutes longer, until the wind was just getting too brisk. On the way back to the car we pass some really old cabins that have some of the most wonderful views on the lake. We "broke onto" one of the decks, relaxed a bit in the sunshine sheltered from the wind and finished our wine. Then we were off to the car.
On the way back we stopped at Camp Richardson. It had been recommended by a local as having a great restaurant and bar so we thought we'd check it out. Camp Richardson is located right on the lake's edge and has a large marina that is very busy in the summer. Although there were onyl about 10 people in the entire place when we were there, the bartender said in the summer the decks are full and the guests are 5 deep at the bar.
As we sat at the bar, looking out over the beautiful lake I said "I'll jump in." And Tony, knowing me so well said "I know you will." But the bartender, not knowing me so well said "I'll buy a round if you do." I didn't need any more encouragement than that so off we went. Tony brought the blanket from the car and we walked out on the pier until the crystal clear water looked deep enough for me to dive in. And I did!
Much to my surprise it was still only chest deep, and although it was very cold, it didn't take my breath away like I thought it would. Unfortunately, the pier doesn't have a ladder to get out, so with Tony's help I had to climb out of the water ... which is kinda difficult when your muscles are freezing.
I re-dressed and returned to the bar, only to have the bartender say he missed it. Luckily, Tony had taken photos as proof, so we showed him and good to his word he bought us a round of drinks. Within minutes a guy walked into the bar and said "I hear someone just jumped into the lake." Word sure spreads fast in a small community. Oh yeah, before we left, I did it again. Just because.
Thursday night Tony and I went to dinner on our own to the Edgewood Country Club. In past years we've gone to The Chart House, but we have one in Portland and wanted to try something different. Wow! I highly recommend this place. It's right on the lake and if the weather had been clear it would have had a killer sunset. As it was, by the time we got to dinner snow had started falling and everything was covered in clouds. But the food and service was amazing and we're definitely going to return.
Friday we drove the 3 hours to San Francisco, arriving in time to drop off our bags at the hotel and catch a late lunch at the Hard Rock on the pier. Nether of the kids had ever been to San Francisco so we ended up turning them lose for a while while we walked up to Chinatown and Amante's for some excercise and a drink.
When dinner came around we let the kids decide what they wanted ... and it was seafood. We had gone through the hotel book and selected a restaurant, but when we went online to see their menu we decided it was a little expensive. So a quick call to the concierge got us a recommendation and reservation at Pompei's Grotto. It's on the wharf, but on the West end past the tourist places.
We were so glad we made the change. The food was fantastic, the prices were great and it wasn't crowded with tourists.
Saturday we woke to a very sunny and warm day so we took the kids through North Beach to Chinatown to Union Square ... shopping all the way. I ended up having to purchase a tank top as the long-sleeved t-shirt I was wearing was roasting! Tony has a short fuse for shopping and the hills don't do so well with his knees, so we decided to let the kids carry-on while we returned towards North Beach. We found a sidewalk table at the North Beach Restaurant on the corners of Green, Columbus and Stockton ... a great location for people watching. So we spent a couple of hours over appetizers and a bottle (or two) of wine until the kids returned. Then we ventured off to Tonmy's favorite hat shop where everybody was treated to new hats (we probably should have gotten them before spending the day in the sun).
Saturday night we had dinner at Frienze by Night (in North Beach) and while the kids returned to the nightlife on the wharf, Tony and I went to check in on friends at Amante's.
Sunday morning was another beautiful day so we packed up the car and headed to the Golden Gate Bridge on our way out of town. Tony and I have visited San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge many times and have never experienced the kind of weather we had this weekend. I am so thankful for the kids' sake.
I just can't say enough good things about San Francisco. If we could, I would live there in a minute. It's a very ecclectic, walkable city where everybody is friendly. Even our son, who hates going downtown Portland because he doesn't feel safe (it is safe, he just doesn't feel it) felt safe in San Francisco. I'm hoping that we'll get down there more once Ashton's off to college. Tony gets there on work every couple of months so hopefully then I'll be able to "ride along."
The drive home was, well, long. Exactly 10 hours from door to door ... and wouldn't you know it 5 miles across the Oregon border is started raining ... and never stopped!
We've been home for a few days now and the weather has been hit-and-miss. Raining/hailing one minute and sunshine the next. I'm getting very busy with my Red Dress Party (www.reddresspdx.com) party that's April 17th ... I'm on the board and am the operations manager for the event. It's a great cause and I recommend you take a look at the website. Even if you can't attend, it's a great story about how it all started and how it's grown.
I'll try to be better about my postings. :)
Well, before I tell you about San Franscico, I must wrap up our last day in Lake Tahoe.
Tony and I returned to our favorite snowshoeing spot only to find it very windy with some snow-laiden clouds looming on the horizon. But that didn't stop us. We "hiked" the 1/2 mile to our favorite rock, shead some clothes (even in the cold snowshoeing makes you hot) and cracked open a bottle of wine.
So there we are, sitting pretty sans clothes, drinking wine and eating cheese and crackers when we hear voices! We turn around to find two guys and their dogs coming up the trail. Luckily the dogs found us first and we were able to get some covering on before the guys got too close. Actually, I hardly think they noticed us as they were on a mission to get to the top of the mountain ... which they did in really good time.
We stayed about 45 minutes longer, until the wind was just getting too brisk. On the way back to the car we pass some really old cabins that have some of the most wonderful views on the lake. We "broke onto" one of the decks, relaxed a bit in the sunshine sheltered from the wind and finished our wine. Then we were off to the car.
On the way back we stopped at Camp Richardson. It had been recommended by a local as having a great restaurant and bar so we thought we'd check it out. Camp Richardson is located right on the lake's edge and has a large marina that is very busy in the summer. Although there were onyl about 10 people in the entire place when we were there, the bartender said in the summer the decks are full and the guests are 5 deep at the bar.
As we sat at the bar, looking out over the beautiful lake I said "I'll jump in." And Tony, knowing me so well said "I know you will." But the bartender, not knowing me so well said "I'll buy a round if you do." I didn't need any more encouragement than that so off we went. Tony brought the blanket from the car and we walked out on the pier until the crystal clear water looked deep enough for me to dive in. And I did!
Much to my surprise it was still only chest deep, and although it was very cold, it didn't take my breath away like I thought it would. Unfortunately, the pier doesn't have a ladder to get out, so with Tony's help I had to climb out of the water ... which is kinda difficult when your muscles are freezing.
I re-dressed and returned to the bar, only to have the bartender say he missed it. Luckily, Tony had taken photos as proof, so we showed him and good to his word he bought us a round of drinks. Within minutes a guy walked into the bar and said "I hear someone just jumped into the lake." Word sure spreads fast in a small community. Oh yeah, before we left, I did it again. Just because.
Thursday night Tony and I went to dinner on our own to the Edgewood Country Club. In past years we've gone to The Chart House, but we have one in Portland and wanted to try something different. Wow! I highly recommend this place. It's right on the lake and if the weather had been clear it would have had a killer sunset. As it was, by the time we got to dinner snow had started falling and everything was covered in clouds. But the food and service was amazing and we're definitely going to return.
Friday we drove the 3 hours to San Francisco, arriving in time to drop off our bags at the hotel and catch a late lunch at the Hard Rock on the pier. Nether of the kids had ever been to San Francisco so we ended up turning them lose for a while while we walked up to Chinatown and Amante's for some excercise and a drink.
When dinner came around we let the kids decide what they wanted ... and it was seafood. We had gone through the hotel book and selected a restaurant, but when we went online to see their menu we decided it was a little expensive. So a quick call to the concierge got us a recommendation and reservation at Pompei's Grotto. It's on the wharf, but on the West end past the tourist places.
We were so glad we made the change. The food was fantastic, the prices were great and it wasn't crowded with tourists.
Saturday we woke to a very sunny and warm day so we took the kids through North Beach to Chinatown to Union Square ... shopping all the way. I ended up having to purchase a tank top as the long-sleeved t-shirt I was wearing was roasting! Tony has a short fuse for shopping and the hills don't do so well with his knees, so we decided to let the kids carry-on while we returned towards North Beach. We found a sidewalk table at the North Beach Restaurant on the corners of Green, Columbus and Stockton ... a great location for people watching. So we spent a couple of hours over appetizers and a bottle (or two) of wine until the kids returned. Then we ventured off to Tonmy's favorite hat shop where everybody was treated to new hats (we probably should have gotten them before spending the day in the sun).
Saturday night we had dinner at Frienze by Night (in North Beach) and while the kids returned to the nightlife on the wharf, Tony and I went to check in on friends at Amante's.
Sunday morning was another beautiful day so we packed up the car and headed to the Golden Gate Bridge on our way out of town. Tony and I have visited San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge many times and have never experienced the kind of weather we had this weekend. I am so thankful for the kids' sake.
I just can't say enough good things about San Francisco. If we could, I would live there in a minute. It's a very ecclectic, walkable city where everybody is friendly. Even our son, who hates going downtown Portland because he doesn't feel safe (it is safe, he just doesn't feel it) felt safe in San Francisco. I'm hoping that we'll get down there more once Ashton's off to college. Tony gets there on work every couple of months so hopefully then I'll be able to "ride along."
The drive home was, well, long. Exactly 10 hours from door to door ... and wouldn't you know it 5 miles across the Oregon border is started raining ... and never stopped!
We've been home for a few days now and the weather has been hit-and-miss. Raining/hailing one minute and sunshine the next. I'm getting very busy with my Red Dress Party (www.reddresspdx.com) party that's April 17th ... I'm on the board and am the operations manager for the event. It's a great cause and I recommend you take a look at the website. Even if you can't attend, it's a great story about how it all started and how it's grown.
I'll try to be better about my postings. :)
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Spring Break -- A Little of This, A Little of That
This has been a week of doing a little bit of a lot of things.
That is partially because the Heavenly Village is small and after you've walked it once, you've pretty much seen it all.
But that's the great part about being a woman, you can never get enough window shopping!
Tuesday while Tony worked, we (me, our son and his girlfriend) headed out for some shopping. She needed shoes for prom and he wanted (another) t-shirt. It was a good lesson for our son. Once he'd found what he wanted, he was done. But he learned what all men need to know ... when shopping with women bring a book! We landed at a shop with a huge selection of shoes and stayed there for well over 45 minutes ... and ended up not buying a thing! :)
We finished our shopping with a stop at the local candy shop because neither kid had ever had a carmeled apple ... how is that possible??? The shop had a wonderful selection of plain and special apples, so we chose one with mini M&Ms on it. They sliced it for us (so much better) and we all shared it. I'm sure we'll be back to this shop before the week is over!
Tuesday night was dinner at Fire & Ice, the restaurant inside the Marriott Timber Lodge. It's a Mongolian-grill styled restaurant with a wide selection of veggies, seafood and meats, as well as pasta, rice and tortillas. The trick to getting your money's worth is to go hungry and not have any salad. Tony and I did our best, but could only get in two trips to the grill ... but the kids got in three, so we definitely did good.
Wednesday was my day to join the kids for skiing. I hadn't been on skis since I hurt my knee here last year so was a little apprehensive ... but skiing is just like riding a bike, you never forget how.
Spring skiing here is very interesting ... you start the day in icy conditions and basically follow the sun around the hill as it warms the snow. By 2:00p it's very slushy and starts getting slow. On what turned out to be my last run my skis got tangled up and I ended up going down ... face first! Today I am sporting a sore face, but am otherwise am just fine.
Last night we got a wonderful dusting of snow, with more predicted for today and tonight. The winds are up so the gondola is closed, but the resort is running shuttle buses to the California base, so the kids are off to the mountain for their last day of snowboardinmg and Tony and I are going to try to get one more day of snowshoeing in before we have to start packing up.
Tomorrow we're out of here and on our way to San Francisco for two days before heading home. I hope it doesn't snow too much as we didn't bring our chains!
That is partially because the Heavenly Village is small and after you've walked it once, you've pretty much seen it all.
But that's the great part about being a woman, you can never get enough window shopping!
Tuesday while Tony worked, we (me, our son and his girlfriend) headed out for some shopping. She needed shoes for prom and he wanted (another) t-shirt. It was a good lesson for our son. Once he'd found what he wanted, he was done. But he learned what all men need to know ... when shopping with women bring a book! We landed at a shop with a huge selection of shoes and stayed there for well over 45 minutes ... and ended up not buying a thing! :)
We finished our shopping with a stop at the local candy shop because neither kid had ever had a carmeled apple ... how is that possible??? The shop had a wonderful selection of plain and special apples, so we chose one with mini M&Ms on it. They sliced it for us (so much better) and we all shared it. I'm sure we'll be back to this shop before the week is over!
Tuesday night was dinner at Fire & Ice, the restaurant inside the Marriott Timber Lodge. It's a Mongolian-grill styled restaurant with a wide selection of veggies, seafood and meats, as well as pasta, rice and tortillas. The trick to getting your money's worth is to go hungry and not have any salad. Tony and I did our best, but could only get in two trips to the grill ... but the kids got in three, so we definitely did good.
Wednesday was my day to join the kids for skiing. I hadn't been on skis since I hurt my knee here last year so was a little apprehensive ... but skiing is just like riding a bike, you never forget how.
Spring skiing here is very interesting ... you start the day in icy conditions and basically follow the sun around the hill as it warms the snow. By 2:00p it's very slushy and starts getting slow. On what turned out to be my last run my skis got tangled up and I ended up going down ... face first! Today I am sporting a sore face, but am otherwise am just fine.
Last night we got a wonderful dusting of snow, with more predicted for today and tonight. The winds are up so the gondola is closed, but the resort is running shuttle buses to the California base, so the kids are off to the mountain for their last day of snowboardinmg and Tony and I are going to try to get one more day of snowshoeing in before we have to start packing up.
Tomorrow we're out of here and on our way to San Francisco for two days before heading home. I hope it doesn't snow too much as we didn't bring our chains!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Lake Tahoe Is On The Rise Again
Last year, when we were here, things in the South Shore area were looking a big bleak. The economy had hit the area hard wth many shops out of business, going out of business or only open a few hours or days to try to cut costs. As well the streets were empty and "depression" was in the air.
We weren't sure what we would find this year, but things have really changed! All the stores are filled and in speaking with the owners sales are up this year. And there are people milling about everywhere. The fire pits outside the resort are crowded with skiers and boarders after the lifts have closed and there is an energy in the air. Could this be a sign of things turning around for our country?
Our group this week consists of Tony, me, our son and his girlfriend. This is a first for us, taking along the girlfriend, but we told him he could bring anybody and she's who he selected. Luckily, our timeshare is a two bedroom "apartment" with a pull-out sofa bed in the living room.
Saturday was our first full day here. It began with "the kids" heading to the mountain to ski while Tony and I spent the day wandering the shops and getting settled. Several of the art galleries were having "Meet the Artist" shows and we enjoyed seeing new art, learning of new artists and even finding a few pieces that caught our eyes.
Sunday the winds were up and the gondola leading to Heavenly Valley was closed down, so "the kids" decided to take the day off and show themselves around South Lake Tahoe Village. Tony and I decided to take a drive up to Emerald Bay and beyond, then return to do some shopping with "the kids." The drive, as usual was beautiful ... and much busier than in past years. There were cars and tourists at all our favorite spots, so we made very few stops. But on the way back we decided to check out a new place I had found, Eagle Point.
Although there is less snow than in the past, the side roads are still closed and covered with snow. Luckily, our snowshoes and boots were still in the Thule box on the car. Special clothing wasn't needed as it was nearly 60-degrees out, so we strapped into our shoes and took off.
We followed the camp road through campsights for about 2 miles. Along the way we saw what could have been cougar tracks, bear tracks, or a dog following along with a snowshoer. Clearly, we have no tracking skills! LOL
At the end, we found a nice sunny spot where we made snow angels and relaxed. Unfortunately, because this outting wasn't planned, we didn't have any food or drink with us. So what typically would have been an hour's rest was only about 20 minutes before we headed back. We never did see the eagle's nests that are said to be at the end of the point, but we did se a lone eagle flying overhead as we hiked it.
One the way in, Tony kept saying ... turn around, we're going downhill! And he was right, the climb out was definitely at climb, but we found a few short-cuts left by previous snowshoers. In all our little outting took us about 3 hours and was the perfect afternoon.
Unfortunately, it meant we missed shopping with "the kids" so we've promised to go with them on Tuesday, which is supposed to be the worst weather day of the week. I have to say we did find it comical ... when we're with "the kids" they seem all they want to do is be away from us. But while we were gone they called no fewer than 10 times to see what we were up to. Unfortunately, we'd left our phones in the car so we left them wondering ... kinda a role-reversal.
We're trying to save money by being on the "every-other-day" meal plan, which means we're eating in every-other-day. Sunday night was our night out and we selected McP's across the street from the resort.
Although generally the food was good, we were a little disappointed that they a) didn't serve steak, b) didn't have a frier (so no french fries) and c) didn't have very good French Onion soup. On the otherhand, when the waiter noticed that we didn't like the soup he offered a free cup of another one ... so that made points with us.
I don't know if it was all the sunshine and fresh air, the elevation, or the fact that it was the first day of Spring, but I didn't sleep well at all last night. I was going to ski with "the kids" today while Tony worked, but as I'd only had 2 hours of sleep I decided it was better to go another day when I wouldn't either get tired or get hurt, or both.
So while he works, I'm catching up on e-mail, writing my blog and doing laundry (how do we have laundry after only 2 days??).
Today is a beautifully sunny day so once he's done working we'll work out and go outside to soak up some sunshine. Tomorrow we're all going to be "in" so I'm looking for things for us to do to fill our time ... while the village here is nice, it's small enough that you can see it all in a day. Maybe I can talk "the kids" into trying snowshoeing too!
We weren't sure what we would find this year, but things have really changed! All the stores are filled and in speaking with the owners sales are up this year. And there are people milling about everywhere. The fire pits outside the resort are crowded with skiers and boarders after the lifts have closed and there is an energy in the air. Could this be a sign of things turning around for our country?
Our group this week consists of Tony, me, our son and his girlfriend. This is a first for us, taking along the girlfriend, but we told him he could bring anybody and she's who he selected. Luckily, our timeshare is a two bedroom "apartment" with a pull-out sofa bed in the living room.
Saturday was our first full day here. It began with "the kids" heading to the mountain to ski while Tony and I spent the day wandering the shops and getting settled. Several of the art galleries were having "Meet the Artist" shows and we enjoyed seeing new art, learning of new artists and even finding a few pieces that caught our eyes.
Sunday the winds were up and the gondola leading to Heavenly Valley was closed down, so "the kids" decided to take the day off and show themselves around South Lake Tahoe Village. Tony and I decided to take a drive up to Emerald Bay and beyond, then return to do some shopping with "the kids." The drive, as usual was beautiful ... and much busier than in past years. There were cars and tourists at all our favorite spots, so we made very few stops. But on the way back we decided to check out a new place I had found, Eagle Point.
Although there is less snow than in the past, the side roads are still closed and covered with snow. Luckily, our snowshoes and boots were still in the Thule box on the car. Special clothing wasn't needed as it was nearly 60-degrees out, so we strapped into our shoes and took off.
We followed the camp road through campsights for about 2 miles. Along the way we saw what could have been cougar tracks, bear tracks, or a dog following along with a snowshoer. Clearly, we have no tracking skills! LOL
At the end, we found a nice sunny spot where we made snow angels and relaxed. Unfortunately, because this outting wasn't planned, we didn't have any food or drink with us. So what typically would have been an hour's rest was only about 20 minutes before we headed back. We never did see the eagle's nests that are said to be at the end of the point, but we did se a lone eagle flying overhead as we hiked it.
One the way in, Tony kept saying ... turn around, we're going downhill! And he was right, the climb out was definitely at climb, but we found a few short-cuts left by previous snowshoers. In all our little outting took us about 3 hours and was the perfect afternoon.
Unfortunately, it meant we missed shopping with "the kids" so we've promised to go with them on Tuesday, which is supposed to be the worst weather day of the week. I have to say we did find it comical ... when we're with "the kids" they seem all they want to do is be away from us. But while we were gone they called no fewer than 10 times to see what we were up to. Unfortunately, we'd left our phones in the car so we left them wondering ... kinda a role-reversal.
We're trying to save money by being on the "every-other-day" meal plan, which means we're eating in every-other-day. Sunday night was our night out and we selected McP's across the street from the resort.
Although generally the food was good, we were a little disappointed that they a) didn't serve steak, b) didn't have a frier (so no french fries) and c) didn't have very good French Onion soup. On the otherhand, when the waiter noticed that we didn't like the soup he offered a free cup of another one ... so that made points with us.
I don't know if it was all the sunshine and fresh air, the elevation, or the fact that it was the first day of Spring, but I didn't sleep well at all last night. I was going to ski with "the kids" today while Tony worked, but as I'd only had 2 hours of sleep I decided it was better to go another day when I wouldn't either get tired or get hurt, or both.
So while he works, I'm catching up on e-mail, writing my blog and doing laundry (how do we have laundry after only 2 days??).
Today is a beautifully sunny day so once he's done working we'll work out and go outside to soak up some sunshine. Tomorrow we're all going to be "in" so I'm looking for things for us to do to fill our time ... while the village here is nice, it's small enough that you can see it all in a day. Maybe I can talk "the kids" into trying snowshoeing too!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
I'm Back and We're Off
Remember how in my last post I said I thought I might be coming down with a cold? Well, I would have been so lucky.
I know that flying on a plane dries your sinuses and that there should be come wonderful moisturizer in plane air that keeps that from happening, but it doesn't. So when we got home I knew I was in a fragile state. Then my lovely grand daughter same to stay for a few hours and when she was dropped off her Mom announced that she was sick. Great!
What I ended up with was a killer head and chest cold that had me knocked down for almost two weeks. I was able to keep up with what little work I have going on, but any time I wasn't working, I was sleeping, coughing or fighting to breath through the bathtub of fluid in my lungs. Finally this week I got into the doctor and found out my lungs are clearing on their own, but I have a sinus infection. So now I'm on antibiotics and an inhaler in the hopes that 100% health us just around the corner.
The worst part of all of this is it means I haven't worked out since before we left for St. Barth's!
Because of the baggage charge on airlines, the past couple of years we've driven to Lake Tahoe for Spring Break, and this year was the same. 10 hrs. from door-to-door with a couple quick stops for gas and snacks. We took a more scenic route than we have in the past and traveled through Ashton's future college town. I'm sure there will be more on that in the future, but for now I'll just say I've seen the town and college ... finally!
We have arrived safely and I'm hoping to make this the re-start of my fitness routine. I know I have to take it slow, but I have to do something ... I am going to be body painted in less than 4 weeks and this body is not ready for that!
I absolutely love Lake Tahoe. This is our 4th Spring Break here after Ashton announced he doesn't like the warm weather of Palm Springs or St. Martin. The great thing about here is that with the exception of only a couple of days, the sun is always out and the snow is always on the ground. You've seen the photos ... it's beautiful!
This year Tony has brought along some snowshoes too and we're going to get out there at least a couple of days. I'm thinking that will be the extent of my aerobic activity, but I brought my Yoga, Stretch and Abs P90X DVDs along for the other days.
On a side note, I just read that P!nk does the P90X workouts. Funny though, she turns off the volume 'cause Tony Horton drives her crazy. I can see that. :)
Tony's going to work in Sacramento a couple of days and I'll ski while he's gone. The last time I skied was here when I hurt my knee. Fingers crossed for a better outcome this year.
Day 1 Spring Brek 2010 -- Kids are snowbording (Ashton's girlfriend is along), and Tony and I are sitting at our computers. I'm going to sign off and do some yoga before starting the day.
I promise I'll update more now that I'm back amongst the living.
I know that flying on a plane dries your sinuses and that there should be come wonderful moisturizer in plane air that keeps that from happening, but it doesn't. So when we got home I knew I was in a fragile state. Then my lovely grand daughter same to stay for a few hours and when she was dropped off her Mom announced that she was sick. Great!
What I ended up with was a killer head and chest cold that had me knocked down for almost two weeks. I was able to keep up with what little work I have going on, but any time I wasn't working, I was sleeping, coughing or fighting to breath through the bathtub of fluid in my lungs. Finally this week I got into the doctor and found out my lungs are clearing on their own, but I have a sinus infection. So now I'm on antibiotics and an inhaler in the hopes that 100% health us just around the corner.
The worst part of all of this is it means I haven't worked out since before we left for St. Barth's!
Because of the baggage charge on airlines, the past couple of years we've driven to Lake Tahoe for Spring Break, and this year was the same. 10 hrs. from door-to-door with a couple quick stops for gas and snacks. We took a more scenic route than we have in the past and traveled through Ashton's future college town. I'm sure there will be more on that in the future, but for now I'll just say I've seen the town and college ... finally!
We have arrived safely and I'm hoping to make this the re-start of my fitness routine. I know I have to take it slow, but I have to do something ... I am going to be body painted in less than 4 weeks and this body is not ready for that!
I absolutely love Lake Tahoe. This is our 4th Spring Break here after Ashton announced he doesn't like the warm weather of Palm Springs or St. Martin. The great thing about here is that with the exception of only a couple of days, the sun is always out and the snow is always on the ground. You've seen the photos ... it's beautiful!
This year Tony has brought along some snowshoes too and we're going to get out there at least a couple of days. I'm thinking that will be the extent of my aerobic activity, but I brought my Yoga, Stretch and Abs P90X DVDs along for the other days.
On a side note, I just read that P!nk does the P90X workouts. Funny though, she turns off the volume 'cause Tony Horton drives her crazy. I can see that. :)
Tony's going to work in Sacramento a couple of days and I'll ski while he's gone. The last time I skied was here when I hurt my knee. Fingers crossed for a better outcome this year.
Day 1 Spring Brek 2010 -- Kids are snowbording (Ashton's girlfriend is along), and Tony and I are sitting at our computers. I'm going to sign off and do some yoga before starting the day.
I promise I'll update more now that I'm back amongst the living.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
St. Barths 2010
Sorry it’s taken me so long to post this. We returned late and I was back at work EARLY the next morning. I’m not sure if it was the jeg-lag or the fact I feel like I’m coming down with a cold, but I’ve had a real difficult time with “re-entry” after this trip. I wrote most of this on our way home, but justgot it finished and ready for posting …
We’re on our long journey home. I am hoping you understand that I didn’t post everyday because we were busy enjoying our time on this wonderful island. That isn’t to say we didn’t have time each day for checking e-mail, but the villa was so open and light that computer screens are really only readable from the small kitchen island; and I preferred to spend as much time as possible enjoying the view and sunshine.
We had a wonderful time on this vacation and will most definitely be returning.
After we picked up our rental Jimny (think Rav4-like) we took off exploring the island. I have to give kudos to Tony for driving as these have to be some of the scariest roads we’re ever traveled. They were windy, steep and often only 1 ½ cars wide … even on the two-way streets. It was crazy to look out my side of the car down the steep cliffs that dropped unprotected from the side of the road. Occasionally I would see a thin (6”-8”) strip of pavement about 10’ long that had been added to make the road slightly wider. Although I’m sure it should have gave me comfort, I definitely got the feeling it had been added because too many cars had gone off the road in that location. And you’d think that with these road conditions, drivers would be cautious, but no. Most drivers drove as if they were on the Grand Prix circuit!
There was one thing that was a pleasant surprise … it doesn’t have to be as expensive as everybody says. Yes, everything is in Euros (and right now the dollar isn’t too strong), but if you were smart about where you ate and what you ordered, fantastic meals (including a bottle of wine) could run $140 - $160 for two. And if you wanted pizza (which is fantastic at both Le Bistro and Andy’s) it could be nearly half that price.
Staying in a villa is definitely the way to go and there are literally 100s available ranging from 1- to 8-bedrooms. Not all are on the beach, or have a pool, but what a villa offers you is the opportunity to eat in for breakfast, make lunches for the beach and eat in a couple of nights.
The nightlife on the island is amazing, but as we found it can be hit-or-miss. Friday night we went the Le Yacht Club and found a fun party that really only got started around 11:00p. Other friends of ours went to another hotspot, Le Ti, and found it to be completely dead. Saturday night we went to Le Ti and it was definitely hopping. Sunday night we returned to Le Yacht Club and it was completely dead. So you have to be prepared to move-on if a night-life is what you’re looking for. It’s worth noting that the reason things get going so late is because the local restaurant staff are the biggest patrons of the nightclubs. So the attendees early are the young rich and the late partiers are the locals. The later is definitely more fun.
I must take a moment to talk about Le Ti. We had heard about it from friends and I couldn’t wait to give it a try. Technically, it’s a restaurant (and although the food is fine, its not the best on the island) but once all the people have eaten, the waiters clear off the tables and the DJ fires up the music. Because it’s a restaurant, the space is filled with tables … so what do people to do? Dance on the tables!! It was so much fun! Unfortunately, because it’s located in a “neighborhood” they have a noise restriction and have to close at 11:30p.
What we learned early on was that one must on the island is Sunday lunch at Nikki Beach. It’s the place to see and be seen (from what we were told). So reservations were made (also a must on the island). It definitely wasn’t our cheapest day, but how can you put a price on fun? Recently people have taken to bringing the Le Ti experience to Nikki Beach and as the crowd loosens up on wine and the DJ’s music starts pumping the dancing begins. Once again we closed the place down (6:00p) and made some fantastic friends along the way.
Someone at the San Juan airport asked me about people being stuffy. It became clear early on that there are two types of people that come to St. Barths. Those that come to be seen, and those that come to enjoy all the island has to offer. The least social people we ran into were Americans (but definitely not all the Americans we met). Oh, I’m sure the people on the yachts had their own level of stuffy, but we didn’t typically hang out with them (as their role was more to be seen sitting on the decks of their yachts while in the harbor). However, we met so many nice Americans and French that who needs to worry about those that don’t know how to have fun? My #1 observance would be the friendliest Americans were those that have been coming for years, and have made local friends. They’re the ones that come to have a good time … not to be seen.
I think Tony and I both were trying to put off the packing as long as possible and trying to think of ways to stay a few more days. If we hadn’t been on so many airlines (and I didn’t have to get back to work) we probably would have tried to stay a few more days.
In the end I was really surprised by St. Barths … on so many levels. My concerns over the cost of things were mostly unnecessary and if the dollar had been stronger against the Euro the prices would have been like anywhere else. As well, I was pleasantly surprised at how much fun could be had … and in such a variety of ways. I think Lance and Libby were concerned that the island would be to quite for us, but the reality is that we love a nice relaxing day on the beach and a nice quite dinner with friends. So St. Barths offered just the right mix of both.
We’re already talking about how we can get back this summer … so I guess you can say it was perfect.
We’re on our long journey home. I am hoping you understand that I didn’t post everyday because we were busy enjoying our time on this wonderful island. That isn’t to say we didn’t have time each day for checking e-mail, but the villa was so open and light that computer screens are really only readable from the small kitchen island; and I preferred to spend as much time as possible enjoying the view and sunshine.
We had a wonderful time on this vacation and will most definitely be returning.
After we picked up our rental Jimny (think Rav4-like) we took off exploring the island. I have to give kudos to Tony for driving as these have to be some of the scariest roads we’re ever traveled. They were windy, steep and often only 1 ½ cars wide … even on the two-way streets. It was crazy to look out my side of the car down the steep cliffs that dropped unprotected from the side of the road. Occasionally I would see a thin (6”-8”) strip of pavement about 10’ long that had been added to make the road slightly wider. Although I’m sure it should have gave me comfort, I definitely got the feeling it had been added because too many cars had gone off the road in that location. And you’d think that with these road conditions, drivers would be cautious, but no. Most drivers drove as if they were on the Grand Prix circuit!
There was one thing that was a pleasant surprise … it doesn’t have to be as expensive as everybody says. Yes, everything is in Euros (and right now the dollar isn’t too strong), but if you were smart about where you ate and what you ordered, fantastic meals (including a bottle of wine) could run $140 - $160 for two. And if you wanted pizza (which is fantastic at both Le Bistro and Andy’s) it could be nearly half that price.
Staying in a villa is definitely the way to go and there are literally 100s available ranging from 1- to 8-bedrooms. Not all are on the beach, or have a pool, but what a villa offers you is the opportunity to eat in for breakfast, make lunches for the beach and eat in a couple of nights.
The nightlife on the island is amazing, but as we found it can be hit-or-miss. Friday night we went the Le Yacht Club and found a fun party that really only got started around 11:00p. Other friends of ours went to another hotspot, Le Ti, and found it to be completely dead. Saturday night we went to Le Ti and it was definitely hopping. Sunday night we returned to Le Yacht Club and it was completely dead. So you have to be prepared to move-on if a night-life is what you’re looking for. It’s worth noting that the reason things get going so late is because the local restaurant staff are the biggest patrons of the nightclubs. So the attendees early are the young rich and the late partiers are the locals. The later is definitely more fun.
I must take a moment to talk about Le Ti. We had heard about it from friends and I couldn’t wait to give it a try. Technically, it’s a restaurant (and although the food is fine, its not the best on the island) but once all the people have eaten, the waiters clear off the tables and the DJ fires up the music. Because it’s a restaurant, the space is filled with tables … so what do people to do? Dance on the tables!! It was so much fun! Unfortunately, because it’s located in a “neighborhood” they have a noise restriction and have to close at 11:30p.
What we learned early on was that one must on the island is Sunday lunch at Nikki Beach. It’s the place to see and be seen (from what we were told). So reservations were made (also a must on the island). It definitely wasn’t our cheapest day, but how can you put a price on fun? Recently people have taken to bringing the Le Ti experience to Nikki Beach and as the crowd loosens up on wine and the DJ’s music starts pumping the dancing begins. Once again we closed the place down (6:00p) and made some fantastic friends along the way.
Someone at the San Juan airport asked me about people being stuffy. It became clear early on that there are two types of people that come to St. Barths. Those that come to be seen, and those that come to enjoy all the island has to offer. The least social people we ran into were Americans (but definitely not all the Americans we met). Oh, I’m sure the people on the yachts had their own level of stuffy, but we didn’t typically hang out with them (as their role was more to be seen sitting on the decks of their yachts while in the harbor). However, we met so many nice Americans and French that who needs to worry about those that don’t know how to have fun? My #1 observance would be the friendliest Americans were those that have been coming for years, and have made local friends. They’re the ones that come to have a good time … not to be seen.
I think Tony and I both were trying to put off the packing as long as possible and trying to think of ways to stay a few more days. If we hadn’t been on so many airlines (and I didn’t have to get back to work) we probably would have tried to stay a few more days.
In the end I was really surprised by St. Barths … on so many levels. My concerns over the cost of things were mostly unnecessary and if the dollar had been stronger against the Euro the prices would have been like anywhere else. As well, I was pleasantly surprised at how much fun could be had … and in such a variety of ways. I think Lance and Libby were concerned that the island would be to quite for us, but the reality is that we love a nice relaxing day on the beach and a nice quite dinner with friends. So St. Barths offered just the right mix of both.
We’re already talking about how we can get back this summer … so I guess you can say it was perfect.
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