In 1978, Rodney Dangerfield burst onto the comedy scene claiming he “got no respect.” That theme earned him millions of laughs, and millions of dollars. The reason is the theme resonated with his audience, many of whom also got no respect. No respect from their employer, family members, or customers. Rodney was their champion, their anti-hero.
How respected are you?
How respectful are you?
How well do you believe you command the respect of others?
Respect is not defined in a dictionary. It’s intangible. It’s a feeling. And it’s an earned position. Contrary to popular belief, bosses do not command respect; they earn respect. And bosses who do not earn the respect of their people, have a high employee turnover rate and wonder why.
Respect is earned by words, and by actions. Things like keeping your promises or proactively providing service. Things like becoming more personally involved with the success of your customer, or taking responsibility when responsibility is not really yours.
It’s the extra effort. It’s the extra mile. It’s the extra measure of sincere effort that you put into your dialogue or your process. Others can sense that you care about them, and will respect that effort. Very few people will actually say, “I respect you.” Rather, they will do things that prove their respect without ever having to say the word. Things like placing an order, placing a second order, or giving you a referral. Even things like taking your phone call, or returning your phone call, show respect.
One of the keys to respect is the word personal. How personal are you in your actions? How personal are you in your communication? The more personal you are with others, the more respect you will earn.
But there is a secret to respect. If you master this secret you will be able to create respectful atmospheres in any environment you encounter. The secret is: In order to earn the respect of others, you must first respect yourself.
This means you have to have confidence in yourself. You have to like what you do. You have to be willing to serve. You have to like yourself. And you have to love yourself. Like and love are two separate issues. You may like yourself for how you look, or how you sell, or how you communicate, but you love yourself for who you are, what you believe in, and what or who you seek to become.
Loving yourself gives you the ultimate opportunity to respect yourself. I’m not saying that you have to be a goody two-shoes, I’m certainly not, and I have a TON of respect for myself. What it means is doing the right things for yourself, taking the right actions for yourself, and loving yourself enough that its evident when you enter a room, evident that your expressions come as much from your heart as they do from your mind, and the same with your actions.
I challenge you to spend one day in retrospect. Take a flip chart and begin to document all the good things that you’ve done for yourself, and all the good things that you’ve done for others. Be real enough with yourself to admit what you like about yourself, and what you love about yourself.
Then document what you need to change about yourself that will make you better and stronger. Maybe your self-respect suffers from the way you see yourself in the mirror, or some of the personal choices that you make. Maybe it’s your environment. But whatever it is, if you don’t acknowledge it, you will never be able to change it or enhance it. You’ll never be able to grow in earning respect from others until you grow in respecting yourself.
One of the most interesting parts of respect is there’s no measuring tool, there’s no “How much do you respect me?” Respect begins with an opportunity, and ends with reality. You can only get it by earning it, and it can only grow slowly over time.
The secret is easy. Do the right thing all the time and respect will be yours. Say the right words, take the right actions, and believe in your heart that you’re doing the best you can do -- for yourself first, and for others second.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Hellacious weekend
This weekend sucked. I spent the entire time auditing payroll files to ensure that deductions came out and to ensure my team was on top of auditing. I also spent hours on Microsoft project plans, looking at the predecessor and duration. Resource calendars...
There is only 1 thing I have to say after this weekend. Check out the Mp3 in my facebook. It is the Queen of the Crime Council.
There is only 1 thing I have to say after this weekend. Check out the Mp3 in my facebook. It is the Queen of the Crime Council.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Back in Cinci
Back in Cinci and it is cold. 53 degrees in August is kind of odd. I am on the 20th floor this week. 2006. I have never been in this room. I have to borrow someone's camera because the room is wild. They did a specific design as a test and then decided they didn't like it. So now it is the only room with a very old antique type look.
I have to update my past few months here in Cinci. It has been very bad for allergies. Back in April, the pollen was so bad that it covered everything in a film of yellow dust.
May was not that much better
Saturday, August 9, 2008
It's been 4 months!
Work has picked up and I just haven't been blogging. Lots of new things going on. I am now on Facebook. Sigh. Didn't think I would ever do it, but Brian convinced me and now I am addicted.
I have also finished my certifications for Search & Recovery and Underwater Navigation for my Master Scuba Diving Certification. I am re-certified for my PMP. I need to seriously buckle down and study my CPP. I also need to start earning CEU for my PHR. That will be up in another 2 years. I have my book for Nitrox certification. I am not sure when Brian and I can take that exam. Lastly, I start school in September for my MBA. I hope I can do it all.
I am still travelling back and forth to Cinci for work. I will be doing so through September and maybe parts of October. By then, I should be on another project.
The only places I have been to in the past few months are OH and IL. Gilboa in Findlay OH is not the place for a fun time. At least it isn't for me. I don't enjoy cold dry suit diving. 49 degrees is too cold for me. I went to Champaign IL a few weeks ago when I went to visit Alice at her new home. I got to see Jane too before she moved to Georgia. She is the only Li sister to move so far away from home and into the Deep South. The rest of us are Northern gals.
I hope to keep this updated a bit more than I have been.
I have also finished my certifications for Search & Recovery and Underwater Navigation for my Master Scuba Diving Certification. I am re-certified for my PMP. I need to seriously buckle down and study my CPP. I also need to start earning CEU for my PHR. That will be up in another 2 years. I have my book for Nitrox certification. I am not sure when Brian and I can take that exam. Lastly, I start school in September for my MBA. I hope I can do it all.
I am still travelling back and forth to Cinci for work. I will be doing so through September and maybe parts of October. By then, I should be on another project.
The only places I have been to in the past few months are OH and IL. Gilboa in Findlay OH is not the place for a fun time. At least it isn't for me. I don't enjoy cold dry suit diving. 49 degrees is too cold for me. I went to Champaign IL a few weeks ago when I went to visit Alice at her new home. I got to see Jane too before she moved to Georgia. She is the only Li sister to move so far away from home and into the Deep South. The rest of us are Northern gals.
I hope to keep this updated a bit more than I have been.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Day Nine - Tulum
B here. So it's the end of day nine and D is semi-passed out at the moment. Too much Thai Lounge for her, and it's good to let her know I can still out drink her. ;)
Today started out getting up at 7:30 and heading to breakfast at Momonohana. The last 8 days it has been extremely windy. There has been a steady 20-30mph wind coming off the ocean every day. This has been a very good thing because it kept you cool when it was 90 degrees and it kept all manner of flying bugs away. This morning, no wind. It was calm and soooo hot. We then got on a bus and and headed for Tulum. Tulum is an ancient Mayan city about 30 min south of where we are. It was "discovered"in the '70s and was an bunch of ruins that was overgrown by the jungle. It's 600 meters by 300 meters and housed about 200 people in it's heyday. It's an important archeological site and has been 50% restored. A couple of cool features are that on april 29 the sun rises at 6:30am and shines thru this little stone table looking thing. And then on the summer soltice, June 21, the sun shines thru a hole in the wall of another building. Fascinating, huh? Oh, and I mentioned no wind. It was dripping sweat hot here. D will post pictures of our trip here when she's sobered up.
The most interesting thing for me about the Mayan is their calendar and knowledge of astronomy. Did you know that the Mayan calendar begins in 3041 BC and is 100% accurate right up until it ends on December 23, 2012? What the heck is going to happen that day? There are a lot of theories (just google that day), one of them being that we will cross over the galactic equator and the north and south poles will reverse. Another is that all 9 planets will be in alignment. Another is that the world will end. Happy thoughts, everyone.
We then headed back towards the hotel and did the obligatory stop at the roadside jyp joint for all your souvenir needs. The looked the freakin bus so we couldn't get back on until the stop was over. Spending no money, we got back on the bus, headed home and got back at 2pm. Swimsuits on, lotion up and out to the pool.
We were in the pool from 2 until 4. It clouded up (the first time since we got here) and actually got chilly. We headed back to the room. D wanted to use the jacuzzi. We did, and apparently when it drained it must have leaked into the room below. Not our problem. Bwahahaha.
Ate dinner at the Argentine steak house. D ate salad and appetizers, I had a ribeye. It's was OK except for one tough part on the top. Cut it all off and I was good to go. Ended the evening with a trip to the Thai Lounge again. I did the tour of Mexico Tequila shot tasting cycle. No Cuervo, thank you very much. 1800 - ick. Sauza, pretty good. Don Julio respisado - good. Don Julio blanco - The WINNER!
My total for the day:
1 Corona - $2 in Tulum. Made my gut burn.
4 Mohitos
4 Tequila shots
1 Tornado
D:
1 Tornado
1 Boom Boom Tequila shot
2 Shitty Cough medicine shots
1 Mohito
1 Peach Liquor/ Cranberry juice drink
1/2 Jack and Pepsi
Tomorrow is a stress free relaxing day for me. D wants to get up and do yoga at 8, work out at 9, do the sauna at 10. Wake me up when you're back.
Today started out getting up at 7:30 and heading to breakfast at Momonohana. The last 8 days it has been extremely windy. There has been a steady 20-30mph wind coming off the ocean every day. This has been a very good thing because it kept you cool when it was 90 degrees and it kept all manner of flying bugs away. This morning, no wind. It was calm and soooo hot. We then got on a bus and and headed for Tulum. Tulum is an ancient Mayan city about 30 min south of where we are. It was "discovered"in the '70s and was an bunch of ruins that was overgrown by the jungle. It's 600 meters by 300 meters and housed about 200 people in it's heyday. It's an important archeological site and has been 50% restored. A couple of cool features are that on april 29 the sun rises at 6:30am and shines thru this little stone table looking thing. And then on the summer soltice, June 21, the sun shines thru a hole in the wall of another building. Fascinating, huh? Oh, and I mentioned no wind. It was dripping sweat hot here. D will post pictures of our trip here when she's sobered up.
The most interesting thing for me about the Mayan is their calendar and knowledge of astronomy. Did you know that the Mayan calendar begins in 3041 BC and is 100% accurate right up until it ends on December 23, 2012? What the heck is going to happen that day? There are a lot of theories (just google that day), one of them being that we will cross over the galactic equator and the north and south poles will reverse. Another is that all 9 planets will be in alignment. Another is that the world will end. Happy thoughts, everyone.
We then headed back towards the hotel and did the obligatory stop at the roadside jyp joint for all your souvenir needs. The looked the freakin bus so we couldn't get back on until the stop was over. Spending no money, we got back on the bus, headed home and got back at 2pm. Swimsuits on, lotion up and out to the pool.
We were in the pool from 2 until 4. It clouded up (the first time since we got here) and actually got chilly. We headed back to the room. D wanted to use the jacuzzi. We did, and apparently when it drained it must have leaked into the room below. Not our problem. Bwahahaha.
Ate dinner at the Argentine steak house. D ate salad and appetizers, I had a ribeye. It's was OK except for one tough part on the top. Cut it all off and I was good to go. Ended the evening with a trip to the Thai Lounge again. I did the tour of Mexico Tequila shot tasting cycle. No Cuervo, thank you very much. 1800 - ick. Sauza, pretty good. Don Julio respisado - good. Don Julio blanco - The WINNER!
My total for the day:
1 Corona - $2 in Tulum. Made my gut burn.
4 Mohitos
4 Tequila shots
1 Tornado
D:
1 Tornado
1 Boom Boom Tequila shot
2 Shitty Cough medicine shots
1 Mohito
1 Peach Liquor/ Cranberry juice drink
1/2 Jack and Pepsi
Tomorrow is a stress free relaxing day for me. D wants to get up and do yoga at 8, work out at 9, do the sauna at 10. Wake me up when you're back.
Mexico Day Six, Seven and Eight
Six through Eight went by in a blur. Day Six, Thursday, I tried hard to make it to the cross current class and Salsa. Okay, I lied, I didn't try at all. Thursday was a quick sun bathing by the pool in the morning followed by a nice steam room in the free spa. I then took a 3 hours siesta. Boy was I tired. I don't know what happened. Poor B had to entertain himself. For dinner, we went to the Oriental Place - Momonohana. Right. . . what does that mean in Japanese? I read the Japanese/Chinese characters and it said Jumping Flower. The sushi was okay. We didn't order from the entree section at all. We ordered all sashimi. There was only tuna and salmon. The eel was missing the BBQ sauce. I asked for masago. He insisted that it was salmon roe. I insisted that masago was flying fish roe. Regardless, I ordered items that were not on the menu. Poor bugger. I told him it was bad to have an Asian in an Asian restaurant.
We didn't have much to drink. I had a scuba diving on Friday so I had to cut back on drinking. I had 1 drink that was close to Port. Brian had 1 beer and 4 Mojitos.
Brian Total: 5. Cumulative 30
1 Beer
4 Mojitos
Dorothy Total 1. Cumulative 18
1 Port (moonshine)
Day Seven:
We wake up early for the "early diving" trip. I get to Momonohana for breakfast. I know it will be a long day diving at Cozumel even though I am assured we will be back by 1:30 PM. Whatever. I pack my salmon crossiants and some bread w/ cheese and meats. I also bag some green grapes and a pear. I know better than to go diving w/o food inbetween dives. At 8:15 am we are off to Playa del Carmen to meet at Senior Frog's for Aqua World. We are supposed to meet the guide at 9:30 AM. We get there at 8:35. We waste time for a while. I am not thrilled, but I am going with the flow. B would be proud. At 10 AM we finally get on the bloody ferry to get to Cozumel. From there we have to take another boat to where Aqua World has its shop. We don't get to the dive site until after noon! BLOODY HELL. What kind of a freaking morning dive is this? The dive master gives us the intro about the dive site. "Buenos Dias!" I yell back, "Buenos Tartas!" He looks at his watch and I answer, "Yup, it's after noon. Vamos!!!" (Getting a project manager off the schedule is a bad thing, especially a drill sergent like myself.)
We finally get into the bloody water. The Wall dive wasn't bad. Saw a turtle and a HUGE eel that was purple and green. Never seen one like that before. The second dive was pretty shallow. The dive master made a mistake. He said we are to come up at 700 PSI or 40 minutes. He should have said 700 PSI or 40 minutes, which ever comes FIRST. The current dive was pretty strong. I was pushed almost into a nurse shark. We saw a HUGE lobster that had to be about 10 lbs. I also saw a Ray and some baby spotted drum. The green eel that was pointed out was also quite amazing. The dive master tried to get me out of the water at 40 minutes. I was having nothing to do with that. He said 700 PSI. I was still at 2000 PSI when he said to go up. He finally got pissed and made me get out of the water at 1400 PSI. I still had 700 to go! That would have lasted me at least another 25 minutes in the 40 ft shallow water.
All in all, it was fun going diving which Chuck and Kerri. Diving with an ex-Navy seal is fun. Especially when he tells me he was born in '58 and I exclaim, "You are as old as my Dad!" (Which is totally untrue. My dad is younger. Just kidding. . .)
Back to the hotel, it is freaking 6 PM. I am not thrilled. I get to the room and B is waiting. I shower and tell him about the trip. We are then off to el Greco, the Mediterranean restaurant. I loved it. B didn't like it. He had a steak that was medium rare but was like a shoe sole. I had a great oyster mushroom appetizer. I loved it so much that I asked for a second one. The duck was fabulous! Loved it. Dessert was disappointing cuz I thought I was going to get coffee ice cream. I got coconut instead. Yuck.
Went to see Jose at the Thai Lounge. There was a very puffed up guy we dubbed "Lex Luther". What an arrogant prick. I had 2 moonshine specials and B had 4 Mojitos.
Brian Total 10 Cumulative 40
5 Margaratas
5 Mojitos
Dorothy total 2 Cumulative 20
Day 8 - Hump day. Only 6 more days left! :(
We spent the day at the pool. Finally we can tolerate sun again. Well, at least B can. I am burnt and peeling. I look like a molting lizard. Quite gross. I end up going to the free spa again. Since no one was there, I went sans clothing. I didn't know that you had to go avec clothing. Oh well. I happily enjoyed the steam room, ice shower and the sauna. I intend to go back tomorrow.
The afternoon was fun w/ Karen, Kerri and Rhonda. Rhonda was quite into the cups. We had fun joking about Chuck. B turned more brown. I shedded more. Dinner was at the Italian place. The food was okay. The service was amazing. Our server was the best. He noticed I didn't like my entree and immediately asked what I liked. He brought me stuff that was not on the menu. Geez. I am so demanding. Poor bugger. We tipped him well.
We went to the Thai lounge again. Saw our good buddies Bob and Gypsy. They are a HOOT from South Carolina. Love them. We went to the Andromeda to watch Chuck sing. He did the Beatles song, "Hey Jude". He was pretty good. We were hoping to get him in a dress and watch him sing "It's raining men." The dance club was not fun for us. The music was okay. The Karaoke was bad. I got into an argument with a guy from NY. Go figure. He kept talking about me loud enough so I went to him and was right into his face. I was ready to beat the shit out of him. He wanted to argue w/ B but backed off and apologized. Still, I was roaring to go. I wanted to knee him then give him an upper cut to the face and then knee him again and then slam my elbow right into the back of his neck and then give him a good left and right hook. B held me back. Bummer. I really wanted to hurt the little mo-fo. I really wanted to stamp down and crush his you know what underneath my foot. Never piss off a 150 lb Chinese woman. She'll hurt you!
We back to the Thai lounge and finished off the evening w/ Jose the best bartender.
Brian Total 16 Cumulative 56
9 Margaratas
5 Mojitos
1 shot of Frangelica
1 shot of something nasty
Dorothy Total 8 Cummulative 28
1 Strawberry Daquiri
5 Mojitos
1 shot of Frangelica
1 shot of something nasty
Tomorrow - TULUM!
We didn't have much to drink. I had a scuba diving on Friday so I had to cut back on drinking. I had 1 drink that was close to Port. Brian had 1 beer and 4 Mojitos.
Brian Total: 5. Cumulative 30
1 Beer
4 Mojitos
Dorothy Total 1. Cumulative 18
1 Port (moonshine)
Day Seven:
We wake up early for the "early diving" trip. I get to Momonohana for breakfast. I know it will be a long day diving at Cozumel even though I am assured we will be back by 1:30 PM. Whatever. I pack my salmon crossiants and some bread w/ cheese and meats. I also bag some green grapes and a pear. I know better than to go diving w/o food inbetween dives. At 8:15 am we are off to Playa del Carmen to meet at Senior Frog's for Aqua World. We are supposed to meet the guide at 9:30 AM. We get there at 8:35. We waste time for a while. I am not thrilled, but I am going with the flow. B would be proud. At 10 AM we finally get on the bloody ferry to get to Cozumel. From there we have to take another boat to where Aqua World has its shop. We don't get to the dive site until after noon! BLOODY HELL. What kind of a freaking morning dive is this? The dive master gives us the intro about the dive site. "Buenos Dias!" I yell back, "Buenos Tartas!" He looks at his watch and I answer, "Yup, it's after noon. Vamos!!!" (Getting a project manager off the schedule is a bad thing, especially a drill sergent like myself.)
We finally get into the bloody water. The Wall dive wasn't bad. Saw a turtle and a HUGE eel that was purple and green. Never seen one like that before. The second dive was pretty shallow. The dive master made a mistake. He said we are to come up at 700 PSI or 40 minutes. He should have said 700 PSI or 40 minutes, which ever comes FIRST. The current dive was pretty strong. I was pushed almost into a nurse shark. We saw a HUGE lobster that had to be about 10 lbs. I also saw a Ray and some baby spotted drum. The green eel that was pointed out was also quite amazing. The dive master tried to get me out of the water at 40 minutes. I was having nothing to do with that. He said 700 PSI. I was still at 2000 PSI when he said to go up. He finally got pissed and made me get out of the water at 1400 PSI. I still had 700 to go! That would have lasted me at least another 25 minutes in the 40 ft shallow water.
All in all, it was fun going diving which Chuck and Kerri. Diving with an ex-Navy seal is fun. Especially when he tells me he was born in '58 and I exclaim, "You are as old as my Dad!" (Which is totally untrue. My dad is younger. Just kidding. . .)
Back to the hotel, it is freaking 6 PM. I am not thrilled. I get to the room and B is waiting. I shower and tell him about the trip. We are then off to el Greco, the Mediterranean restaurant. I loved it. B didn't like it. He had a steak that was medium rare but was like a shoe sole. I had a great oyster mushroom appetizer. I loved it so much that I asked for a second one. The duck was fabulous! Loved it. Dessert was disappointing cuz I thought I was going to get coffee ice cream. I got coconut instead. Yuck.
Went to see Jose at the Thai Lounge. There was a very puffed up guy we dubbed "Lex Luther". What an arrogant prick. I had 2 moonshine specials and B had 4 Mojitos.
Brian Total 10 Cumulative 40
5 Margaratas
5 Mojitos
Dorothy total 2 Cumulative 20
Day 8 - Hump day. Only 6 more days left! :(
We spent the day at the pool. Finally we can tolerate sun again. Well, at least B can. I am burnt and peeling. I look like a molting lizard. Quite gross. I end up going to the free spa again. Since no one was there, I went sans clothing. I didn't know that you had to go avec clothing. Oh well. I happily enjoyed the steam room, ice shower and the sauna. I intend to go back tomorrow.
The afternoon was fun w/ Karen, Kerri and Rhonda. Rhonda was quite into the cups. We had fun joking about Chuck. B turned more brown. I shedded more. Dinner was at the Italian place. The food was okay. The service was amazing. Our server was the best. He noticed I didn't like my entree and immediately asked what I liked. He brought me stuff that was not on the menu. Geez. I am so demanding. Poor bugger. We tipped him well.
We went to the Thai lounge again. Saw our good buddies Bob and Gypsy. They are a HOOT from South Carolina. Love them. We went to the Andromeda to watch Chuck sing. He did the Beatles song, "Hey Jude". He was pretty good. We were hoping to get him in a dress and watch him sing "It's raining men." The dance club was not fun for us. The music was okay. The Karaoke was bad. I got into an argument with a guy from NY. Go figure. He kept talking about me loud enough so I went to him and was right into his face. I was ready to beat the shit out of him. He wanted to argue w/ B but backed off and apologized. Still, I was roaring to go. I wanted to knee him then give him an upper cut to the face and then knee him again and then slam my elbow right into the back of his neck and then give him a good left and right hook. B held me back. Bummer. I really wanted to hurt the little mo-fo. I really wanted to stamp down and crush his you know what underneath my foot. Never piss off a 150 lb Chinese woman. She'll hurt you!
We back to the Thai lounge and finished off the evening w/ Jose the best bartender.
Brian Total 16 Cumulative 56
9 Margaratas
5 Mojitos
1 shot of Frangelica
1 shot of something nasty
Dorothy Total 8 Cummulative 28
1 Strawberry Daquiri
5 Mojitos
1 shot of Frangelica
1 shot of something nasty
Tomorrow - TULUM!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Mexico Night Five
Wednesday night is the Fire Show. I figured that it wouldn't be too much since it is just a resort with some very corny shows so far. So we went late. BIG mistake. Next week, we go early and sit up front! There was one woman there that was CALIENTA! Holy cow was she hot. Her outfit showed off her amazing abs. She wore a back mask over her lower part of the face. The guys were all very hot. They had amazing bodies and boy were they good with fire. The other female did a ring of fire as a hoola hoop! WTF! I was completely amazed. I got a few pictures that were okay. Take a look.
Mexico Day Five
We went on the 90 minute not "time share" tour. We put our timer on and let them know that I had only 90 minutes because I did have something scheduled at 10 AM which was true. So at 8:25 AM we showed up at the designated spot and off we went. 
Our guide was Raul. He was a very lovely gentleman in a suit who was so very sweet. He was very personable and if I had the money, I would have done it. The deal was 2 free weeks, 2 weeks at $1750 and 2 free airline tixs. This would also include a spa voucher for $500. We would have to purchase 50 weeks as a member for $6000. It really wasn't bad at all. We just couldn't afford it at this time. Especially since we have our vacations planned out for the next 3 years. Brian hates being locked into something. And I hate not getting a good deal. I explained that I was the stingy one who has issues spending money. I felt we spent a lot coming here but it was the most we could afford since we are short on funds.
Our guide was Raul. He was a very lovely gentleman in a suit who was so very sweet. He was very personable and if I had the money, I would have done it. The deal was 2 free weeks, 2 weeks at $1750 and 2 free airline tixs. This would also include a spa voucher for $500. We would have to purchase 50 weeks as a member for $6000. It really wasn't bad at all. We just couldn't afford it at this time. Especially since we have our vacations planned out for the next 3 years. Brian hates being locked into something. And I hate not getting a good deal. I explained that I was the stingy one who has issues spending money. I felt we spent a lot coming here but it was the most we could afford since we are short on funds.Raul was very surprised at our price. We spent $4600 for the all 
inclusive 2 weeks. This included all the food and drinks and unlimited tours. Our plane tixs were only $300 each since we booked in July of 07. Our rate was actually better than what some of the members could get. I read the fine print for the free massage that members receive. It is only a 25 minute massage. With knots like mine, 25 minutes is nothing. I need at least 90 minutes. Generally at home, I go for 120 minutes, semi-monthly.
inclusive 2 weeks. This included all the food and drinks and unlimited tours. Our plane tixs were only $300 each since we booked in July of 07. Our rate was actually better than what some of the members could get. I read the fine print for the free massage that members receive. It is only a 25 minute massage. With knots like mine, 25 minutes is nothing. I need at least 90 minutes. Generally at home, I go for 120 minutes, semi-monthly.True to Raul's word, we were in and out in 1 hour and 19 minutes. They knew we wouldn't purchase. They were still very gracious and nice. We received the abbreviated tour since we had been on the premises for a while. Here are some of the pictures.
We once again spent the day indoors to allow for healing. I worked out on the tread mill for 35 minutes. Then I stretched and did some biceps/triceps/back and lats. I completed by 11 AM which was when the fitball class started. I figured it would be kind of easy like the Yoga class from yesterday. NO it was NOT. I thought 1/2 way through the class that it was a big mistake. I barely got through the class. This is now two days in a row I have exercised for 2 hours or more. Yesterday, I swam about 1.5 miles for a bit over an hour. Then I went to Yoga.
Tomorrow, I hope to make it to the salsa cardio class and the cross current training. Salsa is at noon to 1. Water workout is 2 to 3. If I go to Yoga again, it is from 4-5. We'll see how much I can do in one day. Plus it will be our first day back into the water.
Brian Drink total: 3 Cumulative: 25
3 Margaritas
Dorothy Drink total: 0 Cumulative: 17
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Mexico Day Three and Four
Day three was a wash. Looks like Day four will be a wash too. We got BURNED!? What Asian gets burned in the sun? Bloody hell it hurts. I don't like being burned. I haven't ever been burned like this before. I even used the 50 SPF. I applied it a couple times in a day. Apparently the sun is much stronger here in April than in November. I look like a freaking lobster. And of course, I have NO aloe Vera. I am pretty irritated. Poor Brian's feet got burned and they swelled up. WTF?
Well, it's to the indoor pool and total cover up. Since I haven't been really burned before, I had to look up the ways to fix it on the web. Thank god for the computer and the Internet. We are badly burned enough that it is difficult to move around. We had to cancel our trip to Ex-Balam and Valloid. Very annoying. I have to reschedule for next week. Thank goodness we have a 2 week vacation.
Couldn't even get out of bed this morning. Yesterday was worst. We did soak in the tub w/ the jets since the web said water absorption through baths would help. I have been drinking water a lot and avoiding alcohol until I get rid of this freaking pink skin. I look horrible in pink.
Dinner last night was okay. We went to La Hacienda. The lamb I ordered tasted like beef brisket. I didn't like it so much. Brian enjoyed his meal. Apparently, the guacamole that came with the fresh chips was very tasty. Tasted a bit greasy and gross to me. He said it was soooo yummy and fresh. I just nodded and tried not to gag. Guess I still don't like avocados.
We stopped in the Thai Lounge where there are beds. Yup, there are beds for people to lay in. I'll have pictures uploaded later on it. We did lay in one to have pictures taken. I just remember the last time I went to a club which had beds in it. When I wanted to lay in one for a picture, my friends jerked me back up and asked, "Do you really want to lay in that? You do know we are here during gay night, right? And with black sheets, you can't really tell if it is clean or not. You don't know if that damp spot is from a spilled drink or not." From that point on, I have been pretty leery of sitting in beds in a club.
Anyhow, not much drinking went on for Day 3.
Brian Total 3 Cumulative 21
1 Beer
2 Moijito
Dorothy total 2 Cumulative 12
1 Chocolate Martini
1 Moijito
Drinking for Day 4.
Brian Total 1 Cumulative 22
1 Beer
Dorothy total 5 Cumulative 17
4 Tres Coronas (some kind of moonshine port)
1 FooFoo red drink with lots of vodka
Well, it's to the indoor pool and total cover up. Since I haven't been really burned before, I had to look up the ways to fix it on the web. Thank god for the computer and the Internet. We are badly burned enough that it is difficult to move around. We had to cancel our trip to Ex-Balam and Valloid. Very annoying. I have to reschedule for next week. Thank goodness we have a 2 week vacation.
Couldn't even get out of bed this morning. Yesterday was worst. We did soak in the tub w/ the jets since the web said water absorption through baths would help. I have been drinking water a lot and avoiding alcohol until I get rid of this freaking pink skin. I look horrible in pink.
Dinner last night was okay. We went to La Hacienda. The lamb I ordered tasted like beef brisket. I didn't like it so much. Brian enjoyed his meal. Apparently, the guacamole that came with the fresh chips was very tasty. Tasted a bit greasy and gross to me. He said it was soooo yummy and fresh. I just nodded and tried not to gag. Guess I still don't like avocados.
We stopped in the Thai Lounge where there are beds. Yup, there are beds for people to lay in. I'll have pictures uploaded later on it. We did lay in one to have pictures taken. I just remember the last time I went to a club which had beds in it. When I wanted to lay in one for a picture, my friends jerked me back up and asked, "Do you really want to lay in that? You do know we are here during gay night, right? And with black sheets, you can't really tell if it is clean or not. You don't know if that damp spot is from a spilled drink or not." From that point on, I have been pretty leery of sitting in beds in a club.
Anyhow, not much drinking went on for Day 3.
Brian Total 3 Cumulative 21
1 Beer
2 Moijito
Dorothy total 2 Cumulative 12
1 Chocolate Martini
1 Moijito
Drinking for Day 4.
Brian Total 1 Cumulative 22
1 Beer
Dorothy total 5 Cumulative 17
4 Tres Coronas (some kind of moonshine port)
1 FooFoo red drink with lots of vodka
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Mexico Day two
Woke up this morning feeling like I slept the entire morning way. It was only 8:30 AM. We were out by the pool by 8:45. We decided to go to the South end and work our way up. We never made it up to the North. We found a great location where we could be in the water on a lounge chair. We staked out the place with our towels, shoes and magazines. I was extremely territorial. No one was going to get my spot! There were many open places. We are not sure why they say that there is no where to sit. It was dead until about 10 AM when more people showed up. (The pool bar opened.)
We met a huge gaggle of women from Iowa. They were all 50 and celebrating their birthdays together. They were wild and fun women. The stories they told of their time a the bars in Playa del Carmen were great. One woman received a lap dance from 2 boys at the same time. They were in their early 20s and they felt this 50 year old up and stuck their faces and body all over her. She was excited to tell us that they felt her boobs and stuck their face and you know what right in her crotch. Yes, apparently you can get drunk before noon.
The two that we spent quite a bit of time talking to were Chuck and Karen. Chuck is a Sicilian/Italian guy living in Wisconsin. He is originally from Chicago. Karen is Irish German. Chuck is the cook at his restaurant. Karen is the bartender. They are a hoot! Chuck is ex-navy seal. Yummy. I knew I should have brought my dive log and my dive computer, just in case! Darnit! At least I have my dive card. He has convinced me to go diving with him and his buddy Kerri this week @ Cozumel. Brian will stay with Karen and Carey's gf Rhonda at the hotel. I can hardly wait. It will probably be expensive since my regulator is at home too. ARRGH! I kept looking at them and thinking, hmm, should I? I guess I should have.
We finally left the pool @ 5 PM. I totally forgot to take the first day picture of before the sun. Now it is a bit too late. I am still going to take a picture, but it isn't the same. I discovered that early in the morning, the iguana are all out and about. They let you get really close too. I will be taking pictures tomorrow.
The birds are nasty and crazy here. The seagulls and these loud screaming black birds will fight you over your food. MINE! MINE! MINE! They steal food off your plate and dive bomb you. While there were lots of activities at the pool - volleyball, games, singing and trivia, Brian and I ignored them all in favour of relaxing by the pool. It was very soothing. Brian is completely relaxed now. I am slowly unwinding. I am still wound pretty tight. I try to relax with my magazines. I brought 12 lbs of magazines ~ 24 of them . I am determined to get through every one of them. I will save 2 for the plane ride home. Which leaves me with 22 of them. I read 1 on the plane and got rid of it. That leaves me with 21. If I average about 2 magazines a day, I will finish them all off. I already read 2 today ~ 19 left. I read the Sept 2007 PMI and the February 2008 HR. I hope to be caught up with all my PMI and SHRM ones by the time I leave.
For dining, we did not eat breakfast. We slipped into Mundaco for coffee and juice. Lunch was cheese burgers and nachos. Nothing that good. We drank a bit. I was easier on the alcohol. Brian pounded them. They have Don Guillo Tequila? I don't know how to spell it. Brian had Margaritas all day.
Brian Drinks Total 11 Cumulative 18
11 Margaritas
Dorothy Drinks Total 7 Cumulative 10
4 Strawberry Daiquiris
2 Khaluha and Franagelica
1 Mocha ice with Franangelica
We met a huge gaggle of women from Iowa. They were all 50 and celebrating their birthdays together. They were wild and fun women. The stories they told of their time a the bars in Playa del Carmen were great. One woman received a lap dance from 2 boys at the same time. They were in their early 20s and they felt this 50 year old up and stuck their faces and body all over her. She was excited to tell us that they felt her boobs and stuck their face and you know what right in her crotch. Yes, apparently you can get drunk before noon.
The two that we spent quite a bit of time talking to were Chuck and Karen. Chuck is a Sicilian/Italian guy living in Wisconsin. He is originally from Chicago. Karen is Irish German. Chuck is the cook at his restaurant. Karen is the bartender. They are a hoot! Chuck is ex-navy seal. Yummy. I knew I should have brought my dive log and my dive computer, just in case! Darnit! At least I have my dive card. He has convinced me to go diving with him and his buddy Kerri this week @ Cozumel. Brian will stay with Karen and Carey's gf Rhonda at the hotel. I can hardly wait. It will probably be expensive since my regulator is at home too. ARRGH! I kept looking at them and thinking, hmm, should I? I guess I should have.
We finally left the pool @ 5 PM. I totally forgot to take the first day picture of before the sun. Now it is a bit too late. I am still going to take a picture, but it isn't the same. I discovered that early in the morning, the iguana are all out and about. They let you get really close too. I will be taking pictures tomorrow.
The birds are nasty and crazy here. The seagulls and these loud screaming black birds will fight you over your food. MINE! MINE! MINE! They steal food off your plate and dive bomb you. While there were lots of activities at the pool - volleyball, games, singing and trivia, Brian and I ignored them all in favour of relaxing by the pool. It was very soothing. Brian is completely relaxed now. I am slowly unwinding. I am still wound pretty tight. I try to relax with my magazines. I brought 12 lbs of magazines ~ 24 of them . I am determined to get through every one of them. I will save 2 for the plane ride home. Which leaves me with 22 of them. I read 1 on the plane and got rid of it. That leaves me with 21. If I average about 2 magazines a day, I will finish them all off. I already read 2 today ~ 19 left. I read the Sept 2007 PMI and the February 2008 HR. I hope to be caught up with all my PMI and SHRM ones by the time I leave.
For dining, we did not eat breakfast. We slipped into Mundaco for coffee and juice. Lunch was cheese burgers and nachos. Nothing that good. We drank a bit. I was easier on the alcohol. Brian pounded them. They have Don Guillo Tequila? I don't know how to spell it. Brian had Margaritas all day.
Brian Drinks Total 11 Cumulative 18
11 Margaritas
Dorothy Drinks Total 7 Cumulative 10
4 Strawberry Daiquiris
2 Khaluha and Franagelica
1 Mocha ice with Franangelica
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Day One in Mexico
We arrived safe and sound. We started off the day very well. The limo picked us up ahead of schedule. We went through security w/o a hitch. Getting on the plane from DTW to Cleveland was easy. We pushed from the gate early! We get to the runway - bad news - Cleveland airport had shut down. No incoming or outgoing traffic. This was due to fog. The pilot said he would give us an update in 1 hour! We would miss our connection. I start to get irritated. Brian prayed that I didn't lose my temper. If only Continental didn't change our 6 AM flight to a 7 AM flight, giving us a 45 minute layover instead of a 1 hours and 45 minute layover. Fortunately, the entire plane is trying to get to the Cancun flight.
We land into Cleveland at 8:35. I think, drat, even if the connecting plane is delayed and we can get there in time, what about our luggage? I have Brian take off and run towards the gate. I had a gate side check in so I plodded along behind him. We get there at 9 AM. The plane's door is still open and we make it onto the plane. The others trying to get to Cancun on our flight have also made it and they see their luggage. Brian is relieved and believes are luggage is fine too.
We depart when people finally understand that they have to be seated before the flight can take off. Bloody inexperienced travellers. The flight attendants were so patient and nice. "Ma'am, ma'am, please take your seat so we can leave. Sir, please sit down and buckle up. Yes Sir, you do need to have your seat belt fastened." I wanted to say, "Get your ass in the chair and buckle up now." The plane ride was long and uneventful. We took the long way to avoid bad weather. The pilot kept saying there was turbulence. It was nothing. Some people were still freaked out by little movements. Wimps.
Going through customs was super fast. There was NO wait and the guy checking our passports was Speedy Gonzalez. We were through in less than 1 minute. Picking up our luggage was easy too. The only part that slowed us down was Brian pushing the button and it turned Red. He then had to have his bags searched.
We went by all the time share folks and found our ride to the hotel. Franco the driver was loco. There were 3 other couples on the van with us. They were dropped off first to Rio Tequila ~ Playa del Carmen. We arrived at Aventura Spa Palace around 2:30 PM Mexico time. They haven't gone through Daylight savings yet so they were 2 hours behind EDT.
Check in was easy and we got the room Brian wanted. We are in the middle, on the second floor. The room has a great ocean side view. We also have the hammock he wants. The place is newly remodeled with the electronic safe and a flat screen TV. The shower is amazing. The fridge was fully stocked and the best part was the alcohol dispenser.
Our tally for Drinks so far today:
Brian - Total 7
1 DosXX
4 Miami Vices (Pina Colada and Strawberry Daiquiri)
1 Rum and Coke
1 Margarita
Dorothy - Total 3
1 Mojito
1 Strawberry daiquiri
1 Screwdriver (Terrible, wanted a Fuzzy Navel and got it confused)
We spent the afternoon and evening exploring the property. took forever, but I finally found the 25 meter pool. It was disappointing. It was no lap pool. The Yoga hut was pretty nifty. The obstacle course was a joke. The lagoon was very nice. I was amazed at how nice the water was and how many little fish were swimming around.
We had lunch and dinner at the same place. I will have to write more about it later in a dining post. We wanted to make it to the Thai lounge ~ martini bar. Too bad I was tired. I wanted to use the jacuzzi tub, but ended up crashing.
So far, the Resort has lived up to its hype. Tomorrow, it's pool exploration.
Friday, April 4, 2008
And we are off to Mexico!
Hello good people stuck in dreary Midwestern weather. For those who are in the Southern states, bllppttt. It was cold in Michigan today. I had hoped to have a relaxing day getting my last items packed, my personal financials in order, clean the house, cross check my packing inventory spreadsheet and then go to bed. Unfortunately, the day did not pan out that way. Lots of hot issues on the day that I am not supposed to be working. Fortunately, most of them were sent off to the appropriate parties or they were resolved by me. Lost 6 hours of my day.
Good news, 1 more sleep until Mexico! I am so excited. I could say that I was so excited that I couldn't sleep but that would be a lie. I can't wait to get all my to do list done so that I can sleep. I am so tired. Then off we go tomorrow morning. The cab better not be late, or they are going to have a bad day too.
I am nervous about the 45 minute layover in Cleveland. Darn airlines switching our times and flights so that we have a connection that is barely feasible. I checked with Dee F. and Jose who both indicated that the 45 minutes would be fine for my luggage. For me . . it would be another story. I am praying for a good and smooth ride.
The best news of the day was my acceptance email from University of Michigan. I will be starting my MBA this fall. We'll see how long it takes. The next updates will either be an angry rant from the airport or a happy gleeful one in Mexico. Let's all hope for the latter situation. As anyone who knows me . . . angry me is a very difficult me to be around.
Good news, 1 more sleep until Mexico! I am so excited. I could say that I was so excited that I couldn't sleep but that would be a lie. I can't wait to get all my to do list done so that I can sleep. I am so tired. Then off we go tomorrow morning. The cab better not be late, or they are going to have a bad day too.
I am nervous about the 45 minute layover in Cleveland. Darn airlines switching our times and flights so that we have a connection that is barely feasible. I checked with Dee F. and Jose who both indicated that the 45 minutes would be fine for my luggage. For me . . it would be another story. I am praying for a good and smooth ride.
The best news of the day was my acceptance email from University of Michigan. I will be starting my MBA this fall. We'll see how long it takes. The next updates will either be an angry rant from the airport or a happy gleeful one in Mexico. Let's all hope for the latter situation. As anyone who knows me . . . angry me is a very difficult me to be around.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Golden Lamb
Went to the Golden Lamb in Lebanon KY. For some reason I thought I was still in OH. The food was more meat and potatoes. Not my style. I had the leg of lamb which did not come as a leg of lamb. It came as slices of lamb meat. It was kind of odd. It wasn't bad. I would rate it a 3 out of 5 stars. The salad I chose based upon my lunch partner's suggestion was quite good. It was a cottage cheese salad with a ring o pineapple topped with a celery seed dressing. I was surprised how tasty it was.
The restaurant was also a bed and breakfast. They were very proud that 12 US presidents have stayed there. They have presidential rooms roped off and on display. I didn't look at all the rooms. What I saw, I really didn't want to stay in. The only one that looked nice from the 4 I saw was Bush's room. I kept feeling like I was in an old western movie. There were "antique" items in cabinets and book cases everywhere. Many of the figurines were in the shape of . . . you guessed it, a lamb. I almost felt a bit claustrophobic because I was afraid that I would bump into something fragile. Fortunately, I knocked nothing over.
The main point of the lunch was to go by the Exotica store across the street. No, it wasn't a stripper club. It was a jewelry store. It was crammed full of unique jewelry. The jewelry wasn't really my style because there were no dragons. I did see a very lovely dolphin toe ring. The find of the day was my silver band necklace that my dragon/phoenix slide on to. It was reasonably priced @ $40. I bought it with glee.
I had a lovely chat with my lunch date on the drive there and back. We have similar tastes and view points. It was wonderful to get out of the office and have a relaxing meal away. Hope to meet up w/ my lunch date again in the future.
Returning back to the office earlier than planned, I still decided to stay late. Got back to the Hyatt late and forced myself to work out. I hate running. I got on the bloody treadmill and jogged (wogged) more than I speed walked. Afterwards, I wanted to go to the corner market. Unfortunately it was CLOSED! They closed at 7 pm. They had a lot of alcohol in there. So next time, I know to stop there on the way back from work. I did pass by a store I had no idea was there. I can't believe I never saw it. It is store made popular by L. Flint.
Yup, the notorious Mr. Flint. They card you to get in! Who carries their id around all the time? I didn't expect to find a store like this literally right next to the hotel. I don't know how many times I have gone down this street and NEVER seen it. I don't know how I could have missed it. Oh well. Saved for another adventure. 4 more nights until Mexico!
The restaurant was also a bed and breakfast. They were very proud that 12 US presidents have stayed there. They have presidential rooms roped off and on display. I didn't look at all the rooms. What I saw, I really didn't want to stay in. The only one that looked nice from the 4 I saw was Bush's room. I kept feeling like I was in an old western movie. There were "antique" items in cabinets and book cases everywhere. Many of the figurines were in the shape of . . . you guessed it, a lamb. I almost felt a bit claustrophobic because I was afraid that I would bump into something fragile. Fortunately, I knocked nothing over.
The main point of the lunch was to go by the Exotica store across the street. No, it wasn't a stripper club. It was a jewelry store. It was crammed full of unique jewelry. The jewelry wasn't really my style because there were no dragons. I did see a very lovely dolphin toe ring. The find of the day was my silver band necklace that my dragon/phoenix slide on to. It was reasonably priced @ $40. I bought it with glee.
I had a lovely chat with my lunch date on the drive there and back. We have similar tastes and view points. It was wonderful to get out of the office and have a relaxing meal away. Hope to meet up w/ my lunch date again in the future.
Returning back to the office earlier than planned, I still decided to stay late. Got back to the Hyatt late and forced myself to work out. I hate running. I got on the bloody treadmill and jogged (wogged) more than I speed walked. Afterwards, I wanted to go to the corner market. Unfortunately it was CLOSED! They closed at 7 pm. They had a lot of alcohol in there. So next time, I know to stop there on the way back from work. I did pass by a store I had no idea was there. I can't believe I never saw it. It is store made popular by L. Flint.
Yup, the notorious Mr. Flint. They card you to get in! Who carries their id around all the time? I didn't expect to find a store like this literally right next to the hotel. I don't know how many times I have gone down this street and NEVER seen it. I don't know how I could have missed it. Oh well. Saved for another adventure. 4 more nights until Mexico!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Cincinnati Reds
Today was opening day for Cincinnati Reds. In honour of the day, I wore a red suit. I blended in well with the rest of the client who wore Reds Jerseys or anything Red. This was the first time I actually saw downtown Cinci with people all over. Stores were even open later it seemed. The weather was misty and rainy which was terrible for the parade. It did not stop anyone, people still congregated to see the floats, dancers and marching bands.
At night, fountain square was set up with a very loud band. Don't know who they were and don't care. It's the first time this year that I also saw the fountain turned on. It was quite nice. Graeter's ice cream - Toffee chip was delicious. It was a nice ending to a long day.
5 more nights until I leave for Mexico!
At night, fountain square was set up with a very loud band. Don't know who they were and don't care. It's the first time this year that I also saw the fountain turned on. It was quite nice. Graeter's ice cream - Toffee chip was delicious. It was a nice ending to a long day.
5 more nights until I leave for Mexico!
Sunday, March 30, 2008
VIP Suite
Two weeks ago, I stayed in room 1404. It was okay if a bit small. It was the first time I was on the other side of the building in a while.
Last week was better. I was in room 2026-2030. Yup. I had THREE rooms. It was the VIP suite I guess. My bedroom was a king bed in room 2030. Room 26/28 was actually a dining room seating 6 people and a living room with a couch and 2 arm chairs. Funny enough, the TV was still small. There was a nice wet bar area with a full fridge. The full fridge was very nice to store my fruits. Paula and Anna were so nice and gave me a huge fruit bowl again.
Kathy S. also received a large 3 room. So we had dinner one night for all of us in the room. We didn't purchase any alcohol. Next time . . . Kathy S and I found a corner market. Now we just need to figure out how late it is open until.
This week, I am in 1528. It is like a deluxe room. It has a mini fridge was is great for my fruit bowl again. Strawberries this week! Plenty of fruit for the rest of the week. I can not wait for this week to end. 6 more nights before we go to Mexico!
http://www.palaceresorts.com/resorts/aventuraspapalace/index.asp
The part of the spa I am interested in other than their lagoon and swimming area . . .
A lap pool welcomes serious swimmers. A range of facilities designed with relaxation in mind include a yoga Hut , meditation garden, indoor pool with sound therapy, and a labyrinth Zen path modeled after the one at France's Chartre Cathedral. For true heart-pumping fun, you can try out the 100-foot climbing tower, the 14-obstacle fitness trail, the virtual spinning room or the wide range of classes offered in the full-service aerobic studio . The fully equipped fitness center offers everything from free weights, to treadmills, to stair and weight machines. Come evening, you are swept up in lively entertainment extravaganzas presented nightly at the resort.
Beach coves
2 outdoor freestyle pools w/ 7 Jacuzzis
2 swim-up bars
Cross current pool
Lap pool
Indoor liquid sound pool w/2 Jacuzzis
Waterfalls
Fitness center
Sauna/steam room
Aerobic room
Spinning room
Yoga hut
Meditation pond
Labyrinth Zen path
Obstacle course
Climbing tower
3 lit tennis courts
Bicycles
I will try all of these and report each day.
Last week was better. I was in room 2026-2030. Yup. I had THREE rooms. It was the VIP suite I guess. My bedroom was a king bed in room 2030. Room 26/28 was actually a dining room seating 6 people and a living room with a couch and 2 arm chairs. Funny enough, the TV was still small. There was a nice wet bar area with a full fridge. The full fridge was very nice to store my fruits. Paula and Anna were so nice and gave me a huge fruit bowl again.
Kathy S. also received a large 3 room. So we had dinner one night for all of us in the room. We didn't purchase any alcohol. Next time . . . Kathy S and I found a corner market. Now we just need to figure out how late it is open until.
This week, I am in 1528. It is like a deluxe room. It has a mini fridge was is great for my fruit bowl again. Strawberries this week! Plenty of fruit for the rest of the week. I can not wait for this week to end. 6 more nights before we go to Mexico!
http://www.palaceresorts.com/resorts/aventuraspapalace/index.asp
The part of the spa I am interested in other than their lagoon and swimming area . . .
A lap pool welcomes serious swimmers. A range of facilities designed with relaxation in mind include a yoga Hut , meditation garden, indoor pool with sound therapy, and a labyrinth Zen path modeled after the one at France's Chartre Cathedral. For true heart-pumping fun, you can try out the 100-foot climbing tower, the 14-obstacle fitness trail, the virtual spinning room or the wide range of classes offered in the full-service aerobic studio . The fully equipped fitness center offers everything from free weights, to treadmills, to stair and weight machines. Come evening, you are swept up in lively entertainment extravaganzas presented nightly at the resort.
Beach coves
2 outdoor freestyle pools w/ 7 Jacuzzis
2 swim-up bars
Cross current pool
Lap pool
Indoor liquid sound pool w/2 Jacuzzis
Waterfalls
Fitness center
Sauna/steam room
Aerobic room
Spinning room
Yoga hut
Meditation pond
Labyrinth Zen path
Obstacle course
Climbing tower
3 lit tennis courts
Bicycles
I will try all of these and report each day.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
The Hyatt Stay
The Hyatt has been a pretty good stay in the past 4 stays. The service is wonderful as always. There has been some interesting things happening though. First impression was good when I found a wonderful fruit plate in my room. My first stay in February turned bad on the first night. While in bed, a little bug ran across my body. It looked like a bed bug that I looked up and cross referenced on the internet. I barely held back my scream. I caught it, killed it and stuffed it in a plastic bag as "evidence". Note to all, AVOID the 12th floor, especially room 1212.
I immediately called downstairs to have them switch me to another room. They did and I was put into the deluxe room. The new room was lovely. Deluxe rooms come with a fridge AND starbucks coffee bags.
The second week I was put in a standard room on the 8the floor that was okay. No fruit plate. :(
Last week, I was in 2232. It was a corner room. The layout was roomy. The bathroom was freezing. Turns out, there is no heat in the bathrooms ending in 32. The bed was the best so far. I asked about it and they told me that the beds were slowly being replaced by new pillow top beds. I have to say, they are wonderful. And surprise, surprise, I received another plate of fruit! Yummy. The odd thing about this room was that during my shower, my shower head fell off. DOH! I tried to put it back on. It didn't work so I left it. When I came back, a new shower nicer shower head was installed. YAY!
This week I am in room 2032. Same layout and the bathroom was a bit warmer. This time the heater/air conditioner was breaking. I was awaken several times with a loud noise sounding like an alarm. Then there was an annoying hum. I had to get maintenance come up and fix it. I figure, with my current streak, each room I stay in, something will need to be replaced. I am helping Hyatt speed up their renovations. :)
This week, Chris is in. We are going to Montgomery Inn - Boathouse. I will be able to rate it later this week. Tonight's dinner was at Wahmee, Chinese restaurant next to the Hyatt. It was a big disappointment. I wouldn't go back and don't recommend it.
I immediately called downstairs to have them switch me to another room. They did and I was put into the deluxe room. The new room was lovely. Deluxe rooms come with a fridge AND starbucks coffee bags.
The second week I was put in a standard room on the 8the floor that was okay. No fruit plate. :(
Last week, I was in 2232. It was a corner room. The layout was roomy. The bathroom was freezing. Turns out, there is no heat in the bathrooms ending in 32. The bed was the best so far. I asked about it and they told me that the beds were slowly being replaced by new pillow top beds. I have to say, they are wonderful. And surprise, surprise, I received another plate of fruit! Yummy. The odd thing about this room was that during my shower, my shower head fell off. DOH! I tried to put it back on. It didn't work so I left it. When I came back, a new shower nicer shower head was installed. YAY!
This week I am in room 2032. Same layout and the bathroom was a bit warmer. This time the heater/air conditioner was breaking. I was awaken several times with a loud noise sounding like an alarm. Then there was an annoying hum. I had to get maintenance come up and fix it. I figure, with my current streak, each room I stay in, something will need to be replaced. I am helping Hyatt speed up their renovations. :)
This week, Chris is in. We are going to Montgomery Inn - Boathouse. I will be able to rate it later this week. Tonight's dinner was at Wahmee, Chinese restaurant next to the Hyatt. It was a big disappointment. I wouldn't go back and don't recommend it.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Miami Ink
I get into Cinci with a drill sergent for a flight attendant. Fortunately, I followed the rules and only brought 1 baggage with me. All the people with a laptop bag AND a purse, shame on you! It was rather amusing listening to the fights about the baggage.
The highlight of the trip was when I exited the plane and went to buy dinner at Quiznos Sub. I saw Ami James! I was so startled, I did a double take. And first he was startled too. He looked at me, then looked behind him to see if I was looking at him or someone else. I stared at him and then asked, are you the guy from Miami Ink? He smiled and nodded.
I then cursed myself for not bringing my travel camera like I wanted too. Instead I had to take a picture via the camera phone which is a crappy camera. Sigh. I find out later that there is a V-Twin (?) convention in downtown Cinci. And wow were the bikes cool. The men walking around also helped improve the view in Cinci this week.
We finally went to a nice place to eat for dinner. Chris came into town and took us to Teak. (1049 51 St. Gregory) It was in a quaint part of town. The food was Thai and Sushi. Right, when does sushi go with Thai? I have no clue. All I know was that the food was good. I had mainly sashmi. Large consumption of alcohol followed. Unfortunately, it was one of those nights. The alcohol didn't work on me at all. After the first martini, the following 4 had no affect on me whatsoever. Sigh.
There were quite a few hurt puppies the next morning getting into work. I was amazed that I was the first one in, just before 8 AM. I even had to put on cosmetics and check out before I walked to work. Ah well, I guess those consulting days were put to good use.
The highlight of the trip was when I exited the plane and went to buy dinner at Quiznos Sub. I saw Ami James! I was so startled, I did a double take. And first he was startled too. He looked at me, then looked behind him to see if I was looking at him or someone else. I stared at him and then asked, are you the guy from Miami Ink? He smiled and nodded.
I then cursed myself for not bringing my travel camera like I wanted too. Instead I had to take a picture via the camera phone which is a crappy camera. Sigh. I find out later that there is a V-Twin (?) convention in downtown Cinci. And wow were the bikes cool. The men walking around also helped improve the view in Cinci this week.
We finally went to a nice place to eat for dinner. Chris came into town and took us to Teak. (1049 51 St. Gregory) It was in a quaint part of town. The food was Thai and Sushi. Right, when does sushi go with Thai? I have no clue. All I know was that the food was good. I had mainly sashmi. Large consumption of alcohol followed. Unfortunately, it was one of those nights. The alcohol didn't work on me at all. After the first martini, the following 4 had no affect on me whatsoever. Sigh.
There were quite a few hurt puppies the next morning getting into work. I was amazed that I was the first one in, just before 8 AM. I even had to put on cosmetics and check out before I walked to work. Ah well, I guess those consulting days were put to good use.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Ian from southern London
My short weekend home (Friday evening to Sunday afternoon) was relaxing. Didn't get many of my Honey Do list items completed. Darn it. I have higher hopes for this coming weekend when I return home on Thursday. Top of the list is to close the books on my Creative Memories and ensure I am ready to do my taxes. It will be a fun one this year. 6 State taxes, standard married fed taxes and my small business taxes.
My cab ride to the airport wasn't looking good. The driver was 12 minutes late. Fortunately, I have been ordering the car a bit earlier in preparation for this. We make it to the airport smoothly. The driver was not my favourite driver, Sher. And the Lincoln (whatever model) did not have heated seats/back in the back. I was disappointed since I really wanted to warm my freezing back.
Security was a breeze. The poor young guy in front of me was harassed by the TSA agent. The older TSA agent was sweet as can be with me. No waiting! :) I get to the gate. Thank goodness it is at C12 instead of C34 or C36 where it has been for the past couple of weeks. Less walk. Yes, I know walking is good exercise. I don't care. I get enough exercise at the gym.
The flight is delayed. So it begins. It isn't too delayed, only about 7 minutes. They said it could be up to 11 minutes late. That isn't too bad. I figure w/ the wind pushing us, we'd get there on time still. Make up the time in the air. To my surprise we land EARLY. We get there 25 minutes before we were supposed to.
The flight attendant, Pat was a stitch. She couldn't remember where we were flying to, when she paused to check w/ the pilots, everyone yelled, CINCINNATI!. She had the entire Safety procedure memorized. That is a pleasant change. Many of the last dozen flights, the flight attendants were all reading it from a script. Pat interjected some humour in her "presentation".
Now to Ian. Ian was a older gentleman from the UK. He had travelled from Southern England to Amsterdam to Detroit and then end up in Cinci. Ugh. The worst part, he was only going to be in Cinci for a day. He is to fly back the day after. Double UGH! His company partners with another company in OH that manufactures equipment for the Petroleum industry. . . machinery for Oil Rigs for example. His company makes the software for this company. Not sure what the software does.
We had a lovely conversation and of course, when speaking to a British gent, my slight continental accent started to creep back in my tone and my vocabulary switch to more British English than American English. Ian is apparently a brilliant Physicist in his area. Pretty impressive. We bonded a bit over the love of Sciences. My father was also passionate about Physics. It was amusing that his oldest daughter had issues for the first time in electromagnetics @ Univ. That was when my physics grades started to fail. Up until then, Physics was super easy. After EM Physics in Adv. Physics in High school, I decided being a physicist was not for me. This young lady is studying to be an astrophysicist. Sigh. More power to her.
Ian and I also discussed the trials of the youth now a days. I am not sure if it is a sign of me getting older or if this has been a problem that is becoming quite bad. No matter where I go, there is always some one older than me tell me that problems with the young coming out of college. Unfortunately, I do agree with many of the ones disparaging the up and coming work force. The best way I can say it is, this 12 rules I found on the Internet.
TWELVE RULES FOR RAISING DELINQUENT CHILDREN
1. Begin with infancy to give the child everything he wants. In this way he will grow up to believe the world owes him a living.
2. When he picks up bad words, laugh at him. This will make him think he's cute. It will also encourage him to pick up "cuter phrases" that will blow off the top of your head later.
3. Never give him any spiritual training. Wait until he is 21, and then let him "decide for himself."
4. Avoid the use of the word "wrong." It may develop a guilt complex. This will condition him to believe later, when he is arrested for stealing a car, that society is against him and he is being persecuted.
5. Pick up everything he leaves lying around - books, shoes, clothes. Do everything for him so that he will be experienced in throwing all responsibility on others.
6. Let him read any printed matter he can get his hands on. Be careful that the silverware and drinking glasses are sterilized, but don't worry about his mind feasting on garbage.
7. Quarrel frequently in the presence of your children. In this way they will not be too shocked when the home is broken up later.
8. Give the child all the spending money he wants. Never let him earn his. Why should he have things as tough as you did?
9. Satisfy his every craving for food, drink, and comfort. See that every sensual desire is gratified. Denial may lead to harmful frustration.
10. Take his part against neighbors, teachers, policemen. They are all prejudiced against your child.
11. When he gets into real trouble, apologize to yourself by saying, "I never could do anything with him!"
12. Prepare yourself for a life of grief. You'll surely have it.
My cab ride to the airport wasn't looking good. The driver was 12 minutes late. Fortunately, I have been ordering the car a bit earlier in preparation for this. We make it to the airport smoothly. The driver was not my favourite driver, Sher. And the Lincoln (whatever model) did not have heated seats/back in the back. I was disappointed since I really wanted to warm my freezing back.
Security was a breeze. The poor young guy in front of me was harassed by the TSA agent. The older TSA agent was sweet as can be with me. No waiting! :) I get to the gate. Thank goodness it is at C12 instead of C34 or C36 where it has been for the past couple of weeks. Less walk. Yes, I know walking is good exercise. I don't care. I get enough exercise at the gym.
The flight is delayed. So it begins. It isn't too delayed, only about 7 minutes. They said it could be up to 11 minutes late. That isn't too bad. I figure w/ the wind pushing us, we'd get there on time still. Make up the time in the air. To my surprise we land EARLY. We get there 25 minutes before we were supposed to.
The flight attendant, Pat was a stitch. She couldn't remember where we were flying to, when she paused to check w/ the pilots, everyone yelled, CINCINNATI!. She had the entire Safety procedure memorized. That is a pleasant change. Many of the last dozen flights, the flight attendants were all reading it from a script. Pat interjected some humour in her "presentation".
Now to Ian. Ian was a older gentleman from the UK. He had travelled from Southern England to Amsterdam to Detroit and then end up in Cinci. Ugh. The worst part, he was only going to be in Cinci for a day. He is to fly back the day after. Double UGH! His company partners with another company in OH that manufactures equipment for the Petroleum industry. . . machinery for Oil Rigs for example. His company makes the software for this company. Not sure what the software does.
We had a lovely conversation and of course, when speaking to a British gent, my slight continental accent started to creep back in my tone and my vocabulary switch to more British English than American English. Ian is apparently a brilliant Physicist in his area. Pretty impressive. We bonded a bit over the love of Sciences. My father was also passionate about Physics. It was amusing that his oldest daughter had issues for the first time in electromagnetics @ Univ. That was when my physics grades started to fail. Up until then, Physics was super easy. After EM Physics in Adv. Physics in High school, I decided being a physicist was not for me. This young lady is studying to be an astrophysicist. Sigh. More power to her.
Ian and I also discussed the trials of the youth now a days. I am not sure if it is a sign of me getting older or if this has been a problem that is becoming quite bad. No matter where I go, there is always some one older than me tell me that problems with the young coming out of college. Unfortunately, I do agree with many of the ones disparaging the up and coming work force. The best way I can say it is, this 12 rules I found on the Internet.
TWELVE RULES FOR RAISING DELINQUENT CHILDREN
1. Begin with infancy to give the child everything he wants. In this way he will grow up to believe the world owes him a living.
2. When he picks up bad words, laugh at him. This will make him think he's cute. It will also encourage him to pick up "cuter phrases" that will blow off the top of your head later.
3. Never give him any spiritual training. Wait until he is 21, and then let him "decide for himself."
4. Avoid the use of the word "wrong." It may develop a guilt complex. This will condition him to believe later, when he is arrested for stealing a car, that society is against him and he is being persecuted.
5. Pick up everything he leaves lying around - books, shoes, clothes. Do everything for him so that he will be experienced in throwing all responsibility on others.
6. Let him read any printed matter he can get his hands on. Be careful that the silverware and drinking glasses are sterilized, but don't worry about his mind feasting on garbage.
7. Quarrel frequently in the presence of your children. In this way they will not be too shocked when the home is broken up later.
8. Give the child all the spending money he wants. Never let him earn his. Why should he have things as tough as you did?
9. Satisfy his every craving for food, drink, and comfort. See that every sensual desire is gratified. Denial may lead to harmful frustration.
10. Take his part against neighbors, teachers, policemen. They are all prejudiced against your child.
11. When he gets into real trouble, apologize to yourself by saying, "I never could do anything with him!"
12. Prepare yourself for a life of grief. You'll surely have it.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
The Westin stay 2
I have now stayed at the Westin Twice in a row. I find that the house keeping is rather sporadic. Some days, I receive a refill on my coffee filters. Some days I receive new toiletries. The oddest is this week, where all my toiletries are used just one night and then they take it away and replace with new! I am not sure what is exactly going on.
On a positive note, the fruits provided in the 5-7 hour were huge Asian pears! Very tasty. There were some very tasty red pears too. The work out room was also quite empty so it was nice. Met a nice guy, Nick who is a branch manager at Proctor and Gamble. He recommended trying out the Precinct and Jeff Ruby's. This is the 4th person to recommend both these places. I guess a trip to these restaurants are definitely on the list.
I hope my flight tomorrow will be okay. There is some talk of snow. Coming here this week was odd. We pulled away from the gate and waited for an hour, then they pulled us back and let people off. Two women left the plane and claimed that they had no baggage on board. I kept thinking, GOD I hope there isn't a bomb. I would be very pissed to be blown out of the sky. Fortunately, no issues. Whew.
On a positive note, the fruits provided in the 5-7 hour were huge Asian pears! Very tasty. There were some very tasty red pears too. The work out room was also quite empty so it was nice. Met a nice guy, Nick who is a branch manager at Proctor and Gamble. He recommended trying out the Precinct and Jeff Ruby's. This is the 4th person to recommend both these places. I guess a trip to these restaurants are definitely on the list.
I hope my flight tomorrow will be okay. There is some talk of snow. Coming here this week was odd. We pulled away from the gate and waited for an hour, then they pulled us back and let people off. Two women left the plane and claimed that they had no baggage on board. I kept thinking, GOD I hope there isn't a bomb. I would be very pissed to be blown out of the sky. Fortunately, no issues. Whew.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
First Travel in the New Year
My first flight out for the year didn't start off well. My limo was late and we barely made it to the airport in time. When I got to the airport, security was interesting due to all the traveling students.
Luckily my flight was delayed. The delay was kind of amusing. The woman didn't know how to operate the gate correctly. Apparently, she knocked into the plane. She looked pretty tired and didn't want to be there. She was slow enough that the 3 pilots catching a flight back after work were all grumbling about her.
The only good thing was that the flight was pretty empty. I got to sit by myself. A pleasure. Hope I will be as lucky for the rest of my flights - half empty.
Executive coach taking me to the hotel was interesting. The driver had very decided ideas on politics. He went on for a while about the history of Cincinnati too. Fortunately it was a short ride.
Checking into the Westin was a dream. I was impressed with the room. The decor is definitely my style. The furniture was dark wood. The lines are nice and clean. The lounge chair is nice and square. I didn't think it would be so comfortable. The leather ottoman, hmm, very interesting.
After another week here, I will do a comparison of the hotels I have stayed at in Cinci. I am trying to decide which one would be the one I want to stay at long term. It is more difficult than I thought.
Luckily my flight was delayed. The delay was kind of amusing. The woman didn't know how to operate the gate correctly. Apparently, she knocked into the plane. She looked pretty tired and didn't want to be there. She was slow enough that the 3 pilots catching a flight back after work were all grumbling about her.
The only good thing was that the flight was pretty empty. I got to sit by myself. A pleasure. Hope I will be as lucky for the rest of my flights - half empty.
Executive coach taking me to the hotel was interesting. The driver had very decided ideas on politics. He went on for a while about the history of Cincinnati too. Fortunately it was a short ride.
Checking into the Westin was a dream. I was impressed with the room. The decor is definitely my style. The furniture was dark wood. The lines are nice and clean. The lounge chair is nice and square. I didn't think it would be so comfortable. The leather ottoman, hmm, very interesting.
After another week here, I will do a comparison of the hotels I have stayed at in Cinci. I am trying to decide which one would be the one I want to stay at long term. It is more difficult than I thought.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Upcoming Vacations
As many of you know, I am a bit of a planner. I have 2008, 2009 and 2010 all planned out. No, there is no medication for my "problem".
For this New Year, we only have 1 big vacation due to B's work. We are going to Mexico in April. I can not wait. We are going to a Palace all inclusive resort so it should be a blast. We are going to relax, ready, sleep and do what couples do . . .
For 2009, I have my Galapagos Island Diving already all booked. Depending on finances, we might be able to do St. Lucia in April 2009. That would be awesome. St. Lucia in April and Galapagos in June/July. 2010 is reserved specifically for our Australia and New Zealand tour. I believe I might be able to get 4 weeks off. We'll see how my new boss to be feels about it.
Now why am I bringing this up now? Well, it is because B sent me an email that kind of freaked me out. As you may know, I am an avid scuba diver. I love to scuba dive. I want to go diving every year multiple times. Well, B sent me a little something that would give me more than a panic attack.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=505753&in_page_id=1770
For this New Year, we only have 1 big vacation due to B's work. We are going to Mexico in April. I can not wait. We are going to a Palace all inclusive resort so it should be a blast. We are going to relax, ready, sleep and do what couples do . . .
For 2009, I have my Galapagos Island Diving already all booked. Depending on finances, we might be able to do St. Lucia in April 2009. That would be awesome. St. Lucia in April and Galapagos in June/July. 2010 is reserved specifically for our Australia and New Zealand tour. I believe I might be able to get 4 weeks off. We'll see how my new boss to be feels about it.
Now why am I bringing this up now? Well, it is because B sent me an email that kind of freaked me out. As you may know, I am an avid scuba diver. I love to scuba dive. I want to go diving every year multiple times. Well, B sent me a little something that would give me more than a panic attack.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=505753&in_page_id=1770
ARRGGHHH!!!! SO the things running through my mind are, SHARK! SHARK! SHARK! Then I think, oh God I hope the shark doesn't like Chinese food. Because this is one Chinese delivery I hope not to make. Then I think what is wrong with this dumb ass person? When he is going to start paddling like they do in the cartoons? Would he have a huge stream of water shooting out from the back of his canoe as he is madly paddling away?
Then I think, who is this photographer? How the HELL did he take this shot. I wish I could take a shot like that! Read the article, it is a bit incredible. You know those academic types, totally out of touch with reality. Crazy buggers.
SO needlessly to say, South Africa is NOT on my list of vacation spots. I do not want to dive with great whites. They freak me out. Of course the debate is that there are Great Whites in Australia too. And that there are famous shark spots in the Galapagos. I am not going to think about that. Ignorance is bliss.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Christmas Visit home
Well, I am finally back again to write about my travel to my parents home. The weather cooperated and we made it to my parents home easily the Saturday before Christmas. Not to my hubby's surprise, we made it before both my sisters, even though they have only a 2 hour drive while we have a 4.5 hour drive.
We packed up everything into the car with no issues. Looked like we were going to move in for a month!
Air mattress - Check!
Luggage - Check!
Food - Check!
Gifts - Check!
And then we get there and I realize I didn't bring enough blankets or the portable heater. And I forgot a couple of pairs of underwear. DOH! Oh well, we were actually warm enough this year. Must be because we keep our house colder this past year. It is 67 when we are up and about. 60 when we are not supposed to be at home. And it drops to 57 when we are sleeping. Thank goodness for heated mattress pads! And people wonder why I prefer to work in the office rather than remote from home.
B really wanted to bring his entire HD system with him so that we can watch HD movies, but we decided not to. Instead, he brought his xbox 360, guitar hero, many games and my DDR. DDR and Guitar hero were a hit. I would have to say that my sisters liked DDR. Al decided to work out for an hour on DDR. I forgot to mention to her that she might be sore the next day. Well . . . as it turns out, she was pretty sore for a couple of days. Her poor new hubby. All I heard was, "I need a massage. A, massage my legs!"
J played guitar hero more. Good for her. No sore legs. She was very good at it. We believe it is because she used to play the violin. Mes parents also tried the video games. Where was the video camera when this was happening?? Sigh.
We tried something new this year. We each were responsible for a meal. It all went pretty well. This was our trial year. Next year we will do better. Hopefully, we will get our quantity right. A, we are NOT a family of 12. There are only 7 of us and 4 of the people eat very little. Three of us are more vegetarians. 2 Mountains of red meat twice in a row is quite a bit. J, your crock pot cooks for a church congregation. WAY too much food.
We ended up just relaxing and playing video games the entire break. I snuck some time in to do work. I received some glares here and there. The big thing I did was complete most of AL and A's wedding album. It was all digital and has been sent off to the presses! I hope to receive in back in a couple of weeks. Generally it only takes 1 week, but with the rush of Christmas, I am sure that there is a huge backlog.
We traveled back on Thursday before New Years instead of Friday due to the weather again. Fortunately we did make it back before the storm. It was pretty nasty driving weather in Michigan on Friday. I get one week left at home and then I am on the road again. I wonder how many delays I will have on Sunday.
We packed up everything into the car with no issues. Looked like we were going to move in for a month!
Air mattress - Check!
Luggage - Check!
Food - Check!
Gifts - Check!
And then we get there and I realize I didn't bring enough blankets or the portable heater. And I forgot a couple of pairs of underwear. DOH! Oh well, we were actually warm enough this year. Must be because we keep our house colder this past year. It is 67 when we are up and about. 60 when we are not supposed to be at home. And it drops to 57 when we are sleeping. Thank goodness for heated mattress pads! And people wonder why I prefer to work in the office rather than remote from home.
B really wanted to bring his entire HD system with him so that we can watch HD movies, but we decided not to. Instead, he brought his xbox 360, guitar hero, many games and my DDR. DDR and Guitar hero were a hit. I would have to say that my sisters liked DDR. Al decided to work out for an hour on DDR. I forgot to mention to her that she might be sore the next day. Well . . . as it turns out, she was pretty sore for a couple of days. Her poor new hubby. All I heard was, "I need a massage. A, massage my legs!"
J played guitar hero more. Good for her. No sore legs. She was very good at it. We believe it is because she used to play the violin. Mes parents also tried the video games. Where was the video camera when this was happening?? Sigh.
We tried something new this year. We each were responsible for a meal. It all went pretty well. This was our trial year. Next year we will do better. Hopefully, we will get our quantity right. A, we are NOT a family of 12. There are only 7 of us and 4 of the people eat very little. Three of us are more vegetarians. 2 Mountains of red meat twice in a row is quite a bit. J, your crock pot cooks for a church congregation. WAY too much food.
We ended up just relaxing and playing video games the entire break. I snuck some time in to do work. I received some glares here and there. The big thing I did was complete most of AL and A's wedding album. It was all digital and has been sent off to the presses! I hope to receive in back in a couple of weeks. Generally it only takes 1 week, but with the rush of Christmas, I am sure that there is a huge backlog.
We traveled back on Thursday before New Years instead of Friday due to the weather again. Fortunately we did make it back before the storm. It was pretty nasty driving weather in Michigan on Friday. I get one week left at home and then I am on the road again. I wonder how many delays I will have on Sunday.
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