loss

Two days after my last post, my father passed away.  It was not unexpected and yet still a bit of a surprise.  Hope for a bit more time still lingered until the end.  He slipped away slowly and what I thought was a peaceful state.  He went to the hospital on the evening of October 20, 2011.  He passed at 4:30pm October 21, 2011.  His kidneys had failed.  He was in a physical and mental state of mind to decide not to take actions what would've prolonged his life by possible days but would've left him hooked up to equipment he did not want.  He never liked to be tied down physically - freedom of movement was most important to him. 

So many people have graciously asked how we are doing and what we'll do now.  We being my mother and I.  I tell people that we'll go back to the lifestyle we had when he was on the road as a truck driver for most of my life.  We lived one lifestyle while he was on the road and another when he came home on weekends or maybe twice a month sometimes.  We watched what we wanted on television, we went to eat at restaurants he didn't like, we will go shopping for hours and cleaned the house more thoroughly.  The major difference this time is that dad's not going to call home every night nor is he going to come home and take over the remote and demand this, this and this.

My brother and his family are feeling dad's loss in their own way.  What I noticed immediately was my sister-in-law and my brother standing at my dad's chair at the dining room table, where he was always found, and they were reflective and tearing up. 

Dad was one of kind.  While my brother and I have his DNA and various other traits that can't be denied, there was only one dad.  I won't miss the cigarette smoke and the smoker's hacking that goes with it.  I'll miss the big kid inside we all recognized. 

We didn't have the ideal parent in dad.  I used to say mom had three kids including him.  Sometimes I felt more mature than he was.  He had a hard life, some of that self-inflicted.   What we got was a man who had known a lot of pain and hopefully, through us, a lot of love.  My experiences with dad growing up definitely prepared me for a challenging life and helped make me a better person. 

What I've learned from both of my parents is to keep moving forward.  Life does go on and you might as well go with it.  So while I cry at times and don't expect that to stop for awhile, it all comes from love.  Loss should be given it's due but it I won't let it slow me down.  Dad didn't want people to cry over him, literally, at a funeral service, and he didn't want tears as he lay in the hospital bed dying.  His last words were of love and that's all I could have asked for.

perspective

Ever since the news early this week about Dan Wheldon's death at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway I've had the urge to express something.  Let me explain something before you wonder why I felt I had to express myself.  I've worked two years in a row at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as a Safety person a/k/a yellow shirt in the outside Paddock at the start/finish line.  I worked those two years watching out for the safety of race fans and watched as a fan, the action on the track.  I'm also an 18-year veteran of the Brickyard 400 and I attend Nascar races at Phoenix International Raceway.

Those of us in Indiana who didn't get a basketball in the crib, grew up to the sounds of cars going around a two and a half mile oval at incredible speeds.  Racing is a part of my life.  Dan Wheldon wasn't my favorite driver by any means and yet the violence of the crash got to me.  The horrific footage that was played over and over again on the internet and television is something I won't forget any time soon.  One of the worst accidents I've seen in any motorsport. 

The thrill of these races comes in the dance with danger.  The action on the track of passing, going faster and faster, waiting to see if fate deals a bad hand with mechanical issues, it's all part of the excitement.  Wrecks are spectacular in these events!  When you see and hear these incredible machines colliding with each other or a wall in a fraction of a second makes the adrenaline rise.  While we never want anyone to be hurt, or worse killed, we love the accidents. 

It is true that both Indy Car and Nascar make tremendous efforts to ensure the safety of the driver, they can't make guarantees.  That risk is always there and it draws the drivers in as much as the fans.  Is the fame, noteriety, and money worth the life that, in this case, is lost?  No.  Not at all.  We, as humans, sometimes can't resist dancing on that edge, living life a little dangerously to feel truly alive.  It's why some of us ride roller coasters, jump out of planes, bungee jump, and take chances of all sorts.

While moved by the death of Dan Wheldon, I have to keep perspective and focus a little closer to home.  A friend, long time co-worker, is dealing with the illness of her baby brother (who is 39) who is in the hospital.  His condition is quite serious, cancer always is.  He is also the youngest member of this large family.  It's a very difficult time for the family.  I've never met the man.  His sister and I have a good friendship and it is for her that I am concerned.  I relate because I also have a younger brother and I know if the tables were turned how I would feel. 

No press conferences, no benefits, no projects will be named for my friend's brother.  He's another number on a page compared to the high profile life of Dan Wheldon.  Both deserve respect and the families deserve support.  One family grieves in the public eye and one family sits out of the spotlight, worrying, praying, and hoping for one more day.


"And so, it's been one of those days
When I let things get to me
I've got no right to complain
'Cause when I look around I see
Folks out there fighting for every breath
And it makes me realize
It's just been one of those days for me
But for them it's been one of those lives"

One of Those Lives, Brad Paisley

Indianapolis Bloggers

I am a new member of Indianapolis Bloggers.  My boyfriend found this group online and suggested we join.  Some of you may know I began this blog as a project for school and have continued as a form of communication and self-expression. 

This group has a good number of fellow bloggers communicating a variety of topics and exercising their freedom of speech, something very precious to me.

I would also like to encourage anyone reading this to remember to send a Thank You note via the USO or similar organizations to the service men and women who defend and protect our rights around the world. 

Have a great day!

Twitter: @IndyBloggers
Facebook: Indianapolis Bloggers
http;//indianapolisblogs.blogspot.com

time flies when you're having fun

So, I've been saying I need to put out a new post on my blog and then I do a million other things.  Summer has flown by me and fall is trying to run full speed ahead.  What have I been doing?  Well, let's start with festivals - Fountain Square Art Squared and Oranje.  Both one day events, actually on the same day!  Talk about tired! 

It was all worth it.  I think both events went very well.  I gained some new connections, new experiences and had some fun with my friends and wonderful boyfriend, who I got involved in both projects.  He is a photographer and took some great shots from both events. 

What else?  We went with my cousins to Dale Hollow Lake, staying at the campgrounds of Sulpher Creek Resort.  We had a great time even if it did rain part of the weekend.  Unplugging and getting back to nature was just what we needed.  The water down there is so clean and it was a wonderful 85 degrees.  If we can work it out, we'll return for a long weekend next year.  The drive home was on 61 North to I-65 and it was very scenic and peaceful.  No traffic problems there at all.  It wasn't the fastest route, I could have cut over through Glasgow, KY to get to I-65 faster but I'm glad we took the longer route.  Interstate travel can be so boring/stressful so 61N was a nice change of routine.  When we did reach I-65 we had no problems but the scenery was different.

Planning a party for Halloween/Birthdays at my friend Doug's lake house in Coatesville.  His birthday is 5 days before mine so we have to throw a party!  He and Danielle are great company.  Before going to Kentucky, we spent a day out on Heritage Lake with them and had a wonderful time.  Hopefully next year we can all go to Dale Hollow together - would be so much fun!

Travel isn't over for me.  Going to Phoenix in November to see my brother & family.  Cousin Sheena is going with me and it's her first time in Phoenix so I can't wait to show her around.  Danielle, Doug, Sheena, Erik and I are going to Kings Island in October with a bus full of friends and family organized by Mandy.  Erik and I talking about all of our travel options for next year.  So lucky to have someone to travel with and share experiences. 

School has started, the season has started at the Indiana Repertory Theater and the NBA season is on hold.  School is going well and so is the theater.  I love that part-time job.  I'll work basketball games if they ever play again.  Have to work to save for these travel plans we are coming up with. 

My volunteer work for the fall will consist of Super Bowl 2012 activities which includes working 3 Colts home games.  I'm on the Local Organizing Committee for the 2012 Mutt Strut.  I love that event and wanted more involvement so they accepted my request to be on the committee.  We start monthly meetings for that in October. I've also signed up to do a one night event called Tonic Ball, a fund raiser for the food banks.  Great event and lots of live music. 

My life is full and wonderful.  I know the year isn't over but it's been one of the best years of my life in so many ways and for so many reasons.  I'm so glad I have the good sense to realize it and cherish it.  Don't take anything for granted folks, life is too short!

tragedy & memories

Most people in my geographical area know what happened over the weekend at the Indiana State Fairgrounds right before Sugarland was to take the stage.  The wind blew the stage down and 5 people died, many more were injured. 

I went to the fair last night.  I kept looking at the crumpled rigging of the stage, the blue tarp lying there, the seats have all been removed, and the trailers that hauled the Sugarland stage still parked, looking abandoned.  The sun was setting and it looked so eerie, quiet and the scene demanded some respect.  A band that was at a peak in their career, shocked, shaken, by mother nature's wrath.  Families mourning, worrying about those still in the hospital.  Professionals and the public wondering how this happened, why this happened, and can it happen again.

I'm a veteran of about 300 concerts in my lifetime at all sorts of venues, indoors and outdoors.  I've been to the state fair grandstands to see concerts more times than I can count right now, I've gone nearly every year since I was a teenager.  I stood at the fence looking at the crumpled stage and all I could think was how many times I had been close to that stage, or up in the grandstands watching, knowing exactly where the video screens were placed (removed by last night), looking at the steel rigging that supported the lights, speakers and the canopy that covered the stage and knowing where the bands come and go to the green room.  I could see it all unfold in my mind, aided by several views of the amateur videos on Youtube. 

There was nothing to say out loud.  A night that should have been filled with fun, singing along, and a great performance ended before it had barely begun.  A girlfriend and I were talking how it could have happened to either of us at one of the shows we've been to.  Something can always go wrong and when it involves mother nature then there's nothing you can do.  I've gone to shows in rain storms, cold weather, scorching hot days, jumped in the mosh pit (ok, 20+ years ago, but I did it), and camped out all night to get in back in the days of general admission seating.  I've been lucky and I know it.

Tragic events are not foreign to the Indiana State Fair nor to concerts in general.  I hope it doesn't prevent the state fair from holding concerts on those grounds again.  I hope the space, after a season, doesn't become an unused venue.  A monument to the lives lost would be appropriate, but celebrate what drew people together in the first place - music.  Music and art are the world's language, transcending ethnicity, geography and grief.  Let healing begin with music in the open air again at the state fair.

Parades, art, roller coasters and life

Wow, it's been awhile.  Where do I start?  Things are going great with my new guy.  Can't believe how fast time has moved this summer.  Its been very hot, but a very good summer.  Drive-in theater, Oranje Peel parties, art shows, indoor movies, family visits, go karts, we've done it all.

I've been really jazzed about the Fountain Square Art Squared event.  I've been working to recruit volunteers, participants for the art fair, and participants to march in our parade.  I'm working on Star Wars, Star Trek, and Ghost Buster characters.  I've got the junior roller derby team confirmed, waiting on the adult teams to confirm.  I've sent a request to Sammy Terry, legendary local t.v. scary man and to the jugglers group.  This art council is so much fun to be a part of and has inspired me to apply for my event management certification following my travel planning certification.

Erik and I are headed to Kings Island for a long weekend on the 6th.  Our first travel adventure together.  This trip and the one on Labor Day weekend to Dale Hollow Lake with my cousins will be test to see if we can move on to longer trips.  I believe we'll be just fine.  We get on so well. 

Now that the NFL lockout is over and we will have a super bowl, my volunteer activities for that event have begun.  I'll have that event overlapping with the Fountain Square event and Oranje Art and Music Fest.  The Humane Society 2012 Mutt Strutt committees start meeting around October of this year.  I'm already on the merchandising committee for the 2012 BMW Golf Championship at Crooked Stick Golf Course.  I'm all over this volunteer thing!  I do love it.

I have had to give up some things - like the FFA Convention and jobs at both race tracks.  The NBA is on lockout so I won't have that for awhile.  The Indiana Repertory Theater is the only part-time job I'll be working consistently for awhile, luckily it is my favorite.

Two classes this semester and one of them requires my attendance on campus, ugh!  Online works much better with my life, but it wasn't an option this go round.  Its all worth it.  I could be a part time student forever.

I make to-do lists every week.  I don't always complete them.  I try.  Maybe I'm being an over achiever.  Life is short though and there's so much to do, see, and experience.  Erik is wonderful about helping me to relax.  He calms me down in a lot of ways and supports my efforts.  Its a tough job, but he's up for it!

"...So bless me father yes I have sinned
Given the chance I’ll prob’ly do it again
I don’t need absolution just a simple solution will do...
...
And I don’t know what I’m supposed to do
Maybe have me a boat drink or two
It’s good for coastal confessions I hear
Tell the truth
Tell the truth
I’ve got some coastal confessions to make
How ‘bout you
How ‘bout you
How ‘bout you
How ‘bout you ..."

cleaning

So I had this huge pile of financial papers that needed to be sorted and shredded.  You know, the stuff we collect weekly and monthly - receipts, bills, bank statements, invoices, stuff we're not sure what to do with - stuff.  It's really quite shameful that this pile has been accumulated over close to two years and I did nothing about it. 

I used to be so organized and prudent about such documentation.  I balanced my check book monthly.  I filed away important papers.  Then I began taking on more and more responsibility - volunteering, school, part-time jobs, a more active social life - and this pile began to grow as it was one of those things that I couldn't make time for.

Most of us have heard old phrases such as: cleanliness is next to godliness, cleaning clears the mind, yada yada yada...I'll never be a god and my mind being clear sounds like an impossibility.

Well, the pile grew and grew and grew until it overran the weak container I put it into so long ago.  Little papers all around and haunting me every time I opened the door. 

My boyfriend (hi babe!) had a flood in his basement and has spent days cleaning up the mess.  I guess you could say he inspired me.  I especially felt the inspiration when he came over to the house and I realized he may actually see my pile of shame.  He's teased me about it - of course I told him - and has offered suggestions. 

I thought years ago when I got a paper shredder that it was kinda fun to put the paper through it.  But when you sit and do that for 90 minutes plus and realize you still have half a pile left and your back hurts from the repetitive motion, it isn't fun anymore, its just work.

On a positive note, I will say I do feel some since of relief for having at least gotten half way through the pile of shame.  It's not quite so shameful now.  I do feel some ownership over the problem and will see it through now that it's begun.  The trick will be to keep it in check and try to rebuild some of those lost organizational habits.  Wish me luck!

overlooking the obvious

Why is it we overlook the obvious in our lives?  Is it because we choose to do so?  Is it a matter of having blinders on?  Could it be because our subconscious knows we aren't ready to deal with whatever is obvious? 

I have opened my eyes and realized what was waiting for me in the form of a wonderful guy.  He's been there all along.  Maybe I wasn't ready, had to go through a lot of losers I am fond of saying, but I really think I wasn't ready to be where we are now.  I had to grow, change, learn, and appreciate more about life in order to get to this point.

I am dealing with my commitment fears, fear of losing my individuality, fear of being suffocated.  He's been great with all of that and has given me space to just be.  As I hope I am giving him - I don't want to change him - I want him to be who he is.  We both agree that we need to maintain our individuality in order to be able to come together as a couple and be stronger together.  Yes, there is 'us', an identity all it's own, but also 'he' and 'I'.  It's about striking a balance and he gets that. 

We share several things in common - one of them being travel.  We've talked and have begun to plan travels together.  We're discussing what he would like to do, what I would like to do and I believe by satisfying & sharing our individual interests we'll be able to grow a bond during these travels that will be hard to break.  We're starting small but have much grander travel plans to other countries.  One day at a time and hopefully it'll be obvious that we're making the right decisions along the way.

Obviously I'm happy with what I've found.

I don't know where I'm gonna go when the volcano blows...

Made it back to the states after a very long flight from Frankfurt.  Thanks to the volcano in Iceland going off again our flight had to take a southerly route that added 2-hours to our flight to Chicago.  Once again I was asleep before the wheels of the plane left the ground. 

One correction to be made from the last blog (ok, so there were typos, I was buzzing when I wrote it, sue me) that my lovely hostess advised me about.  I'll quote her to get it right:

"It is legal to drink beer and wine here at 14 if you are with your parents. That also includes in restaurants with parents....At 16 you can legally buy beer and wine and drink. At 18, they add hard liquor....That spreads it out a bit and there is alot less binging here when it is not tabu......."

Its so much more practical than our drinking laws. 

Our last day there was in Rothenburg and it was lovely.  We walked a lot, climbed a lot of steps, and took a lot of pictures.  We also shopped a lot but ya'll knew that was gonna happen, right?  There is a wall around this old city and we walked along part of that enjoying the view.  This city is very touristy, as evidenced by the number of tour buses in one of the parking lots.  It is worth seeing for its beauty, abundance of shops and restaurants, and sights.

We went into the Criminal Museum and that was a lot of fun.  So many torture devices on display and facts about laws and courts of the times.  Several floors to this one, definitely worth the price and a nice break from the palace/castle tour spots.  Different and interesting. 

I am a big fan of Christmas ornaments, etc, and so is my hostess, Alison so we had to go into Katy Wolfehardt (spelling?) which also contains a Christmas Museum that we opted not to see.  It's a really cool store.  I like to get small ornaments from places I visit and found some cute items here.

That store is directly across the street from the old tower that Danielle and I climbed to view the entire city.  Now this was a real adventure.  We had to go in through the old church next door and up many stoned steps in a spiral staircase.  Then you go through this doorway into an old room after going through a turnstile.  Four guys were ahead of us as we went through and we all paused before going on.  The guys were out of breath, but we all stopped because of an alarm going off.  It was to limit the number of people going through at one time.  Made since as it's an old place and you can imagine it only holds so many people.  So the guys were gentlemen and let us go up first.  So we start climbing these old wooden steps.  The steps continue to get steeper and the walls narrow.  We get to the next small landing and are greeted by a lady who  says 'two Euro, please'.  So we pay (there was a sign at the turnstile but we didn't see it) and then look to see this ladder.  It is standing nearly straight up and the steps are small and we have big American feet.  So we do it cause we are troopers and we paid for it!  As you climb this vertical ladder and reach the top you have to grasp these metal rings and pull yourself up through the opening, like getting out of a hole in the ground.  You also may miss the sign that says you are only suppose to stay up there for 5-minutes for that 2-Euros.  It was worth it.  The view of the city on all sides was incredible.  The walkway around the steeple is narrow and two can't walk side-by-side.  We make our way around the steeple and had to wait to go back down the ladder because people were coming up.  It's the guys we passed in the room with the turnstile.  The fourth guy is on the ladder but won't come out and one of the others says to him 'you're embarrassing me, map up, those chicks made it up here'.  The man never did come up while we were there, we passed him when we came down.  Coming down that ladder off the steeple was the scarey part.  Straight up and down and you can't see where to put your feet before the ladder actually begins, you just kinda feel for it with your foot and hold on tight.  I'm glad we did it - a challenge met and the view was worth it.  You really could see the whole town.

For the trip to Rothenburg it was just us three girls, me, Alison and Danielle and we enjoyed ourselves.  Indulged in cakes and snacks at a bakery late that afternoon which probably explains why we didn't care about a big dinner and ate light that evening.  We all enjoyed walking the town taking pictures of things that interested us - flowers, doors, doorknobs, hinges, structures. 

Alison got the car up to about 200 Kilometers an hour on the Autobahn on the way home and that was fun.  We took a rest and had to begin the great task of packing up as it was our last night in Germany.  We each were trying to pack and keep it under 50-pounds with wine, glasses, candy (tons of it) and other souvenirs.  Alison has the gadget that weighs your suitcase and it was very handy as we were close to the limits and had to be creative.  Alison is an expert packer and advised us how to pack the wine and glasses with bubble wrap.  I'm happy to report all items made it home without breaking!

Marc was kind enough to get up and drive us to the airport at 4am!  He's wonderful.  We didn't sleep much but were awake enough to appreciate that he got the Audi up to 155MPH on the Autobahn, couldn't go faster because of traffic and construction.  What a thrill!  I loved it.  I had previously called shotgun for this ride.

This was a wonderful vacation.  We visited friends, did some sight seeing and shopping, and most of all relaxed.  It was a great mix.  I got what I wanted in that I saw each place from a local's perspective, and as a traveler and not a typical tourist.  I went to places that a tour bus or guided tour may not know about, saw things that weren't in a guidebook, met wonderful people and saw each place as it really was and not as the marketing machines want to play it. 

England and Germany were my third and fourth countries I've visited this year and it only whetted my appetite to see even more.  All of this was worth working three jobs for nine months.

"I ate the last mango in Paris
Took the last plane out of Saigon
Took the first fast boat to China
And Jimmy there's still so much to be done"  Jimmy Buffett

England to Germany

Our last night in England was spent watching the Morris Dancers at the Black Horse pub in Amberley.  A lovely tradition of dance, music, costumes and pints.  Was warned that if Sid put his hat on your head it was a fertility magic trick - stayed away from Sid.  The costumes were colorful and the dancers wore bells on their bodies - the men at the knees and the women on their shoes.  The tradition dates back to the crusades and was finally written down, thankfully, because during a period of war the dancing ceased and was revived when someone discovered the documents. 

Afterwards we went home to attempt to pack and prepare for our very early flight to Frankfurt, Germany.  Andy and Tracey were so kind to get up that early (in our defense the flight times changed 3x before our departure).  We were able to sleep on the plane since it was not United and we had room!  I was asleep before the wheels left the ground.  Smooth flight, about an hour and a half, no problems.  We were able to clear customs in a fair amount of time and I think the customs agent was hitting on Danielle, but what else is new.  Collected our luggage quickly and began to search for Alison.  Since I had no idea what she looked like I was no help.

We got out of the airport and began the hour plus journey to Prichsenstadt.  Prichsenstadt is on the list of 100 places to see before you die.  It is quaint and lovely and everything you imagine an old world village to be.  Our hosts put us in the guesthouse.  We walked in and on the table were welcome cards attached to bottles of local wine and two wine glasses each.  It is coming home with me!  What a lovely present.  The Glinsboeckel house is 500-years old, three stories high and in the long process of remodel/restoration.  In addition to the guesthouse, Marc's parents live in their own apartment attached to the main house. 

We met their two pigs - Pork Chop and Schnitzel.  Pork Chop is mean and hateful and will be bacon soon.  We also were introduced to Odie the dog they rescued from Poland.  He is adorable and loyal to this family like you wouldn't believe.  The Glinsboeckel family is large and fun.  Two of the children, Ian and Holden gave us a quick tour of the town before the rain started and were excellant tour guides.

We went to a restaurant across the street the first night where I had pork medallions and asparagus with hollandaise sauce for dinner as well as a wine spritzer.  It was very good.  Asparagus is a local product and had been picked from the fields the day before - super fresh.  Germany prides itself on healthly lifestyles, yes it's still possible to eat too much and become fat and lazy, however, there is much encouragement to be active, to eat healthy, fresh food with little preservatives.  That said, yes you can go to a grocery and buy items canned with loads of preservatives but you don't always have to - fresh produce is easily available.

I was impressed by the rolling hills of farmland and vineyards.  I am a big fan of wine and loved seeing the vineyards close up as we did when we drove up to Castell (see pics on Facebook).  My first experience at being this close to an actual vineyard.  The beauty of the hillside and seeing things grow gets me - guess it's those farming roots of mine.

Alison loves to thrift store shop and we went with her to at least three (I lost count) and I have to admit there are some many things I would have been interested in were I living here and had a house.  Alas, I cannot pack everything and bring it home.  Packing to come home will be an issue as it is - I have made many purchases. 

We have seen Wurzburg and learned of the bombings by America in 1945 that destroyed most of the city and nearly killed Marc's dad.  We have seen the Residence where the bishops lived and the Castle on the hill - both lovely but you are not allowed to take pictures :-(  The gardens were picture friendly and it was a lovely day with temps in the upper 70's.

We've dined at the Storch where I had sauerbraten (very good) and potato dumplings (ehhh, too rubbery).  I've had a 1 Euro sandwich while leaving the supermarket named Real (Re-al),  I had bratwurst for lunch with sauerkraut.  I had schnitzel, fries and salad for dinner tonight, very yummy.  Very large German beers, tequilla, Polish vodka and various wines and liquer I can't pronounce.  Drinking is legal here at sixteen, although they can't buy it at that age, 18 is the legal age to purchase it. 

Germans drive on the right side as we do.  They are very practival people and very clean.  Sidewalks are cleaned usually on Saturdays and most places are well kept, just remember the age of some of the places when you look at them. 

The church bells ring every quarter hour but you quickly learn to tune them out.  The Glinsboeckel pigs are quite noisy in the morning when they want their feed and there is an owl that is quite vocal as well, but all-in-all a peaceful place to visit.  We've walked around the town to take photos and it is so easy to get around.  There is a bakery, meat market, bank, general store, etc and no chain or supercenter in sight.  This is an area that Walmart has not taken over - they tried and the laws and customs didn't mesh with the way Walmart treats the employees and locals. 

The guesthouse we are staying in is so adorable and comfortable.  Alison  knows how to make a cozy home.  I've been so lucky to visit both countries and stay with friends and experience these places at a level most tourists won't ever know.  I've had real-life experiences and not what the tourist programs want you to believe is real. 

Now I must rest so that I may be prepared for my last full day in Germany.  We are traveling to Rothenberg  to shop and sight see.  Can't wait!

The English Experience

Left Sunday May 15, 2011 at a wicked early hour to catch the flight from Indy to D.C. Our captain was named Captain Kirk, I am not making this up.  The enterprise it was not, a good flight nonetheless.  From D.C. we flew to London's Heathrow.  Good flight, little turbulence, no lightening strikes, very smooth landing surprised me - expected more of a bounce. 

Waiting on us to clear customs were Tracey and Andy - she with her cowboy boots, suede fringed jacket and cowboy hat with tiny American flags in the band.  All smiles and hugs.  My first time meeting Andy - he's a lovely man.  She did good!  Talked until 2am after arriving at 10pm.  We all slept in a bit, took our time getting ready and then went to Brighton to shop and wander.  We tried West Cornwall Pasty and it was very good.  Looked at the channel from a distance because it was very cool and windy.

Tracey lives in Sompting, West Sussex, also near the channel.  It is a small village and we drove through the countryside seeing cows, horses, sheep, goats, and wild rabbits on the hillsides.  Everything greened up from the Spring.  We visited Stamner House for a moment to gather some papers Andy needed, but didn't go inside, we wandered the church yard looking at the flowers.  For dinner that evening we went to The Juggs - a very old pub with great ambiance.  Had Bishop's Finger ale - not as warm as I thought it would be as the bartender rinsed the glass in cool water first and the tap was kept cool.  I did enjoy it.  I kept thinking of warm beer equaled beer that's been sitting in the sun or a hot car.  Luckily wasn't that hot!  I had a beefburger that was one of the best bar burgers ever. 

Tuesday we were up and out by 11am to visit Hampton Court Palace and Henry the VIII.  Ol' Henry was in residence it turned out and very picky about my standing on his left versus right.  We loved the gardens.  I loved the weapons room and Ol' Henry's large bedchamber with the two rows of curtains around - no witnesses!!!  Henry didn't do any sex tapes his day I tell ya - not with those heavy drapes!  We had a snack in the cafe which boasted its sustainability - environmentally conscious even here.  We had a nice drive back from the palace and I 'dropped off' in the car like a tired child after my outing.  We met Tracey's chiropractor and she got a quick treatment while we chatted with Joan, the office manager.  The English have been very nice to us Americans so far.  During our evening chat we discussed how both of our countries were disliked by the French. 

Tracey has enjoyed playing her country music CD's I burned for her  Her house is so nice and is the perfect size for someone like me.  I love her tastes in decorating.  Danielle is sleeping in Chloe's old room, now a sowing room and I'm in the extra room and quite comfortable.  She had chocolates waiting for us and gifts along with our linens.  Her dog and cat have taken to us - especially Danielle and the cat - the cat loves getting her back scratched.  Danielle took a great photo of Tracey's cowboy boot collection!

Dinner that night was take out - fish 'n chips in paper - the proper way to have it.  Andy and I drove over to Penhill Fisheries in Lancing to pick it up.  I was able to ride in the passenger seat up front - remember they drive on the right over here.  It didn't freak me out or anything but I did feel like there was a big empty space in front of me where the steering wheel should be.  I liked that we were getting food from a local establishment versus some chain.  Burger King and Mc'D's are here but not on our list.  We brought the food home - very hot still in its paper - we ordered smalls and the portions were still large.  One piece of fish but a large piece.  Danielle got a large order of chips and it was monstrous.  No one ate everything.  I am not normally a fish person, but when in Rome, or in the case England.  It was very good and I doubt I get anything at home to touch this - damn sure won't be Long John Silver's - not even close!!!!  I tried ginger beer and we had Jack Daniels Single Reserve while we ate, talked and listened to music.  Very relaxing.  One of my favorite moments so far.

Wednesday (today) was a trip to Marine Park for pictures, walking down the rocky beach to gather a stone from the English Channel for Dakota's collection.  From there we went over to see Tracey's father, he was very nice and is working on a book that I'll be waiting to read.  We went down to George and Dragon Inn for lunch - very good!  More of a restaurant than a pub but quite pleasant inside.  The vegetarian risotto was good and very filling.  More driving back through the countryside heading to Marks & Spencer for some shopping.  Sitting at home now relaxing.  Eating in tonight as we are headed to a pub in Amberley to hear and watch the Morris Dancers - an old English tradition.  I can't wait.  Will also be meeting Tracey's daughter Chloe and some friends.  I expect it to be a good time. 

We'll leave very early for the airport for the next level of our journey to Germany where Alison and family area waiting our arrival.  She has the fridge stocked and waiting in the guesthouse and a friendly argument has begun over English chocolate versus German chocolate.  I am reserving judgement and have an ample supply of English chocolate to compare with the German.  It may be a tie. 

until next time....

The Americans are coming...to England in 1 week!!!!

One week from now I'll be in jolly old England hanging with Tracey, Andy and Danielle.  I asked Tracey to have a bottle of good red wine waiting for our all night girl-talk (sorry, Andy will just have to go to bed and let us do our thing).  We have so much to catch up on.  I don't have to sleep much anyway.

I've watched the news and read the travel warnings.  I'm going anyway - no worries.  It probably means longer lines through security but I've got nothing to worry about as long as they don't take the Splenda and candy I have for Alison and her kids in Germany (2nd half of the trip).

There's been so many ups and downs the last week or so.  Dad's struggling with his amputation wound not healing - not good, but not giving up on it yet.  Mom's gotta go have an ultrasound done for her gallbladder.  This has been bothering her for awhile but also comes after my abdominal ultrasound revealed that I have floating gallstones.  Lucky me.  Turns out it is one more thing that runs in the Cordray family. 

The news that really freaked me a bit was that my left thyroid looked swollen.  I was told last year the left thyroid was gone so how it can be swollen?  Turns out it can regenerate.  That is freaky.  So is my cherry gonna regenerate?  Just sayin'...could have some fun with that one.

Had my supervisor at the bank submit a request for intermittent FMLA due to dad's health and taking my sick time to be with him, just a technicality to protect my position. Got a phone call from that department asking when my leave began.  I explained I've not been on leave.  She says I'm catagorized as being on leave since April 27.  She asked if I could get into my systems at work and if I got my last paycheck.  I said yes.  She said I shouldn't have because their records say I'm not suppose to be there!  Ok, don't fuck with my paycheck - so we have to fix this pronto cuz sista has to have that check before leaving the country!!!  I passed on the detail and instructions to the super to fix so hoping on the 13th I've got a payroll deposit or I'm gonna flip out on the bank.

Worked the Mini-Marathon this weekend.  Usually I volunteer with the 500 Festival for the kids day activities, since I won't be here that day and I had friends doing the mini I volunteered as Crowd Management, which basically consisted of standing there pointing people in the correct direction after the finish line.  Great experience to see the various levels of physical conditioning come through the line.  Respect for the firefighters, police officers, and military members who went through the entire race in full gear.  Loved seeing the guys running in tuxedos and sneakers, wigs, beer drinking teams, groups running/walking for causes and in memory of fam/friends.  Many thank yous received from the participants.  Love the event - to see so many out and involved, to see how this city comes together for these large events is amazing. 

I truly love volunteering.  I'm not the one who's going to go read to old people in the nursing home or hospitals.  Not my calling.  My volunteer arena consists of  sports and arts.  One of the great highs this week was the interview for the VIP Lounge Coordinator internship for the Oranje festival September 17.  I volunteered for this event last year and immediately knew I wanted to play a bigger role.  Adam and Ryan will be celebrating 10-years of the fest this year, a great accomplishment.  This event would be huge on my resume and I told them so. 

I also volunteered last week for the Mutt Strut - the Indy Humane Society's fundraiser at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.  Love this event.  I also asked how I can be more involved next year and possibly on the organizing committee.  I'm an animal person and believe in what they do.  This is another great event to have on a resume. 

I actually created a volunteer resume to document all I have done the last few years.  It is a big help in that it shows I'm not just a banker, not pigeon-holed into roles.  There is so much more to me. What I really want to do is kinda get more involved with a couple of these events and drop some of the smaller ones - 'cause I can't do 'em all folks and I know it.

At the Art Bank Friday night I was talking to a lady who lives here in the hood and is part of the Discover Fountain Square group who was trying to recruit me to help with the artist events.  I've submitted an info request for it.  I have so much on my plate but I like what the artists have done in this area - they have really saved some of the old buildings, made the area a much better place to live.  This lady (can't remember her name) was so ready for any amount of time I can give them - she was excited because I am involved in so many things in the city already. 

Was also excited this week by the confirmation test that concluded my sterilization procedure worked.  I have not shared this news with everyone as there are those that don't understand my decision, who don't know me well enough to know that I am completely confident in this decision.  I have also had some comments about being sure, what if this, what if that, oh, it's a big decision, etc.  I made the right decision.  As I told one male friend, this is very liberating.  I've struggled so long with people's expectations of me, what I feel I have to do and what I want to do that this time there was no need to consult or gather opinions - this had to be all my decision and I was at a point where I could make it with great thought, decisiveness, and not have regrets that some would.  You have to know yourself pretty well and what you want.

I still want a solid relationship in my life - but it doesn't have to be from having a child.  I know I want some level of TLC given back to me.  I've done enough caregiving to my family that I know I want to receive some too and from a source outside my family.  Having a baby is very rewarding and a fulfilling experience for a lot of people but I don't see that situation giving me what I need.  And then there's the age factor - I'd be in my 60's when a kid entered college! 

And there's the issue of how I've gone my entire adult life embracing my identity, fearing losing that in a marriage, loving my freedom, not wanting to be controlled, that all is a part of that decision.  See people need to know themselves.

Theater season is winding down for the summer, one night left there to work until the fall.  Pacers season is over but I'll catch a few concerts selling t-shirts, like I did Saturday for the Bob Seger show.  Man that was some work!  Busy, busy, busy.  Loved it.  Can make some good bank those nights.

The week ahead is expected to bring news on the Oranje internship, the Pragmatic show at Rockhouse Cafe, dinner with my peeps, the Jason Aldean concert (treating mom to admission to the Rock Star club pre-show), tickets to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for practice, old car show, lunch and garage passes, and most importantly packing for VACATION!!!!

countdown begins...

Danielle posts on my Facebook wall that the countdown for our trip to England & Germany has begun.  It doesn't seem possible but it is less than three weeks away now!  I've not scrap booked and organized everything from Greece yet and this one is here already.  Time truly does fly when you are having fun.  It's all good though, really it is. 

I was feeling reflective about my life today.  As my friend Liz says I've been living in fast forward.  I don't regret a thing.  I've made some tough decisions, I've traveled down roads that I was unfamiliar with and opened doors just to see what's on the other side.  I've put myself in position to receive opportunities and act upon them.  Life has been changing fast and in some ways not at all.  For those that think their best years are behind them I say you're wrong, it's what you make of today and pay forward to tomorrow that counts. 

There's a line in a Tim McGraw song that goes something like "...if you're gonna run with me it's gonna be a wild ride..."  I'm not boring.  A man once said to me that other men couldn't keep up with me.  I'm sure he'd say the same if he saw me now.  I don't expect anyone to keep up with me.  Let me do my thing.  My life is kinda crazy, too busy at times, and overwhelming.  I wouldn't change a thing - I've met some great people, had some new experiences, learned a lot about the world and myself.  I've reconnected with people from the past, made connections with people from today and I'm finding myself in all of this madness.  I'm probably more comfortable in my own skin now than I ever was.

I want someone to know that I don't expect this all to last.  Life's cycles, ups and downs, pick a phrase, will come back around and there will come a time when I'm sitting around wondering what there is to do.  My world contracts every so often, now is the expansion period and I just go with it.  One day my world will shrink again and the memories, the laughter, the camaraderie I form now will carry me through those days.

"...soak it all in, it's a game you can't win, enjoy the ride..."  Zac Brown

Time flies when we're having fun...

It seems like Greece was a dream...barely a month has gone by and I can't believe it.  I'm counting down to the next adventure.  May 15 Danielle and I head to England to visit with Tracey and then we fly to Germany to visit Alison.  This all depends on Dad getting out of the hospital.  He's dealing with circulation issues and will most likely lose his toes on his right foot.  Scarey stuff - if you're diabetic do what you are advised to do and take care of yourself! 

Been super busy as always with the three jobs, school and socially.  Also volunteered for the Women's Final Four here in Indianapolis.  It was a great experience.  I find volunteering very rewarding on many levels.  I was able to grab t-shirts and basketballs for the kids.  It was a good event for the city - one of the things we do well here is host sporting events.  Hoping to add more volunteer activity to my resume this year.

Met someone new before the trip to Greece and that has been an adventure in itself.  May have made a mistake that I hope is forgiven and we can continue.

Highs and lows  Earlier the same day we found out dad would be hospitalized we lost my Aunt Teddy to heart failure.  I didn't get to see her often but she was a character and family is family no matter where they are.  She's now with my Uncle Bob laughing it up I'm sure.

Have some great friends who've seen me through this week of grief and problems.  I'm very lucky and I know it.

Walking on the 16th in the Susan G Komen breast cancer walk. Going to see Thirty Seconds to Mars in Champagne, IL next Sunday the 17th.  I'm excited about seeing someone new.  Of course I've been out for my monthly visit to see Pragmatic play.  Anyone on my Facebook can find the link to the band or look them up on Reverb Nation.  Great bunch of guys and their better halves are cool as well.

Until next report...

Journey complete

In retrospect I should have sprung for the mobile broadband card instead of relying on free wifi - that wasn't free (most places wanted you to purchase something, not a big deal) and in some cases a risk to my systems as my Facebook was hacked by someone in Switzerland.  Oh well.  Lesson learned.

I left off while we were in Rhodes.  We had such a great experience there.  We had a cab driver named Christos who took us on private tour of Lindos and dropped us off at the top of the old city wall.  He was entertaining, informative, had a great sense of humor and we felt perfectly comfortable with him.  The island is beautiful and I would love to go back.  I found that each island had a distinct personality.  Christos took us to places that either the large tour buses wouldn't/couldn't stop or he got us there after they had gone so we had more space and privacy to observe and take it all in.

Crete could have been better.  My professor required the class to do a specific tour in Heraklion and the tour guide who was on our bus was not great.  She was very monotone, talked too fast at times, was repetitive in an effort to be understood.  I believe she was trying to do the best she could.  Between her and the site itself - it was all underwhelming after being at Ephesus.  The site in Crete is older and has great historical value but isn't as large or recovered as Ephesus.  The site at Lindos, Rhodes was better too.  Had we seen Crete first and built up to Ephesus it would have been better.

That same evening we pulled into Santorini.  Too many clouds to get great shots but interesting all the same, so many islets.  We had to use tender boats to get to shore because the cruise ship couldn't pull in - no dock for it and shallow waters.  In fact, there was only one place to drop anchor at all.  It took over an hour for our group to get on a tender boat and to shore, eating away our time on Santorini.  We managed to get to shore and had a choice of riding a donkey up the hill, taking the tram/cable car up the hill, or walking up the hill on the same trail the donkey took.  We were advised not to take the donkey downhill because they like to go really fast downhill and are a safety risk.  We opted for the tram/cable car.  Kind of a scary ride, not unlike a ride at the theme parks.  Worth the journey.  We had time to hit a few shops and we watched what we could see of the sunset through the clouds.  My impression of Santorini is that this is the place you go to watch the sunsets while sitting in some Taverna, you play on the beaches, maybe do some water sports, wander around with no place to go in particular.  This is a chill out destination. 

As we were meeting our group from IUPUI for review and disembarkation procedures, those of us staying on in Athens through Friday evening were invited to meet at the Athens Cypria Hotel for dinner at 7:30pm.  Alex's parents made the arrangements and we all met that evening 

During the daylight hours Sheena, Danielle and I opted for the Hop On, Hop Off tour bus recommended by Alex's mom.  It was like $18 Euros for a 24-hour pass.  We did not optimize all of our options - we were just too tired. I have to say it was worth it because we still got to see a few things on our way to the Parthenon.  Going to the Parthenon is equal to going to the Grand Canyon or seeing the White House - it's awe inspiring.  The surrounding area you get dropped off at is a park setting all around. A 'licensed' tour guide tried to get us to hire her for 50 Euros - after she saw me pay the entrance fee with a 50 - and we declined.  We just wanted to walk around, take it all in, take lots of pictures and just enjoy the beautiful weather.  We can look up the details on line.  After the tour guide experience in Crete I was over tour guides.  Still not exactly sure how long we spent there but we took our time, sat down here and there to observe.  It really is incredible. 

Back to the square because we were just too tired and hungry.  We stopped at Nikis Place for a light snack and found it very pleasant.  We wandered around a bit more, found Alex's parents who confirmed dinner that night.  So we get back to the hotel for a brief rest and get up to refresh for dinner.

We all met in the lobby and we had a good number of students with us, the parents and the professor.  So they led the way and we made a wrong turn so the ten-minute walk became 20+, but hey, its part of the journey.  It was all so worth it.  We went to Filistron for dinner.  Our reservation was for 2nd floor balcony dining where we could look out at the Parthenon and the Super Moon that night.  It was an incredible view.  The Parthenon is prettier at night from a distance than during the day.  The food was fantastic too - best we had had all week.  The cruise ship food is decent and will keep you going but not great.  The other cafes we tried were all good, but Filistron was superior.  It was a wonderful way to finish the week.

We slept in the next morning before we had to depart in the afternoon.  Journey home wasn't bad, long, but no really bad.  Lufthansa provides more amenities than United and has more leg room.  The place was struck by lightening somewhere over Chicago/Northen Indiana.  That made most of us jump.  It hit on the wing on our side of the plane, was extremely loud and the flash was huge and red.  In all my years of flying that was a first.

Have resumed most of my pre-vacation duties but my mind continues to wander back to Greece and I remember the motion of the ship all too well.  It makes me want to be back on the water.  I refused to admit to jet lag at first but it was futile.  Had I been able to take another day or two to recover before returning to work but can't waste those precious vacation days.  Next up is England and Germany to see Tracey and Alison.  I'm excited as there is so much more I want to see in Europe - I've got a taste for it now. 

Pics from ship and Turkey

It takes so long to upload but here are a few shots from the ship and Turkey.  Beautiful country.  We are sitting in a cafe in Rhodes, in the old city with the walls around it.  We've toured the Palace and I'm in love with the mosaic tiling I find everywhere.

Sheena rode a donkey up the hill to the Acropolis in Lindos on Rhodes.  Rhodes is greek for roses.  It's about 70 degrees here and just beautiful.  Our ships are the start of the tourists season so there aren't any crowds. 

We are waiting on our pizzas then we head back to the ship.

love to all,
Rene

Turkey and Patmos

Day two:  Turkey and Patmos.  Both beautiful places.  We were able to go to the ancient ruins of Ephusus and it was so awesome.  To see where St Paul spoke and was imprisoned, where Virgin Mary lived in solitude on the mountainside, and where Cleopatra and Marc Anthony walked down the marbled avenue was so incredible.  I'm still having that 'I can't believe I'm here' feeling.

Patmos is so beautiful.  The weather has been just wonderful after some morning fog.  Cool at night but beautiful skies.  Patmos is home to the monestary and tomb of John the Baptist.  We climbed like a million stairs today and Sheena is dealing with the pain but feels it was so worth it.  When we got to the top of the monestary you could see most of the island and the surrounding islets.  Amazing views.

Our taxi driver insisted he could get five us of in the car for $35 Euro round trip from the dock.  He did.  Sheena and Danielle got very close today - more than they ever thought they could.  Danielle became the airbag, of which  I said it was better than being an old bag.  I'm sure Michael our taxi driver thinks we are a bunch of crazy Americans.  I asked if he was married and he took it as flattery luckily cause he thought I was hitting on him (he was cute!) but I was just trying to see if he understood women (probably not).

This cruise is the first of the season to many of these islands and we have been greeted with music, dancing, flowers and sweet treats.  The shops and cafes are happy to see us as tourism is a major source of income for all of them. 

I can't attach photos yet as there is a problem with internet access and time I've had to do it.  I promise we are taking tons!

When asked how I liked Turkey today I said I love it and I was told, well why don't you stay.  I said I have no money are you going to take care of me?  No offers on that let me tell ya!

There are a lot of stray animals on these islands and that was bothersome at first but most are well fed by the shops and tourists.  One thing about Greece and Turkey and these cruise ships here - no wash cloths.  Someone tell Ashlee to bring her own when she comes in May.  We are making do - we're all resourceful, it's just another cultural difference between Americans and the rest of the world. 

Tomorrow is 10 hours in Rhodes.  We're taking a tour and then roaming and relaxing after that one.  Hope to get back on soon.

Rene

Notes on the Journey

No problems to report on any of the flights, which is always good news.  Everything was pretty much on time or early.  Had a good tail wind Indy to Jersey, we would have been running late but the wind put us there 10 minutes early.  Had a relaxing sit down lunch at Chili's in Newark airport. 

Had to go back through security at Newark to get to the gate to fly to Frankfurt.  My lucky day!  Got the full body x-ray where the pervs in the room in the bowels of the airport can see me and I got patted down by a very nice lady.  She asked if I wanted to go someplace out of public view, my reply, as long as I don't have to get naked folks can watch, I am not shy.

Flew Lufthansa Airlines from Jersey to Frankfurt, Germany.  On the monitors you could watch the progress of the flight and it gave details of cruising altitude (39,000 ft), speed (600 MPH) and time remaining to your destination.  You could also watch movies for free - I would not have paid, believe me.

Couldn't help myself - when we flew over Liverpool, England I was thinking Beatles!  Then when we were over France, well, wine was on mind, what else?!  Speaking of which, they served free wine on the plane!  I was a good girl and only had one very small cup of Merlot.  It wasn't really that good - Deano needs to talk to them about wine!

We were fed dinner and breakfast.  Had to save Danielle from the food as strawberries were served each time and she's allergic.  All I can say about the food is that it is equal to hospital food.  The cheese and breads were good, the snack mix okay, but that's about it. 

Slept some but was not really comfortable - had some device on the floor so Danielle and I lost leg room.  We're in our hotel in Athens now resting up and catching up.

Driving in from the airport to the hotel I was reminded of Florida a lot - the palm trees, grafitti, and not the nice parts of Florida apparently.

We meet the rest of the class and professor at 9am tomorrow at the port.  I'll be raring to go with the camera and taking notes.  Danielle has already taken some shots, however, she's asleep and I don't want to wake her to download those.  I know I promised picks and you will eventually see them.

Reporting from Athens Cypria Hotel,
Trucker's Daughter 

One day and a wake up

OK, I'm stealing my title from Mr Vino who used that line while waiting on his trip to San Fran for the Zap event, but I liked it!  Waking up sounds so positive especially when you are going on what you hope will be a trip of a lifetime or at the very least a really great time with friends and family.

The very long 'to do' list is down to just packing and organizing my belongings.  A major feat for me.  Helping out a not so old friend and a new friend this week with some marketing.  Hoping the universe is kind to both of them.  Support local businesses!!!!

I can't wait now to be on that ship, feeling the waves rock me to sleep each night.  I love being on the water. It relaxes me and I need that right now, along with a neck rub:)

The weather in Greece will be at the beginning of Spring phase so not swimsuit weather but if I get the chance I'm at least dipping a toe in the Aegean Sea, may never get there again.  I want to walk on the beaches and listen to the water move.  I want to catch some sunsets and possible a sunrise since we have two early calls on the cruise.  I'll be glued to the ship's railing watching the islands come and go.  No seasickness for me!  Two Caribbean cruises and various boat rides in Dale Hollow and other places and no problems.  I am a water sign after all.

This will be the furthest away from home I will have ever been.  I'm not afraid, not at all :)  Just a notation in my trip around the sun.   I realize how lucky I am to be on this journey.  I must acknowledge my friend Michelle in Texas who is going through Chemo for stage 2 lung cancer.  She inspires me with her courage and honesty in dealing with her illness.  I won't be sad for her - she needs only positive thoughts and prayers and love to get her through.  I will remember how lucky I am to go on this trip and be grateful my health allows me to do so.  Someday soon she'll be walking on the beach with her wonderful man who is seeing her through all of this ordeal.  Love to both of them.

'Roam if you want to, roam around the world...'

PS.  Nawal - I used spellcheck...hehehe

One week until Greece

The final countdown.  This time next week I'll by flying over the Atlantic Ocean on my way to Frankfurt, Germany connecting to Athens, Greece with my companions for the trip Danielle and Sheena.  In some ways it doesn't seem real yet and I know it is because I have documentation to prove it. 

The professor gave us our cabin assignments yesterday.  He described some of the expectations including two mandatory excursions - one in Turkey and one in Crete.  Rough assignments, huh?  Require us to take these tours of historic sites to see ancient ruins in lands we've never explored. 

Packing remains to be done and may be the biggest challenge.  I'm up to it though and have been working on a plan.  For those that have traveled with me before, such as my twenty plus trips to Las Vegas, ya know I'm not a light packer.  I've been stranded too many times and I do require clean underwear.  This time I have to be creative and get everything into one suitcase and not exceed the weight limit, plus leave room for souvenirs - 'cause let's face it, I'm shopping! 

I have to admit shopping isn't a big priority but I have to bring something back for certain people in my life.  The professor asked us Friday what we expect/what we want out of this experience.  I want to interact with the natives, so to speak, I want to eat Greek food made by Greeks and not American's trying to imitate the real food.  Not that the Greek food in Indy is bad - good restaurants out there - but I'm told the food will be different.  I want to experience that myself.

I want to take in as much as my senses will allow.  Danielle is great with the camera and she'll do a fine job of capturing the scenes and faces.  I'll do what I can to document and remember the details that make this trip so awesome.

Mr. Whippet was teasing me yesterday about taking out life insurance on me because of the concern for my safety.  He's referring to the situations in the Middle East and some issue he heard on the news about violence in Greece, a story I did not hear.  He said he would probably just be losing money - he wouldn't collect on the life insurance.  I said 'damn straight, baby, I'm a survivor'.  He's not getting rid of me that easily.  He'll miss me - just won't admit it.

I so wish I could bring more people with me - I keep thinking so many would enjoy this trip. 

Life's a journey, not a destination - enjoy it all the way wherever you are.

Two weeks until Greece

This blog has been created to document my trip to Greece for my Cruise Management course at IUPUI.  It also serves as a means of communication with folks back at home.  Phone calls are too expensive on this trip and I'm on a budget. 

Hopy you are entertained and maybe learn a little about traveling outside of your local area. 

This trip is something I've worked really hard for the last few months at my three jobs.  It marks a destination off of my travel with list which never seems to end.  If you don't have a travel wish list make one and get packin'!

My parents instilled a love of traveling in me.  Obviously the title relates part of the story.  Dad made sure we knew how to read a map (something that existed long before GPS and is far more reliable).  Mom gave me my curisioty and 'let's check it/we may be turned around but we're not lost' attributes.  Both have always been supportive of going out and doing things when I have the opportunities such as this.  I know they'll be following along as well.

Until next time....