Harmony's Travels

Tuesday dinner

2012-02-08T12:41:00.000-08:00

Detoxing for a few days. My liver needs a break. Well, that sounds more extreme than it really is. I am taking a few days off for reflection and a true return to yoga. I purchased a 50 pack and believe that that was my best option instead of signing up for a month to month membership. I start off with a good intention of going to class 5 times a week. By the third month, typically, I find a way to decrease the 3-4 times a week (not five, see) to maybe once a week. That $8 class due to frequenting studio turns into a $40 class. It always happens this way for me. I do enjoy yoga but I find myself in a rut when the routine class stays the same. I feel obligated to go since my unlimited pass is in effect. Vicious cycle. I think the package will help me get through the ruts and motivate me to go when I want to go instead of feeling like I have to go if that makes sense.
I went to a portfolio tasting on Monday and fell in love with a few of the Barolo's. Divine. Afterwards, I arranged to go running with my running partner on Tuesday. I had a feeling that I would be backing out of the running date and I did. Only after Jonny texted me to tell me that he was on his way to Phoenix. I wanted to treat him to dinner, finally, for his birthday. We have tried to make this happen and somehow it always derails. I was determined to make it happen. Plus, I bought new shoes that wreaked havoc on my feet. I forgot how challenging it can be to break in a new pair of shoes. Ouch!
Jonny and I walked up to the light rail to head into Phoenix. Honestly, best way to get around the city. I love the addition of the light rail. I wanted a glass of wine before getting on the train. We walked up to a wine bar and of course, it was closed for a private function. Denied. Bummed but I had a back up in place. There is a lovely mexican restaurant with chambord margaritas. We had one and then made our way to the train.
Forty-five minutes later, we reached our destination. Sat at the outdoor bar and began the foodie venture with parmesean risotto. Delightful. With brussel sprouts, cippilino onions, parmesean and pancetta. I loved it. Didn't want to share it, honestly. I knew Jonny wanted a steak and so we followed the risotto with hangar steak and a quinoa romaine salad. I enjoyed the steak but wanted him to enjoy his birthday dinner. I devoured the quinoa salad.
We drank wine and chitchatted with the bartender. Eventually, he mentioned that he had just moved from Denver. Immensely nostaglic we all talked about the neighborhoods in the city. I miss walking around the mile high city and stopping into random eateries and finding new neighborhood gems. A trip to Denver in the spring seems likely.
I am so glad that I chose to check out the restaurant again. I had went there for lunch and had a lovely meal but this time, I had opportunity to explore more of the menu and truly take in the space. Loved it.
The only downside was the ride back to Tempe. Long, monotonous and boring. Really long. Still, it is the best way to tour the city. It gave us lots of time to discuss the meal and try to go to another bar in Phoenix. Unfortunately, that one closed at ten during the week. Another time.
I am taking a break from wine. Increasing the yoga factor and running, too. Too bad there isn't another yoga class that I can attend before heading into work today. There is always tomorrow.

Monday Memory

2012-02-07T01:46:00.000-08:00

Lovely memory. Belize. A year ago. View from the hotel. Daily, Shari and I would retire to the rooftop hot tub and watch the sunset. Beautiful.
This year, we are visiting San Diego and Temecula. Maybe Carlsbad, too. Still uncertain on that fact. Originally, I thought I would only have a few days off to explore California. I reconsidered. Why shorten my trip with Shari to work one shift?
I cannot wait to see a San Diego sunset. Til then, I will enjoy this memory.

friday thoughts

2012-02-03T14:58:00.000-08:00

Upcoming ventures. It always goes back to that. I envisioned a trip to San Diego, tomorrow, told myself it was going to happen and believed it. Until, I remembered the super bowl is Sunday. Meaning, I must go into work earlier than anticipated. I would have to leave San Diego by 8ish to make it happen.
Not much of a trip and so I am postponing it until next week--I think. I really want to check out a few eateries and the ocean is always inviting. I looked at spots in Temecula to stay and know that wherever Shari and I end up, it will be fun filled and an excellent way to celebrate the anniversary this year. She flies out Saturday and will be here thru Thursday. I hope to spend three days in California and two in Phoenix. There might be a brief stopover in Havasu, too, to see the movie guy--aka--RV guy. I am interested in seeing how he is doing and catching up, too. Havasu is on the way back, kind of.
There are other trips that i see in my future and know will happen. I enjoy travel, seeing friends, dining, wine and catching up as noted in this blog. I love spending time with friends and find myself, this year, in a quandry. I have some priority travel and that demands my attention and other travel that I would like to pursue. I remain uncertain as to how much time I can take off is all. I would love to do more but think I will be limited to a certain degree. I suppose the solution is that people can visit me. The summers really aren't that hot...it's a dry heat...or so they say.
Really, I recognize I can only make myself happy. There will always be some level of disappointment of not having enough time to spend with others. Also, my idea of travel does not always line up with others' idea of vacation. Sure it would be great to go to Denver in June, but there is a trip to Chicago or a marathon in San Diego that take precedence for me. It's all about balance.
I know that it will all work out in the end. Sure, I miss San Diego tomorrow, but there is always next week. Enjoy your weekend. Since I am delaying my trip to Cali, I see a yoga class/hike in my Saturday routine. I just want to get out and enjoy the sunshine.

Reflecting on Jean's visit

2012-02-02T09:36:00.000-08:00

It's been two weeks since Jean's visit, the mexican adventure and pedicure. It seems like yesterday, really, that Jean and I were drinking bloody mary's in Rocky Point. Fun times, indeed.
I have been preoccupied with work and as a result, neglected blogging. I realized, this morning, that I made some mention of recounting the mexican adventure in a recent post and then it hang there. Til now.
I have driven to Rocky Point, multiple times, in the last year. Jean had not been there since 2000. So the drive down was interesting as we encountered smaller and smaller towns along the route. I stopped at the duty free store before crossing the border. There was one car in front of us. I pull up and wait for the questions. I never know what I am going to be asked. Questions range from--why are you going to Rocky Point? Who are you visiting? Why does your friend own a bar in Mexico? How long are you staying?
This time, however, the agent bid us adieu and we were on our way. I drove straight to Jonny's bar. Sonoita is a small border town an hour from Rocky Point. There are numerous shops, stands and gas stations as you drive through the town. I have stopped a few times to check out the souvenir factor and eaten at a taco stand, too. Yes, I do enjoy fare from stands.
Anyways, we drive to Jon's bar. Hug, small talk and he ushered us inside so that he could attend to some other work related tasks. That night we spent the majority of it at Jon's bar. Shared shrimp caribe and a few other appetizers while hanging out with Jonny. He is the king of shots. I never do shots unless I am spending time with him. I prefer drinking wine or beer. The shot factor does not accompany wine very well.
Regardless, we close the bar down, early. The next morning, we wake up and it is beautiful outside. Jon lives two blocks from the ocean and the view is stunning. I envision a walk on the beach.
I wanted to show Jean more of the town and so we venture out to the Malecon area and check out some of the souvenir shops, restaurants, bars and of course, the beach. Few tourists were in town and so we had little problem with parking. The vendors were a bit much, though. Afterwards, we returned to Jon's house and walked on the beach. The beach always inspires reflection for me. I could have spent more time on the beach, but we had arranged to meet up with Jonny, Teddy and Donna--some of Jon's friends.
Jonny drove us to Cholla Bay, Pelican Point and eventually, we had a cocktail at JJ's. Lazy day spent checking out sights and toasting sunset at Sandy Beach. Relaxing vacay and fun or so I would like to think. I miss spending time with Jean. She is impulsive, spontaneous and friendly. I swear, she always knows everyone at the bar/restaurant within a half hour.
Saturday, we woke up, and both craved fish tacos. Actually, I had my heart set on a burrito from this one stand that I frequent while in Mexico. Delightful carne asado burrito that had my name on it. Unfortunately, they were not open on Saturday. What?
I knew of a place that had fish tacos and it was conveniently located on the way out of town. We walk in and Jean ordered two fish tacos. They were breaded and since she has a gluten allergy, we tried to communicate that we wanted two tacos without breading. They make two more tacos that have breading on it.
I ate two of the tacos and Jean had a cole slaw taco. Too funny. She took lemons and made lemonade of sorts. I drove us back to Phoenix with one stop in Ajo. A bloody mary sounded delicious. A little challenging to find one in the old mining town. The bowling alley provided a bloody and people watching. Had we had longer, I think, I would have suggested a quick game of bowling. Why not? Could have been an excellent memory. That and the 70's feel of the place and music from a lounge.
The last night of Jean's visit was spent in Phoenix. We dined with Jan and Tom and then retired to Tempe for the evening. Opened some wine and chilled for the night. It was fitting. Tom wanted to do a bonfire but I knew if that happened, I would wake up in the west valley. Bonfires at their house tend to last hours. And, I am selfish. I wanted to hang out with Jean. I wanted to reminisce on all of our stories without having to explain the significance to others. What is funny to us isn't necessarily funny to others.
I think this visit was exactly what she needed. A brief vacation to the beach. Laughter. Joy and some shots--darn that Jonny~

Monday Memory

2012-01-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

Sonoma. One of my favorite places to visit. Especially with these two ladies and Megan. Megan took the photo; otherwise, she would be included in the Monday Memory.
I adore this photo of me, Sara Jo and the Goddess. It is a lovely memory. We met in San Francisco, drove to Napa, ran the Healdsburg 1/2 Marathon and toured wine country the following days. Delightful.
I called Sara and mentioned how we needed another girls' weekend and she agreed. After talking with her, I texted Lindsay and said--what is the plan this year? She had her sights set on Chicago to run a race and go to a Cub's game. I am all for both activities and only needed to secure the weekend we would be heading to Chicago. It will happen and it will be in June. Perfect.
Chicago, here we come....well, in June, at least. Til then, I am hopeful to visit them in Denver or host them in Phoenix. Must find couch and asap. Maybe an air mattress could suffice?
Either way, enjoy the beginning of your week. I have a yoga class calling, work (of course), wine tasting and an idea that I will be heading to the ocean at the end of the week. I would like to check out a few eateries that will be worthy for Shari and my visit at the end of February. Plus, the ocean is always welcoming. I thought about it and this woman I work with said, you should always take th opportunity to travel when it presents itself. I definitely agree.

Jean's visit

2012-01-27T08:50:00.000-08:00

Calm. This is my fourth day of no coffee and surprisingly, hot tea, is a lovely replacement. I feel lighter than when I wake with coffee if that makes sense. And, I survived the full on caffeine headache which typically follows my departure from coffee. I just wanted a break and I know that that first cup of coffee (when I return) will be inspired. I can almost taste it.
I think I got on the hot tea train after spending five days with Jean--aka, poodle, while in Mexico. She stopped drinking coffee three years ago and drinks tea instead. I envied her decision while trying to craft my own coffee at Jonny's condo. His french press broke. Mental note to self, must bring new french press to Mexico or a coffee pot for my next visit unless I am able to sustain the hot tea morning wake up.
Anyways, I feel awesome and am rested. I think I am actually caught up on sleep for once and I have went to yoga three consecutive days. I love this trial period offered by the studio in Phoenix. For twenty dollars, I have unlimited access to the studio for two weeks. It's ideal. This way, I can check out classes at different points of the day to see what works best for me. I prefer the vinyasa flow series and see a noon class, regularly, in my future. They offer a bikram with flow intertwined which means the class is an hour and twenty minutes. I liked the class and hope to return but I like wrapping things up within an hour. The additional twenty minutes just means more sweat and adds thirty minutes to my drive back to the east valley while covered in sweat. Yuck!
Side note, my brother-in-law, Jeremy, is performing his dissertation tonight. I am sad that I will be unable to make it. This piece of work will be extraordinary--I know it. It's taken him awhile to complete the task, but I am sure that it is a true piece of art. Inspired. Beautiful. Accomplished. He is a rock star~
I began this post today with the intention of writing about Jean's visit to Phoenix. Need to return to that goal.
She arrived after sitting three hours on the tarmac at the Seattle airport. Yes, she departed during the crazy snow storm last week. Had her flight been Thursday she definitely would not have made it out. However, she did make it and immediately, I drove her to one of my favorite spots in Phoenix. We drank cocktails, ordered brussel sprouts and a beet salad and quickly returned to our normal flow of conversation. I met Jean while in college and despite the fact we see each other, rarely, we have the ability to pick right up from the last time we saw each other. She is a genuine friend and I am extremely grateful for her in my life. I have seen her more often the last six years. I flew out to Minnesapolis in 2006 and spent a few days with her and her family. Then, there was a road trip in 2007, a wine trip in 2008, a girl's weekend in 2009 with Michaela and Shari, and now this year. She sends the occasional christmas card and we always manage to talk during the year.
We have a solid foundation of friendship is all I am saying and it is easy to hang out with her. I called Jan and she agreed to meet up with us. They met this past summer on a trip to Oregon that Jan accompanied me. It was natural to invite Jan along.
From the parlor, we headed to Tempe to enjoy the last of happy hour at another wine bar that I frequent. We called Jan's husband, Tom, to see if he wanted to join us at the happy hour place. He didn't. He wanted to dine at Los Dos which is closer to their house and not an option for us on Wednesday. We had dinner plans with some of Jean's friends and I was trying to figure out the best way to get my car home and Jean to the restaurant on time. Jan offered to follow me home, pick us up and join us for dinner. Seemed like an easy fix.
I forgot to mention that Jean's friend lives in the west valley and had asked Jean if she could stay at my place instead of drive home. I would be all for that if I had a sofa. I don't. I couldn't envision the three of us in my queen bed and so I told Jean to let her friend know that I had a yoga mat if she wanted to spend the night. Then, I felt guilty. I knew this woman was older than me and I didn't want to make her that uncomfortable on my floor so I decided I would sleep on the floor, begrudgingly. I brought it up to Jean, again, that the sleeping arrangements would be as such. I inquired--maybe her husband could pick her up or join us for dinner. Hoping that her husband would pick her up. The prospect of the floor was not that inviting for me.
When everything was said and done, Kirk, joined us for dinner. It worked out well and dinner was fantastic. We enjoyed a few bottles of wine and reminisced how we all knew Jean and why we moved to Phoenix. I think Sue was interested in hanging out with us after dinner but that drive home is long. Since Jean and I were not ready to call it a night, we stopped at another tap room and had a beer. This establishment is close to my house--very close--and Jean wanted to get a cab. Incredulous but I wanted her to be happy and so we found a cab. Immediately, we both noted how it reeked of vomit. It was overwhelming. We gagged while opening the window and sought fresh air. The cabbie started incessantly spraying air freshener which made it all worse. All, I could think was, why didn't we walk? It's only five blocks.
The next morning we both laughed at our decision to take the cab. That is how our mini adventure began. We managed to get pedicures, stop by my job to enjoy a bloody mary and then I drove us to Mexico. From here, debauchery ensued. I will reflect on the mexican adventure later....

yoga studio found

2012-01-25T14:04:00.000-08:00

Most excellent experience. I arrive early to communicate that I am intererested in attending the class and that it is my first time at the studio. The instructor asks me if I have done yoga in the past. My response, I moved from Denver. She goes, oh, core power.
Yes, I was a member of core power and so we chit chatted their studio, a bit, and she told me that her daughter lived in Denver. Ah, no wonder you are familiar with core power. Anyways, she offers to set my mat up for me while I fill out some paperwork. She asks if I want to be near the door for air flow and I am like--sure, I can handle this.
The class was a mix of traditional bikram poses and the vinyasa flow. She incorporated a few ending poses which confused me. We were approaching the hour mark and I noticed a few people gathering their things and heading out. I laid there and thought, I thought this class was an hour and twenty minutes....must have looked at the schedule wrong. So, I get up, gather my things and head to the door. April stops me and asks--are you okay?
I was and at that point, I realized that there was in fact, twenty additional minutes to contend with. I opted to leave since I was hot and had profusely sweat through my yoga pants. Next time, I am wearing shorts. I was miserable with the amount of clothes I had on and was sweating through. Yuck!
Regardless, I loved the class and thought April was lovely. There was a mix of men and women, ages and level. I felt comfortable and cannot wait to return. Plus, they offer a two week trial period for $20. That is awesome.
Side note...two days without coffee. I am happy to say that I feel great and am enjoying the green tea. I am dependent on coffee, normally, I love it and I want to alter that habit. Drinking tea is different. There is the caffeine to satisfy my addiction and lessen the intensity of the withdrawal headache. I just feel less full from drinking tea if that makes sense. We'll see.
I must get ready for work and figure out my yoga class for tomorrow. I am definitely going. Enjoy your Wednesday!

tuesday night

2012-01-25T07:06:00.000-08:00

Night off. Skipped the mandatory run and opted for a lovely bottle of wine to accompany a meal. Inspired by wine and unmotivated to run.
Really. Truly. Seriously.
I could have run; but felt, why do it? I was not in the mood. Instead, I visualized sauteed tomatoes, onions and garlic. I had several containers of tomatoes for Jean's visit. We had a few tomatoes the initial night but that was pretty much it. Two containers of grape tomatoes remained unopened in the fridge. I couldn't get past the image and eventually, I texted my running partner that I wanted a rain check.
He responded that he was fine with it and that, he, too, was hesitant to run. I texted that I appreciated his understanding and left it at that. Not that I wasn't interested in his reason for not wanting to run, but only wanting focus on my reason for postponing.
I drove home, stopped by my favorite little farmer's market and returned home. Opened the remainder of a delicious cabernet from Sonoma and began prep work. I cut onions, tomatoes and garlic. I waited for the vegetables to cook down, meld and overwhelm me with flavor. Delightful. Amazing. Absolutely loved Tuesday dinner.
Afterwards, I sorted through the piles of paper that cover my kitchen table. Bills, christmas cards, to-do lists, etc. I walk past it, daily, and note that I must clear the table. Finally, I tackled the table last night. I sorted what was necessary/unnecessary and now have a beautiful table to utilize again.
My dad is visiting in March and I woke up, this morning, with the realization that I must buy a couch and yesterday. I will have to give him my room. I love my yoga mat but it isn't that comfortable. I have six weeks to find a couch as well as get fitted for the lovely bridemaid dress. Wedding in September requires fitting by March. Not looking forward to that fun little appointment either.
Things to do and lines to cross off the to-do list. Happy Wednesday~
I am heading to a yoga studio and have the intention of making it a regular thing in my life. I enjoy yoga and feel that I truly benefit from it. When I first returned to Phoenix, I found an instructor I enjoyed but her approach to the class changed. Initially she taught the flow series with some yin yoga involved. Eventually, the class focus shifted to all yin yoga classes which I do not particularly enjoy. I stopped going with the hope that I would locate another studio and quickly. Five months ago....
Looking forward to the class. Namaste!

Monday Memory

2012-01-23T21:06:00.000-08:00

Cable car. San Francisco. Post Irish Coffees with Sara Jo and the Goddess. The Goddess took the photo. Miss both of those ladies. I was talking to the poodle (Jean) about my life in Phoenix and how much I missed having multiple girlfriends in the same area. I loved that about Denver. There was Sara Jo, Goddess, Pocketsize, Jenn, Dr. Bryn, Tiffany, Brie, lil Mel, on and on and on. I had lots of ladies to hang out with. I still am figuring out Phoenix and there are a few girls I work with that I know I could enjoy a glass or two of wine with. It's all about making it happen.
Til then, I have fond memories of my friends, of San Francisco, of wine (of course)....

Intro story to the last five days

2012-01-23T07:32:00.000-08:00

Five days with Jean. Too much fun. Nonstop laughter and reminiscing. Quick story. There are too many to count from her five day trip. However, this one stands out in my mind.
We were in Rocky Point with Jonny. She asked me--what is your name for me...I mean, I know you have one for most people in your life...goddess, fisherman, barefoot runner, s.o., etc.
I looked at her and said--actually, I call you Jean. You don't have a name.
She responded that she was surprised since most of my stories had nicknames for friends. Still, I remained firm that--to me--she was Jean.

We head to Pelican Point with roadies and reflect on how beautiful the ocean is. Lovely day and we did take in the moment. Afterwards, Jonny drove us to JJ's for a quick cocktail. This is a cornerstone of Rocky Point for sure and Jean needed to experience it. Teddy and Donna showed up. These are friends of Jonny's that I have met on several different occasions. Good people and always entertaining.

We continued the bar tour of Rocky Point by stopping into the Wrecked Bar. Right about sunset and it was stunning. A few other Zonies were enjoying the Rocky Point attractions. Jean, being Jean, starts talking to this threesome--two women and one guy. Curious about their lives, she inquired about their history. We continue the back and forth banter. Eventually, the guy looks at Jean and I and says--lookie here....here is the poodle and the rock climber. I look at her and say--omg, that is your nickname...poodle. Fitting. Curly, uncontrollable hair that absolutely works for her. She is gorgeous. I think the poodle reference is cute but don't know if the nickname sticks for me. I am not a fan of poodles, noted, in previous posts while running with the Goddess. Somehow, it wasn't truly a long run Saturday until we saw a standard poodle at which point I would comment to Lindsay how much those dogs freak me out. So, no, I don't think I can actually refer to Jean as poodle. Good story and another memory in about twelve years of visits between she and I.
Happy Monday!

Monday Memory (late)

2012-01-18T07:59:00.000-08:00

Jean is visiting me in Phoenix. Let the debauchery begin. If only, Michaela would have made the trip, too. Then, I would be fearful of what could happen the next few days with the two of them in tow. This photo was taken while wine tasting in Woodinville, Washington. I cannot remember the exact winery but I know it was in an industrial, more urban, type of environment. It concluded our mini tour of wine tasting. I remember being surprised that Michaela drank wine with us since the night before we all had a little too much. Typically, she refuses to celebrate if hungover.
Anyways, happy wednesday. Lately, I have been reminded to enjoy the moment and stop trying to worry the future. I am HAPPY now, in this moment. Especially, today, where I am able to tour the valley with a dear friend. Tonight might be interesting. We are meeting one of Jean's friends that lives on the west side. She asked Jean if she could stay at my house to avoid the drinking/driving factor which I completely understand. However, I have a queen bed. No sofa yet. I think I might be sleeping on my yoga mat tonight to be accomodating to Jean's friend. I want to strongly advise her to take a cab back to the west valley in all honesty. My lifestyle tends to be frugal in the "things" department. I prefer dining out and travel to purchasing things to spruce up my space. Regardless, enjoy your wednesday and know that I intend to fully taste life today~

travel aspirations (somewhat)

2012-01-11T07:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, a friend texted me to see if I would be interested in a girls' weekend getaway to celebrate her bachelorette party. Confused about it since originally I had suggested something like that only to be met with--I want to do it before the wedding. People are traveling to Denver and I think having it closer to the wedding would be preferable. I am excited for her nuptials. It's a lot of work though. I had forgotten how much planning/preparation go into being part of the wedding party. There is the engagement party, bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, wedding itself, etc. I already know that I will be unable to be present at each function. If they have an engagment party I am probably out. Work, being in Phoenix and other things take priority unfortunately.
I sort of forgot about the wedding. I have been busy with work, running and dreaming of other places that I want to visit this year. For example, I want to go to Italy. I have a friend that lives in Venice and she has invited me countless times to make the trip. Last year, I was busy with stateside travel and family/friends. I put it off til it was too late to make it happen.
This year, I intend to go. It will require some planning and compromise from some of my co-workers but it will be great and I know that it will happen. However, wanting to go to Italy and planning a girls' weekend for a bachelorette party cuts into my travel time. Then, there is my dad's visit to Phoenix, Shari and my annual trip to celebrate Brian, my affair with Temecula/wine countries in Cali and half marathons that I want to run. I would love to do it all but understand that something must give. In this case, it's probably the girls' weekend. I suppose I am being unfair about this because their wedding date is a week before my birthday. It requires a weekend in Denver. I love Denver but I sort of unvisioned spending this birthday in Napa. That would be a stretch to pull that off after heading to Denver for 5+ days a week before it.
I think I can make some of it work. I did put it out there to the other attendees of the wedding to assess their thoughts regarding the bachelorette party. Anything is possible with planning. If they are interested in a girls' weekend before September, maybe, it will work. I asked them to be honest about their interest, commitment and finances. I don't know any of these girls and I want to make sure they are comfortable with a trip. We'll see.
I do know that I will go to Italy. Why wouldn't I? Food, WINE, olive oil, history, my friend lives....I would be a fool to not go.
I think I may have offended my friend when questioning the weekend trip. It was not my intention to do so, but, right now her focus is the wedding and mine is not. I understand her desire to talk about it, plan it, love it, etc, but I am just not there yet. I need to find a balance and show her that I am happy to be part of her celebration and excited for her. I am. I just have other things that excite me, too. I thrive on travel plans and could talk about that all day. In that respect, I do understand her wedding planning and how it can be consuming.
So, it remains undecided for the time being---the girls' weekend, that is. Italy is a definite as well as Shari's trip, my dad's trip and my desire to return to Temecula. Oh, and my sisters should visit, too. Each of them. I think Jasmin will be unable to since she just had a baby, but, Jade and Michaela could definitely make a trip to the Valley if they decided. Jade enjoyed Phoenix the first time out. She still speaks fondly of a mexican joint that I frequent.
Anyways, more on this later. I must start the day~

Tuesday thoughts

2012-01-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

Work. Wine Taste ( a little). Running. Yes, in that order. I managed to enjoy a day shift, taste a few samples of wine and go running. The wine factor and running were subpar. One of the reps canceled and offered to meet me tomorrow. I declined. I work tomorrow night in the closing sense and have arranged to be available on Tuesdays for that purpose. Twice, this particular rep, has offered to meet me Wednesday and twice, I have declined. I don't want to get in the habit of meeting on Wednesday. I am the Tuesday gal.
Running went okay. My running partner showed up later than anticipated. I was considering postponing due to being annoyed when I decided to just roll with it. He called me, a few times, to question the path I wanted to do. He was unfamiliar with the area and wanted to make sure that it was safe. All, I could think of, was--we are running to Scottsdale. How unsafe is that? There are probably more vagrants in Tempe near the Town Lake. But, what do I know? I like running on trails.
Still, the pace was good, for me, and then, I missed my ipod. Next time I run with this guy, I am bringing it. I know he starts strong, slows down and then sprints the last 50 yds. I prefer running consistent throughout.
Afterwards, I took off. I know that he wanted to hang out and talk but I was hot and wanting to shower. All I could think was why am I not closer to my house (shower)? Or, if you had beside me instead of behind me, we could have discussed everything you want to talk about now postrun. I took off because I didn't care. Sounds terrible and honestly, I do appreciate this guy for meeting me to run. Yet, he could push himself to keep up instead of talking himself into a lackluster performance.
A friend is in town but after meeting him for lunch tomorrow, I know, tonight is lowkey. Ironically, I believe, Jonny found me my next home. I wish that I loved, loved, loved my rental property. I don't. My landlord is like all other landlords....lame. She does things on her own terms. The lease is set up to her benefit and I pay rent in a timely manner. I call her to fix issues and am forced to wait 4-7 days. I know what would happen if I waited a week to pay rent. According to the lease, I would owe an additonal $350. Seriously. I want to wait though as a point since she always makes me wait to fix issues in rental and after living here since September I recognize that every issue I have confronted was one in which she knew about and opted to not fix prior to my moving in. That is the definite rub. The fact that she knew that the stove wasn't working or that the sink wouldn't shut off or that the blinds wouldn't open and decided to not change any of it. I am annoyed.
Tomorrow, I plan on running and enjoying life. BTW...the Goddess is Aunt. Welcome to the world Brooks Matthew--you are celebrated and loved. After hours of waiting, you finally arrived. It is exciting!
I hope your Tuesday went well. As much as I sound negative (running partner, landlord), I am blisshful and grateful for my surroundings. Wine, too.

Monday Memory

2012-01-09T19:59:00.000-08:00

Do you have fond memories of your childhood? I do.
I remember playing with the neighborhood kids all summer long. Nothing else mattered. We would spend all day long outside since that was typical. Chores done and from there we were free. No responsibility or having to be home under parental consent.

I spent a few weeks ago in California and mostly went to see the ocean. Compelled to go, I contacted a friend and mentioned my want. He concurred and promptly drove me to the beach. He mentioned the sea creatures and how if you touched them they would close up. Funny. Such a kid. I swear. He was completely at ease playing with the sea anenomes.
Today, I skipped work to hang out with my friend, Jonny. He was visiting and I took that opportunity to enjoy a day off. We met at a lovely lunch spot for wine and considered the day. National championship, drinks, food (where), etc....Early part of day was lovely. Nice lunch, conversation and then we meandered with the evening. He had a date but didn't know how committed he was to it. I visualized my exit. Still, I sat thru a few beers and random converation. At one point, i excused myself and headed outside. I was ready to conclude my night.
Now, I am thankful for Monday, a day off and wine. Grateful for being/feeling like a kid too. How innocent that point of life is. Blissful, uncomplicated and free...I do remember being a kid.

day off

2012-01-07T20:33:00.000-08:00

And, now I know, why they call it whole paycheck....omg...fell in love with the market in Chandler. The location is a little too suburban (for me) and parking lot could be nightmarish, but today, I was pleasantly surprised. No parking issues.
I walk in and am in awe. Clean, organized and oh, did I mention, the beer/wine bar? Hello, blissful mecca. I chose a wine, sat at a cabaret table and read a book. I did make a notation regarding the wine I was drinking. I have this awesome new wine book and am committed to using it. Thank you, J & T! I opened my cultural studies book and thought of my past. How I knew the author and some of our mutual acquaintances/friends, even. Cotten was a mentor of mine in college (still is to a certain degree). I took his advice regarding classes to take while in college and travel as I have gotten older. I legitimately respect his perspective.
He's published. I bought a few copies and gifted one to an old of boss of mine. I planned on giving it to both brothers, but think, the younger one annoyed me and so I kept his copy for myself. I have traveled with the book and the other night mentioned it to Brandon. I believe he would enjoy the book especially with his academic background. I wanted to find it--a), and b) take a stab at it myself. Ideal for the cabaret seating. First, I sample the wine, though. A zinfandel, from Healdsburg and high in alcohol. That is what I tasted....a hot wine. Nice.
I texted a few people and contemplated my dinner plans. I was in a market with endless possibilities. I was interrupted to hear--aren't you Harmony?
Yes.
Thought so....I looked over and looked over and looked again. Nah, that isn't her. But, you would responded. How have you been?....
This has occurred a fair amount the last few days. Running into people in Phoenix from a restaurant that worked at over ten years ago. It is funny. Roy was kind and we caught up briefly. He returned to his beer and I resumed my affair with the hot wine.
I paid the tab and shopped. Perused the wine supply and bought coteswold cheese instead. Love that cheese. I remembered I had excellent vegetables to utilize and rotini. Wouldn't a sangiovese be delightful with homemade sauce?
I stopped at a wine store and checked out their supply. Familiar with what they offered since I frequent it often and so I continued to their tasting room. Filled with about 7 people--all drinking beer. I asked the bartender for a wine list and a glass of water. Somehow, he never fulfilled that task. Busy texting and looking cool. No, I am not being facetious. This guy really texted the majority of my time in the bar. No water either.
I finished my wine and asked for my tab. I returned to the liquor store and chose a few wines. I have a friend that is visiting in a few weeks and need to stock up. From experience, I know. Must be prepared with wine and some munchie type of foods. Hummus, cheese, tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil. All complement wine. She is gluten free and so I must resist the urge to buy bread, flour tortillas or pasta. Her visit will be about wine and vegetables. I should probably detox until she arrives. Her visit will be exhausting.
Regardless, today was a great day. It began with a 6 mile run, followed by coffee and a relaxing agenda. Never again will I attempt to do laundry on Saturday either. Outside of that misstep, glorious day.
In other unrelated news...I sent a package (wine glasses and charms) to a friend that I recently visited. Wine glasses because (I think, but do not have conclusive knowledge) I broke one. It is the right thing to do. I found some glasses and wine charms. Coudn't resist the charms since they reminded me of sunflowers. I wrapped the box and sent it west.
He texted--did you send a package?
Nothing else. No thank you, no comment on the wine charms or anything. I didnt't think he opened it. Then, I was curious and asked if he received the wine glasses. Immediately, he responded---yes, that is why I texted you the other day about the package.
I asked if he liked wine charms....what? what wine charms?
Didn't you read the card....what card?
At this point, I am confused. I know that I put a card and wine charms in the box along with four wine glasses. I tell him that the card explained the charms. Perhaps he couldn't read the card was my thought. It wouldn't be the first time. Those of you on the receiving end of xmas cards, birthday, thank you....can attest to that.
Regardless, I don't hear anything for awhile. Then, I get a text---I went dumpster diving and found your card/sunflower charms--thank you.
Too funny. Life is grand. Enjoy yousr~

wednesday woes

2012-01-04T11:55:00.000-08:00

3:45 a.m. Yes, insomnia, again. I checked out my e-mail, daily blessing and found a video on-line. Thirty minutes later I was able to go to sleep. Needed it and slept in til my alarm went off.
7:45. Awesome. I opted to ignore it. I wanted to sleep and I wasn't concerned that my landlord was coming over between 9-10. I figured, I would shut my bedroom door and have her attend to the kitchen sink. Yesterday I called her to relay an issue with it. She agreed to stop by (maybe) yesterday. Of course, that didn't work out. Meanwhile, I dropped my phone in water and couldn't revive it for a few hours. I rushed around hoping to contact my running date via e-mail and Brandon to confirm our potential meetups. Brandon and I met for wine at Trix and Jeff and I ran a loop around the lake. Thankfully, I had both of their e-mail accounts. I met Jeff for the run and returned home to find that my phone was functioning. Yea. Super happy to not have to buy yet another phone.
The run went well. He increased his pace and agreed to sign up for a half marathon. It's time and I told him so. I said, quit saying, I will never run a half marathon....you're right, you won't with that attitude. However, 2012 is a new year and an excellent time to attempt a 1/2. That is what I told him while running the loop. I think we are committed to a weekly run.
Returning home, I found that my landlord had called to let me know that she would be over between 9-10 this morning to check out the kitchen sink issue. I have figured out that she is like most landlords--unwilling to fix a problem in a timely manner. I wonder if I was late a few days with rent what my consequences would be. Today, she called to say, I am sorry, but I have other issues to attend to. I could stop by Saturday, no, Sunday. You can just turn the valve off til I am able to look into it. WTF? Why am I paying you to not take my calls seriously? Annoyed to say the least.
In addition to the insomnia, I was congested. Reminder, I need to take care of myself. My immune system is weak (apparently). I hate being sick. Instead of attending the wine tasting this afternoon, I postponed it for a week and scheduled a massage, tomorrow. I think it will be an ideal way to rid myself of more toxins. Also, I might be able to sleep tonight. I remain hopeful and excited for upcoming massage. It is going to be a wonderful day.

Insomnia (again)

2012-01-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

Insomnia. Awesome. This seems to be the way I wake up lately. Thinking, reflecting, unable to stop analyzing (something, whatever) and so I go on-line to fully wake up and embrace the new day. Foolish. I could definitely use a few more hours of sleep. Jan told me when this happens I should try eating a handful of almonds to reset my blood sugar. Maybe tomorrow night. It could happen.
Tonight, I have a running date planned. My partner, Jeff, is friendly and accomodating. He drives down from Cave Creek to run a lake loop with me. For me, it would be way too far to only run a loop. He is new to running and just wanting to establish a routine. I hope to motivate him to sign up for a half instead of continuing to believe that he will never be able to do one. I thought like that once, too, and now have completed eight half marathons. I know it is up to him to decide that he wants to complete a half marathon. I am here to help him build a running foundation.
I work, today, and think about all of the necessary tasks that we should be doing on a daily basis. Deep cleaning wise. Thankfully, we have the bar mat removal set up already. Justin and I both agreed to have that task managed. We talk about other chores but neither of us have mandated that it happen. I keep waiting for him to do it and I think he believes the same. Ultimately, I will end up figuring out a cleaning schedule due to annoyance of it not being done. I like a clean work area and recognize that although I believe it's common sense to clean the cooler out, under the bar mats, etc., not everyone else feels the same way. It's easier to think that someone else is doing that task. Guilty, here, too. Until today. I will start the cleaning schedule to stop being lazy.
After work and the mandatory running date, I arranged to meet up with an old friend of mine. Brandon and I go way back to the my earlier stint in the valley. We met since he lived across the street from the bar I worked at. According to him, I was his favorite bartender and we struck up a quick friendship. From knowing him, I have cultivated a few lifetime friends--Carrie and Cedric in Las Vegas to note a few. Brandon is extremely busy and rarely do our schedules align. He has teaching, work and an active social life. Let's just say he can be nonstop drama if he chooses. In the recent past, we have attempted a meet up drink/wine and it's never occurred due to constantly changing schedules. However, I am determined, tonight, to make it work. He lives a half mile from me and there are several establishments within walking distance that will provide drinks. I am leaning towards an outdoor bar with an extensive wine list. As Brandon noted, it would be a nice nod to our past. I agree.
I think of my next month. I have a friend visiting me and a half marathon to complete. Jean is returning to Phoenix to see me. It's ironic. The reconnect with Brandon and Jean's visit both are things that I had in my life while living here the first go around. Actually, Phoenix is the only place that Jean has visited me at. Otherwise, it's always been me going to her. Seattle is not a bad place to visit...just saying.
I would love to return to San Diego to explore Temecula if at all possible. Or, I could postpone that venture til Shari and my annual trip at the end of February. We are still undecided on how to celebrate Brians' anniversary. It will be six years. I cannot believe it. Last year, we went diving in Belize and at the seven year mark, we plan on a spiritual trip. We considered Sri Lanka but I think we both agree that a warmer climate is enticing.
The six year anniversary will be be lovely and low key. San Diego is close, Sedona is a destination that has eluded us in the past or we could drive to Santa Fe. Either way, we will begin the celebration in the southwest. Phoenix could work, too. Staycation.
I want my dad to visit and need to arrange that, too. He should be returning to Missouri today and have time to look at his schedule.
Healthwise, outside of running, I hope to work on my upper body strength. Until I seriously research a gym membership, I have a strength training video that seems to work. Then there's yoga. I want to find a studio that will welcome me. In Denver, I frequented the--McDonald's of yoga studios--acccording to an acquaintance of mine and after some consideration agreed with her. They didn't cap class size which annoyed me after awhile. I tired of having to arrive 30 minutes early to find a space for my mat. This company continues to grow which is awesome for them but I ended my membership. I want to find a studio here that has a great flow series and is in the east valley. When I first returned, I found a studio in east mesa that I liked. The instructor, Vanessa, was approachable and open to suggestions. I loved that about her, still do, but they changed the concept to a yin style class. I am uninterested in holding a pose for five+ minutes and so that studio no longer was an option. I figure that I will stumble into the ideal studio and soon. There must be a groupon or living social deal that specializes in this need of mine.
Well, now that it's six, I might as well make coffee. If I experience insomnia, again, I will find almonds....

Monday Memory

2012-01-02T09:50:00.000-08:00

Granted, this was last Monday, but what a sight. Pure bliss. I love the ocean and it was a beautiful day. I should have taken photos of my breakfast burrito or fish taco that accompanied my San Diego adventure. Well, maybe not. They were good, but I believe, there are others that are phenomenal. You know, the ones that you cannot stop talking about.
For example, I lived in Guadalajara, Mexico, for a few months while in college. Spanish language requirement and all. Monday-Friday, we walked by a fish taco stand, admired the guy's fitness and mocked his teeth. I know, immature, especially, after seven months of commenting that his teeth were jacked up, we realized that he knew english and had heard every time we talked about his teeth. Humbled, we decided to finally try his fish tacos. They were amazing and then we kicked ourselves for not trying them earlier in the summer. He offered fish, calamari and shrimp tacos. I bet Jean still remembers how fantastic the baja tacos were. That is what I am determined to find in San Diego during my next visit. Since it is close to Phoenix and I want to check out Temecula too, I see, a visit in the near future.
Regardless, Happy Monday and enjoy~
I couldn't resist revisiting how glorious last Monday was. Stunning day. I wish that I was there now instead of heading into work later today. I love my cellar job but miss having only one day off a week. On my day off, I do laundry, run errands, and ultimately, find a wine bar. Shocking, right? I miss the days of having two days off in a row. Travel easily happened. Last night, I made pasta with vegetables and tossed it with a tomato sauce. I want to use my kitchen more and stop dining out unnecessarily. Moreover, I want to utilize in season vegetables. The new year motivates me to alter some of my habits and work on my weaknesses. Last year, my sister, Jade, told me--pick up some meat for dinner. I remarked, that isn't really in my wheel house. I like cooking but what I am comfortable with. Coming from her, she has three kids and it's normal to have a protein, starch and vegetables whereas I could live on guacamole, salsa and chips. I convinced her that if I were in charge of dinner, well, then I would make what I was comfortable with. I did not pick up any protein that evening.
Sangiovese accompanied my pasta last night. Lovely. I made some reference to it on facebook and my friend, Agnese, told me I should visit Italy if I enjoyed the sangiovese. I concur. I hope to visit her this year. Italy is a place that I have dreamed of going. Food, wine, olive oil, etc....history, museums and wine, again. I feel it is time to set my sights on it and make it a priority.
Until them, enjoy your day and I will enjoy remembering last Monday.

happiness

2012-01-01T09:10:00.000-08:00

It's here. Happy 2012! Beautiful morning, coffee and made myself breakfast. Scrambled eggs with jalapenos, onions, zucchini and peppers. Yummy. Yes, this is going to be a spectacular year.
Last night, I worked and although it was not as busy as I had hoped it would be, it was still pleasant and I toasted the new year with sam adams. My boss thought it would be different to have a beer toast instead of the traditional champagne. I agreed. We are a beer bar.
I drove home and the minute I entered Tempe, there were police everywhere. The block party was part of the increased feel of police and it was a holiday. I arrived safely at my house and reflected on the last year before going to bed. As previously noted, 2011 was about personal growth, adaptation and compassion. I feel I greatly benefitted and am now ready for something different. I feel fantastic about the possibilities of 2012.
There is running (always and with the Goddess), wine inspired weekends/trips and a friend is getting married in September. Somehow, I agreed to be her maid of honor. I am out of practice in that regard and lately, been reminded how "earthy" I am. Translation--not that girlie or equipped for the shopping for dresses aspect of the wedding. I can plan a fantastic dinner but the whole let's go gab and shop is out of my realm of expertise. I think I have been referred to as "granola" lately, too. Whatever.
I am excited for their nuptials but they fall a week before my birthday and I had hoped to celebrate in Napa as Brian would have been 30 this year and that seems like the ideal place to toast his birthday./ Shari and I discussed a potential celebratory spot before I remembered I had other commitments. Still, I might be able to do both. Just need to make it work with the job.
I must reflect later on this. Works calls....

upcoming trips that I desire

2011-12-31T10:48:00.000-08:00

Last night, I drank a little bit of wine ( a wee bit) to toast a friend that died. Still sad by the news and wish that I would be able to attend the service. Unfortunately, it's tomorrow and I am working. So, I made my own way of saying goodbye.
I was on line and found myself taking a travel quiz. I have been many places but did not test well. Of the 100 places, I have been to twenty-eight. Fail. Sort of surprised me but inspired me to begin thinking of potential trips in 2012. Just now I looked into flights to Denver in early February. Cheap. Really cheap and I think I might try to do it. I could move things around and head home for a brief stint. Or, I could return to California to check out Temecula or Napa. Napa always invites me back. I have a friend that is a winemaker and I would love to check out his wine. I met him the first time I visited Napa and we have remained friends and in touch (sporadically) since 2006.
I want my dad to visit before it gets unpleasant here. I envision a few spring training games and we could always watch basketball--one of our favorite pasttimes. College basketball to be clear. I do enjoy the NBA playoffs but that is about it when it comes to the NBA. College basketball is a season for me. Plus, I believe my dad would enjoy the hiking trails and Sedona. He spent some time there a few years back with his wife. Like I noted yesterday, Sedona is super close to me and I should make more of an effort to explore the region.
I did talk to my dad about visiting me in the spring. He seems interested and we will discuss it more after he returns from his vacation in Oregon. He spent the holidays with my sisters and niece and nephews. According to Michaela it has been a lovely trip. My dad is relaxed and enjoying himself.
Outside of my dad's visit, Jean and I are heading to Mexico in a few weeks after i complete my first half marathon of 2012. When I signed up, I swear, I had five weeks to train. Now, I look and it's in two weeks. I need to learn to continue to train so that the 13.1 miles doesn't hurt me.
There are half marathons to sign up for, wine ventures, classes and yoga. I must return to yoga. There must be a studio, nearby, where I will become a frequent visitor. When I was in San Diego the other day, I walked right by a core power studio. Unbelievable that Tom lived three blocks from a studio that I recognized. I considered looking at their schedule of classes and dropping into a class. Maybe next time, I will.
I love this time of year as I can hope for what the new year will bring. Joy, possibility and of course travel/wine/food. Happy New Years~
Celebrate and taste life, always...

2011 continued

2011-12-30T22:14:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh, Mexico. I have always had a soft spot for it. I lived in Guadalajara for a few months to learn spanish, eat fish tacos and figure out how to say cafe con leche para llevar (coffee with cream to go). My friend owns a bar in Rocky Point and he was kind enough to let me crash at his house for an indefinite amount of time. I show up with no itinerary outside of that I want to rejuvenate/reflect. Jonny, as always, enables me to explore and be. He showed me around town and foisted me on his roommate, Derek. Derek, at first, was hesitant to have me descend on their livelihood. Eventually, he came around and also became a tour guide. He was more aware of the local food factor while Jon showed me to the tourist places and drinking. Well, and golf. That was awesome. Derek knew of taco stands and listened when I said, I want a homemade tortilla. Between the two, I always had someone to hang out with.
My sisters, Michaela and Jade, also welcomed a few visits from me this year. One time was business. I dogsat for Michaela and brought Jan along. I though it was time for her to meet her "twin" Jean in Washington. That trip was fantastic. We flew out in July, went to the Oregon coast, took care of Michaela's whippet, Pete, and explored the Willamette Valley and spent some time with Jean in Washington. Absolutely delightful. We found bacon flavored vodka and drank ample amounts of wine. Jean always is prepared for visitors. We made steak and scallops. Afterwards, Jan responds, well, no offense, but we could have just went directly to her house and spent a week there. I know she enjoyed seeing my sisters but I think she had talked herself out of wanting to go to Jean's lake house since she didn't know Jean.
Outside of that trip, I did spend time with Michaela and Jade on a few different occasions. I have decided that 2012, they can visit me. It's been awhile since either girl has come to my hospitality and i maxed out my trips this year. Three times. This is probably the most time I have spent with Michaela and Jade in years. I must say that it was such a treat to see Jade's kids. Baseball games, bbqing, and taking Emery to find the moona. He is so sweet.
Food wise--the year started with a trip to Belize. Shari and I thoroughly enjoyed Habanero's in Ambergris Caye. I loved that we wanted a chocolate dessert (demanded it as it was on the menu) and so our second visit the chef brought us a cut up snicker's bar with chocolate syrup. That is love.
After Belize, I had a few home cooked meals in an RV. Aron was an accomodating host and made sure that I had my dose of daily coffee. Phoenix offered mexican food and daily wine specials. That is all I am saying. I could live off of salsa, guacamole and chips. Can you say los dos and bravo? I swear, that place has the best tortillas. In fact, I met Jan and Tom today for lunch to seek out the best bean burrito in Phoenix.
I did find time to return to Denver on several occasions. I made an effort to visit my favorite calamari spot, Rapture bar and of course, the Falling Rock. I adore Denver and it will always be home to me. I ran a few half marathons in Colorado, too. I wanted to try to be productive. I saw Sara Jo, the Goddess, Jenn K, Steve and Pocketsize and others. It reminded me of how great my life was there and how it will always welcome me. I must plan a trip and soon.
For my anniversary weekend (end of August), I went to Sedona. One of my other favorite spots. I found a suitable spot and shared a meal with one of my favorite friends. Lovely times, indeed. Next year, I will return to Sedona as I am that close. It is a mystical mecca and foodie hang out too. I would love to explore more.
I forgot to mention my brief stint in Santa Fe. Melody and her partner, Clayton, were amazing. I couch surfed while passing through between Denver and Phoenix. They took me to see a few spectacular sunsets and introduced me to a new spot in Santa Fe. I hope to treat Melody and Clayton to a meal in Phoenix or Santa Fe soon.
I did cook a lot and find that I am quite capable in the kitchen. I love making enchiladas and anything with avocado is always welcome in my kitchen. I almost destroyed my laptop making margaritas for Jan and Tom one night. Damn the avocado factor.
Like I previously mentioned, 2011 was different for me. It humbled, challenged and forced me to be compassionate and sympathetic, even. I know that I needed it and learned a lot while finding my path again. I feel that I have come full circle. I feel healthy and cannot wait for what 2012 brings. I know that I am ready.
Tomorrow, I work and toast the new year. Also, plan on going for a run. I lost sight of some of the things I hold hear. Running is definitely one of them. I must go manana.
2011 showed me that I can do anything. What did it show you? Or, better yet, what did you learn, improve, share? Congrats and enjoy the end of 2011....

year in review, take one....

2011-12-30T10:39:00.000-08:00

Happy last Friday of 2011. What a year this has been, for me. From leaving my life in Denver, to uncertainty in Phoenix and currently, thriving in the moment. I can honestly say, I am precisely where I am supposed to be. Blissful, compassionate and continuing to learn from experience.
I had no idea that my life would turn upside down early this year. I rolled with in by packing my things and heading to the southwest. Thankfully, I have extremely supportive friends that encouraged me to find myself while traveling the southwest. Initially, I believed that Phoenix would be a brief stopover. I had lived here before and as much as I loved the sun factor, I wanted to be in Seattle, San Francisco or somewhere in Oregon near my sisters. I tried Oregon and the weather depressed me. From being in Denver, I do know, I am a sun kid. I love having it 300+ days a year and the idea of rain lessoned my inclination to move to the northwest. Sorry, sisters, I need sun.
This year, I reconnected with friends in Mexico, Slab City/Yuma and Phoenix. It was nice to be able to see them in their setting and provide support and encouragement. My friend in Mexico has had a challenging year with the economy, media and passport issues. His bar continues to thrive but there is always that hope of more. I visited about 6 weeks in the spring and saw an increase of people Memorial Day weekend but outside of that, the beach was, for me, a welcoming tranquility. Most times when I would venture down it would be me and a handful of others. I have felt safe in each border crossing and hope to return soon.
Yes, life is Mexico is different and I enjoyed that period for reflection. I had considered relocating there but after a few weeks, knew, that it would be unsatisfying. I prefer city life. Spending time with my friend in the RV, also, was interesting. He has opted to live an unconventional life in such a way that seems foreign to most people. Selling your house, traveling with some belongings and being free to explore the world. He has great stories and photos to illustrate the last year of his life. I had the opportunity to see him in Las Vegas and it was refreshing to find him so relaxed, free and happy.
When I first relocated to Phoenix, I lived with some friends of mine in the west valley. Graciously, they allowed me to move in until I found myself in a position to move out. I increased my culinary skills during this time as they do not dine at home often. It is easier, for them, to frequent a handful of restaurants. Less trips to the grocery store, prep/clean up, etc. Plus, cooking for two isn't that awesome either. Of course, I prefer cooking for someone else than just myself in most cases. Anyways, I enjoyed that time period, too. I was in a safe place and near excellent hiking. Plus, their Akitas are now considered my dogs, too. I adore Dozer and Jax.
I found a job in a wine cellar through a recommendation of my friend, Kat. She is living in Denver. We sort of switched places is how I like to think about it. From the cellar job, I patiently waited to find the ideal restaurant job for me. I wasn't interested in a corporate place. I wanted to find a restaurant with class, great food and of course, wine. Ironically, due to my previous stint in Phoenix, the job found me. I am extremely happy with where I am currently at. I guess I needed to find balance in my life to arrive at this place. I am happy.
I did receive sad news yesterday. Sort of illustrates the end of an era for me. One of my friends/regulars of my old job in Denver died. They found him in his house which is sad. Very lonely way to go. I toast Mr. Kline this evening after I get off of work. If I wasn't working the weekend, I would be interested in flying back to attend the services. This man was a gracious soul.
I did manage to run four half marathons--three with Lindsay, one with Shari--and deem 2011 as the social year of running. My training decreased but thank god for muscle memory. For example, I only ran twenty minutes before the last 13.1 and was able to sustain it. A touch sore, but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The best part about Vegas is dining. We ate at Bouchon, Olives and Todd English's P.U.B--also a great find. Shari met some of my friends from high school and put faces with names. Shari has heard a bunch of my stories from our traveling and so I think she appreciated meeting the RV guy and Jenn O.
Then, there was San Diego and how it inspired me to concoct a return visit and soon. It surprised me how much I took to it. Great vibe, food and the wine factor remains unexplored. That, alone, begs a return visit. I see it happening.
I haven't even touched, that much, on Mexico or the food factor, or my visits to Oregon. I know that I will review that, too. Until later, enjoy your Friday!

how the venture concluded...

2011-12-29T13:19:00.000-08:00

Final day in San Deigo. I woke up, early, as I do, and headed out to the nearest Starbuck's. I mentioned it to Tom since I would purchase him a coffee if he was interested. He wasn't. He seemed content on the couch with his dog.
I walked down Garnett and felt liberated. Beautiful day, sunshine blazing and inspiring. I knew that I had a drive ahead of me but wasn't quite ready to leave. Instead, I loitered in Pacific Beach for a bit, before, returning to Tom's apartment and making him get up. I wanted to check out either another fish taco or find chowder. I was in San Diego, right?
I forgot to mention that we did check out a fish taco on Monday. Mediocre, at best and Tom knew it. I think he had eaten at the establishment, before, but never eaten a fish taco. I am certain that there are ample taco stands that would have sated my desires.
Anyways, he got up and we found a place in Pacific Beach so that I could eat a fish taco and try some chowder. Perfection. I ate most of it but knew that we were having lunch with his aunt in a couple of hours. I couldn't resist attending this luncheon as I have heard numerous stories of this aunt. And, Jean called Tom and said--yes, take Harmony, that way she's know what I have been talking about for years.
So, I picked up my bag and followed Tom to Point Loma. Lunch with his aunt was interesting. When we walked up, she was curious as to who I was, and when Tom introduced me, he said, this is mom's friend, Harmony.
Linda goes--your mom or my mom's friend?
What? Really. I look like I was a friend of your 80+ year old mother. Kinda odd comment to make or so I thought. We dined in a place that reminded me of Fifi's--my first true restaurant job. Had a similar vibe and I remarked about it Tom. His mom would meet me there, sometimes, for calamari, but I think Tom was too young to fully appreciate the place.
Regardless, he had a veal sandwich and I opted for a wicked caesar salad. Wicked in that it was supposedly spicy. Just extra garlic. Not too bad, but not that inspired. We talked with his aunt and I kept thinking--I really do need to get on the road. I have 5+ hours to look forward too.
The drive back to Arizona was really not that bad. I stopped in Alpine for coffee and began my return venture. I would like to return to California to check out Temecula, see the zoo, botannic gardens and find the ultimate fish taco. Really, I think that is important. I feel slighted about not finding a baja style taco. In reflection, the drive is not that far and I see a return in the near future. I cannot believe that it has taken me this long to check out San Diego. The appeal of Temecula begs for a quick return trip to check it out.

day two of cali adventure

2011-12-29T11:25:00.000-08:00

The next morning, after making a few necessary stops--food and coffee--we headed to Point Loma to walk around some of the trails. We began the day in Ocean Beach and munched on breakfast burritos. I think I had mentioned how wonderful that would be in the a.m. if Tom knew of a place to recommend. He took me to a spot and we people watched in Ocean Beach. If I lived in San Diego, that is where I would want to live--I think. Funky vibe, great shops and inviting. Next time, I think I will suggest checking out the spot on the pier that offers breakfast burritos. I want to dine on the water and people watch.

Beautiful day. I loved being near the ocean. Our hike was minimal and easy going to say the least. We saw several surfers, couples and dog walkers. I was surprised at the amount of tourists in the area. We almost saw a dog fight between a doberman and a labrador. The doberman's owners were unwilling to alter their course which surprised me. Obviously, their dog was not enjoying the attention of the labrador and it could have led to a big skirmish.

After the hike, we drove to some tourist areas since I wanted some post cards and the necessary magnet. In 2005, I started this habit of buying garish magnets to represent the places that I have visited. Originally, Tom took me to an area near downtown. We pulled into a parking lot and immediately recognized that that had been a mistake. We were inundated with people and it was claustrophobic. Thankfully, he offered to detour to old town. I found a magnet in the mission district and from here, we checked out more hiking spots. San Diego, for me, is about the ocean and enjoying the weather and of course, the food factor. I see a return trip in the near future to check out more fish tacos, Temecula and other foodie friendly places. I have little desire to shop which I think surprised Tom. No, I am more about the outdoor factor and food. Two days was not enough by any means. The drive was not too bad either. I believe I will return and soon. I understand the appeal of that city.
Day two continued with Tom heading to work and me wandering around Pacific Beach. Tom's roommate offered to take me a bbq but I felt inspired to walk around his area of town. I stumbled into a Trader Joe's hoping to find something to eat on the way back to Phoenix. This woman stops me and says--omg, how are you? I saw your jacket and recognized the logo, look up, and realize I know you. How are you, Harmony? It's Brenna....not going to lie, it took me a minute to place her. It had been awhile. She explained that she had been living in Pacific Beach, returned to Denver (briefly) before coming back to San Diego to work for Trader Joe's. She said she loved it there and we chatted for a few additional minutes. I told her that I was now in Phoenix and visiting a friend for christmas. Small world, indeed.
Eventually, I found a spot that seemed appealing. I had a glass of wine and reflected on my trip. I always do this and I make lists of what I want to do in the near future. I like crossing things off my lists.
Anyways, Tom called me and we had mexican take-out for dinner. I swear, i could live on mexican food. We shared burritos and pastor tacos. I was disappointed in the taco but the burrito was excellent.
Day two concluded with watching Seinfeld and me considering when I should take off for Phoenix. I wasn't too excited about that drive....

San Diego Christmas

2011-12-28T10:29:00.000-08:00

Welcome to San Diego. Absolutely lovely way to spend Christmas. This year, I struggled to decide what would be the best way to celebrate the holiday. I considered heading to Mexico to visit Jonny, Aron in Havasu since he is in the area and Havasu isn't too far away or San Diego. My friend, Jean, from Seattle, mentioned that her son would be there for the holidays and probably able to show me around the city. After contemplation, I headed west to the pacific ocean. This is a view from Mount Soledad where my adventure began.

Here is a photo op of my host, Tom, overlooking the view from Mount Soledad. A little background information on Tom. The last time I saw him, we were t.p.ing one of his classmates houses in Kansas. It's been awhile since I have seen him.

I love the sunset factor and only regret not making more time to spend at the beach. In hindsight, I should have opted to meditate for a bit. The ocean is always inviting and soothing. Since my xmas eve spent in Margaret River, Australia, I always hope to return to the beach for this specific holiday. Last year, I went scuba diving in Key West. Yes, I do love the beach.

Another photo of Tom, his friend, Marco, and me before our dinner. It was a delightful evening with ample wine, catching up and food. Somewhere along the way, one of us broke a wine glass...nice. I think I am sending wine glasses as an apology.

I chose scallops for dinner. I considered black cod, but the scallops caught my attention immediately. Also, I had brussel sprouts with bacon--love that. The service at the restaurant was lackluster. However, being christmas I can forgive that and some of the other girls with us were waivering on whether or not to stay where we were seated. Concerned about the cost while I kept thinking--seriously, aren't you all in the service industry? And, didn't you look at the menu before you chose this place? We are committed to the dining area and cheers to the holiday.

Yes, I had a wonderful time in San Diego and will update more later. Must run errands for the time being.

Tuesday offers

2011-12-20T10:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday! Beautiful day for a run, wine tasting and dinner with friends. I am excited about all of these activities today and must not get too focused on the wine aspect. It is easy to do especially as I will be sampling wines that I love. Remember my Rapture fixation? I will tasting some wines from that profolio and yes, I am excited.
I am meeting Jan and Tom for dinner, too. We will meet at a local spot that they enjoy and as much as I like the spot, the only drawback, is that we always eat the same things. I have learned, from experience, that they are creatures of habit. They like to eat what they know they enjoy. I understand that but am more adventurous in my dining. Tonight, we will have a spinach salad and pepperoni pizza with olive oil for the crust. Delicious but wish it were a little more inspired.
I am over half way done with the christmas cards and feel that I will finish that task today. I keep putting it off and then realize that xmas is now five days away. Must complete the cards.
I did manage to sign up for the Phoenix 1/2 marathon in January. Originally, I was on the fence. My training is definitely not where it was a year ago. 2011 has been social running for me and I have truly enjoyed that experience and hope to kick it up a notch in 2012. I asked the Goddess if she wanted to join me for the race but her sister is due with her first child early in January. I do understand Lindsay's hesitation to travel down here. I think this race will be a solo effort. I decided to sign up for it after being offered a discount from the rock and roll series. As previously noted, the Las Vegas event was a cluster/nightmare for many runners. I didn't hate it but I would definitely reconsider signing up for that race in 2012. The lack of water at aid stations, porta potties, spectator support and the hostility of running with both walkers and full marathon participants left a bitter taste in my mouth. That race was not well executed by any means. I did e-mail the organizers my displeasure and they responded. I appreciated that, too. I don't know if they will take my thoughts seriously, but, I felt, they needed to hear some constructive criticism and make adjustments to their event for 2012.
I feel better after signing up for the Phoenix Race, too. It is in my neighborhood and a fantastic way to start the year. I believe I will convince my friends to run a wine race and in addition, there will be a few more half marathons to add to the mix. I hope to do another full, too. I have no idea which one it will be, though. I have time to decide and think it will be a fall race. I tend to like to put the full's off until later in the year.
I am off to run or I will procrastinate that activity til tomorrow. Wine follows and eventually, there will be pizza in my future. A few of my friends are celebrating birthdays today and I will toast them in spirit. Celebrate today!

weekend recap

2011-12-19T09:11:00.000-08:00

Well, after I mentioned the toilet issues, I went to work and prayed that my landlord would call me after checking out the bathroom. I feared her reaction if I needed to call a plumber over the weekend. In many ways, she is like the slumlord. She prefers fixing things herself instead of contacting a contractor. Quicker than the Slumlord and approachable but cheap, nonetheless. I knew that if I called a plumber during the weekend, she would not be pleased.
She didn't call, e-mail or text.
I returned home, hoping, that the issue would be resolved. I am surprised to note that it was. I did use a drain clearing agent which apparently worked. Still, surprised, that my landlord hasn't contacted me.
Regardless, I worked, all weekend, and saw my friend from high school that told me I was well-preserved. We met at a dive bar in Phoenix and sampled the famous wings that makes this establishment. Yes, they were delightful and typically, I never eat wings. It sort of freaks me out how they are prepped in most restaurants. Baked, left out to be touched by flies and then fried. Yep, not for me. However, this dive restaurant had an open grill and so I watched the guy fry, then grill, our hot wings.
Saturday night, I was out of sorts. I didn't feel like being social and I think it was apparent. We each had a beer, ate some food and then parted ways. I didn't feel like dishing about high school people. I wanted to be alone and in bed. I wanted down time.
Sunday was all about work, too. We had a holiday party scheduled and so I was supposed to arrive at 2 pm and close the bar. Very long shift to say the least. It went by quickly with a caffeine assist at 7 pm. I convinced one of the other managers to do a coffee run for me. Lovely.
Great night and mellowed out about eleven. I left at 12:40. Rarity and it felt fabulous. I cannot lie. I did enjoy being home before 3:30.
I am disappointed that I delayed a run, postponed finishing my christmas cards and felt so antisocial on Saturday. I will catch up on sleep and return to the routine of running and yoga. I keep meaning to ask one of my co-workers if they practice yoga and what studio they would recommend. When I first moved to Arizona, I found a studio in Mesa but the instructor is now focusing on a yin class that doesn't really do it for me. I prefer the flow series with many chatarangas. Sitting in a pose for five minutes is not how I prefer to practice.
I am deciding how to spend christmas, too. I am leaning towards San Diego. I did check the weather in Sedona since Tiffany and Dan are driving down from Denver. It would be excellent to see them and I do love Sedona. However, there is something soothing about a beach christmas. It equalizes me--I think.
I must start my day and so I will conclude this for now. The cellar bechons....

missed my run.....

2011-12-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

Delayed run. Not because I wanted to, but, because something else took my focus. As many of you know, I have been cursed with back-up issues. Sorta funny and always in my life. I suppose I was waiting to see when this issue would arise. Plus, at the current rental, the toilet is hot. Not kidding. I don't understand why the toilet is temperature-wise hot, yet it is. Today, I went to use the facility and noted a potential overflow issue. Hence, no afternoon run.
Instead, I picked up a plunger and thought to myself, how did I not purchase one of these when I moved in? Seriously, overflow issues follow me around. There was the rental in Denver, with Sara, that needed a new septic pump. We discovered this after the sewage backed up in the basement shower while running a load of laundry. Disgusting to say the least.
Or the next rental where Marc and Megan dealt with root issues, once every four months. The Slumlord refused to get that situation addressed. Instead, he let us clean up the crap every few months and say, it must be you....hmmmm, of course, it wouldn't be the old pipes or the roots, right? He was such a gem of a landlord.
I had another story of a rental issue while living with Brian. It motivated me to consider alternate apartments instead of renewing the lease. I loved that apartment. There was so much space and two balconies. Yet, when the management refused to look into the back up issues, I knew, we needed to relocate.
I e-mailed my landlord and will wait. I know that she is assertive and wanting to handle issues herself. However, since it is Friday, she needs to take action before the weekend rates apply. We'll see. I know a week ago my contact case fell into the toilet and I didn't fish it out. That could be part of the problem. Outside of that, I have no idea what is going on except that it brings comedy back to my life....

thoughts of Friday

2011-12-16T11:50:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday. I woke up at 3:30 and was unable to go back to sleep until 7. I watched a few shows on hulu.com since my mind was racing and I knew that I would only toss and turn. As a result, I am still lounging this morning. I think I forced myself to greet the day around tenish. Made coffee. Typical way for me to start my day. Mental note, must stop and purchase coffee for tomorrow.
I have tried in the past to cut caffeine out of my diet. It is painful for three days and eventually the headache subsides. However, the headache is terrible and I love my a.m. infusion of coffee. It is part of my day. I recognize that I am unwilling to give coffee up. While traveling, I drank instant coffee (yuck) just to get my fix.
Slow start to day and with newfound internet availability, at home, I am unmotivated to get out of bed. I have many errands--cards, gifts, and enjoying being outside. Think I am waiting for a bit longer to get up. Tomorrow, I work at 8:30. That turnaround is difficult. Although, I am not closing tonight which will with that. When we first opened, I was scheduled a closing shift Friday followed by the opening on shift on Saturday. I thought I could handle it and both Saturdays, I arrived, late. I hope to arrive on time tomorrow and any other upcoming early morning shift. I do enjoy working day shifts.
Plus, I am meeting my friend that called me well-preserved during our last lunch date. Looking forward to seeing Josh and what he has to say. We met in fourth grade and continued to be friends through college. Our paths, each, led us out of the midwest. He plans on heading west in four months, I believe. His ideal location is Seattle. I love Seattle if only the weather included more sunny days. There is something about the sun that inspires and I feel truly alive. Yesterday in spite of my annoyance with inconsiderate hikers, I felt inspired when I made it to the summit. And, for the first time in a long time, there were two other hikers at the top only. Typically, it is a popular spot to chit chat while overlooking the Valley. Yesterday, I think I could have meditated for an hour without incident.
I am going to go for a mid-afternoon run. Feel that it will keep me grounded and healthy. Maybe inspire me to figure out my xmas plans. I am drawn to the beach and return to that idea frequently. A drive to San Diego wouldn't be too taxing or perhaps, Rocky Point. I have limited days off due to colleague's holiday plans. I can always celebrate at a later date.
Slow start, sure, but happy. I hope you enjoy your Friday, too~

2011-12-15T20:05:00.000-08:00

Day off. Loved it. Had no expectations of how to spend it. Found myself dining at a local homemade tortilla spot, followed by a solo hike, wine for happy hour, frequented a job and made dinner. Lunch was excellent. Met Jan for quick bite to eat.
Afterwards, headed to Squaw Peak and hiked. Beautiful day. Way up was peppered with other hikers ascedning/descending. I stopped, numerous times, for the people descending. I let them pass, said, excuse me and continued with my day. Funny, how, when I was descending, I encountered a bunch of idiots that were apparently foreign to etiquette. Plus, on the way down, I found myself surrounded by people that were uncomfortable hiking. Heavy feet. I stopped several times to let this one couple pass. We played tag a few times and eventually, I gave up and took off. I tired of (quickly) of how this chick treaded.
I called Jan and inquired about meeting for happy hour. Unfortunately, she was on the the other side of the valley. I opted to check out a place that I like to frequent. I drove up and the valet goes--oh, it's been what, two weeks since I have last seen you?
I noted that I missed him last week, tossed him my keys and walked inside. He told me he would bring my keys inside in a few minutes. I sat down at the bar and ordered a glass of wine. The initial bartender was fine. Attentive, friendly and efficient. I watched him while writing my idea of a christmas card. At four, they change servers. Staff meeting (briefly) and then the transition from day to night. I knew one of the night bartenders and felt confident in his ability to make me feel at ease.
I finished my glass of wine and grabbed my purse. I did leave some writing material to indicate that I would be returning. I waited in line for the bathroom. I returned with the intention that I would pay my tab, finish some water and leave.
I didn't factor in that the bartender would push my stuff down to accomodate new guests. Not a huge deal had he asked or had it only been a glass of water. Not to mention before I left for the restrooms, I had mentioned that I needed to pay. The female bartender did nothing to accomodate me paying the bill.
So, I was annoyed when I returned and had been shifted. The male bartender offered me another glass of wine and I declined, offering to pay.
But, of course....wink. wink.
I wait. I wait. I wait.
Throw some cash on the bar and head out. I was tired of waiting, annoyed from the moving over maneuver and the valet's comment about me frequenting the establishment. I walk to my car and find it unlocked.
Cherry on the annoyance factor especially after tipping the valet for his jackass comment about me going there. I call Jan and tell her that if I mention that place to punch me in the neck. Seriously. Obviously, they don't need the business.
I head into my other job and see my boss. Immediately, she is apologetic about how things looks when I walked into work on Monday. As I was boozy, I say, yes, I was annoyed to find it like that........too much honesty is never a problem for me.
Regardless, safe, at home, with wine and a clean bed to sleep in. Cannot wait. Hope you enjoy your night, too~

I am back.....

2011-12-14T11:30:00.000-08:00

It's official. I have internet capabilities in my house. I cannot believe it! After trying to persuade my neighbor's to fix their router for the last month, a brief flirtation with century link, I broke down, called Cox, and yes, I have internet at home.
Originally, I was annoyed by the price of the modem and thought century link would be the preferred route until I actually tried to establish service. What a joke! They sent a technician a week before I was to receive my modem. After calling them three separate occasions to figure out where the modem was, I decided to cancel the service. I foresaw the future of that relationship. Me, being annoyed with waiting, waiting, waiting.
Regardless, I have no further reason to not be blogging. Or catching up on Glee episodes. Finally got the M J/Jackson 5 love. What a great rendition of some of his best work. Excellent. Excited about the rest of the season. Up til this point, I was a little disappointed probably since I catch the episodes a week late and I have been distracted. I like the addition of characters (glee project contestants) and return of Sam. I am inspired from the recent episode.
In other news, I am still semi-uncertain on how I will be celebrating christmas. Last year, I had a lovely weekend in Key West and this year, sort of waited to see how things would play out. I considered spending time with friends in Phoenix but believe, I will either venture south to Mexico or north to Sedona.
I miss the idea of Key West or Australia. A beach is tranquil and soothing. Gives me the opportunity to reflect on the last year and the upcoming one. Why wouldn't I seek this out?
I am considering half marathons and a full for 2012. Hoping to convince the Goddess, Sara Jo and Megan to meet up and run another wine race. Santa Barbara would be delightful or perhaps, Oregon. That way, I would be able to see my sisters, too. Megan would like to sign up for the half in Virginia and I am not discounting that. I am a little concerned about the humidity factor in June.
It is so nice to be able to linger while blogging and not have to be concerned if I am taking up a table at Starbuck's. Having wi-fi is heavenly. Very happy.
I am waiting to hear back from the organizers of the las vegas half. I e-mailed them after they provided a way to reach out about the experience of the 2011 event. I mentioned my frustrations as a half marathon participant and noted, that I had run the 2010 full marathon course as well. Although there were some issues with that route, it was preferable to what I watched this year. I am hoping that they considered my perspective. I believe they are overwhelmed with the amount of responses received. There has been a lot of negative press on that particular event. I do not envy them. I think they learned a lot about managing a large event in that race.
I attempted to write christmas cards today, too. Prior to having internet at home again. Now, I am delayed due to the joy of blogging. Hoping to resume xmas cards and have them out by 2012. Too much to do and not enough time. I wanted to include photos for some friends of this past year. I spent a lot of time in Oregon, Colorado and Mexico. I would like to share visiuals with some of those people. Maybe next year. Perhaps a resolution.
Have a lovely day. I need to conclude this for now....

2011-12-07T14:11:00.001-08:00

self portrait before we started the race. I am getting better ay my technique.

The latest and greatest

2011-12-07T12:36:00.001-08:00

Victory. Completed another 1/2 Marathon, attempted to eat my way thru Las Vegas and drank a bunch of red wine. I haven't been able to post about any of it since I am still without service. I did manage to take steps to rectify it. I am waititng to receive a modem and then I will be able to quit griping about my lack of service at my neighbor's house. I don't know how they do it. They still don't have service. Only one of the three has uninterrupted service. The other two are s-o-l....no bueno.
I am tired of lamenting things that I can control. I definitely can pay for my own service and am in the process of establishing that. Til then, I am at a coffee shop hoping to update my blog.
Las Vegas was wonderful. I had planned on driving to the Strip due to waiting too long to purchase tickets. Can you say related to lack of internet service at home?
A friend of mine and her hubby opted to cash in miles and fly me to Las Vegas. Delightful. Well, had it been a direct flight. I flew from Phoenix to Los Angeles, to Palm Springs and finally arrived in Las Vegas. Long day Saturday. This after a closing shift. I needed sleep in a bad way. I think I slept for awhile between two seats in the airport. I have never been able to do that in the past. I was that tired. Plus, when I arrived at the airport in Phoenix, my flight departed from Terminal Two. I walked in to security and my hands were swabbed. I asked when they began doing that and I heard, two years. Funny, they don't practice that in terminal three or four. I had the full body scan (also a lot of fun) and headed to the seats.
I arrived in Palm Springs and found that my flight was delayed. Thankfully, it was a short delay and I did arrive in Las Vegas about ten minutes after the original flight arrived. I took a cab to the Bellagio and checked in with two of my friends. Shari had already walked around the Bellagio and Jennifer was in route to the hotel. I had friends in town from Denver (who bought my ticket) and the RV guy decided to cross paths with me while I was in Las Vegas. Interesting to say the least.
I spent the weekend with Shari, Jenn and Aron. Sort of a mini-reunion from high school days and then, of course, Shari, representing the current me. It's funny how we know people from our past and realize what they know while talking to them. Jennifer talked about my mom and siblings, Aron spoke of Denver and my interactions with him on his RV lifestyle and Shari, spoke of wine inspired weekends, spectating running events and Brian.
All, in all, it was fantastic. Dinner at Bouchon was inspired. I absolutely adored the gnocchi and Paul, my favorite sommelier, was working. He hooked us up with some food friendly wine. The next morning was hard. A touch hungover and still hoping to catch up on sleep. Shari treated us to coffee and muffins before finding lunch. The 1/2 marathon, at night, was challenging. How to prepare for the 13 mile run? I think I could have hydrated better and eaten more food. When I started the race, I was hungry. I ate a sports bean at the start of the race and continued to eat in hour segments. If I ran another night race, I would take more time to fuel properly.
Jennifer wanted fettuccine alfredo and Shari and I were indifferent. I can always eat a burrito or salsa. We found a restaurant in the Bellagio that saitisfied all of our needs. After lunch, we returned to the room and napped. I knew that if I didn't sleep more, I would struggle with the 1/2.
A tram ride to the Mandalay Bay and we waited to start the night race. I tend to get hot after the first mile and a half and so I wore a t-shirt, jacket and shorts. I figured that would suffice.
Last year, I ran the full marathon in Las Vegas. I was conditioned and ready to tackle the full. The first half was awesome, running up and down the Strip, surrounded by spectators and casinos. I loved that aspect of the event. The second half was challenging once we veered off the Strip.
This year, they opted to start the full an hour and a half before the 1/2 marathon participants. The course started them west of the Strip and then they met up with the half marathon participants to race the Strip.
Terrible idea. From the start of our 1/2 experience, people were upset about the lack of space for the marathon runners. There were cyclists trying to direct traffic which further annoyed me. I always think I am going to run into a cyclist or something. Then, there were some pissed off full marathon participants. I think I heard--get the f*#k over....Initially, I wanted to say, calm down and then I considered their training, that race and how furious I would have been had that been my experience with the full marathon. There were people everywhere. Every type of experience of inexperience too. As the race progressed, I, too, was annoyed with the course. The constant negativity and people walking, not running, this event. I think they should consider a walk lane for this course.
Plus, there were not enough porta potties on the course. Some of the aid stations were out of water and cytomax and there was a constant flow of people. Not once was there a break of not having to weave in and out of people. It was obnoxious. I think this route was poorly planned and definitely missed any sort of successful execution. The energy of the race was shot and negative.
Shari did extremely well inspite of that. She walked, maybe, half a mile. I ran with her and a few times found myself in la la land, confused, as to where she was. Still, we managed to meet up and finish the race together. I am so proud of her!
We met up with Jennifer since she was in a different corral than we were. It was cold at the end of the race. Windy and miserable. The cab stands were gigantic and the wait for the tram was another representation of how many inconsiderate people there are out in the world. I felt like I was part of a cattle prod.
Unfortunately, Jennifer was sick after the race and unable to join us for dinner. I had to celebrate at Olives. We raced back to the Bellagio so I could shower off some of the salt and head to dinner.
Since we were the last reservation, well, the experience was okay. I was disappointed in the food factor and they were out of lavosh crackers which made Shari sad. Yet, it was another lovely experience amongst friends.
Monday morning, Jennifer returned to Kansas City and Shari and I enjoyed massages. Jennifer had a statistics class that mandated her return. I wish she had been able to stay. The massages were excellent.
Later, Monday, Shari, Aron and I met up with some of my other friends, Carrie and Cedric. Another inspired conversation between different people in my life and travels. I am blessed to have such great people in my life.
Tuesday, we rushed to the airport to stand in another line of security. I feel the theme of this trip was waiting in line or dodging inconsiderate people. I was frustrated to say the least with the experience. After we found the right terminal, I rushed to the bathroom. I had to go potty. I jump up, bend down to grab my baggage and bang my head on the coat hook. Ouch!!! I swear, I thought I was going to die. It hurt so bad.
I found some ice and then carried it around the airport. Excellent. Great way to conclude my trip. It was an interesting trip with great people, food and wine, of course. I believe I will reflect more on it later. I am just grateful to have blogged some of it...

wednesday thoughts

2011-11-23T09:07:00.001-08:00

At neighbor's house trying to feel comfortable while using their service. It just feels weird but I am tired of waiting for them to address the issue. I want them to feel my frustration and so I forced myself to come over and use their ether cord.
Yesterday was a wash. I spent most of the day out with friends and lazy. I think I needed it. I needed a day to just be. Of course, I did some work related tasks. Met with Justin to discuss how things are going at the bar and research other restaurants. Spent happy hour with Jan and skipped the necessary run. I have a head cold, now, and so that was smart, I think. Trying to run congested doesn't sound appealing. It sounds like a struggle.
I believe yoga and strength training is the way to go. I suppose it is great that I scheduled a massage, too. Today, an 80 minutes session with Brandon. I cannot wait. I hope to schedule a massage in Las Vegas, too. Last year the massage toasted the marathon effort. This year, it will celebrate Shari's first half marathon. I am so proud of her. I admire her tenacity to set a goal and go after it. She is truly an inspiration. I cannot wait to run this race with her.
My friend, Jennifer, also will be running her first half marathon. She, too, is an inspiration. Crazy like a fox with home renovations, motorcycle restoration, MBA aspirations and nonstop mobility. I cannot wait to see her in Las Vegas, cheer her on and celebrate with a fantastic meal at Tao or Olives. My typical celebratory place, Bouchon, closes at ten pm. I think it will be a pre-race destination. I must dine there.
Thanksgiving should be interesting this year. Do I dine with friends, head north or try something completely different? I know that it will be wine inspired wherever the destination is. I am not concerned with where I drink wine, only, that I have a day to truly give thanks. I have much to be grateful for. It's been an eventful year with many positive changes. It will be nice to slow down and enjoy the changes.
In other news, if my internet service does not improve, I am going to have to do something to change it. I can no longer wait for my neighbors to take action. Sitting in their house is unpleasant too...

woes of parking and internet

2011-11-22T08:51:00.001-08:00

Starbuck's. Again to use the internet. Christmas music, packed coffee house and me, trying to get current with my technological fixations. Day off and too much to do.
The other day, I went home to find a car parked in my parking spot. I think this is probably my number one pet peeve. Truly annoying to me when someone takes my spot. Since it was Sunday, I sort of figured that it was one of my neighbor's friends. I knock on their door to see if they know whose car it is.
No response.
I text two of the guys and ask if they know who owns a blue Prius. Ten minutes later one of them texts back that he might know whose car it is and that he would have to check.
I block the car in, write a note and wait. Twenty minutes later, I head out for work. I run into the third neighbor (whom I had not texted) and innocently ask--do you know whose car this is?
Yes. It's one of my friend's or his boyfriend's car. Sometimes they need the spot...what? They need the spot that is my designated spot. I tell the kid that I left to go to Starbuck's to use the internet since mine wasn't working. I continue with, this is my spot that I shouldn't have to fight for and implied if your friend needs a parking spot, well, then, give him one of yours.
The cherry on top of this story is that as I am driving to work, I run into the other two neighbors with their friend who is currently parked in my spot. I made sure that they saw me and drove off.
How can someone feel so entitled? This is what I don't understand. What happened to respecting other people's property and yourself? I mean, obviously, the boys next door understand that I have one of the carport spots. We have been neighbors since September. I have been parking next to them for three months.
Parking in Tempe on Sundays is free. Why is it necessary to park in my spot off street?
I am hoping to have the internet situation resolved by Friday. I am considering my options. Should I wait for the boys to finally get service up and running for me? Or, begin my own account with Cox? I believe that I will wait until Friday and make a decision then. I must have access to the internet.
My sister, Jasmin, had a healthy baby girl yesterday. Emma Raine greeted the world. She is gorgeous and they sent me a very sweet photo of Jasmin and Emma. I look forward to meeting her.
Day off with many tasks to accomplish. With Thanksgiving around the corner, I see myself stocking up on wine, cough drops and a nice outfit. I think I feel it necessary to dress up for the holiday due to my upbringing. I cannot tell you how many times I found myself wearing the exact same dress as my sisters for thanksgiving. (No, I will not show any of the visual illustrations). It's tradition. I must wear something besides shorts.
I am off to begin my day. Hopeful for service at home (soon) and a clear throat....

still no service....

2011-11-20T13:38:00.001-08:00

I still do not have internet service and my neighbors remain indifferent. I have been working, a lot, and so my hours of interaction with them are limited. However, I did almost run one of them over last night since he cut in front of me on his bike. When I arrived home, I told him that I thought it was him on the bike and he agreed. I continued with--by the way....I still do not have internet service. His response, yea, I have friends in town and they were unable to access the wi-fi, too. I don't understand it. I would like to say that it will be fixed soon, but I don't understand why it isn't working...
Then, he ran away.
I had the night off and so I went to a local restaurant to be a "civilian" again. I was unimpressed with my meal and exhausted. Otherwise, I would have pushed for a different establishment. I just didn't have it in me to be persuasive. Moreover, there was a big rivalry football game in Tempe which further limited options. In hindsight, I should have insisted driving into Phoenix to have a nice glass of wine. Post game, my sleep was interrupted by car alarms, fire trucks and the train. Long night, indeed. I considered standing outside to figure out whose alarm was going off every ten minutes for an hour. Who does that?
Today, in an attempt to use service at home, I went to my neighbor's house to borrow their ether cord. The other night, they offered to let me come over whenever I wanted to use this cord. Keep in mind, these are three college students. Their place reeks of cat and boy. Not a great combination to relax in. The one that answered the door seemed surprised to see me and then handed me the cord and shut his door. Surprise. Surprise. No service with the cord either.
Instead of bothering him, I unplugged the cord and am now in a starbuck's. Of course, I love coffee but this is not going to be my solution. The christmas music is a bit much. I can't freely write or relax. No cat smell, thanfully, but still, not a solution to my issue.
I am going to have to break down and get my own service established. Tomorrow or by the end of the week. Must have service so that when I want to use the internet, I can. Friday night I closed the restaurant and walked into my place at 3:40 am. I showered and think, I fell asleep at 4:30. My day shift started at 8. Tough turnaround to say the least and really, all, I wanted to do when I got home was check some things on line. My neighbors cavalierly suggested me using their cord whenever I wanted...until I pointed out my current hour's situation. Then, they didn't seem as interested in helping me.
Work has been fantastic. I love it. I must take time to care for myself though. Laryngitis is an indication of how poor I have been treating myself. Dehydrated, poor diet and lack of running created my current state. Running the Las Vegas 1/2 should be fun in two weeks. I am hoping that Jennifer and Shari will be kind to me with my finish time. Bellagio Spa here I come.
I need to buy plane tickets. Not planning on doing it at the Starbuck's though. Yet, another reason, I need internet service at home. I am annoyed with this situation.....
Beautiful Sunday and I am able to blog now. Must stop complaining about things I am unwilling to change til later next week. I remain hopeful that the boys will fix the internet situation.
Until later....

why I haven't been posting lately

2011-11-18T11:21:00.001-08:00

Laryngitis, no internet at home and lack of sleep. All things that sound fun, right?
Work has been time consuming as of late. Long hours and not truly taking care of myself caught up with me on Monday night. Literally, I walked in my door and couldn't speak. I drank some hot tea and prayed for a voice in the a.m.
As Tuesday progressed my condition worsened. Eventually, the owner looked at me and said--why do you sound like crap? Well, not eating, sleeping or drinking enough water created the laryngitis for sure. It's been fun to say the least.
Last night, I tried the hot toddy remedy. Didn't really do it for me. I switched to a glass of red wine. Some habits are hard to break. After a quick bite to eat, I returned home to try to use my lap top. Since Tuesday, I have been unable to use the internet at home. Apparently, there was a power outage on Tuesday night in southwest Tempe. By morning, the problem had been addressed and it was business as usual for my neighbors. I attempted to go on-line only to find that I was unable to. I marched (literally) over to my neighbor's house since we share the internet at 8 am. I figure they are college students--at least one of them should be awake. I write this note--Hi. Sorry so early. Can't talk. Have laryngitis. Why no internet?
My neighbor was sweet about it. Still not able to help me out. The tech savvy roommate was asleep. This kid slept all day. Meanwhile, I went to work and tried to not sound as raspy or worse, not able to speak at all. I returned home hoping that I would be able to use my laptop. Still, no service.
I text two of my neighbors and inquire about the situation. They mention that I could come over and use their computer if need be. That, to me, isn't a solution. I pay a portion of the internet service and do not want to hang out in their house. It reeks of cat and boy house as it should. The boy part that is. There are three boys living in that house. I don't feel comfortable lounging on their couch or in their space. I want to lounge on my own bed, chair or the floor. Why don't they understand that?
I am seriously considering setting up my own service. Currently, I am sitting in a starbuck's getting my internet fix. The problem with shared service is is that it is limiting. I cannot purchase plane tickets or check a few other password necessary sites. I need internet in the house. Must get it figured out and asap.
I am happy to be productive and working again. Only, I need to make my health a priority too. Laryngitis is no picnic. I never realized how much I talked until I was unable too. Right now, it isn't terrible. Last night I sounded like a robot according to a friend of mine. I didn't appreciate that comparison. I was trying to go for the smoky, hazy voice of Kathleen Turner. Robot reminds me of Lost in Space or the Jetson's. Sexy? Not really.
So, I will hopefully have internet tonight. Or, I will find another wi-fi area to update my livelihood via blog.
Happy Friday!

the last few days

2011-11-12T09:49:00.001-08:00

Busy week and I have neglected my creative outlet. I suck.
Running has subsided. First of all, I wanted a few rest days from last Sunday's 1/2 marathon and then when I arranged a running date, my friend canceled and (honestly) I was extremely relieved to put it off. Now, I look back and know how much I benefit from that activity. This morning, I woke up, and forced myself to go outside and greet the day. I walked to coffee, bank and market. Running would have been preferred but I know that I have a full day of being on my feet. Running will have to wait until tomorrow or Monday.
I am finding it difficult to get a good night's rest as a result. Plus, my mind races each night. Some anxiety, excitment and knowing that I have a lot on plate to accomplish before Tuesday--opening day of the new restaurant that I am working at. I have odd dreams of previous restaurants and random occurrences in general. I tried counting sheep or multiplication tables and neither remedy worked. Finally, I watched an episode of veronica mars to settle my mind. Still, I couldn't sleep.
My food intake has suffered as well. The last few days, I have eaten whatever is put in front of me--french fries (multiple times), greasy gyros, etc. However, it's food and I need it. One day, I think I ate a banana before I left for work and then ate twelve hours later since that was the first opportunity I had to find something to eat. I opted for a slice of pizza--yummy.
My car was in the shop which lengthened my commute and reliance on public transport. In the past I have relied on friends but it isn't their responsibility to get me to and from work. Thankfully, I found a bus that could get me near my mechanics instead of hiring a taxi. I don't even want to think of what that would have cost. When the mechanic called to tell me what I owed him, I was surprised. About $200 more than projected--ouch. The idea of a cab for anywhere from $50-$70 was not an option at that point. Bus, walk, light rail--what have you---needed to work.
Last night the minute I put my head on the pillow, I was out. I slept until about 8 am and am so thankful that I finally got a decent night of sleep. Maybe I am realizing that everything is going to work out. That we are going to be successful and a positive addition to the neighborhood. Of course I have always believed this and the doubts just make me try all the more.
I will update more later. I am late for work~

My idea of Friday

2011-11-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

Siesta seems necessary today. Quick rundown of my Friday. I used public transport for the majority of my day. Didn't really have any other option since Veronica is back in the shop. I took the lightrail to the airport and waited. Lindsay's flight was delayed due to winds, here, and light departure from Denver. I opted to meet her at the security gate since I knew that her phone was no longer functioning. Long story and not really the point.
I listened to my ipod and waited. She arrived and we took a cab to Mill Avenue. I wanted to go to a wine restaurant that has great ambiance. I was hungry and felt like checking it out with Lindsay. Unforuntately, they were no longer serving food and my least favorite bartender was working. This person is really unattentive which surprises me. She has a rockstar job and doesn't seem that interested in customer service from my last two visits.
Regardless, we enjoyed a few glasses of wine and then walked back to my place. I offered to get us a cab as it was raining, but, Lindsay seemed determined to walk. In all honesty, it wasn't that bad. Cold, sure, but I do live nearby. We arrived, I gave Lindsay a tour of my place and then arranged a plate of tapas--guacamole, chips, salsa, vegetables and cheese. Opened some wine and gabbed. First time entertaining in the new rental. I miss my platters that I left in Denver with friends. I will buy some soon. I love drinking wine and entertaining.
I think, we finally, went to bed at 3:30. I am so tired, but I woke up at 8ish. Why do I do this? Instead of fighting it, I opted to make coffee and let Lindsay sleep. She needs it and I didn't want to toss and turn and wake her up, too. Nap sounds awesome.
Tomorrow, we have a half marathon to attend. Today, will be slow motion to ensure a good experience for the event. Otherwise, I would tour more of the Valley and engage in day drinking. Optimal idea for a Saturday.
Excited to explore more of Phoenix with Lindsay. Will update later....

Update on Car while listening to Corinne Bailey Rae and thinking of a recent 1/2 Marathon

2011-11-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

Sounds odd, I know. Last year, I ran a 1/2 with the Goddess, Sara Jo and Sipper. Thinking ahead, I brought cd's to listen to while driving around Napa. Forward thinking until I left them in my bag in the trunk except for one. For a few hours, we listened to Corinne. I love her...I do. Just, it was a little much at the time. Now, I always think of that particular trip when I hear her cd.
This morning, the new shop called me at ten til 7 to apologize for not calling me back last night and following up with my service call. I avoided it since I wasn't ready to drive over yet. Hopeful that I could arrange a tow without involving roadside assistance or a cab back to Tempe after dropping Veronica off. Plus, I needed to do laundry and get supplies for Lindsay's visit to AZ. I drove and ran errands and eventually called the shop. The man had called me, again, to see what my plans were. I was impressed with his tenacity. I called him to explain that I knew I needed service but had been unable to arrange a ride back to the East Valley. He told me that they would drive me back once I dropped Veronica off. Hello, talk about service! Already an improvement from the last shop I found.
I drive about 6 miles and realize that I could go no further without damaging my engine. I call roadside and arrange a tow. Not run especially since my insurance only covered 9 miles of the drive. Stupid in my opinion, but, I got over it and quickly.
I met the owner of the shop and was on my way. His employee drove me home and explained some of their history. Local shop, lots of family and exemplary customer service is what I deduced from the conversation.
About an hour later, they call me and say, yes, you need a new head gasket. This is what we project it to cost and sorry to be the bearer of bad news. Still, I believe I should be able to get my car back early next week. What a difference from the other shop I had been using here. I miss Sweden Pride in Denver. They are honest, fair and always, communicated, what needed to be done in a quick fashion.
I consider the pro's and con's of continuing to service the Volvo. On the positive side, I have had this car since 2005. She's been awesome until recently. And, it's an older vehicle. Things break. Not that I want to sign on for more heartbreak, financially. I just am unwilling to say goodbye. There is still a lot of miles in this car and I know it. And, no car payment which is what I prefer. The idea of finding another used car is daunting. I do have friends that could assist me in this, but I am not ready to let go.
I took the bus to whole paycheck and picked up some wine for Lindsay's visit. I had white but the red factor was light. Had to fix that and quickly.
I figured out how to get to the airport via public transport to pick her up, too. I love city life and how accessible resources are when you want them. Her visit will be interesting without a car. But, I will make it work.
Happy Friday!

Words I keep uttering. of 2011

2011-11-03T20:29:00.000-07:00

My car is in the shop.
Seriously. I have said those words, too many times, this year. I just got Veronica back from the mechanic after I failed emissions. Talk about costly fix for the emissions requirement. The best part of that experience was when I returned to have the re-test, I handed the technician my proof that Ihad had the work completed and he looked at me and said (verbatim)--I don't need that. I was furious.
Yesterday, I was driving to work and and I noticed my temperature gage had spiked. I called a trusted friend and knowledgeable car guy and asked why your car would overheat. His response, either you are out of anti-freeze or your fan is not functioning. Do you want me to turn around and help you? YES. Please. I tell him where I pull over and pray that my car is not seizing up. He arrives and adds some anti-freeze and we wait. He checks the fan out and suggests that I would be fine. Quick fix. Add anti-freeze and presto, problem solved. He takes off and I head out to work. But, the gage remains in the hot zone. I call him and ask him what I should do. He tells me to keep driving and watch the level. Eventually, I pull over, again, and he rechecks the fluids, fan and then says--it's probably your water pump. I would do it for you, but, I don't have time. Take it to any shop, not just volvo specific, and they will be able to fix it.
I call a mechanic that I have used in the past and arrange to drop Veronica today. I knew that I could take public transport back home without too much walking. So, today, everything goes according to plan. I wake up, shower, and drive to Phoenix to drop my car off. I mention what I think it could be and head to the light rail station. Four hours later, I get the call. It is not the water pump, but, potentially, the head gasket. This mechanic feels uncomfortable working on foreign vehicles so he suggests finding a different shop and having it reassessed. He feels this is the issue as to why my car is overheating.
At this point, I consider my options. Returning it to the shop that I have frequented, numerous times, this year. The shop that has frurstrated me and made me crazy. Everytime I drop Veronica off for a short visit, they keep her for 8 plus days. Not to mention, they do not communicate or make me feel confident with their services.
No. This would not be an option. I met a neighbor when I moved in who also has a Volvo. I asked him which shop he used and he handed me a business card and explained his relationship with a shop in the east valley. I figure--why not?
I call them today and immediately felt that this would be the shop. Getting the Veronica there without overheating might be troublesome. I called my roadside assistance through my insurance and they told me they would cover six miles and the remaining 17, I would be accountable for. Seemed ridiculous that they would only cover six but the nearest volvo dealer was six miles away from the original mechanic shop. The roadside would take me there if I wanted. I don't. I have no allegiance or feel for the nearest Volvo shop. Moreover, I drove Veronica home and now have no idea the mileage coverage. I can only hope that I make it there safely.
Tomorrow the Goddess is visiting. I cannot wait to see her. We will tour the Valley on public transport or I will beg for rides. I think I know someone I can bribe with my local eatery. Will update this later regarding the car situation....

Monday Memory (late)

2011-11-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

Love this photo from Sonoma last year. The Goddess, Sipper, Sara Jo and I (connector) winery hopped to celebrate the accomplishment of a half marathon the previous day. I talked them into running with me and chose this particular race, the Healdsburg Half. The next day, we checked out a few wineries between the valleys--Benziger, Imagery, Enkidu, VJB, St. Francis in Sonoma, and Failla in Napa. I wish we had had more time to explore Napa, but, there will always be future visits to one of my favorite spots in the States. Food entices, too. Ahhhh, I miss Napa.
A lovely memory and a hope that we will choose another 1/2 2012. I suggest either Santa Barbara or the traditional Napa-Sonoma route. Of course, I am drawn to the Willamette race since I could see my sisters, too. The possibilities are endless in terms of running a race with friends. Fond memory, indeed.

productive Sunday

2011-10-30T21:14:00.000-07:00

Yay! Found a massage therapist, finally! After struggling through several mediocre massages, I have a gifted therapist.
Ironic, too. As I waited in the office I chatted up the receptionist. She's a student at ASU and friendly. I wanted to know her insight into some of their therapists. We discussed who she felt was great after I told her that I had been having difficulty finding the "one" for me. I noted some of the previous visits and how I did not enjoy trigger release therapy. I think I made some comment that I could be dead and still not feel anything. Granted, later in the day, I do feel the effects of the trigger release. While in the massage, it does nothing for me. Having someone use one hand to apply pressure to one area for 2-3 minutes is not a massage in my opinion.
I digress. I was frustrated that I had not found a therapist that I would be excited to return too. I am a member of this studio and so I have one massage per month until I cancel the membership. I was almost to that point, too. Why pay for a massage that is mediocre? I believe in body maintenance and the benefits of a monthly massage. I want a therapist that I like.
Today, I found him. His focus is on injury and sports massage. Immediately, I sensed that I had found my massage therapist. He reminded me of Sean, my old therapist in Denver. Sean was a runner and so he understood some of my aches/pains. Brandon is similar. After the massage he diagnosed some of my problem areas. I have tenderness in my right ankle that he felt. I go, yea, I sort of forgot to mention my recent sprained ankle.
I am so thankful to have found Brandon. I will return to the studio knowing that my massage will be stellar. Afterwards, I tackled my car. Not only did it need a visit to the car wash, but an interior cleaning as well. I found some leather cleaner in my trunk that I believe Brian had purchased. He loved my car and took care of her. He would be so disappointed in the current state of Veronica. Polished and vacummed. What an improvement. Must remember to do more than once every six years.
Moreover, while attempting to clean up the appearance of my car, I remembered how my dad would wash and wax his vehicles on Sundays. What a process. I think it would take up most of the afternoon. He would beam with pride after he finished washing his car.
Lovely day to be productive. I started the day, late, and thought I need to fix this. My run got pushed to tomorrow and so I opted to be active in other ways. My to-do list is dwindling. I suppose I can find other tasks to accomplish and cross off.
Enjoy your night~

significant day

2011-10-27T21:11:00.000-07:00

10/27/2011--officially the end of birthday month. Bummer! Then, I consider, did I do enough celebrating? No. I spent a big chunk of change on Veronica which decreased my desire to travel or eat. Actually, that isn't true. I was out of town for four days, entertained Shari for four days and used public transport in the meantime.
This birthday was stellar. Of course, I always try to extend it. Next year, I will manage to create more celebrating/less stressing over vehicle. I attained a two year plate so I won't have to deal with dmv until 2013. Even then, I think my car will be an antique. No more testing--thankfully! Must hold out til then.
October 27th also brings about memories of travel. This was my departure date. The night I spent in Los Angeles watching the Rockies get schlacked in the world series. Ugly game. I remember (vividly), wishing they would turn the tv off so I wouldn't watch the blood bath. Talk about rolling over...
Regardless, I left what I felt was my normal life with a travel pack, day pack, rain coat and desire to see the world. That trip inspired this blog, me, my past, present and future. What a day to embark on a new adventure!
A fond memory and beautiful experience. I was funny. I still believe that. I had a lot to work with. Meeting fellow travelers, locals, foods, porta potties, customs, traditions, you name it, I felt it. Lovely day and memory.

Outside my hostel in Voli Voli, Fiji. A couple days into the trip, but, can you say beautiful? Man, do I miss Fiji. Stunning country inspite of the lousy indian meal I experienced on tour.

necessary tasks

2011-10-27T19:15:00.000-07:00

Today, I had the opportunity to help someone put together a resume. Like me it had been years since dealing with this task. I vaguely remember compiling one in high school. It's been a great while. Most jobs that I have held were due to personal relationships or timing. A resume was not necessary until this year.
This past summer it was fun to find a way to promote myself in a creative way. In all honesty, I procrastinated, hoping to get out of it. I really did not want to put it together. I remember looking it over, spell checking, having my sister and another friend dissect it before selecting a nice paper to print it on. Jan, my friend, has oodles of paper to choose from. Love that she had so many choices. Not fun in any way. Still necessary and I am glad that I finally got around to doing it.
I consulted my sister, Michaela, about a template for construction. She e-mailed me a site that would have examples. I considered having her look it over but based on the tone of her e-mail, I knew, that she didn't have time. She has been extremely busy with work. Too stressed to look over another resume.
I sat down with my friend and went over his work history. Drinking wine aided in that process and this morning I noticed how terrible my notes were. I couldn't discern some of the scribble. Darn that wine!
Anyways, I typed it up, looked it over and found difficulty in the selected action words. Operate could only be used once, maybe twice, but definitely not under the same company. There is just not another good word to replace operate when it comes to machinery. Eventually, I told him we should either combine tasks and figure out another responsibility he had while working at specific work sites. We ended it with a reference to personal references. Mine, I listed volunteer work and hobbies. Possibly my favorite part of compiling my work history. Showcasing travel, wine, food, due to being employed.
Regardless, I believe it was decent. No errors in spelling, grammar and when you read it aloud, it flowed. The paper was fine and he got the job. Mostly due to personal references but putting together the resume helped me respect others that I viewed today. I stopped into work to check in and decided to look over some of the applicants. It's shocking how little some people value themselves. Spelling errors, font choice, paper....overall appearance does make a difference. I did not enjoy taking the time to make my resume but I know it looks clean and makes sense. I am just a stickler when it comes to grammar, etiquette and courtesy. Have some pride is all I am saying.
Compiling my friend's was definitely easier since I had experienced this necessary thing a few months ago. And, it deducted some of what I owe him for the road trip from Denver. I don't know if I will ever be able to repay him...

weekend recap

2011-10-27T11:07:00.000-07:00

Wine inspired (induced) weekend. I must take a break from the lovely juice to give my liver a break. Unfortunately, I need to sample wine to figure out the current list that we will be offering at the restaurant. I am determined to spit, not inhale, as is, the normal way I drink wine. Damn Jenn and Rob. They spent the weekend in Tempe and entertained me. Originally, the plan was for Rob to participate in the half ironman in Tempe, but, his training sort of went to the wayside. It became a spectating event instead.
I must say, spectating, at the finish was pretty incredible. Our friends met up during the run and chose to cross the finish line holding hands. Too cute. This married couple have done several events together. He was ahead of her due to his start, but she caught up with him during the run. Their finish was lovely.
Plus, it was nice to lend support at the finish line. There is just something about hearing your name yelled when you accomplish an endurance event. Or, I enjoy it.
Regardless, since it was a spectating weekend, I joined Jenn and Rob and showed them a mini tour of Tempe. We enjoyed my favorite wine spot in Arcadia, they visited me at the cellar and made a brief stop at a brewery. Jenn was a little hungover from Saturday and so our plan of mimosa brunch got kiboshed before it could begin. Thankful for that. Last night could have went south quickly had I started the day with mimosas.
I wish we had had more time to tour the city. I wanted to show them a few more spots before they had to return to Denver. They are always gracious and curious about eateries. I love that. I love dining with people that enjoy food/wine as much as I do.
I think the lunch spot worked best. We shared a bottle of wine while eating an array of tapas--bruschetta, olives, cheese and a salad. I think this is my preferred way to dine. Sampling as many items as possible with friends. We didn't eat at the brewery since they went to In and Out Burger. Apparently, it is a wonderful burger that I have yet to try. I made eggs instead, grabbed a coffee and met up with them to spectate the race. We had some time to explore and so I asked them what they wanted to do. Rob wanted to check out a local brewery and ironically, there was a wonderful one in the area. Somber outing since Jenn was still feeling the wine of Saturday.
We parted ways so that they could fly back to Denver. I continued the Sunday tradition of stopping into the local wine bar. Tried bruschetta this time around. Yummy.
I need to conclude this. I am uninspired as this is the fourth time I have attempted to post this particular event. Either I have had interruptions with the internet or the blogger has been difficult. It's been annoying.

Monday Memory

2011-10-24T12:41:00.000-07:00

Four years ago almost to the day, I was standing in this hotel room in L.A. showing off how I would get around other countries. Looks ridiculous, I know, but how else could I travel for five months with a few belongings? At that point, I still had guidebooks in the bottom of my backpack. Thankfully, I left those with my friends. Talk about uncomfortable. There were several times when I considered chucking all of my clothes since I was tired of carting them around. Limited belongings still weigh something.
Ahhhhhhhhhh....to be traveling. Wonderful memories for sure. I am on a new venture and it feels fantastic. Must figure out ttransportation this afternoon and so I need to conclude this for now. I leave you with this--Smile. Breathe and enjoy your Monday. I am smiling (really) just thinking about that wonderful trip and reason for the blog.

the last few days

2011-10-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Brief vacay and no internet access. Sacrilege (sometimes) and this past week, I enjoyed not being able to connect easily. It forced me to go outside and enjoy the sunshine.
Denver is always a welcoming city. I love it there and believe that it will always be my home. I had the opportunity to fly home, visit friends and collect my belongings. I wanted to display my conch shell and thankfully, I did pack it amongst the random boxes of stuff that I wanted to keep but not bring in my car. Decisions, decisions. When I began my find myself trip, I had to make decisions about what should go with me and what needed to be left behind. The conch shell was one of those things that was packed away to be rediscovered at a later date. I was thrilled when I unwrapped it yesterday.
Anyways, I had a whirlwind trip to Denver and managed to see some friends. Not enough time, though, to do everything that I had intended to do. I feel awful that I was unable to see my aunt and it was completely my fault. I ran out of time and began enjoying chimays. My day sort of got away from me. The intent was to meet her for dinner but the day went askew when my friend, Chipper, was delayed on the road. Initially, the plan was to meet up at noon for lunch and then assess how to arrange my things. Due to an accident on 1-80 he did not arrive until almost five pm. In an attempt to see people and amuse myself with stories/updates, I met my friend, Melissa, for lunch at cap grille. Lovely to see her and inspired with wine and decandent food. Plus, I knew the bartender and manager which is always a nice perk of being in the service industry. Lunch extended and before I knew it, my window to meet for dinner had closed. It just all got away from me.
And, as much as I wanted to see everyone, I couldn't make Chipper sit through a parade of important people in my life. It isn't for him. And, I knew that. Sure, I wanted to see everyone and get updated on how life was treating them, but I had to think of him, too. He offered to pick up my things and I needed to keep him somewhat happy, too. There will be other trips and of course, I will see my aunt and others for sure.
I started out sprinting with the friends and it continued until we left the city. I managed to dine at watercourse, elway's, solera and pick up a breakfast burrito at santiago's. Not to mention spend time with the goddess, sara jo, jenn, Steve, GQ and a few other friends that I had not seen in a great while. Running into Dave was a lovely surprise, too. I ran into him at a coffee shop near his house. I think it surprised both of us and then we were both regretful that it concluded so quickly. Again, I see myself enjoying wine with him in the future. He is building a wine cellar in his basement that definitely interests me. Yep, I see Denver in my future.
I need to update more but I have a lot of things to figure out this morning. Veronica is still at the shop since my mechanics suck. There is no polite way to say it. I dropped my car off ten days ago and due to lack of communication, on their part (per usual), I must find a new mechanic. I understand ordering parts and having them delivered but once they received them (yesterday), they should have begun work on my car immediately. Instead, they said, well, maybe Monday or Tuesday. WTF? Get my car fixed. I need it to function in this city. As such, I am off to pick up my rental so that I can attend to my priorities.
Enjoy today. I have friends, in town, here, so I am sure I will have more stories to blog about.....

Monday Memory--Fiji

2011-10-17T07:23:00.000-07:00

Overcast day in Fiji. Delightful. I love the image of the clouds. Hope you enjoy, too! I am off to run errands, pack and confirm flights...

fond memory

2011-10-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

I think this is my favorite photo of my dad and Dori. Pure bliss and happiness. I have no idea where it occurred, the time frame or anything outside of how happy they both look.
I spoke to my dad earlier today about her tribute video and what it meant to me. It took me awhile to view it. My dad and I do not see eye to eye on faith. I had a feeling that it would be a little much for me to watch due to the music. Finally, I overlooked my fears of catholicism and watched the video. Lovely tribute to my stepmom. Several photos from her childhood, early adult and then her life with my dad. They traveled, every year, to destination unknown. Sometimes to see the grandkids and other siblings and other times, for them. I am thankful that my dad has numerous photos from their adventures.
I saw a few photos of me, included--one from their wedding day ( I wore a red shirt, who does that?), a nice one from the race for the cure, 2009, with my dad and Dori. I wish they would have included the one with my aunt Bryn, too, since she walked the race with Dori, while, I chatted up my dad. I continued watching the flick and thought, I wonder, if they included a picture of Brian.
And, there it was...a picture of me standing between Dori and Brian from Denver, 2003. It broke me. I lost it. Sad for sure. It reminded me of a beautiful day spent in Denver. The newness of our relationship, the blending of families and great coffee. I believe we found a delightful shop so that I could satisfy my need for caffeine.
I think he listened but wasn't hearing my thoughts. It seemed like it's hitting him...the loss. Routines help, of course, but there is solitude where your mind wanders to sadness, melancholy and loss. Moments where you feel like a wave smacked you and you react in the best way you know how. For me, that meant crying or looking at photos of my life with Brian.
Tonight, I celebrate my dad's life with this incredible woman. She made him extremely happy. Cheers~

How I spend my Sunday

2011-10-16T19:56:00.000-07:00

Walk around area day number two...found the preferred street to frequent. Quiet, beautiful and a nice thoroughfare. Untouched, as of yet, of grafitti or street walkers. Clean. It has a bike lane and mostly filled with cyclists. Sunday is the ideal day for a ride. Several people were out enjoying the beautiful day.
I walked up to a marketplace and made use of a birthday gift. This has definitely been my year of bra is all I am saying. Hail to the secret. Managed to pick up perfume mister in addition to a few other necessary items. I am finding my ideal scent. In all honesty, heavenly, has always been a favorite. Branching out some, 2011. Gotta say--I love gift cards!
Afterwards, hungry, I considered my options. Return to rental and make a salad. Only that did not sound that appeasing. I wanted a sandwich and a glass of wine. That sounded divine. Attempting to talk myself out of it--the wine factor--I thought of what else could work. Biking up to Whole Foods and having a custom sandwich which could work or there were a few other eateries that did not have wine. Really, as you can see, I was trying to be "good". I envisioned hummus or pitas and knew of a spot but that required more walking. At this point, I wanted convenience...oh, and wine.
I walked into the eatery that I knew had half price wine during the day. Yep, that sold me. Wine wins another Sunday. Ironically, knew the bartender, too. I sat there and he goes, you know, I remember you. I visited Denver in 2005 to attend a football game, being a colts fan, and you waited on me....what? All I could think was... was it a good experience? I didn't ask that since I know that it was. I mean, come on, if he mentioned it, obviously, I made a good impression.
We chatted about Denver, somewhat, and other associations we shared. He knows my friend, Kat, and lives near where I work. I ordered a turkey, brie and fig sandwich--delightful and enjoyed a few glasses of wine. Perfect way to spend a Sunday.
I made a to do list and thought about my life. Eventually, another person sat at the bar. However he was on his phone. Annoying and unpleasant. (Pet peeve #3, behind, clipping toe nails in public or licking fingers while eating hot wings or any other type of greasy food..yuck)! I overheard him say sous chef and another local spot that I knew the owner. So, being me, and nosy, I ask him if he worked there and he goes--no, I work at Kona. Funny. I know a few people that work there, too.
This guy is moving to Spain to seek a new life. Good for him! I think it is awesome. He made some left field comment about always being able to rely on working in a kitchen like it was a maintenance job. I interjected--I love chefs. I love food. You are fortunate to be skilled in that department.
Sure, I am confident in the kitchen but getting a position in a kitchen is definitely out of my wheel house. I was little offended that he played it off like it meant nothing. Come on, you work with food! Exciting~
I wished him luck with his future endeavors. Spain is fantastic from what i hear and I was off. Off to siesta and eventually do another walkabout. Salad for dinner. I love it!

I've still....got it.....sort of

2011-10-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

I skipped my a.m. run yesterday and practiced yoga. This helped clear my mind; and yes, I felt peaceful. Yoga has multiple benefits.
Anyways, since I missed my mandatory long run, I decided to walk to work. I figured it would be six to seven miles. Piece of cake and there was always the option of jumping on the light rail as a back up plan. The light rail ends about a mile and a half from work and so I would be able to extend my mileage on the end of the route. I begin, armed with a 32 ounce bottle of water, a change of clothes (thank god) and my ipod.
The initial part of the walk is lovely as it is near the campus and there are many other people walking around. Great energy/vibe of other pedestrians, cyclists and kids on skate boards. The weather, well, a little warmer than I had anticipated. Still, I was enjoying it. I saw sorority girls struggling to wear heels or wedges across campus. There was a car wash on the corner with scantily clad coeds advertising their service. Seriously, the could use a little less exposure is all I am saying.
I continue and about a half mile later the vibe changes. Definitely not as many college kids and suddenly it feels a little ominous. I remember having those exact same feelings, years ago, when I walked around this area of town. It's been cleaned up (tremendously) with the addition of the light rail. It had to be. They knocked down some of the RV Parks and hotels that were filled with transients and junkies. On the surface, yes, it appears to be cleaner. Yet, it feels dirty if that makes sense.
As I continue east, I encounter less and less college students and more single men walking. I begin to notice that I am getting more attention. This one guy in a truck pulls up next to me and asks if I need a ride. I ignore him and he continues driving through the parking lot parallel to me and waits to see if I respond. I don't. I continue walking.
The honking starts and that is when I know I still have it. Or, that they think I am a "professional". You know, the street kind. I see a few of those ladies too. I am left alone outside of being stared at from vehicles, RV parks and side walks. I didn't feel threatened. I made it to work unscathed with a bump for the ego. Several cars noticed me is all I am saying.
About an hour in, I locate a Walgreen's and choose to enter the store. The water was not doing it. I needed a gatorade. It tasted divine. At this point I was in a "safer" part of the east valley. It no longer felt ominous or eerie. It felt mormon and it was. I saw some uniformed kids on bikes hoping to convert people and a garage sale on a random corner. This guy waited til I passed him and then started talking to me. He said, wow, hot day. I continued walking and he did offer me a water since I looked hot. I declined since I already had gatorade.
I walk into work and head directly to the walk in cooler. I stand in there a few minutes and consider what items I have with me to aid me in the cooler down factor. Grateful for the top and bra that I remembered to bring. I change, splash water on my face and then notice the salt on my face. Yes, it was hot and I had lost some electrolytes. Salty. Reminded me that I had skipped my mandatory run.
I wish I had a shower, too. Cold water and fresh clothes helped, but I still felt warm. I dreamed of my shower for the rest of the night.
I was retelling my adventure through the hood and mentioning the catcall factor when a few customers said--do you have mace...you should really carry it. You know you walked through an unsavory area.
My feelings are this--yes, it is unsavory and I walked during the day. I didn't feel scared. It was an adventure. Granted, I had no interest in walking back to the light rail at night. I arranged for one of my co-workers to drive me back to either the light rail or Tempe. I am naive to a certain degree but unwilling to put myself at risk knowingly. Walking at night seemed foolish.
The first thing I did when I got home was shower. Glorious. Wash away the salt build up and discovered the spots I had missed applying sunblock. Awesome, I have a sunburn....guess I got that too.

2011-10-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

Sleep did not improve. Restless night of trying to sleep and losing the battle. Hence, skipped run and opted for yoga. I thought, maybe, this could calm my mind of all of its washing machine of thoughts. Seriously, I feel like I am in a spin cycle the last 24 hours. Positive things are occurring yet my subconscious wants to create doubt. If I let it, I am sure that I can self-sabotage. I am not going to, though. Not this time. I am in the exact place that I chose to be. When I think about it in that light, I know I will overcome any of my own self-imposed negativity.
Not to mention, I am listening to pandora and LeAnne Womack's song, I hope you Dance is playing. Lovely song and an association from my past. Brian and I had decided to go to Honduras in 2005. Since he was younger, he always struggled to save money. Inherently, he was generous to all of his friends and unable to save for some of our trips. Naturally, my wisdom tried to advise him to save cash for my impulsive need to travel. For Christmas, that year, his parents gave us the book, i hope you dance and placed book marks through it. There were eight book marks representing a letter. We tried to figure out what it said--from the letters, I deducted--our hands.
Brian looked at it and said, no, it's Honduras. Duh....we were going there. Plus, they gave us some money to enjoy while in Honduras. And, enjoy we did. We flew into San Pedro Sula, spent the night and then took the bus to the coast. Took a ferry (two hours too long) to Roatan and spent the next six days there learning how to scuba dive. Originally,we thought we would spend three days on the island and then return to the mainland. The resort dive changed everything. We extended our island adventure which allowed us to dine at Los Arcos, three times. Awesome argentinian eatery in Roatan. We were certified to scube dive which led to a birthday adventure in Cozumel which is another story.
After the island, we spent a night in La Ceiba at an outdoor adventure camp. They offered white water rafting or horse back riding. We were interested in the accomodations and skipped the optional activities. A german couple owned this little gem of a hotel. I remember their rottweiler fondly. He loitered on our patio for a few hours. Beautiful dog. Super friendly and I would imagine, loyal. We found that place on a lark. Our first impulse was to stay at a green resort. The rate was $250 a night and somehow, I had convinced Brian we should do it. We took a cab to the resort only to discover that they were booked for the night. They suggested this little treasure. I think it was $8 a night and they provided a wonderful family oriented meal that night.
Glorious trip until we got food poisoning on our return to San Pedro Sula. It seemed so innocent. We ordered a pork sandwich and watched a League of Their Own. The couple that owned the diner had lived in Miami and their young daughter spoke english, relatively speaking. That night, well, I won't go into detail. All, I will say, is that it was not fun. I skipped pork, anything, for awhile, too.
Sometimes, I overanalyze things when they are simple. Create difficulty for no reason. I am in a great place in my life and the possibilities are endless. Why self-doubt? It's natural, I suppose. Must breathe through it and accept that I am ready for the upcoming challenges. I will get through the self-doubt.
Enjoy your morning. Yes, the yoga did help...

Insomnia related to too much thinking

2011-10-15T06:42:00.000-07:00

Insomnia. Instead of tossing/turning another round, I decide to go on-line. Not a solution for the insomnia as I find myself thinking more. Nonstop analyzing. Mind racing. What is the deal?
I suppose there is a lot going on in my life--car, work, travel, pursuing wine, wanting nonstop travel, food, running. Not necesssarily in that order or even order of importance. My car is problematic to a certain degree. I am frustrated with the mechanics and the fact that I need to have this problem fixed. I love my car and really it isn't that big of a deal. It's just money. That is what I need to remember. Let it go and move on.
Running. I went hiking on my birthday and twisted my ankle. I did not recover the way I normally do. Perhaps since I didn't baby my ankle like I had in the past. I worked and then decided to ice it. Foolish. As a result, I have been gingerly walking on it the last few weeks. Delaying the return to running, hoping, that my ankle will feel better. I have stretched, iced, and increased the frequency of yoga. Last Tuesday, I went running and it felt okay. A little tight in the beginning but then I was able to enjoy the activity. I think I will tape it to stabilize my ankle and run the 1/2 that I signed up for in November. This half is going to be epic. The Goddess is running it with me and it benefits breast cancer awareness. That issue is close to my heart. I am thankful to be able to run in honor of my stepmom, Dori.
My dad sent me a tribute that was shown at the service for her. It was a nice photo array from her life. I enjoyed seeing Dori as a child and most of the photos of her travels with my dad. That is something that they definitely enjoyed. I noticed several photos from their trips to Oregon and a few from Denver and Estes Park. I don't know who chose the photos of me, but I was thankful for the one which illustrated our Race for the Cure in 2009. My dad, Dori, Bryn and I walked together. A beautiful memory for sure.
I continued watching and thought, I wonder if they included any photos of Brian in the arrangement. The video continued and there he was with Dori and me in front of a coffee shop near the Platte River. I remember, that day, fondly. It was the first time my dad and Dori spent any time with me and Brian. They visited us in Denver and we were trying to tour guide and show them a pleasant time. When I saw the photo, my heart ached. Maybe that is the reason behind the insomnia. Sadness for loss.
I knew it would be difficult to watch and believe that is why I delayed it. There was a photo of Michaela, her whippet, Pete, and Dori on Michaela's red couch. That photo made me chuckle, even now, I am smiling at that photo. I guess I miss Pete, too.
I believe that everything will be fine and that soon, I will be able to sleep. I have upcoming travel, more running, and always wine. After making a few adjustments in my schedule, the next few days will be interesting. No car which motivates me to be interesting. Should I bike to work or take the light rail? Cab? Walk? What is my best option? I suppose I will figure it out at some point.
Til then, I hope to experience a night of pure sleep. Sweet Dreams!

obviously, I love my car....

2011-10-14T18:20:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm...emissions test....why is it so necessary?
As my plates approached expiration, I considered my options. Get car tagged here or venture back to Denver and deal with the emissions test. As much as I love Denver ( I do and feel it is always home to me), the thought of driving for that test left me cold. Instead, I became an adult and got my test here. Sitting through the procedure, I had a sense of foreboding. I knew that I was going to fail this test. Don't know how, but, knew it. Yep. Failed the evaporation part of it. They kindly tell me that I need to have my car fixed, hand me a diagram and point to a list of available mechanics in the area.
I have a mechanic. It's a love/hate relationship I have decided. They suck at communication and the second visit left me feeling like I should locate a new shop. However, due to convenience, I dropped Veronica off, Wednesday. I had prearranged an appointment--2 pm--knowing, it was likely they wouldn't figure out problem til Thursday a.m.
No call, all day, yesterday. Finally, I call them as they are closing and leave a message. I like knowing what is going on. At 6, they call me back and say--we haven't determined the problem yet. We will begin, again, first thing tomorrow morning.
I wait. And wait. Did I mention that I waited, all day, til 4:20 (irony here) to get a call. They replaced a hose and retested the pressure. Still unable to pressurize led to more testing. Finally, they discover the problem located on top of my fuel tank. Cheap parts, but the labor issue, well, that is the thing. Of course, they need to order parts and maybe get them Monday. Which means, I won't see my car this weekend or, at all, til next weekend. I am so freaking annoyed.
I called my dad and he says--maybe it's time to get a new car....Other people have suggested this and I know it is an option. But, I am not there yet. Yes, this sucks and I am angry, but even if I had a newer vehicle, I would still have to deal with the emissions issue.
Next time, I am seeking out other mechanics purely to find someone that knows how to communicate in a manner of which I am accustomed. This wait around b.s. is over! Why make appointments if they are not going to be honored? Seriously, I could have avoided the $30 cab ride on Wednesday.
I have a good life. I have great support and ultimately, I am happy. I love my car, too. I will stop ranting now...promise.
Enjoy your night!

future road trips

2011-10-13T21:21:00.000-07:00

I see a trip to home in my near future.
Must make it happen. Actually, I did make it happen. Thought about it, envisioned, and presto, trip home to grab items is happening. It entails a road trip and some bud lite--I think. No, not for me, but for my gracious host. The man that offered to pick up my belongings and bring them to my current rental. This guy is a gem. He likes Bud Lite...uncertain of how to break him of this habit. Plan on giving him my stock after we drop off my belongings. He can have all of the said beer.
Cannot wait to be home and see friends. I am uncertain of when to meet up with my road trip factor. I would love to have coffee with Sara Jo, see Jenn K, Goddess and others. The trip will be short, sweet and to the point. If only, I had more time.
It's not really my time line that I am concerned about either. It's the bud lite factor. He is the tour guide and if he chooses to take off (immediately) what can I say? It's his choice as he is the pilot of the trip. I mean, I have friends (several) that I would love to see. Coffee, wine, food. Did I mention my fravorite eatery in Denver?
Unfortunately, certain that my desire to eat well could color my friend's taste. Yes, I am in love with food. There are restaurants that I dream about. However, this trip is quick and impulsive. Hoping to meet up with friends and enjoy the city.
It's happening. Soon and then I will return to life in the valley. It is right and felt right, in march. Glad that I went down this path.
Of course, would love to spend three days in the metro area. Food, wine, friends. Still, think it's impulsive and about convenience. Not pushing the envelope this time...

2011-10-13T17:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I dropped my car off, again, to have some work done. Failing an emissions test has consequences.
I had other responsibilities, too. Wine tasting, wine tasting, wine tasting. Tough day, right? I dopped my car off and then hoped (prayed) that I would be able to convince a friend of mine to pick me up. He was in town, ironically, also having his emissions test done. He, too, failed. I texted to see where he was but after the failed emissions, he had other plans. I walked to a lovely wine bar and considered my options. Walking home was out of the question and so I chose to have a glass of wine. I walked in to a crowded eatery and the bartender greeted me immediately.
Gracious and helpful. He pointed out that there were a few seating options. One between two older gentleman; or a chair, down the bar, by a guy standing up on the phone. I opted for the seat near the two men. They seemed less obnoxious.
I sat down, ordered a wine and minded my own business. I chatted with the bartender, somewhat, and looked around the bar. They had a nice crowd with most people enjoying the remainder of happy hour. They advertise $5 wine, all day/everyday, from 11-5. Yes, I love this special. I think it is awesome and their selection is quite splendid. Changes quarterly and always innovative.
I was scoping out their strategy, admittedly, too. Super comfortable place where most people feel confident enjoying wine or beer alone. I like the concept.
Eventually, I did converse with the two gentleman. I asked how they met and if they meet once a month for wine. Watching their interactions implied they met often. They informed me that they met at a coffee shop eight years ago. The barista knew them and made a point to introduce them as she felt they had similar interests. They both were kind customers that frequented the coffee shop, solo. Her introduction led to eight years of coffee shops, happy hours and conversations. Really sweet.
I think the entire time I talked to those guys, the other available seat guy was on his phone, ranting about who knows what? He seemed skittish. He was up on his phone the entire time. Why go out, in public, if all you are going to do is rudely talk on your phone?
Regardless, I finished my wine and took a cab back home. Now I know what that costs if I want to hang out in that area of town. Too bad the light rail does not go there yet.
And, I have a new coffee shop to check out if I am interested. The two gentlemen mentioned their daily coffee shop and that I should check it out sometime. I just might.
In terms of my car, I have still not heard anything from my current shop. It must stop. I made an appointment and feel they should honor that commitment I made to work on the car. At least call and update. Without any communication it leads me to believe that my car is sitting exactly where I parked it. Awesome.
Unfortunately, I need my car and miss her. I don't know how to convey to the shop the importance of communication regarding my car without finding a new mechanic. I am almost there as this is the third visit, third lack of communication...my patience is thin. What to do? What to do?....

another encounter with unpleasantries

2011-10-11T10:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a lovely day. Yoga in the a.m. instead of attempting a mid-morning run. I made scrambled eggs for lunch (delightful) with some tasty salsa, followed by an easy breezy shift. Steady amount of people--some new, some regulars--until my least favorite customer returned. Let me back up some...I met this guy a few weeks ago when he first made an appearance. Initially, he seemed harmless, liked wine, seemed knowledgeable and owned a yoga studio. He gave me a complimentary class card which peeked my interest. Not going to lie....I enjoy yoga and needed to find a new studio that was location friendly and reasonable. Rates for yoga classes are not cheap. In Denver, I frequented a studio where I was paying $120 a month for unlimited classes. At first, this didn't bother me. The more you went, the less it was. I think I was down to $5/per class which I was benefitting from. I enjoy yoga...I do.
However, I prefer when studios cap classes. This chain of studios does not practice that which annoyed me after a while. I grew tired of having to arrive, super early, to ensure an unemcumbered space. Even then, there were numerous times when people would arrive late and expect to move me over to find a touch of space to practice yoga. For those of you who don't know...yes, I have, space issues. Eventually, I canceled my membership out of annoyance for the class size.
Back to the story...this man offered me an opportunity to practice yoga. I overlooked some of his amorous advances until they wouldn't stop. He was aggressive and out of control. Quote unquote--guess my age...come on, you should....and if you guess wrong, you have to kiss me....RIGHT. Like I would even consider this. Older, bloated personality, unattractive man. Not to mention, he was cheap. 10% cheap. Never going to happen.
When he finally left, one of the other customers turned to me and said--wow, that guy was a dick.
Couldn't have said it better myself.
Hoped that this guy would wake up and realize what a jackass he had been and never step foot into the establishment again. I had decided to skip any sort of appearance at the yoga studio and I wrote him off.
Until he reappeared last week and acted like nothing had happened. No. this time, he ate bar snacks while licking his fingers, excessively, to the point where no one else wanted to touch the bowl of snacks. I kept envisioning how he would eat hot wings and was mortified at the image. My eyes were bleeding to say the least.
That night, he didn't mention his behavior.
Last night, there is a foursome that had been amusing me. I see the guy walk down the stairs and immediately, I am annoyed. Great, I think. I am going to have to deal with this moron again. The foursome close out and I am like--ouch--how am I going to survive being alone with him?
It lasted five minutes. During this time, he chose to say--I feel that I was a little amorous the first time I met you.
Surprised and so I say--I appreciate that.
He couldn't let it lie and he continued with...I was overserved....
Really? You call that an apology? Right. I now know you are a complete jackass.
Another customer descends to break up the monotony. I am grateful to the interloper and head upstairs to talk over the moron to my co-workers. They concur that the guy is a complete dick.
I return downstairs and the yoga guy starts in again...did you accept my apology?
I said, yea. (not extremely convincing).
He responds--well, so, you will check out my yoga studio....
Talk about not giving up or letting it go. He managed to bring up me taking a yoga class three more times until finally, he paid his tab and left. I felt like I needed a shower when he finally made his exit.
Yes, extremely unpleasant man to deal with but at least it provides comedy for others....

Monday Memory

2011-10-10T09:44:00.000-07:00

Ahhh.....happy to repost this. My trip to D.C. to visit Marc and Megan a few years ago. Had a wonderful time with Megan. We toured the city and did some of the necessary tourist things--check the out the White House and some of the neighborhoods. Walking everywhere to absorb the energy of D.C.
Of course, we stopped for wine to satisfy my love of bar hopping in other cities. This was at one of Megan's places where they offer greek wine. I enjoyed it too.
This is reminder to me that I must call her and see how life is on the East Coast.
Happy Monday. I feel great~

2011-10-09T21:24:00.000-07:00

Viva las vegas...isn't that a song? Or a theme? A saying?
Finally, I booked a hotel for my upcoming half marathon. Talk about being lazy..yes, that is me. Lazy. A ton going on. However, knew that I needed to figure it out. Similarly, to the Phoenix 1/2, work, wine, upcoming travel and currently, watching Veronica Mars. Loved that show. Yes, adore cult shows...some of them...that is. This show was awesome. Bummed that it got canceled.
I watched a movie, early, today and had to wait, watch, savor, wait, and hope for the internet connection to struggle. The movie was awful. About a young girl that fell for the advances of an older man on line and the fall-out it created for the family. I watched and kept thinking--how do you (as a 14-yr-old) justify, that it being intimate with a 35-yr-old is normal? It began as I am in high school. He hooked her into his b.s. and said--I am twenty.
Actually, I am a grad student. do you hate me?
A fourteen year old girl has no idea how to deal with an older man. Especially, a middle aged man that seems reasonable. He plays to her naivety. Her immaturity.
I thought you could handle this.......you told me you could.....remember when you talked to me the last few months?
Yep...hook, line, sinker.
Simple girl. Unknowing and awful flick, for sure. Especially when it kept stalling and making me reboot the system. No bueno, for sure....
Adore veronica mars and am extremely thankful to watch it, again.

staples in my kitchen

2011-10-09T20:05:00.000-07:00

I was walking, aimlessly, and considering my livelihood. Recently, I have been more adept at cooking. Well, not in Mexico. For whatever reason, Jonny, always insists on making meals. Like I am inept in the kitchen which is a complete joke. For real. I know how to use knives in addition to boiling water. Not that he is bad...he's not. He just doesn't even consider that perhaps I could make a meal. The other night he made bacon wrapped steak. It was okay. Out of anything, inferior product. Not skill. I did enjoy the black beans. He's made eggs in the past and always does everything. Thankfully, he lets me at least clean up after the meal.
Anyways, I was walking around enjoying the beautiful weather and considering my lifestyle. I realized that there are things that I cannot live without. First off--carrot cake. I texted the Goddess to let her know that I have still not found carrot cake to celebrate my birthday. WTH? I cannot believe that I have went on this long without the delightful carrot cake. Again, remember, this is a want, not a staple in my kitchen.
Nope, I always have onions, garlic and olive oil. These are things that I cannot live without. Well, and of course, wine. I always have wine in my house. That would be sacrilege to not have at least one bottle to offer someone. (or myself after a strenuous day...)
I enjoy tomatoes, avocados, tortillas and salsa. All things that I typically keep stocked. When I was in college, I had nothing outside of wine and coffee. I believe my sisters can all attest to that. I have always worked in restaurants where it is easier to dine there then come home at 2 a.m. and eat a meal. Regardless, I enjoy hummus and cucumbers too. Do you see the theme? Lots of vegetables and eggs, too. Must perfect the technique on that one. I love eggs in the morning with tortillas and salsa.
Currently have bud lite too. I know...you are shocked. I am shocked and it's not mine. I loathe bud lite. In all honesty, I drink budweiser with my dad since he has it stocked at his house. I don't mind it and it's fine. Bud Lite is a different story and obviously, this is stocked for a guest that prefers this beverage. Otherwise, no bud lite. Just porter and wine....I am hoping to unload the unwanted beer soon too. I think it implies that I like it...which I don't. Cannot help it. I am a snob. Yep, can say it. I am a food snob.
A few weeks ago, Shari visited and said--my sisters think you turned me into a foodie or snob. Either way, I am happy to have that title. Why put crap into your body that isn't enjoyable or good for you. I cannot even remember the last time I have had fast food. Well, in the Bahamas, I ate fried chicked on the boat, after snorkeling, and it was excellent. No lie. I truly enjoyed the chicken.
I see a breakdown in the near future to appease a certain someone to illustrate that I am not completely high maintenance. They offer salad, right? Or, I have always loved the frosty factor at Wendy's. Ice cream is in my blood.
So, yes, I have staples in my kitchen....onions, garlic, salt, olive oil, wine, coffee/creamer, tortillas and a mix of vegetables. I can absolutely sustain on this.

return to mexico

2011-10-09T10:02:00.000-07:00

This past week, I decided to visit the beach. I called my friend (texted--actually) and asked if he would be around this upcoming week. He responded that he was probably heading to the States to deal with car issues and said, come down tomorrow. I am off til Friday.
Since I had a few days free and I failed the emissions test, I figured why not? I asked a few guys about the likelihood of me not making it to Mexico and back safely. Each one felt confident that Veronica would perform fine. I packed a bag and headed south. For the first time, ever, I got stopped on the mexican side of the border. Unbelievable. This guy directed me to a parking spot and I waited. And waited and waited. I knew that I couldn't take off and not be chased. So, I sat there, patiently waiting, to be addressed. I saw a few others get stopped too.
The agent asked me a few questions and I was off. No big deal, at all. Honestly, I get more grief from the u.s. agents on a routine basis. Do you have family in Rocky Point? Why are you visiting? Where do you live in the States? What do you do? etc....all, I think is, why do you care?
Regardless, I follow the signs to Puerto Penasco and am tranquil. Peaceful until the road stops in front of a circus. Yes, not kidding. Road deadended into a circus. I turned around and considered my options. I could try to figure it out or stop and ask a kind woman, preferably. I could try to call Jonny. I turned my phone on. No service in Mexico since i hadn't set it up. Not to mention, you hear stories of people stealing access to cell phones in other countries. Nope. Phone was not going to work.
I look around and again, assess, the situation. Unfortunately, all I encountered was the police or gas station attendants. I chose door #2. I approached an attendant and asked him how to get to the road to Rocky Point.
His response--I don't speak english...right?!!!
I listened to him explain it to me in spanish. I told him thank you and good day. His response. Your welcome. No english my ass.
I found the road and headed to Rocky Point with no further issues. When I arrived, Jonny, was like--I thought your car broke down. Jesus! It took you a long time to get here.
Two days in Rocky Point. Blissful. The water was exceptional and the first day was long and full of laughter. The second day, we had mimosa brunch with some of Jon's friends and enjoyed the beach. That night we watched baseball and a movie. Semi-lame, but Friday meant I would be returning to the States and Jon would be working. I have seen him function, hungover, and it isn't pretty. Definitely made the right decision to have an easy Thursday as opposed to a raging experience.
Grateful that I chose to drive down too. It was beautiful and a nice change from the desert. Love the beach~

recently

2011-10-09T08:51:00.000-07:00

Good morning, Sunday~
Finally, beautiful weather. No a/c necessary. Pure sleep in weather. Love it! Grateful for this. The last few weeks I have actually formulated somewhat funny stories only to try to post them, here, and not be able to. Talk about extremely frustrating. Finally, last night, I was able to post a few things that have happened but they seem disconnected. Darn the connection about my place. It is a continual struggle to establish good service. I must look into the wi-fi issues as it is not working for me.
Regardless, the last few weeks have been about compassion and travel. I spent five days in Missouri visiting my dad and Dori. I saw Jade and Jasmin, too, and corresponded with Michaela frequently. She was unable to fly out that particular week. It was bittersweet to be there knowing that Dori was approaching the end of her life. We celebrated her birthday on the 22nd so that I could be part of the celebration. Homemade cake, flowers and the love of family surrounded her. I wished her peace and told her I loved her.
The following Tuesday she passed away. Sad, bittersweet, but peaceful, too. Watching her lay there and not be able to communicate her needs was devastating to us all.
I went hiking, that Tuesday, to clear my head and celebrate my life. While hiking, I twisted my ankle and had to laugh about it. I had overheard this couple discuss the ankle factor and ten minutes later I twisted mine. Awesome.
I picked Shari up from the airport and we explored the valley. Checked out my favorite restaurants and she met my friend, Jonny. For once, he was semi-normal...not ultra hyper or ADDish. He treated us to dinner and drinks at a local eatery and amused us with stories.
We talked about daydrinking, Wednesday, relying on public transport and exploring the downtown area only work demanded his return. Bummed, for sure, since Jonny always knows fun places to explore. I figure there is always next time to show Shari more of his color.
Instead, Shari and I met up with Jan for a lovely meal. We tried tapas. Lovely way to enjoy a meal. Brief encounter but Jan had other priorities to contend with. Her husband was out of town on a fishing vacation and her dogs needed attention.
Prior to our dinner with Jan, Wednesday offered us a chill sort of day. I iced my ankle and Shari read my library book. The Dogs of Babel is a beautiful engrossing story. I have read it a few times and Shari, too, got caught up in the tale. If you have time and enjoy a wonderful novel, check it out.
Thursday Shari and I went on our mandatory six mile walk. Somehow, we manage to find a lengthy walk on our visits. Afterwards, we were sitting at a brewery when Shari exclaims--I really want another tattoo. Twenty minutes later, and we both are seated in chairs to have work done. Talk about impulsive, spontaneous and the ideal way to celebrate the birthday visit. I really love that we did this. I still cannot believe that I got a tattoo but I love what it signified for me. I feel extremely healthy/happy/peaceful in life.

2011-10-09T00:40:00.000-07:00

I am experiencing some difficulty with posting lately. I had lovely tales to tell, too. Birthday month, friends visiting, tattoos--real and fake ( more entertaining and thankfully, I deleted proof from my camera is all I am saying), hiking, food, wine and of course, life in general.

Random dreams. Seriously, nonsensical dreams. Reflecting back on them, I am like--where did this come from...i did what?

Or, the recent interaction with this yoga owner who should be promoting peace and serenity and instead reeks of slimyness and distrust. Seriously, initially, I was excited to meet him and find a new studio to practice yoga. That elated feeling lasted maybe ten minutes. After talking with him and seeing how he was looking at me, well, I altered my opinion of his studio. He exuded filth. Not kidding. Just sensed that he would be the type to install cameras in the changing rooms for his own personal enjoyment.

When he left, last week, he tripped up the stairs and a few of my friends responded--wow, that guy was a dick.

I agreed. Last night, he showed up and I was shocked. Had it been me, I would have avoided the place that I made myself look like an idiot for awhile or maybe forever. Nope, this guy has no scruples. He didn't apologize for his repulsive behavior. He just seemed a little reserved. For about ten minutes. Then, he started eating snack mix and licking his fingers. Sucking on them. It was deplorable. I have found, yet, another pet peeve, up there with toe nail clipping in public. Yuck! Where do these people come from?

Anyways, I am frustrated with the posting factor. My birthday, the day itself, was melancholy. I won't go into details, but, it began with sadness. I went hiking to clear my head and embrace the day. I talked to several friends and picked up Shari from the airport. At that point, I was feeling much better. Spending time with Shari is always peaceful and I always manage to work in a 6+ mile walk around a city at some point.

2011-10-09T00:35:00.000-07:00

Wanting to see if this actually will post--something...anything...seriously, I have several postings that have not been published due to who knows what.

Hopeful.

2011-10-02T17:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Sunday!

What a beautiful day. I spent the morning enjoying the sunshine factor and hoped to dine at one of my favorite eateries. When I walked into the place, I knew, that it had not yet opened. I saw one of the guys that I play volleyball with and he deemed it necessary to grief me. Fun times, indeed. Instead of relocating, I convinced my friend to check out another restaurant. Packed. It was insane how busy this place was. We ordered and waited for my name to be called. The food was fantastic

current thoughts

2011-09-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

Last night, I was making small talk with customers when this couple walked down the stairs. Immediately, I sensed this man's discomfort. He seemed agitated and since I was semi-trapped behind the bar, I couldn't approach them to find out what I could do to make it better. He looked at his wife and said--they don't have the game on.....
At this point, I interrupt this couple and ask what they would like to drink. The woman asks me if I can put the ASU game on and I agree, too, once I find the correct station. I grab the remote and the guy keeps saying--it's on Fox. I tell him that we had been watching the baseball game which was on fox. He is furious that I don't have the game on. I find it on espn but they are broadcasting the end of another game. There is one minute left. Football minute that is. I ask the couple what they would like to drink and the guy turns to his wife and says--they don't have the game on.
Insane. He would miss the first few moments of the football game. Few minutes. The other people that watched the interaction felt he was irrational too. It wasn't just me being mean. Then, I considered what is currently going on in my life. My dad would give anything to have another clear, loving moment, with his wife. He would love to take her home and lavish her with whatever she wanted. Instead, he is watching her try to let go of life.
I made some comment about being embaressed for the woman and how I would hate to be in a relationship like that. Pure misery.
For the most part, last night, was extremely pleasant. Steady flow of interesting conversation. And, I reached out to someone from my past that I hadn't spoken to in months. My way of offering the olive branch was sending a birthday card. I thought he would text or e-mail and let me know that he had received it. He didn't. Casually, I asked a few people that I know are close to him. They seemed surprised that he had not responded and indicated that he probably didn't get it. I couldn't remember if I sent it to the right address. In hindsight, I believed that I had gotten the numbers misplaced. I had rushed to send the card and in my hurry, could not remember if I wrote the correct address.
Yet, he did receive the card. He said he felt bad for not telling me thank you and mentioned that he would treat me to wine next time I was in the area. Thankful for that. We can move beyond our differences and continue, I think.
Perhaps, I am emotional due to the nature of my last week. It prompted me to think about my own life--dealing with losing Brian, the people that helped me while I was grieving and what this now will mean to my dad. Being upset about a game that started two minutes ago seems so minute in the whole scheme of things. It is laughable. To rush off, spike your blood pressure and for what---missing two minutes of a game? How to deal with the things you cannot control? Illness, death, etc?
Today, I will take a deep breath and breathe when challenged. I will smile and give gratitude for being right here, right now. I will pray for peace for my stepmom and send love to my dad and sisters that are still physically there for my dad offering support. I will not be negative about things that truly do not matter outside of a moment of time.
And, I will dream of a wine date with old friends. Happy Sunday~

Photo memory of 2010

2011-09-24T08:54:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh...two of my favorite people and things--Lindsay, Sara Jo and the food factor. A year ago we met to discuss our upcoming trip to Sonoma. We had signed up for a half marathon and wanted to secure accomodations while touring wine country. With a little bit of creativity and contact friendly people, we made it work. I wanted to toast our success and so we had lunch at Capital Grille. Champagne, wine, oysters and macaroni and cheese. I have always been a fan of oysters until I spent a week in the hospital. Talk about having a whole new meaning to that word. One of the patients near my stepmom's room was having respiratory issues. The sounds emitting from that room, well, unpleasant to say the least. My dad coined the term oysters....

Regardless, this is a photo that makes me smile and remember a wonderful day last September. I think we met on a Monday. Lindsay and Sara returned to their respective days off while I loitered downtown with my friend, Maghan. We had the loca hot martinis and toured a few other establishments downtown.

It all segwayed into the birthday month. This year I am going with the flow of where the road seems to lead me. I had not anticipated a trip to Missouri or a potential jaunt to sin city. Yes, I might make that happen. I want to do something nice for myself, too.

Shari is visiting me and I believe we will head to Sedona or Jerome. I want to enjoy some of this state's beauty. I will want to document photo memories to return to in the years to come.

Enjoy your Saturday. I am smiling~

2011-09-23T21:52:00.000-07:00

I flew home to see the family. I drove to KC and made peace with where I was at. Translation, I took over the sustenance factor. I considered what my contribution would be. I am good with the food factor, clean factor and griefing process. Yes, this is where I excel.
So, I arrive and follow Jasmin to the hospital. We arrive and mentally, I think, of how I can make things easier. I fall back on what I know. Still, we need to stock up on supplies and so my sisters make me go to wally world--yuck! We peruse food and beverages. Jade picks up the tab and I tell her that I will make sure that everything is flush. I don't want to put her out. We return to my dad's house and make dinner. Actually, prior to that, while parked in wally world, Jade leaves the rental car and sees a used diaper. Left in the parking lot. Yuck! Seriously...who does that? It was disgusting.
The next day while parked at a grocery store, I notice a woman in the car parked next to us. I wonder how Jade doesn't see it but whatever. I point it out and see a baby kitty in the back seat. I realize that the woman is homeless living in the car.
Weird. Thursday, we stop at Kohl's and all i can think is.....where is the used diaper, homeless person, or dirty couple? I mean, really, what else did we need to see while touring the midwest? That parking lot was clean, ironically. It ended well.
In hindsight, I wish we would have had another story to tell. At least it would have made my dad laugh. In addition, the entire well-preserved comment lingered the entire week. Too funny! I am glad to have been able to provide humor to the last week. We all needed it....

things happen

2011-09-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

It's been a whirlwind of a week. September always seems to fly by. I suppose since the focus, for me, is at the end of the month when I turn a year wiser.
Typically, I celebrate my birthday in a large fashion. Other holidays pale in comparison to how much I enjoy this particular celebration. I think it is because I do exactly what I want. I can be selfish and justify it with, well, it is my birthday....
This year is a little different since a few unexpected things occurred. First off, Veronica (my beloved Volvo) broke down. The customary tune-up turned into a huge cost. A point where some of my friends told me I should consider purchasing a newer vehicle and putting her down to rest. I have faith in my car and I know she has spirit. Plus, I figure I don't have a car payment and if I continue to pay attention to the maintenance, diligently, she will continue to thrive. I paid the balance of the work--new radiator, alternator belts, tune-up and a few other adjustments and felt a pinch. Still, I felt okay with having the work done.
Then, Sunday, my dad called me. This seems to be our thing. He calls me on Sundays to see how my week went, and how my upcoming week will look. I listened to the voice message and could tell something was up. I returned his call and he told me that his wife, Dori, was in the hospital and had been, since the previous Monday.
He asked me if I had talked to Jade and I said, no, sometimes it's hard to get ahold of Jade. He said, well, can you text her?
At this point, I knew it was serious. Jade is an oncology nurse and my dad has been a little more forthcoming with Dori's situation since Jade understands the terminology and what to expect. Dori has been fighting liver cancer for the last year.
I text my niece since she responds to texts. Jade isn't a big phone person. Mackenzie immediately responded that she would tell Jade to call grandpa.
Jade called me and told me that we needed to book a flight immediately to Kansas. That it couldn't wait nor should we. From this point, I was on the phone with my dad, Jade or Michaela, while a friend of mine shopped flights and rental cars for me.
I am here for my dad and Dori. There is nowhere else that I want to be. Of course, I feel like dead weight when it comes to sitting in the hospital. It definitely is not my forte. I am finding that I am equipped to provide emotional support and sustenance. They have let me cook while we are at my dad's house and I take pleasure in that. That is my contribution, small, while we wait to find out how to make Dori as comfortable as possible.
Yes, things happen. Things out of our control--my car seems so small compared to what is currently happening to my dad and stepmom. I remember how I felt after Brian died and I would not wish that on anyone.
Sometimes people ask--which do you think is better....immediate death or lingering dying? In the past I have always felt that the immediate death was harder--that is what my experience was with. Honestly, I would have given anything, any amount of money, my soul, what have you to have one more day with Brian. One moment. A kiss. Hug. Being able to look at him and say, I love you one more time. I felt robbed the way it happened.
However, watching my dad, now, well, in no way is this easy. You have time but there is so much pain. Plus, there are decisions to be made--hospice, all of the social security things, insurance, etc...the list goes on and overwhelms all the while, the person you most love is dying. It is heartbreaking.
This year continues to challenge, surprise and remind me to be compassionate and supportive of my friends and family. I am thankful to be able to do it, too. So grateful to be here for my dad.
It is a different way to celebrate. I will definitely find carrot cake at some point in the near future....

Entitled....

2011-09-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

Today started off in a wonderful way. I woke up and was cold, still. Slept with the windows open and enjoyed a leisurely morning. I made plans to do laundry, watch the finale of Entourage and visit my favorite Akita's, Dozer and Jax.
So far, so good. Enjoyed the finale and was able to thoroughly clean out coffee mug. I have been more green in terms of carrying my own carry out mug but not so great about cleaning it. I drove through a drive thru today and was embaressed by the condition of my green travel mug. It was stained with the remnants of coffee. Unpleasant smelling to say the least.
I stop by the local farmer's market to purchase greens, salsa, and a few other necessary items. I really love being able to shop at a local market. I pull into my alley to discover somebody parked in my parking space. It is a repeat offender, as last Friday, I noticed the same car in my spot. I had asked my neighbors who share the car port with me if they knew whose car it was, then, too. Today, I received the same response--no, we don't know the car. I tell them that I am going to tow it. I mean, this is ridiculous. There is a sign saying--tenant parking only and so obviously, this spot is not available to random people.
I put a note on the windshield and walk over to the church on the corner. I consider walking in to see if any of them had mistakenly parked in my spot when I notice they have a considerable parking lot and wouldn't need to park off site. As I am walking back to my house, I see a car pull up and hesitate. I cross the street and approach this kid. I said--is this your car?
Yes.
Well, you are parked in a spot that doesn't belong to you. He goes, I'm sorry.
He walked straight to his car and didn't look up. I continued with--if you do it again, I will have it towed.
He got in his car, backed up and took off.
I think I am most annoyed with his entitlement. Yes, I know that parking is scarce around here due, in large, to the fact that it is by a university. Choosing to drive around campus limits parking options. It was the same way at KU. So, I took the bus or walked to campus. Not once did I illegally take someone else's spot. And, he wasn't sorry. Only, that he got caught.
What he doesn't know is that I took his license plate down and will absolutely have his car towed if he parks in my spot again. You just don't do that. I chose this rental for that purpose--it came with a designated covered parking spot. I shouldn't have to fight to use it.
I arranged to go running later to let off some more steam. Yes, I am that annoyed....

Monday Memory

2011-09-12T22:19:00.000-07:00

This is me and Sara Jo. A year ago, tomorrow, we planned a venture to Coors Field. First, though, we stopped by our favorite tap house and ended up enjoying our time there way too much. I think we arrived at the ball game in the bottom of the 4th. Begrudgingly, I will admit. I would have preferred remaining where we were.

Still, I had taken seats from the company. We had to go since they were located next to some of my co-workers. Since I was elated at spending time with Sara, we snuck off an inning later. I was hungry and we were enjoying ourselves. I didn't feel like watching the ball game or heading to another bar with either of them. Not that it wouldn't have been great....it would have. They are both fun people. That night, though, I wanted to hang out with Sara.

I texted another foodie friend and discovered that he was at a new local eatery. This photo was taken there. Good times, great night, enjoyable wine/conversation.

I know that I have been blessed. I have fantastic people in my life and am surrounded by endless possibilities to improve my surroundings. Yes, life is truly grand.

Lately, it seems I am reflective and I want to share some of the insights. Probably just for me but, it is necesary. I am fortunate.

Enjoy your night as I am enjoying mine. Thankful for friends, for wine, and of course, photos~

Well preserved

2011-09-12T11:58:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I met an old friend for lunch. I noticed on facebook that we were in the same area and so I approached him about a reconnect type of wine lunch. Josh and I attended grade school together. I believe he transfered to my grade school in 4th grade. We attended the same junior high and graduated from high school. In college, he had a friend that lived in my building and we had a few dinners together. That, too, was a random reconnect. Pre-facebook, internet craze, social media. I really do not even remember how that happened outside of running into him in the building somewhere.
I have always enjoyed his company is what I am saying. When I noticed that we would have the opportunity to catch up, I took it. I texted him to let him know that I had arrived and found a seat at the bar. He responded that, he, too, had just arrived and would see me shortly. A few seconds later, he retexted--uh oh?
At which point, I said--what? And, I knew, what had happened. He went to the other location. He called me to say that he would be there within ten minutes and I perused the wine list. I chose a lovely merlot/cab franc blend. Earthy, funky, and perfect for me.
Josh arrived and we caught each other, respectively, up on what had been going on the last few years. He had lived in Nebraska, Texas and most recently, California. He told me about his sister, mom, other family. He asked about Roxy (my mom). Funny to hear someone refer to her that way. He said--well, I have always remembered her name. We discussed similart interests, hopes, dreams and of course, gossipped about others from our class. This is a natural occurrence I would like to think. I discovered that he enjoys hiking and look forward to checking out hikes in the area. Also, he loves food and so I will have another person to check out restaurants with. At least for the next six months. He will be relocating to Seattle then--I think.
Eventually, he says, I don't know how to say this without it sounding bad, but, you are really well-preserved. Do you know what I mean?
I point to my glass of wine and say, yes, I drink a ton of wine and water. I have a healthy lifestyle, I think, for the most part.
Well-preserved.
It is funny. Makes me think I belong in a petri dish or science project. The definition of the word is what makes it sound so clinical.
Today, I walked to continue my healthy lifestyle and I suppose, the continued state of well-preservation. Too funny.
Now, I can honestly say that I have been described as well preserved. That is a new one, for me.

some personal thoughts of today

2011-09-11T09:12:00.000-07:00

I remember waking up to the news. Disoriented, as I was in my childhood home, visiting my mom on a mini-departure tour since I was planning on embarking on a backpacking trip in Europe beginning 9/18. Holy run-on sentence. Sorry. My thoughts are a little garbled when I reflect back on what 9/11 represents to me.
Tragedy. Loss. Unbelievable sadness for all of the lives lost. How this could happen seemed so unlikely to me. It took awhile to absorb the fact that there is a lot of hatred in the world. I remember opportunists trying to cash in on the tragedy while others exerted themselves in the recovery. How we came together to grieve, to love, to help each other.
I remember being dazed and filled with uncertainty. Personally, I knew (somewhere in my head) that a backpacking trip was out of the question. Stubbornly, I held to that belief though. I continued my going away tour until I returned to Lawrence, KS, and had coffee with my mentor. He said--you should wait. You can delay your trip, reschedule and go at a more secure time. Even if you wait 6 months, it's only six months. Cotten succeeded where all of my family failed. My parents, aunts/uncles, sisters, friends, even, shook their heads in frustration to me as I held on to the notion that I would go to Europe. Yes, i can be a stubborn fool. I think this comes from my mom's side of the family.
At this point, I had no idea what to do. I didn't have any plans of returning to Phoenix. I had submited a leave of absence and wanted to take the opportunity to travel. I drove back to Kansas, dropped off my car, and then 9/11 disrupted the plans.
I thought of staying in Kansas and almost choked on that fact. Actually, Lawrence has always had a soft spot in my heart. Yet, I was no longer a college student. I knew way too many locals and felt if I stayed there, it was likely that I would fall into a bottle (or two) of vodka. I did give it some thought, though. I would be closer to my sisters and maybe able to watch my goddaughter grow up, in person. I think Mackenzie was three at the time.
No, staying in Kansas was not desireable or going to happen. I bid adieu, again, to my sisters and parents and traveled around the states for about a month. It was eerie to fly. Most flights were partially filled. I think I got checked every time I went through security. Not a fan of that, either.
I returned to Phoenix, visited a friend from college in Santa Barbara, took the Amtrak to the most awesome city in my world--San Francisco and considered my options. I watched the playoffs and became a fan of specific players on the Athletics, Cardinals and Diamondbacks. I think I found an Irish Pub in every area of the city. It was time of trying to find peace within the world and understanding. I watched baseball with a group of older men and felt safe in that realm. Safe enough to accept a ride back to my hostel from one of the regulars. And, I bumped into my old boss from Phoenix while drinking in the Mission. That, too, was comical especially when I saw him a few weeks later and he had no recollection of our meeting in San Fran. Oh, alcohol....
Still, i had no idea what direction my life was heading. It just felt that I needed to stay in the States. Since I have always had an affinity for beer, it seemed natural to check out the Great American Beer Festival. I had connections from Phoenix where I could get free passes to the convention and my aunt, Bryn, lived in Denver. I called her and arranged to stay at her house for a few nights.
My friend, Jan, flew out to Kansas to meet my family. One night in Lawrence with Michaela, Jeremy and their crazy little terriers before spending one day with my mom, Jade, & Jasmin. Thankfully, it wasn't too overwhelming and we made it safely to Denver.
That was it. I knew my next city. Denver embraced me with lifelong friends, wonderful restaurants to explore, beer/wine (naturally), hiking, a love for running and Brian.
So, to me, inspite of how terrible 9/11 is...the tragedy that occurred, the lives lost, the hatred, I met my soulmate. For me, my course completely altered. Instead of exploring Greece or finding a prince to marry--yes, some of my friends actually thought this--I relocated to Denver and started a new life. A life where I pushed my limitations regarding relationships and love. I am so thankful for the time I had with Brian.
Isn't there a saying out of tragedy comes possibility? I don't know. I am a little emotional right now for the loss of life, the love of love and all of the emotions tied to today on a universal level.
I plan on taking time, for myself, to breathe, reflect and later, meet a childhood friend for lunch. Looking back on life, helps me balance where I want to be heading.
Find a way to enjoy the people in your life. This anniversary illustrates how precious each day truly is.

currently

2011-09-07T17:04:00.000-07:00

Grilling went well. Too well, almost. Absolutely love grilled asparagus, pineapple and shrimp. My friends bought a lot of shrimp. Some of which was deveined and others, well, we had to devein it. Yuck! Thankfully, Jan liked to strip the vein out more than I did.
I think Tom went overconsumption since he invited one of his friends over for dinner. It worked out, better, too. We needed the additional shrimp. I prepped the skewers and blackened the rest of the shrimp. I figured, why not? Blackened shrimp is lovely.
I opened some wine after a margarita at one of my favorite restaurants. They put a limit on the chambord margaritas available on a visit to their restaurant. Three is the limit. Had we not had grill plans, I think I could have been convinced to eat the guacamole and dip trio. Yay, for queso!
Yet, we had Sunday night plans and so I limited my consumption of the chambord delight.
Prepped the shrimp, vegetables and listened to music. Perfect way to enjoy a meal. Another example of a ideal homecooked meal.
Since then, I have been thinking about running and future trips. No progress on either front. Running returned to the wayside and traveling, well, a little uncertain of the next venture. Although, I do have a few upcoming visitors that are interested in exploring the southwest. Maybe a trip to Cali is in the future.
On the running front, I have signed up for two more 1/2 Marathons in the fall. Stoked to be returning to Las Vegas for a 1/2 this time and that I convinced several others that they, too, should sign up for this event. Shari, my friend, Jenn from middle school and another college friend, also named Jen. Maybe this is the trip of Jen's and not Sara's as my 30th birthday displayed. Michaela and I with three Sara's en tow. Awesome adventure, that time, and I believe, this 1/2 Marathon trip will be just as fun. It is Vegas and who doesn't enjoy a mini trip there?
Also, today, I discovered that a friend of mine from grade school lived 20 minutes from me. I cannot wait to meet Josh for a glass of wine. While in college, he was friends with one of my neighbors. Several times, we would make dinner, cocktail and finish with a cordial. Those were the days of decandence and excess. Then, we sort of lost touch. However, with the help of a certain social network, we have reconnected. Josh has always been a good friend and I am grateful to have this opportunity to meet again. I am sure that the lunch will be full of entertaining catch up type of stories.
Today was more productive than yesterday. I retrieved my bike and actually rode it home. In a way, I felt like a kid, again, enjoying the last moments of summer before school started. What a feeling! I am envious of my niece and nephew who will, soon, begin school in Oregon.
Life is grand...enjoy your night!

I feel like chicken tonight....maybe, not chicken, but dinner, for sure....

2011-09-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

Tonight, in the spirit of the holiday (dreaming of camping), we are going to grill. Seems fitting, too. Not only due to the holiday aspect but also to the closing of the full circle of 2011 thus far. Looking around my friend's house, I see that some things have changed and others are regressing. The island that I proudly convinced them to clear off to make it easier to cook in their kitchen has stuff on it. Water bottles, dog food and other items that have taken residence of the beautiful counter.
The island also has collected a few items. Note pads, new gizmo's and other things. The dining room table remains clear of clutter. There are some dried flowers but that fits the decor. I am glad that we are still able to use the table and will continue to do so.
The first time we made a Sunday night meal was Easter. We grilled ham, pineapple, corn on the cob and I think asparagus. I believe it was the first time, this year, that my friends actually used their table. It offered hope and promise that we would have several meals there. And, they go all out. They have dried flowers (like previously noted), candles, place mats, an array of plates, dishware and napkins. Yes, they know how to host meals. Sure, it took an effort to clear the table, but, once done, it has remained useable for us to dine at. Beautiful.
Tonight, I think, we are either making shrimp skewers or fish. I lean towards fish. But, I know Jan prefers the idea of shrimp skewers. And, we can grill vegetables which is truly what I am interested in. Grilled tomatoes, peppers, asparagus...yummy!
I must shop and figure out what works best. Actually, I think I will wine shop. We can work out the rest of the details later. My focus is the wine factor. Must find wine that is drinkable and lovely for tonight. This could be my last Sunday night meal for awhile.
Looking forward to the outcome of tonight. Grilling sounds fantastic. I am ready for a margarita in the meantime....

dining in Sedona

2011-09-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, I celebrated

the 28th of August by exploring Sedona. Like I mentioned in the previous post, I encountered a tarantula, went wine tasting in Cornville, lounged by the pool and had a lovely meal at a resort. We sat, creekside. Stunning spot to enjoy a spectacular meal. Initially, we drank a cocktail while I perused the wine list. We discussed our options--foodwise and I chose a wine. I settled on an Aglianico. Lately, I have been appreciating Italian wines with food. It complimented the meal nicely.

Plus, the wine list was overwhelming. So many choices and it covered most of the world regions. Of course, being that we were in a resort, it fared to the more spendy side. Not that I don't appreciate a fine bottle of wine, I just don't want to pay $200 for a bottle.

So, after I knew what wine I wanted, we moved on to the entree choices. I like trying as many items as possible. Immediately, the heirloom tomato and melon salad stood out. I knew that it would be delightful. I like scallops and since I knew that Jonny was uninterested in fish as an entree, I thought this would be the best way to get my fish fix. The scallops were okay. Honestly, I have had better. I was a little disappointed.

After the scallops, the next course was duck with cherries and confit. I considered the venison. I think it had huckleberries. However, in the spirit of the day and what it signified to me, I knew the confit was the way to go. Brian would have definitely approved.

Delicious, too. The server suggested trying the succotash with the duck. The duck was dropped at the table, but no succotash. I mentioned to the server when she came by to inquire our thoughts on the duck. Her response--oh, I forgot to order it. One second, I will be back.

When she returns, though, she tells us that the succotash is no longer available. She suggests the asparagus or fingerling potatoes. I had already had some asparagus with the duck and so I said, we would try the potatoes.

In hindsight, we should have skipped the starch. Completely flavorless and lackluster. Onward to dessert, a cheese course. I love cheese for dessert. Plus, they didn't offer any carrot cake or enticing chocolate volcano, so, dessert was my choice.

This is my sixth celebration of August 28th. I didn't have any expectation of how it would go outside of that I would find spectacular food and wine. I did and we toasted Brian. The following day, I walked the labyrinth which I had no idea was at the bed and breakfast until we checked in. Perfect way to complete the celebration. A moment to step back, breathe, celebrate and remember. Yes, this year was a successful celebration, too.

First ever sighting

2011-09-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

This is what greeted me when I stepped out of the hotel in Sedona. My first, ever, up close and personal tarantula sighting.

I think I jumped. Gasped. Tried to run out of the way. Wearing heels, of course, and thankfully managed to not trip and fall in my attempt to get as far away as possible. However, that would have made for a great story/blog recount. Instead, I watched it and recoiled as it crept towards us. I moved a few steps, farther, and then thought to find my camera.

This is the best I could do. I would not move closer to capture a more pure photo of this creature that invokes fear in me. Unadalterated fear. Irrational. For instance, I imagine this creature trying to jump on my leg even though, somewhere in the back of my mind, I know that this will not occur. Still, I cannot get any closer.

If I could return to that moment, I would have moved closer to see what would happen. Embrace my fear and see what could happen. No. I am not saying that I hope this recurs any time soon. Only, that I should have taken a deep breath, relaxed, and moved closer.

I suppose it is forcing me to reassess my lack of creativity lately. Spider crossings inspire creativity, for me. What inspires you to be creative?

fond memory

2011-09-03T08:32:00.000-07:00

Inspired by this. Love the red sunsets in the southwest.
I think this was captured before enjoying a meal at an eatery in Santa Fe. Our original plan was to dine at Mu Du Noodles. My friend, Melody, loves this place. We drove over to find that they had opted to close that particular Sunday. Bummer.
Still, love the sunset and memory of that night in January.

Unmotivated

2011-09-01T16:35:00.000-07:00

Pretty much sums it up. I should go running tonight; but, I have no interest in that activity. Consider for a moment what it would feel like. I think, last night, at 7:30, it was still 105 degrees. Sounds like perfection, right? Feels like a blowdryer with a touch of wind and of course, the sting of humidity. Ideal for a 6 mile loop...well, sometimes, it is or that is what I convince myself. Today, I am unmotivated. No amount of internal dialogue is going to change that fact. I have corresponded with my running partner, too. I haven't seen him in a few weeks due to other priorities dictating me skipping runs or purely, unmotivated, like tonight. I feel that I will be back on track soon.
I thought about running on the treadmill. I could watch Rescue Me and run--two activities that I enjoy combining when forced to run indoors. I stretched and then got sidetracked by a book. I finished the book and then told myself that I should run with the Thursday night group. I wasn't feeling the treadmill action today. Still, watched Rescue Me, though. I am bummed that that show is ending in a week. Sad episode, last night, for those of you that also watch this fantastic show.
Yesterday, I had plans to run, with said partner, but I had to pick Veronica up from the shop. My beloved Volvo had been dropped off a week ago for a routine tune up. Little did I know that I would be sacrificing most of my birthday budget to make sure that my car would continue to be part of my life. I know how this sounds. It is how I look at it, though. I have had Veronica for six years, almost. Brian picked her out and part of my love for this car is due to that fact. Plus, volvo's are fantastic cars and I try to keep the maintenance up, religiously. Sometimes, when I receive news like I did last Friday, I question my desire to keep the car. Basically, the mechanic told me that my alternator belt broke, my radiator was leaking, possibly a head gasket, oh, and the 180,000 service (tune up) needed to be done. I could understand the belts and possibly the radiator, but him, telling me that I needed a tune up really made me question if they did, in fact, know what was going on with my car. I made the original appointment to have the work done and was very aware of the tune up issue.
Since I was in route to Tucson to explore that gem of a town, I was distracted and told the guy to do everything but the head gasket. I let it go and thought--it's just money and you love this car. Plus, you are going to get it fixed in spite of the ridiculous amount of money.
I spoke to a few people about the quandry and they were all like--don't fix the radiator. Definitely the head gasket is b.s. Call them and tell them to only do the belts and tune up. And, why don't you buy a new car? This one guy said--how old are you? I bet you have decent credit and you could buy a new car--Honda or Toyota--and not have to deal with this.
That is a valid question. This is how I think about it. I love my car. I do not have car payments. My insurance is reasonable and why would I do anything to tie me, responsibility wise, where I am unable to travel? Purchasing a new car is foolish for my type of life. I don't want to be tied down to anything.
Also while walking around the Botannic Gardens in Denver with my friend, Sara, we had a similar conversation. She is hoping to purchase a vehicle and uncertain if she wants an older vehicle that she can pay for on the spot or a new vehicle with payments. Her mom (lovely woman) said--look at Harmony. She knows what she is doing. She doesn't have debt to tie her to a place or situation. But a car that you can afford when you buy it.
Clearly, I love this woman and statement. Very true to my way of life. I like having the opportunity to travel, taste life and explore.
I picked Veronica up yesterday. Paying for the service, sucked, and like I mentioned before limited my birthday plans. Now, I must decide what I can do that is fun and somewhat practical. I mean, I am going to want to do something next month, too. Then, there is the Phoenix 1/2 Marathon and trip to Rocky Point followed by the Las Vegas Half. Must not forget christmas. I always try to spend it elsewhere. Last year, I went to Key West. Delightful color, memories and friends. I met this couple on a wind and wine sail. I ended up having dinner with them. Awesome.
Sorry for the tangent. My running plans, last night, got altered when I decided to day drink to celebrate that my car was back and safe. One beer led to one more and eventually, my day was over. Fun way to spend a Thursday, though.
I remain unmotivated tonight. No running, but I can make dinner or something. There is always tomorrow for the running.....

Happy Birthday!!!

2011-08-31T07:22:00.000-07:00

Cheers to you, Michaela!

It is my sister's birthday and I intend to celebrate her birthday, in spirit and in style. If only we were closer~

Mini Tour of AZ

2011-08-30T10:06:00.000-07:00

Seeing that I had a few days off and a friend in town, we chose to tour the state. Initially, my plan was to head north to Sedona. It is inviting and a beautiful place. In the past, I have spent some time there and hiked. My last opportunity to explore Sedona got nixed when I had car problems in route to Phoenix. Instead of exploring the vortex, we spent the night in Flagstaff and I hoped for a solution to the billowing black smoke from my car.

Anyways, I was unable to arrange more than one day in Sedona. I booked a room for Sunday and dreamed of a way to do everything that I wanted to do. For instance, have a nice meal, hike, wine taste and shop for gems. Of the four things, two were accomplished. No shopping or hiking. Lame, I know, but the wine tasting was nice. Meal incredible and I can always return to hike and shop.

Let me get back to the tour of the state, we had a few days where we could explore the southeastern wineries. I ask my friend if he is interested in heading to Bisbee and wine tasting. We could stop into Tucson, too. I have always wanted to spend more time in that city. It is smaller, more community feeling and charming. Hanging out in Tucson sounded lovely.

Last Thursday, we grabbed a coffee and headed south. First stop, Tombstone. Delightful little tourist driven town. Full of cowboys and lawmen. All I could think was how much my mom would love this town. Too funny. And, it reminded me of the family vacations where we would dress up for the saloon photo. If I had a photo scanned, I would actually display it.

We stopped in a few of the saloons and contemplated staying for the gun show. Well, maybe, thought about it...knew it wouldn't happen. I wanted to get to Bisbee.

Delightful town. Checked out the Copper Queen, Cafe Roka, Stock Exchange, and a few other bars.

I know that I need to blog more about this tour, but, other priorities take over. Until later.

the 24th and what it signifies to me

2011-08-24T07:39:00.000-07:00

My nephew is ten today. I feel ancient~

I remember when Jade brought home this little boy. Even though, I was living in Denver at the time, I could sense the shift that he would bring to the family. The first boy.

What a change. I think my dad was over the moon, almost, as much as Jade. I mean, this was the first boy in our family and he was immediately adored for that fact. Sweet and immediately loving Easton was.

My mom was beside herself since Easton was different than Mackenzie. Mackenzie loved spending time with au ma and my mom adored watching her. She visualized cowgirl outfits and of course, the boots.

With Easton, he only wanted to be around Jade. She tried to leave him with my mom, or one of my sisters and he would cry and cry and cry. Easton was definitely a momma's boy. Still, he was sweet.

As he got older, I saw him more often. I even convinced Jade that I should be able to watch him one morning. At that point, they were living in Oregon and he was in the spiderman phase. He walked around the house with his little spiderman action figure. Proudly holding on to it at all times. I hid it because I could. He was little at the time and he goes--"You lose it....where is spiderman?"

I told him that I had hid it and that he should find it. Such a sweet little boy.

Now, he is an athlete, an older brother to Emery and into the computer. No more action figures for this kid. He is showing Emery what it is to be a boy. I miss that camaraderie that can only occur with siblings. Grateful for the time I spent in Oregon with my own sisters and how our quirkiness quickly identifies our relation.

I watched him play baseball this past April and was proud. He has natural ability and no, I am not just biased. He is going to be great if he so chooses.

Oh, to be young, again, with all the possibility in the world. Happy Birthday, Easton! Enjoy today fully.

I will be finding carrot cake, later, to toast the celebration in spirit! Happy Wednesday to everyone else...

Sunday night meal

2011-08-21T11:16:00.000-07:00

Back to my love of vegetables. Under careful consideration, I decided to attempt another stuffed pepper recipe. I like bell peppers and they make for a substansial meal if only using vegetables. Since Jan is still trying the vegetarian lifestyle, I plan on making bell peppers stuffed with rice, black beans and corn. Small twist on using meat and the last time I made peppers, we all thoroughly enjoyed the cous cous/feta combination. However, it is good to change things up and try out new recipes.
The recipe I found suggested making eight peppers which seems ludicrous to me. I know that I would be the only one dining on the leftovers. If there is too much stuffing, I will figure out a way to utilize the stuffing. Perhaps, I could buy homemade tortillas and craft my own take on a burrito. Or figure out a way to incorporate an egg into the leftover mix.
Anyways, I like the outline of the recipe and hope to increase the heat of it. I like spicy food and see me adding either another jalapeno pepper or including red chili flakes. Maybe decrease the amount of cheese as well. Why mask the spicy with overuse of cheese?
I am looking forward to trying it out. It has been awhile since my last creative masterpiece. The last few dinners have been salad driven. Ideal for the summer but sort of boring too. Well, boring in the fact that Jan does not like berries on salads. My creativity is somewhat limited to make sure that her needs are met. I have snuck in some fruits on occasion to jazz up the salad. Still, I am looking forward to tonight. Hopefully, the peppers will be more flavorful tomorrow. I see that in my future, too.

With a little salsa...

2011-08-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

It's a fact (in my world), salsa makes everything taste better.
When I was a kid, I smothered everything with ketchup. Not everything, but fries, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers. I think steak, too. My dad loved grilling steak and my sisters and I despised it unless it was super well done. I think ketchup helped the charring of the steak that seemed necessary to us. Thank god, I have outgrown that. Well done steak smothered with ketchup or A1 or any other steak sauce is unpleasant.
Never eggs, though. That always sort of freaked me out. I never understood how people could add ketchup to scrambled eggs.
I grew out of the ketchup stage and into the salsa phase. Possibly since I adore mexican food and know that I could sustain on chips and salsa alone, daily. I've tried it. After I returned from the around the world trip, I needed salsa since I had trouble finding it in Fiji, Australia, and the other countries that I visited. I desperately missed mexican food. I spent a few days in Phoenix and made my friends drive me from mexican restaurant to restaurant to feed my insane need for salsa, guacamole and mexican food in general. Afterwards, I stopped in Santa Fe continuining my salsa craze and eventually back to Denver where I stopped after seeing an accupuncturist. That is another story. I digress.
Today, I consider my food options. There is leftover pasta, stirfry and eggs. Typically, on weekends, my roommates and I have toast and eggs after a 3-4 mile run. This morning, Tom had to attend a wake and so we skipped the run and customary breakfast. I suppose I had egg and salsa on the brain. I chose to create a fried egg, avocado, red pepper, cucumber, and cabbage toasted sandwich. Surprisingly the combination worked. Adding salsa made it memorable. I used siracha, herdez and another hot sauce to create the ideal salsa for this sandwich. Delicious!
In other news, I ran on the treadmill this morning since the last few days, I have been a complete slacker. Tomorrow, the routine will return--early morning run followed by coffee, toast and eggs. Grateful for that and already thinking about the Sunday night meal....hmmm.....what to make?

Half Marathon

2011-08-18T07:51:00.000-07:00

Social Race. That is all I am saying outside of--no, we did not PR. And, Lindsay and I were both okay with it.

Since we met over two years ago, we have run five 1/2 marathons together. While running this race, I kept bringing up the next race. I am determined to run another race with her this year. I think the Phoenix 1/2 will be our next race or perhaps, Las Vegas. Yep, I am signed up for that one already.

We had a lovely evening prior to the race. I slept well and felt refreshed when I woke up. Her friends, Trina and Eric, met us at a prearranged spot with coffee and a bagel. They followed us to Idaho Springs and we found a parking spot. From here, Eric drove us to Georgetown to drop us off at the start. Excellent. In the past, we have taken the shuttle to the start line. Not a bad way to get there, but, requires less sleep to make it happen. Plus, there is standing around in the cold while waiting for the shuttle. This drop off was awesome. We arrived, checked in, used the "clean" porta potty and started the race. Yes, it was leisurely.

At the start, we discussed our approach to the event. Lindsay and I had already determined that it would be a social race. She said--my training has lacked and I feel that I will be walking some.

Trina also felt fine with walking. About a mile in, I discarded my throwaway jacket. Too hot already. I felt great and I was learning about Trina's friendship with Lindsay. We continued and at mile six, I opted to wait in line for a porta potty. It seemed like it wouldn't be too long of a wait since there were four porta potties and a few people in line. I handed Lindsay my camera and water bottle and told them I would catch them in a few.

Well, a few minutes extended into ten minutes of waiting. Irritated, sure. And, noticing that the line was not moving. Finally, this guy emerges from the potty and I am able to return to the race. I had considered squatting behind a car. Really.

I start running and know that Lindsay and Trina are quite aways from me in the race. I curse myself for not bringing my ipod. I figure from mile six on, I will be running solo. I keep going and thankfully, find them. Lindsay hands me my water bottle and camera. I feel everything is right in my world, again.

Continuing on, our pace slows. Trina's knee is acting up and Lindsay always runs for herself. I respect this about her. She knows what is good for her. And, I was fine with it. I wanted to feel healthy the next few days.

Finally, we approach the finish line. I crossed the line with Lindsay. Perfect way to end a social race. We walk around the expo and run into some of my other friends. I take an opportunity to take a photo with two of my favorite canadians--Brett and Pete--and attempt to convince them to sign up for the Las Vegas 1/2. We shall see. They ran that race last year while I attempted the full. Initially, I believed I would sign up for a full this year. Now, I know, I prefer the 1/2 Marathon this year. Know that four are signed up for and maybe, signing up for a fifth. It is between running the Denver Half or dining with my mentor from college. Leaning that way since it has been way too long between visits.

Anyways, very happy that I ran this race for the third consecutive year. Feel that I will sign up, again, next year. Beautiful course and well maintained event. Plus, know that Lindsay likes the event, too.

After saying goodbye to Trina and Eric, we met Lindsay's mom and sister for lunch. We wanted to enjoy a celebratory cocktail and refuel. Bloody mary's always seem appropriate. Great mix of rehydration from the tomato juice and the bonus is pickled asparagus that some restaurants garnish the cocktail with.

Lazy day ensued. The shower made me feel like a million bucks. I wasn't extremely spent, physically, but I could have used a nap. Instead, we headed out to the Beauty Bar hoping to have a manicure/cocktail combination only to find out that they did not open until 7 pm. Bummed and questioned why this establishment opened later. I mean, it's summer and if their concept is to provide beauty and drinks--wouldn't opening during the day during the summer make sense?

The day concluded with Lindsay and I making dinner for her boyfriend, his brother and parents. Pleasant day all around. I enjoyed spending time with her family and grilling he delicious vegetables from their garden. They were fantastic. We grilled eggplant and squash and I threw together a tomato based dip for the crostini. I think you can never go wrong with tomatoes, basil, garlic and a splash of olive oil.

Looking back, sure, we could have exerted more effort in the race. I know this. However, it was such a delightful experience--all of it--race, lunch, grilled veggie deliciousness. Very thankful for the Half Marathon to prompt a visit.

Friday in the city

2011-08-17T14:10:00.000-07:00

Friday morning, Lindsay dropped me off, downtown so that I could tour the metro area. Work demanded her attention while I could run fancy free throughout the area. My first stop was Starbuck's. There are several along the 16th St Mall and since I had been power hydrating I knew that I would need safe public available restrooms. And, I had an i-pad to use while solo for the day.
I found a Starbuck's, ordered an americano and asked for the door code to the restroom. Afterwards, I loitered. I considered my options. I had a lunch date and could either stay where I was in the metro area, go directly to the bank or walk up to Capital Hill. I read some of my book and enjoyed my coffee. Before I headed out to Capital Hill, I decided to use the bathroom again. Like I mentioned, I had been drinking a ton of water. I needed to mass hydrate for the half marathon on Saturday. I walked towards the bathroom and saw that it was occupied. I waited. And waited. And waited. I heard water gushing and thought--what is this person doing? Taking a shower?
I stood outside of the bathroom in an enclosed area for about ten minutes. Finally, I return to the coffee shop and figure, I can wait a few more minutes. This guy rushes past me. Definitely intent on getting outside. I walk back to the bathroom and am overwhelmed by the stench. I think--omg, it is coming from the bathroom.
I open the door (like a fool) and know that I am not going to be able to get that smell out of my awareness. I slam the door and run outside for fresh air.
I was appalled. It was disgusting and then, I think, there are no public bathrooms in the vicinity. This guy was trying to clean himself up and rid himself of the smell. He just waited too many days to do it.
I walked up to Watercourse to enjoy some breakfast. For whatever reason, I knew this would be my only opportunity to dine there. Breakfast burrito good and again, could use a clean bathroom.
Afterwards, I checked out a Whole Foods and used the i-pad. My day was progressing nicely. I was thankful to be outside and not dying from heat stroke. And, still inhaling ample amounts of water. I decided to return downtown, check out the library and head to the bank before my lunch date. Super productive and walking friendly.
Lunch was at Cholon. Fantastic service, fun drinks and I did enjoy the fare. I loved the dumplings, wontons and finally got my brussel sprout need attended to. At my ultimate favorite restaurant in Denver, they have a side called brussel sprout hash. I crave it. On Thursday, I was hoping to order that delightful gem of a meal and unfortunately, they took it off the menu, last week. Bummer!
Regardless, I did enjoy Cholon. I wasn't impressed with the beet salad however. Uninspired, for sure.
Andy and I enjoyed a few drinks while conversing. He is a great friend who enjoys travel and food (almost) as much as I do. I was happy that we would be able to meet up for lunch. I thought his work schedule might dictate otherwise.
And, all good things must come to an end. He drove me to Argonaut so that I could (try) to impress Lindsay's parents with my good manners. That evening, we would be spending the night with them as it was closer to our meet up spot in the morning. I knew that I could use more sleep.
I walked up to the light rail station, boarded the light rail and headed to Littleton. Nice clean ride. Plus, I could read more of my book.
Lindsay picked me up and we were off to Morrison. Her parents are gracious and entertaining. Her mom began playing the banjo seven or eight years ago. She played us a song that was inspired by her recent trip to West Virgina while we sipped on vodka tonics. Her dad arrived, grilled us steak and we had a lovely meal. Her parents are extremely approachable. Easy to talk to and interesting. It was nice to have a homecooked meal, too.
All of Friday, even, all of the walking around Denver, provided a nice foundation for the upcoming 1/2. I felt relaxed and hydrated. I dreamt of crossing the finish line and of a healthy race. And, sustained no guilt of the mix of cocktails and wine. We drank the bottle I brought and everyone enjoyed it. I have been on a petite petite kick lately. I knew that Argonaut had the bottle of wine that I liked, Michael David's Petite petite. Beautiful label with elephants on it. Shari and I found this gem at a restaurant in Santa Fe a few years ago. I suppose I enjoy the nostalgia factor, too.
Perfect way to prep for a race and wander around. Of course I would have preferred spending time with Lindsay and another time plan on doing that. Seeing Andy broke up my solitude and I found a new restaurant to return to while in Denver. Spectacular, really~

The beginning of the return adventure

2011-08-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

First stop, dining with friends. Thankfully, there is no shortage of awesome restaurants and friends in Denver. I arrived and opted to take public transport into city. My original ride canceled at the last minute. My flight arrived, mid-day, and I knew that it would be inconvenient for most of my friends. Work sort of demands that. Anyways, I jumped on a bus and had a true blonde moment. I thought I knew where I was going and noted, quickly, that I did not. I ended up way south. Thankfully, I recognized one of the buses that departed from the southern location. I jumped off the bus at and headed into Capital Hill. I love being in that area. After a quick slice of pizza, I walked up to Speer to meet my friend, JT. After a few texts, we decided to meet for wine instead of am coffee. I wanted to see him and you know how much I adore coffee and need it on a daily basis, but sometimes, wine is the way to go.

He met me for wine and we caught up. Lindsay met us after her work day concluded and we ordered a cheese plate. I absolutely loved the conversation and didn't want this part of the night to leave. However, JT had other priorities/plans. I bid him adieu and Lindsay and I drove east to one of my other favorite restaurants. Entering the building, we noted how busy they were. I looked around for my friend, Maghan. Of course, he, too, was on vacation and so I would miss him this visit.

Lindsay and I drank some wine and thoroughly caught up on what was going on in our lives. I updated her on my lack of training and how the Half Marathon would truly be a slacker/social event. She concurred. Recently, she switched jobs. Plus, Lindsay plays on softball teams, golfs and has a whole other slew of activities that she completes on a weekly basis. Seriously, the girl is nonstop. But, her running has slowed down due to her new work schedule.

I was all for the social approach to the half marathon.

We drank wine and snacked on mac and cheese and instead of the customary calamari, we tried the chiles with pumpkin seeds. Delightful. A nice addition to the menu. I love the calamari so much that I refuse to sample it at other eateries since no others compare to how fantastic this restaurant's calamari is. Saying that, sometimes, I like to try new things. The chiles were lovely.

All, in all, the first day was truly successful. My little screw up with public transportation actually was fine. I read my book and people watched. For example, this woman entered the bus and sat right next to the bus driver. The woman was mentally challenged. I watched her interaction with the driver. Obviously, they knew each other from the conversation that followed. The woman offered to stop by Taco Bell for the driver.

The driver replied,"No, thank you."

The woman said, "Oh, well, I brought you these, too." She handed the driver a bag of chips.

It was touching and sweet. Definitely made the bus ride worth to see compassion of others.

Not to mention, I was able to see more of Denver this way. Beautiful day to walk about and enjoy the sunshine. Plus, I sampled fare from three of my favorite places and had wonderful conversations with friends. Yes, return visit started well....

sunday night meal

2011-08-07T13:02:00.000-07:00

Tonight, I think I will be doctoring up a store bought pasta sauce. Better than what I grew up on---the store bought version that is. A while back, I was lazy (shocking) and opted to prepare this meal for friends. They found that they enjoyed it (immensely, or so I tell myself) and in order to illustrate that, I noticed several pasta sauces in their pantry. I think it was their way of letting me know that this could definitely be a meal plan revisited. And, I know, that they borrowed my idea on a separate occasion. I like inspring homecooked meals even if it is only doctoring up a sauce. I have noticed other friends watch my technique, too. Last time in Oregon, Tim (Michaela's boyfriend) made guacamole for Jan and I. His words--I watched you make it last time and thought I would try it out. Delightful. Really. He altered a few things but I still loved it. Keep in mind, I could live on avocados. Jade also noted my adoration of the avocado. When she hosted a bbq at her place, she said--and, you will be making guacamole, right? I picked up the cilantro, onion, tomato, etc., is there anything I am forgetting? It was so cute and I believe, my niece and nephews like it too.
Anyways, I stopped by a farmer's market and purchased a huge carrot to add to the celery and onion, or mirepoix. I think I will overwhelm the sauce with garlic as that is my way. I love garlic. There can never be enough in a meal--I believe. My friends are finding this out, too. Thankfully, they seem to enjoy my cooking or perhaps they are skilled liars. Doubtful since they allow me to continue to experiment in their kitchen.
At the farmer's market, I found excellent day old bread on sale. Decided that it needed to accompany me home. I figure I can throw together the sauce and make crostini, too. Maybe a green salad. I don't know. I don't feel that ambitious today. I could definitely take a siesta or extended nap. I said, could, because, shortly, I will be heading out to meet a few friends for wine happy hour. There is this lovely wine bar that offers wine by the glass, daily, from 11-5, for $5. I love this. I think it is a wonderful offering. This trumps siesta, too. I can drink wine, contemplate any other additions I will make to the meal. Yes, sunday funday is on.
Enjoy your Sunday. Celebrate and Enjoy~

upcoming half

2011-08-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

Run went well since I opted for the shorter loop. In hindsight, it was a poor decision. I was well hydrated and ready to run the six mile loop at night. I had prepared as best as I possibly could. There was a group of fifteen us. We started out across the bridge and one of the leaders said--are you running six or three?
I don't know.
Well, you should decide now since that is the turn to the 3 mile loop.
A few people split off and I followed. We ran towards and sunset and it was glorious in all honesty. Lovely pace and beautiful scenery. I would have done well at the longer loop--I know it. I wanted to do it, too.
Still, I returned home quicker and I wasn't as drained from the humidity/heat mix of running the six. Yesterday, I forced myself to run on the treadmill as well as today. I figure if I run, daily, the half will not kill me. This morning, a group was set to meet at 5:30 to run an indertminate amount of miles. Last week, I met them, begrudgingly. My friends and I dined out, late, and thinking about getting up before 5 am to meet a group at 5:30 preoccupied my evening. The meal was fine but I know that my contribution to the conversation was lame. I thought we were going out to eat at 6:30. We met at 8:15ish. So you can see why I might be a little stressed out about my lack of sleep. I did wake up and meet the group. Grateful to get the training run out of the way last week.
The 1/2 next weekend should be entertaining and fun. I have no other expectation of it outside of running with friends and enjoying the race. Plus, I should get another cool t-shirt. This is my third consecutive year of running this particular half and I like it. I think it will definitely be on my list for 2012, too.
Tomorrow, I will become a slave of the treadmill most likely. Perhaps Monday I will make an effort to run outside. It is all out of my hands now. The half is exactly one week away. Now, I must focus my energies on muscle memory and the fun that I will have running the race with the Goddess. Thankfully, her training has been lackluster, too. I guess we can dissect our efforts while running. That might be fun~

other thoughts of today

2011-08-04T17:45:00.000-07:00

Gearing up for another run in the evening. Seriously, I have to psyche myself up for these. I remember, years ago, when I wasn't even a true runner when I could run at 5 pm, daily, and the heat would not affect me. What happened to that girl?
Age. Or, so I was kindly informed when I repeated my story of running mates to a friend. His comment of my lack of attracting pot smoking hippies was this--you aren't 20 anymore.
Man, if only, I could pull that off. Those were the days of fun and freedom. Well, not really. I am just contemplating the last few guys that have seemed interested in me. Common tie--no drinking and they run. Yet, I know a this couple who are hardcore about the events they compete in. This woman is a complete badass and she and her boyfriend do not shy away from celebrating their events. I think she has won a few tri-athlons or cycling events. She is awesome. Her boyfriend is just as able of pulling out the stops, effortlessly. She mentioned something about not putting expectations on yourself and to just enjoy the whatever race you were involved with. Great perspective and like I said, they drink. They enjoy frosty pints of beer and they both are older than me. I doubt they have to talk themselves into training. Although, I do know they skipped a training ride recently due to being tired and not feeling it. And, like me, they do arrange rides when it is cooler than trying to go in the middle of the day.
Maybe I am getting older but I am not going to allow it to limit my fun or activities. Saying that, I am so registering for the Half Marathon in Phoenix in November that benefits breast cancer. A few words on that. I have walked the race for the cure in Denver twice. I have two shirts to show for it. Whenever I wear those shirts, I always get stopped and asked what I thought of the event or thanked for doing it. Personal stories follow and it brings a calm to my heart. My stepmom was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005. I began supporting the Komen Race to support Dori and give back to an organization that helps many in need. So, yes to the Half in Phoenix and then there is Las Vegas. I played with the idea of running a full 2011, half-heartedly. Somehow, my body knew that I needed a break and would benefit from focusing on 1/2's. That is the plan. I will run the Vegas Half in December with a few friends. My friend, Jenn, from middle school-college is in and a few other ladies are contemplating the event. All I gotta say is...it's Vegas. Why wouldn't you sign up for it? I think Shari and her sisters are interested too. That would be the ultimate race to run & support a group of sisters that decided to run a half marathon 2011. They have completed two or three 5k's as a group and I am very proud of their dedication and commitment. I hope they opt to sign up for Las Vegas, too.
Well, I must hydrate more and prepare (mentally) for this upcoming evening run.

gratitude and attraction

2011-08-04T09:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday. I follow a few blogs that do a thankful thursday weekly listing. It made me stop and consider what I am grateful for today.
Also, I received a truly lovely e-mail from my sister last night. It made me cry. She knows what to say and what buttons to push from years of friendship and fighting (childhood, predominantly, in that realm....as adults, she is one of my best friends and biggest supporters). She wrote me to remind me of how I live my life and how few people would choose this path. However, she pointed out things that I should be thankful for if I had forgotten them. Let's just say that 2011 has been interesting and exactly what I wanted.
Ironically, I had been e-mailing her at the same time. We had a brief conversation, last night, on my way home. I had went running with a guy I met in a group. He contacted me a few weeks ago to see if I would be interested in running or hiking. I would and we had corresponded, infrequently, the last few weeks. I looked at it as an opportunity to be accountable and run in the heat. I didn't know his motivations and really hoped that they were out of an interest for running. I am still uncertain on that front, but I think there is some interest. I told Michaela of my assessment of the situation and him. These things from our conversation stood out while running. He is recently divorced, considered his marriage a mistake and is rediscovering himself.
While he told me about himself, he reminded me of another man that I used to run with. I pointed that out to him and how this guy didn't drink after he got divorced. What I didn't mention was that we sort of dated. That, in spite of him not drinking, we still explored the dating factor. Not that I think sobriety is bad. I just enjoy wine too much with food to not drink. And, in the back of my mind, I knew this was a mistake, for me. I felt he would be judging me and essentially, he did. There was more to it than just that, too. I don't want to evaluate that brief stint of dating, though, either. It really is a non-issue.
Regardless, last night, when the current running mate mentioned that he wasn't drinking....I thought--wow, what vibes am I putting out there? What happened to all of the pot smoking hippies that I used to find?
Sorta funny and definitely made me smile. So, I am grateful for new opportunities, my sister's insight for making me smile and considering what vibes I am putting out there. I feel fantastic when I am healthy and am super grateful for running. It has created ample opportunites of travel and memories. One of my favorite trips was to Sonoma last year with three of my girlfriends. Or, the Vegas Marathon with my own personal amazing spectator. Not to mention the massages at the Bellagio. The reward for all of the hard work associated with marathon training. I must be doing something right.
If only, I could meet a running mate that did enjoy an occasional beer or bottle of wine. I am just saying. Happy Thursday~hope this made you smile, Jade, or at least, chuckle...

leftovers

2011-08-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

Triumph of the roasted eggplant and tomato dish. The mint adds a lovely brightness that makes the dish memorable. My friends enjoyed the meal while watching The Lincoln Lawyer. I am a fan of Michael Connelly and had read the book on a flight to I don't remember where. The movie was okay. Several notable actors but the movie did not do the book justice in my opinion. And, I think I was a little preoccupied with my upcoming week. Must schedule running into the mix of priorities. I contacted a friend and set up a running date, that ironically, is occurring this evening. We have been trying to either hike or arrange an early morning running date. I miss the Goddess and our weekly runs. Tonight should be a nice change to my normal routine. The last few days, I chose the treadmill over outdoors. The heat factor limited my desire to run outside.
Anyways, the eggplant dish rocked on Sunday night. There were leftovers and I knew, from experience, that I would be the only one partaking in those. My friends do not eat leftovers or that I have seen. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to try the leftover eggplant pasta. Keep in mind, at this point, it became a cold dish. I didn't have the opportunity to reheat the pasta. Decent, but lacked its luster or brightness. I had brought grape tomatoes with me which added to the flavor or the leftover pasta. I think next time, I will alter the dish to make the leftovers more flavorful. The initial experience with the pasta was lovely. I increased the amount of garlic and tomatoes. I love garlic. I will probably add more garlic next time. I think my friend commented that they were referring to him as italian at his office since the aroma of garlic lingers. He overlooks that for homecooked meals. If only he would eat some of the leftovers. All would be right in the world. I recycle, reduce, reuse, etc. I eat leftovers in an attempt to minimize waste. How do you contribute to reducing waste? I think we could all improve that aspect of our lives. Just something to think about. And, I will continue to dine on the leftovers while, hopefully, improving the dishes in the process.
Happy Wednesday~

return of the eggplant

2011-07-31T17:43:00.000-07:00

Sunday inspires dinner. Homemade, that is. Last week, was super lame. I wasn't feeling it. I had spent a week in Oregon, driving, taking care of my favorite running partner, Pete, and making sure that other peoples' needs were attended too. I was exhausted and over being attentive to other people. I got a massage to try to relax but the masseuse and I had conflicting ideas over what relaxation should be. Gifted, sure, at trigger release therapy, but that was not, at all, what I had in mind when I arranged an 80 minute massage. No, I wanted to be beat up, thoroughly, and hopefully, release some of my stress.
Since the massage lacked, the dinner was a loss. I threw together a nice salad and crostini and mostly went the motions of what a Sunday night dinner should be. Looking back, I know that I was completely transparent in my mood.
Regardless, this week, I am inspired by the eggplant. Perhaps watching several hours of the food network motivated my need to really prepare a meal tonight. I think a sangiovese would be a wonderful accompaniement to the meal. Still on the fence with that one. I think a bottle will be opened and soon. I believe cooking (my cooking) goes much smoother when I am able to drink a glass (or two) of wine.
Tonight, I am roasting eggplant, tomatoes, and garlic. Meanwhile, I will boil penne pasta and wait for the aromas to entice my friends. So far, I have managed to keep them out of the kitchen and my laptop relatively safe on the island. A few months ago, I tried to make dinner with the laptop and a bottle of club soda blew up and spattered all over my beloved laptop. Thankfully, it is functioning and works. Yet, since then, the letter "z" is challenging to type. It sticks or just doesn't want to comply.
Accompanying the meal is a green salad with raspberries. Sometimes it is good to change things up. I like berries on salads especially in the summer.
I believe this will go over well. If not, oh well. Kitchen closed til next Sunday. I have made this dish before and it went over well. This time, I added more garlic and tomatoes to offset the eggplant. It sort of overwhelms the dish. The color of the overall dish is unpretty to look at. Delightful fare to sample though. I look forward to seeing how the small changes will affect the outcome.
Stay cool and enjoy your Sunday~

wine tasting

2011-07-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

I love wine tasting. My first trip, ever, to Napa was inspiring. Clearly, I fell in love with the grapes, people and all of the available wine. Really it is all about the wine. So, when the idea of tasting wine in Oregon came up, of course, I had to make it happen. My friend, Jan, is a beer drinker. Specifically Stella Artois. She only deviates from this beer if there is no alternative. When this occurs she is visibly annoyed. Her idea of ideal world would be available Stella at every bar, restaurant, market. She is a true fan of that product.

So, I was a little surprised when she appeared interested in wine tasting. We began the day at Sweet Cheeks. I found a few pinot noirs that were lovely and considered purchasing one of them. Honestly, I am not a huge pinot fan. I prefer bold reds and knew in the spirit of compromise, pinot noir would be on the menu. Jan likes pinots.

We asked the guy from Sweet Cheeks for suggestions. He mentioned that Pfeiffer was eclectic and fun. Sounded perfect and I wanted to try somewhere that I had not been to before. A few years ago I went wine tasting with Jade. Awesome story and would add on too much to the current one. Anyways, we drove up to the next winery, entered the building and found the clerk busy with three other people. The pricing seemed a little exorbirant. $12 for four reds, one port, and a commemorative glass. $20 for all of their current offerings--red and whites, plus riedel glass. I opted for the red and Jan tried all of them. The guy was preoccupied with the three people and started me on my tasting. He returned to the threesome while Jan waited to begin her tasting. I found it odd since he watched us walk in together and instead of starting her lengthy tasting, he focused on me. Finally, he started her tasting. He alternated between me, them and Jan. The wine was fine but I didn't like the amount of wine we were given. Extremely minute in comparison to Sweet Cheeks and eventually, King Estate.

Of the three wineries, King Estate was the best, by far. The grounds were beautiful. I could have sat there all day taking in the scenery and drinking wine. Stunning.

The wine tasting was lovely, too. Six wines and I found a few that Jan would like, too. I wanted to bring a bottle or two to Mossyrock to enjoy with Jean. Jean is familiar with King Estate and I knew she would enjoy wine from there. I settled on an easy pinot noir for Jan and a syrah for Jean and I. I felt that we would both enjoy the bigger red--we did.

Glad that wine tasting was a priority of the trip. Possibly my favorite day or the Oregon adventure. I would love to return to check out other wineries and explore the region more fully for food, too. Also, the trip was fantastic except that I would have preferred more one on one time with my sisters. I miss them mucho! Perhaps another trip 2011?

volleyball

2011-07-26T22:50:00.000-07:00

Tonight, I could either return home to dine with friends, play volleyball or find a pool to enjoy with friends that were in town. Truly, the pool idea enticed me the most. Unfortunately my friend, Jonny, from out of town was under the weather. Hungover, mostly, but unable to get off the couch where he was staying. We talked a few times and although, I would have enjoyed hanging out with him the most, I knew that he was probably out for the evening. I sensed it while having lunch. Most times, he is ADD and somewhat entertaining because of the wild tangents he uses in conversations. Today, he was somber and more interested in his phone than a conversation. He couldn't wait til I left so that he could crash out on his friend's couch.
I spent some time perusing magazines and scanning books that I would like to read. Recently, I read the Hunger Games. Lovely book. I cannot wait to read the next book of the trilogy. Anyways, I was still hopeful (somewhat) that Jonny would be able to go to dinner and get off the couch. I texted to suggest some places and he did not respond. I waited a little longer and than decided to inform him that I wanted to play volleyball but would be able to meet after volleyball. Immediately, he responded telling me to go to volleyball and that I should text him later.
Perfect. At least I now had a plan. I left the bookstore hoping to grab a sandwich or something before volleyball. Hunger dictated this. Driving along, I grab my nalgene bottle only to find that I didn't have it. Searching under the passenger seat, my purse and back seat yielded no result. I turned around and headed back to the bookstore. I know this sounds silly for a nalgene bottle but it has nostalgic value and I had to at least try to find it. I sprinted into the store and retraced my steps--bathroom, teen section to skim over the next installment of the Hunger Games, and fiction before approaching customer service. It went like this--I know this sounds random, but did someone turn in a blue nalgene bottle?
No--did you check the check out area? Perhaps they have it.
I walk up to the purchase area and ask the same question with the same result. However, at this point, I remember that I should check the chair that I sat in while reading magazines. Yep. There was my bottle. Grabbed it and headed to find a sandwich and go to volleyball.
I approach the volleyball park and see nine players. Small group this evening. Grateful to have the opportunity to play another Tuesday, but, for whatever reason, I was distracted. Ben, this guy that is typically a solid player, opted to leave after the first match. The other two players that are fun and joke around with me were absent as well. The chemistry of the people was off and I definitely had little to contribute. My serve was inconsistent and I had few opportunities to spike. Setting and digging out serves flowed. When we broke between matches, I took off. I wasn't feeling it. I suppose I had already decided to do something different this evening. Although a nice surprise, I played flat. There will be other chances to play and I must remember that. Tonight will be forgotten.

family

2011-07-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

Fun filled trip to Oregon. I convinced my friend, Jan, to accompany me. She could use a break from the heat inspite of the fact that she is a native of Phoenix and very accustomed to dealing with the intensity of the sun. Oregon would be a welcome change.
For me, I wanted to check out Oregon in the summer. My previous trips were earlier this year and cold. Definite pants weather which I refused to wear. Summer would be a nice change from my previous travel experience. However, it rained more than I would have liked to see. I should have brought pants.
This is my brother-in-law, Jeremy. Nice mohawk, right? We enjoyed a lovely mexican restaurant near his house. I love the salsa and the margaritas are nice, too. We started the day out near the train station and did some people watching while enjoying some local pints of beer. If ever, in Eugene, Ninkasi Brewery makes a delightful beer. I tried the india pale ale as well as the stout. Had we had more time, Friday, we definitely would have returned to the taproom to drink more beer.
I digress. After Ninkasi, we checked out the Davis and small talked an acquaintance of Jeremy's. The menu, although enticing, did not convince me to stay there. I had mexican fare on the mind.

Jade met us for lunch at the Boulevard. I convinced her that we needed an "adult only meal" and then we didn't partake in beverages. Nice, right? However, the night before was memorable in that department. I found out that Jade is now drinking vodka.

Boulevard was fine. Great service but the food was mediocre. I confused the menus that I had been checking out on-line. There was a place I wanted to check out. My luck, it wasn't open. No way around that. And, I wanted to find a place that Jade had not checked out. In the past, Jade and I have checked out Cafe Zenon, Marche, Steelhead, and Chapala (a mexican fave of hers). Next time, it might be preferable to return to what we know. Maybe, I will even go to Chapala. Personally, I prefer the salsa at the El Jarro Azul. Jeremy likes that place and I have checked it out on a few occasions.

Jan and my niece got along famously. Dogsitting was the focus (somewhat) but we also made time to see my family people that I consider family. Thankful to experience two dinners at Jade's house. The first one Tab grilled bbq chicken and peppers, zucchini and tomatoes. Well, I grilled those. I insisted to Jade (annoyingly, perhaps), but I wanted to make sure that my friend was comfortable and I adore veggies. Moreoever, I thought, maybe, the kids would enjoy the grilled vegetables. Hands down the zucchini won that battle. I think my adventurous niece tried the tomatoes as well. I think the peppers were my favorite. Small steps.

The other dinner was composed of grilled salmon, potatoes and green beans. This time, though, only Emery hung out with the adults. The other kids had other plans which I completely understand. I remember being a teenager, in the summer, and determined to hang out with my friends or babysit. Yes, I was that kid. Always trying to babysit to make money. College would not pay for itself.

Spending time with family was extremely pleasant. My only regret is that I didn't take nearly enough photos of the trip. Somehow, Easton eluded me the entire vacay. Next time, I will make sure to capture some photos of him.
Nevertheless, very thankful for the opportunity to go to Oregon, see friends, family and check out new restaurants. Pete was a wonderful companion too. We spoiled him. Two walks, each day, and we spent some time in Mossyrock, Washington, at a friend's cabin. Jean lives near a lake and has a golden retriever. For the first time, I think, Pete spent two solid days with another dog and was able to get along quite well.

Off for a run or a cocktail. Undecided. All that is certain is that I will comment more on my trip later. Cheers!

seeing old friends

2011-07-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

Love this photo and wish that I had managed to capture a few more with my friend, Jean. She is a gem. So thankful that she agreed to meet me while I was in the Pacific Northwest. She lives in Seattle and I doubted that I would be able to drive up there, comfortably, with Pete. Pete is Michaela's dog and I agreed to dog sit for her while she vacationed in Hawaii. How could I say no to Michaela since Pete has been a great running partner, for me, this past year? And, Oregon, is supposedly to die for in the summer. Earlier this year, I visited and was horrified by the lack of sun and moist weather. My sisters kept telling me--you should come out in July...it is soooooooooooo beautiful.

Agree. However, several of the days were overcast, rainy and required a jacket or two. Not completely sold on the idea of Oregon. Seriously, every drive day was sunny and gorgeous. We would reach our destination to wake up to rain, rain and more rain.

I knew that I would go to Oregon and I convinced my friend, Jan, to go with me. Jan needed to meet Jean--I thought and so I called Jean and arranged to stay at her cabin in Mossyrock, WA.

I have a lot to catch up on and document. I wanted to share this first since I am extremely thankful for Jean and our friendship. I met her when I was 19. We each, foolishly, had chosen to learn spanish at 8:30, five days a week. I remember, several times, dragging myself out of bed to run to that particular class. One day she suggested meeting for a beer and that was that. We have been friends since. Lots of wine inspired weekends, hikes and mispronounciation of spanish. We spent two months in Guadalajara, Mexico, continuining our education. I think at the end of two months, I finally was dreaming in spanish and understanding the language. I flew back to Kansas and that grasp of the language departed. Thankfully, our friendship continued. Once every few years we manage to meet up and reconnect. Another successful trip completed. More on this later.

upcoming trip and thoughts

2011-07-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

Packing. Sorting. Deciding what to take and what to leave. Dogsitting in Oregon. I cannot wait! Spending time with my sisters and having another opportunity to spend with my niece and nephews. Brilliant.

The weather should be perfect. Earlier this year, I visited and foolishly did not bring appropriate attire. No. I am stubborn and felt that my typical lifestyle of wearing shorts yearround could sustain in Oregon. Not so much. Thankfully, I had one pair of running pants that enabled me some comfort. Grateful that I had training to worry about and brought the pants along to ensure me running.

I lamented the weather, though, frequently. I missed the sun and weather of Denver. My sisters kept telling me--come back in the summer and check out how pleasant the weather is then. Seriously, the summer is beautiful and worth the crap weather now. You will see...

That is true. Tomorrow, I will see. I plan on bringing a jacket to contend with the weather at night. I think Jade said the weather drops to 50ish at night. Fond memories of jacket type weather.

I had to bring two pairs of running shoes to decrease the miles on my current pair of kicks. My other pair is my old pair of Saucony's that are functioning as my everyday shoes. I am a light traveler and so I do not plan on checking a bag or bringing unnecessary items. My friend, Jan, is completely different. She is checking a bag and bringing a lot of stuff. I believe it eases her level of discomfort and so I am all for it. I want her to be comfortable while visiting Oregon. To each his own or so the saying goes. Me, I do not like to have to cart things around. I like to be able to check in, go thru security, and relax at the gate. I can carry my bag and my purse and not experience difficulty. Tasks easily accomplished. I want to say that this is how I have always traveled. It seems manageable, efficient and convenient.

I do plan on running while in Oregon, seeing my family and venturing off to my friend, Jean's, cabin. This will be a perfect getaway. I will find a way to distract myself with wine and beer, too. There is so much to explore and really, not enough time. I wish I had more time to see Jade and the kids. Perhaps I will return in the fall.

Must conclude this so that I can try to sleep. Early flight. Night~

recap of today

2011-07-13T00:40:00.001-07:00

Earlier I wrote about how much I heart dancing. Well, today's latin fusion class sucked. With ten minutes remaining, I left. I couldn't help it. The instructor's sense of rhythm was off the entire class. The class was full and I was surrounded by people who had no inherent sense of beat. I couldn't take it any longer.
I sat in the sauna. Tried to. The first five minutes were blissful--just me. Then, four women descended on me. Three of them seemed to understand space issues. The last one to arrive sat right in front of me. Who does that? There was plenty of room to sit elsewhere. I felt confined and ultimately, annoyed. I waited, hoping this woman would either relocate or leave to no avail. Finally, I called it quits, showered, and returned home. Considered the irony of the day. Typically, I love dance and the prospect of the sauna completely held my attention when it came to whether or not I would go to the gym or not. I forgot to mention that my bike tire was flat. Instead of cycling (like I had planned on), I drove.
I made an avocado, tomato, toasted cheese sandwich. Delightful.
Brief siesta and then the prospect of volleyball. Complete day and so looking forward to this particular activity. Last week's match got canceled due to the dust storm. Tonight, I just wanted to have a nice game.
I arrive. Notice that the overhead lights are out and that there are seven players. Seriously. Another setback to my day. First the flat tire, than the lousy class and now this. Still, I walk over and we contemplate the situation. Does anyone know of a nearby place we can play? After a few minutes of discussion, we head out. The first court was nearby but the sand factor lacked. Too much like concrete. Not to mention the drum circle that was going on. Then, someone thought of another place. I had no idea where the second court was. I followed the car pool. We arrive and the court is available, lit and short. I loved it. I felt like a giant. I could adequately block and spike. I knew it. Plus, tonight, for the first time, the teams felt balanced. We played six matches where in two of them, I was able to block a spike on highly competent players. I felt awesome.
Afterwards, I joined them for a celebratory beer. It was the perfect conclusion to a challenging day. Started out challenging and concluded in a positive fashion. I served consistent ace serves, spiked, blocked and fielded the ball well. Finally. Loved volleyball.