Two days off translates to cleaning, eye appointments, massage therapy, seeing friends and Mexican food. Most excited about that. Last week, the Goddess and I met for Pho (delicious). This Thursday we are finding guacamole, green chile and chips. Super excited! It's a cold day, semi-dreary, and comfort food sounds incredible.
I managed to go to a yoga class before the debauchery starts. Typically, I like this instructor for her awesome adjustments only. She has an assistant that also adjusts during the hour class. I love that the studio is heated and it feels like a community. If only the yoga, itself, was good. I have struggled in the past month to find classes that are challenging. The heat factor helps decrease my frustration and knowing that I like the teacher's adjustments motivated me to head downtown to attend the class. It starts with us sitting and listening to her talk for 9 minutes. I knew, then, that I would be leaving the class early. She took to long for the intro and I knew that the physical part would be lacking. It was. I was frustrated. Her music was terrible and she wasn't able to adjust people like normal. There was no assistant and everything about the class was crappy. Finally, I had enough and did a mini corpse pose before heading out. Ironically, the instructor happened to be right by me while I was attempting to leave unnoticed. She stopped by me to see if I was okay. I told her that I was fine just not feeling it today. I couldn't force myself to do stay any longer in the class.
Now I am considering joining a gym that offers spin. I think I will start running again and sign up for a fall half marathon. I am plateauing with yoga here. I have exhausted my free pass options around the city and need to choose which studio has the best options. I have not found any studio with a good playlist. I know that is not important to some people but it is important to me. I like a heated studio and most importantly, I do like power yoga that is challenging. I want my mind bent.
I am off to lunch with the ladies. I convinced Sara Jo to join us too. I am excited to see them and chat my birthday venture to New Orleans. It is right around the corner. Must make plans!
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Saturday, April 16, 2016
friday dinner
More snow....wtf? Although it was predicted, I remained hopeful. Especially after being incorrect as to when it would begin. Thursday passed. Friday started and there was a lingering of weather and start of rain. I had dinner with Andy at a popular Highlands spot before the rain became more consistent.
The dinner was good. Italian fare. Decent wine list. Cocktails and beer offered. We sampled the octopus, meatballs and squid ink pasta. I asked our server to space out the offerings so we could have a progressive meal and perhaps order more. She made some flippant comment about not being new to the serving thing before walking away. I ordered a bottle of wine midway through our appetizers--octopus and meatballs. I would have preferred having the octopus, first, followed by the meatballs than the pasta. Bread would have been a nice addition to the meatballs, too. It was not an offering and we managed to make due with the meal.
The nebbiolo was delicious and reasonably priced. The vibe of the place was lively and became increasingly loud as our meal progressed. There was a group of women that were remarkably intense. I wanted to tell them to shut up that not everyone was interested in their conversations. They were super loud and annoying. Think real housewives of somewhere. Yes, they had had work done and were flashing jewelry. Eventually, I was able to tune them out and enjoy the remainder of the meal.
The squid ink pasta arrived and Andy and I both remarked on the portion size. It was huge and more than enough for two people. A family of four could have enjoyed this meal. And, keep in mind, I considered trying something else. Maybe some greens to balance out the Italian fare. However, after tackling the squid ink pasta, I was no longer hungry. We asked for the bill and I was surprised that the girl had opted to order the larger portion of pasta as we had expressed our interest in trying multiple things. I guess she wasn't as schooled in the ways of dining as she liked to think. Moreover, she was all over us when I first arrived. Didn't read our conversation or that we were not ready to order after we had been seated for three minutes. After we ordered and tasted the wine, the server was gone. I poured and refilled our glasses. It was not that fantastic of an experience to be completely honest. We tipped too much in reality. I am tired to rewarding people for crappy service. And I don't know when it started to decline. I take pride in what I do and am frustrated by people that are not providing the same service and/or experience. Not following through with wine service for example is sad. How hard is it to pay attention to your tables and keep on top of what is going on with them?
We opted to head downtown and stop by one of my favorite spots. I knew parking would be challenging but was unprepared for the reality of it. And, I was uninformed on the current practice of meters. I remember meters ending at 10:00 pm and then being free until the street sweeping occurred. I began walking away from my spot, after 10, and couldn't understand why there were still meter maids out? I asked my friends at the bar and heard the updated procedure. Such a racket! Parking is charged at all times. Why? Seems silly and inconvenient especially when it takes a bit to find a spot. I was irritated and it soured the end of my night. I should have chosen to find a spot outside of downtown with nonino. That is what I was looking for in all honesty. Perhaps tonight. Snow continues to fall and it looks heavy and wet. Work might be quick...
The dinner was good. Italian fare. Decent wine list. Cocktails and beer offered. We sampled the octopus, meatballs and squid ink pasta. I asked our server to space out the offerings so we could have a progressive meal and perhaps order more. She made some flippant comment about not being new to the serving thing before walking away. I ordered a bottle of wine midway through our appetizers--octopus and meatballs. I would have preferred having the octopus, first, followed by the meatballs than the pasta. Bread would have been a nice addition to the meatballs, too. It was not an offering and we managed to make due with the meal.
The nebbiolo was delicious and reasonably priced. The vibe of the place was lively and became increasingly loud as our meal progressed. There was a group of women that were remarkably intense. I wanted to tell them to shut up that not everyone was interested in their conversations. They were super loud and annoying. Think real housewives of somewhere. Yes, they had had work done and were flashing jewelry. Eventually, I was able to tune them out and enjoy the remainder of the meal.
The squid ink pasta arrived and Andy and I both remarked on the portion size. It was huge and more than enough for two people. A family of four could have enjoyed this meal. And, keep in mind, I considered trying something else. Maybe some greens to balance out the Italian fare. However, after tackling the squid ink pasta, I was no longer hungry. We asked for the bill and I was surprised that the girl had opted to order the larger portion of pasta as we had expressed our interest in trying multiple things. I guess she wasn't as schooled in the ways of dining as she liked to think. Moreover, she was all over us when I first arrived. Didn't read our conversation or that we were not ready to order after we had been seated for three minutes. After we ordered and tasted the wine, the server was gone. I poured and refilled our glasses. It was not that fantastic of an experience to be completely honest. We tipped too much in reality. I am tired to rewarding people for crappy service. And I don't know when it started to decline. I take pride in what I do and am frustrated by people that are not providing the same service and/or experience. Not following through with wine service for example is sad. How hard is it to pay attention to your tables and keep on top of what is going on with them?
We opted to head downtown and stop by one of my favorite spots. I knew parking would be challenging but was unprepared for the reality of it. And, I was uninformed on the current practice of meters. I remember meters ending at 10:00 pm and then being free until the street sweeping occurred. I began walking away from my spot, after 10, and couldn't understand why there were still meter maids out? I asked my friends at the bar and heard the updated procedure. Such a racket! Parking is charged at all times. Why? Seems silly and inconvenient especially when it takes a bit to find a spot. I was irritated and it soured the end of my night. I should have chosen to find a spot outside of downtown with nonino. That is what I was looking for in all honesty. Perhaps tonight. Snow continues to fall and it looks heavy and wet. Work might be quick...
Friday, April 15, 2016
dinners continue
Sunday enchiladas were a success. Surprising my host, I know. I think he was completely prepared to order pizza as he had threatened that it was on speed dial. I do not doubt that. In the past, I did rely, heavily, on preparing salads if and when I chose to make dinner. Part of my comfort zone and also something that I like to eat. This year, I want to expand my culinary skills and so I have been attempting dinners on Sunday. Enchiladas first and last weekend, Bibimbop. A delightful Korean dish that I experienced while in route to Vietnam. It was the only meal that I enjoyed flying. They fed us multiple times on the flight. There was a fish option, pasta and then, this. Such an improvement over the other options. It sort of stayed with me since I have returned. I am looking forward to finding a banh mi, too. I have thought about venturing on South Federal to locate some pho or a banh mi. Just haven't made time for it as of yet.
So, I offered to make dinner last Sunday and again sensed Maghan's apprehension. How could he politely suggest that I order pizza or not even bother with cooking? Thankfully, he did not go this route and kept his thoughts to himself. He let me explore this newfound sense of what I would like to do.
I considered a few different recipes before committing to my cookbook recipe. I have a vegetarian inspired cookbook that has always come through for me. In hindsight, I should have used beef as it is more traditional and gives it a flavor profile that is not recreated with only vegetables and spices. Still, it was tasty and another success.
This weekend, I am at a loss. Initially, I thought I would have more time to contemplate the meal as my friend would be gone for the weekend. Then a storm system altered his plans. I will be vigilant and find something to showcase my developing skills. No salad or easy appetizer with wine to distract him or myself.
I could do another ethnic dish. Maybe a noodle bowl. I have been craving pho since I returned to Vietnam. Or stirfry. It's been awhile since I have eaten that. I love ginger, garlic, vegetables. Delicious! I think that may be the way to go.
In other news, I have been dealing with the tagging of my car. It's been a process. I purchased the car in Santa Fe and received the title via mail a week ago. When I brought all of my paperwork to the DMV they refused to grant me the tag since the guy I bought the car from had signed his name differently than what was on the title. I must now wait for him to sign a form stating that he is one and the same person.
I was forced to purchase a temporary tag and then they tack on a percent if you use a credit card to pay sales tax. It's beyond annoying. All of this because some chick was text messaging and ran a red light and plowed into my car. Talk about inconvenient!
I am off to run a few errands and prep for the oncoming snow. Work, maybe yoga (although last Friday I was uninspired by the instructor's flow so I think I will skip tonight) and then dinner with Florida Andy. Looking forward to that and checking out a new eatery in Denver. It's going to be a great day!
So, I offered to make dinner last Sunday and again sensed Maghan's apprehension. How could he politely suggest that I order pizza or not even bother with cooking? Thankfully, he did not go this route and kept his thoughts to himself. He let me explore this newfound sense of what I would like to do.
I considered a few different recipes before committing to my cookbook recipe. I have a vegetarian inspired cookbook that has always come through for me. In hindsight, I should have used beef as it is more traditional and gives it a flavor profile that is not recreated with only vegetables and spices. Still, it was tasty and another success.
This weekend, I am at a loss. Initially, I thought I would have more time to contemplate the meal as my friend would be gone for the weekend. Then a storm system altered his plans. I will be vigilant and find something to showcase my developing skills. No salad or easy appetizer with wine to distract him or myself.
I could do another ethnic dish. Maybe a noodle bowl. I have been craving pho since I returned to Vietnam. Or stirfry. It's been awhile since I have eaten that. I love ginger, garlic, vegetables. Delicious! I think that may be the way to go.
In other news, I have been dealing with the tagging of my car. It's been a process. I purchased the car in Santa Fe and received the title via mail a week ago. When I brought all of my paperwork to the DMV they refused to grant me the tag since the guy I bought the car from had signed his name differently than what was on the title. I must now wait for him to sign a form stating that he is one and the same person.
I was forced to purchase a temporary tag and then they tack on a percent if you use a credit card to pay sales tax. It's beyond annoying. All of this because some chick was text messaging and ran a red light and plowed into my car. Talk about inconvenient!
I am off to run a few errands and prep for the oncoming snow. Work, maybe yoga (although last Friday I was uninspired by the instructor's flow so I think I will skip tonight) and then dinner with Florida Andy. Looking forward to that and checking out a new eatery in Denver. It's going to be a great day!
Sunday, April 3, 2016
Sunday delights
Day off translates to yoga, boozy lunch and homemade dinner. My friend that I am living with takes very good care of me. Always insisting that I eat. He always asks if I have eaten and if I have not, he shares what he is eating or makes me something.
I am spoiled. I know. Last night, he made tenderloin, roasted potatoes, asparagus and mushrooms. I had a few bites of steak and focused mainly on the sides. I had thrown together a salad before picking him up. As we enjoyed our meal, I decided I should make him dinner for a change. And not my default dinner of salad. I have done that a few times. Imagine his dismay when he is presented greens as dinner when he goes all out in that department. It's not that I can't cook or feel uncomfortable in a kitchen. Neither of these things are true. I choose to dine out or make simple fare. It has always been my way. I think since I have worked in restaurants the majority of my life I rarely have a full refrigerator. I tend to go to the market often to pick up items that I will need to make for a meal. I don't plan meals on a weekly basis.
So, tonight I will make cheese enchiladas, margaritas and guacamole. Instead of buying a store bought enchilada sauce, I am making my own. Of course, my friend is hesitant about this. He inferred that he would dine at work to avoid my kitchen efforts. I told him I would buy pizza or middle eastern if the enchiladas were a disaster.
I took a break from yoga and found some difficulty in returning. I haven't felt the need to go yet I missed it desperately. Unmotivated, I wallowed in my inability to choose a studio. Finally, I decided to check out another introductory offer at a studio. The manager was welcoming, informative and overall, I like the vibe of the place. It's a heated studio with power vinyasa and they have music to accompany the classes. Or so I thought. Today's class did not have music and the instructor had the DJ voice. He was annoying and I need to make sure that I skip his classes in the future.
I met Jenn for lunch and a catch up session. We have been unable to connect for about six weeks due to schedules and travel. She is a busy gal with an ever changing work schedule. Thankfully, we were able to meet for a quick bite and some mimosas. I dropped her off at her house and went grocery shopping for my dinner. I figure I can wait a bit longer before starting the enchilada sauce. I should probably take my contacts out to avoid touching my eyes later with any chiles.
If the enchiladas don't work, I suppose pizza is the solution.
I am spoiled. I know. Last night, he made tenderloin, roasted potatoes, asparagus and mushrooms. I had a few bites of steak and focused mainly on the sides. I had thrown together a salad before picking him up. As we enjoyed our meal, I decided I should make him dinner for a change. And not my default dinner of salad. I have done that a few times. Imagine his dismay when he is presented greens as dinner when he goes all out in that department. It's not that I can't cook or feel uncomfortable in a kitchen. Neither of these things are true. I choose to dine out or make simple fare. It has always been my way. I think since I have worked in restaurants the majority of my life I rarely have a full refrigerator. I tend to go to the market often to pick up items that I will need to make for a meal. I don't plan meals on a weekly basis.
So, tonight I will make cheese enchiladas, margaritas and guacamole. Instead of buying a store bought enchilada sauce, I am making my own. Of course, my friend is hesitant about this. He inferred that he would dine at work to avoid my kitchen efforts. I told him I would buy pizza or middle eastern if the enchiladas were a disaster.
I took a break from yoga and found some difficulty in returning. I haven't felt the need to go yet I missed it desperately. Unmotivated, I wallowed in my inability to choose a studio. Finally, I decided to check out another introductory offer at a studio. The manager was welcoming, informative and overall, I like the vibe of the place. It's a heated studio with power vinyasa and they have music to accompany the classes. Or so I thought. Today's class did not have music and the instructor had the DJ voice. He was annoying and I need to make sure that I skip his classes in the future.
I met Jenn for lunch and a catch up session. We have been unable to connect for about six weeks due to schedules and travel. She is a busy gal with an ever changing work schedule. Thankfully, we were able to meet for a quick bite and some mimosas. I dropped her off at her house and went grocery shopping for my dinner. I figure I can wait a bit longer before starting the enchilada sauce. I should probably take my contacts out to avoid touching my eyes later with any chiles.
If the enchiladas don't work, I suppose pizza is the solution.
Sunday, March 13, 2016
Massage, massage and more massage
Massage in Bangkok. Best way to start the trip. Our first thought was to return to the Urban retreat and receive a coconut scrub, hair treatment and oil massage. We were determined to have a more decadent massage before heading to Vietnam.
The business opened at ten. I had tried to arrange a massage on their website but had difficulty. Then there was the language barrier. We thought we would arrive at ten when they opened, receive our treatment and head to the airport. Little did we know that you could go in earlier to make an appointment. We entered the parlor to see six women finishing up their orders for massage. Crap! We would have to rethink our quest.
We returned to this other shopping center that we had drank coffee at. Shari thought she saw a sign for massage on one of the upper levels of the mall. Hurriedly, we returned to said location and made our way to their counter. After checking out available options, we settled on a facial/massage combination. The service was lovely and worth every penny of the cost. I was relaxed, refreshed, rejuvenated. Ready to continue with the adventure.
They served us hot tea and short bread cookies after the massage. Lovely and delicious! I loved the additional touch of orchard. Classy and gorgeous.
Post massage in Hanoi. Again another higher end establishment with tea to finish. Our clothing was silk pants and a halter top. I did enjoy the massage and it kicked off a great start to Vietnam massage. We looked so relaxed. And we needed it. Walking around Hanoi was full of anxiety until we figured it out. As a traveler, it is always nice to feel like you can fit in wherever you are or at least I feel that way. It was obvious due to height and hair color that I did not fit in to Vietnam. I could not disguise the fact that I was western. And I was confused as to where we were for the majority of the day. Midway through the day we stopped to sit on a terrace and watch life below us. Nonstop scooters, people selling their wares--fruit, flowers, goods, pedestrians. It was chaotic and magical. We missed a massage due to our travel day to Halong Bay and overnight cruise. Gorgeous in another way.
The final night in Hanoi was one the worst massages I have received in my life. Shari left the massage in disgust. I have no photos to display the establishment. I can still see the neon lights advertising the massage parlor. It would not have been that bad had the ladies not talked the entire time or forced us into a situation where we felt exposed and a captive audience. It was nonstop chatter and laughter. Not at all what I think about when I consider massage experiences.
Here is Shari showing us how they do it. Soak feet, wash them, hand you flip flops and sometimes tea to begin.
The owner of this spa, Ylang Ylang, was super gracious and inviting. I adored her as did Shari. Following this massage, Shari started arranging another session with them while we were in Hoi An. I think that the prior massage in Hanoi was so shockingly bad that this was the ideal way to bounce back. Clean space, therapists had definite training and they were so happy to accommodate us.
On the 28th of February (my personal holiday of sorts and the reason for our travel in Vietnam) we did not want to rush the day by adding a pre-arranged massage. Otherwise we would have returned to Ylang Ylang for another treatment. Instead, we found a place closer to where we were and were treated to a professional massage. Thai style, this time, and obviously a very established place in Hoi An. The tea following the massage was excellent. Ginger tea that was soothing.
Back to Ylang Ylang for a massage/pedicure treatment. This is the owner, Victoria. Super lovely lady and great therapist. Probably the best treatment I received while on vacation. We ran into while walking around Hoi An on our last night and she offered to have us come back in for a facial or just a foot treatment. I was seriously considering. The morning we toured My Son with Bao and I was a little tired and dreading the flight to Laos tomorrow. New city. New country. Was the traffic like that in Hanoi? How quickly would we adjust? So, yes, another treatment would be nice. We wrote post cards and had another incredible meal at Morning Glory café instead.
Checking into the hotel we chose to venture out. Vientiane was the capital and busy yet not as crazy as Hanoi. We saw more pick up trucks and higher end vehicles than scooters. We felt confident that we would be able to figure it out. This massage was nearby the hotel and offered a lovely thai massage. We walked past a hotel displaying massage where the woman was working alone and looked like she was sleeping where she would be performing the massage. Seemed odd and similar to the massage that Shari had walked out of.
Location of another massage in Vientiane. A guidebook suggestion where we became super frustrated with the guidebook. Supposedly three km from the city center we headed out. I knew what road we were looking for and as we continued to walk in the unbearable heat, I remembered living in Phoenix and stubbornly attempting to walk around Laveen instead of drive. Silly!
We stopped at a Japanese Tempenyaki place for lunch to cool off and look at the map again. We thought we knew where we were. However, there were no street signs to guide us to this steam sauna that I was so looking forward to. Aimlessly we walked around again before inquiring with two different tuk tuk drivers. I showed them where we wanted to go on the map and they had no clue what we were talking about. Picking a different direction we headed up a street where I spied a computer repair store. I figured someone would speak English and be able to assist us. He did and we headed out to find an embassy near the massage place.
Still no signs. No indication of the embassy. I was two seconds away from hailing a tuk tuk and heading back to the city center and finding a new place. I spotted an American who did help us. She walked us to the desired location and explained that she had been living in Laos for two years and loved it. We entered the location only to note that there was no signage showing where the massage was. This was the most frustrating day. We decided to leave and head back towards the city center when we saw the small sign saying steam sauna and massage. Finally! The fun doesn't end here though.
Yes, they did have a sauna and they asked us to change into their uniform before entering the sauna. No other indication of how to proceed. We sat in the sauna for 8 minutes before exiting. Drank some tea and waited to be told when we could go upstairs to have the massage. After 25 minutes, I was irritated. There were six other people sitting around the tea table and one therapist still working on one client.
The massage, itself, was mediocre. My lady kept pushing on my blisters on my feet. Too much attention to those and then she kept trying to pop my back, my sacrum. She yanked on my arms. I was not impressed.
The following day we consulted the guidebook again only to be disappointed. Suggestion wasn't even open for business. I was ready to throw the book away. We found a place, Daou, which offered a great thai massage. Shari's lady kept leaving and she had another therapist in her place. Kinda funny.
Luang Prabang was interesting. Our hotel was 3 km from the city center which required a shuttle to bus us around. We saw a place after our waterfall tour that would work for us. They donated part of their proceeds to benefit the community and it was a great massage.
We relied on the guidebook to find a place in Siem Reap. It was open, clean and easy to find. A thai massage the first night followed by an oil massage the last night. We felt great about this place and it did not disappoint.
Flying back to Bangkok, I wanted to return to the place we had received facials and massages. I liked it and knew I would receive a good treatment. Unfortunately, they were booked up and so we scrambled to arrange another massage. We had our hotel call Urban Retreat. They had an opening for a thai massage and we jumped on it. Great way to start and finish our massage adventure.
The massages varied in price from $8-$15. Of course there were nicer massages available and cheaper options, too. We only had the two crappy experiences and avoided any happy ending type of place. I am glad that we went this course while traveling through Southeast Asia. It was awesome and a one of a kind type of trip. Cheers to that!
jet lag continuing
I returned to Seattle on Friday at 9:30 am after departing from Bangkok on Friday at 9:50 am. We had a brief layover in Seoul where I slammed a beer. I think I might have slept two hours, total, while flying back to the States.
My layover in Seattle was almost five hours. I had to go through customs, immigration and security (again) before relaxing into the layover. Since I did not have a checked bag it was a simple transition into the terminal. I know people find it odd that I typically travel by only bringing carry-ons. I even left clothes and a pair of shoes in Laos. I grew tired of carrying around extra stuff that were only taking up space in my bag.
Shari had a terrible layover arranged and decided to alter her flight. Thankfully she was able to change her flight and leave around 1 pm. I settled in, barside, and watched basketball. Grateful to have returned in time for the tournament.
While sitting in the airport bar, I charged my phone and drank some wine. The time change and exhaustion hit me while sitting in Seattle. I did not think I would make it to my next flight without falling asleep somewhere. I reflected on my trip and wrote in my wine book that I changed into a journal. Seemed like a good idea on a previous trip. Sturdy with a pocket in the back of the book to hold my passport and other important documents. I wrote all of my addresses in the cover of the book (also handy) and made reflections in the pages. I have scribbles of hotel addresses, contacts, flight information, etc. It works.
At any rate, a quarter of the way through my first glass of pinot noir the bar fills up with other travelers. The allure of basketball does that, I think. I looked around and noted that most everyone else was on their phone. The guy next to me was reading and I was uncertain what book he was reading. I asked him what time it was. Odd question, these days, as the majority of people have phones with them at all times. Attached. I know that I rely heavily on mine unless I am charging it. And I looked road weary and casual. Sporting a KU shirt that has become my travel shirt on a side note. Many people stopped to comment on my shirt and ask if I was from Kansas. Instant conversation starter.
He looked at me and said, "don't you have a phone?"
My response, "I do. They are charging it for me."
I went back to writing and he continued reading. A little bit later we started chatting about travel, life and our reliance on phones. I asked him where he was heading and he told me Las Vegas to meet some buddies from college. I love Las Vegas for the food factor. I responded with, I love Vegas. He looked at me and said, "No offense, but based on your hippy look you don't seem like the Vegas type."
I am not the Vegas type. I do not go there to gamble or lead a glamorous life. I go there to eat.
I explained to him that I appeared super casual and weary due to the fact that I had been traveling for 24 hours and slept two hours. This opened up the conversation and led to how I manage to travel. Again, I mention that it is a priority to me as it is. I asked him what book he was reading and before he told me, I saw the author and referenced one of his other books. I think this guy almost fell out of his chair. Appearances can be deceiving, haha.
He left after buying me a glass of wine. Gratitude for that and it was an interesting conversation and way to pass time while waiting for my Denver flight. I boarded the Denver flight and slept for 45 minutes. My friend, Sara Jo, picked me up at the airport and we headed back in to the city. Of course we wanted to chit chat about my trip before she dropped me off. I arrived and then wanted to talk about my trip before trying to go to bed. I think I finally went to bed at 1:30 am. I woke up at 8 and rested until noon. The sleep was not great.
I forced myself up at noon and tried to stay awake by doing laundry, cleaning and taking a walk. I knew that I needed to buy some cream for my daily coffee which could wait since there is a coffee shop on the corner. I stayed up til 1:30 catching up on my shows (kinda lame and typical). Went to bed to wake up at 5 am. I almost cried I was so frustrated. I tried to go back to sleep which wasn't working. I plugged in my head phones and updated my photos and blog.
Around 8:45 am, I cycled over to a coffee shop to meet my aunt. Not too far and a gorgeous day to get outside. Coffee was nice but I could tell I was extremely overtired. My eyes hurt and I was having some difficulty focusing on the conversation. I rode back home and dropped my phone while in route. Awesome. I have dropped my phone so many times in the last few weeks. I am surprised that it has survived.
Anyways, I drop my phone and hurry to stop my bike so that it will not be run over. I stop too fast and fall off my bike scraping my left calf in the process. This is what exhaustion does to you. Silly mistakes and inability to complete simple tasks. I know I am tired and that I do, in fact, need to sleep more than three hours at a time. It will happen tonight. It has to.
More water. Rest. Relaxation. Sleep. In that order and I will recover from this.
My layover in Seattle was almost five hours. I had to go through customs, immigration and security (again) before relaxing into the layover. Since I did not have a checked bag it was a simple transition into the terminal. I know people find it odd that I typically travel by only bringing carry-ons. I even left clothes and a pair of shoes in Laos. I grew tired of carrying around extra stuff that were only taking up space in my bag.
Shari had a terrible layover arranged and decided to alter her flight. Thankfully she was able to change her flight and leave around 1 pm. I settled in, barside, and watched basketball. Grateful to have returned in time for the tournament.
While sitting in the airport bar, I charged my phone and drank some wine. The time change and exhaustion hit me while sitting in Seattle. I did not think I would make it to my next flight without falling asleep somewhere. I reflected on my trip and wrote in my wine book that I changed into a journal. Seemed like a good idea on a previous trip. Sturdy with a pocket in the back of the book to hold my passport and other important documents. I wrote all of my addresses in the cover of the book (also handy) and made reflections in the pages. I have scribbles of hotel addresses, contacts, flight information, etc. It works.
At any rate, a quarter of the way through my first glass of pinot noir the bar fills up with other travelers. The allure of basketball does that, I think. I looked around and noted that most everyone else was on their phone. The guy next to me was reading and I was uncertain what book he was reading. I asked him what time it was. Odd question, these days, as the majority of people have phones with them at all times. Attached. I know that I rely heavily on mine unless I am charging it. And I looked road weary and casual. Sporting a KU shirt that has become my travel shirt on a side note. Many people stopped to comment on my shirt and ask if I was from Kansas. Instant conversation starter.
He looked at me and said, "don't you have a phone?"
My response, "I do. They are charging it for me."
I went back to writing and he continued reading. A little bit later we started chatting about travel, life and our reliance on phones. I asked him where he was heading and he told me Las Vegas to meet some buddies from college. I love Las Vegas for the food factor. I responded with, I love Vegas. He looked at me and said, "No offense, but based on your hippy look you don't seem like the Vegas type."
I am not the Vegas type. I do not go there to gamble or lead a glamorous life. I go there to eat.
I explained to him that I appeared super casual and weary due to the fact that I had been traveling for 24 hours and slept two hours. This opened up the conversation and led to how I manage to travel. Again, I mention that it is a priority to me as it is. I asked him what book he was reading and before he told me, I saw the author and referenced one of his other books. I think this guy almost fell out of his chair. Appearances can be deceiving, haha.
He left after buying me a glass of wine. Gratitude for that and it was an interesting conversation and way to pass time while waiting for my Denver flight. I boarded the Denver flight and slept for 45 minutes. My friend, Sara Jo, picked me up at the airport and we headed back in to the city. Of course we wanted to chit chat about my trip before she dropped me off. I arrived and then wanted to talk about my trip before trying to go to bed. I think I finally went to bed at 1:30 am. I woke up at 8 and rested until noon. The sleep was not great.
I forced myself up at noon and tried to stay awake by doing laundry, cleaning and taking a walk. I knew that I needed to buy some cream for my daily coffee which could wait since there is a coffee shop on the corner. I stayed up til 1:30 catching up on my shows (kinda lame and typical). Went to bed to wake up at 5 am. I almost cried I was so frustrated. I tried to go back to sleep which wasn't working. I plugged in my head phones and updated my photos and blog.
Around 8:45 am, I cycled over to a coffee shop to meet my aunt. Not too far and a gorgeous day to get outside. Coffee was nice but I could tell I was extremely overtired. My eyes hurt and I was having some difficulty focusing on the conversation. I rode back home and dropped my phone while in route. Awesome. I have dropped my phone so many times in the last few weeks. I am surprised that it has survived.
Anyways, I drop my phone and hurry to stop my bike so that it will not be run over. I stop too fast and fall off my bike scraping my left calf in the process. This is what exhaustion does to you. Silly mistakes and inability to complete simple tasks. I know I am tired and that I do, in fact, need to sleep more than three hours at a time. It will happen tonight. It has to.
More water. Rest. Relaxation. Sleep. In that order and I will recover from this.
Delights from Hoi An
We agreed to head to Central Vietnam for four nights. We knew that we would spend the anniversary in Hue or perhaps Hoi An. I had heard good things about both places. It would be much easier to fly to Danang and then take a shuttle to Hoi An instead of flying into Hue. Our homestay arranged a taxi for us from Danang to Hoi An. Seemed perfect. A quieter foodie city where we would be able to spend days before heading south or out of the country.
We pondered our options. The main thing would be flying back to Bangkok to catch our flight back to the States. The easiest cost effective option would be to fly from Ho Chi Minh. Yet that seemed like a terrifying option especially after speaking with others who had been there. Bigger than Hanoi. More people. More scooters. Yikes! Wouldn't there be a way from Laos or Cambodia?
After some serious consideration and thought, we decided to remain in Hoi An for five days and four nights before leaving the country. I really wanted to check out Laos. I kept hearing about how wonderful it was. Not to mention, I do like the idea of acquiring more passport stamps.
So we landed in Hoi An.
It was a wonderful way to celebrate Brian's life. Ten years has passed since he died. I remember him every day and miss him.
We pondered our options. The main thing would be flying back to Bangkok to catch our flight back to the States. The easiest cost effective option would be to fly from Ho Chi Minh. Yet that seemed like a terrifying option especially after speaking with others who had been there. Bigger than Hanoi. More people. More scooters. Yikes! Wouldn't there be a way from Laos or Cambodia?
After some serious consideration and thought, we decided to remain in Hoi An for five days and four nights before leaving the country. I really wanted to check out Laos. I kept hearing about how wonderful it was. Not to mention, I do like the idea of acquiring more passport stamps.
So we landed in Hoi An.
Bike tour on the 28th where we crossed this bridge. Not quite as sketchy as it looked. Preferable to ride as opposed to walk. Believe me, much easier. We started the 28th with a bike tour. Seemed ideal in terms of celebrating Brian. If only it had been a bike tour. I think we biked 6 km. Not much of a ride. The majority of the tour was spent touring villages and learning their crafts. In my mind, we would be cycling.
After the seven hour tour, we chose to get a massage. There was a recommendation in the guidebook that looked nice. Finding it easily, we headed to the parlor. Of course it was full of people and unlikely that we would receive any bodywork for an hour if not more. Before leaving, they managed to rearrange their schedule and find an opening for us. We both were happy and liked this establishment. Professional and established with great therapists. Plus the ginger tea that followed the massage was delicious.
We made dinner reservations at Morning Glory Café. Perfection. Specifically for that occasion. Celebrating Brian's life on the 10 year anniversary. Great wine list and so many food options. I was a little overwhelmed. Choosing the bbq pork wraps to begin kicked off our meal. The morning glory salad evaded us not once, but twice. We returned a few nights later to enjoy this dish and again informed that this meal was unavailable. Popular dish.
I had read about the pork stuffed squid and smoked eggplant. I knew we would be trying both of those dishes. In addition, we tried the bitter melon as a side dish. The squid was good, not great. The eggplant was amazing. I fell in love with this dish as did Shari. And the bitter melon offered the right amount of greens. The dessert options were not exciting or sexy. Meaning, they did not offer chocolate. A little sad but we got over it.
Hoi An was my favorite city that we visited while in Southeast Asia. Great food, vibe and easy to get around. We could have went to Danang, Hue or Paradise Cave. For whatever reason, staying in Hoi An captivated our attention. The next night we restaurant hopped for dinner. While sitting at a restaurant enjoying wine (obviously) we befriended our waiter. We asked him where we could find a good banh mi sandwich. Minutes later he returns with part of his banh mi for us to sample. This started our friendship.
He offered to take us on a custom tour the following day. Either back to Danang or My Son. We agreed to My Son. We had flown into Danang and so returning there seemed silly.
Our only requirement was that we would not be forced to shop or buy items from locals. I told Bao that I wanted a banh mi sandwich and coffee to start the day. He told us that that would not be an issue. He arrived with his wife and two scooters that would be our transportation for the day. The banh mi was delicious. We were escorted to My Son making brief stops along the way. My Son was great and our first venture into seeing temples. We managed to avoid this for a solid week. Afterwards we stopped for lunch at a truly local spot. We were the only westerners in the joint. Bao ordered for us. The first course was not exactly what I envisioned. Veal skin with greens. I tried to fill up on greens to not be rude. Next we had shrimp, cilantro and noodles. Finally, we tried a seafood stew. Too much food but lovely. Of course there was a language barrier to contend with. Bao speaks good English and he understood us without us telling him too much about ourselves. We wanted good food, local spots and a soulful experience. He provided all of them.
He recognized Shari's sadness and wanted her to be happy. He saw that she was a genuine person and had heart. He went out of his way to ensure a great tour for us. We stopped at a cemetery and it was perfect. I know it sounds morbid, I do. Yet, it was perfect. His grandmother had died a year ago and his family would be adding the photo to the headstone that day, a year after she had passed. In reality, we were a day early. Her grave had an offering plate, flowers and Bao brought more incense.
We had another stop to purchase a notebook. Shari had forgotten her journal and there were so many things that we were experiencing. Writing them down, daily, helped. We looked in Hanoi and Hoi An and were unable to find any sort of note pad. Bao fixed that for us immediately. Seemed so simple.
It's funny how people that you need enter your life exactly when you need them. I don't know how Bao knew how to find us or offer to be our tour guide.
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