Gardening... stops time?
So, life granted me a few extra hours on a Tuesday afternoon. What to do? Being it is early February in the Pacific Northwest, NOT raining, and actually in the lower to mid-60's. I did what most would have done with this opportunity, I spent this time believing, however silly, that Spring had arrived! So I spent the $50 and grabbed the best locally available compost and I re-introduced these vital nutrients into my sad and dilapidated garden pots from last year. I won't lie, my expectations are two-fold: perfectly beautiful, SUNSET magazine flower display and this perfect day with perfect weather to last until next year. It is almost impossible for that to actually happen so I may have set myself up for disappointment, but it was such a lovely moment. Pictures of the fruits of my labor will follow soon. Already seeing the beautiful buds of my Clematis and Azaleas... SO beautiful. Looking to add some window planters, anyone have any planting suggestions?
....A New Beginning.
It has been about 4 years since I have posted on this blog. A shame really. Life has come and gone in a rather challenging 4 years of life which I presume is the main component in me choosing to stop blogging. Well, I have had a change of heart. Good or bad, you are going to hear from me. I will be spending some time altering the look and feel of this blog but feel this outlet is unrivaled and wish to start sharing my life again.
My Recommendations in Paradise...
Maui is simply a gem. I must admit for the last few years, I was under the faulty impression that Maui was simply NOT a destination for me. I was convinced that the lush rainforest and beautiful sandy beaches were simply a spot for honeymooners and not quite the pulse I was looking for. I could not have been more wrong. This place has so much to offer and the best part is it is all accessible in a rather short stint of time. Case and point...
Yesterday was Mt Halleakala, the only tour I booked on this trip as I wanted as much freedom as possible, a style of traveling I would recommend as the flexibility proves priceless. However... as tours go, this was pretty spectacular. A 2AM pickup at lodging, and after they round up all the others and you head up the mountain. To everyone's surprise, we had the first lightening storm in years up there and they recommended we all stay in the vehicle upon arrival at the summit some 11,000 feet up. I did not heed there advice and ventured off into the FREEZing misty abyss. It was well worth it. It was not the best sunrise they have ever had up there do to visibility, but it was nevertheless mesmerizing. Mt Halleakala is like mars, it is literally unbelievable -- so spectacular I am hoping I can fit one more jaunt up the Mt to hike the Sliding Sands trail... we will see, I hope I can make it happen. I will keep you informed.
Now for the real treat... Haeleakalla bike company. There are many touring companies that bike down the volcano, but most are guided. This means they have a rider in front, a van in back and you follow the leaders pace. BORING -- Haeleakala bike company is the only non-guided tour there is. After sunrise, you are given a bike, instructions on where to turn so you don't get lost and there number in case something malfunctions. I was off.... I met Nick and Chuck, my new best friends for this ride and they insisted I set the pace. It was an error on their part as I flew off at breakneck speed. I had no idea how exhilarating it would be to speed down a volcano on a gravity bike... the problem with the speed is the intense switchbacks all the way down, you are flying down the mountain which is simply unreal and then you have a blind curve/switchback to contend with... awesome! You then ride through lovely and aromatic Eucalyptus forests followed by lavendar fields... awe inspiring. I can't recommend this enough... truth: if you are an adventure junky like myself, this has the potential to be rather dangerous... I couldn't go fast enough, the boys couldn't keep up with me. SMILE! Took a little over an hour of sheer delight. This is the best $99 I have ever spent. So, folks -- don't forget, this will NOT be as exciting if you take one of the guided tours. They are boring. They stop at all the expected "viewpoints" and you pull over for all vehicles behind you. Come on... I made the vehicles go around me! If you can ride a bike, this will blow your mind.
Nick took me out for a lovely breakfast -- recommended by the locals and not found in any guidebook, North Shore cafe in Haiku is utterly amazing. Sweet people, great vibe, and the best corn beef hash I have ever had with cheesy/bacon potatos and POG (passion/orange/guava) juice. Guess what folks... $5.85. Hawaii does not have to be expensive... you have options.
I spent the rest of yesterday snorkeling ... went from beach to beach, the water was pretty choppy which makes for tough snorkeling, but tomorrow is a new day. This morning I am off to see Iao Needle hike and then part of the Hana drive. Wish me luck! Talk soon!
Krista
Maui....
So, it's a beautiful fall this year. Feeling rather nostalgic, just a great feeling in the air-- something tells me that major life change is just around the bend. For the next six days though, I will be taking time out for myself to rest, relax, and focus my perspective. My first trip to Hawaii and i am stoked! There is simply no better feeing than being on the cusp of a great adventure -- better than most things. Maui is the destination of choice and for those days I will be unavailable as I will be spending all of my time exploring all the bodies of water Hawaii has to offer.
So, I spent the last two days trying to figure out how I was going to pack everything into a small carry-on backpack. Success... look at that beautiful picture, it includes: Tent, Sleeping bag, laptop, camera, snorkel, mask, fins, clothes, and of course toiletries. I am proud of this accomplishment. A small victory but nevertheless a victory.
Finally, I have compiled a great list of musical gems to accompany this trip since music is a bit of a pulse in my life I will be updating you with my current sounds and musical stylings. Playing now is Holocene by Bon Iver... the perfect pre-trip mood music. I love it! Off to board the plane! Later!
...most serious injury thus far!
It has become apparent that I am prone to injury while doing the most mundane things. Woodworking all day -- no issues, injury free so far. Cleaning out my trunk and relocating important items into their appropriate home inside my apartment___that is imminent danger! This evening whilst attempting to clean out my trunk to make room for my ever expanding collection of woodworking tools and African Mahogany, I managed in the darkness of the night (as the outside light burned out 6 months ago) to drop my very new, very sharp 1/2" chisel on top of my left foot just behind my big toe. At first, not realizing it was in fact the chisel I dropped, I thought nothing of it...not much pain at all, I continued "packing" my trunk until i realized I was standing in a puddle of blood. At first, I didn't quite believe it was coming from my foot. I get bruises all the time, but I have never really been "hurt." Pretty soon the panic set in. I waddled into the front door making my way up the rather treacherous stairway to my front door. Once I got into the light from inside the apartment I realized I was hemorrhaging from my left foot, I began to freak out. Anyone that knows me can attest that I am good in a crisis as long as YOU are the one bleeding. If I am bleeding, game over, I will become light-headed, convince myself I am dying and insist on lying on the floor demanding to be covered in ice. Not sure what the ice is for, but I will insist on it!
This time, I was alone... I was at the front door of my apartment trying to figure out how I could get into my apartment without getting blood all over my carpet. I really did think about the $500 security deposit... I want that money back when I leave. Bloody footprints along my oatmeal colored carpet would be a bitch to clean so I grabbed my yoga mat bag I just made and wrapped it around my left foot and leaped with one foot until I hit linoleum. In case this ever happens to you... leaping through your apartment in an effort to get from the front door to the kitchen as cleanly as possible doesn't really work... it actually acts almost like a centrifuge and spurts blood everywhere and in all directions (I thought it poor taste to post images). There was blood everywhere... I didn't quite know what to do. Calling 911 seemed to be a bit much, I didn't cut my foot off, I just marred it a little bit, and the expense to ride in an ambulance is far to great. I have done that before. Totally SUCKED. So I stood up briefly trying to locate my phone which tends to be lost but as luck would have it, it was sitting right on my island where I last put it. I called my parents. I told my mom I had dropped my chisel on my foot and I was about to pass out and she should really come over. I wanted water but couldn't stand up. Like the wonderful parents they are, they hoped in the car and came over. Of course, I called Maryalice to get some moral support she is good in these situations. Since I was panicking, she told me to put pressure on the wound and to relax and breathe.
My parents arrived... my dad came rushing into my apartment not knowing how bad it was fully prepared with his ER kit. Like any good father would do, he poured alcohol directly on the wound without warning. There are no words to really describe that moment -- agony doesn't really even come close, but if I had to choose a word, I suppose that will suffice. On the bright side, it was now sterilized and clean, fingers crossed, no amputation necessary. So, my dad being the outdoorsy man he is,stopped the bleeding decided that although 3 stitches would be helpful, he could provide the same treatment with a package of butterfly bandaids and some weird anti-germ cream. As it was after my bedtime and the idea of stitches was entirely unappealing, I trusted my father and his mad skills. My mom appeared back from the store with the necessary quantity of butterfly bandages and my dad went to work. My left foot looks a bit mummified, but overall, it was successful! I suppose time will tell --now for a new life rule. No task will be completed without the use of footwear. Felted clogs would have been a lovely barrier had I chosen to wear them. Lesson learned!!! Color has returned to my face and I am feeling rather sleepy... so off to bed! Goodnight!!
This time, I was alone... I was at the front door of my apartment trying to figure out how I could get into my apartment without getting blood all over my carpet. I really did think about the $500 security deposit... I want that money back when I leave. Bloody footprints along my oatmeal colored carpet would be a bitch to clean so I grabbed my yoga mat bag I just made and wrapped it around my left foot and leaped with one foot until I hit linoleum. In case this ever happens to you... leaping through your apartment in an effort to get from the front door to the kitchen as cleanly as possible doesn't really work... it actually acts almost like a centrifuge and spurts blood everywhere and in all directions (I thought it poor taste to post images). There was blood everywhere... I didn't quite know what to do. Calling 911 seemed to be a bit much, I didn't cut my foot off, I just marred it a little bit, and the expense to ride in an ambulance is far to great. I have done that before. Totally SUCKED. So I stood up briefly trying to locate my phone which tends to be lost but as luck would have it, it was sitting right on my island where I last put it. I called my parents. I told my mom I had dropped my chisel on my foot and I was about to pass out and she should really come over. I wanted water but couldn't stand up. Like the wonderful parents they are, they hoped in the car and came over. Of course, I called Maryalice to get some moral support she is good in these situations. Since I was panicking, she told me to put pressure on the wound and to relax and breathe.
My parents arrived... my dad came rushing into my apartment not knowing how bad it was fully prepared with his ER kit. Like any good father would do, he poured alcohol directly on the wound without warning. There are no words to really describe that moment -- agony doesn't really even come close, but if I had to choose a word, I suppose that will suffice. On the bright side, it was now sterilized and clean, fingers crossed, no amputation necessary. So, my dad being the outdoorsy man he is,stopped the bleeding decided that although 3 stitches would be helpful, he could provide the same treatment with a package of butterfly bandaids and some weird anti-germ cream. As it was after my bedtime and the idea of stitches was entirely unappealing, I trusted my father and his mad skills. My mom appeared back from the store with the necessary quantity of butterfly bandages and my dad went to work. My left foot looks a bit mummified, but overall, it was successful! I suppose time will tell --now for a new life rule. No task will be completed without the use of footwear. Felted clogs would have been a lovely barrier had I chosen to wear them. Lesson learned!!! Color has returned to my face and I am feeling rather sleepy... so off to bed! Goodnight!!
The perfect day!
Today was not newsworthy... definitely no life altering moments in and of themselves, however, this day was such a joy I thought I would post it. So, not often would I celebrate such an early morning, but it happend to be one of lifes oddities... I awoke from my slumber completely rested at 4:30AM??? Perhaps the previous evenings Bikram Yoga experience??? Who knows... nevertheless, what do you do when the whole world is asleep on a Friday morning? Make your way to the gym of course___ 5:45a cycle class to be specific. Rather invigorating starting a day off with an intense sweat... and, to have the daily workout completely before 7a on a day off is an utterly amazing start. So, the only people who would be awake an available this early would be my folks so I made the surprise visit to stop by after class, secretly hoping for fresh scrambled eggs and bacon which my wonderful mother happily provided for me. I am so very blessed! To make this day even better, I brought over the lamp I wanted to sell them and got a rather generous $40, along with lbs of meat, canned goods, and a bouquet of flowers. Aren't parents amazing! I love you guys!!
So, after my shower, I rushed over to the emissions testing and took care of that... I passed!!! YAYAYAYAY! So, then I packed up a bunch of things I no longer needed -- as I have promised myself I will NEVER be over a size 8 ever again so anything above and beyond must go which happens to me the majority of the clothing I own -- I sent it off to the Goodwill. Done! Now, I took a few select pieces and a drove of books down to Portland. Sold the books for $30.75 at Powells and the clothes for $15 at Buffalo Exchange. In total, I brought home $85.75 today which isn't half bad for a day off work. Spent a few dollars on an adorable new sweater and off to Sauvie's Island for the $17 box of green beans. Dilly bean adventure here we come! The Pumpkin Patch red barn was my destination and I got the box of beans, some dried red peppers, and dill weed. Next destination HOME.
Any day off must have some relaxing so upon arriving home, the next hour was spent laying out on the back patio absorbing some very important vitaming D. As I don't do sun very well, I had to move inside rather quickly and spent another hour in bed taking a nap. Ha... you thought I wouldn't be able to fit it in... WRONG. While I was sleeping I had the jars sanitizing in the dishwasher so as not to waste any valuable time. Also, my stove doesn't heat up such an enormous pot very well, so I got that started early -- put on some music... currently enjoying MMJ, and cut the flower tips off of all the beans. This is quite a project. Once the sanitation cycle was completely, I began individually stuffing the beans, dill weed, garlic, pepper, salt, and spices into the jar... followed up with Apple Cider Vinegar because it is so good, and then cold water to the top. I will provide the recipe at the end of this novel for all to enjoy. Finally in the hot water bath they go. Get to a rolling boil and use the tongs to place 7 jars in at a time. Once a rolling boil, set timer for 10 minutes. When done, pull out and place on towel and cover up. Do NOT have windows open, a cold breeze will crack the jars and your efforts will be wasted and nobody wants to clean that up. Completed. Now, we wait weeks and weeks to eat them -- I promise they are worth it.
Overall a stellar day... and the weekend hasn't really even begun, oh and I washed my sheets in there somewhere...blissful day. Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Here is the recipe for the dilly beans, a major thanks to the Southard Family:
*Into a plain quart jar, pack clean beans, (cut off the tip of the blossom).
*Add one large head dill weed.
*One and a half tbsp mixed pickling spices.
*One garlic bud, one large or two small dried red peppers.
*One and one half tablespoons pickling salt.
*One half cup cider vinegar.
*Fill jar with cold water seal tightly as possible.
*Keep in warm place.
*Shake occasionally, then keep in cold place.
10 minute water bath. Warming your water to 180 and putting the jars into hot water. Then bring to rolling boil and begin timer for 10 minutes. THen pull out of water and keep under a towel.
a flashback....
Spending a copias amount of time at work is beginning to wear me out. It appears that this intensity forworking has permeated my friends as well and we have decided ENOUGH is ENOUGH. The mundane weeknight evenings of a quick supper followed by a mediocre film whilst laying on the couch recovering from a 10-12 hour shift, only to spend the weekends recovering from our mid-week laziness with laundry and the necessary domestic obligations needs to come to a swift and classy ending. So, what did we propose? Well, dancing of course! The Crystal Ballrooms infamous Friday night 80's dance party was the first thing on theagenda... Why have we not ever done this before? If spending hours with hundreds of strangers dripping with sweat, dancing to the 80's in a small cube with the intense aroma of body odor and marijuana permeating your clothing doesn't get you excited... well, I don't know what to tell you. Must note: one floor below was the Underwear Dance party which had I known about I would have definitely planned on attending... half naked dancing in public... liberating or violating? So, as life is too short to be taken seriously and I must post that which would most likely mortify others --I have provided a before and AFTER image of our lovely evening. I can't stop laughing... must be noted, alcohol was not a contributing factor -- CLASSY huh!
'Eve'
The thank you cards are written... and it is the EVE of 27. A lovely left over dinner, a nice glass of wine, candles, a hot bath, and one of my favorite movies will usher me into the next year. So, what is in store? I simply can't wait to see what this year has to offer. It has been quite a trip these last few years. Nothing short of life altering every few weeks... I feel this year is going to be quite similar. The great news... we are constantly improving.
So, I have a new tent, endless vacation time and the willingness to see the Pacific Northwest - anyone with me? So, the funds aren't there for much international travel, but there will be nothing to stop me from seeing all the wonderful things there are to offer here -- next week, Eastern Oregon. John Day Painted Hills, Wallowa Mountains and every open hot springs we can find along the way!
See ya soon!
Krista
Rejuvenated...
An utterly divine weekend. Begun rather simply with a marvelous slumber... sleeping through all programmed athletic events. Too bad. Instead, feeling the need to rest up as a result of my knee showing some sign of repetitive stress this past week. I spent the morning passing on the things in my home I no longer desired to have, which included, clothing, jewelry, and some household goodies -- Portland is a great place to relinquish those items one no longer feels necessary and in turn, this generosity is often accompanied by a monetary gain. SWEET!
Upon returning home, i got the urge to cook. Anyone who knows me can attest that I rarely begin at the basics, instead I usually leap to the level of professional and end up crashing and burning as a result. So, I thought it was time for me to learn to cook something other than a chicken breast. As good as a chicken dish can be, there are times when I crave something a little more exotic... like a pork chop. To most, this is far from an adventure, but for my measly cooking skills, it seemed like a very good idea. There are days I feel the desire and somehow I know things will turn out well, it only happens every once in awhile, but those days it is like I know I have the energy and patience to do it right... other days, I know it will fail but i try anyways in hopes that cutting the corners will show me some quick and effortless dish that NOBODY has ever created before. Yes folks, I am a dreamer - this has always failed. Patience seems to be the key for so many things. HUH?!
Well, back to the Pork Chop. So, I found this wonderful glaze and I browned the chops over the stove and than once browned, baked them in the oven on 375 until yummy, golden, and about 150 degrees alongside some Crimini Mushrooms and Cauliflower. I also added some Swiss Chard to the mix with garlic and balsalmic (don't add too much vinegar... fyi). It was a lovely meal and I was utterly impressed with myself.
With that much success, I felt the confidence to bust out the sewing machine and finished making a heap of kitchen towels I had intended to complete awhile ago and overall completed a very wonderful day! I hope this weekend and the beginning of this new year as been equally enlightening. Love to hear from you all!
Krista
Laughter...
Laughter. I love it. I will forever be searching for it and willing to succumb to it at every moment it appears. I wish we could be in the throws of laughter more frequently. I find it strange that there are moments in life where laughter, a behavior we all desire frequently, is often frowned upon... rejected into the dark corner abyss of the office. Here is a link to a video that made me laugh until I cried. I watched it repeatedly... others didn't find it as funny?!
Enjoy and I hope you find it as funny as I did. Cheers!
Enjoy and I hope you find it as funny as I did. Cheers!
Time Passes
So, another Christmas has past. It is interesting to me how far we can come in a year's time. I am perhaps as happy and content as I have ever been in life. I do have to wonder if perhaps it is my independence that has spurred this burst of excitement and enthusiasm for life's little pleasures? Maybe it has just been nice to be settled after a fair bit of time up in a jumble -- not really sure it matters. This year has been utterly divine. The things I have learned and the feelings of accomplishment, however small they may be, have given me a sense of calm and true moments of confidence. Of course, come down off the glass of wine and there are a dozen things still needing accomplishment, but for now, I am going to bask in the moment of contentment and feel pleased that I have been gifted with such love and comfort that surrounds me. Thanks to my family, friends, and everyone that has touched me in one way or another... I will forever be grateful!!!
End of a Vacation Era...
So, the near two weeks of vacation has ended. If you look at it on paper, not too bad. A trip abroad, a long weekend of rest and relaxation void any actual obligations. Followed by a brief working stint and then a delightful Thanksgiving break. Really can't ask for a greater bit of time off. Spent some amazing evenings with friends and family and I am truly greatly for this... I have very little to complain about so, here are a few of the things I am grateful for:
1.) Family and Friends -- you all have made me who I am and I can't even express my gratitude.
2.) Job -- Having a job I care enough about to get frustrated and upset at times is proof that I in fact care about what I am doing and where I am going. This is a blessing and nothing less.
3.) Outdoors -- Literally, it is a cheaper form of therapy. I feel alive when I am outside and living in it... I have to be thankful for the most amazing snow this weekend which was the best night on the mountain I have had in ages.
4.) My apartment - Sometimes in life, you are given a gift so glorious you must thank the stars everynight... this apartment is that for me. This marks the beginning of my independence and I am utterly grateful. I am a new person for this moment... Robyn, thank you!
5.) Wine -- Good wine -- there are no words.
6.) Fall - It is a mysterious season... moments it is here and others it gets confused with winter. Those days where Fall has the confidence to really shine are amazing and overwhelming with crisp, outstanding beauty. Thanks
7.) Woodworking -- this has also altered my life in a big way. It is a newfound outlet for me that has undefinable boundaries... frankly, I feel like it might be my creative ticket... I am excited to see where this goes, I have confidence that I can create beauty. I have a long way to go, but that has never stopped me before. (Thanks John)
8.) Vanilla Ice Cream -- No need to comment ... just damn good.
9.) Learning -- The capacity to learn is a gift so important I hope never to lose it. Life is about learning and gaining knowledge and experience. I believe I do this quite well, perhaps, unorthodox, but definitely learning.
10.) Exercise -- I love that there is something out there that is good for me and alternatively makes me feel better. So many things I LOVE are in fact a tad detrimental to myself or my circumstances. Exercise is one of the few that makes me a better person and even a better version of who I am and I am grateful... simply grateful.
So, those are the few things today... also, candles, they are amazing!!! Love you all,
Krista
1.) Family and Friends -- you all have made me who I am and I can't even express my gratitude.
2.) Job -- Having a job I care enough about to get frustrated and upset at times is proof that I in fact care about what I am doing and where I am going. This is a blessing and nothing less.
3.) Outdoors -- Literally, it is a cheaper form of therapy. I feel alive when I am outside and living in it... I have to be thankful for the most amazing snow this weekend which was the best night on the mountain I have had in ages.
4.) My apartment - Sometimes in life, you are given a gift so glorious you must thank the stars everynight... this apartment is that for me. This marks the beginning of my independence and I am utterly grateful. I am a new person for this moment... Robyn, thank you!
5.) Wine -- Good wine -- there are no words.
6.) Fall - It is a mysterious season... moments it is here and others it gets confused with winter. Those days where Fall has the confidence to really shine are amazing and overwhelming with crisp, outstanding beauty. Thanks
7.) Woodworking -- this has also altered my life in a big way. It is a newfound outlet for me that has undefinable boundaries... frankly, I feel like it might be my creative ticket... I am excited to see where this goes, I have confidence that I can create beauty. I have a long way to go, but that has never stopped me before. (Thanks John)
8.) Vanilla Ice Cream -- No need to comment ... just damn good.
9.) Learning -- The capacity to learn is a gift so important I hope never to lose it. Life is about learning and gaining knowledge and experience. I believe I do this quite well, perhaps, unorthodox, but definitely learning.
10.) Exercise -- I love that there is something out there that is good for me and alternatively makes me feel better. So many things I LOVE are in fact a tad detrimental to myself or my circumstances. Exercise is one of the few that makes me a better person and even a better version of who I am and I am grateful... simply grateful.
So, those are the few things today... also, candles, they are amazing!!! Love you all,
Krista
Grills... and... stench sanitizers...!!!
What a fabulous advert for a grill... classy! Looked up a dictionary definition of GRILL - Here is how it translates in Spanglish:En la cultura hip hop un grill es un tipo de joyería bling bling que se lleva en los dientes
'Bling Bling' translates regardless of the language you speak. Neat!
Here is a real treat -- in upscale establishments, the bathrooms have a Systema Odocontrol .. aka... stink vacuum. The tube is allocated directly into the toilet bowl centimeters away from the ...dare I say it -- P - Shoot. It is so hilarious to me -- I took a picture for your viewing pleasure. What a concept, surprised it hasn't taken off in the States? Something to ponder? Talk soon!!
Observations in Mexico
So, my first full day across the border was pretty great. A few minor hiccups became apparent this evening when I realized my sunscreen lathering technique was sub-par. I seemed to recall accomplishing that task, but, it is very apparent in the photos I will provide that I in fact mis-remembered. Oops. Lucky for me it looks far worse than it feels.
My Mexican breakfast was delightful, went to a charming (touristy) little spot on the beach called The Office (see photo below). The food was great, the staff was pleasant and you can't beat that view. Everything in Mexico appears to be ver
y fresh, and therefore tasty... the guacamole is nothing I have ever tasted, each place it is different, but so GOOD. Even the America fair is pretty darn good and quite cheap. Leftovers for tomorrow and I only paid $6.
You see more Americans here than you see Mexicans which is a little sad. Pretty apparent when you look around that Cabo San Lucas hardly exhibits the authentic Mexico experience. If you wish to see true Mexican life... walk a few blocks north of Cabo and there it is... you cannot miss it. Some observations and recommendations: One - pedestrians do NOT have the right of way. They will NOT stop. Do not make this mistake. Two- if you are travelling alone as a women, buy a cheap ring and where it on your wedding ring finger... it will deter a few unnecessary comments and make general mingling a bit easier -- you are taken. Three - mini bugs (like our ants, but nearly microscopic) are everywhere... the beds, the floor, the ceiling, the shower... you simply cannot get away from them. They are extremely tiny and therefore cannot bite you in any way, but I suppose this would be a deterant for some. So, consider this a warning. Yes, I did ask around and it appears it is not just an issue for those staying in budget-friendly establishments.
Well I will leave you tonight with a few photos from my journey so far, Mexico is very photogenic ... well you only get one... blogspot formatting is very odd... sorry!!
My Mexican breakfast was delightful, went to a charming (touristy) little spot on the beach called The Office (see photo below). The food was great, the staff was pleasant and you can't beat that view. Everything in Mexico appears to be ver
y fresh, and therefore tasty... the guacamole is nothing I have ever tasted, each place it is different, but so GOOD. Even the America fair is pretty darn good and quite cheap. Leftovers for tomorrow and I only paid $6.You see more Americans here than you see Mexicans which is a little sad. Pretty apparent when you look around that Cabo San Lucas hardly exhibits the authentic Mexico experience. If you wish to see true Mexican life... walk a few blocks north of Cabo and there it is... you cannot miss it. Some observations and recommendations: One - pedestrians do NOT have the right of way. They will NOT stop. Do not make this mistake. Two- if you are travelling alone as a women, buy a cheap ring and where it on your wedding ring finger... it will deter a few unnecessary comments and make general mingling a bit easier -- you are taken. Three - mini bugs (like our ants, but nearly microscopic) are everywhere... the beds, the floor, the ceiling, the shower... you simply cannot get away from them. They are extremely tiny and therefore cannot bite you in any way, but I suppose this would be a deterant for some. So, consider this a warning. Yes, I did ask around and it appears it is not just an issue for those staying in budget-friendly establishments.
Well I will leave you tonight with a few photos from my journey so far, Mexico is very photogenic ... well you only get one... blogspot formatting is very odd... sorry!!
Sleepy Post
Good morning from Mexico. I have arisen before the sun today... that is not typical here in Cabo as most of you know, partying until the wee hours of the morning is not only condoned, but expected and frankly... encouraged. Sorry to disappoint, but I do things a bit different and was asleep last night at 7:30p hence the early morning-- not a surprise.
Plan on getting a lovely breakfast of shredded beef with eggs and potatos and beans ... can you believe that... BREAKFAST!!! YUM... and on a beautiful beach no less. Maybe a nice beach jog, and a photo expedition, perhaps a nap, then the sunbathing, and a sunset cruise to lovers beach ($30)!! My dinner last night at my very first authentic Mexican restaurant, El Pollo De Oro, was unlike anything I have ever eaten for $6 -- see photo. Unbelievable!!!
Plan on getting a lovely breakfast of shredded beef with eggs and potatos and beans ... can you believe that... BREAKFAST!!! YUM... and on a beautiful beach no less. Maybe a nice beach jog, and a photo expedition, perhaps a nap, then the sunbathing, and a sunset cruise to lovers beach ($30)!! My dinner last night at my very first authentic Mexican restaurant, El Pollo De Oro, was unlike anything I have ever eaten for $6 -- see photo. Unbelievable!!!
Mexico at last!
I have finally done it!! I purchased a plane ticket that departed within 24hrs to a destination outside the U.S. Crazy? Well, some might argue that such rash and spontaneous decisions are bound to end in fiscal disappointment or utter regret, but I feel there is something to throwing caution to the wind and living the life you have imagined. I feel alive today and that will forever be worthy of defending.
So, my destination this year is Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Just a few days of sun and sand I believe I will feel as good as any prescription a doctor could prescribe, so I will test that theory and advise very soon! Well, off to boarding!!!
KB
So, my destination this year is Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Just a few days of sun and sand I believe I will feel as good as any prescription a doctor could prescribe, so I will test that theory and advise very soon! Well, off to boarding!!!
KB
Chef in Training...
I've done it--- after twenty-five long years, I live alone. An accomplishment, that for those who have known me, might have bet against --- my affinity for international travel has been a bit of a roadblock on the way to full acceptance of adult responsibility. However, life does bequeath us with great opportunities and I was given the chance to relocate to a beautiful, two bedroom condo-ish apartment in Downtown Vancouver. For the first time in quite awhile I feel like my life and my personal circumstances have optimistically collided and I am now living in a very beautiful home that is all my own.
So why am I writing? Well, I feel the need to pontificate about a certain roadblock in my quest to become a domestic goddess. What is this mysterious roadblock? Well.... CHICKEN. I cannot cook chicken -- twice failed in the length of three days. Where have I gone wrong? I love to eat, no surprise and a moist and juicy chicken breast is simply divine. So, if anyone reads this, please provide any comments and perhaps tips regarding the best chicken breast you ever ate and perhaps how it was prepared. For anyone also learning to conquer this beast, let me quickly jot down my most recent culinary disappointments:
*First chicken breast had extreme potential, but right off the bat I made a rookie mistake and, lacking necessary patience, I didn't allow the chicken to thaw completely before thrusting it into the awaiting frying pan. Outcome -- a very aesthetically pleasing piece of meat, golden brown on the outside, while inside maintaining a very bright pink freezer burn -- FAILURE.
**Second chicken breast attempt. To concur the tenderness issue -- a marinade!!! So, a lovely tequila, lime and cilantro marinade was created with strict care to following the recipe. I allowed the chicken to swim joyously in this marinade overnight. Once time came to fry the chicken which was completely thawed and even at room temperature, I thrust into the pan again, which was a step in the right direction. Once again I had a beautiful, golden brown chicken breast... SUCcess??? Nope... first bite, salt, all I tasted was salt, compounded by the most intense tequila flavor I have ever tasted. Again FAILURE.
Taking a couple days off to regain some personal confidence and than I will be able to show my face in the kitchen again. Until then....
So why am I writing? Well, I feel the need to pontificate about a certain roadblock in my quest to become a domestic goddess. What is this mysterious roadblock? Well.... CHICKEN. I cannot cook chicken -- twice failed in the length of three days. Where have I gone wrong? I love to eat, no surprise and a moist and juicy chicken breast is simply divine. So, if anyone reads this, please provide any comments and perhaps tips regarding the best chicken breast you ever ate and perhaps how it was prepared. For anyone also learning to conquer this beast, let me quickly jot down my most recent culinary disappointments:
*First chicken breast had extreme potential, but right off the bat I made a rookie mistake and, lacking necessary patience, I didn't allow the chicken to thaw completely before thrusting it into the awaiting frying pan. Outcome -- a very aesthetically pleasing piece of meat, golden brown on the outside, while inside maintaining a very bright pink freezer burn -- FAILURE.
**Second chicken breast attempt. To concur the tenderness issue -- a marinade!!! So, a lovely tequila, lime and cilantro marinade was created with strict care to following the recipe. I allowed the chicken to swim joyously in this marinade overnight. Once time came to fry the chicken which was completely thawed and even at room temperature, I thrust into the pan again, which was a step in the right direction. Once again I had a beautiful, golden brown chicken breast... SUCcess??? Nope... first bite, salt, all I tasted was salt, compounded by the most intense tequila flavor I have ever tasted. Again FAILURE.
Taking a couple days off to regain some personal confidence and than I will be able to show my face in the kitchen again. Until then....
A Most Grateful Daughter!
I would like to say that I have always been enthusiastic to get down and dirty and work hard, however, if I am being truthful I would have to admit that growing up, hard work was the farthest thing from my mind. I wanted to spend every waking moment spinning my dreams and figuring out how I could make every one of them come true regardless of practicality. I simply wanted to have fun. Each and every day I knew my father was getting up early and making his way to work to support our family’s lifestyle. As a result, I only tended to see my father in the evening, as awakening from my slumber at a grave 5:00 am was simply unheard of and something I swore I would never have to do. I would be so special and such a stellar individual that mundane obligations like awakening for work were beyond the scope of any employers delegations; I WAS WRONG. My miscalculations were pretty frequent growing up and my father so kindly used patience and living by example to begin to teach me the most valuable lessons. Every day, when our paths collide, I am met with an optimism so unique and pervasive it can mend any emotional affliction that might have presented in me. It is this contented radiance that had forever intrigued my little mind as a youngster, simply wondering,”What makes him so happy.” Not a question easily answered but certainly something I intended to emulate. Over past few years, I have begun to understand that his sense of contention is coming from his attitude toward hard work.
My father has worked for a telecommunications company for the last 36 years. For the majority of those years he has worked as a Network Technician. Working everyday, rain or shine, outside amongst the elements; a job criteria a lot of people try very diligently to avoid. Growing up, he never graduated high school, getting his GED at a later date, which was the end of his formal education. Funniest thing though, he hasn’t appeared to have missed a beat as his awareness and ability to learn is uncanny. He lives everyday with the same passion and sincere appreciation for each and every moment, which I find so rare it is worth writing about. My father does not live this existence for any external appreciation or gratification, he just IS this way. I see how his appreciation for a day in a manhole or climbing telephone poles permeates his entire day and exponentially his entire life, and now, graciously, into mine. This philosophy of living life with an uncanny, optimistic outlook can span a lifetime of conflicts and concerns and a lesson I will be eternally grateful for.
Essentially I want to thank my father for teaching me the value of hard work and the most important life lesson I have ever learned which is that life and the pursuit of happiness, if I may, is all in the attitude. Most importantly this lesson was taught graciously by example. MRW seemed like a fitting place to begin to show appreciation for a lifetime of hard work and manual labor and of course doing what I can to live out the same doctrine as I have come to believe in its value just as much as my father does. Today is my father’s first day of retirement, and I will not find anyone more deserving of some time off than my father. I look forward to many crazy and slightly impractical projects together in hopes of learning a little bit more each and every day.
Dad, you are simply the greatest model of humanity for myself and I thank you and thank God everyday for having such an outstanding mold to model myself after. Mike Rowe, it must be said... you rank pretty high up there as well.
A most grateful daughter,
Krista
My father has worked for a telecommunications company for the last 36 years. For the majority of those years he has worked as a Network Technician. Working everyday, rain or shine, outside amongst the elements; a job criteria a lot of people try very diligently to avoid. Growing up, he never graduated high school, getting his GED at a later date, which was the end of his formal education. Funniest thing though, he hasn’t appeared to have missed a beat as his awareness and ability to learn is uncanny. He lives everyday with the same passion and sincere appreciation for each and every moment, which I find so rare it is worth writing about. My father does not live this existence for any external appreciation or gratification, he just IS this way. I see how his appreciation for a day in a manhole or climbing telephone poles permeates his entire day and exponentially his entire life, and now, graciously, into mine. This philosophy of living life with an uncanny, optimistic outlook can span a lifetime of conflicts and concerns and a lesson I will be eternally grateful for.
Essentially I want to thank my father for teaching me the value of hard work and the most important life lesson I have ever learned which is that life and the pursuit of happiness, if I may, is all in the attitude. Most importantly this lesson was taught graciously by example. MRW seemed like a fitting place to begin to show appreciation for a lifetime of hard work and manual labor and of course doing what I can to live out the same doctrine as I have come to believe in its value just as much as my father does. Today is my father’s first day of retirement, and I will not find anyone more deserving of some time off than my father. I look forward to many crazy and slightly impractical projects together in hopes of learning a little bit more each and every day.
Dad, you are simply the greatest model of humanity for myself and I thank you and thank God everyday for having such an outstanding mold to model myself after. Mike Rowe, it must be said... you rank pretty high up there as well.
A most grateful daughter,
Krista
Things I love
Just thought I would post a few things that I love and I am truly grateful for (no particular order):
* Fabulous nights with friends and family (days and nights really)
* Haagen Das Peppermint Bark (Seasonal) Ice Cream - truly exceptional, beware of the calories
* The sound slush makes when you jump into it -- corny, I know
* The sound my cycling shoes make when they click into the pedal -- Yes, I am a freak
* Crunchy leaves -- I am definitely an audible individual
* Inspiration -- people, places, food
* Wine - cheap to expensive and nearly every varietal of grape has impressed me at one time or another
* Traveling the world -- takes my breath away every time
* Winter - I always feel a certain way that transcends my ability to articulate
* Honesty -- No real need to explain
* Good food -- I can't be the only one, right?
* Inspiration -- It comes from everywhere and looks a little different every time
* Blankets - they are perfect and oh so very functional
* Beauty -- it is everywhere... and I love it
* Books -- I can't get enough... I want them all
* Powells -- definitely worth a mention
... There are plenty more things, but for tonight, that is my list.
* Fabulous nights with friends and family (days and nights really)
* Haagen Das Peppermint Bark (Seasonal) Ice Cream - truly exceptional, beware of the calories
* The sound slush makes when you jump into it -- corny, I know
* The sound my cycling shoes make when they click into the pedal -- Yes, I am a freak
* Crunchy leaves -- I am definitely an audible individual
* Inspiration -- people, places, food
* Wine - cheap to expensive and nearly every varietal of grape has impressed me at one time or another
* Traveling the world -- takes my breath away every time
* Winter - I always feel a certain way that transcends my ability to articulate
* Honesty -- No real need to explain
* Good food -- I can't be the only one, right?
* Inspiration -- It comes from everywhere and looks a little different every time
* Blankets - they are perfect and oh so very functional
* Beauty -- it is everywhere... and I love it
* Books -- I can't get enough... I want them all
* Powells -- definitely worth a mention
... There are plenty more things, but for tonight, that is my list.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)