Canyoneering Morning Glory / Ephedra's Grotto

I was in Moab for a day back in 2008 and with this trip, I wanted to be sure that I experienced something different, especially if I was taking a solo trip.  I signed up with Red River Adventures to canyoneering/hiking Morning Glory / Ephedra's Grotto, the thought of rappelling kinda scared me, I did indoor rock climbing once about five years ago, and the first climb and rappel were scary, but I got used to it by the end, I was hoping that little bit of experience would help me with this, since instead of climbing up a wall, you are going down it, a lot less work.   But, naturally, I still panicked.

The first rappel - 85 feet

We start the hike by going over petrified sand dunes to get to our first of the two rappels was.  The first was a 90 foot drop through a classic water carved chamber that was quite narrow towards the top before opening up at the bottom.  Our tour guide set up all the ropes and attached himself so he could belay us from above.  He went over how to 'brake' by the position of our hands and the rope and ideally how to go down smoothly.   Walking backwards over the cliff is slightly terrifying at first.  I didn't look down, just straight ahead at my feet against the wall.  I kept taking deep breaths while slowly moving the rope through my hands to slowly decent and next thing I knew, I was on the ground.  Hands shaking a bit, but I was so proud of myself and was really glad I signed up for this excursion.

We exit this area through a small slot and need to scramble through rocks to get to a more open area.  Here our guide went to set up for rappel number two and we had a moment to explore a grotto.

Second rappel, 120 feet mostly free hanging

The second rappel was next to Morning Glory Bridge (243 feet span) and was a 120 foot drop down, with about 20 feet at the top to walk down and the rest was a free hanging drop.  Our ropes were attached to a stone pile and a tree, not anchored into the wall like the first.  Going over the side, I slipped and dangled until I was able to readjust my feet against the wall.  This area was more open and having just did the first one, I was slightly more comfortable, but yet a little worried what the free hanging part was going to be like.  Within moments the wall slipped back and very slowly I maneuvered down.  Sadly, I didn't really take the time to enjoy the view behind me, which many say is pretty, but focused on the fear and adrenaline and my accomplishment of having done this.  Since I was the first one down, I played photographer for the rest of our group and helped them release their ropes when they got to the bottom.

The hike out was on the Negro Bills Trail, which was about 2 miles crossing over, several times, a small stream with cottonwoods and willow trees and next to sandstone cliffs. Our guide pointed out where the poison ivy was, rock formations, soils, erosion, and other interesting information along the way.

I am so glad I tried this.  Would I do it again?  Yeah, I would...but I would want to go indoor rock climbing prior to get 'ready' so I could enjoy the views more next time around.

one night stand

On Tuesday I met a friend for drink before dinner.  It was a more upscale establishment and I was there for about an hour before she showed up, that is at least two glasses of wine.  The friend gets there, but I end up chatting with the bartender for a bit, it lead to an exchange of business cards and a few flirty texts during dinner.

Fast forward to Friday, I met up with two guy friends for drinks after work.  It was a late night, and I debated meeting up with the bartender afterwards, going home with one of those guys, or going home alone.  As usual, I missed my train home by seconds, leading to an hour of waiting...and texting.  Do I go home or do I meet up with a stranger? 

Having a one night stand has been on my bucket list for a while, but I've always been too nervous to do it because I didn't want to be murdered.  I am sure the odds of that are slim...but it is something I've feared.  And I am not going to lie, I asked him if he planned to kill me, yup, I am that weird girl.

So, I waste an hour texting him, fighting the desire to try something new.  I get on the train and we depart.  Then...I did something shocking, I got off at 125th street and took a cab to his apartment.  I wasn't drunk anymore.

It was about 2 am, I knew at this point that the next train home wasn't until 5:30ish AM.  So, I'd have to hang out there until I can get back home.

He was a little more 'regular' than I remember him looking; no beer goggles this time around.  We kiss, we kiss a little more, then we head into the bedroom.  He claimed not to have a condom; it was do I do it anyway or do I piss him off and end up walking around Harlem from 2 - 5 am...so I went along with it...why not?  With all the guys I've been with rarely did I use a condom.  The insecurities that I talked about the other day...I didn't have them.  This was someone that I knew I wouldn't see again...and I didn't care if it was good or bad or what he was thinking.  I have to say, I enjoyed it more than I thought I would...not because it was good, but because I didn't care.  

Then we go to sleep.  Even though I asked before I went over if he snored and said no...he did.  I barely got a wink of sleep.  I forgot how horrible it is to sleep with someone snoring.  At 4:45 I got dressed, peed and woke him up to tell him I was leaving.  I asked if he'd go outside and get a cab with me because I wasn't sure if his neighborhood was safe, but he said I'd be fine.  I spent a ton of money the night before, so I also asked for $5 since I didn't have enough for a cab ride.

And that was that.  A one night stand.  Completed. Check.

And I survived.  It was so different to not have a date first, get to know a guy, think about if I liked the guy, maintaining conversation, or think about a future...it was just sex.  It wasn't as horrible as I thought....and maybe I'll try to find another stranger but not just for one night, maybe for a few month fling. It would be nice to have sex with someone that I am not attached to from previous experiences.

Tepee Sleeping

Sleep in a tepee? How can I resist?

Yellowstone Under Canvas, right outside of Yellowstone National Park is where I couldn't resist staying.  To stay in a tepee was cheaper than a hotel, and not only was I trying to conserve money, but I was looking for a new and fun experience.  The accommodations come in a variety of sizes and bathing options including tipis for up to four guests and safari tents with beds.

I just got the regular tepee, it had three cots (all of which had 3 sleeping bags and a pillow on it), a chair, a table, a lantern and bear spray.

Unfortunately my friend didn't get in until the next day, so I stayed alone.  At first I was a little nervous.  As much as I love the outdoors, I am also a scardy cat when it comes to bugs...and bears.  I wasn't counting on being nervous of bears.  It was also a bit chilly.

I didn't sleep too well because I am not used to falling asleep on my back, confined to a bag/cot and thinking about bears.

But it was fun and I am glad I got to try it. I would definitely do it again if I had a man (or a friend) with me...someone with more experience in outdoorsy stuff.

See an Opera

For the last few years, seeing an Opera has been on my bucket list.  Considering I live in the NY Metro area, this was a very easy and feasable activity to cross off, but it took me a long time because anytime I asked someone if they'd like to go, I kept getting a no.  The opera doesn't seem to be the best place to go alone - do they still dress up nice?  They have several intermissions, etc.  So I kept putting it off.

Last year, I sent my friend my bucket list so she could be inspired.  She saw the opera on there and was willing to see one withe me.  But (there are always buts), she didn't know if she wanted to spend all that money on something she didn't know if she would like.

As it turns out, the MET broadcasts about 10 opera's per season live on the big screen.  Even better, they show an encore performance for each performance.  For $23 I was able to purchase a ticket in the director's hall (movie theater with assigned leather seats) to watch an opera...and only 10 minutes away.  By having showings of the opera at a movie theater, I could go by myself, I've never had a problem seeing a movie alone.  However, my friend Diane did join me.


Upon arrival, the screen shows people filling the auditorium  making it seem like you are there - and I looked many people were not in gowns.  What is so wonderful about seeing an opera at the movie theater is they zoom in, so you can see the expressions of the singer's faces.  They have it subtitled at the bottom, so you can read what they are saying since it is in a different language.  And during the three intermissions, they also provided some behind the scenes fun facts or interviews of the singers.

The date that worked best for us was the showing of Zandonai's Francesca da Rimini.  It is an Italian opera about a lady, Francesca who is set to be married to a man named Giovanni.  Of course Francesca is dreading this and is fearful.  Giovanni's brother Paola stops by to finalize marriage arrangements and it was love at first sight.  The almost 4 hour opera tells the story of the doomed lovers.    

I have to say I enjoyed the opera.  It took a little while to adjust to the high pitched sopranos and all the clinging, but you get used to it.  I was worried that it being 4 hours would be too long - my butt would hurt, I'd get hungry, I'd have to pee...but since there were three intermissions I managed just fine, and actually didn't need all that free time.

I am planning to attend another one or two during the next season - they showed previews of what is coming and some looked really good.

Here is the link to the Met's Live in HD.

balloon animals

When I went out shopping a few weeks ago I saw this balloon making kit, and immediately thought of my littlest nephew.  I am not sure why, maybe because we had so much fun with the paper airplane kit I bought him last Christmas.  Anyway, this year, I am not buying all the nieces and nephews Christmas presents - but I picked this up for him anyway.

Turns out this past week, the poor kiddo had a high fever for several days, and came down to visit.  Just like any parent, aunts want to do whatever is in our power to help them feel better, so I brought out the balloon animal kit.

He was so excited.  It took us a while to figure out the mechanics of the balloon.  Our second balloon we attempted to make a giraffe.  Even with the proportions a little out of whack, I think we were successful   The Third balloon we popped while twisting it.  The fourth one we turned into a dog.

not bad for my first time:

After that it was bedtime, but I really looked forward to making more the next day.  When I got back home, he runs over and tells me he broke the pump.  I crazy glued it back together, but it didn't work properly.  We were both upset.  So I went to amazon and bought two air pumps (I won't let mine break!), 250 balloons and a balloon book.  We can't wait for it to arrive so we can make more animals and swords.

I might turn this into a little hobby, making balloon animals at family parties or in a park for strangers. :)

The Girl Who Walked on Fire

I heard about this fire walking event which I wanted to do because it was on my bucket list...but it was about two hours away, and it was something 'scary' so I didn't want to go alone with all those other strangers.  September's Guy #3 said he'd go with me making it an interesting second date.

When we got there, the wooden structure was already assembled. But we were able to participate in every step after that.  First we used newspaper and stuffed crumbled pieces into the empty areas.  Then we all took turns putting oil on the paper and wood then we took newspaper torches and lit it on fire.

We had to wait two hours for the wood to burn down.  During this time we wrote our intentions card.  One side was symbolic of things we were going to walk towards [happiness, love/desire, no stress, husband/children] and the other side was symbolic of things I was walking away from [SI, insecurities, depression].  Then we put our cards into the fire and watched them burn.

Our fire walking instructor then had us walk across about 25 feet of first shells, then those brown things from trees and gravel. 

Next was stepping on Legos - which I rocked at - and a sheet of something that was sharper than nails/staples.  That part on only lasted on for a few seconds.

Then came walking 25 feet on glass. 

Finally, once all the adrenaline was running - it was time to walk on 1,000 - 2,000 degree fire for 25 feet.

  

So...did it hurt?  A little.  You definitely feel some heat.  The people talking pictures of me didn't really get me...so I did it a second time.  That picture also unsuccessful.  So...I tried one last time...with a super blurry picture and a dark video (thank goodness for our instructor who took awesome pictures!).  I walked 75 feet total on hot coals.

Once I was back in the car I started to feel tingling (normal once the adrenaline wears down) and realized I had 4 blisters.  Not too bad considering.

Another check off my bucket list.

Aerial Adventure

 My sister told me about this rope course that she did last year and I knew I wanted to do it, even if it meant I had to camp the night before - it would be worth it!

For $45 you get about 2 hours 15 minutes in the course.  But because so many people start at about the same time, realistically we were only able to do 2-3 courses.   Since there was a long line to do the first course (orange), I went up a level and tried the 'easy' green course first. 

The locking in on the guide line was very secure, putting me more at easy with this whole concept of challenging myself at new heights and activities where I could get very hurt.  With the lack of nerves and ready to go I completed many of the elements in a decent time.

There were so many different obsticles - anything from moving platforms, tightrope, rope bridge, ziplining, ladders, pathway with huge gaps, things with little room to hold for balance, etc. 

After completing the first course, I couldn't wait to try another one...and with that rush of completing the first one I wanted to try the medium level one (blue).  Some of the elements were the the similar to the 'easy' one but more challenging in either height, larger gaps or not as stable.  I was very proud of myself...well, except for one ladder on the second course where I started having a panic attack...I realized my fear isn't heights, it is ladders. Crazy.

This was a ton of fun. I feel like the last few months have been quite 'adventurous' for me and I've loved it all.

If I go back - there are still 4 more courses I didn't get to which would be nice that it wouldn't be repeatative.

For more information:  Jiminy Peak Aerial Adventure
 There are currently 6 individual, elevated courses with over 70 elements.  From easy to hard -->  Orange, Yellow, Green, 2 Blue, and Black.

Zippadie do da

Last weekend I tried Ziplining...you know, in case I ever go on the Amazing Race, I need to have this skill.  No, in all seriousness, I purchased a LivingSocial deal in October thinking it would be fun, and since it is on my list of things to do if I ever go to Costa Rica, I wanted to know what I was getting myself in to.

So the place was in Hyde Park, and is very much a beginner course.  There were I think 8 lines.  The group was small (ours was 6, but the max is 8) and two staff.  The staff were wonderful, for first timers, they did ALL the work, they attached us to the line, caught us, removed the thing from the line, attached us to our holding spots...everything except the ride.

I was much happier that our group was all newbies, so we all respected the time it took to build up courage that first time when we left the platform.

We also had 2 Tarzan ropes to get down to the ground with...that was a bit scarier than the zipling.

Two of the platforms we reached by climbing up a firetruck ladder, so we weren't really too high up (ie - if we fell, we probably would have survived in 98% of the course)

Little by little, after each segment, we all started to relax and enjoy ourselves a little more.  On the 7th ride I went off the ledge backwards, and from 6-8 I used one hand to steer myself.  I don't think I every let go completely, I should have...but it just gives me a reason to go back.

The Big Easy

Hey Readers.  Were you wondering what happened to me?  On Friday I headed down to New Orleans for work.  I packed so light for this short trip.  I had one casual outfit (jeans and a black top) and two outfits for work. I got all this in a really small over the shoulder carry on that is actually smaller than my purse/bag.  I made sure to get there early so I had a few hours to myself before I had to work.  I stayed at the Marriott New Orleans on Canal which was a great location.

The only thing I did to prepare for this quick trip was to do a walking tour of the French Quarter that I found online from Frommers.  The afternoon started nice but turned to a thunderstorm with times of down pouring.  Knowing that it would be scattered thunderstorms, I did pack an umbrella, but left it in my room since I ran out of there so quickly to enjoy the city.  I continued on my self-guided tour but stopped for lunch when I was drenched.  The tour took most of the same route that the trolley tours do. 

The first thing I ate was a chocolate croissant from Croissant D'Or which was tasty.  When I stopped for lunch, I went to the Old Coffee Pot.  The atmosphere was nice but the service was unbelievably slow.  Since it was raining quite hard, I couldn't eat in courtyard.  I ordered Seafood Gumbo to warm up and went with a classic Catfish Po-Boy.  The Gumbo was so delicious with a hint of spice.  The po-boy was interesting, it was the first time I had catfish, which was surprisingly light and not 'fishy'.  The sandwich itself was really hard to eat - it was way to fat with the fried fish pieces and the lettuce and the big bread.  I put on some 'Lousiana Hot Sauce' and took a bite or two but it was just too difficult for my small mouth so I ended up just eating the catfish with a fork and knife. 

 After lunch I continued the tour and walked to the French Market.  On the way back towards the hotel, I stopped at Cafe du Monde for some beignets.  These fried dough creations were good - but honestly, I have had the Italian pizza-fritta/zeppole so I am glad I indulged but I wasn't 'shocked' with it.

Leaving the Cafe du Monde, I ran into one of my clients and we looked at the riverfront and then went to Bourbon Street to walk around and listen to some music for the next 90 minutes before we had to get ready for dinner.

Dinner we had as a group at Crescent City Steaks on North Broad Street.  Honestly the steak was not amazing, but it could be that I don't eat a lot of steak these days.  This was the first time I saw all my clients since the last meeting, and they all loved my hair.

Saturday I was with my clients all day.  The hotel restaurant had a nice breakfast buffet.  There I tried a blintz for the first time.  Dinner we went to Clancy's which was about 18 minutes from the hotel.  This small restaurant was cozy and had a decent Creole menu.  I ordered the stuffed shrimp and the half order of lobster and mushroom risotto.  I don't have pictures since I was with my clients - but the stuffed shrimp were AWESOME.  The risotto was also quite delicious.  Everyone else's food looked really good.  After dinner, I walked around Bourbon Street with a client and his son to see the nightlife.  The Bourbon Street nightlife was quite different than during the afternoon.  I can't imagine Mardi Grais, this was enough for me!

 

Sunday I woke up early, put my casual outfit back, checked out and left my small bag with the bellhop to take the trolley to the Garden District.  Unfortunately I did not realize that there were more than one trolley, and so I took the Canal Street trolley to Cemetery.  On this ride, I got a call from Delta that my flight was cancelled and rescheduled for Monday.  The driver of the trolley was nice and while we were waiting to turn around, he gave me a transfer for an additional $0.25 and told me about BBQ shrimp.  Once we got back downtown, I took the St. Charles trolley to the Garden District and did another Frommer's walking tour.  I absolutely loved this area and the houses.  After the tour I took the trolley further north to see the colleges and whatever else was up there. 



BBQ Shrimp at Desire



 I was famished having only had a whole wheat cranberry scone and no beverages all day, so I stopped at Desire for that BBQ shirmp (jumbo shrimp sautéed in garlic, rosemary & lemons in a rich worcestershire sauce, with garlic bread) the trolley driver talked about.  This was my favorite food I had while I was in New Orleans



After the morning I headed back to the hotel and got another room for the night and took an hour break.  I took the free ferry to Algiers and then just walked around the outer paths in both directions of the ferry terminal.  I wish I stopped to ask the concierge what there was to do on that side of the river...but since I wasn't really planning on having all this extra free time, I was unprepared. 



I was quite exhausted from my day but decided I couldn't leave New Orleans without having a drink on Bourbon Street.  I have never been to a bar by myself so I was a bit nervous about this, but it had to be done.  It was only about 6pm so I walked along the road until I found one that I liked the music so I went in for a 2 for 1 deal.  I got 2 Miller Lite's for $5.75.  I sat at a table and listed to this kid - it wasn't what I thought from outside...he was just killing time until the band got there, but it was a bit entertaining.  He sang a few songs but really talked to us.  He had a thing for me, kept picking on "New York" and dedicated a few songs to me.  He wanted me to participate in his show by giving me a lap dance but I said I wasn't comfortable with that, I was only on beer #2.  When his gig was over he came over and asked me to go to his next bar when he did the same thing (I didn't).  When the band finally started playing I enjoyed their laid back style, but it wasn't enough to keep me there after I was done with my second beer so I headed out. 

I then stopped at --- and had another 2 Miller Lite's this time my bill was $6.50.  Unfortunately I was only at this bar for 3 songs before the band was done, but they were really good for the three songs I heard.  I poured my fourth beer in a plastic cup and hit Bourbon Street.  I next stopped at the Cat's Meow for some Karaoke which was surprisingly good then headed out to another bar, Fat Catz, that I really enjoyed.  They played a bit of Elton John, Billy Joel, Journey, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeplin, etc.  I finally finished that fourth beer and decided I needed some food from drinking four beers in 2 hours.

So I wound up in La Bayou and had some corn & crab chowder and I tried blackened shrimp with fried green tomatoes and grits.  Both items were really good.   I really wanted to go to the Howl at the Moon since I had a great time there in Chicago - and they weren't open when I first got there.  While there was no cover charge - there was a drink minimum and I felt I didn't want anymore...so I just left and went to the Hotel at 10:30 to hit the sac for my early flight in the morning.  I would have stayed out later if there was someone else there.

Lesson learned:  don't pack so frugally.  I don't know why I didn't use a regular wheeled carry on, but really it was 2 1/2 days.  I am impressed that I was able to pack so light, but I ended up wearing my casual outfit THREE LONG days with the flight cancellation.  I can't imagine if the clothes smelt - I tried to air them out and put lotion on...but still. 

New Orleans was a lot of fun and I would love to go back and enjoy the music but with my beau.

Savannah in a nutshell

My last installment of my Savannah trip.

What is Savannah all about?  When I first told people I was going down there they said I'd love it because of the quaintness.  Sure, it is old and historic, but honestly, it was different than I expected.  What is fabulous is that the downtown is all walkable. In fact, I highly suggest to anyone that visits to leave the car in the parking lot and start walking around.   Walk walk walk!   So, while I wasn't super impressed with Savannah, it is worth a short visit.

So, what is there to see?  There are quite a bit of antique shops and galleries.  There are a bunch of little local shops that are worth a quick walk around (especially if it is rainy).

The Colonial Park Cemetery is worth a walk through.  Many of the 'residents' of the cemetery had the yellow fever.  Also, during one of the wars, soldiers opened some of the caskets so they can sleep when it is warm.

 The planned city originally had 24 parks - 22 remain now.  Many of these 'squares' have a statue or fountain and of course benches and flowers.  Since there are so many in a small area, they generally are not crowded.  It is wonderful to have them when walking the city for a place to sit for a while.  The picture below is where Forrest Gump's park bench was in the movie - the bench is now in a museum - and was never a part of the park.

 In the largest of the parks, [Forsyth Park] is a large fountain and is one of the most photographed places in Savannah.  Near this park is the Mercer House, where the book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" had a scene of a murder.   I haven't read the book (but will by next month) and I didn't take the tour. 

Spanish moss oak trees are all over.  They are spooky trees, especially in the cemetery...but they are more or less all over the city. 

The quaintness is evident on many of the side streets of the beauty of the buildings.  So many have these great staircases and outer decor (iron or wood), large windows, etc.  Some sidewalks are brick - but many are not. 

St. John the Baptist cathedral was beautiful.  I have to be honest, I am not a super religious person.  I stopped at a few of the old churches and saw a synagogue.  St. John's was established before the 18th century. 

 River street is a short area near the water that has a few shops and restaurants as well as a river front walking area with benches.  The Savannah river is narrow, however it must be deep since many large barges carrying containers travel down the river. The open area, when I was there, was used for a street fair. 

Food.  Such great food options.  I posted the other day about the new foods I tried.  Generally the restaurants seemed reasonably priced (although I am sure most areas outside of NYC tend to be more reasonable).  However, when I am with clients, we tend to go to nice restaurants (ones I wouldn't go to alone since they are pricier).  Unfortunately I can not remember the names of two of them at this moment, but the last one we went to was Elizabeth on 37th.  The mansion was beautiful and the food was amazing.  I had the seasonal soup for the appetizer - it was shrimp and squash soup.  For my entree I had Coastal Grouper Celeste (which I thought was delicious) and for dessert I tried the pecan pie with almond slivers.  The other food my clients ate looked amazing and delicious.

Tours.  There are TONS of tours.  Haunted tours, walking tours, trolley tours, house tours,  river tours, etc.  I did the one hearse tour which was about one hour in length. It was not spooky or anything.  I would have liked to do a walking tour, but there wasn't too much time. 

My overall experience was not amazing.  Maybe I like more 'action'...although I don't like nightlife.  I just felt like aside from the tours/home tours there was not a lot to do.  I walked the city quickly and then went back to take a nap...while it was still light out.  I felt like it didn't hold my interest as long as I would have liked it to.  I didn't get to see Tybee Island (that might have been nice) and I didn't see the non-historic area of Savannah.  I think my parents will like it (they will be checking it out soon) maybe I am too young to appreciate it?  I travel enough to know how to keep myself busy, but this was hard for the 3 days I was there.

A Haunting Experience (Savannah, GA)

I was recently in Savannah Georgia for work.  We rented the whole Kehoe House for our meeting/sleeping rooms.  The Kehoe house is rumored to be haunted, as much of the historic district of Savannah is said to be. 

The Kehoe House is a grand queen Anne style building that was a private house for William Kehoe, his wife and their 10 children and later became a funeral parlor, Joe Namath purchased it and then a bed and breakfast.  The Kehoe house is a four star B&B.  I am not sure what they use to base the star ratings on, but let me tell you what I thought of the place.

The house was old and grand.  The walls on the main floor are about 14 feet.  The wall colors and moldings fit the style of house.  The sleeping rooms were spacious.  Each bedroom has their own bathroom and some have a private or shared balcony.  The staircase was grand.  They have an elevator which you can access any of the floors.  They have a loft which we used as meeting space.

My room was the Caroline Finch room.  The room had a king size bed, chaise, and a separate place for the toilet/shower sink.  A chandelier hung from the ceiling, a fireplace (which was closed) and an older armorer.

You pick out your breakfast the day before with quite a selection foods.  The apple pecan pancakes were delicious.  But choices ranged from cereal, pancakes, french toast, eggs/omelet and of course you get two sides which included either sausage, bacon, grits (regular or cheese), yogurt, or fresh fruit.  Breakfast is served between 7:30am and 10am. At 4pm the house offers tea and dessert.  From 5-7pm the house puts out red and white wine, cheese, grapes, crackers and a spread and they keep the dessert which was usually some sort of cake.  This was perfect to meet up for a drink before heading out to dinner.  The bedroom turn down service also set out 2 cookies on your bed and had music on for when you came home.

All very wonderful things so far.  My one problem with the house was the dirtiness of it.  From afar it looks clean, but there was grime and dust.  I believe the hole in my ceiling in the bathroom for the sprinkler was covered in black mold.  I was sneezing like crazy in the three days I was there.  I wasn't sure if it was just me, but my clients felt the same way.  One complained to the concierge about the layer of dust on the light and nightstand.  One needed help opening the window to the balcony and there was a massive amount of dust/dirt there.  Sure, I understand dust...but as a 'hotel' type of establishment, the rooms/entry ways should be cleaned on a regular basis. A good cleaning.  The crevasses, the walls, the floors, the fixtures. 

So, lets talking about the hauntings.  It is rumored that two twin boys of William Kehoe died in a fireplace and stayed in the house to be near their mother after they died.  Some say that they here children running, others have claimed to have heard the kids asking to play with them.  Can you believe what others say? Do they really see/hear it or do they want to believe it?

One client of mine didn't know about the history.  She told us at breakfast that she was awoken in the middle of the night by a text message and her dream after that was very strange...she dreamt that these boys were playing in the house and walking through the walls. She said it was so strange it was so real and not dream like, but of course it was a dream.

That night, we went on a hearse tour that brought you past some of the 'haunted houses'. It was not scary by any means, just informative about the history and why it is 'haunted'.  The driver told us to summons the ghosts, to hopefully get pictures with them in it (or dots or whatever it is).  At one point I call out to them to show themselves and snap a few pictures. Of course I was doubtful it would work (none of my pictures showed anything abnormal).  That night we got back late and I hopped into bed. I woke at 3am and had a very difficult time sleeping.  My mind starts to wander, like it usually does and I think about the ghosts and the tour and then of course about the twins that haunt our B&B.  At 4am I started falling into a sleep in which I was asking the kids if they wanted to play cards and eat cookies.  At 4:05am all of a sudden I get the worse chills.  I start convulsing and shaking.  I felt so cold and my mouth felt a little paralyzed.  In my mind I told the kids that they had to go away - that I couldn't play, I needed sleep (b/c I had to meet my clients at 7:30) and that my tongue felt numb.  The shaking stopped. And then by 4:08 I was so hot.  It was strange.  I didn't sleep after that, I tried, but I couldn't.  I tried to make sense of what happened.  It couldn't have been ghosts. I believe but I don't.  Was it my mind that imagined that is what it would feel like if a ghost passes through you or near you? But if so, how would I have known?  Was my mind playing tricks on me?  Did I have a fever for 10 minutes? Did I have a seizure?  Needless to say I slept with the light on the next night.

My top five pictures

A few blog friends have done this and I also wanted to take the "challenge", which is to post my favorite 5 pictures and then tell you 5 things about myself.

Tent Rocks, New Mexico 2007

I went to New Mexico for a work trip and took a few extra days off to do my own thing. After a lot of research, I found a few places I wanted to go. Kasha-Katuwe was not a very common place online - in fact, my ENT told me he went there and he highly recommended it. I am so glad I went there. The trip was important for me since it was my first time doing things for me and learning about me, as an adult. At Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument I exerted myself physically and it felt amazing. The hiking to the top was a challenge and I was so proud of myself making it.

Beijing China, March 2005

At our hotel we had this amazing garden. It was breathtakingly beautiful with the architecture, water and bridges. I woke up early one morning before our class event to take a peak. I was a traditional New Yorker minding my own business taking in the beauty and thinking how lucky I was that I was able to experience that, until the relentless Chinese kept asking me to dress up. I kept saying no, but then I thought - why not? When would I ever get to do something like this? I couldn't convert the currency in my head and have no idea how expensive this was...especially because they changed my outfit half way through. But I am so glad I did it, something so different.

Death Valley CA, February 2007

I needed to get away for a little bit after SI and I broke up.  I was a walking zombie so I took a trip out west to explore Death Valley and the Grand Canyon.  I was amazed by the natural beauty of Death Valley. It was so remote, so desolate.  I really thought about things and asked SI to come out there and marry me in Vegas.  Of course he did not.  But the trip helped me.  I am not sure how exactly since I didn't find peace, I didn't marry him, nor did I get over him.  But it afforded me a great place to cry in peace and helped me learn how to travel alone.  Every time I see this picture I am reminded that the world is huge and I have only seen a teeny part of it.  There is so much out there and I know that when I need to think and time to myself, I know that I can find solace in going away and exploring new areas.

Shooting Range, Long Island NY, July 4, 2005

SI and four of his friends took me to the shooting range.  I LOVED it.  What an experience.  I shot so many different kinds of guns, including an AK47, a few other rifles, a hand gun, a revolver, and this HUGE heavy gangster like gun.  It was exhilarating being out there and shooting the target.  I hit my target quite a few times at the farthest distance.  I kept the target and a few shells and put in in my scrapbook (which I gave up custody of when I moved out).  I was proud of myself for doing so well even though I knew I would since I assumed I would go into law enforcement at some point in time.  

 

Hamptons NY,  Summer 2006

I have three wonderful sisters and four almost sisters.  These extension of my family was the family that lived next store.  Our family is older, but we all get along so well.  One day at the beach, we decided to have a little fun and attempted a pyramid.  It was such a fantastic day. I am so grateful that I have so many ladies that I can talk to about anything. The parents are awesome too.  I can't believe I have known them for nineteen years. It has been amazing watching all of us grow.

5 Things About ME:

1. I gave up drinking for 6 years after I went out on a Friday, kissed three guys at a bar thinking it was the same guy (it wasn’t)...and was still hung over on Monday and called in sick to work. (2001 - 2007)

2. I have a huge fear of bugs, I can not kill them, so I cover them up with cups and wait around for someone to come over to flush them.

3. I have wanted to get laser eye surgery since HS when one of my teachers had it done, and when my vision finally evened out, and after I saved up for it...I found out I wasn't eligible. :( contacts & glasses for life woo-whoo. Hopefully technology will keep advancing so I may still have hope.

4. I have NEVER smoked a cigarette or have done any drugs.

5. I hate sneezes & snot.

My attempt at golf

I had the opportunity to play golf with two of my brother-in-laws and my uncle. I was surprised that the guys seemed to take such good care and pride in the golf course. I don't know what men are generally like at home, some might be slobs, others could be neat freaks; I assumed my brother-in-laws were some place in between. But on the golf course they were different men. They made sure they fixed all their divots and raked the sand if their ball landed in the sand pit.

The game of golf was fun. Three years ago I took a golf course at the local high school one night a week for eight weeks. After that I went to the driving range and didn't do well, so I didn't bother to ever play a round of golf before. Since we were on vacation, I decided to give it a try. The weather this day was pouring but then turned cloudy but HOT. The local place was not busy at all, so there was plenty of time for me to try to hit enough times with out holding many other people up, as I was generally double the par. I had a few really good swings, but most of my balls just went a few yards at a time. My final score was a 146 (although the guys told me that they generally issue a hole total no more than 2x par - but I went with my official score, which sometimes was as high as an 11!).

We rented a golf cart to make the time between holes go faster, but if you golf like me, you end up walking most of the course anyway (although, not with a full golf bag - so that helped!!). This was also my first time driving a golf cart. It was an exhausting 6 1/2 hours (yes, that is right, a LONG day because I slowed them down a lot)!

First Time

Today’s blog post is inspired by the Life House song title, however while the post itself isn’t about me falling in love for what feels like the first time (hopefully that will come within the next 9 years, 2 months and 8 days), I thought it might be fun to write about my life first times - as they have helped mold me into who I am today.

First Kiss – I think I was 16. I was hanging out with this ‘bad boy’ who wore a leather trench coat. His name was George and I believe he was 2 years older than me. He kissed me outside of the school. He reeked of smoke and his tongue just went around in circles over and over again. It was actually quite gross. We never really went ‘out’ or on a date; I moved on and became a kissing whore.

First Surgery – I was 5 years old and had to have my tonsils out. I really don’t remember too much of this. I had a stuffed Snoopy; he went into the operating room with me. Of course I was a little scared. I remember I asked them if I could keep my underwear on, they said yes. Snoopy got a paper mask to put on his face, and I was gassed to sleep. Needless to say my throat was sore/hurt for a while, so I was able to eat lots of ice pops.

First Job – I won’t consider babysitting a job since it was off the books. My first job was a video store clerk. I posted about this here. I loved this job. Too bad videos/DVD stores are almost obsolete due to Netflix, OnDemand, etc. Great job for high school students.

First Concert – My first concert was when I visited my older sister in college probably around 1994 – that would have made me 14 or 15. It was a band I never heard of at the time Live. Sure they started popping up more afterwards and I enjoyed their music throughout high school.

First Real Purchase as an Adult – I think this was a loveseat pullout couch. I ended up living in the basement of my grandmother’s house for 4 years. I inherited a bed from my sister’s father-in-law (it was brand new) and needed a couch for my small space. I went to JC Penny with my mom and bought this adorable purple pull out loveseat (twin size) and paid for it myself – it was probably around $800. I loved that couch. My little sister has it now, it is practically brand new since I ended up using that space for a desk and the couch sat in storage for 4 years!

First Car – My parents bought me a cute white car when I was 16 or 17 so I was able to babysit, and get to work at the video store. Both of my parents were commuters. They moved us, when I was ten, an hour north where there was more land and you got more house for your money. It was a wonderful place to grow up - but my parents had to leave early in the AM to get to work, and got home way after we were home from school. It was helpful I had a car to drive me and my little sister to school and other things since they couldn't do it. I want to say it was a ___. This car lasted about a month and it just died. So my next car was a faded shade of red Pontiac Grand Am.

First Date – Hmm, I am trying to think about this one still. Hopefully I'll remember and get back to you...but that probably isn't likely.

First House – Hmm, I am not sure if this is the first house I grew up in or the first house I lived in with a boy. I'll go with the latter since it is more 'exciting'. SI decided instead of getting married, we'd buy a house. We spent lots of weekends house hunting and loved so many we saw but were constantly being out-bid. We finally ended up with this one, one that I found from the listings the realtor sent over and thought it was better than most other ones in the neighborhood. While my name was not on the house (NJ law does state however, that once you marry, it is 1/2 yours anyway) I did help. While we had been living together in my tiny basement apartment for the past 3 years, it wasn't ours, it was mine. This was great since it was brand new to both of us, and we were able to make it a home. Unfortunately, I only lived here for almost 10 months.

First MY Own Place - About two years after the above, I decided I needed to do something more permanent, clearly working things out with SI was going too slow and all those promises never became actualities. I couldn't live with my parents forever. I needed to decide what to do. Rashly one day I decided to buy an apartment (April 2008). I am not a firm believer in renting - so I looked at about 15 places and decided on an apt in this building. While I loved it at first site, there was another one that was calling my name but the parking was horrible. This place gave me a parking spot, was within walking distance to 2 of my sister's, walking distance to the train, had attic storage space...it seemed like a no-brainer. Issues in the apt soon became apparent, but when I walk in, I still LOVE it. It is small but it is MINE. I got to pick out all the furnishings by myself. I got to pick the wall color and the placement of the couch/TV. I was able to pick what silverware I liked. I splurged and bought a king sized bed that I get to myself. It is mine. My first place.

First Crush - I was in Kindergarten. What did I know then? I ran around the playground chasing this kid Johnny asking him to kiss me. Glad that didn't work out, as an adult he is SO not my type!

First Time Away From Home – Not counting sleep-overs, the first time I was away from home was when I went to college, September 1997. I went to Monmouth University and shared a HUGE room with two other girls. The room was originally the floor lounge, but was converted to a room when the enrollment grew - I was so lucky and didn't even realize it. (the building pictured is the same building Annie was filmed in!) I was so homesick. I didn’t think I would be as bad as I was but it was a huge adjustment. I transferred out after 1 ½ years – not because I was homesick, no, that was cured by the end of the year, but because I changed my major and the school didn’t have it there. So I moved in with my sister, her husband & their newborn baby for a while and commuted into NYC from there.

First 'I Love You" - My first I Love You was with SI. We went to this restaurant called sweetwater, and he told me over dinner. I was so excited, I really liked his guy and I was glad he said it. It was probably 4 months into our relationship (but mind you it was an accelerated 4 months, after a month he was living with me M - F). I wasn't ready that night to say it back, I knew I felt it, but I couldn't say it. A few days later I kept rehearsing it. I felt it, I did, but the words couldn't come out when I tried. I had these word magnets, and I wrote it out, called him over and showed him and tried so hard to say it...and I did :) SI was also the first person to make me realize how completely in love you could be with someone. It wasn't just an I love you - he was also much more.

My First Time doing "It" - In high school I liked this kid Kevin, we saw each other on occasion and made out a lot. I was too prude to do anything substantial. We went off to college but kept in touch. One day I convinced my roommate to go to his school with me for a visit. We got so incredibly drunk and I did "IT" on the floor with Kevin while my roommate and his brother where sleeping in the bed in the same room. I was so uncomfortable. I had him keep stopping because it didn't feel right or I thought I had to poop. After that, we barely spoke again for a long time, but managed to keep in touch until I met SI. I didn't do "IT" again for quite some time. I've tried to find him recently, but it hasn't gotten me anywhere.

My First Heartbreak - As much as it hurt that Kevin & I didn't make it, my breakup with cop#1 was my first real devastation. I cried so much. Everything I saw reminded me of him. It was the worst feeling ever. Things were going so well, and I was truly shocked that he called me on his way back home (after spending the night at my place) and broke up with me. Claimed we were in different places. After a few months we were reunited and our relationship, while not 'official' lasted another 2 years and more...all while he found a new girlfriend whom he moved in with, and eventually married & had children with. Believe it or not, we still keep in touch and I still think he is 'hot'. Having had my relationship with SI, I can tell you that Cop#1 was a much more physical relationship...the kind that you can barely keep your hands off of. The kind of hot & steamy sex you see in the movies.

First Time on an Airplane - Growing up, our family vacations were ones we could drive to, since there were 6 of us, it cost too much to fly. The first time I went on an airplane I went to San Diego California. My sister's job sent her there for a meeting so I flew by myself (she left a day before) and found the hotel all by myself, a huge accomplishment for me at the time - since I was only around 18. I was skinny back then, I remember thinking my butt lifted off the seat a little during take off. It was the strangest feeling, but I loved it.

First Time Public Speaking - Aside from school presentations and me being a loud-mouth at family functions, and being a tour guide at Monmouth, my first time speaking in public was in 2007. My company went on a lunch cruise around Manhattan celebrating our 25 year anniversary. The cruise needed someone to give a welcome speech, and I was elected. I had microphone in hand and spoke to the 150 so people on the boat. At the end of this month, I will be giving my first professional presentation.

First Time Out of the Country - Believe it or not, the first time I left the country was in 2003 when I went to China with my class from my MBA. I was so excited about getting my first passport and I dreamt about all the stamps that would be in there. My class went to Beijing and Hong Kong, and a group of us went to Macau for a few hours. It was truly and incredible experience and I would love to go back.

First Death of Someone Close - I was too young to remember my grandfather's passing. I went to wakes of my great aunts and uncles but it didn't bother me then. When my grandmother died, I was overwhelmed with heartache. Before her passing she fell and broke her hips and needed someone with her at all times. I went over a a few times a week to help her (mostly overnights) and then she eventually went into assisted living. I don't remember why she went back into the hospital, but it was for something routine. But she ended up dying of a blood clot in her leg. I remember being shocked and wretched with guilt because I did not go to the hospital the day before to visit. I was too wound up in my own life.

This was a great exercise in remembering. I challenge all of you to do the same! If I left out a major 'first' tell me and I'll be sure to add it!