Since this blog is geared to be a travel blog, I guess I should review the places I have been in 2008. As with last year, I'll likely miss a few places. One place I used to visit, has now become home, while home has become a chicken-with-no-head chase around the city to do a mountain of errands after a full day at work and still try and get home before too late.
So, here we go!
Toronto
Los Angeles/Anaheim
Singapore
Park Valley - a million times, except that I live here now. Did you know that it even has a GPS location? right where the store used to be, so many years ago.
Saskatoon - the wild goose chase. Kind of surreal that I occasionally long for the lonely country roads while sitting in rush hour traffic.
Moose Jaw
Regina
Brandon
Winnipeg (to transfer from a plane to a bus to Brandon. I was on the ground long enough to make it count)
Manitou Beach
Nesslin Lake
Morin Lake
Honolulu, Hawaii
This year's travels also added a couple new airports to my list of layovers. Ok... I guess just one, I was in LAX last year.
Saskatoon
Calgary
Edmonton
Vancouver
LAX
Singapore
Hong Kong
Toronto
Winnipeg
Minneapolis
Honolulu
2009 already promises a trip to Toronto and Panorama, and we're even hoping the BC Coast. Can't wait to see what the year holds.
Happy New Year everyone!!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 1, 2008
You might still be a city girl if...
1) You think your house should have curb appeal instead of road appeal.
2) Your first inclination is to walk to the neighbours. Not because you need the exercise, or want to save fuel, but so you don't have to find a parking spot.
3) You pace the produce aisle, longing for good fresh fruit and veggies, hoping you never forget what it really means.
4) You close your living room blinds at 6:30 in the morning, so that passing traffic doesn't see you doing your pilates. The cows might laugh at me!
5) You forget that you don't have cell service in most places in your house, and lose what precious bars you do have every time you touch your phone. For real. We only get minimal service at the far east side of our house. We literally have to lay with our heads on the head board under the window to get just 2 bars for any amount of time. For better luck, put it on speaker mode and DON'T touch it. 96% coverage in the province my behind.
2) Your first inclination is to walk to the neighbours. Not because you need the exercise, or want to save fuel, but so you don't have to find a parking spot.
3) You pace the produce aisle, longing for good fresh fruit and veggies, hoping you never forget what it really means.
4) You close your living room blinds at 6:30 in the morning, so that passing traffic doesn't see you doing your pilates. The cows might laugh at me!
5) You forget that you don't have cell service in most places in your house, and lose what precious bars you do have every time you touch your phone. For real. We only get minimal service at the far east side of our house. We literally have to lay with our heads on the head board under the window to get just 2 bars for any amount of time. For better luck, put it on speaker mode and DON'T touch it. 96% coverage in the province my behind.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Tales from the Farm
Strange Noises from Within
Yesterday, I decided to treat myself to a delicious chocolate chip banana muffin for my morning snack. As I’m closing the container, I hear “Auld Lang Sign” start to play. It’s soft, but sounds near, and quits before I can discover the source. I start to think it was like the time I thought someone was knocking at the door, but no one was there and I thought I was when it turned out to be a wood pecker, I think that Errol has left his phone in the house, or a neighbour has planted a signing toy, to try and drive me insane.
After trying the cell phone, and not hearing it ring at home, I search the kitchen, the suspected location of the music, and come up empty handed. Dejected, and thinking I really am going insane, I give up my search, and return to work. Puzzled and bewildered.
That night, just before supper, Errol was thumbing through our mail, and tossed some onto the table. Again, the mysterious "Auld Lang Sign" music starts up again. I had told him about it at dinner time, so when it happens again (and he hears it) we frantically looked around for the source. Again, it quits before we can find it.
Very mysterious. At least I don’t have to worry that I’m losing my grip on reality. Or at least, if I am , that there’s 2 of us, and we’ll lose it together. We’ll become that crazy, eccentric wilderness couple.
Hours later, we're sitting in the living room watching TV, and it happens again. Errol races for the kitchen, ears peeled for the source of the sound. This time he acutally finds it. Turns out, it was our clock/thermometer/calculator pen holder that is in the kitchen. The battery was dying, and as a means of signifying the end was near, it was singing that classic New Years song to us. Rather clever way to remind one to replace the battery, if you ask me.
Yesterday, I decided to treat myself to a delicious chocolate chip banana muffin for my morning snack. As I’m closing the container, I hear “Auld Lang Sign” start to play. It’s soft, but sounds near, and quits before I can discover the source. I start to think it was like the time I thought someone was knocking at the door, but no one was there and I thought I was when it turned out to be a wood pecker, I think that Errol has left his phone in the house, or a neighbour has planted a signing toy, to try and drive me insane.
After trying the cell phone, and not hearing it ring at home, I search the kitchen, the suspected location of the music, and come up empty handed. Dejected, and thinking I really am going insane, I give up my search, and return to work. Puzzled and bewildered.
That night, just before supper, Errol was thumbing through our mail, and tossed some onto the table. Again, the mysterious "Auld Lang Sign" music starts up again. I had told him about it at dinner time, so when it happens again (and he hears it) we frantically looked around for the source. Again, it quits before we can find it.
Very mysterious. At least I don’t have to worry that I’m losing my grip on reality. Or at least, if I am , that there’s 2 of us, and we’ll lose it together. We’ll become that crazy, eccentric wilderness couple.
Hours later, we're sitting in the living room watching TV, and it happens again. Errol races for the kitchen, ears peeled for the source of the sound. This time he acutally finds it. Turns out, it was our clock/thermometer/calculator pen holder that is in the kitchen. The battery was dying, and as a means of signifying the end was near, it was singing that classic New Years song to us. Rather clever way to remind one to replace the battery, if you ask me.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
What do you hunt?
I hunt flies. I stalk them in my house and swat them whenever I get a chance. There were times during the summer when 50+ flies would be buzzing between the screen and closed window in my office. Gross. A couple of times I got high after I tried to “Raid” them… so I tried to limit the number of times I used the Raid can.
I also hunt dust bunnies, and quickly deal with them before company comes over.
Errol; he hunts for real. Around the beginning of September, he started watching the hunting channel every chance he got. Between him and my brother, I have learned more about hunting in the last year than I ever thought possible.
Last night, Errol popped in “Where Legends Roam”, a video diary produced by “Big Buck Magazine”. I thought it was going to be just another hunting video so I kept myself busy with some housework. Then this delightfully soothing music came on, so I sidled into the living room. I quickly realized it was video that the magazine’s editor had captured over a number of years while on the hunt for the perfect pictures for his magazine. I had to sit down and watch it, it was so interesting. All sorts of shots of bulls, cows and fawns (mostly deer, though some moose and elk), captured during all seasons, over a number of years. I learned more about ungulates in those 79 minutes than I have all year.
Did you know that deer, elk and moose shed their antlers every year? I had no idea. Have you seen the size of the elk antlers hanging in my living room? They are almost as tall as me! Errol said they often find shed deer antlers in the field, and have even found them wrapped up in hay bales.
And did you know that the antlers are made entirely of bone and can grow up to 1 inch a day?
Deer antlers aren't too heavy, but a big elk or moose racks can weigh 30+lbs. Imagine walking around with 30 extra lbs on the top of your melon, and still stand up straight.
And that the antlers grow in pretty much the same pattern each year, getting bigger and bigger with each year? Who knew?
As you can tell, I’m totally floored by these new facts.
I also hunt dust bunnies, and quickly deal with them before company comes over.
Errol; he hunts for real. Around the beginning of September, he started watching the hunting channel every chance he got. Between him and my brother, I have learned more about hunting in the last year than I ever thought possible.
Last night, Errol popped in “Where Legends Roam”, a video diary produced by “Big Buck Magazine”. I thought it was going to be just another hunting video so I kept myself busy with some housework. Then this delightfully soothing music came on, so I sidled into the living room. I quickly realized it was video that the magazine’s editor had captured over a number of years while on the hunt for the perfect pictures for his magazine. I had to sit down and watch it, it was so interesting. All sorts of shots of bulls, cows and fawns (mostly deer, though some moose and elk), captured during all seasons, over a number of years. I learned more about ungulates in those 79 minutes than I have all year.
Did you know that deer, elk and moose shed their antlers every year? I had no idea. Have you seen the size of the elk antlers hanging in my living room? They are almost as tall as me! Errol said they often find shed deer antlers in the field, and have even found them wrapped up in hay bales.
And did you know that the antlers are made entirely of bone and can grow up to 1 inch a day?
Deer antlers aren't too heavy, but a big elk or moose racks can weigh 30+lbs. Imagine walking around with 30 extra lbs on the top of your melon, and still stand up straight.
And that the antlers grow in pretty much the same pattern each year, getting bigger and bigger with each year? Who knew?
As you can tell, I’m totally floored by these new facts.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Just another day in paradise
My northern prairie paradise. It's another gorgeous fall day at home. Oh yeah... I'm home, been since Tuesday. Thanks to some unseasonably warm October weather, I haven't had a tough time adjusting since returning from Hawaii.I had a wonderful visit with my friend and her husband. We did lots of driving, shopping, a little touristy stuff and some beach time. Not as much as I had wanted, on account of sunburning the bottom half of my legs. I was so diligent in applying and reapplying sunscreen to every part of my body, except that part of my legs, and therefore burned them. Thankfully not badly, so they quickly turned to a tan. But really. I should know better.
Highlights:
1 - 5 days of visiting. That was the best part of the trip.
2 - the scenery. I can definitely see why so many people go there for holidays and honeymoons. The water is incredible, the weather is perfect, and the beaches are great.
3 - Swap meet shopping. If you're going to Honolulu. Skip the expensive souvenirs at Waikiki, and head to the swap meet every Wed, Sat and Sun from 8-3 (unless there is a football game). Gifty stuff is like 50-75% cheaper there, and the people bargain, and are way more friendly.
4 - submarine tour. it was really neat. We went up to 110ft below the water, and saw all sorts of fish, turtles, barracudas and wreckage. Definitely worth it, though way more fun to go with someone else.
5 - The North Shore - home of Oahu surfers, pineapple fields (though not so much any more...) and Matsumoto Shave Ice. yum yum.
For the first time in a really, really long time. I got homesick. I'm glad to be home again.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Ocean View
Something I didn't think I had. I have a "garden view" room in Hawaii. Ok. I can live with that. Then, while killing a lot of my down time today, I realized that I do have an ocean view from here... 
If you look really hard through the windows, you'll see it. I think there is even a boat. I had to precariously balance on a rollie office chair to get this shot, so cherish it.
If you look really hard through the windows, you'll see it. I think there is even a boat. I had to precariously balance on a rollie office chair to get this shot, so cherish it.And now, a list of things I forgot.
- my iPod. How on earth will I ignore people on the flights home? Thankfully, the flights here, I was seated next to delightful people, who know the value of interesting, yet little conversation on a plane. Only had a half glass of white wine spilled on me by my neighbour. That was more funny than not. The little Swiss-Canadian lady got so excited to see her friend that her arms, and wine glass, went flying up, and all over me. I didn't have the heart to tell her that I was wet.
- sunscreen. It didn't cross my mind until my friends picked me up, and commented on how they had gone to the beach that day, and got burned that day. Errol even asked if I was going to come back with a tan. At this rate, I'll be glowing red by next week.
- enough books. I'm 1/3rd through my last book, and 7+ days away from leaving.
- my sarong. It's even a Hawaiian one.
Really. Where was my head?
Friday, September 19, 2008
Aloha
This is it. I leave for Honolulu tomorrow, for 10 days. Mostly for work, but I will get to visit a girlfriend and her husband who live there. I've been promising for years to go, and have finally committed. I'm not excited to leave home, but am excited to hang out with them in the warm Hawaiian sun.
Sadly, Errol cannot come with me. Mother nature didn't cooperate, and harvest isn't done. Hardly even started to be truthful. And then ambiguous Passport Canada sent his application back. Really people, you should be consistent. Ask for either all original proofs of existence and identity, or all copies. None of this confusing half and half deal. Really. At least they returned it quickly, and we didn't have to wait 2 months to get it back.
Bright side. Now I have more excuses to go back. I plan to spend the whole trip figuring out things that we can do next time. And we'll go in the winter, not when Saskatchewan's having a beautiful fall. Can you believe it was nearly 30C in Saskatoon yesterday?
Sadly, Errol cannot come with me. Mother nature didn't cooperate, and harvest isn't done. Hardly even started to be truthful. And then ambiguous Passport Canada sent his application back. Really people, you should be consistent. Ask for either all original proofs of existence and identity, or all copies. None of this confusing half and half deal. Really. At least they returned it quickly, and we didn't have to wait 2 months to get it back.
Bright side. Now I have more excuses to go back. I plan to spend the whole trip figuring out things that we can do next time. And we'll go in the winter, not when Saskatchewan's having a beautiful fall. Can you believe it was nearly 30C in Saskatoon yesterday?
Saturday, September 13, 2008
I think I Did it...
As you could see from the previous post, my inexperience in canning may have lead to the complete waste of something like 11 lbs of apples.
First, my apple butter was a little runny. I'm a great recipe ad-libber, and seem to have miscalculated how many apples I had, and how much sugar I should have added. Plus, the recipe I used was for peach butter, so I improvised. After the recommended hour cook time, I removed it from the heat (which you are apparently not supposed to do in canning) and it thickened up a little. Phew.
Then, because I have never canned before, and was bent on trying all by myself first, I didn't have any of the right tools to finish the job. Thankfully, my mother-in-law came over to help with another project, and made many suggestions and told me how she does things which was way simpler than my cookbook said. And then she brought over Errol's grandma's canning stuff, which I get to keep for the next time. Silly stubborn Ang.... should've just asked in the first place.
All said and done, I think I did alright. 5 of the 6 jars sealed. It is still a little runny (more apple sauce than apple butter consistency), but it tastes great, and my house smells all warm and fall-y.
First, my apple butter was a little runny. I'm a great recipe ad-libber, and seem to have miscalculated how many apples I had, and how much sugar I should have added. Plus, the recipe I used was for peach butter, so I improvised. After the recommended hour cook time, I removed it from the heat (which you are apparently not supposed to do in canning) and it thickened up a little. Phew.
Then, because I have never canned before, and was bent on trying all by myself first, I didn't have any of the right tools to finish the job. Thankfully, my mother-in-law came over to help with another project, and made many suggestions and told me how she does things which was way simpler than my cookbook said. And then she brought over Errol's grandma's canning stuff, which I get to keep for the next time. Silly stubborn Ang.... should've just asked in the first place.
All said and done, I think I did alright. 5 of the 6 jars sealed. It is still a little runny (more apple sauce than apple butter consistency), but it tastes great, and my house smells all warm and fall-y.
Feeling a bit domestic
It's fall. My next trip isn't for a week, so I'm hanging out on a Saturday in my kitchen. Being domestic.
Even before Errol and I were engaged, I thought it might be fun to learn how to can. Everyone here does it, so I figured I'd have lots of people to learn from. Since moving here, we (really it's me) have been the recipients of all sorts of berries and apples. And then I have to do something with them. Way too many to eat before they go bad so your options are freeze, can, or throw away. I'm too sensible to let them go to waste and I've been too busy (read scared) to start canning yet. So I've frozen what I could and left the rest as long as possible. Today is the only day I have left to dedicate hours to the 2 remaining bags of apples (thank you Motorcycle Mama!) before I leave for 10 days. Today is canning day. I mustered all the courage I could and tackled apple butter. 3 hours of peeling and coring, 20 mins of pre-cooking, 10 mins of blending, and 1 hour of real cooking, and things seem to be going well. It's boiling and spurting hot apply puree on me, but it smells heavenly. This was a good idea.
Wait. It is supposed to thicken after that hour of cooking. I have 15 mins to go, and my butter doesn't look thickened. What do I do? What do I do?
Even before Errol and I were engaged, I thought it might be fun to learn how to can. Everyone here does it, so I figured I'd have lots of people to learn from. Since moving here, we (really it's me) have been the recipients of all sorts of berries and apples. And then I have to do something with them. Way too many to eat before they go bad so your options are freeze, can, or throw away. I'm too sensible to let them go to waste and I've been too busy (read scared) to start canning yet. So I've frozen what I could and left the rest as long as possible. Today is the only day I have left to dedicate hours to the 2 remaining bags of apples (thank you Motorcycle Mama!) before I leave for 10 days. Today is canning day. I mustered all the courage I could and tackled apple butter. 3 hours of peeling and coring, 20 mins of pre-cooking, 10 mins of blending, and 1 hour of real cooking, and things seem to be going well. It's boiling and spurting hot apply puree on me, but it smells heavenly. This was a good idea.
Wait. It is supposed to thicken after that hour of cooking. I have 15 mins to go, and my butter doesn't look thickened. What do I do? What do I do?
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
There are wedding crashers, and then there are honeymoon crashers. Which are you?
As promised, the tale of the honeymoon crashers. I will preface this post with, though a surprise, it could have been worse. Our friends could have found us, and tormented us mercilessly for days. But no, these crashers were the more welcomeable kind and now it's a big joke between us all.
Sunday afternoon, we're walking around the quaint town, when we hear our names being called from a far. It was a couple from my church assembly, who happen to live 5 mins away. They had decided to come to the beach for the afternoon, being the weather was so great. So we visited with them a little, and went our separate ways.
Fast forward 2 days. We're sitting, have lunch by the beach. Errol spots this black Jetta with a red license plate, exclaims "oh, no" and ducks his head in just enough time to see my parents and the lady from Sunday, drive by. Well... Manitou is not a big place, so we ended up seeing them all again. Mom and dad had come there to go berry picking. They knew ahead of time that we were going there, but had made plans to come pick anyways.
Awkward. Really, whose parents crash their kids honeymoon? In all it wasn't that bad. But totally gives us license to tease them for a very, VERY long time.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Wedded Bliss
It's official. Errol and I married on July 19, in front of 200+ friends and family.
Despite the glitches, hangups, problems and rain, we were able to have it just the way we wanted it. It couldn't have been a more perfect day. It rained Friday afternoon, all night Friday, Saturday morning, to green things up, and managed to clear off in enough time to set everything up for the outdoor ceremony.
The sun even poked it's head out to heat everyone up!
My highlights of the day:
1) The valet parkers. Complete with white gloves, ties and rubber boots. Did I mention it rained so much before? The parking lot was veritable mud hole.
2) Seeing most of our family come out, even the ones that live far, far away.
3) Getting the Teen Girl Squad together once again. Like family, seems the only time we're all together is for weddings. I was too sad when one of our members had to leave before we could say hello.
4) Mudding after pictures. Bent my tiara a little when Errol went through a deeper than expected mud hole, and I went flying through the cab. Remember kids... always where your seatbelt when mudding.
5) The food and desserts and cakes. Everyone did a wonderful job. Kudos to the caterer for having never catered a BBQ before. They made a fine meal.
6) "You might be a redneck if your uncle marries your cousin". Tears streamed down my face, I was laughing so hard. For those of you who just stumble upon this blog... we were not related before, but do have some common, through marriage relations.
7) "Earl has to die". Again tears. This time down Errol's face when my dad retold the story of how he came to remember how to say Errol's name. For the longest time all he could think of was Earl from the Dixie Chicks song.
8) Getting to say hello to everyone when we cut the cake. We unexpectedly ended up cutting and serving it to everyone. I was thankful we did though, and had that chance to say hello to so many more people.
9) The wedding party. Everyone cleaned up so well, and a wonderful job helping get everything ready. And the kids were too cute, all day.
10) Lame as it may sound. The whole day was a highlight. I'm not a picky person, and had trouble making some of the decisions. But everything fell into place, and I can't thank those that helped out enough, for all the work they did. It was a community project, and everyone pitched in and "got 'er done"
Now... for some pictures. Our photographer, Guy, has posted a bunch of his formal pictures online. They are awesome. He's so good. Check them out!
And... apparently, it is going to take waaaay too long to get the picture attachment feature to pop up. so you will have to wait a little bit longer. This high speed satellite internet is great, until you ask it to attach pictures.
Next post... the tale of honeymoon crashers
Despite the glitches, hangups, problems and rain, we were able to have it just the way we wanted it. It couldn't have been a more perfect day. It rained Friday afternoon, all night Friday, Saturday morning, to green things up, and managed to clear off in enough time to set everything up for the outdoor ceremony.
The sun even poked it's head out to heat everyone up!
My highlights of the day:
1) The valet parkers. Complete with white gloves, ties and rubber boots. Did I mention it rained so much before? The parking lot was veritable mud hole.
2) Seeing most of our family come out, even the ones that live far, far away.
3) Getting the Teen Girl Squad together once again. Like family, seems the only time we're all together is for weddings. I was too sad when one of our members had to leave before we could say hello.
4) Mudding after pictures. Bent my tiara a little when Errol went through a deeper than expected mud hole, and I went flying through the cab. Remember kids... always where your seatbelt when mudding.
5) The food and desserts and cakes. Everyone did a wonderful job. Kudos to the caterer for having never catered a BBQ before. They made a fine meal.
6) "You might be a redneck if your uncle marries your cousin". Tears streamed down my face, I was laughing so hard. For those of you who just stumble upon this blog... we were not related before, but do have some common, through marriage relations.
7) "Earl has to die". Again tears. This time down Errol's face when my dad retold the story of how he came to remember how to say Errol's name. For the longest time all he could think of was Earl from the Dixie Chicks song.
8) Getting to say hello to everyone when we cut the cake. We unexpectedly ended up cutting and serving it to everyone. I was thankful we did though, and had that chance to say hello to so many more people.
9) The wedding party. Everyone cleaned up so well, and a wonderful job helping get everything ready. And the kids were too cute, all day.
10) Lame as it may sound. The whole day was a highlight. I'm not a picky person, and had trouble making some of the decisions. But everything fell into place, and I can't thank those that helped out enough, for all the work they did. It was a community project, and everyone pitched in and "got 'er done"
Now... for some pictures. Our photographer, Guy, has posted a bunch of his formal pictures online. They are awesome. He's so good. Check them out!
And... apparently, it is going to take waaaay too long to get the picture attachment feature to pop up. so you will have to wait a little bit longer. This high speed satellite internet is great, until you ask it to attach pictures.
Next post... the tale of honeymoon crashers
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Just Think...
I'm feeling a little nostalgic today. A year ago, Kelly and I were in Cambodia, biking around the Angkor Wat complex, in 35+C heat. It was one of the best days of our trip, and one I'll remember for the rest of my life. Just one picture to help you all remember too.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
On the Road Again
I feel like the Littlest Hobo today... "Down the road, is where I'll always be."
I'm in Vancouver right now, stop number 2, and the longest one yet. Killing time, waiting for that last flight home. I can't wait to get over with it, and have a nice hot shower.
The rest of Singapore was good. I'm already missing the heat and humidity, not looking forward to the snow and mucky mess that awaits me at home. But I will be glad to be home.
Last night we went for dinner (supper) at the Jade Palace. The food was wonderful, and the company excellent. Of the new and exciting things that I tried. Scallops, still attached to the shell (at least a new experience), and Peking Duck. Delicious! Watch for the pictures coming soon.
I also managed to squeeze a little Orchard Road shopping in before supper, even finding some cute shoes for the wedding.
I'm in Vancouver right now, stop number 2, and the longest one yet. Killing time, waiting for that last flight home. I can't wait to get over with it, and have a nice hot shower.
The rest of Singapore was good. I'm already missing the heat and humidity, not looking forward to the snow and mucky mess that awaits me at home. But I will be glad to be home.
Last night we went for dinner (supper) at the Jade Palace. The food was wonderful, and the company excellent. Of the new and exciting things that I tried. Scallops, still attached to the shell (at least a new experience), and Peking Duck. Delicious! Watch for the pictures coming soon.
I also managed to squeeze a little Orchard Road shopping in before supper, even finding some cute shoes for the wedding.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Not if I can help it
I hate looking like a tourist. Even though I am one, and my blonde head sticks out like a sore thumb in so many places. I would much rather appear confident when strutting around tourist traps, to avoid getting hoodwinked. I broke that internal rule twice tonight.
First, I went to Chinatown, bought souvenirs (not a big deal), except that I couldn't fit them in my bag. You see, one trick to not getting harassed by every stallholder, is to hide your purchases. oh well. Reasonably priced, Asian (Chinese) looking goods are better than the overpriced ones on Orchard Road that I can't afford.
Second, I bought fast food. Normally, I like to eat at hawker stalls, and on the street, because the food is 10 million times better. Tonight, in my haste to get to Chinatown before it got too late, I skipped supper. I wandered around a few stalls, but was so hungry, I couldn't decide. but I knew where to find easy-decision food. so here it is, 10pm, and I just finished BK. Not only did I have to walk 3 blocks with it, and all my Chinatown purchases. I then had to walk through my hotel carrying it, leaving that lingering smell.
2 more days of the show, 2 more evenings of fun, and then I'm back to Canada.
First, I went to Chinatown, bought souvenirs (not a big deal), except that I couldn't fit them in my bag. You see, one trick to not getting harassed by every stallholder, is to hide your purchases. oh well. Reasonably priced, Asian (Chinese) looking goods are better than the overpriced ones on Orchard Road that I can't afford.
Second, I bought fast food. Normally, I like to eat at hawker stalls, and on the street, because the food is 10 million times better. Tonight, in my haste to get to Chinatown before it got too late, I skipped supper. I wandered around a few stalls, but was so hungry, I couldn't decide. but I knew where to find easy-decision food. so here it is, 10pm, and I just finished BK. Not only did I have to walk 3 blocks with it, and all my Chinatown purchases. I then had to walk through my hotel carrying it, leaving that lingering smell.
2 more days of the show, 2 more evenings of fun, and then I'm back to Canada.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
If you guessed Singapore, you were right!
I'll have to post pictures of my first trip to Singapore in 2005, when I ate durian for the first time. Never again.
After 25+ hours of traveling, I have arrived in Singapore. Of course, it's shortly after 1am, Monday morning, and I am far from tired. I was doing so well to stay awake, adjusting as quick as I can to the time difference. but I caved, and had a 3 hours nap on the last leg. And now I'm paying for it.
For those in SK, you'll be happy to know it's a balmy 27C right now. I read on CBC and from Motorcycle Mama's comments that you have received more icky winter weather. Sorry to hear that. I would have gladly traded the weather for this trip. It was a struggle to get motivated to come this time. Oh well, it's only 6 days. 5 really, if you don't count Saturday when I fly out at 6am. Shortest Asian trip yet, but no less busy!
Let's see, what's on my agenda. Other than the tradeshow and meetings, lots of shopping. I'm hoping to do a little wedding dress/accessories shopping while here. Inject a little, subtle Asian flare to the wedding decorations. Asians love cowboys, so I might even find something that fits both worlds.
After 25+ hours of traveling, I have arrived in Singapore. Of course, it's shortly after 1am, Monday morning, and I am far from tired. I was doing so well to stay awake, adjusting as quick as I can to the time difference. but I caved, and had a 3 hours nap on the last leg. And now I'm paying for it.
For those in SK, you'll be happy to know it's a balmy 27C right now. I read on CBC and from Motorcycle Mama's comments that you have received more icky winter weather. Sorry to hear that. I would have gladly traded the weather for this trip. It was a struggle to get motivated to come this time. Oh well, it's only 6 days. 5 really, if you don't count Saturday when I fly out at 6am. Shortest Asian trip yet, but no less busy!
Let's see, what's on my agenda. Other than the tradeshow and meetings, lots of shopping. I'm hoping to do a little wedding dress/accessories shopping while here. Inject a little, subtle Asian flare to the wedding decorations. Asians love cowboys, so I might even find something that fits both worlds.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Where in the world is ang?
Well... right now, I'm in my living room. But only for a few more hours. Can you guess where I'm headed to next? Sadly, no, the answer is not Park Valley.
That's right! It's an oversized piece of smelly fruit. Not a good enough clue? Let's try again.
I've run out of pictures that won't give it away too quickly. But, if you need a little help, click here.
Stay tuned for more!
That's right! It's an oversized piece of smelly fruit. Not a good enough clue? Let's try again.
I've run out of pictures that won't give it away too quickly. But, if you need a little help, click here.Stay tuned for more!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
I Think His Tractor's Sexy
This is a copy of an email I sent to nearly everyone in my address book. I'm about to embark on the next great journey, marriage.
A wise man I know once said that one may have to travel half-way around the world to find their life's companion. Well... I've been half-way around the world a few times, and always came home having only found rich histories, friendly nationals and great food.
Turns out, what I was looking for was just a little north of Saskatoon. After months of phone calls, and a few attempts to spend time alone together, Errol V and I started dating. Now we're getting married!
This July, we'll make a commitment before God, our never-ending families and friends and begin our journey through life together. We're excited and looking forward to a summer filled with fun, sun and big changes, least of which is me adapting to life on the farm.
Ok, so that tractor is not the prettiest green one on the block, but it does the trick ;) Stayed tuned for tales from the North.
A wise man I know once said that one may have to travel half-way around the world to find their life's companion. Well... I've been half-way around the world a few times, and always came home having only found rich histories, friendly nationals and great food.
Turns out, what I was looking for was just a little north of Saskatoon. After months of phone calls, and a few attempts to spend time alone together, Errol V and I started dating. Now we're getting married!
This July, we'll make a commitment before God, our never-ending families and friends and begin our journey through life together. We're excited and looking forward to a summer filled with fun, sun and big changes, least of which is me adapting to life on the farm.
Ok, so that tractor is not the prettiest green one on the block, but it does the trick ;) Stayed tuned for tales from the North.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
SoCal and the Tale of the Hidden Postage Stamps
One of my greatest frustrations with traveling, is finding postage stamps. As a tourist or a business traveler, I can find nearly anything my heart desires, on any street corner, except easily accessible postage stamps. I have most important mail to mail, help me out here! An archaic, coin-op dispenser that the store clerk didn't know exists, does not help. Is it not reasonable to assume that if a store sells postcards, they should also sell stamps? Wouldn't C-stores, grocery stores and hotels be expected to carry them? Especially in high-tourist traffic areas? Like just outside Disneyland? I started looking on Wednesday, and it is now Sunday evening, and I leave tomorrow. I am hoping to find some at the airport. It's just not the same to mail a postcard from home. The foreign stamp is half the fun. Any suggestions on more logical places to find stamps.
So, I've been in Anaheim/LA for the last 5 days, and leave tomorrow. It's been a fun filled trip! Started off with a trip to Santa Monica and the beach. 
It was a little chilly, but nice to see the ocean again. Then the evening was a Ducks-Canucks game. We were hoping for a play-off game calibre, and were sorely disappointed with Canucks' performance.
It was a little chilly, but nice to see the ocean again. Then the evening was a Ducks-Canucks game. We were hoping for a play-off game calibre, and were sorely disappointed with Canucks' performance. 
Thursday, my boss and I went to Universal Studios after we set up the booth (10 mins to set up, 2 hours to get our badges. Gong show.) Universal was a great way to relax before the show. We went on all the rides, did the back-lot tour, and ate steak until I couldn't walk anymore. We saw them filming "Heroes" on the back lot and I think I saw Hayden Panettiere, but couldn't be sure because I don't watch the show. The tour was my favourite part.
Friday, Saturday and Sunday were the show. Nothing fun ever happens at them, though we did get a few crazies at the booth today. I am never quite sure where people get the ideas they get. One guy told us he was going to create a flat bread product, and tell the world to eat it, and everyone would, and would be healed of all of their illnesses. Right. To the crazies, I offer the following picture as a warning to leave the sane people of this world alone.
But, as with all of these trips, it becomes about the best after show meals that we search for. Friday night was the Crab Cooker in Newport Beach. We watched some surfers before eating some of the best seafood I've ever eaten. On paper plates, with plastic cutlery to boot. I think it made everything taste better.
Saturday night, we braved the brisk and cold wind, and at outside at Ralph Breannen's Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney. It was almost like being back in New Orleans, the atmosphere was so great. Live music, outside dining and great food. Tonight, we chosen pre-dinner drinks at the ESPN bar then Rainforest Cafe. Again, great decision. There were a couple of "thunderstorms" in the Rainforest, and the food and service was beyond excellent. If you can stand to wait an hour or more, totally recommend it. I need to start my exercise routine again.
In the end, I can't wait to get home. I have a mountain of work to attend to on Tuesday and Wednesday, then take off for the Easter weekend. A little farm action (it's calving time and I can't wait to see all the babies!) and a spiritually uplifting weekend are in store.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
2008, what travels do you hold?
It's been a while since I've gone anywhere, that required an update. Wait. I lied. I've been lots of places, but haven't taken the time to write about them. Ok, I lied again. I've been spending quite a bit of time in one place really. You see, this rambling traveler has found herself a boyfriend. A good-looking, cattle-farming cowboy one at that. Now, most of you that read this blog, know that already. For those of you that don't, if you look at my travel list, you'll find Park Valley (PV) listed on it; my cowboy lives there. This farming community northwest of Prince Albert SK, is a place I've visited since I was just a baby. I've always loved going to PV; it's surrounded by trees, a few rolling hills, quiet, hearty home cooking, family and always tremendous fun. Well... now I more reasons to love going there. So, if my stories in 2008 revolve around this magical place, you'll know why.
Take last weekend. I was one of 3 people in charge of planning our youth group activities for January. I managed to convince (or at the very least suggest to) the other planning partner(s) that we needed to go up to PV for winter fun because they have way more snow and open spaces than we have in the city. Though the Saskatoon group was small, a good group of youth from Big River and North Battleford joined us for a sleigh ride, dizzy bat* and good, ol' country hospitality. For your viewing pleasure, I have attached pictures and videos. It was a great day, and I think everyone had a good time.
Run!
Now, now boys, throw nicely.
Superman!
What does the rest of this year hold? Well. I'm in Toronto right now, for a couple of days. California in March, Singapore in April, hoping for the BC coast in June, PV as often as possible, and who knows what else. The year is young, and the miles to cover are many. Happy travels in 2008!
*Dizzy bat. Object was to spin around a certain number of times, then try and run towards something. For our purposes, number of spins was 25. Target was candy-filled pinatas. Tears streamed down my face.
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