1) Stay hydrated
2) Eat real food
3) bring our own pillow
4) travel with someone you love
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Self-update in progress...please be patient
I feel like this year I have been a self-update in progress. It's been a long year. With incredible highs in devastating lows. There have been points where I questioned my career decision and thought I may never teach again. Times where I didn't think anyone cared and yesterday when I felt like all the pieces finally fell into place. But as it's an update, I guess there are still a few loose strings trying to figure it out. So I guess I'll get back to you.
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Women's Clothing Rant
So I don't normally like to rant online, but this just made me feel so bad about myself today I feel like I must share.
My whole life I have been the tall thin girl with the skinny legs, I've never had to worry about dieting or exercising all that much I was just genetically blessed. While I am by no means "fat" I am at the heaviest I have ever been and I'm not feeling very good about myself.
Today as I had nothing better to do and I have WAY to much clothing, I decided to give some things away...this was a mistake. 1) you should never try on clothing when you aren't feeling good about yourself 2) women's sizing sucks balls. yes I said it. It is royally fucked up and it made me feel even worse about my body. Here's why...
I am 5'10" and 150 lbs. Which makes me the exact healthy weight for my height, I shouldn't way much more than this, but I am healthy where I am. When people look at me they guess that I am a size 4. Boy are they wrong.
I tried on all of my pants in all different sizes ranging from 6-10. None of the 8 would even button and the 10s all felt extremely tight, awkward and uncomfortable. But I put on the 6 (white house black market) jeans and they fit great, not too tight, not too loose they made me feel pretty, and they were the smallest size, yet everything else that was SUPPOSEDLY BIGGER made me feel like and over stuffed sausage bursting out of its casing.
Shirts were even worse, Smalls fitting great in things I picked up at target or old navy, while Larges and even Extra Larges from more highend shops had me bursting out at the seams.
The average size in America is 14, but is that a 14 at WH/BM: Where a 6 fits me ideally or at Gap: where I cannot button an 8 or mountain hardware or columbia where not even a 10 fit-- and excuse me but most of my athletic friends have an ass, hips and thunder thighs, and your clothing certainly didn't allow for mine--which isn't much at all.
12-14 is an extra large at most stores, but it is the average American woman. How am I supposed to NOT have body issues?
I felt horrible about myself tonight, so I went and worked out for an hour, before settling into bed, and working out isn't bad, but having clothing companies make me feel so bad about myself it's the only thing I can think to do is.
My whole life I have been the tall thin girl with the skinny legs, I've never had to worry about dieting or exercising all that much I was just genetically blessed. While I am by no means "fat" I am at the heaviest I have ever been and I'm not feeling very good about myself.
Today as I had nothing better to do and I have WAY to much clothing, I decided to give some things away...this was a mistake. 1) you should never try on clothing when you aren't feeling good about yourself 2) women's sizing sucks balls. yes I said it. It is royally fucked up and it made me feel even worse about my body. Here's why...
I am 5'10" and 150 lbs. Which makes me the exact healthy weight for my height, I shouldn't way much more than this, but I am healthy where I am. When people look at me they guess that I am a size 4. Boy are they wrong.
I tried on all of my pants in all different sizes ranging from 6-10. None of the 8 would even button and the 10s all felt extremely tight, awkward and uncomfortable. But I put on the 6 (white house black market) jeans and they fit great, not too tight, not too loose they made me feel pretty, and they were the smallest size, yet everything else that was SUPPOSEDLY BIGGER made me feel like and over stuffed sausage bursting out of its casing.
Shirts were even worse, Smalls fitting great in things I picked up at target or old navy, while Larges and even Extra Larges from more highend shops had me bursting out at the seams.
The average size in America is 14, but is that a 14 at WH/BM: Where a 6 fits me ideally or at Gap: where I cannot button an 8 or mountain hardware or columbia where not even a 10 fit-- and excuse me but most of my athletic friends have an ass, hips and thunder thighs, and your clothing certainly didn't allow for mine--which isn't much at all.
12-14 is an extra large at most stores, but it is the average American woman. How am I supposed to NOT have body issues?
I felt horrible about myself tonight, so I went and worked out for an hour, before settling into bed, and working out isn't bad, but having clothing companies make me feel so bad about myself it's the only thing I can think to do is.
Random Update
So I've been back over a week now and I am realizing how much I love living in Minnesota. It isn't Syracuse and I'm not sure if that's good or bad. I really loved it there (I know I'm weird but yes I do bleed Orange). I had a solid group of friends who are saw regularly, loving family that I never got sick of seeing, a city that I felt entirely comfortable in and a job that I really truly loved. While I have some of those things here, I am also missing others. As some of the friends I did make here in MN are now moving away or taking different steps in their lives, I find myself missing NY from time to time. But as I came home after weeks away, it felt good to come back here. It is familiar and what I was longing for while I was away.
J Surprised me last weekend with tickets to Orchestra Hall for A Night in the Tropics. The music was up beat and I was dancing in my seat. I love going to the orchestra, as the only stringed instrument I play is the piano (yes it is a stringed instrument). People who are so skilled at traditional stringed instruments amaze me as I have tried many times to learn and always always fail.
We also went Mini Golfing at Putt'er There a lovely little 18 hole course on which I beat J...by 1 stroke. Needless to say he wasn't happy about it...I don't normally win. But we will have to go to another course when he is home in a few weeks and try again. When going to Putt'er There, my suggestion is to park on the street before the large entrance to the como zoo, as once inside the gate parking is difficult. You can follow the paved path back past the park to the mini golf course. It doesn't look like they could have fit 18 holes into the small space, but that have. It is also one of the most (if not THE MOST) affordable courses to play at in the city..at only $6 per person for all 18 holes or $3 for 9. It's a great deal for the kids on a day off in the summer too.
J Surprised me last weekend with tickets to Orchestra Hall for A Night in the Tropics. The music was up beat and I was dancing in my seat. I love going to the orchestra, as the only stringed instrument I play is the piano (yes it is a stringed instrument). People who are so skilled at traditional stringed instruments amaze me as I have tried many times to learn and always always fail.
We also went Mini Golfing at Putt'er There a lovely little 18 hole course on which I beat J...by 1 stroke. Needless to say he wasn't happy about it...I don't normally win. But we will have to go to another course when he is home in a few weeks and try again. When going to Putt'er There, my suggestion is to park on the street before the large entrance to the como zoo, as once inside the gate parking is difficult. You can follow the paved path back past the park to the mini golf course. It doesn't look like they could have fit 18 holes into the small space, but that have. It is also one of the most (if not THE MOST) affordable courses to play at in the city..at only $6 per person for all 18 holes or $3 for 9. It's a great deal for the kids on a day off in the summer too.
Pittsburgh food and beer
If you know me you know I am a foodie and beer lover--I love on eat street in the heart of the NE brewery district it is truly heaven on earth, but when on vacation I like to find local non-chains to sink my teeth and tastebuds into. Pitt has been a hit and miss city so far.
Sienna Mercado
Beer: Fathead bumbleberry 4.25 / 5
Food: Meatball panini -- beef with provolone and spinach pesto sauce
Way mor sauce than 1 sandwich would merit, could do with a third and adjust prices accordingly
Staff: wonderful. Not too in your face, but conversational, increased
Value-- good, plenty of food and an ample beer list
Rating: 4.5/5
Sinful Sweets
Food: ice cream was wonderful, but the cupcake lacked flavor and when you get a smores cupcake I expect chocolate richness, real marshmallow and gram and I got a weak chocolate cupcake, no gram and zero marshmallows TOTAL FAILURE. I cannot recommend this as much as I love the name.
In addition many of he candies were out of stock, and the jars were mostly empty
Staff: understaffed, unable to meet needs in a timely manner, people ended up leaving while waiting.
Value; poor ice cream was the only high quality product everything else was disappointing
Rating: 1/5
The Church works brewery
Beer: S'mores 4.5/5
Food: pulled pork BBQ sandwich, A more tangy BBQ than I am used to. It was good but serving sizes are large. 3.5/5
Staff: not enough. Ours took forever as she was responsible for too big of a section, she was fine and as attentive as she could be she just had too much to do. 2/5
Value: 4/5
Rating: 3.5/5
The Red Ring: Duquense Campus
Beer: Stacy's Mom. 3.5/5
Food: Buffalo dip sandwich with coleslaw 3.5/5 It's college kid food. The sandwhich was overstuffed, which I am sure all the college kids appreciate, but I would have needed another loaf of bread to get everything that fell out.
Sienna Mercado
Beer: Fathead bumbleberry 4.25 / 5
Food: Meatball panini -- beef with provolone and spinach pesto sauce
Way mor sauce than 1 sandwich would merit, could do with a third and adjust prices accordingly
Staff: wonderful. Not too in your face, but conversational, increased
Value-- good, plenty of food and an ample beer list
Rating: 4.5/5
Sinful Sweets
Food: ice cream was wonderful, but the cupcake lacked flavor and when you get a smores cupcake I expect chocolate richness, real marshmallow and gram and I got a weak chocolate cupcake, no gram and zero marshmallows TOTAL FAILURE. I cannot recommend this as much as I love the name.
In addition many of he candies were out of stock, and the jars were mostly empty
Staff: understaffed, unable to meet needs in a timely manner, people ended up leaving while waiting.
Value; poor ice cream was the only high quality product everything else was disappointing
Rating: 1/5
The Church works brewery
Beer: S'mores 4.5/5
Food: pulled pork BBQ sandwich, A more tangy BBQ than I am used to. It was good but serving sizes are large. 3.5/5
Staff: not enough. Ours took forever as she was responsible for too big of a section, she was fine and as attentive as she could be she just had too much to do. 2/5
Value: 4/5
Rating: 3.5/5
The Red Ring: Duquense Campus
Beer: Stacy's Mom. 3.5/5
Food: Buffalo dip sandwich with coleslaw 3.5/5 It's college kid food. The sandwhich was overstuffed, which I am sure all the college kids appreciate, but I would have needed another loaf of bread to get everything that fell out.
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
A380 to Paris
Dinner on the a380 a modern twist on a traditional steak and 3 veg. Steak perfect mid rare so perfect it melted like butter. The minted pea purée was something I don't get to enjoy often and they were perfect, as was the buttered carrot. The potato was lacking compared to the rest of the meal. A good smashed red potato would have been twice a good and half as difficult. The amuse as the start of the meal was duck with mandarins and was a perfect bite. Though I wish it was my whole meal. The apps were a bit disjointed. The salmon seemed out of place with the foie gras, both good just different and not belonging on the same plate. Simple salad and bread were no different than any non-descript restaurant.
I don't know why I am surprised that the French macaron on an airfrance flight would be anything short of perfect but I was and it was perfect
The seats are a bit stiff in fact the leg rests are a lot stiff compared to KLM but the head rest adjusts so that's good. Supposedly there is a back massager, but either the one in my seat didn't work or it sucked, either way I didn't feel it. The last note is that my feet and head bit didn't move entirely independently, meaning that sometimes when I would raise my head my feet would shorten, as someone who likes to sleep stretched out at a slight incline, this was a problem for me that my seat did not have on the KLM flights.
I did get a good night sleep all things considered it was more like 3 short naps in between very loud and bright announcements about turbulence and putting on a seat belt or seeking a doctor for a medical issue on board. Additionally it was very hot at night and cooled down in the morning and up by 4am for breakfast means I will be sleeping in the lounge today. Should have done like J and slept through breakfast. Fruit had strawberries so that was out, coffee was bitter, and the entree was cold. Best thing about breakfast and standard nondescript glass of OJ
I don't know why I am surprised that the French macaron on an airfrance flight would be anything short of perfect but I was and it was perfect
The seats are a bit stiff in fact the leg rests are a lot stiff compared to KLM but the head rest adjusts so that's good. Supposedly there is a back massager, but either the one in my seat didn't work or it sucked, either way I didn't feel it. The last note is that my feet and head bit didn't move entirely independently, meaning that sometimes when I would raise my head my feet would shorten, as someone who likes to sleep stretched out at a slight incline, this was a problem for me that my seat did not have on the KLM flights.
I did get a good night sleep all things considered it was more like 3 short naps in between very loud and bright announcements about turbulence and putting on a seat belt or seeking a doctor for a medical issue on board. Additionally it was very hot at night and cooled down in the morning and up by 4am for breakfast means I will be sleeping in the lounge today. Should have done like J and slept through breakfast. Fruit had strawberries so that was out, coffee was bitter, and the entree was cold. Best thing about breakfast and standard nondescript glass of OJ
Monday, July 11, 2016
African Pride by Marriot Review July 10th, 2016
African Pride by Marriott 4/5 stars
I will start with the only con and the move on to the rest of the wonderment of this hotel.
The beds are hard as a rock--and I like a firm bed, but these are nuts. It's like sleeping on concrete. I tossed and turned all night looking for a comfortable position and couldn't find one. Since a comfortable bed is key point at a hotel I almost docked it 2 stars instead of just the 1.
Now on to the positives. The lady who checked us in- Fifi went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable. Champagne upon arrival, tour of the hotel, had the bags brought up, walked us directly to our restaurant (moyo) for dinner, very friendly and socially appropriate. If the rest of the staff is as good as her, they are truly blessed.
The room itself is large, again only a curtain to separate the main bathroom space from the bedroom, and a door to the toilet and rain shower. The toilet shower room had green "mood" lighting. The main bath space had a separate tub and sink space.
In the bedroom space there is a table with 2 chairs and plenty of outlet spaces and dresser, whose top section is a coffee station. The wall opposite the beds holds the entertainment center, mini bar (massive waste of money) wall safe--behind the painting of a wall safe behind a painting
A closet holds an extra pillow, 2 bathrobes for use at the hotel and slippers to keep, Js didn't fit him, so I kept them both.
The library bar at the hotel is a great place to grab a drink and play billiards. J and I enjoyed cocktails that would be $10 in the states were $5 here. We sucked at pool but had fun playing.
Breakfast at March restaurant at the hotel was good but $15pp in SA seems a bit of stretch. It was tasty, very large buffet, with plenty of fruit, honey still in the comb (a true treat for me), lots of meats, chaffing dishes of eggs, French toast, bacon, sausages, and veggies. They also had cereal a variety of pastries and fruit juices. A few tea and coffee selections also available.
Photos and links will be included by July 16 when I have access to a full computer
I will start with the only con and the move on to the rest of the wonderment of this hotel.
The beds are hard as a rock--and I like a firm bed, but these are nuts. It's like sleeping on concrete. I tossed and turned all night looking for a comfortable position and couldn't find one. Since a comfortable bed is key point at a hotel I almost docked it 2 stars instead of just the 1.
Now on to the positives. The lady who checked us in- Fifi went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable. Champagne upon arrival, tour of the hotel, had the bags brought up, walked us directly to our restaurant (moyo) for dinner, very friendly and socially appropriate. If the rest of the staff is as good as her, they are truly blessed.
The room itself is large, again only a curtain to separate the main bathroom space from the bedroom, and a door to the toilet and rain shower. The toilet shower room had green "mood" lighting. The main bath space had a separate tub and sink space.
In the bedroom space there is a table with 2 chairs and plenty of outlet spaces and dresser, whose top section is a coffee station. The wall opposite the beds holds the entertainment center, mini bar (massive waste of money) wall safe--behind the painting of a wall safe behind a painting
A closet holds an extra pillow, 2 bathrobes for use at the hotel and slippers to keep, Js didn't fit him, so I kept them both.
The library bar at the hotel is a great place to grab a drink and play billiards. J and I enjoyed cocktails that would be $10 in the states were $5 here. We sucked at pool but had fun playing.
Breakfast at March restaurant at the hotel was good but $15pp in SA seems a bit of stretch. It was tasty, very large buffet, with plenty of fruit, honey still in the comb (a true treat for me), lots of meats, chaffing dishes of eggs, French toast, bacon, sausages, and veggies. They also had cereal a variety of pastries and fruit juices. A few tea and coffee selections also available.
Photos and links will be included by July 16 when I have access to a full computer
Driving back to Johannesburg
Starting the drive back to Joburg-- following Andres directions instead of gps has led us to the wonderful discovery of Dullstroom on the R540. It also had better quality roads and less tolls to wins all around, but now to tell you about Dullstroom.
It certainly is a tourist stopping point, there are men to point you in the direction of parking and they will watch your car for a small R5 fee upon exiting--though J and I still took our valuables with us. We walked along the road to Anvil Ale brewing.
Anvil Ale has free beer samples and a small menu of food for lunch, which was just what we were looking for to keep J from being hangry. Of the beers sampled the west coast IPA was by far the best. They manage a great IPA flavor and just a kiss of bitter without slamming you in the face with the double and triple hopped madness of brewers like surly. Their blonde ale was also very smooth. Anvil has been open since 2009, but their brewmaster has been brewing for over 30 years.
J and I both got ham, cheese and tomato sandwich melts, I had a mocha and J had a full size of the IPA. Total bill R150 with tip.
We thought about getting pie at the Rose but as that would be difficult to eat while driving, we opted for Udderlyfabulous milkshakes. They have a very large selection of over 20 favors ranging in price from R30-40. I got a crunchy which uses my favorite candy bar the crunchy which is honeycomb candy in chocolate, and J had a coffee shake with whipped cream. For R65 we left Dullstroom full and happy. If traveling this direction I highly recommend making this stop.
From Dullstroom it was a quick few minutes to Belfast and then back on to the N4 which is a toll road, but by taking the path we did, we payed 1 less toll than we did on the way out to Kruger.
*photos and links will be uploaded on July 15th.
It certainly is a tourist stopping point, there are men to point you in the direction of parking and they will watch your car for a small R5 fee upon exiting--though J and I still took our valuables with us. We walked along the road to Anvil Ale brewing.
Anvil Ale has free beer samples and a small menu of food for lunch, which was just what we were looking for to keep J from being hangry. Of the beers sampled the west coast IPA was by far the best. They manage a great IPA flavor and just a kiss of bitter without slamming you in the face with the double and triple hopped madness of brewers like surly. Their blonde ale was also very smooth. Anvil has been open since 2009, but their brewmaster has been brewing for over 30 years.
J and I both got ham, cheese and tomato sandwich melts, I had a mocha and J had a full size of the IPA. Total bill R150 with tip.
We thought about getting pie at the Rose but as that would be difficult to eat while driving, we opted for Udderlyfabulous milkshakes. They have a very large selection of over 20 favors ranging in price from R30-40. I got a crunchy which uses my favorite candy bar the crunchy which is honeycomb candy in chocolate, and J had a coffee shake with whipped cream. For R65 we left Dullstroom full and happy. If traveling this direction I highly recommend making this stop.
From Dullstroom it was a quick few minutes to Belfast and then back on to the N4 which is a toll road, but by taking the path we did, we payed 1 less toll than we did on the way out to Kruger.
*photos and links will be uploaded on July 15th.
Moholoholo Ya Mati review
Moholoho Ya Mati is a beautiful river camp on the Blyde River. A very pricey looking luxury camp at that (include link) but on the recommendation of Andre they have the best value food in the area--we agree and ate there twice as a result for lunch our last 2 days In the bush.
About a 20 km drive from our camp it took about a 25 minutes to get there on the sometimes rocky roads. You know you've arrived as they typically barren landscape is now lush and green, thanks to watering provided by the river. The tea garden and riverside cafe are in the back of the camp, signs will direct you down single lane roads. Both our meals ran us between R220 and R250 or 14-16 USD total as in the bill for both of us have have a full meal and a drink- beer will run you a dollar usd. Over 2 days we had 4 meals which I will describe below:
Day 1
J had a chicken campangola which was chicken breast with spinach and mozzarella on top baked in the oven. It came with roasted veggies and potato wedges. He had a castle beer- a 2000 gold medal winner
I had a chicken curry, which consisted of a half of a chicken in one of the best coconut curry sauces I have ever had. Tangy and sweet yet creamy with a subtle heat at the back of the palette. I also had a hot chocolate as it was windy out and I needed something to keep me warm.
Total bill with tip R220
Day 2
J had a large spare rib pizza - of which he ate half for lunch and saved the other half for dinner. Today he had a large Mango Juice to drink
I had a flat bread sandwich melt, which consisted of chicken, sundried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese. It also came with potato wedges. I also finished about half of the of mine and will eat the rest for dinner. I had a lemon iced tea with my meal.
Unlike yesterday I did save room for dessert. I ordered the peppermint tart, which was a layered dessert consisting of whipped cream, caramel, chocolate, thin cookies and peppermint crisps. It was very tasty--I ate half and saved the rest for my dinner.
Today's total bill with tip R250 but since it is feeding us for two meals today it breaks down to R125 a meal - that's less than $10
The surroundings we very beautiful making our simple lunch feel peaceful and romantic
*links and photos will be added on July 15th when I have computer access.
July 7, 2016
Started off slow. J and I have yogurt with chocolate chips for breakfast, I stuck to tea, while he had 3 cups of coffee. Around 11am we went out to Blyde River Canyon for some hiking. We went to a small waterfall and took some photos, J was in his happy place. We then hiked down to the bottom of the cayon--just remember, if you go down, you have to come back up--and it sucks. I got a great panoramic shot and a few good ones of J as well.
 |
| Bottom of the lake at the top of the Blyde River Dam |
After our hike we went to Moholoholo Ya Mati for lunches. I had a chicken bake with spinach and mozzarella cheese and a beer while I had chicken curry and hot coco- total bill R220 (16R=$1) so about $16 including tip.
Andre made a big deal about the chapel on the property and while pretty it wasn't anything special, the food on the other hand is worth coming back for.
After we got back--around 3pm I decided to give the shower another go, as I was sweaty. J was kind enough to make sure it was warm enough for me, and we found the trick:
Crank the hot water all the way on, then when there is steam coming from the shower, turn on the cold tap just s smidgin to cool it down a touch and drastically increase the water pressure.
5 minutes later shower was done, got in sweats and jumped into my bed to warm up and watch a movie. J brought a cup of tea before going into the kitchen to read his book.
More stew for dinner tonight relaxing day tomorrow, then back to joburg
Sunday, July 10, 2016
July 6, 2016
Woke up at 4:30 AM, made breakfast eggs and bread with cheese. J was fine however about halfway through, I knew I was not. I will spare you the Details but it was touch and go on whether I would go on safari.
By 5:10 am I was toughing it out in a very chilly, windy, and bumpy safari truck. But at least there were blankets to keep me warm.
We were on the tour with a family from Isreal, a Rabbi(originally from Albany NY) his wife and 2 of their grandsons--teenagers.
We entered the Kruger @ Orpen Gate, about a 40min drive from our camp. Once in the gate, we started to see animals right away. An elephant greeted us, followed by some wildebeest. Before officially entering the park, there was a place to stop for a snack, J got the cappuccino, I stuck to ginger beer on honeycomb candy--having a Justin from departures moment eating only candy in foreign countries.
After the first sightings, the morning was a bit slow, until after stopping for breakfast. The family with us, shared their breakfast, though I was still not eating much. After that the day picked up.
The animals we saw are listed below. Photos will be online by the end of the week.
Lions- a whole pride had taken down a water buffalo and they were going to town on it.
Leopard- a very rare sighting in the wild, we were lucky enough to find one in a tree with its kill
3hippos- due to the drought, the current population could be down by 3/4ths within the year.
White Rhino- one of Js many superb sightings, he spotted a family in the bush.
Elephants- we saw a lot of them, from beginning to end and very close to the truck.
Giraffes- plentiful, and being our spirit animal we were very happy.
Water buffalo or African buffalo- abound, they are everywhere, and crossing the road without any concern for surrounding cars or trucks.
Zebras-we saw a few families, including a prego mama.
Impala-- the white tailed dear of the Kruger, all J and I wondered, was if they taste good.
Warthog-- pumba from lion king-- faster than you'd think.
Baboon-- just running away from a bird and crossing the road in front of us.
Nile crocodile- another J spotting, just chilling on the beach.
Ostrich- J found this one too.
We got back to camp and napped for an hour, before making stew for dinner. Thanks J!! A spot of tea to keep us warm and chocolate to keep us happy.
J had a freezing shower, something I was not willing to do, so baby wipes it is. 8:30pm and after a long day , I am off to bed.
*photos and links will be put up Friday the 15tj when I have access to my computer again.
By 5:10 am I was toughing it out in a very chilly, windy, and bumpy safari truck. But at least there were blankets to keep me warm.
We were on the tour with a family from Isreal, a Rabbi(originally from Albany NY) his wife and 2 of their grandsons--teenagers.
We entered the Kruger @ Orpen Gate, about a 40min drive from our camp. Once in the gate, we started to see animals right away. An elephant greeted us, followed by some wildebeest. Before officially entering the park, there was a place to stop for a snack, J got the cappuccino, I stuck to ginger beer on honeycomb candy--having a Justin from departures moment eating only candy in foreign countries.
After the first sightings, the morning was a bit slow, until after stopping for breakfast. The family with us, shared their breakfast, though I was still not eating much. After that the day picked up.
The animals we saw are listed below. Photos will be online by the end of the week.
Leopard- a very rare sighting in the wild, we were lucky enough to find one in a tree with its kill
3hippos- due to the drought, the current population could be down by 3/4ths within the year.
White Rhino- one of Js many superb sightings, he spotted a family in the bush.
Elephants- we saw a lot of them, from beginning to end and very close to the truck.
Giraffes- plentiful, and being our spirit animal we were very happy.
Water buffalo or African buffalo- abound, they are everywhere, and crossing the road without any concern for surrounding cars or trucks.
Zebras-we saw a few families, including a prego mama.
Impala-- the white tailed dear of the Kruger, all J and I wondered, was if they taste good.
Warthog-- pumba from lion king-- faster than you'd think.
Baboon-- just running away from a bird and crossing the road in front of us.
Nile crocodile- another J spotting, just chilling on the beach.
Ostrich- J found this one too.
We got back to camp and napped for an hour, before making stew for dinner. Thanks J!! A spot of tea to keep us warm and chocolate to keep us happy.
J had a freezing shower, something I was not willing to do, so baby wipes it is. 8:30pm and after a long day , I am off to bed.
*photos and links will be put up Friday the 15tj when I have access to my computer again.
July 5, 2016
And on the 7th day he rested. This pretty much sums up most of our day. We didn't wake up until 10:15, which was good as J had gotten so little sleep the night before. The lack of hot water for a shower or coffee kept us from really getting going until 11am.
We went into Hoedspruit and got groceries at the pick-n-pay. We picked up a few sweets as well. Just finished my honey comb treat upon returning home from safari.
At 2pm we went on the cheetah tour at the endangered animal project. The guided knew everything about each of the individual animals, it was very impressive. After the tour, but at the same location, we did a big 5 safari in an open caravan. While on the big 5 safari, we saw lots of lions, a hippo, many giraffes, a few rhinos, and many others. I saw the whole cast of Lion King in real life-- simba, Nala, timon, pumba, and zazu.
It's about 7:30 pm and we are back at camp. J is attempting to make dinner, steak from the place down the road, where they can literally sell you the whole cow--I saw it, it's in the walk-in, but for us, a few steaks and some ginger tea, and we will be fine.
After dinner, was the attempt at a shower. J braves the first go round with unruly temperatures. By my turn it was bearable. Short shower, off to bed for an early morning tomorrow.
We went into Hoedspruit and got groceries at the pick-n-pay. We picked up a few sweets as well. Just finished my honey comb treat upon returning home from safari.
At 2pm we went on the cheetah tour at the endangered animal project. The guided knew everything about each of the individual animals, it was very impressive. After the tour, but at the same location, we did a big 5 safari in an open caravan. While on the big 5 safari, we saw lots of lions, a hippo, many giraffes, a few rhinos, and many others. I saw the whole cast of Lion King in real life-- simba, Nala, timon, pumba, and zazu.
It's about 7:30 pm and we are back at camp. J is attempting to make dinner, steak from the place down the road, where they can literally sell you the whole cow--I saw it, it's in the walk-in, but for us, a few steaks and some ginger tea, and we will be fine.
After dinner, was the attempt at a shower. J braves the first go round with unruly temperatures. By my turn it was bearable. Short shower, off to bed for an early morning tomorrow.
Saturday, July 9, 2016
I interrupt the previously scheduled blog for a dose of...
REALITY.
For the last week I have been off the grid and blissfully ignorant to the continually spinning world. Unaware of 2 police brutality shootings, unaware of the mass shooting of officers doing their jobs by protecting a peaceful protest, unaware that a man was shot in my back yard, by cops whose patrol starts less than a mile from my home, by police I have unknowingly counted on to keep me safe.
Philando Castile was shot inside his car, 5 miles from my home in the falcon heights area, on the intersection of laupenture and fry. That's less than 2 blocks off the road I took home from work everyday.
I have not watched the video, honestly I am not ready to. I still have another week before I am back in Minnesota, with no idea what I am going home to, wanting to help, but having no idea how.
The tipping point has been crossed in our country, how we handle it will determine the type of future we want and the type of people we are.
For the last week I have been off the grid and blissfully ignorant to the continually spinning world. Unaware of 2 police brutality shootings, unaware of the mass shooting of officers doing their jobs by protecting a peaceful protest, unaware that a man was shot in my back yard, by cops whose patrol starts less than a mile from my home, by police I have unknowingly counted on to keep me safe.
Philando Castile was shot inside his car, 5 miles from my home in the falcon heights area, on the intersection of laupenture and fry. That's less than 2 blocks off the road I took home from work everyday.
I have not watched the video, honestly I am not ready to. I still have another week before I am back in Minnesota, with no idea what I am going home to, wanting to help, but having no idea how.
The tipping point has been crossed in our country, how we handle it will determine the type of future we want and the type of people we are.
Amanzimloti Review
Review of Amanzimloti
I will share the review first and then each of our days at camp.
I give the hut and the camp in general 4/5 stars. I debated giving it less, but you get what you pay for and at $40 a night compared to the camps around us changing up to $600 a night, I cannot really complain, that being said, I do have a few notes.
Both my partner and I have stayed at self catering cabins in the US and else where and the one thing they all have in common, is that they provide you with the basics:
In the bathroom: wash clothes, hand towels, towels
Bedroom: bedding and pillows
Kitchen: plates, bowls, cups, eating utensils and knives and pots and pans cooking utensils, salt, pepper and cooking oil.
While Amanzimloti had much of this it did not have all and thus life was a bit difficult upon first arrival.
We had no wash clothes, which when you only have hot water out of the kitchen tap, makes cleaning yourself difficult.
We had no plates--only bowls, only 1 knife and no cooking utensils, also no pepper or oil. This made making eggs the first night rough, it also means we purchased additional items and left them there, now all he needs is plates.
Finally in the bedroom, the space heater doesn't work, it turns on but produces no heat. And finally there is an electric box at head level behind the bed that I whacked my head on- I consider it a hazard- maybe putting foam around it would help.
As far as taking a shower, we figured out a method: run the hot tap for 3 minutes allowing it to heat up, then when it is steaming turn the cold tap on just a bit to bring down the temp and increase water pressure, then take a 5 minute or less shower.
Another tip- drive a jeep, our little Ford Focus equivalent struggled on the bumpy road ways 4-wheel drive would have been better.
Now to the good news, it is peaceful, though there was not as much animal activity as Andre claimed their would be, the silence is deafening and the night sky is beautiful.
Andre is also a wealth of information and you'd be wise to listen to him. Both the big 5 safari and the full day safaris that he booked for us were a success. We saw all big 5 and ugly 5 and many many more. The cheetah project- or as it is now called the endangered animal project was a very educational tour that you can read more about in my blog from titled July 5th.
The final recommendation that he gave earned a blog spot all to itself give how wonderful it was and that is Moholoholo Ya Mati for the best value food in the area. So good infact that we ate their twice.
As for directions, follow Andres as they are the easiest and best roads and you go through the lovely town of Dullstroom, where you can grab a great beer, and a good milkshake(see blog for full review cdrawe dot blogspot dot com)
My partner and I both agree that it's a good location and a great value if all you are looking for is a place to sleep and don't plan to do much cooking, however if you are looking to cook, unless you live in country and can bring more with you, you may want to find something else.
I got a not so nice response from Andre after my review went live. I stand by it. He had photos of things that we could not find when there. The hot water does not last long and takes time to heat up, the heater did not work, and two of the cooking utensils shown, we purchased.
I will share the review first and then each of our days at camp.
I give the hut and the camp in general 4/5 stars. I debated giving it less, but you get what you pay for and at $40 a night compared to the camps around us changing up to $600 a night, I cannot really complain, that being said, I do have a few notes.
Both my partner and I have stayed at self catering cabins in the US and else where and the one thing they all have in common, is that they provide you with the basics:
In the bathroom: wash clothes, hand towels, towels
Bedroom: bedding and pillows
Kitchen: plates, bowls, cups, eating utensils and knives and pots and pans cooking utensils, salt, pepper and cooking oil.
While Amanzimloti had much of this it did not have all and thus life was a bit difficult upon first arrival.
We had no wash clothes, which when you only have hot water out of the kitchen tap, makes cleaning yourself difficult.
We had no plates--only bowls, only 1 knife and no cooking utensils, also no pepper or oil. This made making eggs the first night rough, it also means we purchased additional items and left them there, now all he needs is plates.
Finally in the bedroom, the space heater doesn't work, it turns on but produces no heat. And finally there is an electric box at head level behind the bed that I whacked my head on- I consider it a hazard- maybe putting foam around it would help.
As far as taking a shower, we figured out a method: run the hot tap for 3 minutes allowing it to heat up, then when it is steaming turn the cold tap on just a bit to bring down the temp and increase water pressure, then take a 5 minute or less shower.
Another tip- drive a jeep, our little Ford Focus equivalent struggled on the bumpy road ways 4-wheel drive would have been better.
Now to the good news, it is peaceful, though there was not as much animal activity as Andre claimed their would be, the silence is deafening and the night sky is beautiful.
Andre is also a wealth of information and you'd be wise to listen to him. Both the big 5 safari and the full day safaris that he booked for us were a success. We saw all big 5 and ugly 5 and many many more. The cheetah project- or as it is now called the endangered animal project was a very educational tour that you can read more about in my blog from titled July 5th.
The final recommendation that he gave earned a blog spot all to itself give how wonderful it was and that is Moholoholo Ya Mati for the best value food in the area. So good infact that we ate their twice.
As for directions, follow Andres as they are the easiest and best roads and you go through the lovely town of Dullstroom, where you can grab a great beer, and a good milkshake(see blog for full review cdrawe dot blogspot dot com)
My partner and I both agree that it's a good location and a great value if all you are looking for is a place to sleep and don't plan to do much cooking, however if you are looking to cook, unless you live in country and can bring more with you, you may want to find something else.
I got a not so nice response from Andre after my review went live. I stand by it. He had photos of things that we could not find when there. The hot water does not last long and takes time to heat up, the heater did not work, and two of the cooking utensils shown, we purchased.
Drive to Amanzimloti July 4, 2016
Well I had something short snd sweet written but J said it wasn't nice, so I guess I will try again. I drove from the city as J didn't get enough sleep the night before, driving on the wrong side of the road is fine, except for when you are making turns because then you really have to think about what lane you are going to. Also, we kept looking for our seatbelts on the wrong side.
What we learned this trip is that I have a lead foot and that frustrates J, that driving together has a tendency to not bring out the best in people. J took over the wheel, enjoyed it much more than me, so he drove most of the trip, while I did shorter drives to and from our camp.
Potholes are a chronic issue in Africa, and can be extremely dangerous. Additionally the unpaved roads provide what locals call and African massage as they are sooo bumpy. But we survived and are still talking so J will just do the driving on the way back.
What we learned this trip is that I have a lead foot and that frustrates J, that driving together has a tendency to not bring out the best in people. J took over the wheel, enjoyed it much more than me, so he drove most of the trip, while I did shorter drives to and from our camp.
Potholes are a chronic issue in Africa, and can be extremely dangerous. Additionally the unpaved roads provide what locals call and African massage as they are sooo bumpy. But we survived and are still talking so J will just do the driving on the way back.
Protea Airport Joburg by Marriot
Protea by Marriott
Lovely hotel, free wifi-- which in this part of the world is a luxury, shuttle to and from the airport and a wonderful South African style breakfast buffet in the morning. The room was well appointed. Beds were comfortable enough for 1 nights. The bathroom is where things got interesting-- as it was part of the hotel room. No doors not even to the shower, which was enclosed by a curved piece of glass. Only a private water closet (toilet) with a frosted glass door.
South Africa. Style breakfast was interesting- J really enjoyed it but I am still adjusting to the time changes and wasn't hungry for much even though it looked wonderful
Lovely hotel, free wifi-- which in this part of the world is a luxury, shuttle to and from the airport and a wonderful South African style breakfast buffet in the morning. The room was well appointed. Beds were comfortable enough for 1 nights. The bathroom is where things got interesting-- as it was part of the hotel room. No doors not even to the shower, which was enclosed by a curved piece of glass. Only a private water closet (toilet) with a frosted glass door.
South Africa. Style breakfast was interesting- J really enjoyed it but I am still adjusting to the time changes and wasn't hungry for much even though it looked wonderful
Sunday, July 3, 2016
The KLM lounge Amsterdam
Lounge in Amsterdam
I have never seen a lounge this big and by the time we left it was fairly full. Since we arrived early in the morning it didn't seem proper to enjoy some of the adult perks of the lounge but I have included a photo
Unlimited free and all you can consume-- hence some people look a lot less with it than others
I on the other hand had a latte and donuts that look almost too perfect to eat
J got a very unfortunate picture of me falling asleep on the chairs - for now we will leave that for his eyes only
I have never seen a lounge this big and by the time we left it was fairly full. Since we arrived early in the morning it didn't seem proper to enjoy some of the adult perks of the lounge but I have included a photo
Unlimited free and all you can consume-- hence some people look a lot less with it than others
I on the other hand had a latte and donuts that look almost too perfect to eat
J got a very unfortunate picture of me falling asleep on the chairs - for now we will leave that for his eyes only
777 to South Africa
777 to South Africa
Well much better this time than the last flight. Primarily because I slept. Again in business class lay flat seat-- check that off the bucket list. I prefer to take the seat entirely into bed mode and then raise my head up about 20 degrees.
Upon boarding we had lunch where I learned a very important lesson--if you have no idea what something is, don't order it. My stomach was in knots and my taste buds in agony over whatever fishy tartare I took a bite of. However the coconut curry chicken with pearl pasta was brilliant. I stuck with water this go round-- it is morning here after all.
After lunch I proceeded to take a 5 hour nap and watch Spectre leaving me with about 3 hours left in my flight and somewhere over Angola.
This plane ride is quieter than the last or at least my sleep time was turbulence free so no head phones needed. I did appreciate the quilt as it helped me to feel homey and the pillow was fluffy like home. All provided by #KLM
As I had missed snack I called for the flight attendant and asked for something sweet, he kindly brought me ice cream and a stroop waffle (happy place).
I opted for a short 90 film "mothers and daughters" to stay awake with since Js movie wasn't over to talk
Now I will stay awake til we get to our hotel so I can sleep through the night and be well adjusted tomorrow.
Dinner
While KLM calls it a lite bite it fit the bill for me just fine.
I had the penne pasta which was a sort of pasta bake with lots of cheese spinach and tomato sauce I also had a chicken salad on the side but it wasn't nearly as good. The fruit was a citrus mix that was a bit too tart for me, but J greatly enjoyed it.
We both got the Flying Dutchman as our drink with dinner -- it's a gin based cocktail with grapefruit liquor, lemon and simple syrup a tart and refreshing drink that feels fit for summer-- a state of mind I am coming from but not heading to
Omg the apple pie for dessert was mind blowing. A cinnamon cake like crust filled will warm apple goodness topped with whipped cream it was heaven on a plate
Finally on every KLM flight you receive a gift of a little house filled with a little alcohol this is what we picked up this trip
Well much better this time than the last flight. Primarily because I slept. Again in business class lay flat seat-- check that off the bucket list. I prefer to take the seat entirely into bed mode and then raise my head up about 20 degrees.
Upon boarding we had lunch where I learned a very important lesson--if you have no idea what something is, don't order it. My stomach was in knots and my taste buds in agony over whatever fishy tartare I took a bite of. However the coconut curry chicken with pearl pasta was brilliant. I stuck with water this go round-- it is morning here after all.
After lunch I proceeded to take a 5 hour nap and watch Spectre leaving me with about 3 hours left in my flight and somewhere over Angola.
This plane ride is quieter than the last or at least my sleep time was turbulence free so no head phones needed. I did appreciate the quilt as it helped me to feel homey and the pillow was fluffy like home. All provided by #KLM
As I had missed snack I called for the flight attendant and asked for something sweet, he kindly brought me ice cream and a stroop waffle (happy place).
I opted for a short 90 film "mothers and daughters" to stay awake with since Js movie wasn't over to talk
Now I will stay awake til we get to our hotel so I can sleep through the night and be well adjusted tomorrow.
Dinner
While KLM calls it a lite bite it fit the bill for me just fine.
I had the penne pasta which was a sort of pasta bake with lots of cheese spinach and tomato sauce I also had a chicken salad on the side but it wasn't nearly as good. The fruit was a citrus mix that was a bit too tart for me, but J greatly enjoyed it.
We both got the Flying Dutchman as our drink with dinner -- it's a gin based cocktail with grapefruit liquor, lemon and simple syrup a tart and refreshing drink that feels fit for summer-- a state of mind I am coming from but not heading to
Omg the apple pie for dessert was mind blowing. A cinnamon cake like crust filled will warm apple goodness topped with whipped cream it was heaven on a plate
Finally on every KLM flight you receive a gift of a little house filled with a little alcohol this is what we picked up this trip
Saturday, July 2, 2016
747 to Amsterdam
That sounds like a movie title or the name of a book..but instead it's my life. I took notes on the flight and am just pasting them in here on the layover in Amsterdam thanx to lounge wi-fi
Flight to Amsterdam
Top deck of a 747 is checked off the bucket list. Lay flat seats--though I cannot go fully flat as I prefer a slight incline, do enjoy the seemingly limitless leg room. J is 6'4" and did fit in the lay flat seat comfortably
Dinner was okay--but it was wonderful to eat off of real plates and use actual silverware with linen napkins and tray table cloths. Glass drinking glasses also help in limiting the stress of being at 30000+ feet.
Butternut squash soup was perfect, lettuce is salad should hav been more cut up for ease of eating at 30000 ft. Dinner with beef shanks had olives in it-- kinda ruins good food, the potatoes were great and the veggies still had some crunch, which I really appreciate. I like sweet chocolate desserts and for me chocolate mousse was not sweet enough and to be honest didn't taste of chocolate. The red wine was better than the white and the after dinner wine was very very sweet (think gut rot sweet of college drinks). I stuck with water and cranberry juice. I think I'll stick with those and liquor next time
Entertainment was good - great selection of movies and music, I watched "how to be single" and listened to classical music. As for television, single and very random tv episodes make watching difficult, but they did have Top Gear so I cannot really complain
Sleep was a joke, between the coffee consumed yesterday, the time differences and my anxiety about flying, the second I put the eye mask on, I started to have a panic attack. Didn't want to wake J so I put on classical music and did deep breathing. I got a few short naps, and being able to stretch out and be comfortable helped ease the panic issues. Comfort was also increased by having a closer to real pillow, noise canceling head phones and a very cozy quilt all provided by KLM for the flight, but I think sleep aids are in order next time I need to sleep on a flight.
J got about 3.5 hours of sleep - he also loves being on planes and only had 2 cups of coffee yesterday.
Breakfast- a bit of a lie and a let down. The cheese strata was supposed to have corn and tomato-- instead it had yucky mushrooms--can you tell I'm not a fan, but if that's your thing, there was nothing actually wrong with it- just not what the menu said. Also strawberries in fruit cups and strawberry jam made for a pretty plain breakfast for me as I am allergic. The yogurt and granola was good as was the croissant.
Nothing and I mean nothing so far in my life has beat watching the dawn of a new day from 36000ft. On one side of the plane is the sunrise and on the other it's still night. A truly breath taking view over the UK less than 1 hour left
We have safely landed. Another person accidentally took Js suit case off the plane, while it was quickly realized, I made my point as to why I carry the bags I do...NO ONE ever accidentally walks off with them.
That's all for now
Ttfn
Claire
Renaissance Review
The airport Renaissance Hotel sits walking distance from the blue line if transit shuttles aren't your thing. The lobby greats you with two+ story ceilings and a warm reception space and bar. While not directly next to the airport, it's close proximity means you will hear planes taking off and landing 24/7. Just something to consider.
Room: 2-room suite on the 15th floor with views of the distant downtown skyline.
Living space: desk, chair, small coffee station w/ ice bucket and glasses, small sectional couch and a television.
Bedroom: comfortable beds, night stands with lamps, a small closet and a small 3-drawer dresser with a 27" television.
Bathroom: acceasible from both living and bedrooms, it has a large vanity space and mirror, toilet and large walk in shower with glass door.
Traveling with another person is wonderful, but having space from time to time is nice too-- having the two rooms gave us that.
ASADO URBAN GRILL- hotel restaurant
Dinner: J and I agree that this was one of the most awkward dinner experiences ever. We were the only people in the dinning room, which was dark and poorly styled. The wall filled with wine racks had one lonely empty bottle and the light fixtures had sharp needle like objects a fixed to them, that made us feel like we were in a tourture chamber. The over all lack of light in a grey on grey on grey space made it feel like a funeral home.
The food wasn't anything to write home about. A standard burger, chicken sandwich and fries. While the fries were the best part of the meal it was still a basic dinner.
Breakfast: We didn't have high standards going in, especially given our experience the night before, however, we were pleasantly surprised. The grey curtains were opened and natural light filled at least the perimeter of the space where we were seated. The food also pleasantly surprised us. We had the buffet as the lounge was closed so breakfast was on the house.
Fresh fruit: cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, blueberry, raspberry, and blackberries.
Standards: cereal and milk, yogurt, pastries, bagels and spreads, scrambled eggs, sausage and bacon, coffee and juice
Above and beyond: waffles, French toast, pancakes, oatmeal station, and custom omelettes
I wouldn't say it's worth the $20 that they would typically charge for it, but since the lounge is under construction and it was free, it was a good option.
There is also a full Starbucks on the property for breakfast/ coffee
*photos will be posted when I have access to my computer on July 16th
Room: 2-room suite on the 15th floor with views of the distant downtown skyline.
Living space: desk, chair, small coffee station w/ ice bucket and glasses, small sectional couch and a television.
Bedroom: comfortable beds, night stands with lamps, a small closet and a small 3-drawer dresser with a 27" television.
Bathroom: acceasible from both living and bedrooms, it has a large vanity space and mirror, toilet and large walk in shower with glass door.
Traveling with another person is wonderful, but having space from time to time is nice too-- having the two rooms gave us that.
ASADO URBAN GRILL- hotel restaurant
Dinner: J and I agree that this was one of the most awkward dinner experiences ever. We were the only people in the dinning room, which was dark and poorly styled. The wall filled with wine racks had one lonely empty bottle and the light fixtures had sharp needle like objects a fixed to them, that made us feel like we were in a tourture chamber. The over all lack of light in a grey on grey on grey space made it feel like a funeral home.
The food wasn't anything to write home about. A standard burger, chicken sandwich and fries. While the fries were the best part of the meal it was still a basic dinner.
Breakfast: We didn't have high standards going in, especially given our experience the night before, however, we were pleasantly surprised. The grey curtains were opened and natural light filled at least the perimeter of the space where we were seated. The food also pleasantly surprised us. We had the buffet as the lounge was closed so breakfast was on the house.
Fresh fruit: cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, blueberry, raspberry, and blackberries.
Standards: cereal and milk, yogurt, pastries, bagels and spreads, scrambled eggs, sausage and bacon, coffee and juice
Above and beyond: waffles, French toast, pancakes, oatmeal station, and custom omelettes
I wouldn't say it's worth the $20 that they would typically charge for it, but since the lounge is under construction and it was free, it was a good option.
There is also a full Starbucks on the property for breakfast/ coffee
*photos will be posted when I have access to my computer on July 16th
Friday, July 1, 2016
On the road
We made it to the airport to pick up a rental car, which for J at 6'4" is a difficult task, but we found one he fits in and it even has heated seats to make my ride more comfortable and sleep pleasant. I've been telling him for over a week about Norske Nook (link in previous post), and how the food is good but we all go for the pie. Well after 2 hours in the car we finally made it and J realized this was no joke- just a mile or so off exit 88 on I-94 is some amazing homemade goodness.
He had country fried steak and eggs and I had baking powder biscuits and sausage gravy. So full from brunch, we got pie to go--Dutch Apple for him and raspberry sour cream for me.
Pie review from rest stop 17-- well we made it past mad-town, didn't stop for ice cream this time still too full from brunch, but around mile 169 we decided to stop and eat our pie--conclusion...I've held up my end on this trip now it's Js turn. He liked his pie and I enjoyed mine as much as I could considering the stench at the rest stop--but I will eat more later. Back on the road we go 100 or so miles left to ORD.
Update-- made it to Chicago. Found our hotel off to rest and relax before tomorrow
He had country fried steak and eggs and I had baking powder biscuits and sausage gravy. So full from brunch, we got pie to go--Dutch Apple for him and raspberry sour cream for me.
Pie review from rest stop 17-- well we made it past mad-town, didn't stop for ice cream this time still too full from brunch, but around mile 169 we decided to stop and eat our pie--conclusion...I've held up my end on this trip now it's Js turn. He liked his pie and I enjoyed mine as much as I could considering the stench at the rest stop--but I will eat more later. Back on the road we go 100 or so miles left to ORD.
Update-- made it to Chicago. Found our hotel off to rest and relax before tomorrow
And So it Begins...
1 Day til we leave for South Africa, but today our adventure begins. In a few minutes, J will be picking me up so we can take the light rail to the airport and pick up our rental. We are driving to Chicago for our flight. We are going down a day in advance so Norske Nook for the best pies in the mid-west and U of Wisconsin for some University made Ice Cream. This journey with J is a little new and a little scary, but we've handled tougher and this will be fun.
So much Love
Claire
So much Love
Claire
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Getting Ready
2 Days. The countdown has begun and we are 2 days away from leaving for South Africa. My partner (J) loves to travel, in face some would say he's made a career out of it, I on the other hand like road trips and back packing, things that keep me very close the the ground. The thought of being on a plane for over 17 hours scares the hell out of me. J has done everything he can to ensure that the trip will be smooth, that we will be comfortable and that I won't be scared. Guess I cannot know until it happens.
The other part of getting ready has been packing. And I must say I am very proud of myself. We will be traveling from the 1st-15th and July and I packed it all in a rolling carry-on and a purse. I am in love with my Carry-on. J says it's the most obnoxious thing he's ever seen. And he's right it is--and that's just the way I like it. It's a bag that looks like no one else and no one is going to take it by accident. It's light weight and has 4 multi-directional wheels, which makes it easy to carry.
In addition to the Carry-on there are other things that have made packing easier. The first being a roll-up organizer. The 4 sections are perfect to divide and organize products. Here is how I use them:
1) Make up: I am going light on this trip and only packing the basics:
The second organizer is for my passport, pens, post cards and boarding passes. cosmos organizer is just that. It was cheap under $4 and is thin enough to fit in my shoulder bag. It holds all of my pens, 10 cards and envelopes, stamps, passport, it's got space for boarding passes and a zipper pocket for other information. This is NOT an RFID travel pocket book, Your wallet and passport holder should be RFID, but because everything else is this is not.
Everything I have for 15 days is in a Carry-on and a purse for a trip of a life time. This Blog will be used to update about this trip and others I take throughout the next years.
The other part of getting ready has been packing. And I must say I am very proud of myself. We will be traveling from the 1st-15th and July and I packed it all in a rolling carry-on and a purse. I am in love with my Carry-on. J says it's the most obnoxious thing he's ever seen. And he's right it is--and that's just the way I like it. It's a bag that looks like no one else and no one is going to take it by accident. It's light weight and has 4 multi-directional wheels, which makes it easy to carry.
In addition to the Carry-on there are other things that have made packing easier. The first being a roll-up organizer. The 4 sections are perfect to divide and organize products. Here is how I use them:
1) Make up: I am going light on this trip and only packing the basics:
- 1 Lip gloss and 1 lip stick
- Foundation, Creme blush and beauty blender
- 1 eye shadow trio and double ended brush
- Eye liner crayon
- Roll on Perfume
- Nude Nail Polish
- Ora-gel
- Travel Toothpaste
- Travel mouthwash
- Battery Electric Toothbrush
- Dental Floss
- Solid Shampoo--There are a lot of places to get this, in the past I've used Several types from lush, however this trip I will be trying this 6-sample set
- A travel Hair spray
- Hotel conditioners -- Will be re-filled as we hit hotels
- Pony tail holders, a few stretchy head bands and bobbypins
- Travel Deodorant -- I personally love Alba
- Mini Hand Sanitizers
- Travel body lotions
- CeraVe Cleanser Bar--Mini travel size
The second organizer is for my passport, pens, post cards and boarding passes. cosmos organizer is just that. It was cheap under $4 and is thin enough to fit in my shoulder bag. It holds all of my pens, 10 cards and envelopes, stamps, passport, it's got space for boarding passes and a zipper pocket for other information. This is NOT an RFID travel pocket book, Your wallet and passport holder should be RFID, but because everything else is this is not.
Everything I have for 15 days is in a Carry-on and a purse for a trip of a life time. This Blog will be used to update about this trip and others I take throughout the next years.
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