First Night, First Disco

So after so much sobering religion at the Vatican, we wanted to live it up at an Italian disco. Screw jet lag and exhaustion. We would do it the Italian way, stop off at a bar for a shot of espresso.

Only problem was, we did not know where to go or how far it would be. Luckily, kim had gotten adivce from a friend to go to piazza navana. So, being the cheap Americans we are we walked, and walked and walked. We checked the map, and once again being typical Americans that didn't learn geography, we always thought it was around the corner. Well, it wasn't. We walked more and more. In circles, back and forth and got completely lost. So, we said forget the disco, let's go to this Irish pub we kept seeing signs for that included a map, it was around the corner. (remember what I said about italians and directions) So once again we walked and walked. Twenty minutes later, I was done. All I wanted was to sit down and have a beer. I didn't care where we went, and at that moment the world opened up and I heard loud obnoxious bar noise. We followed it down a scary alley and at the end was another irish pub. What is it with Europe and Irish pubs? Being cute girls, we cut the line, got a table, and sat down to drink our strong Irish beer. This of course lead to drunk conversations figuring out world peace, temperature, and the wonders of AC. (dont you love those conversations, so brilliant, yet never remembered.)

Now that should have been the end of the night. It had already been a long day. Train rides, Vatican, pubs, but when you have strong irish beer in you the night never ends so easily. (another example of this will be in Nice) So once the convos slowed the three of us decided to splurge and take a taxi, that yes ripped us off. Not surprising, we were three drunk Americans that were probably very obnoxious. We get to our piazza and start to walk to our hotel. And who is out front but some Italian guys who eagerly invited us to the disco below our hotel. Yes we walked miles looking for a disco and there was one a few floors under our hotel.

Unfortunately, this is when our night really turned painful. One of the creepy, greasy italian guys became obsessed with my blond hair and kept touching it saying, "California, I love California , I love blonde. " Not liking being touched by strange greasy men, I told him repeatly I was not from California but Pennsylvania and not to touch me. He responded by trying to get me to go to a dark part of the bar. I responded by saying I had a boyfriend, get off. He responded by now hugging me and trying to kiss my arm. This was all a bit much for me. I yelled at him to get off, jumped off my seat and stood near my friend. She tried to help the situation by telling him we were gay, and she was my girlfriend. Of course greasy Italian guy had a comeback, and told us to kiss. I did consider it for a second, but just couldn't. Luckily, katie then came over and distracted him with a conversation on America. Yes, it gets worse. He then claims that 911 never happened. We all three flipped on him then and took this as our time to leave. Which is good, because during the 911 controversial fight, katie had fallen off a bar stool and sprained her ankle. How you do this? I do not know, but it was time to call it a night. We had our first real European adventure. What would be next?

Top favorite cities of Italy and France

1. Nice, France: A relaxed beach town. Close enough to Italy for great food and still has the old European feel.
2. Rome, Italy: Around every corner is something beautiful.
3. San Remo, Italy: A small beach town with very friendly people. Just a pain to get too.
4. Paris, France: It's beautiful but the people are rude, it's extremely commercialized, and reminds me too much of New York City.
5. Cecina, Italy: A small and quaint coastal village.

When in Rome

So my work had finished. My time as an English tutor had come to an end, and finally I could vacation. My first stop is Rome, where I met up with my friends from home. The plan is to meet at the mcdonalds at the train station. Of course I couldn't find the mcdonalds. Who can't find a mcdonalds? But by the grace of god, I hear my name being screamed in the middle of a crowded platform. There are my friends smiling and exhausted. We ran to each other and hugged. Finally, people who speak English!

After we checked into out hotel we got lunch, gelato and coronnas. Now this is vacation.

Naked Mom

So Italy is hot. I mean dripping sweat, can't breath, steam rising from pools hot. Not only is it hot but no one seems to have AC. Not only is there no AC, but no one seems to have fans. I know they make fans. I see them in the grocery stores, but no where I stayed had a fan. Everyone just constantly complains of the heat, but they do nothing about it. I know this makes me sound like a spoiled American, but I can't help it. An open non screened window just doesn't cut it.

This is how I saw my foster mom naked!

It was a ridiculously hot night. I had my windows wide open, and had covered myself with bug spray before bed. Even though I knew it wouldn't matter. I was averaging 10 mosquito bites a night. I slept on top of the covers. In fact, i had never bothered to ever turn the bed down, it was so hot. I woke up around 2am drenched in sweat. I was so hot, I couldn't breath. I needed water. I desperately needed water. So, i got up, pulled on some shorts and peeked out my door. It was dark and quiet except for the tv in the living room was on. I figured the mom probably feel asleep watching it. So, I crept out to the kitchen. I decided not to turn on the lights so I wouldn't wake her. I found a glass and poured my water in the dark. Just as I was closing the refrigerator the light turned on. I turned around and there was the mom completely naked. I mean COMPLETELY naked. We looked startled at each other. I probably stood for a full 30 seconds in shock not knowing what to do. Then I just started sputtering, "scuis, aqua, aqua" while pointing at my glass. She of course giggled, and I rushed past her to my bedroom. No sooner did I reach my bedroom then I laid in bed and realized, damn I needed to go to the bathroom!

This story was the topic of conversation at the breakfast table. Everyone thought it was hilarious. So, I laughed at it too. Although, having the image of 55 year old's naked body burned in my brain is not pleasant to say the least. I do know see what people mean when they say Europeans are a lot more free thinking when it comes to clothes.

Fourth of July in Cechina Italy

So Florence was fun and pretty. However, I went with my host family, and they kept forgetting that I don't speak a lot of Italian. So as they explained things they would slip into Italian, because they knew little English. So, I did not learn a lot. I did take lots of pictures and say "si, bella, bella" a lot.

The following day was the fourth of July. Even though I wasn't in America, I still wanted to recognize it in some way. I felt i needed to represent America. So after work Lia and I were trying to decide what bar (Italian for cafe) to go when our boss suggested the beach. We had no idea we were even near a beach. We had not seen it, heard it, or even saw signs for it. However, Antoinette assured us it was just down the street. She claimed you make one right and go straight and it is right there. This is when I learned how different Italian directions are to American.

We got on our bikes and started peddling. We didn't have our swimsuits, but figured we could just sit on the beach and have a celebratory drink. We made our left and peddled and peddled. After a while the road turned into a dirt road. The nice houses turned into sunflower farms. There seemed to be no people around. We both figured we had to be lost after riding for 15 minutes. Antoinette said we were only 5 minutes away. Finally, I saw a sign for Mediterranean. We figured that's the name of the sea, it got to be there. Especially since straight ahead was what looked like a forest. So we made the turn and instantly new it had to be wrong. It was a tiny dirt road with pigs and dogs roaming it. A scary dog started barking at us and that's when we saw a farmer. Lia asked in bad Italian/English, "Dove sea?" he replied it was through the forest. So off we go again. We turn around, start going through the forest on a little path we found. The path started getting sandy, the air saltier,and finally the trees broke and there was the sea. Who would have thought it would be through a campground type of forest.

We were so excited we kicked off our shoes and ran barefoot into the water. We must have looked crazy in our red work shirts and sweaty faces. We did not care. We found the sea and a bar. The day ended clinking glasses of cold Mexican beer on an Italian beach toasting our American holiday. What a great fourth of July.

2nd Italian Family

I hate Italian trains. So confusing and the people are so rude. It took five trains to get to Cechina. At least I had time to practice my Italian and to mine and Lias surprise can finalloy roll my r's. When I say practice, I mean call Lias mom and ask her how to yell some smack on rude train workers. Lia had fun with this. It made me realize I need to learn th Italian that Rosetta stone doesn't teach!

Anyway, I finally made it to Cechina. A small village on the coast. I'm staying with an older couple and their daughter who is six. It took me awhile to figure out they were the parents and not grandparents. Especially since there weren't a lot of toys about. I'm thinking she's an oops baby, but you can tell she's very much loved. They speak almost no english though. This is going to be a long week.

That night during dinner their nephew came over. He was around my age. From what I gathered from the conversation, he was on his way to a disco, and the father told him to take me. I agreed to go. I had been working so hard all week and had a stressful train ride. A night out would be fun, and the other Italian family was so nice always wanting to take me out. It would be nice to get out. However, the nephew was not ok with this. I didn't get all of what they were saying but there was an argument it seemed about me. At least that's what I figured when the nephew pointed at me. So trying to be polite, I asked what time they would get back. He said six am. I said that was too late, but thanks. Of course the father offers to pick me up whenever I wanted. Another argument happened between the family. I felt very awkward at this pint. I decided this was not a good idea for me to go. This guy was not like my other Italian family. So after much convincing, they believed I was too tired after all. The nephew was rude about it. The mother seemed relieved, and the father went to bed. I appreciated the effort.

O'well, doesn't matter. This has been a long long day. At least they're taking me to Florence tomorrow!

First Camp

Camp is crazy. Twenty kids and just me, Lia, And Valentina the director. I like it though. We try to teach them as much English as we can, but balance that with a good amount of games. Our day is filled with water games, scavenger hunts, and Olympics. It's very tiring.

However, tomorrow is the final day. I enjoy my family and my class. They're fun and relaxing. Italy is relaxing. I swear I look so much healthier. I walk or ride my bike everywhere and play with the kids every day. After work, me, Lia, and Valentina go to a bar (cafe) for campari and to relax. Valentina is friendly. She has big dreams to move to London, but not a lot of confidence. Afterwards, I go to my Cammozzono home, shower and eat dinner wth the family. Which is always interesting. I forgot how nice it is to eat a family dinner. My family doesn't even do that at holidays anymore. The family talks passionately and gestures wildly. We always compare English and Italian words. They laugh when they hear me try to speak Italian. I guess I'm pretty bad, lol. I usually spend an hour after dinner talking to Luca, the brother, and Laura using google to translate. We all practice our new language skills with each other. It's fun. I think this is just what I needed. I feel like a new person, more confident, happier, and just relaxed. Just like the Italian way.

First Family, First Party

At my first italian families' home. It's weird, but not so bad. It's definitely uncomfortable though. The family is very nice and even though they speak little English, they do try. We use google translate a lot. The mom is sweet and very expressive. The dad just keeps asking if I'm ok. There are two brothers that keep telling me they are going to show me the dark side of Italy (the club scene), an older sister who smiles at me a lot, and the fourteen year old who is in the camp. They are so interested in me, America, and showing me their culture. The village, Ciazzgo, is small. You can ride your bike around it in about 5-10 minutes, but it's cute.

So yesterday was my first day here. We went to a festival in the piazza with another coworker, Lia, and her host family. It was cute like a little community festival in the states except instead of beer and BBQ it was espresso and pasta. Afterwards, I went to Lia's "sister" boyfriend's birthday party. Get this, the couples names' were Francesca and Francesco, and they we're the cutesy couple I have ever seen. All giggle and warm and loving. You couldn't help but enjoy being with them. It was contagious. Their friends were so warm and welcoming, speaking English at the party, calling everyone bella or bello, lots of hugs and the three kisses to say hello and goodbye. My first Italian party. Who would of thought. It was pretty calm, we drank wine sat outside and they talked and joked with each other. Even if I couldn't understand their words, I could get the jest of what they were saying with body language. My goodnesses do they love American culture. Surprising, I guess I take it for granted.

What I Learned About Italy/Italians

1. They complain a it's hot, but never use fans and rarely us AC.
2. You can understand 40% of an Italian conversation by body language alone.
3. Italians are really beatiful people.
4. Eating is very important. Always pack meals not snacks.
5. Their compliments ar wonderful and given whole-heartily.
6. Competition is good!
7. Wine is wonderful!
8. Dinner should always be in courses, with pasta as the first course.
9. Nutella is good on everything: cookies, gelato, fruit, cheese, cake, etc...
10. A whole pizza to yourself if perfecto.
11. Distance for Americans and Italians mean two different things. Italians tells you it's close, just around the corner. Then the American will be walking for thirty minutes and go around four corners to get there.
12. Lunch for a single person or child should always be packed in a medium to large sized cooler not a tiny lunch box.
13. Italian passion, although wonderful and exciting can be dangerous i.e. temper
14. Italians have natural swagger.
15. Italy uses olive oil. America used ketchup, ranch, BBQ, mustard, mayo, miracle whip, etc...

Last night of orientation

I had so much fun at orientation this week. San Remo is so beautiful and the people are so friendly. The beaches are nice even though the are rocky. The town has charming markets and bars. This is somewhere I definitely want to visit again.

Last night was our last night here at orientation. Our trainers took us out for pizza. How amazing is it that in Italy you each get your own pizza! We went to Tahiti restraunt right on the water. We ate on the patio outside, and after we took group pictures near the water. Many pictures where taken. Then, after dinner we plugged in someone's iPod to speakers each bought w bottle of wine and let loose making our own dance floor. I think after a week of intense training everyone was in need of a fun night.

Open Mic Night

The trainers setup open mic night for us after dinner. I felt like I was truly in Italy while walking up the stone path to the hidden 'La Cave' in the basement of a building on what I would call an alley. They had instruments and a mic and let us go to town with them. One boy played piano and Isabel played drums. People got up on stage to sing, and I danced and sang right along with them in the audience. So much fun. I feel so open and free here. I'm more outgoing, silly, and talkative with these people that I just met. I'm more comfortable and confident in my own skin.

On the way home, a group of italian guys applauded as we walked by them. I guess that's a compliment?

And have I told you how much I love gelato? So much better then ice-cream. I've eaten it almost everyday, but with all the walking I don't care. We went to our favorite gelato place after the bar, it's in Piazza Columbo. Apparently we weren't the only ones with that idea. So many people are out late at night, even children. Anyway, our trainers were there eating gelato too. We stopped and talked with them. They told us about living in Italy. How they love working in the camps and how they love spending their summers there. Then one of them noticed Isabel's ukaylaylee and asked her to play for us. So there, in a crowded piazza Isabel sang Hey Jude for us. She received a lot of applause.

It's so beatiul here. This is truly one of the best experiences of my life.

Orientation

Orientation is a week long. They put you up in a hotel, provide your meals, and even some entertainment. Orientation is pretty much going through the camp experience yourself. It's long and tiring, but kinda fun in a goofy way. I'm making some amazing friends. It kinda reminds me of the college dorms. I even have roommates, Chloe and Lindsey. Also, I still hang out with the Canadians and another teacher I met, Anna.

Even though we hangout a lot together, I am still trying to meet everyone and talk to a lot of different people. Everyone is from somewhere different and they are so interesting. I love hearing there stories.

This is the first time in probably years that I have ever been able to just relax. All my worries from home are gone. I just concentrate on my work here and have fun the rest of the time. With no phone and limited Internet, I'm almost completely disconnected. Which is probably pretty unbelievable for me if you know me. I will admit it was hard at first, but I actually like it. It has forced me to relax and take care of just myself for a change. I think it's what I really needed.

Tonight at dinner we learned something very important about Italian cultural. Just because food is put on the table does not mean it's free. When the waiter started putting trays and trays of meats, cheese, and breads on our table with out our ordering, we thought it was just a really friendly place. No, if you touch it you pay for it. Our bill was a bit high that night, but now we know. On the way home, we amused locals by singing and dancing down the street followed by picture taking by little cars. I forgot now nice it can be to be goofy sometimes.

The People of My Travels

It started with my trip to San Remo, Italy. Twenty four hours to take three planes, one bus, and two trains. It was an interesting trip with some interesting people along the way.

First, was Evan the Israeli solder in the Chicago airport. He was from Atlanta Georgia, but got citizenship in Israel on his 19th birthday so that he could join the Israeli army. I wish now I would have asked him the important question, why? But I didn't want to get into politics. I regret that now. It could have been an interesting conversation. He did tell me how beautiful the country side is there and how he loved to camp out. Which to be honest, I never really thought of when i heard of that country. He was getting out of the army in November and planned on working odd jobs to travel around the world.

Next, was Kieffer the Canadian/neverlander traveling with friends through Italy. When he was done with Italy, he planned on going to the Congo. His mother was there studying rape in warfare for her PHD. I met him on the first train. I told him how brave I thought he and his mother was. He said he wanted to help protect his mother. He had just graduated High school. I'm twenty nine and I don't think I could ever be that brave. Not only to travel to the Congo alone but also Italy.

When I finally got to the hotel, I met Derek. He was an American who just quit his office job to take on odd jobs abroad for as long as he can. He worked for ACLE last year and came back this year for another summer of it. When summer was over he was to go to China to teach English there for a year. I have to say, after twenty hours of traveling and almost no sleep, it was nice to be with an American. He took me to get my first gelato. I fell in love with that cool creamy desert right there and then.

Finally, there where my hotel room neighbors Sabrina, Emma, and Isabel. New to the job like me and all Canadians. I now love canadians. Such friendly and nice people. We ate a dinner of cold cuts, fresh bread, and wine on their rooftop terrace watching the sunset over an Italian church and the sounds the meditraian sea in the background. What a wonderful, crazy day. Already I was meeting such interesting people. They were really opening my eyes to a world that I never experienced before. This was sure to be a wonderful trip.

#9: Travel to a Foreign Country

So the next few posts will be about my adventures in Europe. Yes, I made it out of the country. Not just out of the country but overseas to Europe. Italy and France to be exact. It was exiting, scary and wonderful. I am definitely a traveler at heart. I only hope I get more oppurintites like this past one too see more.

This past experience came along when my hairdresser told me I should look into teaching ESL during the summer overseas. I took her advice, went online, and found ACLE. This is an organization that has summer camps in Italy to teach Italian children English. So without a thought too it I applied, and surprisingly enough got the job. I would spend three weeks being trained and then teach English in a summer camp setting. Well, this wasn't enough. I wanted to see more then just Italy. So, I looked for some friends that would want to travel with me. I found Katie and Kim. They agreed to travel with me to Rome, Paris, Nice when I was done working. And so I spent the past month in Europe. I did 7 cities in four weeks. It was exhausting, but one of the best times of my life. Everything was an adventure, including just getting there.

#3: Skydiving

So, for my 29th birthday I decided to skydive. Yes, I have a crazy fear of heights. Yes, I get motion sickness. Yes, I hate small planes. However, I didn't want something as stupid as fear to stop me from doing something I've always wanted to try. So with my best friend in tow, I reserved my ticket to skydive.

To be honest, I wasn't really scared buying the ticket, or even the night before, and only a little fear crept up during the drive to the skydive center. I kept it out of my mind. Which is easy to do when one of my my best friends is visiting for the weekend. She would be my skydive partner, but we choose not to talk about it too much. The fear stayed at bay until we finally reached the place. This tiny little place, that J announced "Isn't a real place. This can't be it. This place isn't legit." But it was, so we got out of the car after some fussing and went inside. It was a very laid-back place. Everyone was kinda sitting around and hanging out. This didn't help the nerves. We signed up and soon took our skydiving lesson. It was about five minutes long. Which did not help the fear. Personally, I feel that when doing something death defying it should take longer then five minutes to master. But, I guess there isn't that many steps to skydiving. You jump, breath, and pray. Following the lesson we got suited up. Which J cleverly commented was like getting suited up for Armageddon, and she felt aerosmith should be playing in the background. This eased the tension a bit. Finally, it was off to the plane, the small plane, the little plane the tiny plane that could barely hold four people. I was smushed up against the pilot and the door. This is when the fear started to really hit. I prayed several times to God asking him to let me survive this. The plane climbed up and up. In fact, it seemed at times to be going straight up. My instructor went over the directions for me. I reran the directions over and over again in my head. I was not going to die by doing something wrong. Finally, the door was opened, my tandem instructor stepped out, and it was my turn to leave the safety of the plane. This is when I had second thoughts. I looked out of the plane and thought there was no way I was leaving this plane. But, my partner yelled at me to step out and I knew it was too late. I stepped out onto the railing. The instructor yelled "ready, set, go" and pushed me out. It happened so fast I didn't have time to think about it. I was out and free falling. It was awesome. The horizon in front of us, the adrenaline pumping threw my body. I don't think it accrued to me that there was nothing holding me safely. I was enjoying the fall too much. Then the parachute was opened. With a hard jerk our bodies were straightened. This was so uncomfortable. The strap across my chest made it hard to breath and motion sickness took hold. He had me hold the loops to the parachute under his. He then let go to loosen the straps. I did not like this. I held on until my knuckles were white. I didn't like being loosened, that could mean falling without the chute. But he did it and I didn't complain. Finally, he grabbed the loops from me and started spinning circles. This did not help the nausea. Which he must have noticed, because he finally said he would land us. It was a nice ride, very scenic. Surprisingly I wasn't scared falling, yet I kept trying to take big breaths and hoping I wouldn't have a panic attack. I don't know if I would do it again. But I did enjoy it and very glad I did it. When we finally landed I was relieved because the nausea was pretty bad, but I never did get sick. I was quite proud of that. I stumbled over to J who announced she would never do that again. All in all, it was an awesome birthday.

#21: A fun trip to Cleveland

Once again you think Cleveland? Who takes a vacation to Cleveland? We'll when your going on your first family road trip with a 69 year old grandmother you find Cleveland, being only two hours away, is perfect. Yes, I took my grandma on a weekend getaway to the great city of Cleveland. And you know what, it was awesome. That's right, I had a fantastic laugh your ass off time with my grandma, mom, and sis in Cleveland. How could this be you wonder? Well, it helps that my family is crazy, bold, doesn't care who's watching/ listening, and our just put it all out there type of people. That is, my mom and gram are. My sister and I aren't there yet. But unlike the embarrassed teenagers we once were, we now sit back laugh and enjoy it. This is my family, and I'm stuck with them.

My sister and I decided to take them to Cleveland for a weekend Mother's Day gift. Everything was a surprise. We started the trip with a visit to the Christmas Story House museum. Yes, they made the house it was filmed in into a museum to visit. We spent an hour reinacting scenes from the film and taking pics of it. There's one of me pretending to eat the soap. One of my mom yelling in the phone as if her child just swore, and one of my gram basting a plastic turkey for a Christmas meal. It was a good time. My mom was so surprised she screamed when we pulled up to the place. She screamed so loud, in fact, I literally swerved the car and almost hit something. So yes, she was surprised.

This was followed by checking into our hotel. Which, my sister and I soon realized was all we needed to make their night. A hotel with a bar and an indoor pool, and they would have been set. Probably didn't even need to leave our own city. Just get them in a hotel with a pool for a night and they would have thought it was the best weekend ever. But we had an agenda, so off we went to the next event.

Girls Night Out: The Musical! Yes there is a musical about a bachlorrette party and it is awesome! Now maybe a typical grandmother would not enjoy a show with girls playing ring toss around a male blow up dolls 'stuff', or women singing about orgasms, but my grandma is not typical. She was laughing her threw the whole thing and loved it. After the show, she commented that the actress were so professional and talented and she truly admired them. She even found them after to tell them this. My mother got called up to the stage by a drag queen to do the catwalk and pose for the audience. She complied, worked the run way, and got a boa for her efforts. I have to say, she shined up there!

The next day, my grandma threw on her bikini, (yes, bikini) googlies, and swimming cap and went to the pool at 9am to do laps. I have to say, if I look that good at 69 I will be very happy.

We finished the trip with breakfast and outlet mall shopping. We raided the Coach store and came out with many prizes. It was a great trip. I haven't laughed that long in awhile. Whether it was my grandma flirting with the rude waiter saying his rudeness was hot, or my mom posing with her boa, or strangers staring at us in a restaurant while my family discussed the size of males 'stuff' and if it maters and what a good kiss really is. I had a great time all in all. I would do it again. Going in I really wasn't sure if it would be fun, but I'm glad to find out I can have a great time with my family.

photo credit 

#13 The Pacific Blue

The pacific blue, rolling, tumbling, moving. The magnificent ocean that connects our world to the mystic east. I finally made it. After only talking about it for years, I saw the pacific. I have to say, I fell in love with it. In fact, I fell in love with the whole west coast. The laid back feel, the beautiful landscape, and the beachie atmosphere. If I didn't love being near my family, I could see trying it out for awhile. But, I'm stuck here. I know it's by choice, but I still dream of being closer to the sea.

A few years ago, one of my best friends moved out to San Diego. I've talking about visiting for years. With time and money restraints, I just never got to it. But this year, I decided I was going to make it happen.

The trip was wonderful. I saw the Wildlife Park, the outlet mall, all the wonderful restaurants, and got to spend some very important quality time with my friend. The only sad part was that the gloomy overcast east coast weather decided to follow me. Four out of the five days it was overcast and kinda misty/rainy out. The only day we should have gone to the beach was the day I flew in. But I was jet-lagged and really tired. My smart self decided not to sleep at all the night before the flight and just sleep on the plane that departed at 6am. Which just so you know doesn't work. You cannot have a good nights sleep on a plane. Babies, bumps, and uncomfortable seats keep you up. So needless to say, I was cranky and not feeling well the first day there. So we went to the pool that day, which was a really nice. Pool, burgers, and a scary movie is always good to start a vacation.

My friend did try to plan a trip to the beach for me, though. It was supposed to be a great beach day the next to last day I was there. Deb told me about a great little beach town, Coronado Island, about an hour away. It had a nice beach, good restaurants, and nice shopping. When the day came, it was sunny yet chilly. She watched the weather diligently, hour by hour. It said it was supposed to be a nice sunny day. We wore skirts and tanks, packed magazines and beach towels. We figured we could lay on the beach and relax even if it was too cold to swim. As we drove closer to the town the clouds got thicker and the wind grew stronger. By the time we got to the town, we figured we would eat and maybe the clouds would blow over by the time we were done. So we went to this historic hotel, Hotel Del, which is located right on the beach. We ate a delicious lunch on a covered patio over looking the ocean. Afterward, we walked onto the beach quickly realizing that with the wind, it was simply too cold to lay and relax. The sand was too wicked and that misty rain was falling from the sky. We did take a long leisurely walk in the sand and enjoyed the view. It was beautiful with the rolling waves and horizon that just seemed forever away. I really enjoyed it, even if it wasn't the perfect day beach day I envisioned. After our walk was finished, we went beach town window shopping and got ice cream. It turned out to be a great day. The pacific ocean is beautiful. The waves are high, the sand is smooth and it is just so calming to watch.

Thanks Debs for such a great trip. You really made me feel at home and showed me how great Cali can be.

Oh! The Places You'll Go

This little phrase is so true of my life in the next couple of months. I will be a very busy girl going from one far end to the other. Let me explain, so far I have three trips coming up in the next four months. It is taking a lot of planning, saving, and excitement but it is all coming together in a very surprising way.

Trip #1: San Diego

I'm leaving next week to visit one of my best friends on the other side of the country. Not only do I get to see California, but I get to spend time with a close friend that I don't see very often. The farthest west I've ever been was Vegas. Traveling is a huge passion for me. I want to see as much as possible. Plus, I am even more excited to see my friend. So next week, not only will I be relaxing with a good friend in the sun, but I'll be dipping my toes in the Pacific blue. No more #13.

Trip #2: Cleveland

I know I know, your thinking Cleveland? Who takes a big trip to Cleveland, and how would that fit the list? We'll I actually do like the city. It has an amusement park, a nice downtown, and surprisingly it has the house from the movie, A Christmas Story. Yes, I am driving all the way to Cleveland to go to the house/museum for A Christmas Story. Do I love the movie? Not really. Do I love Christmas that much? It's nice, but not house/museum nice. I am going, because it is my mom and grandma's favorite all time movie. So this small vacation to Cleveland crosses off #21. Now even without the list, I would still be taking my mom and grams to Cleveland. It just worked out nicely. I saw a groupon offered for half off admission and thought a weekend trip for Mother's Day for them might be nice. I'm not exactly rich so this fits in the budget, it's drivable but not too far, and I really think it will be a nice surprise for them.

Trip #3 Italy

Big news, big big news!!! I got the Italy job! I actually will be spending a month in Italy this summer! I don't think I could be anymore excited. I've always wanted to go to Europe, never thought it was possible. But now I won't just be visiting, I'll be living and working there. I'm nervous and excited all at once. I'll be teaching ESL in a summer camp there. I'm ready for the experience. The only part that really scares me is getting there by myself. I'm taking a plane to France and a train to the city I'll be working in. I've seen the movie Taken too many times which is where the nervous feeling come from. But people travel alone there all the time. I figure if I drove from Texas to Pennsylvania by myself, I think I can do this.

Also, several of my wonderful friends are meeting me out there after I'm done working. We will be sightseeing in Italy and France together. So #9 will be crossed off soon. Who would have thought?

 photo credit

#5 Cat Cuddling 101

So I finally was able to start my volunteer experience. After a smashed in window and several reschedules, I made it happen. I'm a cat cuddler. I know this doesn't sound like a strenuous volunteer experience, but I feel I'm still making a difference. And it's a start to volunteering, a step in the right direction. And an enjoyable one at that.

So what is a cat cuddler you may ask? Well, I'm one of the people at the Humane Society that play with the kitties. Basically, I try to make them more social and less fearful so that they look cute and potential adopters will want them. If you have ever adopted from a shelter, you should realize this is important. I know I always tended to stay away from the hissing or hiding kitties and went for the ones with personality. So, socializing the cats will help them feel more comfortable with strangers. Also, I can talk to adopters about the cats and their personalities and match them up to the right kitty. I think this will be a really nice experience.

I knew this was right for me when during orientation I made friends with Teddy Bear. Yes, that is a name for a cat. The volunteer director (Who had questionable hair. Not one to judge, but a rat tail, really?) Wanted us to practice picking up a cat with the scruff and holding the belly. Teddy Bear, an older gray boy, practically leapt into my arms. He nuzzled my neck, purred away, and I just fell in love. Thank god I already have two cats, otherwise this volunteer experience might be trouble. When it was time to put him back in the cage, it was definitely hard. However, he would get adopted I'm sure. Being here was better then being on the street for him. At least he got out to play for a little bit.

I've always been a huge animal lover. Almost wrecking my car a few times to avoid a chipmunk. Feeding the stray cats and even making beds fro them on the porch in the winter. I have always gotten my pets from shelters to try to help. I love cats especially. Probably because that's what I grew up with. My mom was not a dog person, too much work. I like dogs, but not being used to them they make me nervous. So for now, I go a few hours a week to pet, play, and try to sale cute little kitties that are always so happy to see me. It's hard putting them back in the cage at the end of the day, but I know in a small way I'm helping these small creatures find a better home a better way of life.

With the way things are in this crazy world. I think everyone needs a little help. Volunteering is not only a way to give to others, but it makes you feel good too. ( I know how cliche that sounds, but it's a cliche for a reason. It's true!) I know I just started, but I do enjoy going and look forward to it. I definitely plan on expanding on this in the summer, when I do have free time. I would like to try other organizations. There is so much craziness in the world, I feel just a tiny little something you can do can make such a large impact. If your willing to just go for it.

I've included the sight to the Humane Society in case you are interested in donating, volunteering, or even need a new friend for your home. 

http://www.wpahumane.org/

#20: An Unconventional Dance Class

So when a friend said she had a certificate for a dance class, I jumped at the chance to go along. A fun night out with the girls which doesn't happen very often with the cold winter weather. The unique part of this night was that it was not a typical dance class, but a pole dancing class. Yup, I was going to spend my evening bonding with my girls while learning some new stripping moves. This was definitely a great way to cross something off the list!

Fitness with a Twist is a dance studio that offers exercise classes in the form of pole dancing, hip hop, and lap dances. A one of a kind work out that definitely beats the typical pilates and yoga classes I was used to. It sounded like something fun to try, so I was there.

A group of five of us decided to go to their drop in class. This was a simple dance class to learn the basic pole dancing moves. This included 'the walk', a few spins, and some good old booty shaking. Dressed in tanks, shorts, and our bare feet we got onto the dance floor not really knowing what to expect. We gave each other that nervous giggle that girls do. We were all stepping out of our comfort zone.

Our instructor was a perky, smiley twenty-something in a little tank, tiny tight boy-shorts and stilettos. That was inspiring already. If this class can get me skinny enough to wear that, I'm in! She was very nice and encouraging the whole time. The class started with some stretches and then quickly moved on to business, the pole. We started out easy enough with 'the walk'. Yes, there is a specific way to walk around the pole. You must take slow long strides, leaning outward, with a grazing hand that slides up and down your body. I think it's impossible for anyone not to look good doing 'the walk'. My friends and I had to share a pole. So we took turns encouraging each other with some “woo-woos” as we each practiced our walk. I could do this I thought, no big deal, not even much of a work out. Ya, that was before we started the spins.

The instructor told us we were next going to do the fireman spin. Basically, you walk around the pole once, wrap your legs around it and spin your body until your on the ground. It's definitely a little scarey at first. You must be very trusting that there is ground under you and your tush is big enough to land on. ( I did not have a problem with that.) All five of us manged this, laughing and yelling cat calls at each other the whole time. Next, came the fairy spin. A little more advanced, you spin with one leg bent behind you and the other is wrapped around the pole. I have to say, this I mastered. If I can be proud of any of my pole dancing skills, this is what counted for me. I jumped up on that pole, swung my ass around and got myself to spin. Was it graceful, I don't know. But it was kinda fun. Some of the other girls struggled with this. You really need to have trust in your self, some upper arm strength, and the ability to not be afraid to look stupid. (Once again, this is something I'm starting to get good at.) The last spin was the forward hook. This was not happening. Both arms on the pole and both legs bent behind you. We did not look graceful and we realized quickly this could never be an occupation for us. We fell over and over again. But we did at least try it. In fact, we tried every move. Finally ending with the proper way to shake the booty. Which if your wondering is to keep the knees very very slightly bent, isolate the hip muscles, and shake only the butt side to side to create a jiggle. Watching my butt in the mirror, I feel I did pretty well at this too. Finally, the class was over with one finally show. The disco ball came down, lights darkened, and the music turned up. We walked in a line and went to each pole (there were about 8) and did a move. It was very motivating and we showed off what we learned to the class.

All in all, it was the best exercise/dance class I ever had. We couldn't stop smiling, proud of our out of the box experience. We were drenched in well earned sweet, and we had a great time together in a very comfortable atmosphere. I would definitely recommend this for a fun girls night out or even as a regularly workout. I woke up with sore muscles all over and just a little more comfortable in my own skin.

#5 Needs a Raincheck

So I had Wednesday all perfectly planned out. I was going to begin #5, volunteering. I had the idea of working at the Humane Society a few blocks from where I work. I've always been a lover of animals, growing up with mostly cats but a few birds, fish, and even an iguana too. (Not all at the same time, of course.) I have two cats now, and I always swore that if I get a house I would add a dog to the mix. So this type of volunteer work seemed like a good fit.

Well, Wednesday came and I went to work. The orientation to the Humane Society wasn't until the evening, so a friend agreed to meet me for dinner beforehand. I had suggested staying in the neighborhood so that I didn't have to worry about being late to the orientation. I left my car in front of my work, and we drove her car to the restaurant. We had a really nice time eating and catching up on our lives. Afterward, she took me back to my car and that’s when I saw it.

My front passenger side window was smashed in. There was shards of glass over the two front seats and floor. Nothing was left of the window. I was shocked and stunned for a minute not even knowing what to do. I had never had this happen and it made me nervous and a little thrown back. My friend, Nikki, thankfully had her wits about her. She came over and after she saw what had happened, she told me to check what was missing. I looked threw the different compartments. Opening and closing drawers and looking around, I didn't see anything missing at first. Until, I remembered my GPS was on the floor. The only thing they took was an old outdated GPS that was laying on my passenger side floor. We went back to her car, I called my parents first and then the police. The officer, was very nice about it all and explained that this happens a good bit. A lot of times it happens for a lot less like loose change in a cup holder, a jacket thrown on the back seat, a few Cd’s laying around. Considering I had a bag of laundry and an extra coat in the backseat with a CD holder filled, I guess it could have been worse. He was honest and said that they really couldn't do anything, and with a 500 dollar deductible the insurance wouldn't be much help either. Nikki asked if we would ever get the GPS back. The officer said it would probably be sold on the street for 5-10 dollars! So there I was in shock and out hundreds of dollars because I left my stupid GPS out. I would have given the robber the 10 bucks if it meant not going throw this!

So I left the scene of the crime and went straight to my dad's house. Now I didn't really grow up with my dad, but over the past few years we've been rebuilding our relationship. So, it was really great to have him help me with this. He covered my window with plastic, found the number for a repair service, and offered to help me pay for it. This really meant a lot considering I'm usually overly independent. But with this I was so shaken up, I simply was appreciative and thankful.

So here it is the next day. I took the day off of work to get my car fixed. I emailed the Humane Society to reschedule orientation. And I have now learned to never leave anything in my car ever. Please learn from my mistakes too. Trust me, it's not worth the aggravation, the money, or the unease you feel from being robbed. It wasn't the GPS that bothered me. It was the fact that someone broke into my car so easily. It's scary and very unnerving.

Progress

Over the next couple of months, I feel a lot of exciting things will be happening for me to blog about. So, I just wanted to update you and give you some sneak peaks on what is happening.

I completed the paper part of my application for the summer camp Italy job. It was accepted, and now I move onto the next part of the application process, the distant learning course. If I do well on this, I might just have a job in Italy this summer. Trying not to get my hopes up, but I do really want this.

My sister and I have started to train for the Race for the Cure 5k. It's nice that she's doing this with me. Any cancer related charities are always important to both us considering a considerable amount of our family has been affected by this. Also, it gives us a goal to help us get in shape. Our plan is to add a mile each month to our running routine. It's very sad how out of shape we both our, but it's fun having a workout partner. Let me tell you, I do not need a personal trainer with her. She is like a drill sergeant. I think we're done at 2 reps on the crunches, and she has us do 2 more. But it's good because I tend not to push myself enough.

As for volunteering, I have an orientation this week with the Humane Society. I love animals, and it's close to my work. I think this is something I'll really enjoy.

My friend K asked me to do a pole dancing class with her and some other girls. Definitely out of my element, which means it's something I have to try.

And lastly, I will be visiting a friend in April in San Diego. Pacific ocean here I come.

I'm excited about all the upcoming events. Some I've planned and others just fell nicely in place. It feels good to start accomplishing some goals, and I think if I complete this list I will have learned about myself and what I'm really capable of.

#3, Skydiving, Bought and Paid For

It's going to happen. The ticket has been bought and paid for. I have a good friend on board and a deadline is set. Within one year, I'll be jumping out of a plane with a man and a parachute strapped to my back. Am I scared? Terrified! This is the girl who not only gets scared on the little kid's parachute ride at an amusement park, but also hates ski lifts and not a huge fan of top floors. But it's on the list, so I'm doing it. 

Why would I put it on my list you ask? Well, I don't like being afraid of things. I don't like the fact that something as simple as fear will stop me from trying new things and enjoying my life. Skydiving seems like a good way of facing this fear, even if it is a little extreme. Also, it is something me and my friend J have talked about doing for a long time.

J is one of my oldest and best friends. It's kinda funny that although she is probably one of my most logical friends, she is also the friend that is there when I do crazy or stupid stuff. She never judges, but she always has the first aid kit or Kleenex box ready. Like when I decided to pierce my tongue to celebrate passing algebra with a C; she had the ice bags already made up in the freezer. When I decided to drive cross country alone; she was my midway stop with food and coffee ready. This is why I was so excited that she wanted to do this with me. I'll be scared and nervous. But with my best friend with me, I'm sure it will make it easier.

#19 A Date with Myself

     So after a crazy busy holiday full of family and friends, I was a little drained. I had spent literally every night for almost two straight weeks out. I know I'm very lucky to have so many wonderful people in my life. People who want to spend time with me, and who I love hanging out with. However, I was a little bit tired and had started to miss a very important person in my life, myself. Over the years, I have realized a few things about myself. One such thing is that although I prefer to be out with people; I do need some alone time to recharge. During this past week that's exactly what I planned, a little one on one with me. With this in mind, I figured this was the perfect time to complete #19, see a movie alone.

      Now I find nothing wrong with people who go to movies and restaurants by themselves. In fact, I think my friends who do this are very confident and self-assured. Traits that I'm striving for in myself. However, I myself am always worried about how I look to others, and what people are thinking of me. I thought I would worry that people might pity or think strangely of me. But, I put this on my list for a reason. I wanted to have more confidence and be more secure with my own self.

      So last Wednesday I planned a date for myself. I marked it in my calendar and even turned down plans with a friend. All this to make some much needed time for myself. It started with a little apartment shopping (working on #22), and then treating myself to some dinner at Panera Bread. I then walked across the street to the large multiplex. My heart was starting to race a little and I felt a little weary asking for a ticket for one, but the man behind the booth didn't seem startled. He took my money, handed me my ticket, and I moved along. I thought, this was easy and not nearly what I worked up in my mind. Still the bigger challenge was up head, sitting in the movie alone. I walked into the theater, of course anxious, found a seat and looked around. Not very crowded, mostly couples and one other byselfer (don't really want to call us loners). I started to relax and really enjoy myself. I mean seriously I had both armrests to myself, got to sit where I wanted, see the movie I wanted, and as a bonus not worry about people talking during the show.

      Then as my favorite part started, the previews, two cute boys decided to walk in and sat right in front of me. At first, I felt mortified. Here I am with no friends, sitting by myself in a theater with two cute guys a few feet in front.. They glanced back a couple of times. This only made me feel more insecure and stupid. But I started to think how I was actually having a nice time. Then I realized how stupid and immature I was being and strangely I started to relax. Who cares what they think of me. I was actually having a good afternoon. I had good food, great shopping, and now I was seeing a movie I really wanted to see. I simply stopped caring. Well, honestly, for the most part I stopped caring. I mean there were still two cute boys in front of me who turned around a few times glancing at me (in retrospect, maybe I should have struck up a conversation). All in all, though, I did enjoy myself.

       So now I know, spending time with yourself outside of the house not so scary. It can even be fun. Now would I choose to see a movie alone instead of with friends, probably not. I still really enjoy being with other people. Nevertheless, if a movie comes out that no one wants to see, I'm there with one of my favorite friends, myself.

      Oh by the way the movie, Black Swan pretty good. A very dark thoughtful movie. If those are your type of movies, go see it. If not, you may want to rent it. Natalie Portman was excellent. So number 19 complete! I had a great date all by myself.