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Friday, December 16, 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
My Trip to California
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
I woke early 3:30 to be exact for my last walk with Buddy, my dog. I then got all of my things and drove over by Debi’s and found that both Debi and Mike were taking me to the airport. That was great since we had such a wonderful time talking on the way. At the airport I got the Sky Hop to check me in and saw my luggage was going to Cincinnati and then on to San Francisco. Security is always an issue and this was no exception but I was through in no time and arrived at my gate to sit for 5 minutes and say hi to the man next to me. Interesting enough he was the one that I sat next to on the plane.
We had a tiny plane, so tiny, that our luggage had to go underneath and we got another ticket to pick it up upon landing. The flight was great with Mike talking the whole way. I think I might have liked to nap, but knew, all was meant to be. When arriving in Cincinnati we were a bit early which was good, since most had connecting flights. I didn’t realize until I started to txt my e-mails, that my extended battery didn’t have juice. I needed to make sure my phone still had charge so I could find Julie’s boyfriend Mason at the other end. I wouldn’t be able to enjoy my book so knew there were other plans for me. I found there was a spare seat between me and a lady, who didn’t like to talk, so I was able to nap and just meditate. It was great and I was thinking of wonderful time I’d have with Julie.
It sure was a good thing that I got some rest. Mason found me just before my luggage did and we walked a ways to his car. We then made our way into the city to meet Julie for lunch. It is amazing how quickly one can cross the country especially when traveling backwards in time. It was so great to see Julie especially on the 25 floor of 4 Embarcadero and where I could look out across San Francisco and see not only the bay bridge with Treasure Island and then across to the Golden Gate. I took many pictures since I’ve never seen SF in such a grand manor. Julie took us downstairs to a great place and said the lamb burger was wonderful. I, of course, had to try. It was great but very filling and rich. I then decided I would eat a little of everything Julie would like to show me, experiencing it just as she does. How grand is it to be able to have my daughter want to show me her life and for me to be able to share it with her.
Julie went back to work and Mason & I went over to the pier, more pictures, including the huge pumpkin and soon it was time that Julie could leave. Mason’s cheap parking cost $21 instead of the $7.50 he thought so that was interesting. We went back to Julie’s with me taking a nap. Julie discovered she had left a prescription that she just bought at the pharmacy so she and Mason went back to retrieve it and I got some rest. Julie got back and we both slept some more. It was great to hug and kiss my daughter’s forehead, though being 36, still feels as though she was just born. I never realized how much I miss her and how much she loves me until this trip and I could really see her life and what great a person she is. She got to know me more to and I did tell her that if I ever go into assisted living I’d come and be by her since I’d want her to visit me.
Around 6 we got up hungry, so Julie took us to her favorite pizza place. It was great with a thin cornmeal crust. I found that SF is a healthy eating place and Julie doesn’t cook so I knew I’d be eating out a lot. I was really glad I brought my Shakeology drink so I’d at least get good nutriments. I vowed to walk as much as I could and enjoy every minute with Julie. After eating I now wanted to walk so we took a walk up to a dog park on top of a hill close to Julie and enjoyed looking at the city at night. There was no fog so we could see this great city. I took more pictures.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Julie was off, I woke to an earthquake though I thought it was the cat jumping around and that’s how SF feels about them. They feel them, acknowledge them and just know they had one. I did get up earlier than Julie and did my usual writing to Christian and for the thought of the day. It was 6 for me but 9 back East. It’s difficult to think of the time being different. I now understand why Julie has difficulty getting a hold of me since by the time she has a spare moment, my day is done. We went out and got breakfast. A great little place that was very small but very good. Julie taught me that I needed to dress in layers. She had shed down to her tank top but wasn’t as comfortable doing that so didn’t go that far. Outside it was brisk but we knew it would get warmer and colder during the day. Everyone in SF dresses that way. Everyone carries a bag to store things they might need on their journey.
Julie and I went back to the car. Mind you it’s very difficult to find parking spaces which you’ll see later in the story. We took the car to the Golden Gate Bridge. We both wanted to walk though didn’t want to pay for parking so found a nice secluded place not far and enjoyed our wonderful walk. We walked half way across taking great pictures except that I kept taking pictures wanting cars on the bridge and when I shot the pictures the cars disappeared. I found that very interesting. On the way back we stopped at the gift shop and I got a GGB golf ball. It’s very cute and a nice remembrance. Jason started my collection of golf balls on our cruise getting me some from Belize.
Julie wanted to do something else like visiting Alcatraz. I know she was showing me a great time and what I always did for her, keeping busy all of the time. I could see that she was tired and I was too. After looking online and seeing that the last boat left a minute before, I felt I had done enough for the day and could see that Julie had enough too. We rested instead and I found that I could golf the next Monday so called and set it up. The afternoon was perfect since there was a tournament in the morning.
After our nap Julie and I went for another wonderful walk in Golden Gate Park. We walked through the Pan Handle and found the wonderful flowers that you see in the pictures. Also more tree pictures since I so love and felt the wonderful grand trees. I don’t know many of their names but know and grew up with the Eucalyptus. It amazes me how I connected so much with the wonderful earth of SF. Growing up I never felt comfortable in SF since it was the bad city as my parents had taught me. I went there but only to specific places to eat, Ghirardelli Square, Pier 39 etc. It was so wonderful to connect with the wonderful places that Julie loves. I can now enjoy this wonderful city but Julie told me to stay out of the tenderloin district and I will always abide by her instructions.
After walking through Height & Ashbury visiting Julie’s shopping places and meeting a friend of Julie’s, who was in her show, I discovered that I would be taking Allison to the show the next night since she didn’t have a ride and the show couldn’t go on without her. I was a bit scared though wouldn’t admit it to Julie and had instructions on where to park etc. None of which I abided by though will tell you about that in tomorrow’s report.
On our way back to the house we stopped at an Ethiopian restaurant and enjoyed a complete protein bread which was wonderful with the meal. I remembered what I didn’t like about the west coast which was service was very slow. It got to the point where Julie had to get the tab and almost asked where our food was. I so enjoy the faster pace of the east coast though I now also enjoy the wonderful city of SF.
Arriving home still early and since Julie doesn’t have TV service we watched a great movie of which Julie has all of her favorites and is quite happy not to be exposed to all of the negativity of the TV. It’s very cool.
Friday, October 28, 2011
I got up early doing my usual writing and then crawled back into bed beside my beautiful daughter. I do miss having a king size bed to myself but I sure do love being with Julie and experiencing her life. Waking we dressed and went clear to South SF to experience bagzien’s which is a pastry that is served for breakfast. They are very good and I’m sure not on any diet. I loved experiencing all of the things that Julie enjoys. After breakfast we went shopping and first found Ross’s which is my favorite place since there are such great deals. Julie found 2 pair of boots and 2 purses. I didn’t see anything I wanted which was ok too. Mason called saying he was getting off at 2 so Julie and I headed back to the house. We picked up burritos for dinner with Julie and Mason going out to the show early and I got to take a nap. After getting up I was also able to walk for an hour which was fun too.
I drove up on Height street close to Allison and found a great parking space. I couldn’t remember exactly where she was so called her and she said to look for the big legs on top of the building. Very easy to spot and didn’t see them when I was walking the night before. Sure enough there were the legs that stuck outside the shop she worked at. I was able to pick her up and get to the show by 7:30. We walked right in and went up to the dressing room. Julie had my stuff up there and I dressed to get wet. This was a gory show with the key element being that fake or red colored water was sprayed through the show. Julie wanted me to experience this from the front row. I got my swim cap on with goggles a poncho with clothes that didn’t matter if red covered them. I also had a complete outfit to change back into. The squirting guys were thrilled that I was in the audience but didn’t realize I was Julie’s mom and told her how this great lady was in the front row and they were going to make a target of me. Julie informed them that was her Mother and not to hit me at all. They promised not to make me a target but I was in the front row so still got wet.
I’m so glad that I was able to experience Julie, being the lead in the show, from the front row though I must say it didn’t help when my goggles fogged up. It was so grand to sit there and hear how good she was from those around me. I didn’t say anything but felt like a proud peacock spreading my wings knowing my daughter was well liked and good at what she loves. I’m now so glad that when she first asked me if she should pursue acting I said, why not?
After the show I changed and hung around but I was tired and soon asked Julie how to get home. She gave me directions but on the road I got turned around not knowing the city. I had to ask for directions from Julie and finally found myself finding a parking spot. There weren’t any and I kept going around and around further and further out. I finally found a parking spot about 16 blocks away and decided I wasn’t going to drive again. It would go with Julie or take mass transit, this parking was for the birds. I txt Julie that I finally was home and she was quite curious that it took so long to park and after asking her, she said she just double parked for a while, and then looked again. All in all it was a grand day and I experienced Julie’s show just as she wanted me to experience it.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
I woke for my usual writing and then retrieved the car finding a much closer place to park. There are bars close by so after 2 is a great time to find parking. When I got back Julie was already getting up and we went for a nice breakfast. Mason, Julie’s boyfriend had to leave for his Dicken’s Faire practice, Julie skipping again since she couldn’t speak needing to rest her voice for her last show. Tonight I’m taking pictures and not experiencing the wet part of it. We went off in search of cardboard boxes so there would be enough to cover the floor of the theater. We had a great day and rested in the afternoon making sure we’d be fresh for the night. Julie uses a lot of energy when there’s a Friday night and Saturday night show. I left with Mason & Julie and we found plenty of parking since we were so early. I went off on my own while they worked on getting the theater ready and found a wonderful Sushi place but needed to wait ½ hour before it opened for dinner. I took some shots of me and the surrounding area that has changed for the better and now one of the in places to live. Interesting how things change in a few years time.
I went back to the theater and found Julie. She found me a place way up in the control booth so that I could be away from any flying blood. I did have good clothes on and really didn’t want to get them red. It again was a great show and now you can see the pictures with Julie. It’s Called ShEvil Dead which is a spoof of Evil Dead movies, all 3. I watched one and it was enough for me to get the gist and enjoy it. I’m not into gory movies unless my daughter stars in them. Strange, how I changed when Julie is the star.
I came back home with Julie’s friends and it was great to not drive or look for parking. I learned that lesson very well. I was just going to bed when Julie got home with again not going out. I think Julie wanted to be with me? But also her voice though worked well during the show was shot again and she needed to rest.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
I was up and took a walk but found when I returned that Julie was up and ready to go out for breakfast. I also discovered that I had left my sweetener at the one in South SF. I called and they had it so knew I’d go get it on Monday while Julie was working. Julie and I headed out to Napa over the Golden Gate so I could pass through Sonoma and then on to Napa to visit my Aunt Fredi & Uncle Ethan. My cousin Larry, his wife Bev, Cousin Jon Paul, his wife Gale, with their families were all there. It was a grand reunion. We had difficulty finding our way since they put an outlet store on the path that I used to take. Maps on my iPhone saved the day. We had a grand time though I didn’t take any pictures. Aunt Fredi is 84 and Uncle Ethan complained that he only put 5900 miles on his car in the last 6 months. He’ll be 88 in December. He looks and acts 70, no more. Auntie though is rather frail and forgets things. Amazing how they’ve stayed together all of these years. We had fun reminiscing of all the old times.
We finally left about 6 p.m. since Larry, being in Real Estate, still had work to do and Julie needed to stop in Vallejo to see a friend and try on outfits for the Dickens fair which started the last week of November. My iPhone maps found us the way. Technology is really great. We decided not to go by Julie’s old place since it was later and we were both tired with Julie had work in the morning.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Julie was up before me this morning and I slept in. The cat found its way up by me and almost pushed me out of bed though I finally pushed him over. I was off, taking Julie’s car to get my bag of sweetener and have a great breakfast though I didn’t get the pastry but a wonderful omelet. I came back and found parking, easily since it wasn’t evening. Carey, Julie’s roommate, showed me how to catch the bus to Lincoln Park. I was off to play golf.
The bus drivers are so cool and helped me by telling me where to go after I got off the bus. You’ll see the bus with the swivel in the middle. They have very long busses that bend so they can make it around the corners. Lincoln Park was wonderful.
I got there a little early and there was a tournament playing so I needed to wait. It wasn’t long and I had my clubs and was off playing golf. I was surprised that the Tee’s weren’t marked very well and sometimes I had to hunt though I eventually found them. There wasn’t anyone ahead of me and a man and son behind that didn’t want to join me so I just enjoyed a pretty good game of golf. It was warm though the fog had rolled in and I could only see the top of the Golden Gate Bridge. It was quite interesting crossing over the road and playing on the cliff for 4 holes. Quite hilly and glad I was in good shape since I was walking.
I got to the 16th hole and had to wait for those ahead in the tournament and I could see it would take quite a bit of time so asked how to get back to the club house. I had enough and was ready to go home. I went down the 13th hole again played with a guy and putted in a 15 footer which really felt good and came on back home to Julie’s. I must say I do love playing golf.
I got home just before Julie and enjoyed going to practice with her. It was quite interesting to see her put her Base on her back and just walk right to the car. She had it all worked out how it fit into it into her Mustang and we were off to her practice. We were to eat there since Maya always got food and did again except that it never came. Well at least until I was so starved I ate a croissant while waiting. I had played golf and was really, really hungry. The food came and I was so glad. I was very tired when we got home and was glad to crash.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
I woke tired and with a headache, after writing I fell back asleep not waking until 11. I felt so much better and ready for another wonderful day. I’m so grateful that I took 2 weeks instead of 1. I was off to the botanical gardens in the Golden Gate Park. I talked to Carey, asking how to get a bus from there to downtown and Julie since I needed to be down by her when she got off at 4. Carey is the queen of mass transit.
I walked around and found the botanical gardens and really enjoyed them though there weren’t as many flowers as I thought there would be but then it’s almost winter, so I shouldn’t have expected them. Do look at the flower pictures. I walked around a bit, but about 2:30 I decided that I needed to head toward the side of the park and find my way down to Julie. I walked through Stow Lake, more pictures especially of birds and turtles that didn’t move and really enjoyed me taking pictures of them. It amazes me how creatures get so used to their environment that they learn to enjoy us humans.
I found my way to the edge of the park and low and behold there was a bus stop. I again asked someone there if there was food around and they said no, so I decided I’d get food down by Julie while I waited for her. The bus driver again told me how to go and before I knew it I was in front of Julie’s building. I found a Taco Bell, with Julie reprimanding me, since there were much better places to eat Mexican, but I was satisfied and able to wait until we went out to Julie’s friend Carey’s from her childhood. We took BART and had a nice ride out. We did have to stand for a bit but soon we were able to sit.
Carrie picked us up and took her to her home in Dublin. We had a wonderful meal and enjoyed spending time with Carrie and her family. See Pictures. It took time to get home but it was a wonderful day.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
This was a very interesting day. Julie went to work and I was off to find the Victorian house tour. I arrived down close to it though I didn’t see Sacks Fifth Avenue. I asked a few people but they were all tourists and didn’t know either with some not even speaking very good English. I finally went into a store and low and behold it was right ahead. Lol. It’s always interesting to me to see how unobservant I can be. I wasn’t sure where to wait and found a wonderful tourist that was just lunching and talked to him a bit. Ray was from Australia. He’s coming back to NYC so maybe he’ll contact me. It’s so fun just to enjoy new people.
The tour finally came with Jay being a great tour guide. We hopped on a bus and went over to the Queen Anne Hotel which used to be an all girls school. More pictures here and during the tour. It ended up on Union street and I chose Jay’s favorite place to grab a sandwich. I found the way home from the waiter telling how to catch the one bus up the hill and get the next one that would take me back to Julie. I arrived back at the house just as Julie was coming in. How cool was that?
Maya picked us up and we went to the Mission district to where our gig was. They were playing in a burlesque show which was very interesting. I also found it interesting that Julie knew it would be ok with me. It is, though not what I choose today. I of course, wanted to hear and experience all of Julie’s gigs. We had burritos for dinner and then back to the show. Mason, Julie’s boyfriend showed up just in time for the show.
After the show Julie, Mason and I went for a walk to see the Day of the Dead which was quite interesting with elegant people all ghostly looking. Only a couple pictures. Everyone remembered their loved ones with notes and candles. It was very cool to see.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Julie’s off again, how great is that. I so love being with her and though Mason had issues the night before all is well today. I’m glad. We went down Height street and had breakfast. We were on our way to Golden Gate Park and the Academy of Sciences Museum and it started to rain. Mason was so great and went and got umbrellas for us and then of course, it quit raining.
We arrived at the perfect time to the Museum. We were ushered into the planetarium where they had a grand video which covered the dome ceiling which was better than 3D. It was very cool. Everywhere we went we were in perfect timing, I so enjoyed the feeding of the fish. Many pictures of fish. We spent most of the day there. We hurried when we got back to get ready to travel to Mason’s place and Tahoe for the weekend. First we were going to Berkley to see Rick, Julie’s old boyfriend and now great friend’s band.
Before stopping there we were hungry and found a great Thai place. We arrived about at the art show where the band was playing about ½ before it was over so I’d say perfect timing once again. It was interesting since they were background music which I think they’re better performing when people stop and listen. It was all fun and son we were back in Vallejo at Masons. Julie and Mason again had me take the bed which was so very sweet and they slept on the mattress. Rick, Julie’s ex and still good friend came down and we had fun talking. I hadn’t seen him since he now has a baby.
I was quite tired and really ready for a wonderful sleep.
Friday, November 4, 2011
I awoke quite abruptly this morning since Mason lives underneath the rest of the apartments. It was 8 a.m. but felt like earlier. Rick came down with Clara Mae, his daughter and we had a lot of fun talking and playing. Julie and Rick’s dog Miles Davis enjoyed destroying the cute toy that Julie had bought for him. Packing everything up wasn’t too hard since we just moved everything back to the car for our trip up to Tahoe. We, Julie, Mason and I went to a great place in Vallejo downtown to eat. I was shocked to see how deserted downtown was since the naval ship yard had closed. It was quite unnerving to see things from my past so deteriorated.
It was a great trip. I got to see Fairfield, lived there, Vacaville, parents lived there, and along the stretch after Davis where so many accidents happen because of the fog. Sacramento looked the same though I didn’t get to see the side that’s changed. Soon we were up highway 50 and at Apple Hill. It was a great place and they had great cider. Picture of Julie and Mason drinking some. Great view of lake and overlooking the hills below.
I love highway 50 since it’s so windy and fun. It snowed and Julie took pictures of the snow but it didn’t interest me since it was just trees with snow on them like we see every day in the winter. Snow is new to Julie and she does get excited which was fun to see. It was early afternoon when we arrived at Mason’s mom’s house which will be our station for the next few days. We got the house warming, being only 23 outside and we were off to the store. I was going to cook and it would be fun. We had picked up some beans at Apple Hill and the directions said 3 hours to cook, they seemed to take 3 days. I got artichokes great big huge ones that looked wonderful and chicken breast strips for our meat.
I put the artichokes on and the beans on and then 1 hour later put the chicken in. The artichokes took longer since we were at such a high altitude and they were so huge, so the chicken and artichokes got finished but the beans weren’t anywhere near getting done. We had a good meal without the beans and kept on cooking them until bedtime.
It was great to have a piano to play and though I didn’t have music I did enjoy playing with Julie. Mason took pictures and posted them in Facebook.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
It is a grand day. My cousin Curtis and his partner James came over and I cooked breakfast, good potatoes fried and crispy, a veggie scramble, and bacon. We all had a great time with Curtis and James showing us their pictures. They take wonderful ones and rented a 10,000 lens and went on a wonderful trip with professional photographers in Alaska. It was awesome and I’m so glad I reconnected with them. The beans are still cooking not yet done.
We then went over to Carson city Nevada to see Julie’s cousin Jim and Susan. They were so much fun. Jim is the split image of his father and just as great with his kids. Most are pretty grown except for their youngest son which they adopted from Susan’s sister. We left pretty late and decided to go back home since it was always nice to sleep in one’s own bed. Getting home we cooked the beans some more and now are almost done.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Getting up we found that the beans are now done and we had them for breakfast. Julie just loved them and so did I. We decided to go to see Heavenly valley, a place where I used to ski, though now it’s enclosed in a whole different way. We found that the gondola that we would take to the top was closed for maintenance and wouldn’t open until November 18th. A little late since we were leaving for SF tomorrow. We walked around the lake with a few pictures and enjoyed the crisp air. We did find that there was live music at one place latter so we went back home and took a nap.
We got up later and had Sushi then went over to the bar where the guitarist was and we had a lot of fun. I was the designated drive so felt great not caring how much the kids drank.
On the drive home, it was snowing and I was glad that I had experience in the snow. Julie got excited when the car’s tires skidded a bit but all was well and we arrived home safely. We really enjoyed the beans now since they were fully cooked.
Monday, November 7, 2011
We ate at a great little restaurant where Mason’s Mom wanted us to eat. It was really good and then we were on our way. We’re headed back home over the same trail we came out and stopping in Sacramento to see Julie’s God Mother, May. She’s been a great friend for a long time though we don’t speak any more being on opposite sides of the US. While waiting for her we found a great 2nd hand book store where we found some great books.
May was fun though talked and talked. 2 hours later I decided we needed to go and Julie was most appreciative since May would have continued for a few more hours.
We stopped over by Old Sac getting out and walking around. Many things had changed and some not at all. I was so glad to see the old and new still coming together. I do love connecting with the wonderful earth.
We arrived back in SF around 6 with Mason and Julie wanting to go to the movies. The only one I wanted to see was Puss n Boots in 3D. They decided that would be a good one to see too so off we went downtown. I so love the busses. 2 dollars for everywhere and with the transfer I’ve always got back without paying any more. Julie and Mason have their passes so not needed at all.
The movie was great going across the street before with the kids getting a beer and then we got some popcorn for the movie. The movie was great and we all really enjoyed it. I think the kids would have taken a cab back but a little walk and we were back at the bus stop just as the bus came. We were home very soon. I love mass transit especially when the buses come as often as they do in SF.
Tuesday November 8, 2011
It’s time to head home. Very sad but I’m glad too. I do love being with Julie but I also love coming back to my place. It was a grand vacation and returning home is wonderful.
Debi and Mike picked me up but I found that my car’s battery had died so tomorrow I’ll deal with it. AAA is the best way to go and I’m so glad to be home and in my own bed.
Such a grand and wonderful vacation. I hope to do it again next year.
I woke early 3:30 to be exact for my last walk with Buddy, my dog. I then got all of my things and drove over by Debi’s and found that both Debi and Mike were taking me to the airport. That was great since we had such a wonderful time talking on the way. At the airport I got the Sky Hop to check me in and saw my luggage was going to Cincinnati and then on to San Francisco. Security is always an issue and this was no exception but I was through in no time and arrived at my gate to sit for 5 minutes and say hi to the man next to me. Interesting enough he was the one that I sat next to on the plane.
We had a tiny plane, so tiny, that our luggage had to go underneath and we got another ticket to pick it up upon landing. The flight was great with Mike talking the whole way. I think I might have liked to nap, but knew, all was meant to be. When arriving in Cincinnati we were a bit early which was good, since most had connecting flights. I didn’t realize until I started to txt my e-mails, that my extended battery didn’t have juice. I needed to make sure my phone still had charge so I could find Julie’s boyfriend Mason at the other end. I wouldn’t be able to enjoy my book so knew there were other plans for me. I found there was a spare seat between me and a lady, who didn’t like to talk, so I was able to nap and just meditate. It was great and I was thinking of wonderful time I’d have with Julie.
It sure was a good thing that I got some rest. Mason found me just before my luggage did and we walked a ways to his car. We then made our way into the city to meet Julie for lunch. It is amazing how quickly one can cross the country especially when traveling backwards in time. It was so great to see Julie especially on the 25 floor of 4 Embarcadero and where I could look out across San Francisco and see not only the bay bridge with Treasure Island and then across to the Golden Gate. I took many pictures since I’ve never seen SF in such a grand manor. Julie took us downstairs to a great place and said the lamb burger was wonderful. I, of course, had to try. It was great but very filling and rich. I then decided I would eat a little of everything Julie would like to show me, experiencing it just as she does. How grand is it to be able to have my daughter want to show me her life and for me to be able to share it with her.
Julie went back to work and Mason & I went over to the pier, more pictures, including the huge pumpkin and soon it was time that Julie could leave. Mason’s cheap parking cost $21 instead of the $7.50 he thought so that was interesting. We went back to Julie’s with me taking a nap. Julie discovered she had left a prescription that she just bought at the pharmacy so she and Mason went back to retrieve it and I got some rest. Julie got back and we both slept some more. It was great to hug and kiss my daughter’s forehead, though being 36, still feels as though she was just born. I never realized how much I miss her and how much she loves me until this trip and I could really see her life and what great a person she is. She got to know me more to and I did tell her that if I ever go into assisted living I’d come and be by her since I’d want her to visit me.
Around 6 we got up hungry, so Julie took us to her favorite pizza place. It was great with a thin cornmeal crust. I found that SF is a healthy eating place and Julie doesn’t cook so I knew I’d be eating out a lot. I was really glad I brought my Shakeology drink so I’d at least get good nutriments. I vowed to walk as much as I could and enjoy every minute with Julie. After eating I now wanted to walk so we took a walk up to a dog park on top of a hill close to Julie and enjoyed looking at the city at night. There was no fog so we could see this great city. I took more pictures.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Julie was off, I woke to an earthquake though I thought it was the cat jumping around and that’s how SF feels about them. They feel them, acknowledge them and just know they had one. I did get up earlier than Julie and did my usual writing to Christian and for the thought of the day. It was 6 for me but 9 back East. It’s difficult to think of the time being different. I now understand why Julie has difficulty getting a hold of me since by the time she has a spare moment, my day is done. We went out and got breakfast. A great little place that was very small but very good. Julie taught me that I needed to dress in layers. She had shed down to her tank top but wasn’t as comfortable doing that so didn’t go that far. Outside it was brisk but we knew it would get warmer and colder during the day. Everyone in SF dresses that way. Everyone carries a bag to store things they might need on their journey.
Julie and I went back to the car. Mind you it’s very difficult to find parking spaces which you’ll see later in the story. We took the car to the Golden Gate Bridge. We both wanted to walk though didn’t want to pay for parking so found a nice secluded place not far and enjoyed our wonderful walk. We walked half way across taking great pictures except that I kept taking pictures wanting cars on the bridge and when I shot the pictures the cars disappeared. I found that very interesting. On the way back we stopped at the gift shop and I got a GGB golf ball. It’s very cute and a nice remembrance. Jason started my collection of golf balls on our cruise getting me some from Belize.
Julie wanted to do something else like visiting Alcatraz. I know she was showing me a great time and what I always did for her, keeping busy all of the time. I could see that she was tired and I was too. After looking online and seeing that the last boat left a minute before, I felt I had done enough for the day and could see that Julie had enough too. We rested instead and I found that I could golf the next Monday so called and set it up. The afternoon was perfect since there was a tournament in the morning.
After our nap Julie and I went for another wonderful walk in Golden Gate Park. We walked through the Pan Handle and found the wonderful flowers that you see in the pictures. Also more tree pictures since I so love and felt the wonderful grand trees. I don’t know many of their names but know and grew up with the Eucalyptus. It amazes me how I connected so much with the wonderful earth of SF. Growing up I never felt comfortable in SF since it was the bad city as my parents had taught me. I went there but only to specific places to eat, Ghirardelli Square, Pier 39 etc. It was so wonderful to connect with the wonderful places that Julie loves. I can now enjoy this wonderful city but Julie told me to stay out of the tenderloin district and I will always abide by her instructions.
After walking through Height & Ashbury visiting Julie’s shopping places and meeting a friend of Julie’s, who was in her show, I discovered that I would be taking Allison to the show the next night since she didn’t have a ride and the show couldn’t go on without her. I was a bit scared though wouldn’t admit it to Julie and had instructions on where to park etc. None of which I abided by though will tell you about that in tomorrow’s report.
On our way back to the house we stopped at an Ethiopian restaurant and enjoyed a complete protein bread which was wonderful with the meal. I remembered what I didn’t like about the west coast which was service was very slow. It got to the point where Julie had to get the tab and almost asked where our food was. I so enjoy the faster pace of the east coast though I now also enjoy the wonderful city of SF.
Arriving home still early and since Julie doesn’t have TV service we watched a great movie of which Julie has all of her favorites and is quite happy not to be exposed to all of the negativity of the TV. It’s very cool.
Friday, October 28, 2011
I got up early doing my usual writing and then crawled back into bed beside my beautiful daughter. I do miss having a king size bed to myself but I sure do love being with Julie and experiencing her life. Waking we dressed and went clear to South SF to experience bagzien’s which is a pastry that is served for breakfast. They are very good and I’m sure not on any diet. I loved experiencing all of the things that Julie enjoys. After breakfast we went shopping and first found Ross’s which is my favorite place since there are such great deals. Julie found 2 pair of boots and 2 purses. I didn’t see anything I wanted which was ok too. Mason called saying he was getting off at 2 so Julie and I headed back to the house. We picked up burritos for dinner with Julie and Mason going out to the show early and I got to take a nap. After getting up I was also able to walk for an hour which was fun too.
I drove up on Height street close to Allison and found a great parking space. I couldn’t remember exactly where she was so called her and she said to look for the big legs on top of the building. Very easy to spot and didn’t see them when I was walking the night before. Sure enough there were the legs that stuck outside the shop she worked at. I was able to pick her up and get to the show by 7:30. We walked right in and went up to the dressing room. Julie had my stuff up there and I dressed to get wet. This was a gory show with the key element being that fake or red colored water was sprayed through the show. Julie wanted me to experience this from the front row. I got my swim cap on with goggles a poncho with clothes that didn’t matter if red covered them. I also had a complete outfit to change back into. The squirting guys were thrilled that I was in the audience but didn’t realize I was Julie’s mom and told her how this great lady was in the front row and they were going to make a target of me. Julie informed them that was her Mother and not to hit me at all. They promised not to make me a target but I was in the front row so still got wet.
I’m so glad that I was able to experience Julie, being the lead in the show, from the front row though I must say it didn’t help when my goggles fogged up. It was so grand to sit there and hear how good she was from those around me. I didn’t say anything but felt like a proud peacock spreading my wings knowing my daughter was well liked and good at what she loves. I’m now so glad that when she first asked me if she should pursue acting I said, why not?
After the show I changed and hung around but I was tired and soon asked Julie how to get home. She gave me directions but on the road I got turned around not knowing the city. I had to ask for directions from Julie and finally found myself finding a parking spot. There weren’t any and I kept going around and around further and further out. I finally found a parking spot about 16 blocks away and decided I wasn’t going to drive again. It would go with Julie or take mass transit, this parking was for the birds. I txt Julie that I finally was home and she was quite curious that it took so long to park and after asking her, she said she just double parked for a while, and then looked again. All in all it was a grand day and I experienced Julie’s show just as she wanted me to experience it.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
I woke for my usual writing and then retrieved the car finding a much closer place to park. There are bars close by so after 2 is a great time to find parking. When I got back Julie was already getting up and we went for a nice breakfast. Mason, Julie’s boyfriend had to leave for his Dicken’s Faire practice, Julie skipping again since she couldn’t speak needing to rest her voice for her last show. Tonight I’m taking pictures and not experiencing the wet part of it. We went off in search of cardboard boxes so there would be enough to cover the floor of the theater. We had a great day and rested in the afternoon making sure we’d be fresh for the night. Julie uses a lot of energy when there’s a Friday night and Saturday night show. I left with Mason & Julie and we found plenty of parking since we were so early. I went off on my own while they worked on getting the theater ready and found a wonderful Sushi place but needed to wait ½ hour before it opened for dinner. I took some shots of me and the surrounding area that has changed for the better and now one of the in places to live. Interesting how things change in a few years time.
I went back to the theater and found Julie. She found me a place way up in the control booth so that I could be away from any flying blood. I did have good clothes on and really didn’t want to get them red. It again was a great show and now you can see the pictures with Julie. It’s Called ShEvil Dead which is a spoof of Evil Dead movies, all 3. I watched one and it was enough for me to get the gist and enjoy it. I’m not into gory movies unless my daughter stars in them. Strange, how I changed when Julie is the star.
I came back home with Julie’s friends and it was great to not drive or look for parking. I learned that lesson very well. I was just going to bed when Julie got home with again not going out. I think Julie wanted to be with me? But also her voice though worked well during the show was shot again and she needed to rest.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
I was up and took a walk but found when I returned that Julie was up and ready to go out for breakfast. I also discovered that I had left my sweetener at the one in South SF. I called and they had it so knew I’d go get it on Monday while Julie was working. Julie and I headed out to Napa over the Golden Gate so I could pass through Sonoma and then on to Napa to visit my Aunt Fredi & Uncle Ethan. My cousin Larry, his wife Bev, Cousin Jon Paul, his wife Gale, with their families were all there. It was a grand reunion. We had difficulty finding our way since they put an outlet store on the path that I used to take. Maps on my iPhone saved the day. We had a grand time though I didn’t take any pictures. Aunt Fredi is 84 and Uncle Ethan complained that he only put 5900 miles on his car in the last 6 months. He’ll be 88 in December. He looks and acts 70, no more. Auntie though is rather frail and forgets things. Amazing how they’ve stayed together all of these years. We had fun reminiscing of all the old times.
We finally left about 6 p.m. since Larry, being in Real Estate, still had work to do and Julie needed to stop in Vallejo to see a friend and try on outfits for the Dickens fair which started the last week of November. My iPhone maps found us the way. Technology is really great. We decided not to go by Julie’s old place since it was later and we were both tired with Julie had work in the morning.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Julie was up before me this morning and I slept in. The cat found its way up by me and almost pushed me out of bed though I finally pushed him over. I was off, taking Julie’s car to get my bag of sweetener and have a great breakfast though I didn’t get the pastry but a wonderful omelet. I came back and found parking, easily since it wasn’t evening. Carey, Julie’s roommate, showed me how to catch the bus to Lincoln Park. I was off to play golf.
The bus drivers are so cool and helped me by telling me where to go after I got off the bus. You’ll see the bus with the swivel in the middle. They have very long busses that bend so they can make it around the corners. Lincoln Park was wonderful.
I got there a little early and there was a tournament playing so I needed to wait. It wasn’t long and I had my clubs and was off playing golf. I was surprised that the Tee’s weren’t marked very well and sometimes I had to hunt though I eventually found them. There wasn’t anyone ahead of me and a man and son behind that didn’t want to join me so I just enjoyed a pretty good game of golf. It was warm though the fog had rolled in and I could only see the top of the Golden Gate Bridge. It was quite interesting crossing over the road and playing on the cliff for 4 holes. Quite hilly and glad I was in good shape since I was walking.
I got to the 16th hole and had to wait for those ahead in the tournament and I could see it would take quite a bit of time so asked how to get back to the club house. I had enough and was ready to go home. I went down the 13th hole again played with a guy and putted in a 15 footer which really felt good and came on back home to Julie’s. I must say I do love playing golf.
I got home just before Julie and enjoyed going to practice with her. It was quite interesting to see her put her Base on her back and just walk right to the car. She had it all worked out how it fit into it into her Mustang and we were off to her practice. We were to eat there since Maya always got food and did again except that it never came. Well at least until I was so starved I ate a croissant while waiting. I had played golf and was really, really hungry. The food came and I was so glad. I was very tired when we got home and was glad to crash.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
I woke tired and with a headache, after writing I fell back asleep not waking until 11. I felt so much better and ready for another wonderful day. I’m so grateful that I took 2 weeks instead of 1. I was off to the botanical gardens in the Golden Gate Park. I talked to Carey, asking how to get a bus from there to downtown and Julie since I needed to be down by her when she got off at 4. Carey is the queen of mass transit.
I walked around and found the botanical gardens and really enjoyed them though there weren’t as many flowers as I thought there would be but then it’s almost winter, so I shouldn’t have expected them. Do look at the flower pictures. I walked around a bit, but about 2:30 I decided that I needed to head toward the side of the park and find my way down to Julie. I walked through Stow Lake, more pictures especially of birds and turtles that didn’t move and really enjoyed me taking pictures of them. It amazes me how creatures get so used to their environment that they learn to enjoy us humans.
I found my way to the edge of the park and low and behold there was a bus stop. I again asked someone there if there was food around and they said no, so I decided I’d get food down by Julie while I waited for her. The bus driver again told me how to go and before I knew it I was in front of Julie’s building. I found a Taco Bell, with Julie reprimanding me, since there were much better places to eat Mexican, but I was satisfied and able to wait until we went out to Julie’s friend Carey’s from her childhood. We took BART and had a nice ride out. We did have to stand for a bit but soon we were able to sit.
Carrie picked us up and took her to her home in Dublin. We had a wonderful meal and enjoyed spending time with Carrie and her family. See Pictures. It took time to get home but it was a wonderful day.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
This was a very interesting day. Julie went to work and I was off to find the Victorian house tour. I arrived down close to it though I didn’t see Sacks Fifth Avenue. I asked a few people but they were all tourists and didn’t know either with some not even speaking very good English. I finally went into a store and low and behold it was right ahead. Lol. It’s always interesting to me to see how unobservant I can be. I wasn’t sure where to wait and found a wonderful tourist that was just lunching and talked to him a bit. Ray was from Australia. He’s coming back to NYC so maybe he’ll contact me. It’s so fun just to enjoy new people.
The tour finally came with Jay being a great tour guide. We hopped on a bus and went over to the Queen Anne Hotel which used to be an all girls school. More pictures here and during the tour. It ended up on Union street and I chose Jay’s favorite place to grab a sandwich. I found the way home from the waiter telling how to catch the one bus up the hill and get the next one that would take me back to Julie. I arrived back at the house just as Julie was coming in. How cool was that?
Maya picked us up and we went to the Mission district to where our gig was. They were playing in a burlesque show which was very interesting. I also found it interesting that Julie knew it would be ok with me. It is, though not what I choose today. I of course, wanted to hear and experience all of Julie’s gigs. We had burritos for dinner and then back to the show. Mason, Julie’s boyfriend showed up just in time for the show.
After the show Julie, Mason and I went for a walk to see the Day of the Dead which was quite interesting with elegant people all ghostly looking. Only a couple pictures. Everyone remembered their loved ones with notes and candles. It was very cool to see.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Julie’s off again, how great is that. I so love being with her and though Mason had issues the night before all is well today. I’m glad. We went down Height street and had breakfast. We were on our way to Golden Gate Park and the Academy of Sciences Museum and it started to rain. Mason was so great and went and got umbrellas for us and then of course, it quit raining.
We arrived at the perfect time to the Museum. We were ushered into the planetarium where they had a grand video which covered the dome ceiling which was better than 3D. It was very cool. Everywhere we went we were in perfect timing, I so enjoyed the feeding of the fish. Many pictures of fish. We spent most of the day there. We hurried when we got back to get ready to travel to Mason’s place and Tahoe for the weekend. First we were going to Berkley to see Rick, Julie’s old boyfriend and now great friend’s band.
Before stopping there we were hungry and found a great Thai place. We arrived about at the art show where the band was playing about ½ before it was over so I’d say perfect timing once again. It was interesting since they were background music which I think they’re better performing when people stop and listen. It was all fun and son we were back in Vallejo at Masons. Julie and Mason again had me take the bed which was so very sweet and they slept on the mattress. Rick, Julie’s ex and still good friend came down and we had fun talking. I hadn’t seen him since he now has a baby.
I was quite tired and really ready for a wonderful sleep.
Friday, November 4, 2011
I awoke quite abruptly this morning since Mason lives underneath the rest of the apartments. It was 8 a.m. but felt like earlier. Rick came down with Clara Mae, his daughter and we had a lot of fun talking and playing. Julie and Rick’s dog Miles Davis enjoyed destroying the cute toy that Julie had bought for him. Packing everything up wasn’t too hard since we just moved everything back to the car for our trip up to Tahoe. We, Julie, Mason and I went to a great place in Vallejo downtown to eat. I was shocked to see how deserted downtown was since the naval ship yard had closed. It was quite unnerving to see things from my past so deteriorated.
It was a great trip. I got to see Fairfield, lived there, Vacaville, parents lived there, and along the stretch after Davis where so many accidents happen because of the fog. Sacramento looked the same though I didn’t get to see the side that’s changed. Soon we were up highway 50 and at Apple Hill. It was a great place and they had great cider. Picture of Julie and Mason drinking some. Great view of lake and overlooking the hills below.
I love highway 50 since it’s so windy and fun. It snowed and Julie took pictures of the snow but it didn’t interest me since it was just trees with snow on them like we see every day in the winter. Snow is new to Julie and she does get excited which was fun to see. It was early afternoon when we arrived at Mason’s mom’s house which will be our station for the next few days. We got the house warming, being only 23 outside and we were off to the store. I was going to cook and it would be fun. We had picked up some beans at Apple Hill and the directions said 3 hours to cook, they seemed to take 3 days. I got artichokes great big huge ones that looked wonderful and chicken breast strips for our meat.
I put the artichokes on and the beans on and then 1 hour later put the chicken in. The artichokes took longer since we were at such a high altitude and they were so huge, so the chicken and artichokes got finished but the beans weren’t anywhere near getting done. We had a good meal without the beans and kept on cooking them until bedtime.
It was great to have a piano to play and though I didn’t have music I did enjoy playing with Julie. Mason took pictures and posted them in Facebook.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
It is a grand day. My cousin Curtis and his partner James came over and I cooked breakfast, good potatoes fried and crispy, a veggie scramble, and bacon. We all had a great time with Curtis and James showing us their pictures. They take wonderful ones and rented a 10,000 lens and went on a wonderful trip with professional photographers in Alaska. It was awesome and I’m so glad I reconnected with them. The beans are still cooking not yet done.
We then went over to Carson city Nevada to see Julie’s cousin Jim and Susan. They were so much fun. Jim is the split image of his father and just as great with his kids. Most are pretty grown except for their youngest son which they adopted from Susan’s sister. We left pretty late and decided to go back home since it was always nice to sleep in one’s own bed. Getting home we cooked the beans some more and now are almost done.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Getting up we found that the beans are now done and we had them for breakfast. Julie just loved them and so did I. We decided to go to see Heavenly valley, a place where I used to ski, though now it’s enclosed in a whole different way. We found that the gondola that we would take to the top was closed for maintenance and wouldn’t open until November 18th. A little late since we were leaving for SF tomorrow. We walked around the lake with a few pictures and enjoyed the crisp air. We did find that there was live music at one place latter so we went back home and took a nap.
We got up later and had Sushi then went over to the bar where the guitarist was and we had a lot of fun. I was the designated drive so felt great not caring how much the kids drank.
On the drive home, it was snowing and I was glad that I had experience in the snow. Julie got excited when the car’s tires skidded a bit but all was well and we arrived home safely. We really enjoyed the beans now since they were fully cooked.
Monday, November 7, 2011
We ate at a great little restaurant where Mason’s Mom wanted us to eat. It was really good and then we were on our way. We’re headed back home over the same trail we came out and stopping in Sacramento to see Julie’s God Mother, May. She’s been a great friend for a long time though we don’t speak any more being on opposite sides of the US. While waiting for her we found a great 2nd hand book store where we found some great books.
May was fun though talked and talked. 2 hours later I decided we needed to go and Julie was most appreciative since May would have continued for a few more hours.
We stopped over by Old Sac getting out and walking around. Many things had changed and some not at all. I was so glad to see the old and new still coming together. I do love connecting with the wonderful earth.
We arrived back in SF around 6 with Mason and Julie wanting to go to the movies. The only one I wanted to see was Puss n Boots in 3D. They decided that would be a good one to see too so off we went downtown. I so love the busses. 2 dollars for everywhere and with the transfer I’ve always got back without paying any more. Julie and Mason have their passes so not needed at all.
The movie was great going across the street before with the kids getting a beer and then we got some popcorn for the movie. The movie was great and we all really enjoyed it. I think the kids would have taken a cab back but a little walk and we were back at the bus stop just as the bus came. We were home very soon. I love mass transit especially when the buses come as often as they do in SF.
Tuesday November 8, 2011
It’s time to head home. Very sad but I’m glad too. I do love being with Julie but I also love coming back to my place. It was a grand vacation and returning home is wonderful.
Debi and Mike picked me up but I found that my car’s battery had died so tomorrow I’ll deal with it. AAA is the best way to go and I’m so glad to be home and in my own bed.
Such a grand and wonderful vacation. I hope to do it again next year.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Trip to Paul McCartney Show
It all started a month ago when Patty got her new cart we’ll call it. I didn’t realize how cute and small it was until we got to the concert though I saw that it fit in the back of her small car. Patty had asked if I’d like to go with her to see Paul and though I didn’t really like crowds I do love Beatle music. We had decided to have dinner at the Hard Rock café before the concert and Patty had called and though they didn’t take reservations they gave preferential treatment to handicap.
We had decided to head out about 3 p.m. though the concert didn’t start until 8 p.m. We didn’t want to hit traffic and if we did we wanted plenty of time. I was a little leery since I’d never been to Yankee Stadium especially the new one so I didn’t know the ins and outs of getting there. Patty had directions to where the parking was so I held those and she put on the GPS.
Route 17 got very busy so we headed down other roads to get to route 4. I love Patty, she’s so smart and I always learn from her. We had a grand time getting over to the city. We got to our exit and there was traffic all went pretty smoothly. The GPS wasn’t any use trying to take us a different way. Now that I think about it, it was probably the fastest and best way if we had listened to it.
We got almost to the parking and Patty turned left. I was shocked and had to just watch. I knew that the parking was on the next block but the following block after that one was the Major Degan which she thought wouldn’t be able to get back from so she turned. It took me several minutes to convince her that was where the parking was and then it took us over 20 minutes to get turned around and back to the parking. I felt that the parking was on the left and Patty thought it was the right. She was in the right lane and now we had lots of traffic. It was on the left and I got her to stop traffic by pushing her nose through which caused unhappy people but finally, oh finally, we got to the parking garage. What a relief. We both relieved, let go of our tension and were off to have a great time.
We found the handicapped parking and Patty put together the chair without a hitch. Now I had to run after her to keep up. We were off to the Hard Rock Café. Patty saw that there wasn’t a line for her shirts so got them and I stood in line for the Café. Once Patty was finished with buying the shirts she zipped around to the front of the line and we found the manager. He ushered us in and put us at the head of the list. We were able to wait where the ushers worked though I, of course, needed the bathroom. Off I went. There was a line and only 2 stalls for the whole restaurant. A waitress was in line so I let her go first since I knew she really needed to work and serve.
I was walking back to our waiting spot when I saw waving of hands where both Patty and the manager were waving, we already had our seat. What great service and how nice to be able to sit. It was really hot outside and I was glad that it was so cool. Then I heard the music. A rock station was quite loud though I was determined I would have a grand meal no matter what. I found it not to be too bad when they weren’t talking.
Patty too, didn’t like the music so loud but was so grateful we had a place to sit. We had a great dinner though they didn’t bring Patty water fast enough. She drank a lot and we finally would ask anyone around for water. Patty really wanted to stay until we could get into the stadium but I felt bad that there were so many waiting that couldn’t eat yet. The music was so loud that it was hurting my ears and giving me a headache so I finally got Patty to go. Now there was difficulty getting our waitress to get our check. I walked around and soon she came and all was in order.
Now the line for the bathroom was really long so we had a longer wait but then that was ok since we needed to wait anyway and Patty was in her chair. Once we were out of the bathroom we were whisked off by one of the guards and shown exactly where our seats were. They were way down from the top which were really good seats but it meant that Patty would need to walk a long way down. We asked the attendant if we could stay where Patty could sit right in her chair and we could be right up on top. She said yes until the people that had those seats came. I just knew all would be fine and we’d be able to keep the seats. The concert started and we were having such a grand wonderful time. We were in perfect seats and we really enjoyed them. About 45 minutes into the concert the people came to claim their seats and we gave them our seats. They were very happy since they were a lot closer and we so wonderfully ecstatic that we could keep ours.
The concert was awesome and we enjoyed it so much. All of the issues getting there and eating were gone and wonderful enjoyment of seeing an artist that was so into his fans. Paul played, sang and entertained us until way after 11. I’ve never seen anyone give so much to an audience. At the end they kept on having encores. It was a wonderful time. The music in the stadium wasn’t as loud as the music in the Café. I took pictures though they seemed to be a lot of the same. It really was different and a lot of fun. We had fireworks and Paul played the piano and different instruments and we heard all of the great songs the Beatles sang so long ago. The stadium was filled and Paul was staying another night since so many wanted to hear him.
And now we have the trip home.
Patty and I waited until our section got out so we could go to the bathroom and then head out to the car. I was so glad that Patty had her chair since it took time just getting to the bathroom which was another wait. I’m so glad I can wait today and not be in a rush that would go nowhere.
We saw that next time we could pay for our parking ticket before so that would be one less thing to do when the concert was over and then once we had the chair in the car the attendant stopped traffic so we could pull out. It took about ½ hour to get out of the immediate concert traffic and then we turned left to go to the GW bridge. A big mistake!!
We went about 1 mile and all stopped. Traffic wasn’t moving and we could see people on the right pulling in front of 2 cars that were from out of state and didn’t know how to keep their place in line. I was tired it was now after midnight. I tried figuring out my feelings about everything and keeping Patty calm since she wanted to get upset but could see the uselessness in it. We had, had such a wonderful time we didn’t want to wreck it by getting upset. Finally I got out of the car that wouldn’t cross the intersection and saw that it was futile because the traffic on the other side was 3 or 4 cars wide trying to squeeze down into 1. Patty finally pulled out and we went around everything. As long as we didn’t have to wait any longer, we were happy.
We found the Major Degan and it was jammed to so we decided to go back the other way that didn’t have traffic and see if we could get across the GW Bridge. We did and there was no traffic. We did see the reason for the other traffic and that was that the lower deck of the bridge only had 1 lane open. I was so glad that we finally got around everything but now I had to go to the bathroom quickly. As we got onto Route 4 I saw a Best Western and had Patty stop. With my urgent look the night attendant opened the door and let me use his bathroom. What a relief and blessing. I knew I was on the other side of the bridge and had a safe wonderful ride home.
As I look back on my experience I find there are many lessons I learned. It’s wonderful going to an event with a handicapped person. You do get preferential treatment. Always make sure you know where your parking is so there’s no confusion and the drive is a lot easier. Double check the traffic issues and plan alternate routes to get back out of the city. Make sure the place you’re eating place is quiet for a peaceful dinner. Don’t stay in traffic get out and go another way. Just driving around is a lot better on the nerves than not knowing how long you’ll be stuck. We would have been stuck for hours which really would have been disastrous to my body functions.
The best lesson of all is though things may not go right but the enjoyment of friendship and a wonderful concert is so worth all of the little mishaps along the way.
We had decided to head out about 3 p.m. though the concert didn’t start until 8 p.m. We didn’t want to hit traffic and if we did we wanted plenty of time. I was a little leery since I’d never been to Yankee Stadium especially the new one so I didn’t know the ins and outs of getting there. Patty had directions to where the parking was so I held those and she put on the GPS.
Route 17 got very busy so we headed down other roads to get to route 4. I love Patty, she’s so smart and I always learn from her. We had a grand time getting over to the city. We got to our exit and there was traffic all went pretty smoothly. The GPS wasn’t any use trying to take us a different way. Now that I think about it, it was probably the fastest and best way if we had listened to it.
We got almost to the parking and Patty turned left. I was shocked and had to just watch. I knew that the parking was on the next block but the following block after that one was the Major Degan which she thought wouldn’t be able to get back from so she turned. It took me several minutes to convince her that was where the parking was and then it took us over 20 minutes to get turned around and back to the parking. I felt that the parking was on the left and Patty thought it was the right. She was in the right lane and now we had lots of traffic. It was on the left and I got her to stop traffic by pushing her nose through which caused unhappy people but finally, oh finally, we got to the parking garage. What a relief. We both relieved, let go of our tension and were off to have a great time.
We found the handicapped parking and Patty put together the chair without a hitch. Now I had to run after her to keep up. We were off to the Hard Rock Café. Patty saw that there wasn’t a line for her shirts so got them and I stood in line for the Café. Once Patty was finished with buying the shirts she zipped around to the front of the line and we found the manager. He ushered us in and put us at the head of the list. We were able to wait where the ushers worked though I, of course, needed the bathroom. Off I went. There was a line and only 2 stalls for the whole restaurant. A waitress was in line so I let her go first since I knew she really needed to work and serve.
I was walking back to our waiting spot when I saw waving of hands where both Patty and the manager were waving, we already had our seat. What great service and how nice to be able to sit. It was really hot outside and I was glad that it was so cool. Then I heard the music. A rock station was quite loud though I was determined I would have a grand meal no matter what. I found it not to be too bad when they weren’t talking.
Patty too, didn’t like the music so loud but was so grateful we had a place to sit. We had a great dinner though they didn’t bring Patty water fast enough. She drank a lot and we finally would ask anyone around for water. Patty really wanted to stay until we could get into the stadium but I felt bad that there were so many waiting that couldn’t eat yet. The music was so loud that it was hurting my ears and giving me a headache so I finally got Patty to go. Now there was difficulty getting our waitress to get our check. I walked around and soon she came and all was in order.
Now the line for the bathroom was really long so we had a longer wait but then that was ok since we needed to wait anyway and Patty was in her chair. Once we were out of the bathroom we were whisked off by one of the guards and shown exactly where our seats were. They were way down from the top which were really good seats but it meant that Patty would need to walk a long way down. We asked the attendant if we could stay where Patty could sit right in her chair and we could be right up on top. She said yes until the people that had those seats came. I just knew all would be fine and we’d be able to keep the seats. The concert started and we were having such a grand wonderful time. We were in perfect seats and we really enjoyed them. About 45 minutes into the concert the people came to claim their seats and we gave them our seats. They were very happy since they were a lot closer and we so wonderfully ecstatic that we could keep ours.
The concert was awesome and we enjoyed it so much. All of the issues getting there and eating were gone and wonderful enjoyment of seeing an artist that was so into his fans. Paul played, sang and entertained us until way after 11. I’ve never seen anyone give so much to an audience. At the end they kept on having encores. It was a wonderful time. The music in the stadium wasn’t as loud as the music in the Café. I took pictures though they seemed to be a lot of the same. It really was different and a lot of fun. We had fireworks and Paul played the piano and different instruments and we heard all of the great songs the Beatles sang so long ago. The stadium was filled and Paul was staying another night since so many wanted to hear him.
And now we have the trip home.
Patty and I waited until our section got out so we could go to the bathroom and then head out to the car. I was so glad that Patty had her chair since it took time just getting to the bathroom which was another wait. I’m so glad I can wait today and not be in a rush that would go nowhere.
We saw that next time we could pay for our parking ticket before so that would be one less thing to do when the concert was over and then once we had the chair in the car the attendant stopped traffic so we could pull out. It took about ½ hour to get out of the immediate concert traffic and then we turned left to go to the GW bridge. A big mistake!!
We went about 1 mile and all stopped. Traffic wasn’t moving and we could see people on the right pulling in front of 2 cars that were from out of state and didn’t know how to keep their place in line. I was tired it was now after midnight. I tried figuring out my feelings about everything and keeping Patty calm since she wanted to get upset but could see the uselessness in it. We had, had such a wonderful time we didn’t want to wreck it by getting upset. Finally I got out of the car that wouldn’t cross the intersection and saw that it was futile because the traffic on the other side was 3 or 4 cars wide trying to squeeze down into 1. Patty finally pulled out and we went around everything. As long as we didn’t have to wait any longer, we were happy.
We found the Major Degan and it was jammed to so we decided to go back the other way that didn’t have traffic and see if we could get across the GW Bridge. We did and there was no traffic. We did see the reason for the other traffic and that was that the lower deck of the bridge only had 1 lane open. I was so glad that we finally got around everything but now I had to go to the bathroom quickly. As we got onto Route 4 I saw a Best Western and had Patty stop. With my urgent look the night attendant opened the door and let me use his bathroom. What a relief and blessing. I knew I was on the other side of the bridge and had a safe wonderful ride home.
As I look back on my experience I find there are many lessons I learned. It’s wonderful going to an event with a handicapped person. You do get preferential treatment. Always make sure you know where your parking is so there’s no confusion and the drive is a lot easier. Double check the traffic issues and plan alternate routes to get back out of the city. Make sure the place you’re eating place is quiet for a peaceful dinner. Don’t stay in traffic get out and go another way. Just driving around is a lot better on the nerves than not knowing how long you’ll be stuck. We would have been stuck for hours which really would have been disastrous to my body functions.
The best lesson of all is though things may not go right but the enjoyment of friendship and a wonderful concert is so worth all of the little mishaps along the way.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Climbing up the Mountain
Why did I choose to climb the mountian?
I started out on an early morning walk. I so love to walk when I’m on vacation and get to see the wonderful sites around me. This early morning I walked up the hill so I could walk back down on the way back but then I saw a sign that said Bass Lake. I had been so yearning for a lake that I was willing to walk straight down hill when I really wanted and easy way back. About ½ a mile down I see a trail that said Bass Lake this way so off I went again. I kept walking and walking and knew that I had walked past my hotel if I were on top of the mountain so figured that if I kept walking I would be able to find a path that would take me back up there so I wouldn’t have to walk all the way back on the trail and up the steep hill I had come down. .
The lake was awesome and I thoroughly enjoyed walking by it. I thought it would be a little lake but found more and more of it. I finally finished the lake and knew I’d walked over a mile in so now I didn’t want to walk all of the way back to where I caught the trail and then directly back up the steep road another ½ mile. I thought it would be easier to just walk right up the mountain even though I didn’t see a trail. I learned many lessons walking up the mountain.
I first saw some bushes that weren’t too deep and so up I started. When I got to the end of the bushes I see that the hill is full of loose rock which isn’t very conducive to walking up since I kept sliding down. I knew there was a way up so I put my feet at the base of a tree and then looked for the next bush branch or tree to hang on to so that I could get another foothold. I tried some huge dead branches but most of them broke off. There were little branches that were green and growing which held my weight and help me crawl up to the next tree. I found it quite interesting that the little new green bushes/branches would hold my weight though the big dead ones just broke off. I found it was about searching for new nourished growing things young or old that would give me the strength to pull myself up to the next secure tree. Just like people that are growing can feed me the knowledge that I seek to climb to a higher place in my own growth.
I next discovered that there was always a way if I looked for it. There was one point where I thought this is too difficult and then I looked back down the mountain and saw that I’d come so much further than I had thought I had. I knew then that there was no way that I would or could make it back down the mountain and it was a lot easier to continue up than to go back down. Immediately things got easier and I could now easily see where my next young branch was and how I was going to make it up the mountain. I saw that as soon as my thinking changed and I could see that I was climbing up the mountain. It became so much easier. It didn’t mean that I didn’t slip but that wasn’t my focus any more my focus with how not if I could. It felt so much better to know that I could instead of thinking I couldn’t. I found my thinking interesting. When I didn’t think I could do it, I found it so much harder to do but when I knew that I could and would then it became easier and simpler. I so see how I thinketh so am I.
The next part became even easier when I actually saw the top and now I was on all fours getting to the top as quickly as possible. I was tired of this journey and knew that I could finish the hike very quickly and did. I didn’t care that there was a man in his yard on his cell phone and I’m sure didn’t understand why I was in his back yard. I went right on through and found my way back to my hotel. It was interesting how I learned so many lessons 2 hours.
May all of my walks be so productive though I’d rather the lessons be easier than this one was.
I started out on an early morning walk. I so love to walk when I’m on vacation and get to see the wonderful sites around me. This early morning I walked up the hill so I could walk back down on the way back but then I saw a sign that said Bass Lake. I had been so yearning for a lake that I was willing to walk straight down hill when I really wanted and easy way back. About ½ a mile down I see a trail that said Bass Lake this way so off I went again. I kept walking and walking and knew that I had walked past my hotel if I were on top of the mountain so figured that if I kept walking I would be able to find a path that would take me back up there so I wouldn’t have to walk all the way back on the trail and up the steep hill I had come down. .
The lake was awesome and I thoroughly enjoyed walking by it. I thought it would be a little lake but found more and more of it. I finally finished the lake and knew I’d walked over a mile in so now I didn’t want to walk all of the way back to where I caught the trail and then directly back up the steep road another ½ mile. I thought it would be easier to just walk right up the mountain even though I didn’t see a trail. I learned many lessons walking up the mountain.
I first saw some bushes that weren’t too deep and so up I started. When I got to the end of the bushes I see that the hill is full of loose rock which isn’t very conducive to walking up since I kept sliding down. I knew there was a way up so I put my feet at the base of a tree and then looked for the next bush branch or tree to hang on to so that I could get another foothold. I tried some huge dead branches but most of them broke off. There were little branches that were green and growing which held my weight and help me crawl up to the next tree. I found it quite interesting that the little new green bushes/branches would hold my weight though the big dead ones just broke off. I found it was about searching for new nourished growing things young or old that would give me the strength to pull myself up to the next secure tree. Just like people that are growing can feed me the knowledge that I seek to climb to a higher place in my own growth.
I next discovered that there was always a way if I looked for it. There was one point where I thought this is too difficult and then I looked back down the mountain and saw that I’d come so much further than I had thought I had. I knew then that there was no way that I would or could make it back down the mountain and it was a lot easier to continue up than to go back down. Immediately things got easier and I could now easily see where my next young branch was and how I was going to make it up the mountain. I saw that as soon as my thinking changed and I could see that I was climbing up the mountain. It became so much easier. It didn’t mean that I didn’t slip but that wasn’t my focus any more my focus with how not if I could. It felt so much better to know that I could instead of thinking I couldn’t. I found my thinking interesting. When I didn’t think I could do it, I found it so much harder to do but when I knew that I could and would then it became easier and simpler. I so see how I thinketh so am I.
The next part became even easier when I actually saw the top and now I was on all fours getting to the top as quickly as possible. I was tired of this journey and knew that I could finish the hike very quickly and did. I didn’t care that there was a man in his yard on his cell phone and I’m sure didn’t understand why I was in his back yard. I went right on through and found my way back to my hotel. It was interesting how I learned so many lessons 2 hours.
May all of my walks be so productive though I’d rather the lessons be easier than this one was.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Why Central City?
I was getting ready for vacation and I found myself booking my hotels on hotel.com. I was having issues and soon discovered that I booked 2 different nights in Central City Kentucky. Why? I couldn’t cancel them so instead of giving away the money I knew from inside myself that I had lessons to learn in Central City.
I spent the night before with my cousin in Fairmont, West Virginia and had a great drive down the mountains and into the little town of Central City. I passed where my bother lived and remembered the control I no longer accept and was so relieved of, being enlightened from. The freedom that I felt was grand. It felt like a whole new world opened up without me doing anything. I then passed through where my ex boyfriend used to live and another weight was let go of. It was so cool to see the wonderful lightness in my body. The grass was so green and the trees so vibrant, the sky so blue. I looked at them and saw so much more than I’d ever seen. It was so cool. Now I’m excited to know what Central City has to offer me.
My first night at Days Inn was full of completion numbers, the address of the hotel, my room number so I knew that I was completing of the old. I had a man at the Mexican place I ate want me to ask him to join me but I knew that would be falling into my old pattern of doing what others wanted instead of being who I really am.
I got up the next morning and knew that today was a new beginning and went to the Drake golf club and completed trying to be what men wanted me to be. I joined a group of 3 that play regularly and after 2 holes asked go on without me. I felt hurt for a moment and then knew I was trying to be what they wanted and that wasn’t really me. The man and his son behind me didn’t join me so I knew that they felt insecure and didn’t want me to be with them.
I knew that I was to play by myself. I played better than I’ve ever played, not a coincidence, I’m sure. My guidance always shows me the way and it’s for me to learn the lesson, in this case, it was for me to be who I really am and not fill others perceptions of me. I kept up with the guys now ahead and thoroughly enjoyed my game. I was so glad that I was able to go on and be me. I had a grand day and connected with the earth as I’ve never done before. The golf course had the effects of storms and needed healing too. I was able to do that only because I was able to be the real me not one that others perceived me to be.
When I got back to Central City, I found that I was now in mastery numbers, the hotel and my room. What a grand lesson learned and also the ability to help heal and nurture me and the earth. I went to a restaurant that was no longer and then found one of great catfish grown in Central City. It was great being part of a little city and know that I can be who I really am. Aren’t our lessons wonderful? Look for and learn yours today.
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