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Look out Chicago…here I come!

Today, I ended up being extra productive and accomplished all my major travel plans.  So..here we go…

I booked my roundtrip flight and my transportation to and from the airport.  Now, originally I thought I’d make it easy on myself and fly directly out of my city, however for interest purposes, I decided to fly out of the major city airport which is 2 hours away from where I live.  Well, here’s the kicker, the shuttle bus will pick me up right in front of my house (awesome), however they recommend that I pick the time on their schedule which I would arrive at the airport a minimum of 3 hours before my flight…3 hours (not so awesome)… What the heck am I gonna do for 3 hours in the airport?!  Besides hand sanitizing incessantly, the only thing I can think of is to find a place to nap!

I’ve downloaded the airline apps for my boarding passes, I love technology for that, but I also have to print out my itinerary (yay!) …printer reads “out of ink” (boo)

Sigh, well add buy ink and get my camera checked out to the list…

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Gadget problems…

Sigh… I’m exhausted…  

I accomplished a major conquest which is getting my passport pictures and renewal done AND having it expressed delivered for an extra $50.  The line up was endless, but it did move well.  I overheard one of the passport agents say the worst time to come to get your passports done was at noon and on a Monday.  So…typical of me, I did both.  I arrived at noon on a Monday and spent 2 hours there.  I was unprepared as I didn’t have my passport renewal application filled out, so I was sent right back to the end of the line where I had to fill out the form.  To add to my adventure, I also needed 2 of my friends’ correct addresses for verification that someone other than family knew me (or is it to verify I had any friends at all….hmmm) and I was on 2% battery on my cellphone.  With a bit of perspiration, I managed to get the information I needed; I waited for another 45 minutes and made it out of the people packed office in 2 hours.  Luckily, I practiced enhancing my calm and smiled that at least things were moving forward.  I will have to pick my passport up 2 days before my flight which, again makes for an interesting journey.

With my receipt and reassurance that my passport was on its way, I proceeded to book my ticket online.  I did use Kayak and got an amazing deal and was expecting my tickets to be emailed to me “within 3 hours” as it had stated, however nothing but a reservation of the tickets was confirmed.  I guess that will be tomorrow’s priority one task.

As I write this, I am shaking my head at myself and laughing.

I wrote of a list of things to pack and checked off my accomplishments on my “To Do” list.  As I was going down my list, I decided, to make a video about my little mishaps of the day.  WELL, the video was great, I had a great angle and such…BUT upon playback I noticed a really annoying clicking noise.  I took it to google, of course, and found some trouble shooting tips…did they work?  Nope.  I took out my extended warranty plan and noticed there was a 90-Day no question exchange option.  With a glimmer of hope I reached into the folder to read my receipt date and I am currently 7 days passed the 90-Day option.  To have it checked out and possibly prepared is still covered, however with 10 days before my trip this makes for a very interesting twist to my plans.  My last option before sending it out for repairs is to reset my settings to its default.  I went to do that and my camera battery died and I cannot access it until it is charged.  Double sigh.

Well, I guess things have to balance out somehow…I can’t help but smile and think this vacation is SOOO gonna be worth it because damn…this gal needs a break!  WHEW!

If you are having a rough day, just think, at least you aren’t me at this moment and that should put a smile on your face.  I know I am still wearing my smile with pride, because things could be much worse…

Until my next time… PEACE!

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Preparing for Crunchtime!

I must say, getting these plans in order with the Hard Rock Hotel in Chicago is probably the best thing I have ever done. The hotel manager has been working with me via email and she has been so helpful and returns emails quickly and also asks me many questions to help my stay with them an amazing one. I will be getting a sedan to pick me up at the airport so my travel will be an easy and stress free one. I was thinking about getting the CityPASS, however I don’t think I will be able to enjoy many of the attractions due to the weather. I definitely want to go to the Field Museum and maybe opt out of the other attractions for another time when the weather is more cooperative. There will also be some interesting restaurants and bars close by so I may just enjoy the nightlife for this time around.

Tomorrow, I will be getting my passport renewed and once I know it’s on the way, I can finalize my flight. Whew! Thank goodness I rested for most of this weekend, this week will be the final push. With less than 2 weeks before the travels, I have picked out some outfits and purchased a travel kit for my liquids. Since they have limited everything to liquids in a quart sized bag, I feel like I had to play “Tetris” to get all my tiny amounts of each liquid product in this tiny bag. Oh well, at least I know one thing for sure, I’ve learned that less is definitely more and I am currently in training to become a minimalist. Challenge accepted universe! 🙂

At least I got them all in!
At least I got them all in!
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Meeting people…real life and online…does it matter?

Sometimes in life someone comes into your life at the most unexpected time and place and they make things so clear to you. They know your soul they know what you need even though you just met them. What makes me smile even more is that people I have never met have become more interesting to me and more real than anyone else I’ve met in person. It’s like the universe has a way of bringing the like-minded people, you need, to you one way or another. Now, I know there are some that are skeptical and are negative about meeting people online, etc. and I admit that I was one of the pessimists for a very long time. However, over the last year and into this new year, I have met people who have been more sincere and honest and that is something I have not had in a long time. I can spend time with my current friends and family, can spend hours talking, laughing, but these same people, I’ve observed their actions and what they say, they are not genuine. I feel sad for these people because it must be so hard to live a lie for 24 hours a day.

I’ve had people laugh and say most people online are just saying things you want to hear, however doesn’t the same thing go for people in real life? There are lots of people who are not authentic and will tell you what you want to hear then turn around and say the most awful things as soon as you turn your back. My logic says, the people I’ve met online don’t have a reason to put up fronts, they are genuine because that is all they have. I’ve been lucky enough to meet some wonderful people who I talk to and share my life as they share theirs with me. I don’t believe there is much of a difference between meeting someone on the street and meeting someone from behind the keyboard and a screen.

As I’m getting ready, mentally and emotionally, for my travels I find more and more opportunities and positivity towards me. Encouragement to follow my dreams and enjoy my passions. For those that are reading this, I welcome you into my world and I appreciate the time you took to read my writing and my creations. Although I have not met you all I cannot help but feel we are all connected in some way. I know that this is a kind and beautiful world, you just have to be open to it in any form it comes to you.

Much love to you all and may you all have an uplifting day!

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Dancing On Blades

You’ve formed friendships with the evil ones
And you dance in the Devil’s facade

I wish you well in your endeavours
But get out before it gets hot

I cannot sway you to do the right thing
For that’s not what I am to do

I can only watch you self destruct
I cry hoping you’ll make it through

I hope you stop dancing on blades
And stop listening to the evil one’s lies

Remember who you are, my friend
Don’t let your true self hide.

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Transportation, flights and hotels…oh my!

In planning my destinations for my travels over the next 3 months, I came across an option at a hotel for a “Break-Up Party” where one can have alone or with friends. I think that this is the most GENIUS idea I have ever discovered! Apparently, you can have clothes modelled for you, a bartender, massage, mani-pedi, a cart of ice cream and a basket of chocolate…right in the comforts of your own hotel room; they will also send a limo to get you to and from anywhere you want to go! Now, for someone like me, who is looking to start over, I thought this would be an ideal way to celebrate new beginnings. The first email I received today was from the hotel manager and their concierge showing me all the different options available. I am so excited, so maybe I’ll come back from my first destination relaxed, refreshed and possibly 5-10 pounds heavier. Hmmmm…

My first destination will be in the Windy City of Chicago. I haven’t been there since I was a child visiting my family. Today, I’ll be coordinating my itinerary to all the places I want to see…and YES that also includes seeing the Harpo Studios. Gotta see where Oprah did her show, thank goodness I’m not actually ON the show, although, I would have a LOT to say.

Today, will be filled with finalizing trip details and radio episode preparations…well, after a cup of coffee..or maybe 3…

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My silence…

My silence is not a weapon
Nor venom nor filled with hate
My seclusion is my protection
To which no one will ever relate
My calmness is not an attack
To hurt you nor make you cry
My pensive is not argumentative
To destroy you nor tell a lie
I have peace in my soul
And relief in my heart
Because I know what I must do
I must gracefully decline this dance upon minds
As I’m closing my eyes, I exhale
I think it’s the time for us to move on
I go down my path that’s not certain
But to my dreams is where I must run.

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Nothin’ and No One is gonna break my stride

I had a great day, had a successful appointment with my doctor and despite the news about the flus and such, he has given me relief knowing that he said, “Just use common sense and hygiene and you will be fine.” It was kind of funny how I had to wear a mask to cover my face because I DIDN’T get the flu shot, they said it was for my protection, which in retrospect, I would have to agree with! There were some people that came into the clinic coughing freely, not covering their mouths, sniffling and they didn’t put their masks on until they were TOLD to. I have to wonder what the hell? Unfortunately, I guess people just do what the want to.

My day was full of errands and preparations, but the bonus was when the house was nice and quiet; the kids were sleeping soundly… I got to work on my radio show with such an amazing co-host! I really am quite lucky to have such a great support and mutual admiration for someone I’ve never met in person, but have messaged and talked on the phone with. It’s so nice to know that in general the world is a friendly place after all.

Our second radio episode was about New Year’s plans. We had some great callers and great conversation…a lot of laughter and some spiked drinks. Hahahaha

As I sit in my studio listening to the buzz of the furnace fan and think about my whole day, I can’t help but feel at peace knowing I’m doing exactly what I’m supposed to be doing. I have found my voice, revived my passion for writing and have enjoyed this exciting ride and all the abundance it holds for me.

I hope only the best for you all, so keep smiling and look passed the obstacles, trials, betrayals and abandonments because your just rewards are there… it’s just getting ready to bloom.

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Delayed Plans…

It seems as though I have hit my first bump in my travel plans “road”.  My region has had one of the coldest and most awful weather leaving people without power and heat for 72hrs.  A bad flu has claimed some lives in a city not far from my own, so these are definitely a time of trials.  The terrible weather conditions and health concerns have “pumped the brakes” on my plans.  I had planned on flying out this weekend but with the weather being so unpredictable, I do NOT want to risk getting stuck in an airport or deal the frustration of it all.

It all seems to work out when I look at the bigger picture.  I have an important doctor’s visit this Thursday and I also have my second radio broadcast Thursday night.  So my patience is being tested..Thanks Universe..haha.  A bit of seclusion and rest before the real action begins, well, that’s what I’m chalking it up as.

I had a great convo with one of my best friends this morning and it’s so nice to bounce ideas and take a personal inventory of my current place in life.  It’s nice to be able to be completely open about my feelings with someone who has no judgements.  In the end, we are looking to find peace, where we find it is ultimately up to us.

As I begin my day, at the ripe time of NOON, I can’t help but feel a sense of relief and my excitement about my projects have not wavered at all.  I’m gonna refer to this point in my life as the calm before the action.  Give my plans a little time to materialize…and away I go!

Hope everyone is having an amazing week!

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