Yesterday I arrived w/o any problem in Rome and it was super easy for my roommate, Gina, and me to meet up at the airport. Three train rides and a little over 5-6 hours later, we were in Fano, a beautiful beach town full of Italians and almost no Americans. Italians are still on holiday so the beach is packed, the water is warm and a gorgeous blue color. We were good about not sleeping yesterday as that would have been bad for jet lag. We went to the beach, swam, chatted with the locals on our limited Italian and their limited English. Recommendation for dinner was a place called Florida.
We came all this way to eat at Florida. Ha! I had a Guinness in a bottle (chocolatey and wonderful), and a thin-crust vegiteriana pizza--it had a lot of arugula on top and the sauce was wonderful. I'm guessing that is American style pizza, but lovely still. It was a nice outdoor setting, it is very much like paradise here. Bikes & Vespas line the streets, we're missing our bikes. My computer is having issues connecting to the internet, not sure why yet (using Gina's iPhone).
Today so far we're both being beach bums and are a little tired, but no sign of jet lag. Off to lunch now!
Ciao ciao.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
The Trip has Begun!
I'm hanging out for a few hours in the Washington, Dulles airport awaiting an 8-hr flight to Italy. Thank goodness there's wifi here, I don't have my trusty iPhone so have felt all morning like I forgot something (like an arm or something of equal importance). I bought 2 hours and it's taken all of that time to finish up loose ends that I didn't have time to take care of in Denver. Skype calling has saved me. I was freaking out at the idea of using a pay phone. Oooh, did people use those once upon a time? $1/4 min talk within the US. Sounds not as cool as Skype calling on the cute Netbook. So far, it's connecting to the internet great (better than Linux systems used to).
Packing last night was dizzying with being excessively tired and probably a little more stressed than necessary considering that I was trying to pack so few things, but I still hardly had room for those basics. The bike stuff takes up a lot of room, and the helmet is outside of the bags (it'll be tossed promptly after the bike portion of the trip is over).
Everyone sitting around me is wearing nice shoes. Must be Italians. I'm feeling a bit too casually dressed. One has to wear pants, however, if one is wearing compression stockings (those that are used for patients). This is a test run for these. If they work here, I trust they'll work great after races, too. I digress.
Off to walking laps in the airport and shifting into sardine mode. Thank you to everyone who's emailed in the past day or so! More from Rome, maybe in Italiano!!!
Packing last night was dizzying with being excessively tired and probably a little more stressed than necessary considering that I was trying to pack so few things, but I still hardly had room for those basics. The bike stuff takes up a lot of room, and the helmet is outside of the bags (it'll be tossed promptly after the bike portion of the trip is over).
Everyone sitting around me is wearing nice shoes. Must be Italians. I'm feeling a bit too casually dressed. One has to wear pants, however, if one is wearing compression stockings (those that are used for patients). This is a test run for these. If they work here, I trust they'll work great after races, too. I digress.
Off to walking laps in the airport and shifting into sardine mode. Thank you to everyone who's emailed in the past day or so! More from Rome, maybe in Italiano!!!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
The excitement has hit
I've been so looking forward to this trip; but it was only this morning when I literally flew out of bed that I realized the true excitement and adrenaline rush of what it means to actually be traveling to Europe oh so soon.
I'm almost packed and my place is nearly perfectly clean (can you believe it? I certainly can't!)
Still checking items off the list, there is a lot more yet to accomplish!
I'm almost packed and my place is nearly perfectly clean (can you believe it? I certainly can't!)
Still checking items off the list, there is a lot more yet to accomplish!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Packing Day #2
Yikes, it's nearly time to depart. There have been a few days since the last post & those have been completely non-packing days. Today a little happened, but there's been so much else with which I've needed to concern myself. At least now I can report having gone on a 4-hour climbing road ride yesterday (solo) and 2-hour today (with friends, thank goodness), so I have a little more confidence that my legs will be suited to the riding ahead. (It's more a confidence thing than anything else--it's too late now to gain any more fitness or strength.) And now my pedals and saddle are in the "Italy" pile growing on the floor. The next pedal stroke will be on Italian soil!
Tonight I went to a BBQ for my company and it was a really nice time to get to meet the significant others of my co-workers (those I haven't met before) and some co-workers are in from out-of-town. I finally was able to place much of the stress that's been building up continually out of my mind and relax a little. But still, I could use so much more time.
The more I talk about the trip, the more real it becomes, but yet I still cannot fathom what this new (old) world will be like. I'm excited, but in a different kind of way: without being able to imagine something, it will only become real when I'm actually there. The most exciting part, by a long shot, is (hopefully) meeting some cousins who live in/near the same old town where my Grandma spent a good deal of time when she was young. I've learned more about my Great Grandfather in the past week than I had ever known before--the trip has already shown its incredible value and I haven't gone anywhere yet.
Tonight I was debating out loud with my manager whether or not I should buy into the wine kitty. He feels very strongly that I should. I'm still luke-warm on it since it won't include any beer...they do have good beer in Europe, yes? It's not that far from Ireland, I should hope the Guinness is fresh. Hmmmmmmm...
Tonight I went to a BBQ for my company and it was a really nice time to get to meet the significant others of my co-workers (those I haven't met before) and some co-workers are in from out-of-town. I finally was able to place much of the stress that's been building up continually out of my mind and relax a little. But still, I could use so much more time.
The more I talk about the trip, the more real it becomes, but yet I still cannot fathom what this new (old) world will be like. I'm excited, but in a different kind of way: without being able to imagine something, it will only become real when I'm actually there. The most exciting part, by a long shot, is (hopefully) meeting some cousins who live in/near the same old town where my Grandma spent a good deal of time when she was young. I've learned more about my Great Grandfather in the past week than I had ever known before--the trip has already shown its incredible value and I haven't gone anywhere yet.
Tonight I was debating out loud with my manager whether or not I should buy into the wine kitty. He feels very strongly that I should. I'm still luke-warm on it since it won't include any beer...they do have good beer in Europe, yes? It's not that far from Ireland, I should hope the Guinness is fresh. Hmmmmmmm...
Friday, August 21, 2009
Packing Day #1
Much of the fun of traveling is thinking about it and preparing for it. Since I have absolutely no idea what to expect, what things will look like, who I will see and interact with, etc., I haven't been spending much time thinking about the trip.
I'd love to report that in the past few months since I decided to go on this trip, that I've learned Italian. No, I've come up short (really short) in that area. I have accumulated a stack of books on Italy and its various regions, its cuisine, history and novels that are love letters to it. Most of the reading I've done dealing with Italy are books finished well before I decided to go there. My main excuse (if that's what it can be considered) is that I've keep incredibly busy with a variety of extracurricular activities of all kinds and work has been full-on as well.
I have accumulated an interesting set of information on this place through jumping around in these books and talking to others who all report they absolutely love it there. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the List, the restaurants of where to eat, landmarks to visit, people to see. I will do my best to see and do everything (as my nature makes me inclined to try) and I'll do my best to blog back as often as possible.
Hopefully the Italian CDs that I've been listening to (yes, I even practice aloud so long as no one is anywhere near to hear me) have leaked into my brain. My iPhone is set to the Italian language. Every standard label on the phone is not translated...I'm beginning to understand. Thank goodness the "Call" button is green and "End Call" is red.
Tonight was the first real prep in the way of trying to pack. REI can hire another employee now that I got through there. The first cut of important things includes wipes that work in place of a shower (I trust I won't need them, but you never know), a very fun toothbrush holder that incorporates toothpaste and a skirt that is below my knees--so as to gain admittance to the Vatican and nearby venues. No knees or shoulders showing. I'm hoping it'll be cooler temps there then than it is right now.
I've been told to watch the movie "Angels & Demons" for a view of Vatican City and Rome. This afternoon I did a movie search and it turns out that tonight was the very last showing of the movie anywhere in Denver. So I ran up to the theater to catch it after REI. Yes, I saw more of Rome/Vatican City than I've ever seen before.
Did I mention that this trip is going to include a lot of bike riding? Yep, lots. I've never put in so few miles as I have in the past few weeks. Between racing crits at the end of July and a lot of random distractions, the miles have not been adding up. Thank goodness Italy is at sea level. The oxygen will make up for the fitness I've lost recently.
Time to get some sleep. The one thing I need more than anything else as I leave: a 100% immune system which includes not being overly tired, fatigued or stressed.
I'd love to report that in the past few months since I decided to go on this trip, that I've learned Italian. No, I've come up short (really short) in that area. I have accumulated a stack of books on Italy and its various regions, its cuisine, history and novels that are love letters to it. Most of the reading I've done dealing with Italy are books finished well before I decided to go there. My main excuse (if that's what it can be considered) is that I've keep incredibly busy with a variety of extracurricular activities of all kinds and work has been full-on as well.
I have accumulated an interesting set of information on this place through jumping around in these books and talking to others who all report they absolutely love it there. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the List, the restaurants of where to eat, landmarks to visit, people to see. I will do my best to see and do everything (as my nature makes me inclined to try) and I'll do my best to blog back as often as possible.
Hopefully the Italian CDs that I've been listening to (yes, I even practice aloud so long as no one is anywhere near to hear me) have leaked into my brain. My iPhone is set to the Italian language. Every standard label on the phone is not translated...I'm beginning to understand. Thank goodness the "Call" button is green and "End Call" is red.
Tonight was the first real prep in the way of trying to pack. REI can hire another employee now that I got through there. The first cut of important things includes wipes that work in place of a shower (I trust I won't need them, but you never know), a very fun toothbrush holder that incorporates toothpaste and a skirt that is below my knees--so as to gain admittance to the Vatican and nearby venues. No knees or shoulders showing. I'm hoping it'll be cooler temps there then than it is right now.
I've been told to watch the movie "Angels & Demons" for a view of Vatican City and Rome. This afternoon I did a movie search and it turns out that tonight was the very last showing of the movie anywhere in Denver. So I ran up to the theater to catch it after REI. Yes, I saw more of Rome/Vatican City than I've ever seen before.
Did I mention that this trip is going to include a lot of bike riding? Yep, lots. I've never put in so few miles as I have in the past few weeks. Between racing crits at the end of July and a lot of random distractions, the miles have not been adding up. Thank goodness Italy is at sea level. The oxygen will make up for the fitness I've lost recently.
Time to get some sleep. The one thing I need more than anything else as I leave: a 100% immune system which includes not being overly tired, fatigued or stressed.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Back to Blogging
Buongiorno!
Keep watching this blog...it'll become far more interesting very soon. There have been many adventures since the last post, just *no* time to write anything here.
Ciao!
Keep watching this blog...it'll become far more interesting very soon. There have been many adventures since the last post, just *no* time to write anything here.
Ciao!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Something to Share...Love or Infatuation
I've been too busy to blog, short updates on Facebook have been just about as much as I can squeak out. Tonight I finally got a chance to sit down and clean out some old papers and things that make an otherwise tidy home not so tidy. I ran across an article that is so well written & I think a lot of people could benefit from it. Regardless, I want to hang onto it, so best way to do that is to record it here...so I can go back and read it.
Old Love Advice Bears Repeating, by Ann Landers
Love or Infatuation?
Infatuation is instant desire. It is one set of glands calling to another. Love is friendship that has caught fire. It takes root and grows--one day at a time.
Infatuation is marked by a feeling of insecurity. You are excited and eager, but not genuinely happy. There are nagging doubts, unanswered questions, little bits and pieces about your beloved that you would just as soon not examine too closely. It might spoil the dream.
Love is quiet understanding and the mature acceptance of imperfection. It is real. It gives you strength and grows beyond you--to bolster your beloved. You are warmed by his presence, even when he is away. Miles do nt separate you. You want him nearer. But near or far, you know he is yours and you can wait.
Infatuation says, "We must get married right away. I can't risk losing him."
Love says, "Be patient. Don't panic. He is yours. Plan your future with confidence."
Infatuation has an element of sexual excitement. If you are honest, you will admit it is difficult to be in one another's company unless you are sure it will end in intimacy. Love is the maturation of friendship. You must be friends before you can be lovers.
Infatuation lacks confidence. When he's away, you wonder if he's cheating. Sometimes you even check.
Love means trust. You are calm, secure and unthreatened. He feels that trust, and it makes him even more trustworthy.
Infatuation might lead you to do things you'll regret later, but love never will.
Love is an upper. It makes you look up. It makes you think up. It makes you a better person than you were before.
Old Love Advice Bears Repeating, by Ann Landers
Love or Infatuation?
Infatuation is instant desire. It is one set of glands calling to another. Love is friendship that has caught fire. It takes root and grows--one day at a time.
Infatuation is marked by a feeling of insecurity. You are excited and eager, but not genuinely happy. There are nagging doubts, unanswered questions, little bits and pieces about your beloved that you would just as soon not examine too closely. It might spoil the dream.
Love is quiet understanding and the mature acceptance of imperfection. It is real. It gives you strength and grows beyond you--to bolster your beloved. You are warmed by his presence, even when he is away. Miles do nt separate you. You want him nearer. But near or far, you know he is yours and you can wait.
Infatuation says, "We must get married right away. I can't risk losing him."
Love says, "Be patient. Don't panic. He is yours. Plan your future with confidence."
Infatuation has an element of sexual excitement. If you are honest, you will admit it is difficult to be in one another's company unless you are sure it will end in intimacy. Love is the maturation of friendship. You must be friends before you can be lovers.
Infatuation lacks confidence. When he's away, you wonder if he's cheating. Sometimes you even check.
Love means trust. You are calm, secure and unthreatened. He feels that trust, and it makes him even more trustworthy.
Infatuation might lead you to do things you'll regret later, but love never will.
Love is an upper. It makes you look up. It makes you think up. It makes you a better person than you were before.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
Blogging Vacation
Hi out there in blogland to those of you who haven't given up on my blog (I understand if you have). The extent of journaling on this trip so far has reached as far as a few Facebook status updates. It's a good sign, though, it means I haven't been attached too much to the computer.
I'm back east, visiting family and friends and I've also incorporated in three days of work with my boss...so it hasn't eaten up my very valuable vacation time which needs to be saved for an end of summer trip to Italy (yes, Italy, finally...the plane tix are bought, I'm going).
I've squeezed quite a lot into the time out here. I arrived last Thursday (it was a fully day of travel to get to my uncle's place near Princeton), but dinner at Whole Foods was wonderful. Friday we had breakfast in Lambertville (sort of the standard first day of the trip fare) and then got on our bikes and rode around Princeton taking tote paths most of the way. Spring time is here with the beautiful blossoms and even though there aren't any leaves on the trees, it's still so green.
Saturday we rode bikes in Manhattan. We were on the 7 am Staten Island ferry and had Wall Street, Ground Zero and SoHo to ourselves, it was awesome. Unc took lots of photos, so I'll be sure to post them when I get a copy. Then we headed uptown to Cafe Lalo for breakfast. A good place to let our wet riding clothes dry out some...yes, between the surreal, warm riding just after we disembarked the ferry to 83rd, it started to rain a bit. By the time we got to Lalo, it was coming down.
I had a haircut appt 30 blocks south of Cafe Lalo at my favorite hair place ever, Ouidad. They specialize in curly hair and when they send you out with newly cut hair there isn't a frizzy hair in sight (and yes, your hair is styled curly which I have yet to see any other salon do successfully).
Terrible to have salon-beautiful hair on a rainy day, but I did get to enjoy it quite awhile because after the cut, getting back on the bikes wasn't an option with the rain and cold. We found a nice hang out area next to Nike Town and near the Apple store & spent a few hours reading and relaxing.
Finally, the rain did subside and we jumped back on the bikes and took the bike path that runs down the east side of the city back to the ferry. The moment the sun came out, it was warm and made for a beautiful evening. Dinner was at On the Border (I wasn't hungry) and it left just enough time for me to make the Easter Vigil mass at a church not far from home.
Easter Sunday was a magnificent morning! The sun was up, not a cloud in the sky (it was windy and cold, but that hardly detracted from the beauty of the day). I attended a 10 am Easter mass at the same church (I really enjoyed the community of people who I saw there, everyone seemed close). There was a visible lack of people between the ages of 25-40. Unc and I took a hike later in the day that was close to three hours, I love hiking in woods and it's close to where he lives.
Monday I woke up insanely early (4:30 am EST, ouch) to go to the gym for a spin class and then get to NYC where I caught a bus to Boston. $19 one way for a 4 hr 15 minute ride to Boston. What a deal! Everyone on the bus was my age or college age (a refreshing change) and the driver was cool. That bus had wi-fi on it so I played on the computer, did a little work, the time flew by fast.
I met up with Juliet (friend from college) at her place, very cool! The architecture of the homes and apartments out here can't be beat. Not a square room in sight (not that I mind my square home, but non-square ones w/o carpet are automatically cool). We went for lunch at a place just down the street...they served wraps with rice and different veggies/fillers and white flour wasn't an option, white rice wasn't either. Yummy!
We wandered on over to MIT and she toured me around the place. You should see the architecture! The coolest was seeing their hacks. Basically, the school is proud of the pranks the students put together. And these are the most creative, technically able group of students so watch out, they do some crazy stuff! Check this out: http://hacks.mit.edu/misc/best_of.html
Her finance joined us, then, we wandered through a huge cool park (I know it has a name, I just am not sure of it) and saw some great really old neighborhoods (around Beacon Hill) and ended up with really great Vietnamese food. This may be my first Vietnamese dinner and I'm already looing forward to the next one. Tasted good and was light, just how I like dinner to be.
Then they saw me off on the subway that took me out to near where Erica (friend from middle school) lives. She also lives in a cool place with no square rooms. It was late at that point so we didn't have tons of time to catch up, but I've stayed with her all week (and I've been working with my boss who lives near here) so the visiting time has been great.
Today she took the day off from work, we're going to see the sights, I'll report more later & post pics. The sun is shining here and it should be 70 degrees today.
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