It's up. It's down. It's all about supply and demand. Buying air fare is like buying shares in the stock market. It is so difficult (and scary) to know when to jump in and buy. Everything is timing. And like the stock market, you don't want to buy (when the price is) high.
For lack of a better hobby, I've been studying air fare prices to popular destinations over the last couple of years. It's interesting. Ok, interesting in a patterning and nerdy kind of way.
The pattern I have seen is that each airline has a baseline, a standard, fair price to each route. Then, depending on when you buy, it can be more or less expensive than the baseline.
Let's say, for example that a one way fare price is $200 (plus taxes and fees). You might see that price available 5 months in advance of the route. But the closer you get to the travel date, you will see the fare go up and down. Whether it's called a "seat sale" or a price adjustment or whatever, it doesn't matter. So suddenly you might be looking at the airfare price 3 months out and it's $169. It's now up to you knowing it could go lower, and for certain it will go back up. What you need to determine is what price you will be happy at. Are you a gambler? How low will it go? Will you kick yourself if it goes up to $240?
One thing you can be sure of , is that if there is a national/calendar holiday, demand for air fares around that date will be higher than average. (ie. Thanksgiving) So, if you wish to find a bargain, you need to book early, or be prepared to book an alternate date for your flight. Sometimes it's as easy as looking at the day before or the day after your first choice.
I record the lowest price I've ever seen on a particular route and keep that in mind if I plan to buy. For example, a one way flight from Winnipeg to Vancouver is generally around $200, but sometimes it is offered at $149. The best I've ever seen is $124. So, with that knowledge in mind, I would be able to make better bargain-hunting decisions.
Air Canada is the only airline, that I use that offers to send you automated fare alerts for prices that you can set yourself. For example, if you receive their monthly newsletters and sales, you can pre-set your preferences. You may choose 4 or 5 different routes to watch. You set your price and it e-mails you every time your specified price is met on a route! It's much easier than checking prices yourself daily. I have an alert for Winnipeg to Maui. If the one way fare price falls to $249 I receive an e-mail. Getting that cheery e-mail is a nice pick me up on an average ho-hum day even if I can't go to Maui.
I have always found the best air fare prices are purchases directly from the airline. And when you use their website, there are no ticketing fees (except for Allegiant who charges about $17 each to book on-line) with the big airlines like Delta, Air Canada and West Jet.
The best prices, in general, are for average, boring days like Tuesdays or Saturdays, NOT around national holidays and are purchased between 6 and 8 weeks in advance of the flight. But it's all ultimately up to the individual buying the air fare. What blend of date, time and price is right for you?
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
You know it's time for a break when....
I've been burning the candle at both ends for a while now. I'm pretty durable and can take quite a bit. But the last week, I've had a couple of clear indicators that I need to slow it down a bit.
You know you're tired when... finally get home, sit down at the end of your work day and pour a cup of tea and open a chocolate bar and the next thing you know you wake up (still sitting upright on the couch) because the dog is licking the uneaten chocolate bar in your hand. And you're first thought is... "what time is it? 4AM? Oh good, I can still get a few things done before I go back to work."
You know you're tired when.... your son asks you to lie down in his bed and read him a book and the next thing you know you're awake, it's pitch black, you've just cranked your head on the top bunk and you have no idea what the hell just happened. But... there's a book on the floor and a sleeping child and you piece it together.
You know you're tired when.... you look forward to using the bathroom because at least it's a break.
You know you're tired when... your truck's fuel indicator light flashes "low gas" warning and urges you to refuel and you reply out loud, "yeah well I'm running on empty too. Shut up. You're going to have to wait."
But for me the most laughable indicator was last night. I was home in the evening, during daylight (rare!) and I looked outside the kitchen window and let out a gasp and a little scream. My husband "what's the matter? " And before I could even think I said "I thought I saw a lion." Yes. I am an idiot. For a split second there I thought I saw a small male lion stalking my pasture. I am exhausted. I am an idiot. It was my miniature horse, Sunny, who has lived here "forever" and walked past my window "a million times." I laugh even writing this. Yeah, but he LOOKED like a lion... oh, nevermind.
Now if only I could get some rest, a new chocolate bar and a day off, I'm sure I'd be good as new.
You know you're tired when... finally get home, sit down at the end of your work day and pour a cup of tea and open a chocolate bar and the next thing you know you wake up (still sitting upright on the couch) because the dog is licking the uneaten chocolate bar in your hand. And you're first thought is... "what time is it? 4AM? Oh good, I can still get a few things done before I go back to work."
You know you're tired when.... your son asks you to lie down in his bed and read him a book and the next thing you know you're awake, it's pitch black, you've just cranked your head on the top bunk and you have no idea what the hell just happened. But... there's a book on the floor and a sleeping child and you piece it together.
You know you're tired when.... you look forward to using the bathroom because at least it's a break.
You know you're tired when... your truck's fuel indicator light flashes "low gas" warning and urges you to refuel and you reply out loud, "yeah well I'm running on empty too. Shut up. You're going to have to wait."
But for me the most laughable indicator was last night. I was home in the evening, during daylight (rare!) and I looked outside the kitchen window and let out a gasp and a little scream. My husband "what's the matter? " And before I could even think I said "I thought I saw a lion." Yes. I am an idiot. For a split second there I thought I saw a small male lion stalking my pasture. I am exhausted. I am an idiot. It was my miniature horse, Sunny, who has lived here "forever" and walked past my window "a million times." I laugh even writing this. Yeah, but he LOOKED like a lion... oh, nevermind.
Now if only I could get some rest, a new chocolate bar and a day off, I'm sure I'd be good as new.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
The boy & his mansion
My son has a clear and focused vision for his future. In fact his daydreaming is so clear that he's asked me to write down details and shopping lists for his future home.
The way he sees it, he's going to be a rich, professional hockey player with a beach house. He calls it "the mansion." As in, "Mom, get my book. We're going to write about my mansion." Or, "If you make me eat that (corned beef) sandwich, I'm not going to let you live in the mansion!"
Funny how kids get ideas and some are fleeting thoughts, and others - like this one - last for weeks and weeks. We've discussed it at bedtime. We've discussed it first thing in the morning. He's discussed it with his grandparents and at the grocery store. He's even got me talking about it, at work and here too.
The mansion sounds like a pretty great place. We're going to have a 9 car garage; 8 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. There will be a breakfast room, a disco room, a quiet room for reading, an indoor pool, a games room and.... well, you get the picture.
Somedays CJ plans to have lots of staff. A maid, a cook, a driver, a bartender and several security guards. Though other days he's in a mood and starts cutting staff. If I'm current on his mood swing, I think it's just the bartender we're keeping. I lobbied for the maid, but for whatever reason, CJ wants to keep the bartender. Or do I say "bartender/driver/lunch cook/pool boy." It seems this person better be a jack of all trades and want to work very hard.
That's another interesting point of note, CJ doesn't want me to work. He says in the future his mom will just sleep, read, hang out on the beach and go to his hockey games. Someday I intend to ask why he doesn't want me to work in the future. But for right now I'll choose to believe that he is acknowledging the fact that I am working so many hours right now and perhaps he even misses me. It's also very rewarding to be included in his daydreams. I'm so very lucky that he wants me in his life and in his future. What a great kid!
The way he sees it, he's going to be a rich, professional hockey player with a beach house. He calls it "the mansion." As in, "Mom, get my book. We're going to write about my mansion." Or, "If you make me eat that (corned beef) sandwich, I'm not going to let you live in the mansion!"
Funny how kids get ideas and some are fleeting thoughts, and others - like this one - last for weeks and weeks. We've discussed it at bedtime. We've discussed it first thing in the morning. He's discussed it with his grandparents and at the grocery store. He's even got me talking about it, at work and here too.
The mansion sounds like a pretty great place. We're going to have a 9 car garage; 8 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. There will be a breakfast room, a disco room, a quiet room for reading, an indoor pool, a games room and.... well, you get the picture.
Somedays CJ plans to have lots of staff. A maid, a cook, a driver, a bartender and several security guards. Though other days he's in a mood and starts cutting staff. If I'm current on his mood swing, I think it's just the bartender we're keeping. I lobbied for the maid, but for whatever reason, CJ wants to keep the bartender. Or do I say "bartender/driver/lunch cook/pool boy." It seems this person better be a jack of all trades and want to work very hard.
That's another interesting point of note, CJ doesn't want me to work. He says in the future his mom will just sleep, read, hang out on the beach and go to his hockey games. Someday I intend to ask why he doesn't want me to work in the future. But for right now I'll choose to believe that he is acknowledging the fact that I am working so many hours right now and perhaps he even misses me. It's also very rewarding to be included in his daydreams. I'm so very lucky that he wants me in his life and in his future. What a great kid!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Hello Hawaii
Air Canada, one of the world's best airlines, has very recently settled their union contract with CUPE. As a way of thanking customers for their patience & continued patronage, they are currently offering a 15% off deal anywhere they fly. Offer must be booked by Sept 25.
Check out this little gem of a deal: December 5-12 Maui for $598 tax in; return! Now I won't be going... but you might want to!! Check out anywhere and everywhere they fly this fall at 15% off by typing FLYDEC15 into the promo box.
I do expect that Westjet will match the offer tomorrow. Tee hee! I love this kind of stuff.
Check out this little gem of a deal: December 5-12 Maui for $598 tax in; return! Now I won't be going... but you might want to!! Check out anywhere and everywhere they fly this fall at 15% off by typing FLYDEC15 into the promo box.
I do expect that Westjet will match the offer tomorrow. Tee hee! I love this kind of stuff.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
My First Man Trip
I've always liked football. Actually, it's pretty much all team sports. I've always watched and enjoyed, discussed and attended sporting events. It's the way I was raised. I share these interests with my brother and it's one of our strongest links as siblings.
I grew up watching NFL football and have admired many players for their incredible talent. Dan Marino & the Miami Dolphins, Steve Young and the San Francisco 49s and Brett Favre and the Green Bay Packers were some of my most favourite quarterbacks and teams.
When I started to travel more intensely, as an adult, I began to pursue "life experiences" rather that vacations or mere casual vacation activities. Meaning that I decided I could travel for an event or a specific activity NOT just because it was my holiday time or I had casual interest in a destination.
So when Brett Favre came out of retirement for the 2nd time and announced his intention to play with the Minnesota Vikings, I decided that I was going to see him play live. It took some research and preparation. After all... the greatest (my opinion and that of many others) quarterback of all time was going to play just one more season. I had to see it! There was a huge buzz and very quickly Minnesota Vikings games were selling out all over the country.
My next step was to analyze the schedule and see where they played that would suit my work schedule. I then narrowed it down to "away games" and cities that I had interest in seeing. There was no way I was going to freeze my ass in chicago in the middle of winter to see ANY football player. So... Arizona it was! Arizona is also an ideal location as with their slumping economy and desire for tourists, flights are cheap and so are accommodations. Not that I want to take advantage of anyone in a down turned economy, it simply makes sense to visit and offer them any little boost I can.
So I decided that I would start planning in earnest. I talked to my brother and he thought it was a great idea. I then picked up a pair of club seats off of Stub hub. (My friends & I have used this service numerous times and never got burned. It's fabulous for grabbing the seats you want when you want them.) Club seats.... they deserve a column of their own! Though, in short, my theory is that if the difference in the best seats and the "nosebleed" seats is $50. YOU HAVE TO GET THE GOOD SEATS. Especially if this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience or you are travelling for an event. Sit in the good seats!
I should mention that with club seats, in Arizona anyway, you get access to the building and lounges 3 hours pre-game. You get to see the teams warm up and you get to chill and enjoy the atmosphere before the flood gates open and the other 60,000 people get in. (So worth it!)
Anyways, when my brother & I go on Man Trips we get a 2 bedroom condo or something similar. The Marriott (Towne brand) chain is good for these types of rooms as well. There are a number of "long stay" kitchenette type rooms that you can get at a reasonable price.
Flights weren't hard to get either. We simply searched our dates regularly until they came to a typical sale price for the route & then pounced!
I think in the end we stayed 4 days in Phoenix/Glendale. We took in a Coyotes game (I'd highly recommend it) and THE GAME. I LOVED the whole NFL experience. It was like absolutely nothing I'd ever done. When 65,000 people are all cheering, it moves you. You feel the vibrations right through your ribs and into your core. It's like being a part of one big surreal experience. And never mind the tailgating. OMG I had no idea they were THAT serious about tailgating. Keith and I showed up 3.5 hours before the event, thinking we'd be able to take in the whole atmosphere and really it seemed like we were the LAST people to arrive before the game. Crowds arrived pre-dawn it seemed to stake out their spot and set up their elaborate BBQ stations. Plus there were bands playing and people tossing around footballs. It seemed that the Sunday night NFL game was a 12 hour experience for Arizona fans.
Ultimately, I got to see my favourite QB play. The game and weekend were amazing. And there began my love for the Man Trip. Why do I call it a Man Trip? Because Keith & I went, just as a couple of buddies, going to see a game. No kids, no pressure, no shopping, no whining, no fancy clothes. Just a couple buddies, a couple beers and a couple games. Ah, the Man Trip. When can I go again?
I grew up watching NFL football and have admired many players for their incredible talent. Dan Marino & the Miami Dolphins, Steve Young and the San Francisco 49s and Brett Favre and the Green Bay Packers were some of my most favourite quarterbacks and teams.
When I started to travel more intensely, as an adult, I began to pursue "life experiences" rather that vacations or mere casual vacation activities. Meaning that I decided I could travel for an event or a specific activity NOT just because it was my holiday time or I had casual interest in a destination.
So when Brett Favre came out of retirement for the 2nd time and announced his intention to play with the Minnesota Vikings, I decided that I was going to see him play live. It took some research and preparation. After all... the greatest (my opinion and that of many others) quarterback of all time was going to play just one more season. I had to see it! There was a huge buzz and very quickly Minnesota Vikings games were selling out all over the country.
My next step was to analyze the schedule and see where they played that would suit my work schedule. I then narrowed it down to "away games" and cities that I had interest in seeing. There was no way I was going to freeze my ass in chicago in the middle of winter to see ANY football player. So... Arizona it was! Arizona is also an ideal location as with their slumping economy and desire for tourists, flights are cheap and so are accommodations. Not that I want to take advantage of anyone in a down turned economy, it simply makes sense to visit and offer them any little boost I can.
So I decided that I would start planning in earnest. I talked to my brother and he thought it was a great idea. I then picked up a pair of club seats off of Stub hub. (My friends & I have used this service numerous times and never got burned. It's fabulous for grabbing the seats you want when you want them.) Club seats.... they deserve a column of their own! Though, in short, my theory is that if the difference in the best seats and the "nosebleed" seats is $50. YOU HAVE TO GET THE GOOD SEATS. Especially if this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience or you are travelling for an event. Sit in the good seats!
I should mention that with club seats, in Arizona anyway, you get access to the building and lounges 3 hours pre-game. You get to see the teams warm up and you get to chill and enjoy the atmosphere before the flood gates open and the other 60,000 people get in. (So worth it!)
Anyways, when my brother & I go on Man Trips we get a 2 bedroom condo or something similar. The Marriott (Towne brand) chain is good for these types of rooms as well. There are a number of "long stay" kitchenette type rooms that you can get at a reasonable price.
Flights weren't hard to get either. We simply searched our dates regularly until they came to a typical sale price for the route & then pounced!
I think in the end we stayed 4 days in Phoenix/Glendale. We took in a Coyotes game (I'd highly recommend it) and THE GAME. I LOVED the whole NFL experience. It was like absolutely nothing I'd ever done. When 65,000 people are all cheering, it moves you. You feel the vibrations right through your ribs and into your core. It's like being a part of one big surreal experience. And never mind the tailgating. OMG I had no idea they were THAT serious about tailgating. Keith and I showed up 3.5 hours before the event, thinking we'd be able to take in the whole atmosphere and really it seemed like we were the LAST people to arrive before the game. Crowds arrived pre-dawn it seemed to stake out their spot and set up their elaborate BBQ stations. Plus there were bands playing and people tossing around footballs. It seemed that the Sunday night NFL game was a 12 hour experience for Arizona fans.
Ultimately, I got to see my favourite QB play. The game and weekend were amazing. And there began my love for the Man Trip. Why do I call it a Man Trip? Because Keith & I went, just as a couple of buddies, going to see a game. No kids, no pressure, no shopping, no whining, no fancy clothes. Just a couple buddies, a couple beers and a couple games. Ah, the Man Trip. When can I go again?
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Why 19" is better than 20"
I love to travel. The more trips I can squeeze out of my limited travel budget the better. I love the 5 star trip at the 2 star price. But every year there seem to be more and more surcharges levied by the airlines. My point is clearly illustrated by Air Canada's recent announcement to charge $25 per checked bag. This is inline with what other carriers, like Delta, have been doing for a while. Discount carriers that have come on the scene, like Allegiant Air, have many surcharges, checked bags being just one of them.
So, to maximize my travel budget I've gotten used to travelling with just a carry on bag. Not only used to it, I'm almost dictator-like when it comes to family vacations. In fact, we travelled to Hawaii on Delta airlines last Christmas and got the bargain of a lifetime on the flights. I was not going to mess with my accomplishment by checking 4 bags and forking over another $200 to Delta. That $200 was instead spent on surfing lessons. Easy to see that surfing provides a better family memory versus toting extra clothes across the country.
So how do we do it? How did we spend 8 nights in Hawaii with only check-on bags? Well here are my top 5 secrets to packing light and efficiently.
1) Only bring it if you really love wearing it and it can be worn in at least 2 different outfits.
2) Jumbo ziploc bags. Roll everything, stuff in jumbo ziplocs and take the air out. This is also easy & tidy if customs/security wants to search your bag.
3) Wear you most bulky items on the plane. For example, the one sweater, pair of jeans & walking shoes you are bringing on the trip.
4) Know in advance if your hotel/resort has guest laundry facilities. I would MUCH rather do one load of laundry halfway thru the trip than haul twice the clothes.
5) Know your airline rules for liquids, bag size, etc. Etc. The more you know in advance the better.
The reason I say 19 inches is better than 20 is that while most airlines allow the little wheely rectangular 20 inch suitcases as your carry on, they often get stuffed to the zippers and can bulk up past the allowable size. When they ask you to measure it in their metal sample thingy at the airline counter, you can get busted and be asked to check it. When you have to check at the counter the prices go up. For example, if you pre-pay your bag on Allegiant when you are booking the flight it's $35, but if you have to check it when you get to the counter it's $50.
Also, budget and regional carriers are flying planes like the MD88 or MD90 series. A great plane, but limited overhead space. So again, if you can't jam it in the overhead bin, or you are late boarding the plane... guess what.... you're checking it now.
Many of the luggage makers are now producing a compact 19" model that looks just the same as the industry standard 20 inches. These bags at a good sale price are under $50 to buy. And you'll slide in nicely at the measuring device and look like a pro.
Follow my carry on advice and you'll never get stuck at the baggage carousel waiting for bags that arrive damaged or 30 minutes after you do. You'll grab the first cab and be on the beach in no time.
So, to maximize my travel budget I've gotten used to travelling with just a carry on bag. Not only used to it, I'm almost dictator-like when it comes to family vacations. In fact, we travelled to Hawaii on Delta airlines last Christmas and got the bargain of a lifetime on the flights. I was not going to mess with my accomplishment by checking 4 bags and forking over another $200 to Delta. That $200 was instead spent on surfing lessons. Easy to see that surfing provides a better family memory versus toting extra clothes across the country.
So how do we do it? How did we spend 8 nights in Hawaii with only check-on bags? Well here are my top 5 secrets to packing light and efficiently.
1) Only bring it if you really love wearing it and it can be worn in at least 2 different outfits.
2) Jumbo ziploc bags. Roll everything, stuff in jumbo ziplocs and take the air out. This is also easy & tidy if customs/security wants to search your bag.
3) Wear you most bulky items on the plane. For example, the one sweater, pair of jeans & walking shoes you are bringing on the trip.
4) Know in advance if your hotel/resort has guest laundry facilities. I would MUCH rather do one load of laundry halfway thru the trip than haul twice the clothes.
5) Know your airline rules for liquids, bag size, etc. Etc. The more you know in advance the better.
The reason I say 19 inches is better than 20 is that while most airlines allow the little wheely rectangular 20 inch suitcases as your carry on, they often get stuffed to the zippers and can bulk up past the allowable size. When they ask you to measure it in their metal sample thingy at the airline counter, you can get busted and be asked to check it. When you have to check at the counter the prices go up. For example, if you pre-pay your bag on Allegiant when you are booking the flight it's $35, but if you have to check it when you get to the counter it's $50.
Also, budget and regional carriers are flying planes like the MD88 or MD90 series. A great plane, but limited overhead space. So again, if you can't jam it in the overhead bin, or you are late boarding the plane... guess what.... you're checking it now.
Many of the luggage makers are now producing a compact 19" model that looks just the same as the industry standard 20 inches. These bags at a good sale price are under $50 to buy. And you'll slide in nicely at the measuring device and look like a pro.
Follow my carry on advice and you'll never get stuck at the baggage carousel waiting for bags that arrive damaged or 30 minutes after you do. You'll grab the first cab and be on the beach in no time.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Revealing the lesson
In hardship and in good times there are lessons. Lessons, that help us to grow, understand and witness our true selves. In my life, I am surrounded by many good people. Some masquerade as neighbours, some as employees, some as restaurant customers; but all are friends. I would find it challenging to get through the trying times if I didn't have these people in my life.
Yesterday I learnt a lesson. My own children still need me. Now believe me, this isn't headline news...nor had I ever lost sight of this... I was simply reminded. My youngest appealed to the school secretary that he wasn't feeling well and needed to go home. I was summoned and appeared promptly to gather him up. (Thank goodness for the employee who said she could cover my shift and urged me to leave work.) Behind the "stomach ache" or the bump on the playground ( he couldn't remember which he was concerned of) was simply a desire to be with his mom.
In kindergarten he went to school every second day. As a team, restaurant staff, neighbours, grandparents and friends all helped me juggle work and CJ's off time so we didn't have to put him in day care (and pay for full time and only use half time). We had adventures. There were days when he had to tag along to work with me. There were challenging days but somehow we made it work.
Yesterday his actions told me that he missed our exclusive time together. He wanted his brother and dad to be at school/work and us to just hang out. Truth is I miss it too. But I'm not going to pull him out of school to cuddle. That being noted, it did make me realize how much time I'm dedicated to the restaurant right now. 80+ hours a week and at times it's overwhelming. I'm missing him and I know I'm missing out. Somehow I'll make it up to them this winter when things slow down. Or is that what a classic work-a-holic says? Did I really learn a lesson? How can I make changes in the future? Ultimately, do the kids respect me for working so hard or are we going down a path where we have to pull the team together to make changes?
Yesterday I learnt a lesson. My own children still need me. Now believe me, this isn't headline news...nor had I ever lost sight of this... I was simply reminded. My youngest appealed to the school secretary that he wasn't feeling well and needed to go home. I was summoned and appeared promptly to gather him up. (Thank goodness for the employee who said she could cover my shift and urged me to leave work.) Behind the "stomach ache" or the bump on the playground ( he couldn't remember which he was concerned of) was simply a desire to be with his mom.
In kindergarten he went to school every second day. As a team, restaurant staff, neighbours, grandparents and friends all helped me juggle work and CJ's off time so we didn't have to put him in day care (and pay for full time and only use half time). We had adventures. There were days when he had to tag along to work with me. There were challenging days but somehow we made it work.
Yesterday his actions told me that he missed our exclusive time together. He wanted his brother and dad to be at school/work and us to just hang out. Truth is I miss it too. But I'm not going to pull him out of school to cuddle. That being noted, it did make me realize how much time I'm dedicated to the restaurant right now. 80+ hours a week and at times it's overwhelming. I'm missing him and I know I'm missing out. Somehow I'll make it up to them this winter when things slow down. Or is that what a classic work-a-holic says? Did I really learn a lesson? How can I make changes in the future? Ultimately, do the kids respect me for working so hard or are we going down a path where we have to pull the team together to make changes?
Monday, September 12, 2011
Just getting out
Sometimes it isn't about where you're going. Sometimes it's about just getting out!
We get into routines and we get into ruts. The older we get, the tougher it is to make changes. But complacency is no reason or excuse to accept boredom. You've got to grab life by the nads and try something new.
September is an absolutely fantastic month to try something new. The kids are back in school. They've got a fresh start.... so why not you too? Is this the season for you to try a cooking class? What about going dancing one night? Or even doing your makeup different?
If you're not buying into this philosophy, how about a baby step? If you always eat your french fries with ketchup, try them with gravy and cheese instead. Or take a different route to work - grab coffee from a new place? I had a hazelnut coffee the other day instead of my regular vanilla latte. It was nice.
Don't settle for your rut. Get out of your comfy place and find something that gets your blood rushing again.
We get into routines and we get into ruts. The older we get, the tougher it is to make changes. But complacency is no reason or excuse to accept boredom. You've got to grab life by the nads and try something new.
September is an absolutely fantastic month to try something new. The kids are back in school. They've got a fresh start.... so why not you too? Is this the season for you to try a cooking class? What about going dancing one night? Or even doing your makeup different?
If you're not buying into this philosophy, how about a baby step? If you always eat your french fries with ketchup, try them with gravy and cheese instead. Or take a different route to work - grab coffee from a new place? I had a hazelnut coffee the other day instead of my regular vanilla latte. It was nice.
Don't settle for your rut. Get out of your comfy place and find something that gets your blood rushing again.
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