Best of 2012

Glass of wine in hand. Reflection goggles on! So, here goes! In no particular order. With no particular thought to the categories.

Best Vacation:  Atlantis hotel, Bahamas  October 2012.  Because... I feel at home there. I breathe deeply, rest thoroughly and am happy. And it's super fun and awesome and amazing! (Photo at left. That's my favourite pool.)

Best Day at Work:  The day my Uncle Baldur walked in to say hello. (September ?) Because... I was exhausted, it was about 8PM, I was sitting in a corner and finally eating my dinner. I was in a zombie state, reading the newspaper... then I heard a familiar voice at the counter. I jumped up and squealed like a cheerleader at the championships. So happy!!! He's one of my favourite people on this earth and I hadn't seen him in years. What a great surprise!

Best Meal:  (August) Dinner at Bacio. It's an italian restaurant at the Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas. Twice I've eaten there. Two of the best meals of my entire life. It's not very expensive. The food is beyond delicious. The setting is intimate. The staff is fantastic. The celebrity chef, Carla Pellegrino has been in the kitchen (her restaurant) both visits. She's amazing. Seriously, I would go to Vegas just to eat there again! (@chefcarlapelleg) She has recently opened another restaurant @meatballspot which is also in Vegas. I think I better try it out in 2013!

Best Kiss:  (November 18th, 2012) We were looking at puppies. We were there to see a pup named Rookie and this other little black and white scamp flew past me and slurped my hand. She got my attention. Then she sat and captivated with her "pick me" eyes. I lifted her up and she kissed my cheek. My girl.... Bella. I've been getting puppy kisses 6 weeks now. I'm pleased to report that Rookie also found her right people and also has a forever home.

Best News: (March) My mom was strong enough to leave the hospital and head home. Home is always the best place to be.

Best Wine:  This year I found that I really like Apothic Red. Full bodied and holds its own with any meal. I like it with lasagna. It's good with dark chocolate and sea salt Ghiradelli chocolates too. Mmmm.

Best Photo: (November) I like this one. My friend Karen and I were being tourists in her home town. I loved our days together. This photo reminds me of her. I like to think the future holds Blue Skies for both of us.

Best Kid Time: (May) I took my older son on a hockey road trip of nearly 700 miles. We laughed and got to really know each other. It was just the two of us and I'll never forget it. I believe the Under Armour outlet at the shopping centre will remember us too!! We nearly bought the place out! (February) My younger boy and I played hours of shinny together on our ice rink. We took iphone videos of our antics. He says I play like a first year novice (that's not exactly a compliment!) Boy did we laugh hard that day! It was one of his favourite days too.

Best Sleep: (October) Sheraton Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia.  We were on a layover, sponsored by Delta Airlines. They comp'd us 2 rooms adjoining. Each of us had our own queen-sized, sweet sleeper bed. We had had the greatest adventure that day, were well fed and were completely exhausted from the day. All four of us slept like kings!

Best Chance Meeting:  (November) I was shopping at a market in North Vancouver, in a little boutique. I was admiring the purses for sale when the "clerk" let me know that she was indeed the purse designer and just minding the store that day for a friend. We got to talking and she was one of the most lovely people I've ever met. She makes the purses by hand, using reclaimed leather. She is an immigrant to Canada and just loves life. Each creation has so much thought to the design and clever craftmanship it was impossible not to fall in love with her work. (Yes! That's my purse!)  Of course I bought two purses for myself as my un-birthday, birthday gift! Jola and I have kept in touch and I expect she will be a huge designer once the magazines discover her.

Best Prayer Answered: (April) The lump that I was so scared of, was nothing. It was months of ignoring it. Then weeks of waiting for tests and results. I kept it pretty much to myself. Finally, the test results came in and I sunk to the floor and bawled. I texted the ones who worried along side me, and hugged the girls at work. That was a relief, big time.

Best Advice Received:  You need to make your own happiness. Live life without regrets.

Best Advice to Give: Eat ice cream. Forgive yourself. Tomorrow is a new day. Be open to new adventures!

With that, I toast 2012! Thanks for the memories! Here's hoping 2013 has blue skies, good health and much happiness ahead for all of us!

Fishing for a great hotel deal

So, if you're planning a trip, it's best to do it at least 6 weeks in advance. Between 6-8 weeks out is when you will find your best flight prices.

In getting a hotel deal, I think it's great to go fishing. Fishing? Visit the web sites and test the waters. For example, if you are thinking about a Disney vacation, visit their web site and sign up to receive their emails. Make a few searches for the dates and resorts you are looking for and then "walk away". Don't visit the web site for a couple days. Typically... an offer.... a sweeter deal will arrive in your e-mail inbox in just a few days.

This happened recently for me, on hotwire.com.  Same has happened with Delta Vacations and Air Canada at other times. The cookies your ip address leaves behind with your search, and your e-mail that you voluntarily give them to contact you with offers is all you need to nab a better bargain.

And while I'm not actually going to Newport Beach, Ca those dates, it is certainly helpful to get a baseline of prices so I CAN budget for it and plan for the future should the stars align.

Then again, they might send an offer so sweet I can't say no.

Fast Five Travel Tips: Choosing a Hotel

Most vacations include a hotel stay. Choosing a hotel can be a big deal, especially if you are vacationing as a family. Each person has their own wants and needs. There's a budget involved, but most important is often the location. Just like in real estate... location, location, location.

1. First step is to determine what your vacation centres on. Are you spending 5 days at Disneyworld? Would staying on-site being a benefit? Or are you going to the beach, Seaworld, Universal Studios, or a museum? If that's the case, perhaps a central location is a better choice?  Is the hotel just a place to sleep, or do you like to lounge, kick back and rest at the resort?

2. Space. How much space do you need? Are two queen sized beds good enough, do you need bunk beds or a kitchen? What do you need to be comfortable? Most hotels have a pool.... but is it a deal-breaker if yours doesn't?

3. Safety. You need to be safe. It's no bargain if it's a scary, scary neighbourhood.

4. Price. Price takes a fair bit of research. Check all the popular sites... travelocity.ca, hotels.com, expedia.ca, hotwire.com. PLUS check the hotel's own website. They just might have the best price, or perhaps a package that suits your needs. Do you have a AAA card, or military discount? If yes, skip the discount sites and try the hotel itself first.

5. Research! Before you commit, check Tripadvisor.com  The good people of trip advisor offer a wealth of hands on experience, tips and honest reviews. Not everyone will have your tastes or priorities, however, I tend to agree and trust what the majority says.

Christmas Happened

Christmas went pretty much as anticipated. SO, that was good. At least I was prepared for the roller coaster, adventure that is our family Christmas.

Sure enough, I wasted time and precious energy making too many cookies.

We forgot a couple important things at home.

Visits I was enjoying were cut short and the schedule had us running.

Weather was crazy cold, but the boys played outdoor hockey Christmas morning anyways. That's the one tradition we really treasure. It wouldn't be "US" if there wasn't morning hockey.

The uncle bought the kids the best presents.  All hail the popular uncle.

Some relative always makes an off colour, snarky remark that makes you wonder what the heck they were getting at. I chalk it up to the alcohol talking, but still it does bug me. Seems so unnecessary.

I felt super guilty that the dogs were in the kennel and that I neglected to buy them some fancy $20 pet store bone to get them thru the holiday. And while I DID forget to buy a treat for my dogs, I spent a ridiculous amount of money on people food and treats.

I missed my old dog Mocha. Missed her soooo much. For years and years, she spent late nights watching me wrap presents, bake cookies, and fuss with last minute preparations. It really hit me as I thought about leaving cookies and milk out for Santa. I used to leave cookies out on a plate near the fireplace and just leave them. Each Christmas morning the cookies would be gone. Santa? Or my sweet Mocha? She used to sneak over and ever so slyly... steal them. It was our secret.  So, without Mocha, this year, I just couldn't put cookies out. I did however, hang her monogrammed ornaments on the tree to remember her.

There's just too much pressure at Christmas. However, we do it for the kids. And they LOVE it. So, that's what makes it all worthwhile. Turns out they don't even notice the bumps, blemishes and the chaos that I feel.

Christmas Turbulence

Like so many others, I struggle with holidays. Holidays exacerbate the feelings we carry around all the time. When lights are aglow and holiday music plays it just seems to make things so much worse. When I feel dark and gloomy on the inside, a dash of fake holiday syrup isn't going to make it any better.

Commercialism of the holiday is one aspect. Demands, or perceived demands add so much pressure. The pressure is the other thing that gets to me. Is it possible to live up to expectations? Can anything truly be perfect? Probably not. But we try and try, and stress ourselves out immensely in the process.

I have kids. They have constant peer pressure. Then there are the holiday parties for each and every club they belong to. Bring this, make that, donate this, fundraise that. Each year the expectations seem to grow. It all seems overwhelming.

The exception is their school play. It's modest and cheery and the right blend of character building, and fun. I enjoy it every year. The expectation there is to have fun, and to gather in the holiday spirit of community. It's pure and simple. I love it.

The Christmases I have enjoyed the most are the ones we bailed on convention and did our own thing. Took off on a plane and made a real holiday of it. The year we went to Maui was the best. Sun, sand, surf and fish tacos for Christmas dinner. No gifts, no expectations, just family togetherness.

Then there was fake Christmas. I loved fake Christmas too. Cj and I went to Disneyworld in late November. Their decorations and parades and holiday magic were in full effect. For us it was early Christmas. No pressure. No running around splitting time a few hours here, a few hours there. No demands from family. We just hid away from the world and enjoyed the magic of Disney. Some cocoa, a couple cookies, fake snow and a Christmas Mickey toy made it all seem so real, right there in November. Fake Christmas rocked. Ooooh, and their light display. Clark Griswold be ashamed. Disney and their million light display was absolutely second to none.

Did I mention the gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian? That was incredible to see! And smell! The whole experience was awe inspiring. Now of course, I don't think I could handle the crowds of real Christmas at Disney, but I bet it would be incredible still.

But this  year I've got the 400 gifts wrapped (ok, not really 400 but it feels like it) and the dinner crate assembled and ready for the family road trip. We'll bounce from house to house to house spreading ourselves thin (I mean, spreading cheer). We'll exhaust the children and forget things along the way. We'll be accused of being ill mannered for leaving early or showing up late. We'll bring the wrong cookies, forget the wine and in general say the wrong things. I'll bite my tongue, eat handfuls of Tylenol and feel extremely guilty for leaving the dogs at the kennel. But... we'll be with family and that's what matters. My kids couldn't bear to have Christmas without their uncle, and I wholeheartedly agree.

I'll do my best to relax and ride the waves. When the stress gets to me, I'll head back to Hawaii in my mind. Maybe next year we'll be there in person again. Or at the very least, I'll try to find my aloha attitude again and just hang loose.

Freeshippingday.ca success

The first parcel arrived within 48 hours of ordering it. And I don't exactly live in a major metropolitan area.

The first parcel through the door was a pair of boots from Globo Shoes.  I ordered it at 7pm in the evening on a Tuesday. The arrived at lunchtime on Thursday.

Shipping was free. The boots were exactly as advertised.

Success.

Free Shipping Day!

It's free shipping day! It's free shipping day! Hi ho the dario it's free shipping day!

This is the greatest idea. This is the 2nd year in Canada. And I'm pleased to say I tried it in its inaugural year and was thrilled with the results. Last year Christmas preparations were just not happening. My mom was in the hospital and I was at her side full time. Meanwhile... back at my house, the kids were panicking that Christmas wasn't coming.

Free shipping day saved my bacon. I did nearly all my shopping on-line in about 2 hours. The beauty is that everything is guaranteed to arrive before Christmas.  They are almost all Canadian stores and they all positively ship to you in Canada.

Last year I was blown away that Roots.ca had my parcel in my hands within 48 hours. It came Fed Ex if I recall right. Roots offers free express shipping on everything this day, even clearance items. I bought my youngest just one thing. It came with wrapping paper & a note card at no extra cost. (Not sure if that applies to all items or I got lucky, but wow... impressed.)

The greatest things about this day are:

1. Canadian (Was started in the USA and is HUGE there, but finally the concept is here too. www.freeshippingday.com)

2. It's not too late! (Guaranteed to arrive before Christmas eve)

3. Ship gifts!  Soooo... if you have to send gifts elsewhere, shop online and have the company mail it right to them. Saves you wrapping, going to the post office and paying those crazy Canada Post fees. Isn't that typically your biggest barrier to sending the gifts you want to send?

4. Typically no minimum order. (Old Navy still has their $50 minimum, but they do offer you 30% off on this day too)

5. Discover new stores. I found Orb Clothing this way! Very cool. Very Canadian. And Got Something to Say They do the wall lettering you see in so many homes. (I bought little I love you messages, for my kids' rooms.)  And Globo Shoes... I know they exist around the country and are a division of ALDO shoes, but I was still pumped to find them. Great selection. Oh, and if you have an athlete in the house, don't miss Under Armour - another shop no minimum for free shipping today.

6. I don't feel like I'm stressed and fighting with other shoppers. No rushed panicked decisions made to get out of the crowd.

One last note, if you are worried about using your credit card online, just use your PayPal account. It's that easy.

Today only.... 12 12 12! Best of luck!

I'm a MART

We were talking about travel styles today and I am a self-described MART. That's Mother Against Road Trips.

It's true I don't enjoy road trips with my whole family. There's a couple good reasons.

First of all, we fight on who's going to drive. I have a big, spacious, gas guzzling quad cab truck. It's awsome. Like super awesome and I love it. But... I don't let anyone else drive it. So, gas mileage and the fact that I would have to do all the driving makes me reluctant to take it. But it sure would be comfortable and safe.

Then, if we took my husband's wagon, he would do all the driving. Ugh. He never stops. "Get in and shut up. We'll stop when we get there" best describes his driving style.  And since we live in the middle of nowhere road trips take at least 15 hours to get anywhere good.

My kids don't do well in confined spaces. They argue and fight and in general cause a ruckus.

I've tried road trip games, including custom bingo games. I've tried music, dvds and ipods. They work for a bit, but not long enough. They're active boys and need to run. I prefer to run them through airports on vacation, not gas stations and highway rest stops. I think it's great exercise to run from Terminal A to Terminal E in order to catch a connector flight. Keeps the heart racing and strong.

And with fly away vacations you can't just yell at everybody, toss them back in the car and drive home in a huff, cutting the trip short. Plane reservations and fees for changing flights help you resist the temptation to just throw your hands up and end the vacation.

I love my family and I love exploring new destinations. I just don't have the time, energy or interest in doing it Griswold-style like in the classic movie, "Vacation."

So I'm a MART. So what!

Fast Five: Seriously...bad gifts from husbands

Spoken not just in my voice, but the collective voice of women everywhere. (Yes, for this occasion, I nominated myself as the spokesperson for all women. Just this one time!)

Christmas is two weeks away. This advice likely comes 12 days to early for most men, but hey... I've got a lot to do in the next 2 weeks. Saving your ass at the last minute isn't on my to-do list this year.

So, men... listen up. (You can thank me later.)

1. Don't buy lingerie for us. We know what you want. Lingerie will not help your cause. Vacuuming the living room and taking the kids out while we try to wrap gifts... that MIGHT help.  But seriously, you don't know what size we are, and no teenager working at the lingerie store is going to save the day. Non refundable. Just don't. Seriously.

2. Don't buy a cookbook or frying pan, or humidifier or tool set. Basically...anything that comes from Canadian Tire or Home Dept (except for a new fancy kitchen) is going to fail your attempt as a Christmas gift. Seriously.

3. Don't buy anything that you can fetch from Wal-Mart at 5AM to avoid the Christmas shopping rush. Seriously.

4. Don't buy your wife the same box of Pot of Gold chocolates that you gave your secretary, the bus driver, your kid's teacher, or your ex-wife.  Buying in bulk might save you time, but won't save your ass. Seriously.

5. Don't buy the generic $10 bath set or moisturizer set. OMG, don't you know we spend hundreds of dollars on eye creams, and wrinkle fillers and miracle creams to avoid aging, wrinkling and sagging? If it's not guaranteed, proven to work or on Dr. Oz or Oprah, we don't want it. And even if we want it.... we DO NOT want you to buy it for us. That would just acknowledge you know about the aging, wrinkling and sagging, and you DO NOT want to acknowledge that. Seriously.

6. (Yes, I know it says 5, but I'm on a roll.)  Do not buy my Christmas gift at the liquor store. Yes, I know this is the one shopping trip you look forward to and it's the once-a-year event when you willingly push a cart.... but no. You and your buddies cannot go shopping together and just grab  tequila. Even if it IS  Patron. We see that as an attempt to get us back to the lingerie store.   Seriously.


Disclaimer: This list applies to husbands. Newlyweds and boyfriends might have some luck with #1, 5 or 6. However, #3 & 4 are bad news regardless.  Actually, with the right card, a boyfriend might be able to make a tool belt and cheap slippers into a romantic gift... but husbands should know better. Don't you remember the year you bought the frying pan? Nobody wants to relive THAT again.

Fast Five: Gift ideas

Gift giving can have its challenges whether it's a birthday, anniversary or Christmas. The gift recipient is obviously a special person to you, so a special, thoughtful gift is obviously what you're after.  I have a couple generic suggestions.

1. Support their hobby or sporting interests. New tools, certificates or even a class. If he's into photography, what about a Blacks.ca  certificate for prints or frames? If the recipient is a baker, what about some new silicone tools or commercial cookie sheets. Restaurant supply stores have some really cool stuff for the home chef too.

2. Does she have a coffee habit? Ground coffee to use at home, a stack of t-discs for the tassimo or gift cards for tim hortons/starbucks/local shop.  If you're making up a gift basket (amazing idea for office gift exchanges) make sure to add some syrup or liqueurs as appropriate. Cookies & chocolates too.

3. Restaurant gift cards. Everyone has to eat. Eating out is a treat some folks don't normally have money in the budget for. This is one time I recommend chain/franchises. Your recipient can use it on the road too.

4. I rarely suggest clothes or perfume or makeup as gifts. Those thing are very hard to get right. The wrong scent can be a throw away gift.  Again.... gift card for that kind of thing.

5. Make it personal. Did you share a concert or a game that was amazing? Save the ticket stub? Scrapbook it or frame it or even just return the ticket stub with a personal note sharing your memories.

I've written letters as gifts when $$ was tight. Home-made coupons are great too. Wouldn't your mom love help with the laundry or help with organizing the christmas ornaments after the holiday?  Nothing more precious than the gifts of time & love.

Cross Border Healthy

Canadians have, for decades, travelled to the United States in search of bargains and a little escape from the every day. To make a border-run for a quick weekend of shopping is pretty normal. If you go with your family, it's an inexpensive change from the ordinary. Kids love to swim in the hotel pool. The self -serve waffles at the continental breakfast station are a fun treat. It's a good chance for families to re-connect. 

There is, of course, a considerable argument for shopping at home. "Buy local." "Buy Canadian." Buying your goods at home contributes to the local economy. Whether it's a mom and pop shop, or a US Big Box retailer, if its in your community, it supports the local community by providing jobs, taxes and charitable support. 

However, there are benefits to travelling as well. And I feel this applies to wherever you travel, near or far, and regardless of purpose. When you leave your own community (for a vacations/business trip) you  AND your community benefits for these reasons: 

1. Perspective. When you see how other people live you appreciate what you have yourself. For example, in the flood of 2011 cities and towns in 2 provinces and 2 states were significantly affected, though none greater than Minot, North Dakota. The city was flooded. Many homes and businesses completely destroyed by 15 feet of water that submerged everything. This community is like ours. It could have been us. Minot is rebuilding. They want visitors. An injection of "outside money" is how they are going to bounce back. Visiting is how we can show friendly support. 

2. New ideas. It's a reality, franchises are born in the United States, and later enjoyed by Canadians. For entrepreneurs, it's a treasure chest of ideas. When new businesses/franchises set up at home, your community benefits through employment, commercial real estate use and more. 

3. You can't live in a bubble. To stay in your own 10 mile zone is not healthy. Live. Explore.

4. Respect. Travelling across borders requires stops at Customs. This is a formal process, not to be taken lightly. This process can show children another aspect of law enforcement, show them how honesty, integrity and respect for laws helps us live in a civil society. 

5. Work your brain. To travel means to learn. To learn means to create new paths in your brain. To only travel in the familiar literally stimulates your mind less. You use less brain function. For example, if you drive by the same billboard every day and it says "Stay at Super8 for Less" you begin to ignore it. It's part of the landscape. Your brain assumes it will be there and pays no attention. However, if one day it says, "Buy milk at Barneys" your brain receives new stimulus. Now, imagine going someplace new where every sign is new. Brain stimulus slows aging and preserves brain function.  Never stop learning!

Fast 5 Travel Tips: How to roll with the punches

Not everything is going to go smoothly in life, or on vacation. There will be delays, detours and unplanned events. It doesn't have to derail the good times. Here's how to roll with it, and keep smiling.

1. Bring your confirmation numbers and receipts. Especially if you booked with a 3rd party like Expedia or Hotwire etc. Having proof at your fingertips will make for a more smooth check-in even when the hotel has no record of your booking.

2. Plane delay.... these things happen. Yelling at the desk agent will not help. If there's a chance to re-route, you can often do it yourself quickly and without charge at the self-help kiosk.  Get the seats on the next plane out before someone else does.

3. Rain or inclement weather ruining your planned hike or day at the amusement park? Don't disappoint the kids.... have an indoor backup plan ready to go. A quick call to the concierge will work if you hadn't pre-planned something.

4. Sick child? If it's not serious, and they just need to rest at the hotel, this is a great time to divide & conquer. Have one parent take the other kid(s) out for some personal time. The parent left on nurse duty will get to go out on their own later when it's time to switch off. Don't forget to bring back a treat for the ailing child.

5. Keep smiling. See the bright side of things! Remember you're on vacation. You could be at home doing laundry!

Vacation Bargains Abound

I've been looking around at all my favourite discount travel sites lately. Not for myself, but for any friend who asks. I'm happy to do this. I'm certainly not a travel agent, but I have had a pretty wide variety of travel experiences and adventures in the last 10 years.

We have managed to tote our kids to Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Florida, Minnesota, North Dakota, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, The Turks & Caicos,  The Bahamas and Hawaii. We've travelled by passenger train, car, plane and cruise ship.

We've gone hiking, skiing, swimming, surfing, shopping, to amusement parks and more. It's felt a little crazy at times, but it's been good. I have no regrets at all.

My hubby and I also do the classic couples' getaway to Vegas every now and again. Personally, I love Vegas. I'd go anytime. I think one of the things I like so much about Vegas is the nightlife. It's the opposite of my hometown. My hometown exists, Monday to Friday, from 9AM -9PM. After that, the place shuts down and seems like a sleepy hollow.  So, to have concerts and plays and people out enjoying life after dark seems exciting. I like the change of pace.

But I'm not ready or able to plan another family vacation. Not yet anyway. As I stated last week, I seem to have lost my spark. Though, I am genuinely ok with researching on behalf of friends.

There are lots of amazing bargains out there right now. 5* golf vacations to california for about $700 including taxes, hotel and airfare.  Cheap jaunts to Cuba at under $1000.  Luxury caribbean cruises around $800 (Airfare extra).  Lots of bargains to Florida & Arizona.  Vegas is always cheap in the first part of December & the last part of January.

I priced out one golf vacation during the 3rd week of January at $800. The identical trip in late February is sitting around $1700. So yeah, that's what I consider a bargain.  5* trip, at 3* price.  But truly, it's about getting the type of vacation that works for your family, at a time that's convenient, at a price you can afford. I would caution to never ever take a vacation that the only thing that interests you is the price. If you go somewhere you hate, it's truly no bargain.

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Travel sites I like:

www.itravel2000.com

www.redtag.ca

www.yqrdeals.ca www.yegdeals.ca www.ywgdeals.ca  (Deals specific to your local airport)

www.aircanadavacations.com  (Check out their last minute specials.)

Both Redtag and Itravel2000 will chart the vacations days before and after your selected date and show you a grid of the varied prices. This is an amazing feature, as sometimes a day can make a $500 difference, and you'd never know unless you see this comparison. Each site also searches all the package providers for you. It will show you if Westjet has a better price than Air Canada on the nearly identical vacation.

Fast 5 Travel Tips: Is it your vacation?

Finding the vacation that suits you is almost as hard as finding the right shoes to go to a high school reunion. You need to have some patience and be really honest with yourself about what you want and what your goals are. If you can't walk in your shoes, even though they are pretty... are they the right choice?

It IS your vacation when:

1) All members of the travel party have something they are looking forward to

2) You choose activities you are genuinely excited about

3) You can't wait to write in your travel journal/blog/tell your friends

4) You are living within your budget and not stressing about money

5) You are NOT doing things out of obligation, guilt or because somewhere you read you HAVE TO visit/see/do a particular monument/activity that you're not actually interested in.

Cleaning therapy

Today I tackled the all-purpose closet... aka, the giant junk drawer behind a door. In this hiding place I've accumulated a couple yeas worth of partially used craft supplies, or unused craft supplies with the best intentions. There's also some wrapping paper, some photos, some colouring books, some shipping stuff,  and all the birthday cards I bought for people but never sent because I couldn't find them. (If that was an olympic sport, I'd be on that podium.)

So, I spread everything out in the living room with a garbage can, a recycling bag and a few clear boxes for keep items. The puppy was thrilled with the "buffet of toys" and things to taste that I put before her. LOL. She's a little goof but she did help me decide on a few things that should go into the garbage can immediately. Or immediately after she had them in her mouth!

All in all, I feel good about the project. I managed to release myself from the guilt of having unused craft supplies with no purpose. As a hockey mom, with barely enough time to make meals and clean jerseys, crafts are not really realistic for me at this stage.

Once I conceded I would never tackle that project that a starry-eyed me once envisioned, I lumped them all in a box labelled "Kindergarten/School." Surely, the classes at my kids' school will know what to do with these goodies. Perhaps they will even consider them a gift, and not the burden they have become in my junk closet.

It feels good to tackle that one. Where to next?

A year later

It's been exactly a year since my mother had a stroke. This changed our lives.

I don't want to get too personal here, but she wasn't even old enough to collect a pension when it happened. She was not overweight, a smoker or have any other medical circumstances that would have led us to believe this was going to happen.

In fact, the evening when it started all she noted was an uneasy stomach and maybe a pinched nerve in her leg or something. It just hurt a bit to walk, she said. Honestly, none of us had ANY clue that 8 hours later she would be unconscious in an emergency room.

Yesterday was hard. I was pretty weepy. I was having nightmares about the events from a year ago. Being in the emergency ward, not being able to communicate with her, seeing her unconscious felt really out of control.  But that was a year ago.

When it all happened, I didn't leave her side. I slept in a chair, in a corner and in a cot for 6 nights. Family and friends rallied. 24 hours a day everyone was asking me (and my brother) for updates.  Much of that week is a blur. I remember trying to go see my son at a hockey tryout, and instead sitting in a hallway bawling my eyes out at a hockey rink.

I gave up my vehicle for 3 or 4 days. I was too exhausted to drive and hospital parking charges were killing me. I wasn't sleeping. I may have said things that people didn't wanted to hear. I was blunt at times.  Though now, I could not even tell you what I said. Seriously, such a blur after the 3rd day.

Then somebody, somewhere, hijacked my credit card that very weekend. A vending machine? The hospital parkade? My wallet?  Who knows.  I felt paralyzed without it - which is pretty pathetic for me to say, because at that point my mother was significantly paralyzed for real. But with my credit card and debit card frozen and nowhere near my bank branch, lets just say it sucked.

Emotionally, I felt lucky for I had friends in different time zones that were ready and willing to talk at different times of day and night.  I was touched by the ones that reached out to me,  and a little surprised by the ones who didn't. Facebook was a good thing. I was a bit of a wreck. Facing my mother's paralysis and now her obvious gambling addiction... it was a lot to handle.

I essentially abandoned my own family and moved in with my brother to care for my mom last winter. It was hard but where I needed to be. Her survival was the only thing that mattered.  My own kids and husband survived, they even missed me a little, but that was only temporary.

After several months of round the clock care, and expert rehab my mother was able to move back into her apartment. And my life got back to "normal" too.

Her mobility is limited. Significantly limited. She has lost her license and given up her car, which is ok I guess as she's actually afraid to set foot outside her door anyway. The big wide world is a scary place now. The TV doesn't help either. She has a tendency to personalize every crisis happening around the world whether it is weather-related or random violence or whatever. An example would be that one night at 4AM she started texting me and begging me not to drive my kids to school because of the hurricane. It was July. The hurricane was in the caribbean. We don't live in the caribbean. But not much would settle her down except me promising I would not take the kids to school that day & that I did indeed have extra water and food in the house.

She continues to live with the support of health care workers/home care. Most days, I believe she is trying, but often the depression gets the best of her.

My brother has been amazing. His compassion and patience were and are far beyond my expectations. I feel he's carried the lion's share of the load. I try. I really do, but with a family and a business and living hours away in a different city... it's hard. My brother really has kept this all together. Mom & I chat daily, but I know it's not like being there in person.

Her siblings live her city too. I assume they try to come around when they can, though I've only heard of a couple visits. When I have tried to reach out to them I've been ignored. I feel that loss too. It's significant for me.

I don't know why this anniversary is so hard for me. Just a year later and I see how much we've lost, not how far we've come. Personally, I feel like crap.  She's doing ok. Ok is really a relative term.  I didn't bring up the anniversary when we chatted yesterday. It obviously better that way. I'll just find my own therapy here at the keyboard.

The flame is out

I've think I've lost my urge to travel. I'm sure it's only temporary, but still, this is a weird feeling.

I usually have the next trip planned before the first one is even done. What the heck has happened to me? And the oddest part is that I have travel credits in the bank. My Skymiles account has $2400 of free travel just sitting there designated for our family. Free travel. Free travel!!!! And yet, I can't get excited.

It's not that I've had a bad experience or anything recently. It's not that I've been around the world. I haven't seen everything I want to see. I certainly have not done everything either. I just don't know.

Have I lost my sense of adventure? Has my typical winter depression set in early? Am I lost to myself right now?

There are so many places I haven't been. And yet I have no urge to research.

By this time, I'm usually rabid to have something to look forward to. A Christmas vacation helps me get through our dysfunctional family holiday season. This year.... meh.

I think I've lost my spark. The flame is out.

I may as well just get a puppy and stay home.

Black Friday Sales: Canadian-ized

So it seems that Canadian retailers are trying to get in on the phenomenon that is Black Friday. It's the biggest retail shopping day in the USA each year, and it seems it's finally time to step up our Canadian game and get in on the action.

There is no doubt that cross-border shopping has been negatively affecting stores and jobs here in Canada. And with the Canadian dollar at par, the threat is very real for our consumers to spend their dollar in the USA. After all, the USA seems to know how to throw a sale.

Big time sales of 50% or 70% off would attract any consumer. Especially when the same or similar items are typically only discounted 10-20% at Canadian store. It's easy to see the attraction.

Old Navy is hosting a sale in Canada, comprable to their American sister stores. Here they are calling it "Cheermageddon" and they are advertising it everywhere.

Electronics retailers like Best Buy and Future Shop have been leaders in "Cyber Monday" sales as well. It's been their way of adding one more day to the frenzy that is the Thanksgiving shopping weekend. For it, they promise fabulous on-line deals on electronics, movies and the like on the Monday that follows Thanksgiving.

It would be great to get some Christmas shopping done at a discount, but I am not willing to travel, fight crowds or arrive hours before a store opens in order to do it. If I participate in anyway, it will be from the comfort of my office and on-line.

Whether you want clothes, electronics, hotel rooms (Fairmont is promising deals), Danier leather jackets or cosmetics from The Body Shop they are all getting in on the act. 

My advice would be to do your research ahead of time. Only shop on-line with trusted retailers that you've shopped with before. And whether you are shopping at the malls, in person or on-line, be prepared for deals to go fast. Go in with a budget, and your Christmas shopping list to avoid going overboard.  Try not to get carried away in the frenzy.

Shopping sites like Smart Canucks offer fabulous info, and up to date information on sales. There are also interactive forums where you can share information, deals, warnings etc with other shoppers.

I guess the countdown is on. Happy shopping, but most of all, Happy Thanksgiving to our American friends. Enjoy the special time of year and thank you for sharing your shopping phenomenon with your northern neighbors. Come visit sometime, it's friendly up here. Bring a parka.

Peep Peep

Well, I started a Twitter account a little while back. I was naturally suspicious and wondered what, if anything, it would bring into my life.

At this point I will admit is has grown on me. I've followed links to interesting articles, seen some cute pictures, found insight into celebrity lives and found myself chuckling at points. There aren't too many diversions so instant, so varied and so much like a 10 minute round-the-world-trip, like Twitter. It's like a mini-break from my day.

I don't think I've said too much of interest. I've posted a few pictures from my travels, re-tweeted light hearted comments and enjoyed using my inner voice a bit.

I also have noticed how Twitter has changed the world's news and how we receive it. Hurricane Sandy was a prime example. The whole world watched and shared. Politics were a little overwhelming during the Presidential race, but you get the choice. You can tune in, or tune out anything.

Local storm and road updates are valuable too as a weather service. There is nothing like man-on-the-street experience, especially when minutes count.

Just connecting with the big wide world is valuable too.  It's nice feeling a part of the big wide world.

@cdntripseeker

My Kinda Fun

I wish I knew. Really, I'm not sure what I enjoy anymore. It's been so long since I've been out on a Saturday night I'm not sure what fun looks like, never mind feels like.

I'm not all "boo hoo" so don't stop reading because you think I'm going to suck and whine about my life. It's hard to do that in this world nowadays. With natural disasters, disease, politics, crime and the crazy misfortune that plagues everyone, I can't compete. Nor do I want to.

You've got to want what you have, not just try to have what you want all the time. And I have a lot. I get that. I have great kids, a husband who doesn't try to drive my vehicle anymore,  and I get to travel a fair bit. But what I don't really have are any hobbies or anything that gets me out of the house in the winter.

For 9 months of the year, I work every Friday and Saturday night at my restaurant. Most Sundays too. And those are the days when real people - you know - people who are NOT married to restaurants, go out and do things. And now that I'm in the off season, I have to figure out what happens on Friday nights. I hear that some people get a babysitter and go out with their spouses. I think I'd like to try that.

I hear that sometimes ladies go out for things called "girls' night." I think I'd like to try that. I hear that there are places where strangers can go and eat popcorn and all watch the same thing on a giant screen... movies, I think they call them. I'd like to try that.

I'd love to go to an NHL game, but I guess nobody is doing that right now.

What I don't want is another Saturday night of mini-sticks and boys yelling at me "mom, you need to practice more, your shot sucks. You never score. I don't want mom on my team."  I think I've had enough of those.

I suppose there's always laundry. But who really wants 7 nights a week of dirty socks and wet towels? I think I'm going to need a new hobby. Please don't anybody say scrapbooking. I'm no good at that. Writing.... LOL.  What about curling... nah, I think I prefer to wear grippy shoes in the winter rather than things that slide. And if somebody started yelling "sweep" at me, I'd think I was at work. I'd probably start filling a mop bucket out of habit.

Ugh... I'm thinking about work again.  Ohhh, maybe I could take up stand-up comedy. I seem to think I'm pretty funny. Oh never mind, if people started throwing tomatoes at me and my bad jokes I'd probably just make a sauce and start doing "restaurant stuff" again.

Mama's got some new shoes!

My dad's a great guy. That isn't news. I bought new sneakers too. But that's hardly worth writing about, until of course, you put those two things together.

My dad is a retired military Captain. When he speaks, I listen. Each year for my birthday he gives me some spending money and a personal request to actually spend it on myself. He knows me well. Without his request, the money would go towards house bills, or something for the kids etc. It's rare for me to think of myself first. But each year I honour his request and indeed I look forward to it. It's not just permission to splurge on myself, it's an order!

Other years I've bought sunglasses or jackets, sometimes perfume or clothes. It seems to be one of the only times I get all "girly" and buy myself something from a mall or department store.  This year, I thought I'd follow more along the lines of the example he sets.

My dad is an athlete. He will probably gasp at me using that term, but it's true. He has always played tennis or badminton about 10+ hours a week, coached sports, watched sports and participated in everything we did as kids. He's a role model. As I get older I take my health more seriously too. It's not an age thing or a vanity thing, it's simply I want to be around for my kids and be able to keep up with them. And I do consume a whole lot more cheeseburgers than the average gal, so I need to work a little harder in the gym than most as well.

My dad skated with us after school, and I intend to do the same with my kids. I should say "keep doing" because I have skated with them on occasion and will continue to do so. We also hike and swim and play baseball (sometimes with random vegetables) and other crazy-fun games.

Back to the sneakers.  The last pair of runners I bought I think I put 500 miles on recreationally. Then I started wearing them to work. I pretty much worked them into the ground. They are done. I wore every last mile out of them. We hiked a mountain together in Arizona. We cruised the neighbourhoods in Colorado and we've run through an airport to catch a plane. Time to say goodbye & thank you to those old shoes.

The new ones should be warned.... they're not going to sit in the closet. They're not going to be like some sort of trophy or gym pass. I did not buy them to sit on a shelf.  I splurged and got Merrells because they fit my feet and my active lifestyle.  Merrell Shoes

I feel like I splurged a little. But they're worth it. I will, of course, personally thank my dad for the gift, but I also thank him for being a role model. An active lifestyle, and one where you participate in activities with your kids is a life worth celebrating. I'm lucky to have people in my life who remind me to look after myself and every now and then, celebrate ME.  And what girl doesn't like to celebrate with new shoooooz??

Can't Sleep

So what do you do when you can't sleep?

Sometimes I listen to music, or read boring things on-line, in an effort to find sleep. But, my iphone battery is nearly dead tonight. So, I thought I'd get out of bed and charge it. Problem is I can't find a charger. Normally, not a big deal, since everyone in the house has a gadget and someone always has a cord or docking station handy, but not now. I "upgraded" to the iphone 5. I mock the word upgrade because it hasn't made my life better, or easier. Frankly, it doesn't do anything that the last version didn't do for me. I kinda thought a new phone would mean a new battery and less charging (since my 4 battery could barely survive a regular day on a full charge) but it really hasn't. Seems the battery life of a "5" and a 2 year old "4" are pretty similar.

Anyways, I'm rambling like a tired person.

The "5" has a new cord. Of course, so it fits nothing. Not compatible with any tool that came before it. So, to go with my new phone, I'm going to have to buy new docking stations, car adapters etc. Ahem... cash grab!  But whatever. I know the way the world works. I'd probably do it too if I owned Apple. Still kicking myself for not buying shares in that company when I was a kid.

Back to the topic. Can't sleep. Well, an hour ago, I couldn't sleep because the neighbor's dog, Buddy, was barking and barking and barking. So, I encouraged my husband to go see what that was about. He did and the barking stopped.  Nice.

Then the husband fell asleep instantly and snored like some chainsaw factory. Usually, earphones and music do the trick.... but you read the earlier paragraph. No damn battery power.

So, I wander around the house, looking for the cord and maybe a snack. (Since I'm up anyways.) And then I trip over a black dog in the living room, in the dark. Odd.... since my black dog passed away 2 months ago.

It's Buddy! The neighbor dog is fast asleep in my living room. Again, nice. Can you feel the sarcasm here? Ok, true, he's not barking anymore and he's obviously quite content because he's FAST ASLEEP and also snoring.  Obviously the two guys here have conspired to find an easy solution. Probably not the first time they've pulled this stunt either. But, the question remains... why is the neighbor dog sleeping in my living room?

So, here I am, writing. And I'm itchy. And I'm in denial about the source of the itch. I refuse to believe that peanut butter and I are not 100% compatible because I eat peanut butter all the time. I blend it with oreos in chocolate ice cream and eat it by the gallon. And yet, it does make me itchy. I know it. I hate admitting it, but I'm 98% sure that's the cause of this crazy itchiness. And I brought this on myself. I ate several. Ok, more than several, peanut butter cups last night. Hey..... I was doing kids with peanut allergies a FAVOUR by eating them all out of the box I bought, rather than giving them to small costume-clad children. It was a public service, of sorts. I took one for the team. Or a dozen.... or whatever I ate. Now my skin is crawling. I scratch and it's worse. I would totally go for a scratching post right now, or some fine grade sand paper. Oooooh, that'd be nice. And still I can't sleep. But at least while I type I can't scratch. So, that's a good thing.

I've finished my tea now, and the laundry is ready for folding, but I still have no resolution to my 3 bigger issues:  sleep;  itch;  dead battery. Huh.

Well, there's still the boob tube. I could go watch the last of the election race. That should solve one of the 3 problems. 'Night!

You can edit the photo, but not the memory

The last time I saw my Happy Place, I wanted to mark the moment with a photograph. Isn't that what we all do? Aren't we all documenting our lives through photos and photo sharing these days?

Well, I was looking for the photo to capture the place and time that I absolutely cherish. And then, there was this guy. This guy and his laundry.

My Happy Place, is a palm tree on a beach, outside the Atlantis Hotel, on Paradise Island in the Bahamas. It's just a single palm tree, on a tiny stretch of beach, surrounded on two sides by the ocean, but for me it's Utopia. It represents all that is bliss and perfection in a holiday. I love this palm tree. Seriously. Now, of course, as a traveller I've seen hundreds, maybe thousands of palm trees and sure, I like them all. But this is the ONE. It's my screensaver. It's my wallpaper. It's.... it's..... my HAPPY PLACE.

When I am stressed, or scattered and I need to find my peace and my focus, I take my mind to this tree. I feel the breeze, I hear the ocean and I go back to a time when I was there and I was calm and rested.

So, back to the guy and his laundry.....

My family goes trotting out to this area of beach to see the palm tree, and along comes another tourist with an armload of towels. He unceremoniously tosses them down on the sand, in a heap. Then he proceeds to walk another 12 feet or so, to the palm tree and park himself underneath it. He just lay there. He just lay there....completely ruining my shot. Him and his pile of laundry!

See him and his pile of yellow towels?

"What the Hell? This isn't your laundry room!" I thought. "Not your basement! Not YOUR tree!" But of course, it really isn't my tree either. I shook my head and smiled, "what luck" I thought. So I simply encouraged my family to enjoy the beach. Play in the water, relax and take your time. Do whatever. "We'll wait." I figured at some point he'd get up, gather his laundry and go. Then I could have my postcard photo, and blissful moment to capture.

But no. Laundry guy thinks it's a jolly idea to linger, to "camp", if you will. Dozens of other tourists come and go in the area. They take photos. They're obviously posing. They're taking their photos in spite of his presence. He is, of course, oblivious.

"Get your picture and let's go" says my husband. "Just edit him out like you would a zit."

Now it's sunset & he's still here! Him and his laundry!

Really? Is this a school photo? I'll just blend him into the sand? Is that what my husband thinks? Now, yes, I do have the skills and it's not that hard to do, but how do I edit the memory? I can wipe Laundry Guy off the beach with a swoosh of my mouse, but how do I get him out of my relaxation ritual?Laundry, is not exactly what I would consider peaceful, or happy. Laundry is a chore! I have two sons. They play hockey. Laundry is not my happy time. Ugh.

The birds are a nice distraction, but I still see him in this sepia version.

Obviously, I'm left with no other choice than to call a do-over on this vacation. I simply must return to see my tree again, and make a new postcard memory. Frankly, I don't see any other choice. So, thanks, "Laundry Guy" I'm going to have to go to the Bahamas again. "Darn!" (She says squealing with joy and dancing a jig.) I'm just going to have to go back!

Simply cropped. But "yuck" my tree doesn't grow in the water. I NEED sand in the photo!

Mama said

Mama said there'd be days like these.

Did "she" know there would be such crazy adventures? Or is every day just what you make of it?

Will my boys remember into the future, things I say today? Or for them, will it be the actions I took, rather than the words I used?

Not just as a parent, but in general, I do my very best to only make promises I can keep. I also try not to get into situations where I would disappoint my kids. For example, I would never take my kids to an ice cream store and not get them ice cream. Right?  Well, why would I hold them back from wet and wild adventures, if I'm the one who took them to the waterpark?  I wouldn't.

But boy, did I have my hands full!

The waterpark or "Aqua Adventure" at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas is a thrill a minute. From the "not so" lazy river, to the Abyss or the Falls, it's all a wild time. But, still, not my idea of a good time! Here's the thing.... I don't actually like to swim. I don't like roller coasters and I don't like to be in a bathing suit in public. And pretty much this is EXACTLY what I'd gotten us into. Yep, I willingly planned a family vacation to the incredible Atlantis Resort. (It's such an incredible place. I love, love, love Atlantis!)   Aqua Adventure is an absolute dream come true - for anyone who likes water, and fun. And while I'm not opposed to water, and I do like a little adventure, this kind of thing repels me. And then I see the boys.

My boys are beaming with joy, vibrating with anticipation and looking at me like I'm a hero for leading them to this glorious place.  Ry screams, "Mom, lets go! Lets's do the serpent ride! It goes through the shark tank! C'mon!"

My gut screams "noooooo" but my mouth shouts, "yeah! Race ya' there!"  And there's one reason I do it. I am absolutely committed to showing my kids a good time. I will not let my fears hold them back from trying new things in their lives. I will not let my fears cripple them into living a sheltered life. I will not hold them back from trying new things and finding what they love to do. And if it means that I have to fight my own inner battles in order to participate fully, then that's exactly what I'll do. I view it as a privilege to be witness, and often co-conspirator in their shenanigans.

After the serpent ride and the falls, Ry and I tackled the "Challenger Slides" together. It's a steep, 5 second race to the water. After our first race, I was gasping and snorting water and just happy I survived. Ry joyfully screams at me, "that was soooo awesome, we HAVE TO do it again!"  Ugh, I think but rather, I reply "Hell ya'." This gets him fired up and we clamber to the stairs to go up again for another race. "You're the best" he tells me as we wait for another turn.  As I stand there, catching my breath and processing his heartfelt compliment, I think to myself "yeah, I am doing a good job. This optimistic, fearless boy is going to be ready to take on the world. If he can get ME out at a waterpark, laughing and racing and in a bathing suit, there's really nothing he can't do."  And that's how I'll measure success.

Challenger Slides

In the meantime, I guess I'll be enjoying the days like these. Nothing beats togetherness and shared laughter with your kids.

Kind Of An Ugly Puppy

By the time we introduced children into the family, our dogs were already 5 years old. We lived out in the country on a comfortable acreage and life was pretty settled. Two medium sized dogs,  a couple of Paint horses and full time jobs kept us pretty busy.

The day we brought our eldest son (Ry) home from the hospital a lot of things changed. I put the infant car seat on the ground and our labrador/dalmatian dog, Mocha, came over for a closer look. She stared and she sniffed. And then she sat down next to the car seat and looked up at me and "said".... it's kind of an ugly puppy, but I'll take it. 

And from that day forward, Ry was Mocha's puppy and she was his guard dog and best friend. As cliche as it sounds, it's the absolute honest truth. That dog and that boy were meant to be together.

Our other dog, Oreo, is also a loving and wonderful, brilliant (Border Collie cross) companion, but she has never been particularly interested in the boys or being at their side. But that's what Mocha lived for. She loved it. That was easy to see.

Each night Mocha slept outside Ry's bedroom door. When he got his first toddler bed she lay right on the mat next to it. When he graduated to a double bed, Mocha's prayers had been answered. Finally there was a bed big enough for the both of them!

Mocha was pretty vocal about it being her bed too. Should I lie down and get comfy while reading my Ry a bedtime story, she would whine and whimper until I got out of "her spot" and let her settle in for the night.

When her arthritis got bad enough that she could no longer climb up on his bed, she began sleeping on the hard floor in the hallway outside his bedroom. Lovingly, we placed her new little dog bed there, so she would be comfortable. Faithfully each night, when she got up to stretch, her claws would tap, tap, tap on his bedroom floor as she peered inside his room and walked right up to the bed to get a closer look. She checked on all of us. She just made the rounds and kept watch on all of us, every night. We knew the noises of her "rounds" and they brought us peace and comfort each night.

When Ry learned to ride a bike, she was there. When he was on the swings, she was there. When he went for a walk in the forest, she was there. For hours on end, she would lie in the yard watching him as he played. I have so many pictures of her like this. Where Ry was, Mocha was.  As Ry grew older and more independent I  got more and more comfortable letting him play in our big country yard. I took comfort in knowing Mocha was always there and always watching him.

When the family was out at the lake, or out on the dock, she was right there too. She simply wouldn't dream of letting her puppy out of her sight. She had endless patience for him. Whether he wanted to cuddle or climb, or share his hotdog she was always gentle and willing.

When Ry's little brother CJ was born, she added to her duties, but she never did bond with CJ the same way she did with Ry.

I sure did think this was a precious moment when Ry wanted to read to his baby brother and he lay down on a blanket for storytime, and Mocha got right in there and joined the boys. I could go on and on about the way those two shared their lives. If words were enough to express the love between them I wouldn't need pictures, but these photos say so much.

Mocha died on September 28th, 2012 of old age and complications of canine epilepsy. It was a devastating loss to our family. Right now we're still in hour by hour mode. I'm sure each day will get a little easier but right now it still really stings.

I sat down to eat some ice cream today and after a few bites I just burst into tears, remembering that every night she would lick out the cup and finish the ice cream for me. And now I have to finish it myself and that sucks because I can't eat a whole cup of ice cream,  or ANYTHING for that matter. Mocha has spent the last 15 years cleaning up after me and finishing my every meal. That was our thing. I brought that baby dog home when she was just 8 weeks old and loved her every day after.

I will try to remember the best times. Like Ry's first day of school. Both Mocha and CJ tried to squeeze in on the action. Both appear here, ready to go with him, for that milestone event.

I will try to remember the 1000s of hours she spent walking with her family and the way she was always right beside us. And will forever be, in our hearts.

Mocha, our guardian on earth. Now our angel in Heaven. Rest in peace Mocha. Rest in peace.

Fast Five Travel Tips: Choosing a destination

Whether it's a family trip, or a solo adventure, your biggest decision is your destination. A few quick tips on how I choose.

1. Who is actively promoting their tourism industry? See commercials for California? Airlines offering packages? If they want you visit... that's a good sign.

2. Is it a relatively new destination with your favourite airline? You may find incentive packages or fantastic initial discounts.

3. Is there an event you'd like to see? Running of the bulls? A New Orleans Saints football game? Is there an activity on your bucket list that corresponds with a certain destination?

4. Cost of travel. Some remote locations are very challenging to get to and costs will be significantly higher. How much do you have to spend.... time wise and money wise? This is a very important point.

5. But don't be a lemming. Just because everyone else is going to Cuba, or Mexico or Fargo North Dakota, doesn't mean you have to. Choose where your imagination wants to go. Pursue adventures. Pursue personalized travel above all. Go where YOU want to go!

As always, I recommend seeing what the fine folks on Tripadvisor.com say. They are avid travellers and readers too. There is always good information on specific locations, hotels and restaurants. There are some excellent tips, from real people, that can help you make the most of your travel time and dollar. Choose wisely young grasshopper!

Fast Five Travel Tips: Christmas booking time is now

1. Booking in September, for Christmas travel means you should get what you want, for the price you can live with.

2. There are still decent flight times, and flight prices available.

3. Find yourself a hotel haven. Grab a room at the inn, before you're left out in the cold, or on aunt Betty's basement couch.

4. A Christmas vacation is a gift in itself. Your shopping is done!

5. Last minute all-inclusive Christmas vacations are like eating 3 day-old leftovers.... iffy at best. Why take chances with your money, or your memories? Book the vacation YOU want, rather than take what nobody else wants.

I Must Be a Lot of Fun!

Either I'm a lot of fun, or my family just really loves to travel.

Each year we try to take at least one trip together as a family, but somehow that's just not enough for these people! We're not home even a week post-vacation, before someone secretly takes me aside and says something to the effect of, "that was fun, but don't you think it would be better if just you and I went _______." Now, you can fill in that blank with just about any destination. They've asked for the world at one point or another.

Usually first to ask for a private adventure, is my 7 year-old son. CJ loves to travel. His passport is embarrassingly full of stamps. He wants to go to the classic family destinations, like Disney World.

Ry, who is 10, loves cruises. He thinks a Caribbean cruise would be just the perfect thing for the two of us. He likes the all-inclusive feel, and round the clock service and activity of a cruise ship.

My husband likes the classic couples' weekends, like Vegas or Montreal. Both cities have so much to offer. He likes the weekend getaways... quick, exciting and to the point. Plus, it's hard for us to leave the kids for more than a three day weekend.

Individual trips, tailored to individual tastes are great. I have no problem with them at all. Each child gets some personal parenting time and I like to think that I get to know each of them better thanks to "solo" trips.

While Ry didn't get a cruise, he did get a 5 day hockey road trip (and a whole whack of hockey gear) just a few months ago. CJ indeed got Disney last November and the hubby and I just returned from Vegas.

For me, it feeds the beast. That inner voice of mine that says.... "where to next?" Little trips stoke the fire until we can align our schedules and jet off to our next great family adventure.

Crepes From Paris LV

Caramelized pear & hazelnut. Amazing!

One of my favourite treats in Las Vegas are the crepes from the Paris Hotel. La Creperie is fabulous. They do one thing and they so it so well. It's not like a breakfast place where you can get a bagel or an omelette or french toast. It's crepes or nothing!

Choose from their list of sweet or savoury crepes. You can't go wrong. The mixed berry... the ham & cheese... they are all delicious. Made fresh for you and served in just a couple minutes. You can grab a juice, water or coffee here with your meal. They even serve Baileys with the coffee.

My kind of place!

Fall Travel Deals on Now

There are some good deals on travel within North America and some select Caribbean destinations right now. Both Westjet and Air Canada are offing 10-20% off flights this fall. Booking deadline is September 12th, for travel up to early December. Blackout dates are October 4th - 9th (Canadian Thanksgiving weekend).

A round trip, taxes in, from Winnipeg to Vancouver is $410. The same from Winnipeg to Bermuda is $456 and the Bahamas are about $520. A quick trip to Calgary will cost you about $360.

If you're willing to drive over the border and fly out of a North Dakota city on Delta or United, you could go to Phoenix, Los Angeles, Denver, or Dallas for less than $400 all taxes etc included round trip.

As always, prices vary based on flight times, dates and demand. But if you are flexible there are some good trips to be had at reasonable prices. May I suggest an NFL road trip this fall? Go Broncos! Unless they are playing the Cardinals.... in which case.... Go Cards!

University of Phoenix Stadium, Home of the Arizona Cardinals

@cdntripseeker

Back to the Turks & Caicos: PLS a Hot Mess

Just for a moment I want to take you back to the islands of the Turks and Caicos, site of our beautiful, Caribbean family summer vacation 2012. I've covered the food, the island, the entertainment and the resort. I forgot to finish up my report on the PLS airport.

It was chaos. Hot, sticky, grumpy, chaos. Any bliss you had from your week's rest in paradise was out the window and dead on the sidewalk within minutes of entering this airport. IF, and that's a big IF you could get into the building. The lineups, snaked around the outside of this little airport.

PLS is the airport code for the main international airport in Providenciales of the Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean. While it is the main airport, it's not huge. Not big at all. Much smaller than any Walmart, that's for sure.

Delta, American Airlines, Air Canada, United and Westjet all fly here regularly. The problem is that the number of tourists had grown at a much much quicker pace than the facilities or staffing and they are simply overwhelmed.

Picture four major airlines and roughly 700 people crammed into a system where 200 would be comfortable. 1 in every 5 people could get a seat in the waiting area. 20 minutes in line to use one of the 3 stalls in the ladies room. No air conditioning. And 2 physical doors acting as 4 "airline gates" for people to exit through onto the tarmac. 4 planes trying to load weary passengers all at once and one, I REPEAT ONE, security line.

The baggage handlers, the ticket agents and security were doing their best to corral people and usher them into the "right" line. Lines that all criss crossed and intersected multiple times.  Ticket lines, check-in lines and security. There was a line for families and a line for airline employees and probably random lines I didn't even know about.

Now picture impatient travellers hollering "platinum! platinum!" at baggage clerks and security agents... "I'm supposed to have priority" they'd say. "Platinum!!!"  Ok, these folks added levity for me. But the other folks with crying children, and/or missing their planes after 2 hours in chaos... well, that broke my heart. I really felt bad for them.

Talking to the baggage handlers and the taxi drivers, they told me, "it's like this every Saturday. But it's good on a Tuesday... take you 15 minutes." Simple as that. It was and is, an organizational issue. They need to spread out their flight departures better. Or  build an addition. Even one more security line would cut the wait in half. Things can be done. Things should be done.

I would never travel there on a Saturday again. It would not be worth the stress. And this was in July - their slow season! It was a beautiful island and a fantastic vacation, but leaving.... leaving was simply a hot mess. An ugly, hot, and avoidable mess.

My Best Back to School Tip

STOP... and give me 15!!!

So what do I mean? Well, when my two boys burst through the door after school each day I tell them to "stop, and give me fifteen" minutes of their time for chores. Fifteen minutes is no big deal. You can even put it on a timer. But I do my best to enforce it every school day, the minute they burst through the door. Otherwise, you know what happens... the TV flips on, or they start playing with their iPods, scavenging for food or otherwise just destroying the house. And then the evening gets away on you and it's dinner and bed and nothing has been accomplished by the minors in the household.

In 15 minutes they can complete one or maybe two tasks. Things as simple as these:
- tidying up their bedroom from the morning rush
- organizing the shoes at the front door
- walking and feeding the dogs
- taking out the garbage
- sweeping the floor
- putting away their own laundry
- gathering their equipment for the next hockey game
- writing a quick thank you note to someone
- putting away groceries
- setting the table

During that 15 minutes, I prepare a quick and healthy snack for them. (We all know kids burst through the door hungry each day after school.)  Things like crackers and cheese, veggies, or whole grain tortilla chips and salsa usually do the trick.

Then, they can get to doing their after school "chillaxin" and I can work at getting dinner ready without the added burden of doing their chores as well, or tripping over them as they scavenge for food in the kitchen.