Merry christmas everyone. I know im a few days late saying it, but it really has been great this year. The Oconnells came to town again this year which was absolutly wonderful. I recieved too many gifts and I love them all, and the gifts I was able to give seemed to make everyone smile. Some highlights:
I was able to take a lot of vacation Im off work from December 23rd to November 2nd. And I only ened up using 5 vacation days which is awesome. I love having 11 days off work.
The Oconnells came to town and with them they brought a lot of happiness and joy. Abby is getting so tall, only just a few inches shorter than Brittany. Ally is getting bigger too. Lifting her upside down and spinning around was a much greater challenge (we still did it though). I am becoming more and more comfortable with Brian and I feel we really had some good Sports bonding, from watching the Utes bowl game, to teaming up against Craig on his twisted view of sports. Ashli is such a beatuiful woman. How she has mananged raising her faiml,y full time work, and all sorts of life disasters, and still carry herself with such grace, intelligence, hope, and happiness while doing it effortlessly and looking so beautiful is astonishing. She is a great role model to her students, her children, her brother, and anyone whome she interacts with. I so wish we lived closer and could visit more often. Today they get on an airplane and fly back to MO. I miss them already and cant wait to see them again
Also, Abby and All got to spend the night here while they were in town. We took the girls to Village Inn for a breakfast dinner, went shopping for snacks and breakfast, played Wii and danced till our legs gave out, and then went sledding at Dimple Dell golf course. It was the first time the girls had been sledding. I think they loved it. Its hard to tell from all the smiling and laughing, but I think they enjoyed it a lot. I have some video to prove it. It was challenging and fun taking care of those 2. I wish Brittany and I could do it more often.
Chirstmas Day was crazy (and fun) Brittany and I woke up early and opened our own gifts. We got each other a lot of stuff. My favorite gift I gave Brittany is the photography classes, and the secret recipie cook books. And my favorite gift she gave to me is the pajama pants and all the tools. We then with the my Mom and dads house where we met up with the whole gang. I helped make breakfast by making the sausage gravy for the biscuts and eggs. It is the traditional christmas breakfast at our house it is oh so good. We then opened stockings and gifts. It was a wonderful time spent as family, and getting so many gifts was fun too. Brittany and I were able to give netbook laptops to Abby and Ally this year and seeing their faces light up was they very best (we have video to prove it!). After the Greenwood Christmas exchange we headed to Mike and Destiny's house. There more gifts were exchanged and Mike and Desi made some very yummy prime rib and some sort of pork salad something or other. It was very good. Brittany and I were blessed once again to be able to buy Chad and Debbie and new digital camera for christmas. They really seem to love it and are excited about viewing thier pictures on thier HDTV.
Mike and Desi are thinking of selling their house this summer, and after talking with them we are considering trying to move with them and near them. This is still up for discussion though. I don't even know if the economy will allow it!
Today DirectTV is coming today to install satalite TV. We will be giving comcast the boot. I am very excited. Should be saving us lots of money, and we got some cool promotions by doing it. Jazz tickets, free pizza, free golf, and an opportunity to meet Al Jefferson of the Utah Jazz.
We are very excited to start the new year coming up. New years day we will be sledding with Mike and Desi and their friends. I good time should be had by all.
December 28, 2010
November 14, 2010
Updates
I just really havn't had a lot of drive to update the blog. Facebook is to blame. I feel I am able to keep people up dated that way, but then I looked back at my facebook posts and 90% of them are just me rooting on my sports teams. I don't want the stories of my life to get lost in random pointess facebook posts. I am hoping to put forth a better effort updating the blog.
The most important thing I can think of worth telling about is our Halloween Murder Myster Party this year was excellent. Brittany and I wrote the enitre story ourselfs. We wrote a story based on characters from the Plants Vs. Zombies game by PopCap. Google it, its is a fun game available on iphone, ipad, PC, and Nintendo DS. Brittany and I dressed up as Football zombie (me) and Sunflower (Brittany). The entier experience was great from writting, preparing, decorating, and playing the game with our friends.
The other very exciting news is that Brittany and I have taken "dramastic" steps to paying off our debt. We are doing very well and are head of schedule. We sold a car, made of a lot of overtime money, picked up extra side work, and are selling other things we can. We are following the Dave Ramsey Total Money Make Over system. The book was given to us by Uncle Kelly and Aunt PJ. Thank you to them big time! We deffinatly have gazelle intensity and are doing very well. I recommend the Dave Ramsey system to ANY one who wants to get out of debt, save money, or build wealth. Number one step that everyone whould do is create and adhear to a budget. Such a big deal!
In other news Brittany and I have been attending all Utah football home games this season thanks to our Season Tickets. The Utes were doing VERY well and ranked 5th in the nation until they lost to TCU and then to Notre Dame They are now floundering and their ability to finish the season strong is questionable at this point. We have one more home game to go to. It is the BYU game. It will the first time I have attended a Utah BYU game. I amd hoping for a big win.
Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming up and we are very excited. Ashli and the Oconnells are coming to Utah this year which is great. I miss her and the girls, and Brian. It will be wonderful to have them here again.
The most important thing I can think of worth telling about is our Halloween Murder Myster Party this year was excellent. Brittany and I wrote the enitre story ourselfs. We wrote a story based on characters from the Plants Vs. Zombies game by PopCap. Google it, its is a fun game available on iphone, ipad, PC, and Nintendo DS. Brittany and I dressed up as Football zombie (me) and Sunflower (Brittany). The entier experience was great from writting, preparing, decorating, and playing the game with our friends.
The other very exciting news is that Brittany and I have taken "dramastic" steps to paying off our debt. We are doing very well and are head of schedule. We sold a car, made of a lot of overtime money, picked up extra side work, and are selling other things we can. We are following the Dave Ramsey Total Money Make Over system. The book was given to us by Uncle Kelly and Aunt PJ. Thank you to them big time! We deffinatly have gazelle intensity and are doing very well. I recommend the Dave Ramsey system to ANY one who wants to get out of debt, save money, or build wealth. Number one step that everyone whould do is create and adhear to a budget. Such a big deal!
In other news Brittany and I have been attending all Utah football home games this season thanks to our Season Tickets. The Utes were doing VERY well and ranked 5th in the nation until they lost to TCU and then to Notre Dame They are now floundering and their ability to finish the season strong is questionable at this point. We have one more home game to go to. It is the BYU game. It will the first time I have attended a Utah BYU game. I amd hoping for a big win.
Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming up and we are very excited. Ashli and the Oconnells are coming to Utah this year which is great. I miss her and the girls, and Brian. It will be wonderful to have them here again.
August 25, 2010
Journal in reverse, Final Day, Day 6
There were some HUGE thunderstorms last night, very cool. Very loud, and the lighting was very close, it lit up our room even with the black out curtains.
This morning we are went for a walk, took some final pictures of the resort and surroundings, ate breakfast and checked out of our hotel.
The lady told me my final check out costs were $5.66 USD. It was for a phone call and use of the internet. She said I could pay with credit card or pesos. So I asked her what $5.66 USD was in Pesos and she couldn't answer. I ended up just paying with the credit card. Seemed weird at the time.
It is raining pretty hard as we wait for our Cancun Shuttle guy to pick us up and take us to the air port.
Driving to the air port now. It seems like a longer drive back than it did to get here. Probably cuase we were so excited to be in Mexico, and now sad to go back home.
We ate lunch at Margarittaville at the airport, it was expensive! but the salsa was great, I watched how he made it, im going to make some just like him when I get home to my tomato plants. We bought some chocolate and hot sauce at the "Duty Free" store at the air port. Now its time to get on the plane.
The flight was long and boring. I had horrible non reclining seats again, but I did watch a movie on the iPad. The iPad was nice to have for flying. Watching movies and playing games sure helped the time "fly" by. haha.
We landed in Salt Lake City around 10:30 pm and the airport is pretty much a ghost town. It took us 10 min just to get a taxi. Oh well, we're home now. Tomorrow we pick up the dog and then get back to real life.
The vacation was great, and it was one I will not soon forget. Thank you Catalonia Royal Tulum, Xel-ha, and Xplor. Next year who knows? Hawaii? Boston? New Zealand? or maybe just Midvale? Ok, well great vacation, a few days to rest before getting back to work, and then wait for Ute football to start September 2nd.
It is raining pretty hard as we wait for our Cancun Shuttle guy to pick us up and take us to the air port.
Driving to the air port now. It seems like a longer drive back than it did to get here. Probably cuase we were so excited to be in Mexico, and now sad to go back home.
We ate lunch at Margarittaville at the airport, it was expensive! but the salsa was great, I watched how he made it, im going to make some just like him when I get home to my tomato plants. We bought some chocolate and hot sauce at the "Duty Free" store at the air port. Now its time to get on the plane.
The flight was long and boring. I had horrible non reclining seats again, but I did watch a movie on the iPad. The iPad was nice to have for flying. Watching movies and playing games sure helped the time "fly" by. haha.
We landed in Salt Lake City around 10:30 pm and the airport is pretty much a ghost town. It took us 10 min just to get a taxi. Oh well, we're home now. Tomorrow we pick up the dog and then get back to real life.
The vacation was great, and it was one I will not soon forget. Thank you Catalonia Royal Tulum, Xel-ha, and Xplor. Next year who knows? Hawaii? Boston? New Zealand? or maybe just Midvale? Ok, well great vacation, a few days to rest before getting back to work, and then wait for Ute football to start September 2nd.
August 24, 2010
journal in reverse, day 5
8am. This is the latest I've slept in this whole trip. Last night was awesome. Good conversations, laughing, dancing, and the staff around us were so friendly. The best part was the late night swim. There is a sign that says no swimming in the ocean after 8pm, but shhh, we swam anyway.
Although I slept in everyone else was still sleeping. So I went for a walk on the beach with my iPhone camera. I found the local beach dog, and an abandoned resort. The weather is nice but a little windy. The beach flag was flying red while i was walking which means dangerous water. I enjoyed watching the waves crash for a while and then decided to go wake up Brittany.
Everyone was awake and we decided on the continental breakfast this morning instead of the fishy eggs and bacon. I do have to say the coffee is starting taste pretty good by now. The flag flying at the beach is now yellow which means it's safe enohgh to swim. So I think it's time to get some sunscreen on and get in the water.
Brittany fed the angel fish some more and the waves are much bigger today. It makes for some fun playtime on the water.
I have spent so much time in the ocean today that even when I'm sitting in a chair I feel like I'm going up and down. It was Fun at first but it's starting to get nautious.
We're eating
dinner now at the Italian restaurant. It's supposed to be meditrainian. It's good but not great food. The worst part is that it took almost 2 hours to get through this meal.
Today was a long relaxing day of sunning on the beach and swimming in the ocean. There was a huge thunderstorm during a nap and a long dinner. I'm ready for bed, tomorrow we pack and travel home. We won't even get home until 10:30pm
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| This image photoshopped using the iPad |
Everyone was awake and we decided on the continental breakfast this morning instead of the fishy eggs and bacon. I do have to say the coffee is starting taste pretty good by now. The flag flying at the beach is now yellow which means it's safe enohgh to swim. So I think it's time to get some sunscreen on and get in the water.
Brittany fed the angel fish some more and the waves are much bigger today. It makes for some fun playtime on the water.
I have spent so much time in the ocean today that even when I'm sitting in a chair I feel like I'm going up and down. It was Fun at first but it's starting to get nautious.
We're eating
dinner now at the Italian restaurant. It's supposed to be meditrainian. It's good but not great food. The worst part is that it took almost 2 hours to get through this meal.
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August 23, 2010
Journal in Reverse, Day 4
The fishy eggs and bacon are starting to get old now. Also, the food is messing with my tummy a little. I hope my tummy doesn't ruin the day, today we're going to Xplor. Mike found out about Xplor on the internet at work, I think. Anyway it should be a ton of fun, we're going to go down some awesome zip lines, drive some tav 4x4s through the jungle, and swim through some under ground water caves.
Rudolpho picked us up on time today. The drive was shorter, and the conversation was good, just like yesterday. We found out Rudolpho owns the transportation business, and spent the evening at a conference in Cancun.
This place is so cool, there are stalactites and cave wonders all around us. They gave us the run down of the park. It is a very neat concept the whole place centers around one location. You go on an adventure that starts at the heart, and when you are done you finish back at the heart. Also, there are cameras hidden everywhere that take your picture as you enjoy your adventures. They make you where a helmet for safety everywhere you go, but the helmet also has an RFID chip, and at the end of the day, they can pull up all the pictures of each individule based on the helmet number.
We did the zip lines first. There are 14 zip lines total, and the run a total length of about 2 miles. It was so fun, the staff is extremely good at what the do, very friendly, and I never felt unsafe while they were hooking us up to the numerous zip lines. I found out how to twist around while zipping, which in turn forced me to learn how to not twist. Not twisting is the faster way to zip. Soo cool. Debbie was very very nervous about the zip lines, but she did great. How cool is it to do this kind of stuff with the in law parents??? (very)
Driving the 4x4 was next. Brittany did most the driving but I did my share as well. It was a 3 mile trail through the jungle, caves, over suspension bridges, and through a shallow river. You never feel totally disconnected from the park, but you deffinately are driving through the jungle. We were following a VW corporate group, so it slowed us down as they were a very slow group to be behind. The instructor at the beginning though Mike spoke spanish and so instructions were a little confusing. We did eventually get them in english.
The jungle drive took quite a while and so when we were done it was lunch time. We headed to the restaurant they have just as they were opeining. It was perfect, we were almost first in line and didn't have to wait, (as a side note, this whole vacation was perfect timing, we never got stuck behind a lot of people and so we never had to wait. Also the weather was very cooperative, it did rain, but never when were trying to have fun. It was either during naps, or at night, when it was fun to watch the lighting storms on the beach, or while we slept). Back to lunch, it was very yummy and It make me wonder why there aren't any "all inclusive" park resorts in the states. It is a awesome concept, and I would like to see it somewhere back home.
After lunch was the river float on hand paddled rafts. It could have been really neat, but we were stuck behind some gals that didn't get the concept of paddling the raft with your hands. They mostly couldn't figure out how to steer. There was also a screaming baby. So, it sorta sucked. It could have been a peaceful float through a cave, but it wasn't. Thats all I have to say about that.
The rafts could have been nice, but they were frustrating, so it was on to the under ground river swim. They dress you up in these silly yellow life jackets, and then you swim through this nice cool refreshing cave river. Except there were about 20 other people swimming at the same time, so it was a little crowded. Everyone enjoyed the swim. I didn't swim, because the river was about 5'8". So I was tall enough to just walk through the whole thing. The ending was my favorite because there is a huge circle water fall you float though. It is pretty intense because there is water falling all around you. But it was very cool.
At this point we had enjoyed all the major adventures except one. The only thing left was the hammock chair zip line. Its the same concept as a regular zip line, only you sit in a hammock chair instead of a harness. The ending of the zip is into a pool of water. It was refreshing, but less exciting than the real zip line.
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Rudolfo wasn't the one to pick us up, but he sent one of his employees. He was not as cool as Rudolfo, but he was trying his best, and he was still a great driver and profided good conversation for the drive. However, about 10 min away from the hotel the van we were in started making a funny noise. The driver pulled over, and determined we couldn't go any farther. He called zippy the emergency back up transportation and we made it back to the hotel fine. It could have been a little scary, but we felt like we were in good hands the whole time.
Dinner and a late night swim in the ocean ended the day. It was for sure the most fun day of the trip. Something tells me tomorrow will be the most relaxing.
Rudolpho picked us up on time today. The drive was shorter, and the conversation was good, just like yesterday. We found out Rudolpho owns the transportation business, and spent the evening at a conference in Cancun.
The jungle drive took quite a while and so when we were done it was lunch time. We headed to the restaurant they have just as they were opeining. It was perfect, we were almost first in line and didn't have to wait, (as a side note, this whole vacation was perfect timing, we never got stuck behind a lot of people and so we never had to wait. Also the weather was very cooperative, it did rain, but never when were trying to have fun. It was either during naps, or at night, when it was fun to watch the lighting storms on the beach, or while we slept). Back to lunch, it was very yummy and It make me wonder why there aren't any "all inclusive" park resorts in the states. It is a awesome concept, and I would like to see it somewhere back home.
After lunch was the river float on hand paddled rafts. It could have been really neat, but we were stuck behind some gals that didn't get the concept of paddling the raft with your hands. They mostly couldn't figure out how to steer. There was also a screaming baby. So, it sorta sucked. It could have been a peaceful float through a cave, but it wasn't. Thats all I have to say about that.
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Dinner and a late night swim in the ocean ended the day. It was for sure the most fun day of the trip. Something tells me tomorrow will be the most relaxing.
August 22, 2010
A Journal in Reverse, Day 3
We arranged for transportation from the hotel to the Tulum Ruins, then to Xel-Ha, and back to the Hotel. It ended up costing a little more than we expected but still cheaper than going with the package deal the internet wanted us to buy.
Again we were nervous about the transportation because we had the bell boy arrange the shuttle, the guy was late, and in the morning the bell boy was differen't than the boy who we origianlly talked to. It ended up being perfect. The drivers name was Rudolfo, and he was awesome. Destiny asked him a simple question about which of all the ruin isn Mexico is the best. His answer was not just an answer but a history lesson on the Myans and a converstaion that lasted the whole 45 min drive. He took us to the Ruins the "back" way as to avoid all the traffic and it was very neat, not only that but he walked us the the ticket counter and made sure we were going get going right. He told us he would want 1 hour and 30 min and then take us to Xel-Ha.
We met up with Rudolfo at the prearranged meeting time and he took us to Xel-Ha. Again more great converstaion from the driver. He was so friendly and informative.
Once at Xel-Ha we lathered our skin with bio-degradable sun screen. The resort requires the hippy sun screen so as to not damage the eco system. whatever. The stuff is thick and sticky. Very hard to rub in.
Xel-Ha is like a big natural water park. There are serveral underground rivers that feed this big ocean inlet. You can snorkel, swim with Manatees, swim with Dolphins and Snuba dive. Which is like scuba and snorkle all in one. They have rock cliffs you can jump off of into the water and water caves, AKA "cenotes"
After a long float down a cool watered river we ate lunch. The float was nice, I had my snorkel gear, but there wasn't much to see. Lunch was ymmy, but anything would have been great as hungry as I was.
After lunch was my favorite part. My headache was killing me and I was exhausted. The whole family decided a little nap on the hammocks would be really nice. They were right. I fell alseep quickly even though I thought I never could sleep in that kind of heat. Brittany woke me up a bit later and it was time to snorkel some more.
We reapplyed the thick sun screen and headed to the opening area of the inlet. As soon as we got in the water a huge school of Barricuda fish swam by. It was very very cool. There were tons of fish and the water was clear. We swam the width of the opening to the other side where there were "cenotes" or "water caves" Once inside we saw a huge fish, one about the size of Apollo, our dog. It freaked out Brittany and Destiny, but I thought it was cool.
My head ache was pounding at this point and it was almost time to meet back up with Rudolfo to take us back to the Hotel. I did see a star fish on my swim back to the dock area.
We got a little lost trying to find our way back to our lockers, but it was cool cause we got to see the dophins doing some of thier tricks.
Back at the hotel we napped, ate dinner at the Tapas resturant, and then went to bed, we had a long day behind us with another long day ahead of us. The Tapas resturant was cool, it we very modern feel, and the style of food was american, but they came out on small plates, so you ordered serveral little dinners and shared around. It was a great idea, with a great atmosphere, but the food was only just OK.
Good night now, tomorrow is Xplor, ziplines and swimming in a water cave, and moreA Journal in Reverse, Day 2
Aug 15
Good morning! Lets put our swim stuff on under our clothes so we can go straight to the beach after breakfast.
Breakfast is on the opposite side of the beach area, about a 5 min walk. The eggs and bacon taste like fish. the milk in the coffee looks funny. My pancakes are good, but the syrup is different. Again, welcome to mexico, things are slightly differen't than what im used to. The food wasn't BAD, but after dinner last night I was expecting something ymmier.
Mike and Desi remembered their snorkel gear so they are heading straight to the beach. The rest of us have to go back to our rooms before we head to the sandy area.
This is the first time snorkeling in the ocean, so it took some time to get used to it, but we are all swimming with our flippers and doing quite well. We see fish and coral, and sand. The water is very clearn, but there is not a LOT of life to see. I found a sting ray floating along the bottem of the ocean. It was very cool! My fingers are getting all wrinkled and my belly tells me im hungry. Its time for lunch!
After lunch we rent (for free) some kayaks and paddle out into the water. Th 6 of us are enjoying our time, but soon realise we should have broght our snorkel so we could see what might be further out. So we head back into shore. Chad and Debbie to not come back out with us. We snorkel around a bit, but nothing new.
More laying on the beach, oh so nice. But with the sun and play, its time for a nap.
We ate dinner at the Mexican resturant tonight. I had a burrito, it was good. We also tried some very hot peppers.
After that, Brittany and I were still tired, so we called it a night. Tomorrow Tulum Ruins and Xel-Ha
Good morning! Lets put our swim stuff on under our clothes so we can go straight to the beach after breakfast.
Breakfast is on the opposite side of the beach area, about a 5 min walk. The eggs and bacon taste like fish. the milk in the coffee looks funny. My pancakes are good, but the syrup is different. Again, welcome to mexico, things are slightly differen't than what im used to. The food wasn't BAD, but after dinner last night I was expecting something ymmier.
Mike and Desi remembered their snorkel gear so they are heading straight to the beach. The rest of us have to go back to our rooms before we head to the sandy area.
Well, I must say this... If we didn't have anything else planned, and we just sat on the beach and watched the waves come and go, this would be a perfect vacation. SO NICE!
After some relaxing, its time to play. The girls are already in the water feeding the angel fish and I am the last to choose to get wet. Ive never LOVED the ocean, and the salt water always bothered me, but play I will!The angel fish are very cool, brittany is feeding them a bannana, and they are going nuts for it. If these angel fish were pirhannas we would all be eaten alive.
The weather is nice, and the waves aren't big at all, so its time to snorkel.
More laying on the beach, oh so nice. But with the sun and play, its time for a nap.
We ate dinner at the Mexican resturant tonight. I had a burrito, it was good. We also tried some very hot peppers.
After that, Brittany and I were still tired, so we called it a night. Tomorrow Tulum Ruins and Xel-Ha
A journal in revearse, Day 1
In theater class I was taught never to apologize for anything before you actually do it. So, I am not going to say sorry for not writting any blog posts. Im just going to get started again...
This last week Brittany and I went on a family vacation with the Kerrs (Chad, Debbie, Destiny, and Mike). We went to Playa del Carmen area of Mexico, which is just south of Cancun. These next blog posts I am writting after the fact, but will try to write like a journal.
Aug 14th 2010
Today is going to be a long day, Brittany and I woke up at 3am. We just couldn't sleep, the anticipation is more intense than Christmas Eve night. Our flight takes off around 7am, but we have to drive the Chad and Debbies, finish the group packing, and take a taxi to the airport. They say you are supposed to be there at least 2 hours early. So, we're up at 3am. I already have my traveling outfit picked out, I wanted to be as comfortable as possible on the plane.
We've arrived at Chad and Debbies. Everyone is awake, but not so chipper. Hopefully this vacation starts soon.
The Taxi is late, we were supposed to leave 10 min ago. I called the cab service they said the guy is on his way. I hope he gets here soon.
When I called for transportation I recieved 2 quotes. A shuttle service wanted $68 to take us to the airport, a Taxi wanted about $20 No brainer decision their! Oh, the guy just arrived, its time to go.
Our first stop is going to be Pheonix, AZ we have a short hour layover, and then a short 4.5 hour flight and we will be in Mexico. Debbie has worried about the flying for months now. But she is doing quite well. A few nerves are showing, but all in all, she is giong GREAT! Chad Loves the window seat. He is a big time hiker and loves to see all the different views the land has to offer, so from a plane he loves to see what the land looks like from above. His giddyness is like a child.
Both flights we had crappy seats. Always near the lavatory, or an exit row. You frequent flyers might alrady be aware that these seasts don't recline, for those of you who don't already know, they don't recline.
We are landing in Mexico now, there is a strange white smokey substance leaking into the cabin along the sides of the air plane. It is cold to the touch and has no smell. My guess is that it is some sort of condensation due to temprature and humidity, but some people in the plane are acting like babies about it. Im sure if there was a problem they would announce something
Immigration and customs went smoothly, but hearding an entire family through the proccess is exhausting. I see other families at the airport with small children and strollers and lots of bags. How do they do it all? I think if we have children we will not go to Mexico until they can walk on thier own.
Cancun Shuttle is the shuttle service we booked on the internet to take us from the airport to our hotel. It has made me very nervous to purchase something like shuttle service over the internet. They charged my Credit Card, they called the day befor the trip to confirm everything, but how do I know there will be a guy waiting for ME and my Family? They said to look for a guy in an orange vest holding a sign with the Cancun shuttle logo. Have you hever been to the Mexico airport? There are a million people trying to get your attention, time share salesmen, transportaiton drivers, and who knows else. I cant see the guy I am supposed to be looking for, my mind is racing. Oh crap we got screwed. Now what are we going to do??? OH, there he is, we're good. "everyone, this way" as I heard the family (see, transportaion to and from the airport was my job and I did not want to screw it up)
Checking in at our all inclusive resort took some time. I think it was more that were 6 people, with 3 differen't check ins that made it take so long. Other than that all is well. They will deliver our bags to our rooms, they had a nice juice drink waiting for us to refresh us form our long trip and cold damp towel to cool off with. The temperature and humidity are amazing, phew its hot. They put a braclet thing on our wrists, we have to wear it the entire week we are here. Thats how they knew we paid instead of just sneaked in off the beach.
The walk to the rooms is beautiful, and there are iguanas and other small wildlife all around.
Our room is very nice. They left us a fruit bowl and bottle and champagne, and a fully stocked mini bar, which is free to partake of (this is all inclusive).
The family take a moment to settle, but we are starving. Lets go eat! There are several resturants at the hotel but only 3 of them are open each night. Tonight we will just go scope it out and take whatever looks easiest. We walked to the beach. On the way there is a very neat wooden bridge across the jungle and an amazing pool. As we aproach the beach, the ocean draws us in, like the tides pull the water. Our feet are suddenly running, splashing, and enjoying in the warm, clean, clear, ocean. This is going to be fun!
We were told the dress code for dinners is casual. So none of us dressed up in any way for dinner, just our traveling outfits. Chad and I were told we didn't meet the code because we didn't have any sleeves on our shirts. Of course the girls don't need sleeves, but the men do. So, its back to the room to change before we can eat.
Tonights dinner was amazing. I had bbq ribs, others had steak. If all the food here is this good, we are in for a treat!
We were told that tonight is the pool party night. The DJ is setting up his sound system and lights. Cool! Everyone is very tired thought, and its only 8pm. The party doesn't even start until 9:30.
The pool is closed for the moment, but Debbie just jumped in anyway. The pool boy told her she had to get out. We are going to have to wait until the party starts to get in to pool. We wait for about 10 minutes, but everyone is too tired to sit and wait an hour more to get started. Mike and Desi call it a night and head to their room. The 4 of us head to the Chill area. Its a cool relaxing area with little huts and small sandy area, and a shallow pool. I am so tired, but I think I can manage a soak in the warm shallow pool.
The soak was so relaxing and quite romantic. It was wonderful to just lay back and relax in the pool. But the DJ is starting to play his music and the pool boys are throwing floaty things in the pool to lay on. There are only about 10 people even to be seen, and only one girl in the pool. There is another girl dancing to the music at the edge of the pool.
Chad Brittany and I are the only ones left from the family. Everyone else went to bed. We soak in the pool for a bit. Until a pool boy comes by and invites us to play vollyball. Im tired, but eh, sure why not. We play for about 30 min I guess. Its hard to play the area is too big, the water is a little too deep and not enough people are playing.
As we left the pool I noticed a few more people had arrived to party, but not a lot. Its late, its been a long day, and its time for bed. More relaxing tomorrow with adventures to come the rest of the week. Goodnight, Welcome to Mexico!
This last week Brittany and I went on a family vacation with the Kerrs (Chad, Debbie, Destiny, and Mike). We went to Playa del Carmen area of Mexico, which is just south of Cancun. These next blog posts I am writting after the fact, but will try to write like a journal.
Aug 14th 2010
Today is going to be a long day, Brittany and I woke up at 3am. We just couldn't sleep, the anticipation is more intense than Christmas Eve night. Our flight takes off around 7am, but we have to drive the Chad and Debbies, finish the group packing, and take a taxi to the airport. They say you are supposed to be there at least 2 hours early. So, we're up at 3am. I already have my traveling outfit picked out, I wanted to be as comfortable as possible on the plane.
We've arrived at Chad and Debbies. Everyone is awake, but not so chipper. Hopefully this vacation starts soon.
The Taxi is late, we were supposed to leave 10 min ago. I called the cab service they said the guy is on his way. I hope he gets here soon.
When I called for transportation I recieved 2 quotes. A shuttle service wanted $68 to take us to the airport, a Taxi wanted about $20 No brainer decision their! Oh, the guy just arrived, its time to go.
Our first stop is going to be Pheonix, AZ we have a short hour layover, and then a short 4.5 hour flight and we will be in Mexico. Debbie has worried about the flying for months now. But she is doing quite well. A few nerves are showing, but all in all, she is giong GREAT! Chad Loves the window seat. He is a big time hiker and loves to see all the different views the land has to offer, so from a plane he loves to see what the land looks like from above. His giddyness is like a child.
Both flights we had crappy seats. Always near the lavatory, or an exit row. You frequent flyers might alrady be aware that these seasts don't recline, for those of you who don't already know, they don't recline.
We are landing in Mexico now, there is a strange white smokey substance leaking into the cabin along the sides of the air plane. It is cold to the touch and has no smell. My guess is that it is some sort of condensation due to temprature and humidity, but some people in the plane are acting like babies about it. Im sure if there was a problem they would announce something
Immigration and customs went smoothly, but hearding an entire family through the proccess is exhausting. I see other families at the airport with small children and strollers and lots of bags. How do they do it all? I think if we have children we will not go to Mexico until they can walk on thier own.
Cancun Shuttle is the shuttle service we booked on the internet to take us from the airport to our hotel. It has made me very nervous to purchase something like shuttle service over the internet. They charged my Credit Card, they called the day befor the trip to confirm everything, but how do I know there will be a guy waiting for ME and my Family? They said to look for a guy in an orange vest holding a sign with the Cancun shuttle logo. Have you hever been to the Mexico airport? There are a million people trying to get your attention, time share salesmen, transportaiton drivers, and who knows else. I cant see the guy I am supposed to be looking for, my mind is racing. Oh crap we got screwed. Now what are we going to do??? OH, there he is, we're good. "everyone, this way" as I heard the family (see, transportaion to and from the airport was my job and I did not want to screw it up)
The shuttle ride was.... nice. It was private, which means no one else was in the van and we were able to drive straight to our hotel. But it took the whole family a few minutes to realise the speedometer needle pointing at the numbers 120 were KM/H and not MPH. Still, the driver was going very fast for this 2 lane road, ignoring his turn signal, and totally ignoring any lines painted on the road. Debbie actually slept through the drive, Chad tried to talk about "soccer football" to the driver who didn't speak English and had communicated he didn't care for "soccer football" Brittany and I just laugh. The drive was about 45 min and we arrived at Hotel Catalonia Royal Tulum
Checking in at our all inclusive resort took some time. I think it was more that were 6 people, with 3 differen't check ins that made it take so long. Other than that all is well. They will deliver our bags to our rooms, they had a nice juice drink waiting for us to refresh us form our long trip and cold damp towel to cool off with. The temperature and humidity are amazing, phew its hot. They put a braclet thing on our wrists, we have to wear it the entire week we are here. Thats how they knew we paid instead of just sneaked in off the beach.
Our room is very nice. They left us a fruit bowl and bottle and champagne, and a fully stocked mini bar, which is free to partake of (this is all inclusive).
The family take a moment to settle, but we are starving. Lets go eat! There are several resturants at the hotel but only 3 of them are open each night. Tonight we will just go scope it out and take whatever looks easiest. We walked to the beach. On the way there is a very neat wooden bridge across the jungle and an amazing pool. As we aproach the beach, the ocean draws us in, like the tides pull the water. Our feet are suddenly running, splashing, and enjoying in the warm, clean, clear, ocean. This is going to be fun!
We were told the dress code for dinners is casual. So none of us dressed up in any way for dinner, just our traveling outfits. Chad and I were told we didn't meet the code because we didn't have any sleeves on our shirts. Of course the girls don't need sleeves, but the men do. So, its back to the room to change before we can eat.
Tonights dinner was amazing. I had bbq ribs, others had steak. If all the food here is this good, we are in for a treat!
We were told that tonight is the pool party night. The DJ is setting up his sound system and lights. Cool! Everyone is very tired thought, and its only 8pm. The party doesn't even start until 9:30.
The soak was so relaxing and quite romantic. It was wonderful to just lay back and relax in the pool. But the DJ is starting to play his music and the pool boys are throwing floaty things in the pool to lay on. There are only about 10 people even to be seen, and only one girl in the pool. There is another girl dancing to the music at the edge of the pool.
Chad Brittany and I are the only ones left from the family. Everyone else went to bed. We soak in the pool for a bit. Until a pool boy comes by and invites us to play vollyball. Im tired, but eh, sure why not. We play for about 30 min I guess. Its hard to play the area is too big, the water is a little too deep and not enough people are playing.
As we left the pool I noticed a few more people had arrived to party, but not a lot. Its late, its been a long day, and its time for bed. More relaxing tomorrow with adventures to come the rest of the week. Goodnight, Welcome to Mexico!
May 13, 2010
Bloggers Block
I really really want to blog something. I know the 6 of you who read this enjoy hearing the things I have to say here, but I really don't know what to say.
On a final note I am craving a sugarglazed doughnut right NOW.
- Ive been working a lot lately. Thats good for the paycheck. Bad for the free time.
- Its been rainy on the weekdays and nice on the weekends. Only problem is I don't necessarily have weekends off work, so Im not yet enjoying any of the scarce nice weather.
- Ive been running some sprinkler lines for the garden. I am almost finished, but with limited time to work outside (bad weather, lots of overtime) Its been hard to finish up this project. I was lucky to mow the lawn last night and finish connecting the pipes together. Now I just have to tie into the valves, and then bury all the pipes.
- After I get the sprinkler project finished I can plan some vegitables. I feel like im getting a late start in the garden. Im hoping I don't lose too much time.
- Brittany has been taking a stained glass class on wednesday nights with her Mom. I thought that it wouldn't effect me too much to have her got for 3 hours on a wednesday night, but Im finding I really really miss her when shes gone. Much more than I thought I would.
- Going to be going to MO soon to see my Sister and her family. I cant wait. It should be a great vacation. Thanks mom for allowing this to happen.
- I really want an ipad. I don't know why. I cant really think of any valid reason to own one, but ive played with one and it just tickels my fancy. I also want to buy the new iphone when it comes out. To afford this I am trying to work some extra freelance hours. I am also working extra freelance hours to save for a vacation we are going on in August. I am also working extra freelance hours to pay off debt. The priorities are so hard to keep straight. Do the things I know need to be done, or do the things I really want to do? or both?
On a final note I am craving a sugarglazed doughnut right NOW.
May 1, 2010
The water pipe.
Last weekend our almost 60 year old house starting showing signs of ageing. It sprung a leak.
I woke up early in the morning to get ready for work. About 5:00 AM like I always do, nothing was different from my normal routine, except that as I headed to the bathroom to "freshen up" I could hear water running. You know the sound, like someone left the toilet handle running. So, I checked the toilets, no problems there. Then my mind went to panic. Oh-no, our ice maker water line might be pouring water all over our hardwood floors in the kitchen... Nope, all was dry in the kitchen. Puzzled I thought of the next possibility. My groggy mind straining to rev its engine this early in the morning. I remembered that I had been playing with the yard sprinklers to get them ready for the warm weather. So I ran outside to look for running sprinklers... again, nothing. Strange. Maybe Im just worrying too much, besides I need to get ready for work, im wasting time and I need to be to work on time.
But, the water pressure at the sink is low, and I just know there is a serious problem. Now my brain is starting to purr. Brittany wakes up, and comes to find me. I think she somehow knew something was wrong. I tell her the situation, and the ideas ive already tried. We are both puzzled. Not knowing what to do, because we have no idea what the problem is, I continue to get ready for work. I brush me teeth, using low water pressure to rinse my mouth. I slap the sink, "darn it" I think, something is wrong I've got to figure it out.
So, I ran outside again to check the main water valve at the street. I again can hear the water running, but I see nothing. And then I take a step. SQUISH-SLOSH. ICK! Im standing is 2 inches of muddy water. Ah Ha! This makes sense. Ok, whats happening here? Come on brain, THINK! Its either the sprinkler line, or the main water line. I double check to make sure all lines to the sprinklers and shut off. Confirmed. Darn, this problem is big, its the main water line.
Call to work. Its busy, they need me.
Click
Both parties frustrated.
We rallied the troops (anyone with a strong back and a shovel) and started digging at about Noon. And when I saw We, and mean the troops, because I was stuck at work! I was able to show up about about 1:00pm. We dug and we dug for 5 hours and the end result was this!
LONG STORY SHORTENED -- Home Depot and Lowes didn't have what I needed. We were faced with waiting until Monday when the big boy plumbing shops opened up. But the guy and Lowes had a great idea to run a temporary line. So we worked until midnight to get temporary water to the house. It was wonderful. The water pressure was even better than normal.
They next day my buddies were so excited to work on my problems that they took off work just to help out. Wow, how awesome is that? I felt a little bad, but Ill take the charity! We went to the plumbing store, got a GREAT deal on all the stuff we needed and headed back to the house to get busy. An hour later we had water running to the house. No leaks, no drips, no problem. It was amazing how simple it really was.
Now the hard part, putting all the dirt back in the hole. First thing first, LUNCH. I fed all the volunteers well. It was the least they deserved.
A few hours later all the dirt was back in the hole the grass was back in place and the girls of the men who were workin had BBQed some yummy food for dinner. We had dinner, and some chatting time and then we sent everyone home. It had been a long weekend, in the sun, in the heat, lots of stress. I was tired.
In the end I saved about $2000.00 learned some new tricks, and found out I have a great family and wonderful friends. I am forever greatful for everything everyone did to help.
Lessons learned:
Keep a cool head when disaster strikes
Plumbers are expensive
The dirt in my front yard is soft, sandy, and relatively easy to dig (you know for digging 4 feet deep)
My family is awesome
My friends are the best
Copper is expensive, Plastic is not
If you are digging a large hole and are planning on putting the dirt back in the hole, put some ply wood down so that the dirt doesn't get stuck in the grass all around it.
I woke up early in the morning to get ready for work. About 5:00 AM like I always do, nothing was different from my normal routine, except that as I headed to the bathroom to "freshen up" I could hear water running. You know the sound, like someone left the toilet handle running. So, I checked the toilets, no problems there. Then my mind went to panic. Oh-no, our ice maker water line might be pouring water all over our hardwood floors in the kitchen... Nope, all was dry in the kitchen. Puzzled I thought of the next possibility. My groggy mind straining to rev its engine this early in the morning. I remembered that I had been playing with the yard sprinklers to get them ready for the warm weather. So I ran outside to look for running sprinklers... again, nothing. Strange. Maybe Im just worrying too much, besides I need to get ready for work, im wasting time and I need to be to work on time.
But, the water pressure at the sink is low, and I just know there is a serious problem. Now my brain is starting to purr. Brittany wakes up, and comes to find me. I think she somehow knew something was wrong. I tell her the situation, and the ideas ive already tried. We are both puzzled. Not knowing what to do, because we have no idea what the problem is, I continue to get ready for work. I brush me teeth, using low water pressure to rinse my mouth. I slap the sink, "darn it" I think, something is wrong I've got to figure it out.
So, I ran outside again to check the main water valve at the street. I again can hear the water running, but I see nothing. And then I take a step. SQUISH-SLOSH. ICK! Im standing is 2 inches of muddy water. Ah Ha! This makes sense. Ok, whats happening here? Come on brain, THINK! Its either the sprinkler line, or the main water line. I double check to make sure all lines to the sprinklers and shut off. Confirmed. Darn, this problem is big, its the main water line.
Call to work. Its busy, they need me.
Me--"Work, Hi its Eddie, umm im gonna be late I have a water problem"
Work-- "Umm, (silence) ok."
Me -- "Its my main water line, I gotta get it shut off, and then Ill be in"
Work -- "Are you sure?"
Me -- "Yeah, sorry. Ill be there as quick as I can"
Click
Both parties frustrated.
LONG STORY SHORTENED... I got the water line turned off, and headed to work. Stress level HIGH (water pressure, very LOW).
I call Brittany, we discuss our options. We decided to call a plumber and get a quote to have it fixed. Did you know plumbers are expensive, and when its an emergency thing like WATER TO THE HOUSE! they charge even more. Lets just say, the quote we got was hard to swallow. (After all we had nothing to wash it down with.) I called the home insurance. They don't cover the water line on the outside of the house. Of course. Dad offered to help pay. Im stubborn. I don't want his money, not until I've exhausted my options. The only option left was to fix it our self. I found out if I did the digging I could save a little money, and then have a qualified plumber fix the water line. So, not overly HAPPY about having to dig a big hole we decided it was our best option. At the very least we would have a good start.
We rallied the troops (anyone with a strong back and a shovel) and started digging at about Noon. And when I saw We, and mean the troops, because I was stuck at work! I was able to show up about about 1:00pm. We dug and we dug for 5 hours and the end result was this!
I called a couple of friends who had some plumbing experience and they were able to come over to the house around 7pm and evaluate the situation. They were confident they could fix it then and there. They were ready to work all night if needed. So we went to the local hardware store looking for the parts.
LONG STORY SHORTENED -- Home Depot and Lowes didn't have what I needed. We were faced with waiting until Monday when the big boy plumbing shops opened up. But the guy and Lowes had a great idea to run a temporary line. So we worked until midnight to get temporary water to the house. It was wonderful. The water pressure was even better than normal.
They next day my buddies were so excited to work on my problems that they took off work just to help out. Wow, how awesome is that? I felt a little bad, but Ill take the charity! We went to the plumbing store, got a GREAT deal on all the stuff we needed and headed back to the house to get busy. An hour later we had water running to the house. No leaks, no drips, no problem. It was amazing how simple it really was.
Now the hard part, putting all the dirt back in the hole. First thing first, LUNCH. I fed all the volunteers well. It was the least they deserved.
A few hours later all the dirt was back in the hole the grass was back in place and the girls of the men who were workin had BBQed some yummy food for dinner. We had dinner, and some chatting time and then we sent everyone home. It had been a long weekend, in the sun, in the heat, lots of stress. I was tired.
In the end I saved about $2000.00 learned some new tricks, and found out I have a great family and wonderful friends. I am forever greatful for everything everyone did to help.
Lessons learned:
Keep a cool head when disaster strikes
Plumbers are expensive
The dirt in my front yard is soft, sandy, and relatively easy to dig (you know for digging 4 feet deep)
My family is awesome
My friends are the best
Copper is expensive, Plastic is not
If you are digging a large hole and are planning on putting the dirt back in the hole, put some ply wood down so that the dirt doesn't get stuck in the grass all around it.
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