tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37003844969266479872024-02-19T00:23:51.424-06:00Planet MarTayPlanet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.comBlogger164125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-9466935077574834862018-09-20T10:30:00.000-05:002018-09-20T11:25:37.649-05:00Checking Things Off of My 2018 "To Do" ListAs you know, at the beginning of the year, I made several goals for myself. I'm glad you're helping me stay accountable!<br />
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1. Give back to my community by volunteering my time: I've been trying different volunteer opportunities: at my local nature preserve, the no kill animal shelter, random community events, Tampa Bay clean up with co-workers but nothing has really "stuck" or inspired me to continue with any of these so far. Have you had the same experience? Did you find something that you loved?<br />
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2. Travel! This year, I've had some staycations, traveled for work and for fun, so I think I'm good there. Recently, I checked two items off of my list with one trip. Friends and I celebrated our birthdays by hiking a 14er and just generally having a great time. Years ago, I told myself that I would "get out of this country" once a year. I haven't always met that goal and since purchasing a house, don't know if I'll meet that goal this year, but I still have time! One of my dearest friends just moved to England for a few years. My goal is to visit her by the summer of 2019...while I'm there, I might as well go to Paris...if someone twisted my arm, then maybe visit my friend in Switzerland, too. Side note...I was mentioning the people who I met when I worked a summer in Colorado. One of my friends from that summer and I re-connected via social media. She now lives in New Zealand. I've always wanted to visit that country and within the past week, New Zealand has come up at least 3 times. I think the universe it telling me to GO! I'd love to do some hiking there, and catching up with my friend would be icing on the cake! I've heard wonderful things about the avalanche trail - although, I'm not too fond of the name! Have any of you traveled to New Zealand? Do you have any must see places? <br />
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3. Go snorkeling at Egmont Key: I went, earlier this year, but it was too choppy and cold to snorkel. This goal is a primo reason to go back! The Gulf is having quite a horrible time with red tide - so many animals are dying...tortoises, fish and dolphins. :-( Hopefully, it will end soon & I can check this one off of my list.<br />
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4. Read one book per month: as far as reading one book per month...I knew that this was going to be difficult, but if I gave myself that challenge, I would definitely read more...which I have. So far, I've read:<br />
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"<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Bon-Bons-Yoga-Pants-Happiness/dp/B01MUCWK3D/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1532719892&sr=1-1&keywords=bon+bons+to+yoga+pants">Bon Bons to Yoga Pants</a>" by Katie Cross<br />
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This was a freebie with my amazon prime account, so I thought I'd give it a go. It was a quick and easy read. Although, it was a chick-lit (which I actually love every now and then) that was a bit too young for me, I did enjoy the writing style and humor. I would highly recommend it for a younger audience.<br />
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"<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Clean-Expanded-Revolutionary-Program-Restore-ebook/dp/B007MAU5UG/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1532719863&sr=1-1&keywords=clean">Clean</a>" by Alejandro Junger<br />
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Parts and pieces of this diet were good, but I don't know how sustainable. The book was ok. Mostly it pointed out that we have become creatures who value convenience over health and nutrition.<br />
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"<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_2_16?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=the+code+of+the+extraordinary+mind+by+vishen+lakhiani&sprefix=the+code+of+the+%2Cdigital-text%2C214&crid=ENN71MLU21SD">The Code of the Extraordinary Mind</a>" by Vishen Lakhiani<br />
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This book was recommended to me by my primary care physician...their group is ALWAYS giving me homework! It was a good reminder of little adjustments that you can make in your everyday life to achieve and surpass your goals. <br />
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"<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Simple-Spiritual-Modern-Times-ebook/dp/B00TXO5SZQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1532719709&sr=1-1&keywords=deep+and+simple">Deep and Simple</a>" by Bo Lozoff <br />
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I just finished this book and will be reading it again. Yeah, it was that good. There are a lot of references to God and religion which would normally be a turn off for me, but in the context of the book, it doesn't bother me...it's not "preachy." Although, I was raised Christian, now my beliefs are a bit different and I don't identify with any organized religion that I know of...anyway, this book provides different, powerful perspectives. It encourages the reader to embrace difficulties or road blocks, as they are placed in our way to teach lessons and/or catapult us to a higher level, to be more mindful and engaged in the most mundane of tasks or interactions. Deep and simple is much more essential and valuable than shallow and complex. I highly recommend this book!</div>
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"<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Were-All-Doing-Time-Getting/dp/0961444401/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1534354562&sr=8-1&keywords=we%27re+all+doing+time+bo+lozoff">We're All Doing Time</a>" by Bo Lozoff<br />
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I loved "Deep and Simple" so much, I wanted to read another book by Bo Lozoff. This book (I think) was really intended for incarcerated individuals, who are literally doing time. However, my view is that this book still provides insight and guidance on practicing kindness and breaking free from both mental and physical prisons. I'm not that far into the book. So, I'll get back to you on this!<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_1_7?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=girl+wash+your+face+rachel+hollis&sprefix=girl+wa%2Caps%2C213&crid=KGTLYNMIBPEQ">"Girl Wash your Face"</a> by Rachel Hollis<br />
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I received a 30 day trial of audible, so started listening to this book, by recommendation. In true attention deficit disorder fashion, I was switching between listening to this and reading "We're All Doing Time." This one was ok...towards the end of the book, I really couldn't wait for it to be over. Had I been reading it, I'm sure I never would have finished. Overall, I found that I didn't relate to much of the book. Also, the narrator plays a role in book likability, don't you think? Well, I do, now. The author is the narrator. It's her story. She's passionate about what she's learned about the lies that she has told herself...but it's HER story. She's had a lot of therapy to discover things about herself; how traumas have shaped coping mechanisms that are stifling. She tells herself all sorts of lies. Lies about being the perfect mother, having the perfect career, making excuses for others to make her feel better, how to be the perfect partner...all of these lies that are doing no good. My story is different, yours is different. She tends to sound preachy in some parts, which was off putting to me and the way she pronounces contractions began to grate on me. Didn't was "Did-ent." I know it's superficial, but it's like nails on a chalkboard. The more it grated on me, the more contractions she spoke. Some of the book is common sense, like giving yourself a break, goal setting, meditating and envisioning those goals, but still they are good reminders. </div>
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Almost 6 books in nine months isn't so bad, right? I also took a Law for Financial Professionals (yawn fest) class that sidelined my "reading for pleasure" for a few months. So, I'm happy with what I've accomplished with this goal!<br />
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5. Hike a 14er with friends - Check! I'm ready to do the next one. Luckily, I have friends who are ready to plan and hike another one with me. Maybe in New Zealand??!!!<br />
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6. Gratitude Jar! While I haven't been officially doing my gratitude jar, I do try to think of 2 things each day for which I am grateful. On my birthday, one friend asked me 3 things that I was grateful for this year and 3 things I was looking forward to in the upcoming year. I really liked thinking about it...I might make it a birthday tradition. :-)<br />
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7. Kayak more: My paddle board and I have become good friends. It's not exactly the same, but they're both manual powered vessels on the water, right? I think that qualifies, so I'm checking that off the list, too.<br />
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8. Always find time to play! I think I'm pretty good with this one. I'm still such a little kid. Those who know me well, can attest to this! :-)Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-36413244361373568182018-08-29T11:00:00.000-05:002018-08-29T11:00:11.243-05:00Comedy of ErrorsY'all...have I got a story for you! One of my credit card companies allows free credit report monitoring, which I use, almost daily. That's how I found out that some of my information has been exposed on the dark web...multiple times. :-/ I want to make sure that I get "in front" of any unauthorized activity. <br />
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I recently bought a house and now, it seems like EVERYBODY wants what's left of my money. It could be worse and I know that it will subside, it's just annoying. Then, one morning I was checking my credit report and something popped up. A medical debt from Memphis that was "charged off." Immediately, I thought that someone had jacked my information, because I haven't lived in Memphis for almost 6 years. <br />
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Luckily, the creditor's information was listed, including a phone number. So, I promptly called to get it all sorted out. The representative let me know that this charge was from September of last year from an ER visit. Whoops...that WAS me. I escaped Hurricane Irma in Memphis. While I was there, I was bitten by something and my leg swelled to twice its size. Since, I had been doing a lot of traveling, I thought it might be a blood clot. After the Dr. asked me questions about my activity level, he was like, "probably not a blood clot." And, it wasn't...I never felt a bite, but my sister noticed a red dot on the back of my thigh - after the ER visit, of course...but I digress. Anyway, I paid my hospital co-pay in the ER and received bills from the doctor and labs, so thought I was good. Well, evidently, I owed the hospital additional money but never received a bill because those jokers fat fingered my address or something. Bear with me...it gets better. <br />
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The collection agency representative rolled off an address and asked me if it was correct. I sad "no." I never received any sort of bill. Was the mail returned? Did anyone do any sort of address validation (most companies have a process like this for returned mail, right?)? Then, she said, "well, we have a copy of your drivers license. Is this your address?" I said, "yes, until recently, that was my address." THEN, she proceeded to tell me that her collection agency is not allowed to work with people in FL (they HAD my FL license!! Did that not raise a red flag??), so they would never have called me or sent any correspondence. Ok, well how in the crap was I supposed to pay this? Had it not shown up on my credit report, I would have never known. I'm like a Lannister...well, without all of the castles, killing, conniving, and incest. Ok, maybe I'm not like a Lannister...but I pay my debts!<br />
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After talking this through with the representative, she agreed that this was handled poorly from the start. I was not given an opportunity to pay this and it should be taken off of my credit report. Her manager approved for it to be removed, <strong><em>if</em></strong> I paid the balance that day.<br />
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Ok...I was born at night, but not last night. If I paid the entire balance, what motivation would they have to keep their end of the bargain? So, I said that I couldn't afford the whole thing, but could pay half of the balance and set up monthly payments for the rest. The representative agreed. Most of the people I told about this had similar stories and all of them said, "good luck getting it off of your credit report...in my case, it was removed after 7 years."<br />
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Well, I am happy to say, that it has been removed from my credit report, now!! It took two weeks longer than they said that it would, but I'm persistent and was prepared to tell the representative that they would not receive another dime from me until the item was removed from my credit...but I didn't have to go all "bad cop" on her. I may have to buy a lottery ticket because luck is on my side. :-)Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-26253125463133968922018-08-16T11:34:00.000-05:002018-08-27T11:11:19.091-05:00Birthday 14er!<div style="border-image: none;">
People who know me well, know that I <strike>like</strike> love challenging myself. I'll try just about anything once, if only to see if my body can do it (cycling a double metric century - that's 124 miles y'all, UMCA year rounder, Olympic triathlon and the list goes on). Just ask my brother who has "dared" me to do things practically my whole life. Haha!! I also LOVE hiking. Ever since one of my best friends who I've known since college, mentioned a 14er to me, I've had the itch to accomplish one.</div>
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Last year, another one of my besties moved to Colorado. Color me so excited to visit her! Last year, when I visited her, we hiked and hiked. It was a blast, but I was not in the best shape because...Florida. So, no 14er in the cards for me, then. However, we talked about it then and throughout the year. We tossed out the idea of doing it on/around our birthdays. Well, her birthday is two days before mine (I tend to have a ton of friends born in August...maybe we just "get each other") and our birthdays fell on the weekend, this year! Enter the birthday weekend, including a 14er!</div>
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We settled on Grays Peak. I received a lot of good feedback about it and read articles that supported it being a good 1st 14er. The trail was well marked, relatively easy (as far as 14er's go) and it was pretty popular, so if something went wrong, there were people around who could help or go and get help. </div>
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I landed in Denver and we took off towards Grays. Our plan was to hike, early in the morning. In hindsight, it might not have been the best idea to fly from no elevation to elevation and immediately go on a hike like this. Oh, well. It actually wasn't that bad.</div>
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The 2 miles of road leading to the trailhead was bad. Scary, insanely rough, bad. My friend had a 4 wheel drive and it was still scary. To give you an idea of how bad it was, it took 20 minutes to drive 2 miles! The road was rocky, with big boulders sticking up and huge potholes to navigate. Once at the trailhead, though, I knew I would have a great time hiking!</div>
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The hike was about 8 miles round trip with about a 3,500 ft elevation gain and we made plenty of friends along the way...</div>
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About 2 miles in, I started getting queasy. One summer when I was in college, I worked in Colorado, taking horse back rides through Rocky Mountain National Park. It was an amazing experience. I fell in love with the area immediately. Anyway, during that time, I became familiar with recognizing altitude sickness and remedying it before it got too bad. When I started getting queasy on the hike, I knew I need to eat something. Then, boom, I was fine. I drank a ton of water, so never really had much issue in that department.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Grays to the left and Torreys to the right</td></tr>
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This part of the hike had the only bushes on the trail. If nature called, you either had to find a bush or big rock to hide behind. Basically, if you had to go badly enough, you had to put your inhibitions aside and just go. People were going to see you. They were going to know what you were doing, but c'est la vie. When you gotta go, you gotta go.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">trekking up the side of Grays Peak</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKV7W2AvJmAb2zQB8mZmarhrw8dRjcx0Ui2egpCeSSEbVuTsZXHqp922XJpuu0hErSIaIMddAeidQ4G9uoK-WWQdbK17LqI_3jxaYqG2sgD28e4eAhfbqS82EbUKxI-SWdpetTEcpcBkK/s1600/goats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKV7W2AvJmAb2zQB8mZmarhrw8dRjcx0Ui2egpCeSSEbVuTsZXHqp922XJpuu0hErSIaIMddAeidQ4G9uoK-WWQdbK17LqI_3jxaYqG2sgD28e4eAhfbqS82EbUKxI-SWdpetTEcpcBkK/s640/goats.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain Goats!!</td></tr>
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Around this part of the hike, we had climbed to about 13,000ft elevation. At least that's what someone's GPS read...anyway, it was shortly thereafter that the climbs got much more steep. After a super steep stretch, I would find myself getting a little light headed. Not bad, but just enough to stop, have some water and let myself adjust for a minute. I didn't mind...it was the perfect opportunity to enjoy the majestic scenery!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKE-9YTGWPhtLSnWtxUZQfipSP3N20eETCDCdDpLG6hAW6t19T9X0ftddumCTXkkcsxb-qoZ_vWstfIexjAZ4U-sh1ldv-P6LVWQG0c_Ksy0ywY_eujFYhSmfCn1tobjGySaaw9PbTZsX/s1600/upside+down.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKE-9YTGWPhtLSnWtxUZQfipSP3N20eETCDCdDpLG6hAW6t19T9X0ftddumCTXkkcsxb-qoZ_vWstfIexjAZ4U-sh1ldv-P6LVWQG0c_Ksy0ywY_eujFYhSmfCn1tobjGySaaw9PbTZsX/s640/upside+down.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost there and still all smiles!</td></tr>
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Made it to the top! It was hot the day we hiked, so I was in my sleeveless top at the summit. After lunch though, it got a little cloudy, so I put my fleece and gloves on...basically, almost all of the clothes I brought!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGDi0WJWxG3AdqX4Q0bId8Ok3C6eCQZdRmIdEl0dytElV4OV4ajmZIjc-rBUWCRKh5ehc-w2nuHFA9SdH30xoX5BFIt757Ga-RQkKU0X18oCHL7xffc08AbAVoE4XvS10G8OkCOMW1CJH/s1600/grays+no+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="709" data-original-width="996" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGDi0WJWxG3AdqX4Q0bId8Ok3C6eCQZdRmIdEl0dytElV4OV4ajmZIjc-rBUWCRKh5ehc-w2nuHFA9SdH30xoX5BFIt757Ga-RQkKU0X18oCHL7xffc08AbAVoE4XvS10G8OkCOMW1CJH/s640/grays+no+sign.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Made it!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDR1A1X6eca3YtTYRyCmT1YK9WAfdSywmIl3PJw0jm6p8lRUNpppOLvF68QmVlY1k6f1OOT7H61CZ1S3ihrfYK8NgDs9JV7gUpbsgWL97SZA6kRpJiu9qR__HiwCCvUbBmSGy4D3NX-jr/s1600/Grays+with+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1002" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDR1A1X6eca3YtTYRyCmT1YK9WAfdSywmIl3PJw0jm6p8lRUNpppOLvF68QmVlY1k6f1OOT7H61CZ1S3ihrfYK8NgDs9JV7gUpbsgWL97SZA6kRpJiu9qR__HiwCCvUbBmSGy4D3NX-jr/s640/Grays+with+sign.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the sign, to make it official. It's not official without the sign! :-)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7WyFYU8qsyiaqVyOtBvCzQQjusNat3Dm8GzjzpkeZFaWTFlEa-UKiDg0qqJX6uwcXF7pOJc85mJOTnePH4S-1FiVmQUF9J05BITixBMWbNp2aO4g05fDlEdkEicLadsetOVM5UFJGwZW/s1600/Another+view+from+the+top+of+grays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7WyFYU8qsyiaqVyOtBvCzQQjusNat3Dm8GzjzpkeZFaWTFlEa-UKiDg0qqJX6uwcXF7pOJc85mJOTnePH4S-1FiVmQUF9J05BITixBMWbNp2aO4g05fDlEdkEicLadsetOVM5UFJGwZW/s640/Another+view+from+the+top+of+grays.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view from the back side of Grays Peak</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8XUlP-YUTNEzumwg5d2ygu0oPRJUWghBQeY_unoC74cEkQU9toUs8ekDCQ4HQ3RdDTH1PTSdszpx7Gx12_LPtxvA4U_FVzMK3SeYVtRc5VukQ3F7eMumiudPe93V2opirawtd7NptEIl/s1600/torreys+from+grays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8XUlP-YUTNEzumwg5d2ygu0oPRJUWghBQeY_unoC74cEkQU9toUs8ekDCQ4HQ3RdDTH1PTSdszpx7Gx12_LPtxvA4U_FVzMK3SeYVtRc5VukQ3F7eMumiudPe93V2opirawtd7NptEIl/s640/torreys+from+grays.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Torreys Peak from the top of Grays</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCyc3Xz05MkWW6OSZdMcBzS_SI4G6WdtkaGwU9nI3PDmVL2PJwmpUJBa8owMqF5prY7vuLoC5hFdbQ0uGMc-MWbUo_BPkSXM6xBuypz66qza7z-FNJJ_4SDrTV4oL7ACYtnVyzGmQq_0bI/s1600/view+from+the+top+of+grays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCyc3Xz05MkWW6OSZdMcBzS_SI4G6WdtkaGwU9nI3PDmVL2PJwmpUJBa8owMqF5prY7vuLoC5hFdbQ0uGMc-MWbUo_BPkSXM6xBuypz66qza7z-FNJJ_4SDrTV4oL7ACYtnVyzGmQq_0bI/s640/view+from+the+top+of+grays.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the front side atop Grays Peak</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HNuiw0GFcePY-arc-gkoL08dpXxd0AcZ3eZItAjQVqtwY7_i7nzERPnuijutYtrGWNHTDEWsWvH046Cqoer0Dxpu79g3SnWuPJxf7JZcA9NuuTHIjXEMfxpnvJf-Z7QNrEyYkVgm2tHB/s1600/backside+of+grays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HNuiw0GFcePY-arc-gkoL08dpXxd0AcZ3eZItAjQVqtwY7_i7nzERPnuijutYtrGWNHTDEWsWvH046Cqoer0Dxpu79g3SnWuPJxf7JZcA9NuuTHIjXEMfxpnvJf-Z7QNrEyYkVgm2tHB/s640/backside+of+grays.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last view from the Grays Peak Summit, before heading back down</td></tr>
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It took us about 8 hours, round trip, but to me, it didn't seem that long at all. We took our time going up - about 4 1/2 hours. At the summit, we had lunch, enjoyed the views and took pictures - there were SO many people climbing that day that we had to wait for people to clear out a bit, in order to get good views from all sides. So, we probably stayed at the summit for about an hour. Some people do Grays and Torreys in the same day, which is really doable. It's right there, as you can see...it makes sense to knock out two 14ers in one big hike, but we weren't trying to be heroes! </div>
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The hike was tough, but it really wasn't as tough as I thought it would be. I enjoyed every minute of it and absolutely can't wait to tackle another 14er. I'm so awed by what my body and mind can accomplish and am endlessly thankful that I have adventurous friends who are willing to accept these challenging journeys with me!! I've said it a million times and I'll say it again...I'm such a lucky girl!!</div>
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<br />Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-62682871648937133242018-08-03T10:10:00.000-05:002018-08-08T05:56:01.406-05:002018, So FarIt's been a fun filled year, so far. A lot has happened. Here's the condensed version of my mid-year review:<br />
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I spent time with family who visited & enjoyed the sunshine:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfbn-AKRCwHWngti7l70biBsGiAzcN-j-h8sPepB5VUz3g61sOHXTmcbmZWwiSGESw4AYzpkwUW3Samc0IYu70xFsTn-fBtAfYZHr7B_sX77JYV7FpHukXMhdxkoqyyto0eaksnTiRQi1/s1600/fam+getaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfbn-AKRCwHWngti7l70biBsGiAzcN-j-h8sPepB5VUz3g61sOHXTmcbmZWwiSGESw4AYzpkwUW3Samc0IYu70xFsTn-fBtAfYZHr7B_sX77JYV7FpHukXMhdxkoqyyto0eaksnTiRQi1/s400/fam+getaway.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Went on long bike rides with nice, shady trees and met new friends:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3aX65bnL5FnI50J60nyQgg2G7_g9zymKOh4sGV5g3LQIMUveJ_PTwyv1c_sWYiLgpQRiwkA7qs69GI7lpbO-ShTr6V3mIDHwuViwASktBBYdTLMLI7168gUOgm9HWTY3rsUC8g5vDBDC6/s1600/bike+ride2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3aX65bnL5FnI50J60nyQgg2G7_g9zymKOh4sGV5g3LQIMUveJ_PTwyv1c_sWYiLgpQRiwkA7qs69GI7lpbO-ShTr6V3mIDHwuViwASktBBYdTLMLI7168gUOgm9HWTY3rsUC8g5vDBDC6/s400/bike+ride2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsOdNfMiZOLInhtf3s9W5o4YY_MVKozr8ENWkKTHAduQB1He-X5B2qyEBgRZN1WbJhKv100dZggaoiDlyz3kO5PufyfRsOXhjefx6QagSCqYO4zBncGY7Bvpt-6vciLQ37VcbELwSLiMX/s1600/bike+ride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsOdNfMiZOLInhtf3s9W5o4YY_MVKozr8ENWkKTHAduQB1He-X5B2qyEBgRZN1WbJhKv100dZggaoiDlyz3kO5PufyfRsOXhjefx6QagSCqYO4zBncGY7Bvpt-6vciLQ37VcbELwSLiMX/s400/bike+ride.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7z-jI2H9Acs0x-qxlgeVEGlN-LJ6i3Nf4ORocEIFAyOpGZAXqMIcfzTOoeRnMvxuWT798yjZBrK_N8uX2ylGoOLnJnHafG43gZWKx6de18ahWYkdJlEnvVJ0B28olDa2n2WvB0cMkj5F/s1600/bike+friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7z-jI2H9Acs0x-qxlgeVEGlN-LJ6i3Nf4ORocEIFAyOpGZAXqMIcfzTOoeRnMvxuWT798yjZBrK_N8uX2ylGoOLnJnHafG43gZWKx6de18ahWYkdJlEnvVJ0B28olDa2n2WvB0cMkj5F/s400/bike+friends.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Traveled to Memphis to work and enjoyed the view, while there:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5bFUijFaz79peonHK1IigDklsw6bjVKPEa0fnS0n0rUvgReVAmWXrsUQmAscXeJu6cBtbh3FJPFW8mHmnstFtUKZQNUEga3sYft7_TizfaaoMCZZskLhq2PjJMs9DMiuHsXLFzVQVHSQr/s1600/memphis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5bFUijFaz79peonHK1IigDklsw6bjVKPEa0fnS0n0rUvgReVAmWXrsUQmAscXeJu6cBtbh3FJPFW8mHmnstFtUKZQNUEga3sYft7_TizfaaoMCZZskLhq2PjJMs9DMiuHsXLFzVQVHSQr/s400/memphis.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Bought a new house and changed a faucet all by myself - well, with help from youtube:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8iV_eDQSKo2G29yRNCCDM23neq0HbZy6VVPh4Qdar4nbS_ZSidnWIXCX0lk9mNGE8j5wVil-9B0kNThSgzKInegKHcajRRApdEquDeRCTlioGC_OmnGUVBim5FP7mzIJzDZxx2Ctht7t/s1600/new+house+keys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8iV_eDQSKo2G29yRNCCDM23neq0HbZy6VVPh4Qdar4nbS_ZSidnWIXCX0lk9mNGE8j5wVil-9B0kNThSgzKInegKHcajRRApdEquDeRCTlioGC_OmnGUVBim5FP7mzIJzDZxx2Ctht7t/s400/new+house+keys.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Before (grody to the max!):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLna64O_HIzf1lSMgCBPb0mbE6VBfkn16lerG2UIFEMgehm5u338nwkn41m4p_IFirUALsNbqiCTLB-_NNM6lFNFmSCsp350qfO6H2YpQoGeShNC_rNDHle2hv6P0P43OwHeWglKK0AXPs/s1600/faucet+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLna64O_HIzf1lSMgCBPb0mbE6VBfkn16lerG2UIFEMgehm5u338nwkn41m4p_IFirUALsNbqiCTLB-_NNM6lFNFmSCsp350qfO6H2YpQoGeShNC_rNDHle2hv6P0P43OwHeWglKK0AXPs/s400/faucet+before.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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After (don't worry, I also changed the drain, too!):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_b593c0xgn0OnTKMbNIMCtYp9MPzIno2REJxEcfDEyWnV5wSLGGUhm-ImY7fAoEj2Bb12Q3UCTiw47Sq1Qytf9uC8Z8RZHwcoa4z0TV13XDnPxCTvglVjhMI16b-HtaP4E2dh3h4tpF_/s1600/faucet+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_b593c0xgn0OnTKMbNIMCtYp9MPzIno2REJxEcfDEyWnV5wSLGGUhm-ImY7fAoEj2Bb12Q3UCTiw47Sq1Qytf9uC8Z8RZHwcoa4z0TV13XDnPxCTvglVjhMI16b-HtaP4E2dh3h4tpF_/s400/faucet+after.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Logged a lot of time at the beach:<br />
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And a lot of time on my paddle board:<br />
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Watched the sunrise and sunset:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjP1tytCxUUb9yOQ64TSSobwfjJ-UhMwVvIbfJmK3jZ9Jdafs94gpnIAyAlSDwhNWGB1GJ30Y2jf7dctBWM_to3Ttvrho6DhscMNWL-nr1gnZr-ut8LTUMZawihx7T2c2fsC6Vdm6nvXz8/s1600/sunset.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="709" data-original-width="528" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjP1tytCxUUb9yOQ64TSSobwfjJ-UhMwVvIbfJmK3jZ9Jdafs94gpnIAyAlSDwhNWGB1GJ30Y2jf7dctBWM_to3Ttvrho6DhscMNWL-nr1gnZr-ut8LTUMZawihx7T2c2fsC6Vdm6nvXz8/s640/sunset.png" width="475" /></a></div>
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Found time to run for coffee & spend Q.T. with friends:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friday night Shuffleboard - not just for old people, anymore!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excited to see Lynne Koplitz - one of my fav-o-rites!!</td></tr>
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And saw these two gems that made me giggle inside:</div>
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I hope you're enjoying your 2018, so far, too!!<br />
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<br />Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-84336986930393000402018-07-26T11:11:00.000-05:002020-04-01T18:33:06.981-05:00Enjoy the Silence - Yeah, RightHappy summer, friends! As per usual, it's been a while. A lot has happened in my world and I have the pictures to prove it, which I will get to, eventually...for now, I want to have a chat with you about an old friend from my childhood. Mister Rogers. That's right, Mister Rogers. Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably heard about the movie in theaters right now, "Won't You Be My Neighbor." Well, when I heard about it, I thought, "I LOOOVED Mister Rogers as a kid. What was it about his show that made me like him so much?" So, I consulted with the google-machine, like many of us do, and found videos on youtube, in a flash. <br />
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<em>Sidenote and funny story: I dated a guy once and somehow we got on the subject of how much we liked Mister Rogers as kids. If it had been a competition, he would have won with this story. He had a record player in the corner of his room and he was listening to a Mister Rogers record. He must have been around 4ish? His mom walked in on him and he was peeing on the record player. His mom said, "What are you doing?" He proudly responded, "I'm showing Mister Rogers that I can pee like a big boy!" I'm pretty sure I cried from laughter when he told me that story.</em></div>
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Ok, back to my story...I watched an episode of Mister Rogers Neighborhood and quickly remembered why I liked him. He looked directly into the camera and established a level of intimacy with the viewer. He asked me, the viewer, questions. I remember as a kid answering him. "I'm going to color with crayons today. Do you like coloring with crayons?" "YES, Mister Rogers, I do!" Anyway, at the end of the episode he said, "I like you just the way you are. There's no one else in the world like you and that's what makes you special." My eyes aren't watering, yours are! Yes, that's one of the many reasons I loved watching Mister Rogers as a kid. He had such a warm, calm, inviting demeanor...it felt so safe.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/rLhwOC1kzu8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rLhwOC1kzu8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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It's easy to go down the "youtube black hole" isn't it? One minute you're watching videos on ways to style a scarf, then the next minute you're watching a video of how to build a villa off the coast of Greece with road gutter scraps. Not that that has ever happened to me or anything. Anyway, I stumbled upon an old Charlie Rose interview from the early/mid-'90's. Mister Rogers was talking about how we're inundated with information and crave more. "How do we, as people who work in media, encourage people to value silence?" That was before everyone had a smartphone (facebook, twitter, instagram, snapchat, etc.), tablet, laptop and multiple monitors...can you imagine what he would think of our information overload, today? After thinking about it, he was quite right. Often times, I reach for my phone out of sheer boredom. Is it so horrible to be quiet and alone with thoughts? Or not even thoughts, just surroundings?<br />
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Yesterday, I put my phone away, turned off my radio and told myself I would sit through every red light on my commute home, without looking at my phone or calling a friend to catch up and help pass the time. I'm a multi-tasker, see. I won't die if I actually sit through a light with no other distraction, will I? It was hard. At the first red light, my hand - on autopilot - dug into my bag and grabbed my phone. It was halfway out of my bag before my brain registered and said, "halt, you! Put the phone away!" Uggh, what to do with all of that time just sitting there, waiting!! I managed to get through the first red light. Shockingly, I noticed businesses along my normal commute that I had never noticed before. Then it happened. Out. Of. Nowhere. An earworm...<br />
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"What would you DoOOOoo foooorrrrr a Klondike bar?" What? Where did that come from? Oh lawd, make it stop! <br />
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That evening, when I arrived home, I never took my phone out of my bag. I thought, wow, I haven't looked at it in hours (sorry, friends and family members who I didn't get back to until this morning). I wouldn't say it's a first because I'm not shackled to my phone to the extent that I see other people, but I'm much more reliant than I would like to be. I mean, how can you be "present" if you can't sit for 5 minutes without needing electronic stimulation??<br />
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P.S. I did go to the theater and watch "Won't You Be My Neighbor." I cried. A lot. As soon as my eyes dried, something else would happen to start the water works again. I looked around and noticed others wiping tears from their eyes, too. <br />
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The movie was remarkable. It will tug at your heartstrings. It will make you leave, wanting to be a better person. The kind of person Mister Rogers knew you could be when he talked to you from the other side of the t.v. screen so many years ago.Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-66619221677781745442018-01-24T10:00:00.000-06:002018-01-24T10:00:23.365-06:00Tweet Others As You Would Like to Be TweetedThis weekend was filled to the brim, but not with coffee. I'm on another "dial down the caffeine" (like, a million notches) kick. I love coffee. I can hear you and yes, I love it so much I would marry it. However, I know that consuming copious amounts of caffeine on the daily, has many negative benefits. One that my stubborn nature gets tired of tolerating is, addiction. Yep, that's right, I get a killer migraine and am achy all over if I don't have my morning fix. After a day or two of suffering, I'm right as rain, again...and shockingly, I have plenty of energy. What's that all about?<br />
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Anyway, back to the weekend. It started off with some much needed exercise. Hooray for warmer Flo-rida weather! Then, I was off to volunteer orientation at one of my favorite nature preserves. I'm one step closer to checking off the "volunteer my time" goal, listed in my last post. <br />
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Sunday, I stumbled upon a huge group of people. All of the vibrant colors, especially hot pink, that they were wearing caught my eye, so I decided to investigate further. They were all walking with such purpose & I needed some exercise, so I thought, what the heck? I'm kidding of course. I was meeting people downtown to check out the anniversary of the women's march festivities. In the online information, there was nothing about an actual march, so I sorta did stumble upon it and...oh my gosh, some of the chants were hysterical. "We want a leader, not a creepy tweeter" was one of my favorites. While, it's not my nature to talk politics with strangers and I'm more adamant about not talking politics with friends (because...story about my dad #33 - if you're curious, I'll tell it to you), I will admit...reading Trump's tweets or listening to him speak is the equivalent of hearing G Dub say, "nuc-u-lar" or talking about how gynecologists need to be "allowed to practice their love of women." Do you remember that? So many "face-palm" moments. I mean, I see Trump's face and his mouth is moving, but all I hear is "nuc-u-lar." </div>
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The march and gathering afterward was all very positive. There weren't any people protesting the march, either. While I do get the gravitas of the situation (but I wanna keep things light-hearted, here), there were so many funny signs. Every two seconds someone was laughing and pointing, "look at that one!" From, "there will be hell toupee" (I just giggled typing that) to this:</div>
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I'd vote for her...</div>
Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-87627250795342388732018-01-12T18:00:00.000-06:002018-01-14T20:01:01.971-06:00Looking Back on 2017Wow, what a year 2017 was. I've been known to say that odd numbered years are better for me. This odd numbered year was different. It was wonderful and not so great at the same time. I've named it the bipolar year. The bad: Family drama, family members passing away, late night trip to the ER (my leg swelled so much that I thought I had a blood clot...turned out to be a bug bite. Whew!) and hurricane Irma to name a few. Many people experienced much worse than I, so I really can't complain. It was quite a roller coaster ride, nonetheless.<br />
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Now, on to the good:<br />
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I went sailing & snorkeling in the Bahamas (and put a check mark beside my, "let's get out of this country once a year, goal.") I had never seen such beautiful water. It changed from deep sapphire to crystal blue:<br />
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Celebrated warmer weather with my closest friends:<br />
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Watched many beautiful sunrises:<br />
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Even caught the occasional, gorgeous sunset:<br />
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Went hiking with friends...a lot:<br />
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Played, "where's Martie?<br />
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I even found the end of the trail, along the way.<br />
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Kayaked some:<br />
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Made sure to obey street signs. It's the law, after all:<br />
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Didn't walk, but went running in Memphis:<br />
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Had a business trip to NYC and spent the weekend to play:<br />
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Out of respect, I "Andy Warhol'ed" myself.</div>
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And became a Skimm'bassador!<br />
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At the beginning of the year, I set a goal to travel more. By November, I thought, "I'm good, I want to stay home for a bit." I've been at home for almost 3 months now, and am itching for a trip. Oy vey! Who wants to meet me in Savannah or Peru to hike the Inca Trail??<br />
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All in all, it was a good year and I'm excited to see what 2018 has in store. I've set some goals for myself in 2018:<br />
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Give back to my community by volunteering my time<br />
Travel!<br />
Go snorkeling at Egmont Key<br />
Read one book per month<br />
Hike a 14er with friends<br />
Gratitude Jar!<br />
Kayak more<br />
Always find time to play!<br />
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What are your goals or resolutions for the year?Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-79265561630898314662017-05-19T10:54:00.001-05:002017-05-19T10:54:50.148-05:00Month In ReviewEver since moving, I feel like I've been in a whirlwind. Life has been so busy, but in a good way...pool parties and cookouts, beach time, beach 5k's, hikes...so much to do, so little time. The result is that I still have boxes in my guest room to unpack, but I'm not in a hurry. I'm having too much fun!<br />
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I hosted a pool, paint and pizza party at my new place. Painting and hiding rocks is so much more fun than I thought. There's something about getting the creative juices flowing that is really fulfilling and relaxing at the same time. Couple that with potentially making a stranger's day and that's a lot of positivity, right? I realize that these aren't good, but who cares. :-) It was a great excuse to get together with friends, drink sangria and log some pool time.<br />
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Then, two of my besties made a visit. First we toasted our blueberry margaritas & prepared for a fun filled weekend!</div>
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We had plenty of time by the pool: </div>
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Logged some substantial beach time:</div>
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Went to a brewery at the beach for the release of new margarita beer, Island Lime. I have a gluten allergy, so I had sangria, but encouraged my friends to try the special beer. It smelled like nair. I'm told that it tastes a lot like you would imagine nair to taste. No bueno.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJ86UlTqy9cQVcT6HyP4mejt0J6QbqMLsK0JKQPkW9D-KkPGZgEc1f2STlvcSUp4KoAfgY7SXz8G8EuSHh2HAiZwMaE76ZHZ-nv-8otuVFwInU9g-lViVTG82rh0olq8sM3Ku2-YmlHlv/s1600/Brewery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJ86UlTqy9cQVcT6HyP4mejt0J6QbqMLsK0JKQPkW9D-KkPGZgEc1f2STlvcSUp4KoAfgY7SXz8G8EuSHh2HAiZwMaE76ZHZ-nv-8otuVFwInU9g-lViVTG82rh0olq8sM3Ku2-YmlHlv/s400/Brewery.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And we made time for silliness on the way to dinner.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCN5erE3SdQ1v3cQ7b76kSjASI26vHJGqNvNeb_s_KN_pvXLUC2_TUQMDw5NluOLQB5pShRzFjgaobO0yotvWI93zDOYV8WSMdoXKVr2RjramIw6Zl7JgrLD7mEBzZ7SWLi91FDe1_vHJ/s1600/Being+Silly.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCN5erE3SdQ1v3cQ7b76kSjASI26vHJGqNvNeb_s_KN_pvXLUC2_TUQMDw5NluOLQB5pShRzFjgaobO0yotvWI93zDOYV8WSMdoXKVr2RjramIw6Zl7JgrLD7mEBzZ7SWLi91FDe1_vHJ/s640/Being+Silly.png" width="358" /></a></div>
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It was a great weekend and wonderful to spend time with such close friends who (sadly) I rarely get to see!</div>
<br />Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-83941603991893929922017-04-24T12:30:00.000-05:002017-04-25T11:00:35.599-05:00Daily SmilesSeveral years ago, I started seeing "901 Rocks" all over social media. People colorfully & creatively painted rocks and hid them all over the City of Memphis (901 area code) and I loved the concept. Recently, the trend has made it to St. Petersburg. I've been seeing "St. Pete Rocks" popping up more frequently. There was even a rock painting party at a local art studio. I couldn't make it but a friend of mine and I made plans to make our own...which we did, yesterday afternoon. <br />
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In the morning, while jogging, I found this little nugget:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKg1OcTBPtJktgiOtjfoF40FqJ7gF8ymbt7YHlFV8FYfzdTzoYysyvc-ksFUmIQzMXa6yu4i78m26gcuRZZe6pWVdp-uClIMXh8QnjwxHlhHpCUBghkc8FG_1iAOZIR_SmIGkh7KzNuAC/s1600/Bumble+Bee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKg1OcTBPtJktgiOtjfoF40FqJ7gF8ymbt7YHlFV8FYfzdTzoYysyvc-ksFUmIQzMXa6yu4i78m26gcuRZZe6pWVdp-uClIMXh8QnjwxHlhHpCUBghkc8FG_1iAOZIR_SmIGkh7KzNuAC/s320/Bumble+Bee.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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How can you look at that little face and not smile?!<br />
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Painting the rocks was much more fun and relaxing than I thought it would be. Here are some of our masterpieces. Ok, so it might look like a child painted these. It can be our secret that they weren't painted by 10 year olds, ok? Cool!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggr2t3vyPDMN9s03n1B8aFVYMBqg9XvlXqBoXfsUnHBEnTecAvJIshX1bZiMuRMmy9p5El_pAgyjuNGRQraNTIQxf5n6pu-j-8tKEWMPlRpKD3q6lPR5kf8P3VtZw6MnXaf4VhjIJgaQ69/s1600/st+pete+rocks.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggr2t3vyPDMN9s03n1B8aFVYMBqg9XvlXqBoXfsUnHBEnTecAvJIshX1bZiMuRMmy9p5El_pAgyjuNGRQraNTIQxf5n6pu-j-8tKEWMPlRpKD3q6lPR5kf8P3VtZw6MnXaf4VhjIJgaQ69/s320/st+pete+rocks.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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After we painted our rocks we hid them...mostly in a nearby park. What a great time! I think there will be some painting parties in my future. :-)<br />
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Here's another smile from this weekend. Fresh flowers..my favorite, gerbera daisies scattered all over instantly raise my mood!<br />
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Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-55278005495322224792017-04-03T12:00:00.000-05:002017-04-03T12:00:19.666-05:00The New PadToday, I returned the keys to my old place. It was really sad, I loved the location and the eclectic nature of the building as a whole, but it was time to move on. I wouldn't say that I LOVE my new place, but it definitely has it's perks. Driving time out of my neighborhood, especially if I find myself stuck behind a garbage truck or "grandpa", isn't one of them. One perk is that it's so very quiet. When I'm inside, I can't hear my neighbors at all...something that is very different for me. At the old place, I could practically hear my neighbors breathe. The grounds...that's undeniably the best part of my new place. <br />
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The complex backs up to the water and there's a wide walkway around the perimeter with benches, cooking grills, hammocks and docks. If you follow me on social media, you've likely seen most of these gems, but here they are again!<br />
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The Brady Brat loves her view...so many birds, so little time.</div>
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Dolphins!! Ok, that picture only shows one, but I promise, there were more.<br />
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My new morning ritual involves drinking my morning coffee on the dock. Sometimes, I see fish...wonder if these are delicious. If I fished, I'd have it made!<br />
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Lately, I've been seeing sting rays. It must be the start of "sting ray season."</div>
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Not too shabby, eh? I certainly can't complain. Even if my closets are minuscule, look at this view! It's totally worth it!</div>
Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-76078224516748285652017-03-30T09:00:00.000-05:002017-04-06T14:53:23.677-05:00Weekend Fun: Seafood, Music and Soccer, Oh My!Now is the time I feel lucky to live in Florida (although, not when I turn on the news...people in FL are cuckoo). The weather is amazing...beautiful, sunny days that aren't too hot but not too chilly, either. <br />
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This past weekend some of my friends and I went to the Seafood and Music Festival that was practically in my backyard. It was such a great time!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSq3RQMkFGR_V6NA6vbggJD6LPi8yfeDZo8TkXZQYCgVb7zo5f9AeV6xB-Spyq4q71iDO-1j8NV4N0UHiFbzWJWK6SxTCBbbUwxaWAJwhfBCCZE3jGkcH30L_OBLsZKl8k-EFAhpdaajg/s1600/weekend+seafood+fest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSq3RQMkFGR_V6NA6vbggJD6LPi8yfeDZo8TkXZQYCgVb7zo5f9AeV6xB-Spyq4q71iDO-1j8NV4N0UHiFbzWJWK6SxTCBbbUwxaWAJwhfBCCZE3jGkcH30L_OBLsZKl8k-EFAhpdaajg/s400/weekend+seafood+fest.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A little kid, maybe 5yrs old, started the Bob Marley song, "One Love," acapella and it was so cute, I thought my head was going to spin right off and explode. Then, he proceeded to sit at the front of the stage and play a bongo drum, LIKE A FREAKIN' BOSS! The picture doesn't show him, but just trust me...the cuteness was completely overwhelming. <br />
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Then, as if I didn't already have enough fun for one human in a day, I went to the season opening game for the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Not only was it the season opening game, but it was the first game in their new conference. The stadium was as packed as I've ever seen it and just as fun as every other game I've attended. It helped that the Rowdies won, too!! <br />
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I'm a lucky chic...I realize...<br />
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<br />Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-2610711659506919612017-03-28T12:33:00.001-05:002017-04-04T11:56:42.180-05:00De-Cluttering<br />
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It's been a while & much has happened. I've experienced some significant transitions, recently. The most significant is that I moved from the first place I ever lived in FL. I only moved about 3 miles (stay tuned for pictures from the new place 😊) but it was still oddly emotional. I was extremely confused & taken aback by the emotion. I've lived in different States before, moved a ton, but never had this sort of reaction when moving. It was super weird.<br />
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Over the past few years, I've wanted to rid myself of "stuff." In every room, I have so much that I don't use or need...but I tell myself, I *might* use it one day. Well, I have a job, if I need it one day, I can go and buy it; it'll probably be a better model or product by then, anyway! So, I've been slowly de-cluttering for a while, but REALLY got brutal about tossing/donating/selling things when I began packing to move. Now, as I unpack, I gave myself a goal: toss/donate/sell 2-5 items from each box I unpack. So far, I'm exceeding that goal and it feels pretty sweet...not gonna lie. <br />
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Today, as I ran across this information about donating clothing. <br />
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<a href="http://www.purewow.com/fashion/clothing-stores-that-recycle-donations">http://www.purewow.com/fashion/clothing-stores-that-recycle-donations</a><br />
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Did you know that retail stores will take your donations & reward you? H&M gives you 15% off! Levis will give a $5 to the Salvation Army and there are others, too. How amazing is that? You can rid your life of clutter, get perks and potentially, help others? That sounds like a solid win/win to me kiddos!!<br />
<br />Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-42102650446053961362016-07-27T09:08:00.002-05:002016-07-27T09:11:20.562-05:00See This: Hunt for the WilderpeopleIt's been a while, I know. Soon, I'll definitely take the time to catch everyone up on the last year - Cuba, swimming with dolphins, trip home, hiking in GA, shark tooth excursion...so much to tell, so little time. In due time...in due time.<br />
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Last night was $5 movie night at my local theater. It was essentially a "school night," because of work. So, I wanted to find a movie time that was late enough for me to make it from work but early enough so that I wasn't getting home after 10pm (princess needs her 8hrs or heads. will. roll. and that's not a pretty look). The only thing that worked was this indie flick I had never heard about. I read the description and it piqued my interest. It also had really high review ratings. So, for $5, I saw this movie and it was easily the best movie I've seen in a long time. It was hilarious, well developed - the script was so amazingly written, sad and heart warming all at the same time. I can't wait to see it again...and I might even pay full price to do so!! My advice? Go see it, immediately and you can thank me later.<br />
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<br />Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-12725476539198751262015-01-28T07:00:00.000-06:002015-08-03T20:14:16.263-05:00Vent SessionAfter a conversation about pet peeves, I've gotten myself a little riled up...there are several things that I think have gotten too big for their britches, so to speak.<br />
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<strong><u>Exhibit A:</u></strong> Bacon! (I've felt this way for years...YEARS.) I likely won't have many people agree with me, but the bacon thing has gone too far. Traditionally, a breakfast food, sometimes coupled with other goodies on a sandwich at lunch, rapped around shrimp or a beef filet (YUM), bacon has "known its place." When I was at a party and a guy emphatically told me how I just HAD to try bacon vodka, it was the last straw. NO! Don't put meat in my alcohol. EVER.<br />
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<strong><u>Exhibit B:</u></strong> "Craft" beer. Don't get me wrong, I love beer. A lot. These days, it seems like everyone is classifying all local brews as craft beer. While most may be - especially with the amount of smaller establishments popping up all over the place - not all breweries produce what's classified as craft beer. Microbrewery vs. Craft Breweries. That's what I'm talking about. <a href="http://cabmgmnt.hubpages.com/hub/The-Difference-Between-a-Craft-Beer-and-a-Micro-Brew-Beer">Here's</a> a great post about the difference between the two.<br />
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<strong><u>Exhibit C:</u></strong> This: Ok, this might <em>not</em> have gotten too big for its britches, yet...but I get the sneaking feeling that it is well on its way.<br />
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I get it. Sweat pants and pants with elasticized ankles are making a comeback. They can be loungy, dressier casual and some are even dressy. I know! It's like Christie Brinkley, circa 1981 all over again! Not that I remember or anything. I've just seen pictures...in my history books. Yeah, that's it. <br />
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Can we please make a deal? If you are wearing sweat pants that make you look like you're getting off the bench at a basketball game or like you should be doing yoga, how about you NOT wear heels. Okay?? Thanks!! Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-42221661129680638012014-11-07T14:45:00.000-06:002015-01-27T14:47:12.231-06:00Post Paris Year In Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm simply delinquent in posting these days. The rest of my Paris trip was as incredible as the first few days. Here's a quick recap of happened after Paris, to catch you up. :-) </div>
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In October, I went back home to ride the annual Memphis Hightailer's Bluff City Blues ride. I haven't missed the ride since I started cycling. Since, I live in the land of flat roads and wind, I was unsure how my legs would respond to the hills. I wasn't as fast as the prior year, but that was ok. It was quite possibly the most enjoyable BCB, thus far. Miles and miles of socializin with the best friends a girl could have!!</div>
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Then, one of my best friends from those crazy college days came to my 'hood. She kind of kicked off the rash of winter visitors. Not that I'm complaining :-) Such fun catching up with her and her hubby. </div>
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I went to Key West and visited Hemmingway's home:<br />
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Drank too much rum:<br />
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Saw a sign that seemed to state the obvious:<br />
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And watched sailboats go by:<br />
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I had more rum and went to a painting "class." This is what I was supposed to paint:<br />
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Since, I don't like to do what I'm told, this is what I decided to paint.<br />
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<br />Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-89325492847892031712014-04-29T20:58:00.000-05:002014-04-29T21:01:29.004-05:00More Paris!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My friend from Switzerland wanted to go to the Tamara de Lempicka exhibit at the Pinacotheque. I was not familiar with her work, but was game. She's a modern artist who was friends with some of the Hollywood elite in the 20's & 30's, including Dali. The exhibit was quite interesting & I liked that it was "off the beaten tourist path." </div>
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We also went to one of the places on my "list." Galeries Lafayette. It's a gorgeous department store/mall designed in the style of an old, grand opera house. </div>
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This is Au Printemps, one of Galeries Lafayette's competition. It was pretty grand, too.</div>
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Here's the ceiling of the entryway to Galeries Lafayette! Un-freakin-believable!<br />
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View from the Chanel store. Heaven!<br />
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Another cool thing about Galeries Lafayette is that they have a roof where you can grab a bite, drink or just relax and check out the view. Here's a shot of the street below from the roof.<br />
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Paris selfie - don't judge. Sometimes you do what you have to do. This picture cracks me up; evidently, someone didn't want their picture taken!<br />
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Later we went to grab a bite in the Bastille area. This famous guy, Matt something or other, was having dinner there, too. If you watch Breaking Bad (which I don't), you'll recognize him. My friend's friend's friend (got it? Fantastic, let's continue) was a HUGE fan. I asked him to send me the picture of he and Matt so I could show my friends in the States who watch the show. </div>
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Always thinking, I decided that I needed proof that I didn't just grab a picture of the web and tell a tall tale of eating with famous people in Paris. So, here's proof that I knew the guy in the picture with Matt! </div>
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I don't recall the name of the restaurant, but do recall that my Swiss friend's Parisian friend ordered Rose and I discovered that I heart Rose...a lot. We had a delicious, entertaining dinner and plenty of wine. Pretty sure I was asleep before my head hit the pillow that night!Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-91844702613870471122014-04-28T19:39:00.002-05:002014-04-28T19:39:38.866-05:00A Streetcar In ParisWow, how time has flown. I'm ready to go back to Europe, but I never finished sharing my last visit. It was the most incredible trip I've ever had. My first trip, I did all the touristy things I felt obligated to do. This trip, I did all the things I wanted to do and saved time to explore and hang out with Parisians, like a Parisian. That's the way to truly experience a place, in my opinion!<br />
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Finishing up the walking tour, we ventured to the highest part of Montemartre, Sacre Coeur!<br />
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A view from Sacre Coeur. It's the Eiffel Tower in a tree!<br />
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I could reach out and touch it!<br />
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We rode a Streetcar...I didn't even know Paris had a streetcar. It was only about 2 blocks, but still..<br />
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Afterward, we ate, here:<br />
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My friend, Etienne taught me my new favorite thing, which I discovered at the restaurant...Cafe Gourmand. It was a sampling of desserts with espresso. Yummmmmola! I've been trying to talk restaurants into offering cafe gourmand, here!<br />
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Post walking tour and Sacre Coeur, I went to a private party, where a friend of my friend's friend (got it? Ok, good let's continue) was having a private party for his latest scarf designs. I didn't take any pictures; I thought it would be rude. Everyone was quite friendly. The apartment was located just before the building opened up into a courtyard...and the decor! It was so very perfect. Chic without seemingly trying to be so. Anyway, I didn't purchase any of the creative scarves, but I did buy this:<br />
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It was such a unique necklace - a leather braided back with several strands of chains; different textures and lengths. This photo does not do it justice...I'll have to take a photo wearing it!Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-21809691477058377452013-06-25T08:00:00.000-05:002013-06-26T07:52:59.359-05:00An Amazing AfternoonAfter saying Bonjour to the Eiffel Tower, I headed to the Arc de Triomphe. Along the way, I stumbled upon this street!<br />
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Writer, poet and politician. He wrote the Hunchback of Notre Dame, among other great literature, like Les Miserables.<br />
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Ahh, the Arc!<br />
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I also discovered my luggage, which I can't afford in this lifetime. The piece that has an envelope type design was the coolest! If the buckle was unfastened, it expanded quite a bit. I was in love!!! However, it was SO expensive, the least expensive thing was a key chain. It would set you back 70 euro. That's over $80.00 - for a key chain!<br />
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Walking down the Champs Elysees, I met this blushing Frenchman. Every time I said a word, he'd just blush. I promise, I wasn't saying anything "blush worthy" but it was so cute, nonetheless. I just wanted to take him home with me, he was so adorable. <br />
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Once I said, au revoir to the handsome, blushing Frenchman, I met my friend from Switzerland and we headed to my favorite part of Paris...Montmartre!!! We went on Sandeman's walking tour, which began outside the famous Moulin Rouge. Moulin means windmill and Rouge, as you probably know, means red. The red windmill. I didn't go inside. Firstly, I really have no desire and secondly, it's ridiculously expensive...something like 100 euro. A picture works for me!<br />
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Walking up to the highest part of Paris, we passed so many lovely streets:<br />
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Cafe 2 Moulins - cafe of two windmills: this is a significant place. It's where the film <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0211915/">Amelie</a> was written and filmed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH2ULLQlmBeB_oLwEN1JGmv11nUVj-5Ra4GhSP96G-J817PiW1Z3zz64wSjMa2CkgSJr5fbatEmwOzx6OAL899Wmk8OY6MzTDATEClNGM3sOF13u8HLQZfU1x70Vt0AFcMbZes9qdi23ZS/s1600/Mystic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH2ULLQlmBeB_oLwEN1JGmv11nUVj-5Ra4GhSP96G-J817PiW1Z3zz64wSjMa2CkgSJr5fbatEmwOzx6OAL899Wmk8OY6MzTDATEClNGM3sOF13u8HLQZfU1x70Vt0AFcMbZes9qdi23ZS/s320/Mystic.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
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This was one of my favorite stories. It looks like graffiti, but it's much more. The painting on the right is a self portrait of a famous Parisian artist, Mystic. She no longer looks like that, as she's aged about 50 years, but her story is awesome! She was young and in love. The story goes like this: her boyfriend, seemingly out of nowhere, breaks up with her. She's devastated. Not only does he break her heart, but tops it off by ending with, "I never want to see your face again." After she picks up her crushed heart and dusts it off, she thinks, "you never want to see my face again, huh." She made a stencil of her face and painted it outside all of his favorite hangouts. So, he'd see her face where ever he went. Rock on, sister...rock...on! <br />
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Standby...more of the walking tour to come!!Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-56958982505006213972013-06-23T15:59:00.001-05:002013-06-23T15:59:11.414-05:00Wonderful Paris...Once AgainIt's been three years since my last trip to Paris though it feels like decades. This trip, I was determined to pack even lighter than my last trip. Initially, I packed a weekender bag, but it allowed little in the way of souvenirs and it may not have been durable enough to withstand being checked luggage. So, I settled on this duffel - the weekender was packed inside so that I could use it as a carry on for the return trip. See, I use my noggin for something more than just looking pretty. :-)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Frvn1zDzXa_PJ1HJ5bmyPrOlU0RhCzI1v3ZGFbIHiY9q_2kL_rqijA1E75NKgORV3nt04acau_iPmRtAslhAnmmobAJ8Pi1At7JRc0DuzccZHZTP89-OrJm8w1W4dOlQZoP2prixRmL9/s1600/Duffel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Frvn1zDzXa_PJ1HJ5bmyPrOlU0RhCzI1v3ZGFbIHiY9q_2kL_rqijA1E75NKgORV3nt04acau_iPmRtAslhAnmmobAJ8Pi1At7JRc0DuzccZHZTP89-OrJm8w1W4dOlQZoP2prixRmL9/s320/Duffel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The downside of carrying a duffel or tote bag is that if you're traveling with someone who's using rolling luggage, you will wait for them a great deal. At curbs, at stairs, etc. While you wait, it will feel like your shoulders will fall off. All in all though, it wasn't too bad. Lesson learned, however.<br />
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The first day I was in Paris, it was a sunny warm day. So, I went to the Eiffel Tower. I took so many photos of the tower; one of the most well known sights in Paris. Here is my approach to the Tower on that first day:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihrI8qdgRrX4RF2GrSL3yabsP7VOiQs41lG-jyjwi5c2m6X0Kh9aZj0dOHaS8QubHOOVctNe22hZuDL1BXyVwJlgsoHEb3E7Q_DcNF1Y8WHcyRAqlSq9VwgCOJaGS4fGUHalRt2xh5DXMz/s1600/Tower+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihrI8qdgRrX4RF2GrSL3yabsP7VOiQs41lG-jyjwi5c2m6X0Kh9aZj0dOHaS8QubHOOVctNe22hZuDL1BXyVwJlgsoHEb3E7Q_DcNF1Y8WHcyRAqlSq9VwgCOJaGS4fGUHalRt2xh5DXMz/s320/Tower+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Not bad for the first afternoon. Fear not, my pretties, there's much more to come...the first day and beyond!</div>
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Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-42845084717759359432013-02-20T14:00:00.000-06:002013-02-20T14:00:02.902-06:00So, I Was Just Riding Along...When I came to this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVEK5nUCClWP83t8SJ1fnPas6HaHeNPoH5TjTWhL_elreXj25HqxqApzCCIMPwcW3x6wA70QUIJk-F16cafUx-j8vTso-iUeoOppLfQcaIes2H3-GQnnVyDuxTsE8mSEXWfTPR4_j6EkUP/s1600/End+of+the+Trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVEK5nUCClWP83t8SJ1fnPas6HaHeNPoH5TjTWhL_elreXj25HqxqApzCCIMPwcW3x6wA70QUIJk-F16cafUx-j8vTso-iUeoOppLfQcaIes2H3-GQnnVyDuxTsE8mSEXWfTPR4_j6EkUP/s320/End+of+the+Trail.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Had I been on my cross bike, it wouldn't have been end of the trail, by any means! This was my first ever ride in my new hometown. It's about 40 miles of paved trail - the Pinellas Trail. It's quite fun...the trail meanders though several quaint, cool towns. However, it's not really designed for a speedy 60-100 miles. It's better for a leisurely ride.</div>
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This is a view from the SPBC's (St. Pete Bike Club) start. That's Tampa Bay in the background. How cool is that? There's something about a cool morning and the smell of salt in the air. It's a nice way to wake up and spin out some miles.</div>
Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-43846572285768748992013-02-20T07:11:00.000-06:002013-02-20T07:11:37.656-06:00Sunday FundayI finally made it to the beach! With the exception of the past few days, we've been having unseasonably warm weather - so I've been told. It was overcast by the time we made it to the beach, but no matter. It was a good time. <br />
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After adequate lounging time, we made our way to Hurricane Restaurant to take in the view from above.</div>
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The view was pretty amazing. As the sun descended beyond the horizon, I notice a dorsal fin...then another, then another. EEEEEEKKKK. After a longer look, we all noticed that the dorsal fins were rounding in and out of the water. Dolphins. Not sharks. Whew! There were about 5 that we saw, coming toward the shore to feed. Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-7460671557368110642013-02-07T13:50:00.000-06:002013-02-21T07:13:00.817-06:00Discovering My New Neighborhood and Fringing My Jeans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I grew up in a "big small town." When it was founded, it was small; the river was the heartbeat of the city, so city mapping didn't extend too far from the riverfront. However, it grew, but the layout of the roads really didn't accommodate the growth very well. What do I mean? Well, the layout is pretty "jacked up." Streets dead end and pick up several blocks away. It makes absolutely NO sense, but it was what I knew.</div>
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Fast forward to two months ago. I'm walking downtown in my new city and stumble upon 3rd & 3rd. Yep, that's right. What's even more confusing is that there are four of them! There's a 3rd Ave. N, 3rd Ave. S., 3rd St. N., and 3rd St. S. Thank goodness for gps. However, my gps navigator (I named her Roberta, 'cuz she sounds like a robot) seems to like to mess with me. I'll just be driving along on the route that she suggests, then out of the blue, she'll say, in a demanding tone, "make u-turn and turn right onto 22nd Ave N." I'll scream at her..."but I AM on 22nd Ave. N." Then, I remember that I'm yelling at my phone, like a crazy person and just proceed. But I digress. Now, that I know that streets run north & south, I'm able to find my way around town.</div>
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The Dali museum is only about a mile away! This was my favorite part of the Dali museum. The art was cool, too. There were a couple of pieces that I could stare at all day, but overall, it's not my style of art. No doubt, he was a creative visionary, though!</div>
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View of the bay from the Dali Museum.<br />
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While visiting the Dali, I noticed that Marissa Tomei worked there. Who knew?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAGiRFHQFbqMgxW5pODqRrZ_Womk2Bdpb_0d_JJX1Cn3f1xd_JpF5MHeUZLr7BukBwmwSYNwGteHZp2gdNolpANsxuZtmPCZjbJaB0jAHT7G1hplneQcwM2RgReO1L4QzlRuw-h5fo6TD/s1600/2012-12-30+14.12.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAGiRFHQFbqMgxW5pODqRrZ_Womk2Bdpb_0d_JJX1Cn3f1xd_JpF5MHeUZLr7BukBwmwSYNwGteHZp2gdNolpANsxuZtmPCZjbJaB0jAHT7G1hplneQcwM2RgReO1L4QzlRuw-h5fo6TD/s320/2012-12-30+14.12.23.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Couldn't help taking this picture of what's going on. Yes, those are fringed jeans...not cut off capris...FRINGED! New fashion trend? <br />
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I haven't yet made it to this museum, but can't wait! Chihuly! I love, love, love his stuff. One day, I aspire to own a piece. One of those gnarly chandeliers would be an amazing addition to my crib!<br />
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This is a place downtown. I'm all for supporting women getting off the streets, but I don't know about this. I kid...but I must find out the story behind the name. I hear they have wonderful tea. I have yet to try it out, but will give you a full report once I do.<br />
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At the famous, Jannis Landing, an ACDC cover band shook me all night long. </div>
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Just a gorgeous scene near Beach Drive. I can't believe it's winter!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3_8YFn0vWfTlteOJ82OHns98ck9LG-A_mbgvsSSu7VlK565GsLTWL34iAkOlKL7ia1EycfOM0VEzcwA1NmyJq0oh6Vx4aweS2CeAsz5av_-y2KNyOn0mXL2qbu6D9MrJNqm2J37_GBmD/s1600/chihuly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Anybody know what kind of tree this is? At first, I thought it was covered in Spanish Moss. However, those tendrils aren't moss, they're root type growths...very odd, yet quite lovely. </div>
<br />Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-7757003375007935592013-02-02T19:37:00.003-06:002013-02-09T10:46:59.720-06:00Holiday Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Shortly after moving, I met up with one of my college friends, and sorority sisters. We had dinner in my, soon to be new 'hood, in my new city. Although, it was 70 degrees, it was beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the waterfront. Warm temperatures didn't stop the locals from "ice skating." Really, it was less like ice and more like particle board. And...the skating was less like skating and more like tip toeing on ice skates. No matter. It was a testament to creative thinking, but mostly, it was hilarious to witness.</div>
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One of my sisters from another mister and me in "Santa's village" or whatever it was.<br />
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NYE, my friends and I found ourselves at this really cool jazz club. An old guy...like 80yrs old...in a puffy starter jacket and sideways baseball cap was there and wouldn't let any girl dance alone. He was a riot...wish I had a picture of him in action. James Blount was there, too. He took a break from entertaining us long enough for a picture. I love the guy in the background who's trying to photo-bomb us.</div>
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OK...ok...his name was Matt (I think), but he looks like James Blount, no?</div>
<br />Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-90770138973179912582012-12-10T07:30:00.000-06:002012-12-10T07:30:02.847-06:00I Say Goodbye, But Also Hello!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last week, I said goodbye to my hometown. There were tears shed, but much support given to me on my new, exciting adventure. There are so many things I'll miss about Memphis - my friends the obvious #1 on that list. A few other gems include: <a href="http://www.staxmuseum.com/">Stax Museum</a> (one of the greatest places on earth), eclectic Midtown with it's wacky cool art, neighborhood cafes, bars, nightlife and diversity.</div>
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One of my last lunches included a sandwich and pasta salad from Fino's from the Hill. I'll miss being able to walk around the corner for some delicious Italian fare from this deli!<br />
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When I left, my department gave me the Eiffel Tower as a going away gift. They even set the clock to St. Petersburg's time. Very thoughtful and touching. Although, it confuses those who don't know how much I love Paris and the Tower. "You're moving to Florida, right?" "Not Paris?" Yes, folks...not Paris...yet. My friends just know me well!<br />
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As soon as the first of my belongings arrived, I promptly brought the Eiffel Tower to work, where it now resides on the corner of my desk. Now, I have a constant reminder of the amazing co-workers I had the pleasure to work with in Memphis!<br />
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My first day of work in the new city, state & office: What a wonderfully warm welcome!<br />
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Everyone has been extremely friendly...it's definitely a positive atmosphere.Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3700384496926647987.post-274548898657266502012-11-28T08:37:00.000-06:002012-12-09T10:17:48.166-06:00Going Away, Part DeuxAnother farewell shindig was at my favorite Irish Pub, "The Brass Door." The lighting wasn't great for my crappy phone to take adequate photos, but you get the idea. It was fun!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend since high school was in town and able to be there for my send off!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seemus and me having a hearty laugh!</td></tr>
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My friend, Mary was there and played "Danny Boy" for me on the piano that's located in the bar area. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_Fv9h7-gyFvF3vCqSX93Cfg1gXTrOfsz1rrhU5k4dR5aTO640NFHeV5RUC4ASoLavYJG2uSr-wzTXx5AKgmlsARApjUPgHWm4aTvqfspCdzOgugPEyYL4I576rjMLbdGTTuTGXlPgFsX/s1600/Mary+-+Danny+Boy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_Fv9h7-gyFvF3vCqSX93Cfg1gXTrOfsz1rrhU5k4dR5aTO640NFHeV5RUC4ASoLavYJG2uSr-wzTXx5AKgmlsARApjUPgHWm4aTvqfspCdzOgugPEyYL4I576rjMLbdGTTuTGXlPgFsX/s320/Mary+-+Danny+Boy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDNLdBfjwd6plX2wOCU6zDgJ8XqAFVfwsWcfx-WPnKMeizyPcoTQFQxa1nLZ3VhIREGsPEilqhV6_KQdspKC1x4gtyTQzbu4VPjsmpCKYOgTSkhSt7qJnLp-gnj3qvQsf3EB4RMHBd1qFK/s1600/Tom+&+Shamus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDNLdBfjwd6plX2wOCU6zDgJ8XqAFVfwsWcfx-WPnKMeizyPcoTQFQxa1nLZ3VhIREGsPEilqhV6_KQdspKC1x4gtyTQzbu4VPjsmpCKYOgTSkhSt7qJnLp-gnj3qvQsf3EB4RMHBd1qFK/s320/Tom+&+Shamus.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom & Seemus having a face off!</td></tr>
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Oh, Memphis, how I will miss you. Planet MarTayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14014777170089278283noreply@blogger.com0