Monday, September 28, 2009

Keep 'em coming

Last Monday was a gorgeous day in Seattle. Today was a pretty great day in San Diego. I think I'm on a roll....
I couldn't resist a little pool time. Who says it's almost October?
(This picture was taken of my reflection in the mirrored window.)



I walked around the waterfront with two of our pilots (who are Navy guys) that I met on the van to the hotel. We ate at this Kansas City BBQ place that was filmed in Top Gun. Remember Goose playing the piano? That's the one. A fire gutted it a few years ago, but it was rebuilt and new memorabilia was added. (It's still a dive.)



(I had been out at the pool when I met up with the guys, so I was in a swimsuit coverup/dress as we walked. I looked a bit sleazy too. Perfect for the atmosphere, I guess.)

The Aircraft carrier Midway. I will definitely tour it next time I'm here. I love these things.



It was a lovely day to be outside.



The beach is only thing that would have made it perfect. Maybe next time I'll head there...
As I'm typing, here is my view: You can't beat it.

Just another day at the office.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

I get paid to do this?!


Who needs vacation, with a job like mine?
I had an eight hour day on the plane, yet I was still able to spend the day in Seattle. Crazy, huh? The beauty of coming from the east is the arrival time in the west. I couldn't let a 5 a.m. lobby time (central) spoil my sunny and warm day in Seattle. I set off on public transportation at 1:00 pm. and was on the waterfront by 2:00. Writing this, I am sitting in my hotel, amazed by the ease of my travels and the beauty of the city.
Today was a glorious day.
Since the weather was in the mid 80's, it seemed as though all the inhabitants of the city were outside enjoying the sunshine. I was just another partaker.
I may to need preface that food is a favorite part of enjoying a destination. :)
First, I had passionfruit gelato as I walked to Pike Street Market. Along the way, I made a detour into KuKuRuZa, a gourmet popcorn store. I enjoyed talking to this nice girl employee.
(who is in this picture)
As I was paying for some popcorn, the really hot manager/owner/diligent worker interjected and asked if I lived in Seattle. After I answered no, he smiled and said,
" Too bad. You seem like fun."
HELLO?!
I would move to Seattle for you! ( Or for men like you.)
Is that how it happens for people? A friendly conversation on a sunny day turns into a possible date?
Whatever it is, I like it.




Once in the market, I bought (and ate) a basket of cherry tomatoes.....



I then walked along the waterfront to Ivar's for some delicious fish and chips. Just recently, they found a sign in the ocean that advertised Ivar's clam chowder for 75 cents.
Ivar's is currently honoring that original price. (I took one to go.)





After my progressive lunch, I decided to work off some calories shopping.
No pictures. (No evidence.)

I headed back to the hotel on the bus with all the local commuters. It was still daylight, so I took this picture out my hotel window:



Dinner of Champions:



I couldn't have asked for a better day.
I am blessed and lucky to have a job I love, while interacting with wonderful people and exploring lovely cities.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

The Great Outdoors

I know that I am a bit biased, but I love Northern California. Seriously. This place is amazing. With very little effort we were hiking in redwood forests and camping near the beach. I spent some time in Big Sur this weekend. We wished it could have been a longer stay, but it really was awesome- even for a limited time. I probably enjoyed one of my best hikes (in recent history.) Melissa and Liz made the trip full of laughter and fun. Our adventures included motorcycle clubs, the bike buddies bike race, and a troubadour with a bunny on his head - not to mention camping, hiking, and relaxing on the beach. I can't wait to do it again soon.