Road trip approaches

I'm still planning my road trip. For those of you wondering what I'm talking about, you can read about it here. I've had a few ideas of places I wanted to visit. As I mentioned it the other day to someone, I realized how close it is. I'm really getting excited.

On my list is : Kamloops, White Rock, Lilly Point, Seattle, Butchart Gardens and possibly Lynn Canyon
Of course there will be many points in between and on the way home, but so far these, are a must.

My mind is whirring with ideas of what to bring, what I want to experience, what I want to eat, all the firsts I will accomplish, and how much planning I want to do ahead of time. I mean the whole point is to "wing it", be free, make decisions on the fly.But I certainly don't want to miss any of my MUSTS, because I spent too much time in a one place or another. It's only a week, and I know it will fly by.

The excitement hadn't really hit me, until yesterday.A  friend told me of a place called Lilly Point, and posted a picture, I thought..." I can go there!" I can go wherever I want. Hello! Light bulb!

Of course all this excitement is not overshadowing the nervousness I'm also experiencing. I've never gone anywhere for a week by myself. I don't think I've ever stayed home for a week by myself either. I mean I will see friends along the way, but essentially I'm on my own. Just typing that, excites me. I LOVE firsts. Makes me feel alive. I'm looking forward to talking with people, hearing their stories, seeing new things, trying new food, overcoming a few fears, and generally fending for myself.  I'll have my phone with me, so I'll always be in touch, when I want to, or feel I have to. I'm sure my family will want me to check in, every once in a while. I know my kids will miss me and want to say hello now and again.

You can bet my stereo will be getting a work out on this trip too. Can't have a road trip without tunes. Songs to sing loudly with, songs for just listening, songs for crying to, and of course songs for drumming on the steering wheel. THAT I will plan ahead!

So you see the area I'm headed. Do you have any ideas for me? Places to visit, places to eat, places to sleep? I welcome your suggestions.

Love language

Valentine's Day has come and gone for another year. I have never analyzed the day as much as I have this year. I've always loved the day. Sure we have the entire year to show our love. Many do.(show their love, I mean) Some need the day. Others could care less. None of them are wrong.

All of our love languages are different. What you need is not necessarily what I need. Hopefully your love language is the same or complimentary to the ones you're with. And I say oneS, because this day is not just for the lovers, but for all of those you love.

awwwwwwwww!

I know of a couple who donated blood together. I know of another couple who ignored it altogether. I know of another couple who decided against gifts,due to lack of money. He broke the pact and purchased a gift for her anyway. HIS love language. I know of a mom who left treat bags out for her kids in the morning. I know of another who incorporated red and hearts into every meal throughout the day, including the beverages! (she ROCKS) I know of another couple who celebrated in grand style. Singing throughout the day, straightening his wife's hair, dinner and music. All followed by a passionate night, no doubt. *wink wink*

she also blogs. check it out HERE

frittatas and toast

While these days are all different, they are all wonderfully accepted. We all have different needs and expectations and as long as yours are being met, there shouldn't be a problem. The only problem I have is, with the negativeness that some bring. It's a day of love. How can anything be wrong with that? We should actually have more days like that. If you think it's a big commercial holiday, then don't buy anything. Show your love in other ways. If you don't want to recognize it, that's fine. But there is no need to bash it. No need to throw our your negative comments. Is this an attempt to tell others how foolish they are being. An attempt to show that you are above all of this? I realize some are affected by the pressure of it all. But it's so easy to show love, that I sometimes think that it's a cop out to call it a commercial holiday, and that's why you're not participating. Your loved ones are worth more than that. Cut out a heart and write "I love you" on it. Home made Valentines have always been the BEST! At least they are, with me.

I have to admit that a few of the 'nay sayers' were getting me down yesterday. I was starting to fall into the "this is a fake holiday" mood.  I'm glad to say that the love won out and it was palpable throughout the night as   all the 'social media outlets', filled me in on the days events for others. We need more love in this world. If one day a year is devoted entirely to this, then I am a fan. I will do better next year. In my defense, I WAS busy with trying to get out my Valentine letter (ex-Christmas letter), and we just got home from California a couple of days before the day. There is always next year. Always.

I would love to hear your thoughts on the day and what you did. Leave a comment, would ya? If you have the time, watch the video at the bottom of the page! Have a love filled day! :)