tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-280905552024-03-07T04:44:00.931-04:00The Princess Said So...The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.comBlogger505125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-35316997837368578972012-06-23T18:37:00.003-03:002012-06-23T18:37:38.871-03:00It's Magic!I haven't given up on the challenge, I just haven't had alot of time to post lately. Summer is short and I plan to make the most of it. It's rainy this weekend so we decided to stay home instead of going to the trailer. I was irritated (bit of an understatement) with the weather at first. But in the end, a weekend at home has been good. I even got a head start on some Canada Day items for next weekend. Thank you, Pinterest. <br />
So, you know those nasty yellow stain you get in the pits of your white t-shirts? You need to try <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/255720085062160736/" target="_blank">this</a> home remedy. It worked amazingly well - it was magical, if you will. I would have to say this has been the most successful thing I've tried so far.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-28390821871805657572012-06-12T20:07:00.000-03:002012-06-12T20:07:02.055-03:00UnsuccessfulI wasn't very successful in the challenge this week. I tried lots of stuff but most of them weren't very enjoyable. <br />
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First up was this <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/255720085062063597/" target="_blank">workout</a> . It was tough but seemed very effective. I would say this was successful but I had a hard time sticking to it. It sort of made me want to vomit. Intensely. I am very out of shape.<br />
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To make myself feel better, I tried a new cocktail. You know how I love my cocktails. <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/255720085062065272/" target="_blank">Sarasota Lemonade</a> was, unfortunately, a fail. I didn't enjoy the mashed raspberries. I don't enjoy chewing my drinks and the flavour was a bit like floral cough syrup. I would try this one again using a different wine, I didn't use the one in the photos, and I would only float whole raspberries. No mashing.<br />
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After coercing the Littlest Princess into a 30 minute hike through Killarney Lake, I rewarded her with this <strike>shit</strike> <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/255720085062103290/" target="_blank">Hawaiian Blizzard</a>. We both agreed it was yucky. <br />
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Sadly, 2 out of 3 this week were fails. The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-33301985396189711852012-06-04T19:53:00.001-03:002012-06-04T19:53:25.315-03:00Simple Yet EffectiveStill going strong on the Pinterest Challenge so this <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/255720085062057004/" target="_blank">next one</a> wasn't difficult, I just didn't think of it myself. <br />
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Look at me keeping my wine cold with frozen grapes. I love it when a plan comes together. The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-44591777790261291632012-06-02T11:34:00.000-03:002012-06-02T16:13:45.843-03:00I Loves Me the Interweb!I'm one of those people who can lose myself for hours surfing the web. What's not to love? All the information I could possibly want at the tips of my fingers. For a few years now, I've been resisting the temptation of Pinterest.com. I knew I would lose hours of my life that I would never get back. However, this week I succumbed and I'm in love. In addition to my love of the Internet, I also love to collect things. Add those two together and the result is files upon files of items that I've saved because I *HAVE* to try. Let me tell you, Pinterest is not helping. <br />
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So this is what I've come up with - I'm doing a Pinterest Summer Challenge. I am going to try at least one item per week that I pin to my boards. If I fail, I'm leaving Pinterst. I have no idea how that will be enforced since I also love instant gratification and breaking rules. But that's not the point. Here is the link to my boards, if you are intersted. <a href="http://pinterest.com/sj0208/" target="_blank">http://pinterest.com/sj0208/</a><br />
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Here is what I'm trying today -<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/255720085062060860/" target="_blank">Lunch</a> . Lunch for the Littlest Princess! I'll have to sneak some nutrition on there somewhere. But, c'mon, it's the weekend. We need a treat now and then.<br />
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Update - the Littlest Princess enjoyed lunch. Obviously, the taste was lacking but she enjoyed the novelty. <br />
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Also tried this <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/255720085062056949/" target="_blank">Hair</a> today. I didn't notice anything different in my hair. Yes, I have naturally curly hair but I blew it out a bit today to try this. The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-81552198180608254002012-02-29T12:13:00.001-04:002012-02-29T13:40:00.947-04:00Oh No You Didn't....Yesterday was certainly a cultural mix for us. We hung out at the hotel until about 10:30 am. Side note - during that time at the hotel, I dropped the laptop and some how pulled off the "M" key. Now that one and the surrounding keys are acting like stubborn children. Okay, late morning, we hopped on a street car and headed up the road to find the famed food trucks. We had Bahn Mi sandwiches from the Nom Nom truck. In case, you aren't addicted the the Food Network like I am, the Nom Nom trucked was on a show called The Great Food Truck Race and they won. I can totally see why. So good. I followed that up with a S'mores cupcake from the cupcake truck. It was good too. I should mention that Monday I had a Maple Bacon cupcake from a store around the corner. It was delightful.<br />
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After we ate we decided to hop back on the streetcar and stay on that line up to the Castro. The Castro is the gay and lesbian area of San Francisco. The architecture there is amazing. We were going to just stay on the street car and go back but the driver suggested we get off and walk a bit so we did. As we got back to the street car stop, we could hear yelling from a gas station across the street. There were to older men, a woman and a few police going at it. It was like a real life version of Cops. We watched for a while and there was alot of finger pointing and yelling about discrimination. After a few minutes, don't the 2 old guys walk over to the street car stop?! One guy was just reaming the other, who apparently was named Steve. I texted my sister and said "It's like Mom and Dad played by 2 gay men with a touch of mental illness thrown in!". For reals. Just as the street car arrived, a freaking air raid siren went off. Jesus, I couldn't decided if I was about to die in a Tsunami or a nasty earthquake. Finally, the siren stopped and a voice said "This is a test." Good to know!<br />
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Steve and his partner rode the street car with us for awhile. I tried to video tape them with my phone but Steve saw me and I didn't want him to get angry with me. He started talking to some other people and his partner started yelling at him, very loudly, to "Stop interrogating those people!" To which Steve replied "I'm integrating!" LOL...integration is going gobal. After being berated a bit futher about taking his meds, Steve decided he'd had enough, said he was walking the rest of the way and hopped off at the next stop. I was not sad. Steve smelled like ass and stunk the place up. Goodbye Steve. I wish I could do this story justice. But really, how can you describe to flaming gay, elderly men having a very public quarrel. It was something to behold.<br />
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In the afternoon, The Wounded One managed to attended the conference for a few hours so I hit up Sephora. It is a kick ass makeup store that I could get lost in for a very long time. I decided I would like some new foundation and eye makeup and asked for assistance in picking out a palette. I was lucky to be paired up with Josh. He was great. He told me I have beautiful skin and now we are one for life. Whether he likes it or not. This city is very culturally diverse and there are many times that we find ourselves to be the only white people around and it's not a big deal. I mentioned to Josh that lately I find I have alot of redness around my nose and I need some coverage in that area. He looked around and said "Yes, that is what happens to us white people when we get older." Funny but odd. Anyway, I spent an hour with Josh and $102.00 but I tell you my skin looks flawless! Time and money well spent.<br />
Last night we went out for authentic Mexican for supper. It has forever ruined me for any "Mexican" food we have at home. I had a real marguarita and Chicken Mole. It was delicious. I can't remember what J had but it was equally as good. I had some of his too.<br />
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Today, hopefully we can track down the falafel cart and the creme brulee cart. After I snow this "M: key who is boss!The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-55283786994685957332012-02-28T13:38:00.003-04:002012-02-28T13:38:39.577-04:00Ups and DownsYesterday was our first full day here. We are here because J is attending a conference and yesterday was only registration so we basically had a free day. Ala, a free day was not meant to be. At the end of last week, J developed a cold - not good news when you are flying. On Sunday, we had to take 2 flights to get here and by the time we landed in SF, J was experiencing intense pain in his ears and could not hear. Sunday night he didn't get a wink of sleep all night because of the pain and disorientation. <br />
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When I woke up yesterday morning, he said he needed to see a doctor. Ahh....welcome to the land of paying for health care. The hotel arranged a doctor for J and we saw him first thing in the morning. All told it cost $560.00 for the visit, 2 very large shots in the ass, 1 nasal spray, 3 oral prescriptions, and a follow up visit on Thursday night. The verdict, you ask? J MIGHT be able to fly home on Saturday. At this point, flying would rupture his ear drum. Good times. If he is not better by Thursay they could perform a procedure when they slice in ear drum and insert a tube so he can fly. J refuses. Instead, he has been looking at bus fares to get home. He said I can still fly. <br />
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On to the upside, I bought a great new purse yesterday. At one point, I was carrying six trying to decide on one. J is no help in that department at all. His advice? Buy them all because we won't be coming back here again. But that was only one store. I can't drop all my cash in one spot. I still have to go back to my 3 level shoe and purse store. I've been there 3 times already just to scope things out. <br />
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Last night for supper, we went to a place called Fog Harbour Fish House and had cioppino. I've wanted to try cioppino since we we're last here 2 years ago. It did not disappoint. It was fantastic. The views of the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz all lit up made it even better. I must learn how to made cioppino at home. Althought the dungeness crab may be hard to come by. <br />
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Not sure what today holds. I'm guessing more shopping and authentic Mexican for supper. Ole!The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-70001181864875155082012-02-27T13:16:00.002-04:002012-02-27T13:16:46.214-04:00Adventures in CaliforniaI'm back in San Francisco this week. J has a conference so I tagged along for fun. We've been here before and it is a bit different the second time around. We're a bit more confident and we know where we want to go. <br />
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One thing that hasn't changed is how this city makes me feel completely insecure about my looks each time I walk out the door. I just spent an hour blow drying my hair, curling my hair, and putting on my make up. That didn't include even include the time it took to shower. I don't do that home getting ready for work! California is the land of beautiful people and this city is very on top of the current fashions. Each time I walk out the door, I feel like a country bumpkin out in the big city. <br />
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Fredericton, NB is about a year behind the fashion here. The last time I was here, skinny jeans or leggings with boots up to the knee were everywhere. I wore skinny jeans and boots when I got home but nobody else was doing it. It took a good year for that trend to take hold at home. Now, it's very common place.<br />
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I've only been here about 24 hours but I'm already noticing the trend here that hasn't hit at home yet. Skinny jeans with booties. Booties would be high heel boots that cut off just above the ankle. They are everywhere. Unlike the skinny jeans and leggings with the higher boots, I won't be bringing the trend home with me. But if you want to get a head start, rush out and getting some booties and wear them with your skinny jeans. Mark my words, a year from know everyone in Fredericton will be wearing them.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-46536298169614460222011-11-13T09:41:00.001-04:002011-11-13T09:42:15.162-04:00Dear SantaDear Santa,<br />
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I have but one item on my wish list this year.<br />
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Gas, 5 burners, 2 ovens. I'm in love.<br />
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S.<br />The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-37588793222837337432011-10-02T19:18:00.002-03:002011-10-02T19:28:44.424-03:00Cooking SundayAround here, Sunday is known as cooking day. Original, I know. Normally, each Sunday I make a few things for the week ahead. Typically, I make a soup or casserole for lunches, bread, cookies if JJ is around, and cupcakes This week was somewhat of a fail since I only made cupcakes and one dessert over 2 days. Yesterday I made a dessert called Sopapilla Cheesecake. It was great and very simple to make. It only requires crescent rolls, cream cheese, butter, sugar, vanilla and cinnamon. It will definitely be a keeper. Today I made Lemon Cream and they were only okay. I prefer a light and fluffy cupcake and I found these to be too dense. <br /><br />I usually enjoy cooking on Sundays but today I just felt like sitting on the couch. So I did. I'm sure I will be cursing myself halfway through the week when I'm stuck eating store bought bread. Yup, that is the glamorous life I lead... in which I complain about eating store bought bread.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-73301928690890858202011-09-29T20:08:00.003-03:002011-09-29T20:18:45.184-03:00It's Been AwhileI guess you know it's been awhile when it takes THAT long to log in. Geesh. Like everyone else, it's been a busy spring and summer but it's still hard to believe I haven't updated since April. I guess at some point I just ran out of things to say. Anyone who knows me in real life who have a very difficult time believing that.<br /><br />I'm going to try to maintain this blog but I'm going to worry less about having a "story" or a theme to talk about. I'm going to just update life as it happens. Because more and more I find I'm forgetting the every day things that go on and this is a good place for me to keep track.<br /><br />Since my last post was about Jamaica, I think it's only appropriate to share that I'm headed back there again in January. Please keep that a secret because it's a Christmas present for the Littlest Princess. She should be (better be) pretty excited! I know am I!<br /><br />The entire top floor of the house has been painted and redecorated. Next I just need to put up a tile backsplash in the kitchen and it should be all done. Just in time to put this place on the market and get the hell out of dodge! I feel that your neighbour burning grass with a flame thrower only 10 feet from your house is a good indicator that you should move. Actually, I have a whole bag full of those indicators but only a few hours before bed.<br /><br />What else....I'm going to back to San Francisco in March. That should be fun and a whole different experience from the first time. <br /><br />My cat is still an asshole. Gorgeous but an asshole just the same.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-17759473885432929132011-04-09T21:53:00.011-03:002011-04-09T22:34:28.353-03:00JamaicaThis time last week, I was just rolling through the door after a week in paradise. The arsehole cat was happy to see me and my tan was still fresh. It's been a rough week of cooking my own meals, making and doctoring my own coffee, no jerk chicken, and not a single person has brought my a slushy drink all week. I know, it's sad but true. We had a great trip! I loved being back in Jamaica. It's a beautiful tropical paradise but it's the people that keep me wanting to go back. It's not easy to put into words. Just a fun loving, friendly people. The resort we went to is called Secrets St. James and it was phenomenal. First class luxury all the way. But, to tell the truth, it was too fancy for me. The customer service was so thorough that it actually made me uncomfortable. We wanted for nothing...they waited on us hand and foot. The food was delicious and the beach was phenomenal. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQJT-wQhtHfrQvPJERlf_PyEnu0xxA1CmiWgVak1VxeH_NBVgjzpKfC9qLAIrbcton72dQGokdagin1S7Xc7pPwPEDrJgdUme2-QFOoMg7BtxEF6nITMFwv9ggTBR5Nc9VPxK6g/s1600/Christmas-Jamaica+138.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593753040937702722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQJT-wQhtHfrQvPJERlf_PyEnu0xxA1CmiWgVak1VxeH_NBVgjzpKfC9qLAIrbcton72dQGokdagin1S7Xc7pPwPEDrJgdUme2-QFOoMg7BtxEF6nITMFwv9ggTBR5Nc9VPxK6g/s320/Christmas-Jamaica+138.jpg" /></a> Those are my feet enjoying the beach on our first day. There is a 2 hour time difference so we were sitting on the beach shortly after 6 am each day. I love it. I can sleep at home when it's snowing and cold. I wanted to get every minutes of sun, surf and warmth that I could. We stayed on the beach each day until close to 5 pm. Only getting up for food and drinks. Providing no one delivered them for us. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaVUIqI5rnkLl5hdX6bhrSvbwJ8U6mcMX-IXiBWcf75DogLGlL5UkRWSt8sC_Ex0ef5T7VIy8Cqsdb0B_UtkxaHbnxwH4V899iYmdIVCRuclqEIocTzvibZx2iu1-F5iRFEtmwyA/s1600/Christmas-Jamaica+139.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593752922698781250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaVUIqI5rnkLl5hdX6bhrSvbwJ8U6mcMX-IXiBWcf75DogLGlL5UkRWSt8sC_Ex0ef5T7VIy8Cqsdb0B_UtkxaHbnxwH4V899iYmdIVCRuclqEIocTzvibZx2iu1-F5iRFEtmwyA/s320/Christmas-Jamaica+139.jpg" /></a> We didn't even crack a book or magazine for the first few days. We just layed in the sun, people watched, chatted, and enjoyed the water. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-pfedNowdAWX6WmcjOkOI6F1OgeBT1cXcpiBnXnGZZUG-Z8uxpwaJBPxYm21O0oC2YJUNjZktzlKEoMslvRO438t1UQnjLVZufuMt7L6B23JgadNb9mopUDaS5gpzTHPn9rxhVQ/s1600/Christmas-Jamaica+182.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593752781161420754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-pfedNowdAWX6WmcjOkOI6F1OgeBT1cXcpiBnXnGZZUG-Z8uxpwaJBPxYm21O0oC2YJUNjZktzlKEoMslvRO438t1UQnjLVZufuMt7L6B23JgadNb9mopUDaS5gpzTHPn9rxhVQ/s320/Christmas-Jamaica+182.jpg" /></a> This is the view of the pool from my patio. Oh, and my feet again. :) Just off to the right is the beach only 30 seconds from my door. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYHAE5BEWdtWYiuOpY9eZDpVAsygmd8Jg13Max8cuAsccVp4ZBurCm15fc2ueQ30FgsKh3BxehqSf_Z6MBCb9I64PvkP83Ftt4uZZIWiyE6AlyLoMzap8JZBprMMzfW3OnEEsxQ/s1600/Christmas-Jamaica+176.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593752599861666258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYHAE5BEWdtWYiuOpY9eZDpVAsygmd8Jg13Max8cuAsccVp4ZBurCm15fc2ueQ30FgsKh3BxehqSf_Z6MBCb9I64PvkP83Ftt4uZZIWiyE6AlyLoMzap8JZBprMMzfW3OnEEsxQ/s320/Christmas-Jamaica+176.jpg" /></a> I took this pic standing on the bridge over the pool that you see in the photo above. Notice the beach just past the infinity pool. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MrtOEdSj29pAZnjKh5-stX3vMAv_WMGMBKgarjerWD0tY7mP5eHbuX7XHleOdn3TnDjBSByAEWx7fs7dmsq-S622k4w7Gpw9KXla8Tr-g_6hLYQVJhvITz6Q0sqN7RB2H12HqA/s1600/Christmas-Jamaica+157.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593752596357548850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MrtOEdSj29pAZnjKh5-stX3vMAv_WMGMBKgarjerWD0tY7mP5eHbuX7XHleOdn3TnDjBSByAEWx7fs7dmsq-S622k4w7Gpw9KXla8Tr-g_6hLYQVJhvITz6Q0sqN7RB2H12HqA/s320/Christmas-Jamaica+157.jpg" /></a> We took our own floaties and it was so worth the weight in the suitcase. One morning at 8:30 am we were floating in the Caribbean Sea drinking Blue Mountain coffee from our Bubba Kegs. It doesn't get any better. Until lunch time when the roaming Jerk Chicken cart comes around and you stuff it into your mouth hand over fist while sipping rum from a coconut beside the Caribbean Sea!!! <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpno1Lc7mDozowzcpozuF-Yu2cICsOY69lWW8RajhMaCzxZVKlNLkG-NxM6pSfji20sxi9A3uRTIWHbLd6vg0qrBcJHw9fKOgOXVteWyEmn9fZgH_rKW8m-VzYKgcx_IilWA9bw/s1600/Christmas-Jamaica+186.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593752325006614834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpno1Lc7mDozowzcpozuF-Yu2cICsOY69lWW8RajhMaCzxZVKlNLkG-NxM6pSfji20sxi9A3uRTIWHbLd6vg0qrBcJHw9fKOgOXVteWyEmn9fZgH_rKW8m-VzYKgcx_IilWA9bw/s320/Christmas-Jamaica+186.jpg" /></a> We also spend half a day on a catamaran cruise where we got to do some snorkeling and see some local sights. For the snorkeling, they took us to a marine preservation area that happens to be right under the flight path for incoming plane at the airport. One landed while we were in the water and it was so close that I could see up inside the doors for the landing gear and smell the jet fuel. A tad unnerving but really neat too. Notice the hair in the above photo. I had just come out of the water and was in the process of pulling it back when J says "I don't like it when you pull your hair back. It makes you look like everyone else. It looks good down." So I left it down and let it air dry. Looking back at the pics I realized he was right. When my hair air dries after being wet from being in salt water, I don't look like everyone else. I look like a freaking lunatic with a giant, wet, used, rusty SOS pad sprouting from my head. This pic was one of the better ones. Stupid boat with no mirror. Note to self - ignore the comment and pull the hair back. Every. Time. </div><br /><div>One of the highlights of the trip, for me, was seeing the Silverbirds Steel drum band. I've seen steel drum bands in Jamaica in the past and I was looking forward to the performance. This group was so incredible. Check them out on YouTube. They started out playing the expected steel drum music and all of a sudden broke into Grenade by Bruno Mars. They made my want to jump out of my seat and dance. They played everything from Micheal Jackson to Lady Gaga, BEP, Rihanna and others I can't even remember. They are awesome to hear but you have to see them dance to fully appreciate everything they do. I would happily pay alot of money to see them perform again. <br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3PuXzrErdPW_jBn9I-63JNxg1692h7l7Teounvppk0vYPo24EaR3t6fRVH5EV6tv24ZpdMbIkSJvbXcHID_yFzCvI2aiOXx1xw-REMrI_iL3q6uaZQasUFMftjxNmJDtdR6r1pw/s1600/Christmas-Jamaica+169.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593751741353752322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3PuXzrErdPW_jBn9I-63JNxg1692h7l7Teounvppk0vYPo24EaR3t6fRVH5EV6tv24ZpdMbIkSJvbXcHID_yFzCvI2aiOXx1xw-REMrI_iL3q6uaZQasUFMftjxNmJDtdR6r1pw/s320/Christmas-Jamaica+169.jpg" /></a> And, finally, this photo. Stop saying "OMG", it's not what you think. J went back to the room one afternoon and was back on the beach 3 minutes later. He asked me our room number and I told him but asked why he was asking. He told me he went back to the room and thought he had confused our room number because the key wouldn't work.........and there was a Honeymoon banner on the door. We went back to the room and sure enough there it was. Clearly, they put it on the wrong door in error but it provided a great laugh for us. We thought it was hilarious and left it for the week. Too funny.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So those are the highlights. Jamaica is still my favourite Caribbean destination but I believe I should keep travelling and trying different places. You know, just to make sure. ;) <br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-10473036974408242902011-03-21T21:20:00.002-03:002011-03-21T21:22:40.257-03:00Packed and ReadyMy bags are packed and I'm ready to leave for Jamaica. Let's be honest, my bags have been packed since I was supposed to leave in January. Stupid travel agency that I'll never use again. BUT I'm trying to be be bitter. There are 4 days, not counting today because I just ripped it off, left on the countdown calendar and I can't wait to leave. Seven days of sun, sand, drinks, and the Jamaican vibe. I can't wait to go back.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-18262058494606136572011-02-21T13:05:00.002-04:002011-02-21T13:07:29.761-04:00The Forgotten ArtIt would seem there is a forgotten art when it comes to posing for photographs. I vote that we bring back the art of gently crossing our legs at the ankle when wearing a skirt and sitting in the front row of a group photo. Otherwise? Heeeelllllooooo Dolly!The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-1447474086345554352011-02-18T09:51:00.002-04:002011-02-18T09:56:46.892-04:00Chocolate Bacon CupcakesThat's not a typo. Last night, I made Chocolate Bacon Cupcakes and I even piped the icing on top. I'll admit that when I tried them last night, I didn't love them but I didn't hate them either. I made a few dozen of them so I decided to pack them up to share with my co-workers. <br /><br />I had an improptu cupcake party in my office at 8:20 am and those things were flying off the tray. I decided to try another one just to be social and OMG. They are delicious this morning. I guess they just needed to sit for awhile for the flavours to develop. <br /><br />So there you have it - Chocolate Bacon Cupcakes are delcious and will be made again. One more baking success in my pocket makes me want to continue the quest. I think I might try Vanilla Bean Coconut Cupcakes this weekend and I'm keeping my eye out for some sort of lime flavoured cupcake.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-91026399624837894662011-01-07T10:44:00.003-04:002011-01-07T10:56:20.169-04:00A Whole Lot of Nothing* Christmas was great! There was nothing earth-shattering that made it great. It was just calm and content.<br />* I started the Jillian <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Micheals</span> 20 Day Shred on December 30. I had been using the treadmill every single day for the about 3.5 months before I started the Shred so I thought I would have some endurance. Wrong! It is 20 minutes of pure hell and I almost threw up the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">first</span> day. It actually has gotten easier and I might just go crazy and try Level 2 today.<br />* I cannot get my act together today. I forgot to pick up my prescription that I needed for an early doctor's appointment. Then I took a wrong turn on the way there. I simply forgot where I was going.<br />* Much to someone <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">else's</span> chagrin, I'm bringing my suitcase upstairs tonight and I'm going to start packing. I know it seems a bit early (3 weeks from tomorrow) but I like the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">excitement</span> and anticipation.<br />* Why do short work weeks always seem to go by so slowly?The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-83759500344130099792010-12-23T08:22:00.004-04:002010-12-23T08:27:46.974-04:00Letters of the Holiday VarietyDear Christmas,<br /><br />This year for the first time in a number of years, I'm going to kick your ass this time...instead of the other way around.<br /><br />Love, S.<br />*************************************************************************************<br />Dear Bob Marley,<br /><br />I'm sorry but I'll be cancelling our "every second Christmas" date this year. I know you're disappointed but I will make it up to you in Jamaica in January. You'll also be happy to know I'm planning to keep my pants on for Christmas this year.<br /><br />Love, S.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-16182415697579025842010-12-20T15:14:00.002-04:002010-12-20T15:20:39.101-04:0010 Minutes in WalmartI can accomplish <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">alot</span> of things (and spend <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">alot</span> of money) in only 10 minutes in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Walmart</span>. I managed to following:<br />* spend $48.00<br />* saved a ton of cash <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">because</span> every single item was on sale<br />* got all the fixings I need for cocktails<br />* got almost all the fixings for appetizers<br />* splashed mud all up the side of my pants<br />* made 3 new old man friends. The first time they talk to you it's friendly, second time you're developing a relationship. By the time they say "Bye Dear and Have a Merry Christmas!" after speaking to you two other separate times in the store, you are officially <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">BFFs</span>. Three - I made 3 in 10 minutes. I'd say 4 but I'm not certain that the man standing so close that he touched my ass counts as a friend. Yet.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-26415161714257226542010-12-15T13:09:00.002-04:002010-12-15T13:20:13.070-04:00She's a Wheel Watcher!My daughter is a creature of habit. Every day she watches the same shows. Actually, she rarely watches anything that is not broadcast on channel 252. She doesn't get that from me, I tell you. I'm a channel flipper. I'm always afraid I'm missing something better on another channel. <br />Every night for the past 2 or so years, the Littlest Princess has watched <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ICarly</span> at 7 pm in her bedroom. That changed on Monday night. <br />Monday night, she walked into the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">livingroom</span> and saw that Wheel of Fortune on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">tv</span> and said "Mind if I watch with you?" She sat down and after a few seconds proclaimed how much she loved the show and proceeded to watch the whole thing. Last night at 7 pm I said "It's time to snuggle down and watch your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">tv</span> in your room." She said "Okay, can I watch that Wheel of Jeopardy show again?" I told her she could certainly watch Wheel of Fortune if she wanted. I also asked if she wanted me to watch with her. She said it didn't matter to her but she was watching in her room. Fine the, Miss <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Thang</span>!<br />I did go watch the show with her and at one point she turned to me and said "That woman looks like an idiot walking back and forth in front of the words." I asked her please not to call people names and idiot is not an nice word. Then I solved the puzzle.<br />I think itis a crack up that my 7 year old loves Wheel of Fortune. Just wait until she turns 8. Then it'll be no more Mrs Nice-Mommy when it comes to playing. She has roughly 8+ months to hone her "Wheel Skills" before I unleash my full competitiveness.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-90811517131682113282010-12-09T13:16:00.004-04:002010-12-09T14:17:15.181-04:00You Don't Think You're a Bully?!?!?!I stumbled across <a href="http://www.marieclaire.com/sex-love/dating-blog/overweight-couples-on-television">this article </a>when I was reading a blog that Jay has link to her blog. The entire article is completely and utterly offensive. But what makes me shake my head is that the woman who wrote the article doesn't think she's being a bully or offensive! I don't feel I need to comment on this much further. The bitch speaks for herself.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-1403728124923211682010-12-06T09:48:00.002-04:002010-12-06T09:58:51.919-04:00Goodbye, BuddyToday is a sad day. I have to put my dog to sleep this afternoon. Oliver has been "mine" since the day I brought him home and a cute little black lab puppy. The dog stayed with my ex-husband when we split up because I thought it was the best thing for Oliver and for my daughter. But I still love him and today is a terrible day. <br />Apparently, he hasn't been eating and took a turn for the worse over the weekend. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">XH</span> told me about it yesterday and we both agreed that we needed to put him out of his misery. The call was made to the vet this morning and we go at 1:30. I hate to see the end but, to be honest, I wish the appointment was earlier. I guess Oliver couldn't even get up on his own the morning. He has been such an amazing dog and I just don't want him to suffer a minute longer. I saw him yesterday and the suffering was so clear in his eyes. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">XH</span> will take him to the vet, I will meet them there, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">XH</span> will leave and I will stay with Oliver. I'll make sure he knows we love him and that he was the best companion we could ask for, I will wrap my arms around him, put my face close to his, and hold him until he is gone.<br />Today is a sad day but at least Oliver's suffering will end. Thanks for being such a good friend, Buddy.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-81030760200824234022010-12-02T14:08:00.002-04:002010-12-02T14:18:52.888-04:00We Have a Plan and High HopesMonday morning was cold and I really, really dislike the cold. As the Littlest Princess and I were getting in the car I said "That's it! I've had enough!". <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">JJ</span> said "Had enough of what, Momma?" I said "Winter and cold! I have plan. I'm going to win the lottery, quit my job and you're going to quit school. We are going to move a warm tropical place, I'll hire a teacher to teach you while we play on the beach." To which <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">JJ</span> said "Mom a warm tropical place would be Florida." I replied "Actually there are lots of countries that are warm all year round." She said "Like Hawaii! Let's live in Hawaii." SOLD! Then I said "You can learn about whatever you want with your private teacher. If you see a dolphin in the surf, you can ask to learn about dolphins. " <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">JJ</span> said "So we'll be rich, right?" and I said "Yes, very." The Littlest Princess said "Can I have a pony?" and I said "Sure and we'll hire someone to scoop the pony poop too. Because we'll be rich." Then came the bubble <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">burster</span> "Momma, how do we win the lottery?" Sigh, good feelings gone. I had to explain that we will probably never win the lottery. She was alright with it. I'm pretty sure she thought I was nuts from the minute the conversation started anyway. She is a good sport. If we win, I'll buy her 2 ponies just for putting up with her crazy, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">delusional</span> mother.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-49124687707298080162010-11-29T15:15:00.004-04:002010-11-29T15:37:06.199-04:00Here's a Tip for You.....Historically, I have not tipped at Tim Horton's. I just didn't feel it was necessary. I'm usually a pretty good tipper. I would even go as far as to say I over tip. A few months ago, I started to let them keep my change at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Tims</span>. Do I really need that extra $0.50? <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">However</span>, as of today, I am officially back to not tipping at Tim <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Hortons</span>. Over the past week I have received some good reminders of why I didn't tip there in the first place. Here are just a few of the examples:<br /><br />* I was sitting in the drive-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">thru</span> waiting for my coffee and right in front of me one cashier was loudly telling another how she flirts with men to get bigger tips. I was not inclined to believe it worked for her as it appeared she had been repeatedly beaten with an ugly stick. But really, I find it offensive that she was talking like that in front of customers.<br />* Again in the drive-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">thru</span>, I pulled up to the window and gave the girl a shiny loony and 3 quarters ($1.75) for my order that came to $1.34. I also smiled and said "That's great, thanks." My coffee was sitting in the window getting cold while she counted out her tip and put in her her tip jar. The next time you see that I've handed you more than the cost and said thanks give me my damn coffee instead of counting your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">f'ing</span> tips while I wait.<br />* Today. Today took the cake. My order came to around $1.50 and I gave the guy a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">toonie</span> ($2). He looked at me and said "Do you want your change?" I looked and him and just shook my head no. I was seething and in my head I was shouting "Yes, I want my change, you uncle fucker!. That is far too presumptuous for my taste. I find it very offensive that he would assume he could keep the change.<br /><br />So that's it for me. I'm done tipping at Tim <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Hortons</span>. From now on I want my change. I want every red cent of it. Every stinking penny. You want more money? Then earn it.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-46803129002775862202010-11-22T19:44:00.002-04:002010-11-22T19:50:13.714-04:00Down the TubesI was on the road for work today (awful driving weather - <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">incase</span> you were wondering) and I stopped at Tim's for a pee and a coffee in the morning. I went into the stall to complete my task and all of a sudden my cell phone was falling. I watched in horror as is fell towards the toilet bowl. But, low and behold, it missed falling in the flush by JUST a fraction and tumbled on the floor. I was so relieved. You'd think that I would be concerned that my work phone has almost fallen in the flush, been ruined, and would cost someone to replace it. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Nuh</span> uh, my biggest concern was that I might have to fish that thing out of the water. I was actually debating, if it had fallen in, could I just left in there and explained what happened? I guess we'll never know. Actually given my clumsy tendencies, we might find at some point.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-13398151372655199882010-11-19T12:42:00.002-04:002010-11-19T12:50:35.327-04:00For the Love of DonutsMy love of donuts is just not natural. It's funny because I'm not really a "sweets person" but I have a weakness for donuts. I stopped at Tim's on my way back to work for coffee and a donut. Fine, I got 2 of them. Whatever. I was eating my donuts while driving in the sunshine. I turned on the radio and lo and behold a song from Dirty Dancing was playing. What more could I ask for? Well <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">alot</span> actually. But you have to be thankful for the small things too, right? For the record, I'm going to be thankful for that pizza and sangria later. <br />But back to the donuts! So, I'm pretty certain that I could eat a dozen Tim Horton's donuts in one sitting. I'm not fussy about the kind unless it's one of those old fashioned plain. I mean really, what is the good of a donut with no sugar?? My self-respect and, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">probably</span> more so, my guilt keep me from attempting to eat 12 in one sitting. But let's be honest here, if it was presented as a challenge or a bet and someone gave me the donuts -it would be on! Because my competitive nature would absolutely crush any guilt.<br /><br />I love donuts. And asparagus - guilt satisfied.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28090555.post-91909521236334840422010-11-16T10:14:00.002-04:002010-11-16T10:20:26.378-04:00Can't Handle It AnymoreI've been trying very hard not to be such a complainer lately. Okay, well it's not so much complaining as much as feeling a need to point out the dumbness in the world. In any case, I've been trying to stop. Really I have. But I can't handle this one any longer. I have to point out that ear infections are not contagious. Yeah, I know some thing that are contagious can lead to ear infections. I get that. But getting close to someone with an ear infection is not going to spawn an immediate ear infection in you. It's not the the freaking Ebola virus. OMG. Okay, I'm done - back to being nice.The Original Princesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06051978980776359037noreply@blogger.com1