A Full Social Calendar Gets Fuller

As we continue through this summer (and lets face it for those of us in the Northeast, it hasn't been much of a summer), it's hard to believe we're going into August. This year has zipped by with incredible speed and, as the year progresses, as per usual, my social calender continues to get fuller and fuller. It didn't help when I read this article this morning: http://www.examiner.com/x-18067-NY-Budget-Hotel-Travel-Examiner~y2009m7d30-Planning-your-2009-Holiday-Trip-to-New-York-City--Ideas-and-Suggestions-for-Sightseeing-and-Hotels which is all about the holidays in NYC and in turn reminded me of all my upcoming events.

Soon I will be doing my yearly mad dash to go shopping for outfits for various holiday occasions, and, accepting invitations to parties and other events that I have not already RSVPed. Slowly but, surely the stores are beginning to get their Fall clothing lines in and, coats are beginning to replace swimsuits in the seasonal departments. I have noticed puffed sleeves seem to be making a come back. A good balance for those of us not build like boys who have curves but, are by no stretch of the imagination overweight or fat. And, no that isn't a dig at anyone overweight, I've been battling the bugle all my life and, it's a daily struggle to maintain my size 8 to size 10 dress size. Believe me, I've ballooned as high as a size 22 and have never been smaller than a 6. However, I digress to my point of why certain mainstream designers refuse to cut their outfits for women who are as flat as ironing boards without a butt or bust to speak of... In a society where the average woman is a size 14, it makes absolutely no sense. I'm sure many of you feel my frustrations...

Well, Im off to the NJ shore for the weekend, Atlantic City to be specific. So until next week, stay cool!

It's ACES - NYC to Atlantic City by Train

I've often complained that New Jersey should have a train from NYC to Atlantic City. Imagine my surprise when I found out about the ACES train: http://www.acestrain.com/ it just started in February and it is run by AMTRAK, and, I will be experiencing it in about two weeks.

It takes approximately 2.5 hours from NYC to Atlantic City, and, there are only two pick up points. The first is Penn Station in NYC and the second is Penn Station in Newark - and then you are off to AC.

If you've ever been stuck on the Garden State Parkway, you'll understand my excitement over being able to take the train instead of sitting in a line of endless traffic! The only drawback is that the train only runs on Saturday and Sunday. I'm hoping against hope that it turns out to be a huge success and that they start offering daily service. It is a welcome alternative to driving myself or taking the "blue hair express" (Atlantic City Express Buses filled with little old ladies with their hair dyed blue.)

I'll report on the experience when I return.

155 Days Until Christmas

I don't know why but, I'm particularly fixated on Christmas and the Holidays this year. It's been a long, long, long time since I've actually looked forward to the holidays, so, this is a bit strange for me. The holidays have long been the saddest, most depressing part of the year for me, however, I am accepting my change in attitude and will be ready to welcome the season when it gets here.

It's funny, until a year ago, summer was always my favorite time of year but, for some reason, this year, Autumn and the holidays can't get here fast enough for me. I know I have a fairly busy social calendar this year. That could be part of it but, I doubt it. This is no busier than past years - there is no one special in my life - I have no children. So nothing logical is explaining why this change in heart.

I actually want to buy a Christmas tree and decorate this year. I want to make Christmas cookies. I want my apartment filled with friends and family.

So in the spirit of the holiday, I'd like to offer you all this coupon: http://www.christmastreesny.org/images/coupons.pdf

And you'll be able to see the list of participating farms later in the year here:
http://www.christmastreesny.org/

Spa Appointments

Like many women I know, given the state of the economy, cutting back on non-essentials like going to a Spa are becoming more and more common place. My job is solid, I didn't get involved with a high risk mortgage, and, I'm doing "ok" financially, but, I still am cutting back on expenses because of the "what if" factor.

Of course, there are certain things I won't give up - like a good hair cut, but, I'm more than willing to forgo the truly unnecessary treatments like massages. I realize that for some people a massage is a medical necessity and I'm not referring to someone who needs it for that reason, I'm just saying for me - it's a non-essential. A facial, well, I'll cut back to special occasion for that one - at $120 plus tax and tip, it's certainly something I can live without, but, then again it is something I can afford to treat myself to once in a while - especially when a special occasion arises and I need to look my very best.

However, I will not give up my yearly birthday treat - when I give myself a full day at the spa - in other words - the works! Sure it's $400 + but heck, I have no kids, no husband, and, I might as well take care of me with my money. And, it's only once a year...

Are September and October the new "June" for Weddings?

Say June and most people think of warmer weather, the end of the school year, and, of course, weddings. Strangely enough, I did not attend one June wedding this year, and, in turn, my usually quiet (for weddings) September and October are nearly completely booked. One weekend, I literally will be attending a Friday evening, a Saturday, and a Sunday wedding - different parties of course. Luckily, they are all within 100 miles of each other.

People often ask if I mind going to a wedding as a single in her 40s. The answer is no. What most well-meaning friends and strangers don't seem to understand is that I enjoy being single. And, therefore, I do not feel bad or like I've "missed" something never having walked down the aisle myself.

On many levels, I can understand the appeal of a late summer/early autumn wedding. In my younger years, I would have shuttered at the idea - I had always thought if I ever did get married I would select June. However, as I've matured and experienced life - I think autumn is indeed a wise choice. Mother Nature provides a glorious backdrop of color making otherwise routine photos more interesting. The bride has more flexibility in selecting colors for her wedding scheme. And, it also offers the chance to broaden the menu for the reception.

What remains interesting is how the popularity of the months have switched - and in fact, August has now become one of the most popular months. I'm not sure how or why other months are becoming as popular or possibility even more popular than June but, I have an idea that it has to do with being an individual and not following the pack.

Regardless, I wish all the brides and grooms to be the best of luck in their futures. And, I look forward to the respective weddings I will be attending this Fall.

21 Club - Yes there IS a dress code

Once again the idiots of the world continue to make their way to NYC. I was on http://www.opentable.com making reservations for 21 Club. Having been to this restaurant many, many times I know what to expect and how to dress. I will add this restaurant has never disappointed me.

I noticed the reviews section, and, decided to see what others had to say. Overall, the reviews are positive, and, then I reached this one:

"I was upset with 21 Club because I booked my reservations online, booked 3 broadway shows online, and booked my hotel and flight all online. I was set to see "Wicked" and dine at 21 Club before. My daughter and I were in NYC on a mother-daughter trip, to try to forget that my 34 year old son died in his sleep in March. We planned our whole trip around this one awesome dinner reservation. We were running late, called and moved our time 1 hour ahead, and showered, dressed, and hailed a cab. We arrived at the club and were told we were not admitted because we were underdressed. I was never so insulted in all my life. We looked fine. and when you are seated, no one can tell whether you have on a skirt, or dress shorts. Post DRESS CLOTHES online"

TO THIS I REPLY:

Well DUH! Here's the link to the dress code: http://www.21club.com/web/onyc/hours.jsp

I don't buy this woman's excuse for a minute. She was certainly up for a good enough time to book the trip and go to some shows, therefore, the excuse she was upset about her son's death isn't going to fly with me.

This is just another example of idiots taking over the United States. All this woman had to do was click the "21 Club" link and scroll down to "Hours and Dress Code"

Now exactly what is unclear about this request, taken directly from the 21 website?

Attire/Dress Code

Bar Room, Upstairs at '21', Cocktail Lounge & Wine Cellar: Jeans and sneakers are not permitted. Jackets are necessary for gentlemen with ties preferred at dinner.

I mean come on! If Jackets are necessary for gentleman, on what planet does that mean women in shorts - even if they are dress shorts - would be acceptable? Ok, one exception to the rule MIGHT be Bermuda, however, this is NYC and NOT Bermuda!

And, yes, surprise, surprise, dress codes are enforced.

Had this woman been allowed in, regardless of how she was dressed, I am positive she would have complained about 21 being too snooty or stiff. I've seen this type in action once too often to know what she is all about without ever having met her.

Click here for the review above, as well as other reviews

Back to Work on Wednesday - Finally

Well solitary confinement is over, I received the ok to return to work tomorrow from my doctor. While I did truly need last week off to recover, I felt well enough to return to work yesterday. So, I am finally returning to work.

Call me strange but I do enjoy my job. I am fortunate not to have a boring job, and, each and every day holds something new so it never gets stale. One day I might be trying to win a new client over for my company, the next I might be talking to a charity for a joint project, and, the next might find me on the phone all day scheduling appointments.

Is this a sign I am ready for a change?

In an attempt to keep my sanity as I have a few more days rest before returning to work, I decided to tackle my closet, and, sort through some things. I don't know about the rest of you, but, I seem to hang on to things that I know I will never wear again. For example, I have a business suit, clearly from the late 1980s or very early 1990s, it is so grossly out of style, I just had to try it on. I shocked myself - it still fit! But, into the Goodwill pile it went.

I really put my heart and soul into sorting clothes this time, and, my closet is now half empty. This is not a bad thing - it's time for me to update my wardrobe and go shopping. I think I wrote in a much earlier entry that I force myself to give something away when I buy something new, well, now I have a great excuse to go shopping!

I also sorted through draws, found 6 pair of mix matched socks, into the Goodwill pile for them as well. And, I even went as far as my linen closet, and, cleaned that out too.

Is this a sign I'm ready for some type of change in my life? Do I subconsciously know on some level that someone new might be entering my life? Maybe there is a move in my future? Or is it simply a case of out with the old and in with the new? Or is it the dull answer - I'm bored silly?

Regardless, it has me thinking - why do we hang on to certain items? For example, I have a Minnie Mouse watch that I got when I was 5 or 6 years old. There isn't anything particularly great about the watch. It hasn't worked in years. And, I doubt it will ever be a collector's piece - it's pretty cheesy, and, there really isn't any sentimental value associated with it. I keep thinking I should just get rid of it but, yet I can't... The question is why?

Well, enough of that - on to my shoes, and, my day of closet cleansing will be complete!

Couture Fashion Week in NYC

Well, the doctor wants me to take a few more days off before returning to work. I'm on the mend but, he wants me to gain some strength back before attempting to start my daily grind.

In the meantime, I've had a very nice opportunity to attend Couture Fashion Week the weekend of September 11 - 13. Since it is an invitation that includes VIP seating with the chance to meet the models and designers backstage, I am jumping at the chance. The event is being held at the Waldorf-Astoria. While my invite includes the Couture Fashion Week Ball on Saturday evening, I may pass on the ball. I don't really enjoy that type of event, not the dressing part, but, the social/networking part. I do enough of that during the week, I certainly don't want to do that during the weekend during my down time. And, since I'm not really involved in the fashion world, it would not be something that would help my career. (Not to mention I don't want to look like a beached whale in my size 8 dress next to size 0 - 4 models).

Models never cease to amaze me. I exercise (hard) for at least one hour every day when I am not sick - aerobics, pilates, running. I faithfully keep myself in the 1300 - 1500 calorie range daily. And, while I'm thin - I can't imagine taking myself down to 1000 - 1100 calories and doing twice the exercise daily to have a model's body.

I've always had a lot of respect for models. Oh sure, there are those who think they are brainless and they get paid tons of money for a few minutes work but, of the models I've met personally - I've found very bright, hard working women who don't deserve the sneers and jeers that often come with the job.

But, I digress - I'm looking forward to the event. See you at fashion week!

The Nutcracker - Sweet!

As I continue to recover from my bout with pneumonia, friends keep creeping out of the woodwork, checking in on me and, asking me to join them in different activities. Last night I was very pleasantly surprised to hear from an old friend whom I haven't seen in two years. He has moved back to the NYC area, and, after chit-chatting for about an hour, we firmed our tentative date for me to join him in December for a performance of The Nutcracker. I adore Lincoln Center and ballet, so, of course, my answer was an immediate yes.

I was a bit stunned when I told a co-worker about the date, and, she wasn't familiar with the The Nutcracker story. I thought it was as common knowledge as the story of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. The basic story is that it is Christmas eve, and, a little girl is given a Nutcracker as a present, and, in a dream sequence, toys comes to life. For a full description of the story, I recommend this link: http://www.nycballet.com/nutcracker/read.html (simply click on the book and then click the book each time you are ready to go to the next page. Note that flash is required to view the book)

So this is yet another event I have added to my social calendar. I guess I am rushing the summer a bit, but, I am very anxious to see the dresses that will be available for the Fall, Winter, and, of course, the holidays in 2009. I'm thinking of velvet - it's classic after all, and, it is certainly something I will wear more than once. That isn't to imply I don't already own a velvet dress, truth be told, I own 3 (one in red, one black and one in navy) but, if I can find something that "wows" me, then I will buy it for this occasion.

There is something extremely fun and festive about going to The Nutcracker. Children running about in outfits I am sure they will wear for Christmas Day. Men in suits and tuxedos. Ladies in cocktail dresses, some in full gowns.

We're also discussing where we are going to have dinner that evening. Picholine? The Grand Tier? Arpeggio? Or perhaps something entirely different.

Of course, we will be taking our mandatory photos of the Lincoln Center Christmas tree when we are there. The one shown is from a few years past. While not as famous as it's Rockefeller Center counter part - The Lincoln Center Tree does have some ceremony with it. When the 2009 information becomes available, I will be sure to provide it. If it follows past tradition, it should be on Monday, November 30, 2009, however, as I already stated, I will post the correct information when it becomes available.

With that, I see it is time for me to get ready for my doctor's appointment, and, I will wish you a wonderful Saturday.

Hats one of the top 10 Fall "Must Haves" According Elle

To the nitwit who didn't like my entry yesterday. If you don't like my opinions, then don't bother reading this blog. If I was looking for "hits" for this site, I'd be showing girls taking off their clothes!!
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Well, week one of my bed-side recover is drawing to a close, I go to the doctor tomorrow to see if I can go to work on Monday. In the meantime, I continue to be bored out of my mind. And so today, I figured I would find out what fashion trends for Fall, 2009 we can expect to see.
Much to my pleasant surprise - HATS! Yes, according to Elle Magazine, we can expect to see hats: http://www.elle.com/Fashion/Fashion-Spotlight/TOP-10-TRENDS-NEW-YORK-FALL-2009/Top-10-Trends-New-York-Fall-20094

I happen to love hats, and, it's a shame they went out of style for so long. It's a fun accessory that nearly anyone can wear and your size or shape does not effect who can wear hats.

Other Fall trends for 2009 we can expect to see include:

• Colors: http://www.fashiontrendsetter.com/content/fashion_events/premiere_vision/Premiere-Vision-Color-Trends-AW-09-10.html
• Hair to extremes (very short to long): http://www.fashionising.com/trends/blog--Hair-23-1.html
• Really, Really High Boots: http://www.fashionising.com/trends/blog--Shoes-25-1.html
• Red Lipstick - http://www.fashionising.com/trends/blog--Make-up-24-1.html
  

And, of course, your own sense of style will be your best guide to setting you apart from everyone else. That's one thing I love about NYC. You see it all - high fashion, low fashion and no fashion!

Well I will the rest to the pros but, just thought I'd share what I found today. I am eagerly waiting to begin Fall clothes shopping, and, preparing for my busy Fall social calendar.

Enjoy your weekend!

Are you as tired of stupid people as I am?

Well the title of today's entry says it all. My question is "Are you as tired of stupid people as I am?" I mean really and truly - the dumbing down of America continues...

So here I am, stuck in bed fighting off pneumonia. Since I live in NYC one of the great conveniences I have at my disposal is the ability to place an entire order from the grocery store, and, have it delivered. I've done this on other occasions when I was either sick with a bad cold or running very late and simply didn't have time. So I placed my order, and, the delivery man came when I was ready to give him his tip, I realized I didn't have anything smaller than a $50 bill. So I asked him if he was able to make change and he said "I think so". Please note two important factors here: I said delivery man (he was easily into his late 40s or early 50s) and the other important fact here is that the reply was "I think so".

Turns out this man did NOT know how to make change, and, had I been a less honest person, could have robbed this guy blind. This man clearly at least finished high school, possibly even had some college because he was able to hold an intelligent conversation. And, I suspect he was delivering groceries either to supplement another job or it is the best he could do at the moment given the economy.

It is a sad and scary state that a man well into his 40s could not make change. And, he is not a limited case. No longer do cashiers in grocery or department stores need to be able to make change, the machine tells them exactly what is owed and what change should be returned to the customer. Even with that I've had clerks stare at me and even ask me to help them make change.

I'm amazed some people have enough brain power to remember how to breath! We are in deep trouble my friends, stupid people are everywhere these days.

Booked My Cruises for 2010 for July and December

Well, after discussing things over with family, we are now officially booked and deposited for two very wonderful cruises in 2010. It was a very, very hard decision to make, but, after careful deliberation, you will find me on the following two cruises:

July 2, 2010
9 Night Bermuda and Caribbean Cruise
Caribbean Princess

Day	Location	Arrival	Departure
Friday, July 2, 2010	New York, New York	--	05:00 PM
Saturday, July 3, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Sunday, July 4, 2010	Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
Monday, July 5, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Tuesday, July 6, 2010	San Juan, Puerto Rico	01:00 PM	11:00 PM
Wednesday, July 7, 2010	St. Thomas, U.s. Virgin Islands	07:00 AM	04:00 PM
Thursday, July 8, 2010	Grand Turk, Caicos Islands	01:00 PM	07:00 PM
Friday, July 9, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Saturday, July 10, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Sunday, July 11, 2010	New York, New York	07:15 AM	--

And the Christmas cruise may shock some of you. We decided to go with Cunard aboard Queen Mary 2. There were many factors in this decision but ultimately it is the best fit for those in my family who are joining me on this cruise.

December 19, 2010
15 Night Christmas Cruise
Cunard Queen Mary 2

Day	Location	Arrival	Departure
Sunday, December 19, 2010	New York	--	06:00 PM
Monday, December 20, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Tuesday, December 21, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Wednesday, December 22, 2010	Grand Turk	08:00 AM	01:00 PM
Thursday, December 23, 2010	Tortola	09:00 AM	06:00 PM
Friday, December 24, 2010	St Maarten	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Saturday, December 25, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Sunday, December 26, 2010	Curacao	09:00 AM	02:00 PM
Monday, December 27, 2010	Grenada	09:00 AM	06:00 PM
Tuesday, December 28, 2010	Barbados	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Wednesday, December 29, 2010	St Lucia	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Thursday, December 30, 2010	St Kitts	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Friday, December 31, 2010	St Thomas	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
Saturday, January 1, 2011	At Sea	--	--
Sunday, January 2, 2011	At Sea	--	--
Monday, January 3, 2011	New York	06:30 AM	--

Am I excited? Of course! It's been three years since I've been on a cruise and now I have two really good ones to look forward to enjoying in 2010. The best part? I don't have to fly! It's as simple as driving to Brooklyn to the cruise terminal for both sailings.

And the only repeat on the itineraries is St. Thomas which can easily be rendered by going to St. John instead.

Cabin selection? Well, of course, I am not giving my cabin number out, but, I didn't book the most expensive cabin nor did I book the least expensive cabin, and, I do have a balcony on both sailings.

Booking these trips has been more therapeutic than anything. I haven't given any thought to what's-his-name the cheater, and, somehow, I don't feel as under the weather with my battle with pneumonia as pro I've been researching, planning, and booking.

I've ordered my guide books from Amazon.com, and, should have those in hand tomorrow. Now I just have to figure out how to entertain myself the rest of the day. I HATE soap-operas, can't stomach another minute of CNN or any of the other 24 hour news stations (enough with Michael Jackson already, the man died, let him rest in peace), and, even though I love the Food Network, I can't take another episode of 30 minute meals!!

Time to pop another movie into the DVD player...

Planning ahead - November Birthday with Mr Big

While my birthday isn't until November, my special friend (my version of Carrie's Mr. Big from Sex and the City) has already informed me that theater tickets are in hand, a special hotel has been reserved, dinner reservations are in place, and, I'm getting a rare treat. He is taking the following day off from work, from his kids (who are hardly children at this point, his eldest is in college), and, I'm getting the best gift from him possible. Quality time.

If you are new to my blog - yes, I have my own real life Mr. Big (on again, off again) relationship and we've been in "friendship mode" for the past two years. And, even though this birthday will not be a romantic one, there is no one I'd rather spend my birthday with than my own Mr. Big. He has been one of the two constants in my life that I can count upon. And, if I am once again involved with someone else by the time my birthday rolls around - he'll just have to deal with it.

I'm certain I will not end up with Mr. Big (as Carrie did in the Sex and the City movie), but, I am certain we will be important parts of each others lives until the day we die.

Perhaps I'm more secure in myself than other women, but, I could never get bent out of shape about platonic male/female relationships. If a man has a woman friend before I enter the picture, why would I view her as competition? After all, if he wanted her, they'd already be dating...

Likewise, I don't like men who get bent out of shape over my platonic male friends for the very same reason. If we were going to date, it would have happened.

And, no I am not the trusting fool. I've been around men who actually had groupies throwing themselves at them. And, while temptation was always in their path, the guys with the groupies always went home to their steady better halves. And, yes, I know this as fact and not speculation on my part. The point being is if the relationship is solid then friends of the opposite sex should not be viewed as a threat.

So, therefore, let it be known my birthday weekend is being spent with my own Mr. Big. I will be at the Waldorf Astoria and have the pleasure of enjoying Billy Elliott. Dinner is yet to be announced but, I wouldn't be surprised if it was 21 or some other similar restaurant. Then on Sunday, I am being treated to brunch at Peacock Alley.

If you are unfamiliar with Sunday brunch at Peacock Alley, it is something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. You will no doubt gag at the $95 per person plus tax and tip pricing, but, then again, the buffet is simply incredible.

Oh yes, I know, there are those of you are skeptical and cynical (and very obliviously jealous) about the truthfulness of my blog, however, it is all very real. So to those of you who fall into this category, say what you want but, one special weekend in November as I am enjoying one of the most renowned hotels in the world, having dinner at one of the best restaurant in NYC, and, going to Tony Award winning Broadway show.

What will you be doing in Podunk, USA? Nothing? That's what I thought.

Yes, this blog is real and this is really my life. If you care to expand your horizons and elevate yourself, it could be your life too - you jealous, small minded, twit!

Wow what a response! Looks like Caribbean Princess and Explorer of the Seas!

Well you guys are overwhelming me, I didn't realize I had this much of a following and, I certainly didn't think anyone would respond either via the poll or via email.

THANK YOU to everyone who has taken the time to vote and who has emailed me with get better soon wishes and asking questions about me and the cruises I am planning. You really touched me!

While I'm keeping the poll open for several more days, right now you guys think I should maximize my vacation and take the 9 night Caribbean Princess cruise in July and the 14 night Christmas cruise on Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas. After analyzing everything, you are right, this way I can still carry a couple of days over to 2011, and, have some really wonderful vacations in 2010.

To answer two repeating question in the emails I am receiving... No, I am not a travel agent, and, no, I have no plans to make this a group cruise. While any of you are welcome to book the same sailings, the purpose is for vacation, and, not to play hook up on a cruise ship. So, if you are looking for group rates on these sailing, I would suggest contacting your own travel agent or the cruise lines directly. I am not in any way, shape or form trying to form a group here. I am merely telling my thought process and asked for your input regarding what you would do if you were in my situation.

That aside, thank you to those who are genuinely concerned about my health. Yes, I know pneumonia isn't anything to fool with, and, I promise I am taking my medicine faithfully. I'm in bed as I blog so, I'm certainly not stressing myself out. I am on doctor's orders not to even attempt going to work for at least one full week.

For those inquiring about me personally. Email me, I will not discuss my personal details publicly. If you are sincerely interested in getting to know me, then make the effort to at least email me. And please only email if you're serious. And, yes, I do have a photo but, I will only send it out to those who send their photo first.

To the guy who sent an email of his private area. Nice, but, you would have a much better chance if you had been serious with me from the start instead of acting like a horny teenager. Apology accepted but, I'm just not interested in someone without an ounce of class.

For the person who sent me the link to the article about the elderly man who died on a cruise with Norovirus. Thanks but that could have happened anywhere, it is not limited to cruise ships!

Well, I'm tired, that's all for now. Thanks again to those who took time to vote in my cruise question poll. You're helping me make the right decision with my vacation time!

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Help me decide vacation 2010

After another restless night (I was coughing and pretty much miserable all night), I started looking into the various cruises I might be taking in 2010. An idea came to me that perhaps I will take two different vacations in 2010 instead of one long vacation.

Here are the two cruises I am thinking about booking in July, 2010.

July 2, 2010 aboard Princess Cruise Line's "Caribbean Princess". This is a 9 night cruise to Bermuda and the Caribbean which sails round trip from NYC. Since the 4th of July falls on Sunday in 2010, that means Monday is the legal holiday (even for the post office and banks). I would be able to take a 9 night vacation and still only use 5 days of vacation time.

Here is the itinerary:

Day	Location	Arrival	Departure
Friday, July 2, 2010	New York, New York	--	05:00 PM
Saturday, July 3, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Sunday, July 4, 2010	Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
Monday, July 5, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Tuesday, July 6, 2010	San Juan, Puerto Rico	01:00 PM	11:00 PM
Wednesday, July 7, 2010	St. Thomas, U.s. Virgin Islands	07:00 AM	04:00 PM
Thursday, July 8, 2010	Grand Turk, Caicos Islands	01:00 PM	07:00 PM
Friday, July 9, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Saturday, July 10, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Sunday, July 11, 2010	New York, New York	07:15 AM	--

July 1, 2010 aboard Cunard Cruise Line's "Queen Mary 2". This is a 5 night cruise to New England and Canada also sailing round trip from NYC. Once again, since the 4th of July is Sunday, the 5th is the legal holiday, and, I would only need to take 3 days vacation.

And here is the itinerary for Cunard QM2:

Day	Location	Arrival	Departure
Thursday, July 1, 2010	New York	--	06:00 PM
Friday, July 2, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Saturday, July 3, 2010	Halifax	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
Sunday, July 4, 2010	Boston	12:00 PM	11:00 PM
Monday, July 5, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Tuesday, July 6, 2010	New York	07:00 AM	--

Interesting proposition. My family has been tossing around the idea of a Christmas cruise for 2010. Since everyone lives within 150 miles of NYC we are thinking about either taking Queen Mary 2 OR Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas.

Here is the Explorer of the Seas itinerary:

Day	Location	Arrival	Departure
Sunday, December 19, 2010	Cape Liberty, Bayonne, N.j.	--	04:00 PM
Monday, December 20, 2010	Cruising	--	--
Tuesday, December 21, 2010	Cruising	--	--
Wednesday, December 22, 2010	Labadee, Haiti	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
Thursday, December 23, 2010	Samana, Dominican Republic	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
Friday, December 24, 2010	Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
Saturday, December 25, 2010	Cruising	--	--
Sunday, December 26, 2010	Bridgetown, Barbados	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Monday, December 27, 2010	Roseau, Dominica	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Tuesday, December 28, 2010	St. Johns, Antigua	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
Wednesday, December 29, 2010	Philipsburg, St. Maarten	07:00 AM	05:00 PM
Thursday, December 30, 2010	Cruising	--	--
Friday, December 31, 2010	Cruising	--	--
Saturday, January 1, 2011	Cruising	--	--
Sunday, January 2, 2011	Cape Liberty, Bayonne, N.j.	07:00 AM	--

And here is the Queen Mary 2 Itinerary:

Sunday, December 19, 2010	New York	--	06:00 PM
Monday, December 20, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Tuesday, December 21, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Wednesday, December 22, 2010	Grand Turk	08:00 AM	01:00 PM
Thursday, December 23, 2010	Tortola	09:00 AM	06:00 PM
Friday, December 24, 2010	St Maarten	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Saturday, December 25, 2010	At Sea	--	--
Sunday, December 26, 2010	Curacao	09:00 AM	02:00 PM
Monday, December 27, 2010	Grenada	09:00 AM	06:00 PM
Tuesday, December 28, 2010	Barbados	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Wednesday, December 29, 2010	St Lucia	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Thursday, December 30, 2010	St Kitts	08:00 AM	06:00 PM
Friday, December 31, 2010	St Thomas	08:00 AM	05:00 PM
Saturday, January 1, 2011	At Sea	--	--
Sunday, January 2, 2011	At Sea	--	--
Monday, January 3, 2011	New York	06:30 AM	--

I am very fortunate that the company where I work automatically closes for the entire week between Christmas and New Year's so it's like a bonus week of vacation. And, other members of my family who are still in the work force and not retired also have this same great benefit with their respective companies.

Additionally, since Christmas falls on Saturday in 2010, that means my company will use December 24th as the holiday, and, therefore, the Christmas cruise will only cost me 4 vacation days on Royal Caribbean and 5 days on Cunard.

Vacation Carry Over

So, if I take the QM2 sailing in July, I will be able to carry an additional 2 to 3 days vacation into 2011 or no extra vacation days in 2011 if I select Caribbean Princess for the 4th of July in 2010 and QM2 for Christmas.

Confused yet? Help me decide! Vote in the poll (found in the upper right hand column)

On the right hand column you will see that I put up a poll. If you'd like to give your opinion of which you believe is the best vacation combination - based only on the choices I have presented, please take a moment to vote.

The polls is open for the next 10 days but, realistically, I'll probably book by next Monday or so.

So I Have Pneumonia, I'm Using My Time To Plan Vacation 2010

Well, I did to myself good this time - I went to my doctor after work. In a near panic he sent me for x-rays, I have pneumonia. Gee, and, I just didn't think things could get any better, now I get to stay home (I fought tooth and nail not to be admitted to a hospital) for the next week to two weeks to try to get healthy again.

The jerk had the nerve to send me flowers today. I refused them. I wonder if he realizes that I REALLY don't want anything more to do with him?!

So, what am I doing to entertain myself? Planning my next vacation of course! After thinking long and hard, I decided that next 4th of July I will be on a cruise. But, where? So many choices! Alaska has long been on my "bucket list" - I blame "The Love Boat", ever since I saw that episode of The Love Boat where they went to Alaska I wanted to go too. Then again, there are some really great cruises right out of the greater NYC area. Princess has a good one leaving on July 2, 2010 for 9 nights to Bermuda and the Caribbean. Then again, perhaps I will take my two weeks and take a cruise in Europe.

I have to tell you that it is my deepest hope that I am going with someone special and not just another vacation with my friends or family. Then again, a scenario like "Sleepless in Seattle" could be romantic... Think about it, meet on line (well ok she snail mailed him in the movie) but still the same concept, and, then picking a spot on the ship to finally rendezvous.

Yes guys, we girls, even at my age long for this type of romance. We also realize that most of you don't have a clue how to be romantic and that is why we get all bent out of shape when you just bring us flowers or send us a card for no reason. (I know girls, like that happens without some type of fight between you, right?) But, just imagine, out there, in cyber-space, perhaps there is that one guy who gets it.

The guy who is fit but doesn't live at the gym, who is good looking but isn't all about outward appearance, who has class, manners, oh hell - the whole package - afterall, I am daydreaming here. So why not go for everything? Yes, I want the impossible - are you out there??

I have a year to find out...

Yes I am fine, Yes I am ready to date someone else

I'm back at work today, I have an appointment with my doctor after work. I'm not feeling well at all but, I want to save the remainder of my sick days for the year since it's only July, and, I get a cold in October like clock-work.

The Spanish cheater has attempted to call no less than 2 dozen times, and, left half a dozen messages that he is sorry, that he simply gave in to the lust of the moment (and here's the best one - that he was longing to make love to me so badly, he gave in to his ex-girlfriend but pretended it was me the whole time.)

I checked my driver's license. Nope. I wan't born yesterday!

I have a lot to do today so this is a short entry. Bottom line - I am emotionally fine. And, yes, I am ready to meet someone new. To the person who emailed to ask if I might be interested in meeting him - send a photo, tell me about you, and, I will do the same. My email address is located on the upper right hand corner.

Yes, that goes for anyone else interested too. Emailing doesn't guarantee a date but it does guarantee a response.

Thanks

Que Sera Sera

Well, I have been home for one day, and, all I can say is "Que Sera Sera". I still can't cry or be mad or have any other emotion other than whatever will be, will be...

Strange? Perhaps, but, I've suffered deeper heartache than this in my past including having a true love commit suicide. I guess it's just all a matter of perspective. I guess somewhere deep down I knew it wasn't going work out - it's the only thing I can offer as an explanation as to why I'm not balling my eyes out right now.

As far as the guy the "other guy" (remember the one who I just wasn't into before and I let go just before flying off to Europe?) He's back and he still does not get it. I'm still just not into him, I doubt I will ever be into it, and, he continues to pursue me. I don't need this right now, but, still can't be mean or cruel to him.

Ok, I know, I know - I should consider myself extremely fortunate that I have a guy like that after me, especially since there are women out there who can't get a date with anyone. And, I should be grateful that I am lucky in the dating department that getting a date has never been a problem for me. However, it wouldn't be fair to me or the guy chasing me to lead him on and allow him to think he has a chance at a long term relationship with me. The chemistry just isn't there for me. I'm sorry if that sounds cruel and cold to some, but, if it isn't there, it isn't there. It's that simple.

Right now, all I want to do is get rid of this terrible cold. Get back to work and resume a more normal routine. I will continue to date when asked out, and, in the meantime, I will fall back on my friends as per usual in these cases.

At Heathrow Waiting to Fly to the USA

Well, here I am at Heathrow waiting for my flight home. This is NOT how this vacation was suppose to turn out. And to answer your question, yes, he has called over a dozen times, I didn't talk to him, but, he left messages pouring his heart out what a mistake it was and he wasn't sure why he did it. I'm not buying it.

In my 20s, heck, even in my 30s I would have been devastated by him cheating on me. I probably would have taken him back. However, I'm older, hopefully a bit wiser, and, I simply am not going to put up with this type of nonsense at this point in my life. I've been through far too much, and, I am certain someone better - more mature - is out there for me.

The only thing that has me really upset is my cold which is absolutely horrible. I thought about staying in London a few extra days to rest up, but, I'll feel better being in my own house, in my own bed.

I probably won't be posting tomorrow so I will wish those of you following this blog in the United States a Happy 4th of July. As for those in other countries, have a wonderful weekend. I'm off to get some soup or tea or something before boarding for my flight home starts.

PS - One bit of good news. He caught my cold! And, I hope he is feeling miserable complete with all the symptoms I've been suffering while he was out cheating on me!

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He is a cheat, I'm heading home and I still have a cold

I didn't think I would be blogging today, but, I'm actually writing from Barcelona Airport, waiting for a flight back to the States. While I was miserable for the past two days with one of the worst colds I've had in a while, guess who was out on dates with his ex-girlfriend? Oh yes, once again I have proven when it seems to good to be true, then it probably is too good to be true. So, I'm heading to London, and, getting a flight out in the morning.

Of course, I got that standard "it didn't mean anything" line, but, that's a little hard to believe when I walked in on them in a heavy lip lock and unclothed. Want to hear the dumbest thing of all? I don't know if it's because I'm doped up on cold medicine or what, but, I haven't cried, I didn't get mad, I'm just sort of - I don't know, perhaps, numb? Either that or deep down I just don't care, however, I don't think that was the case at all, I was truly falling in love with him.

I'm more upset that I'm flying again with a bad, bad cold which is now making it's way down to my chest which isn't good since I am prone to pneumonia when I get chest colds. So, I am going to go to London, get some more cold medicine, get dinner and get to sleep. Get on a plane tomorrow morning, go to my doctor to get something to knock this cold out of me. Probably cry at that point, and, once again begin my search for Mr. Maybe.

Any cute SINGLE guys in the NYC area who aren't cheats want to go out next weekend?

In Spain, with a cold and it's after midnight

I can't sleep. It's after midnight. I'm shivering (badly), I'm stuffed up, and, I am miserable. I insisted my love sleep in another room so he wouldn't get this cold, he's just getting over his but, I am miserable. Beyond miserable. Anyone want to keep me warm tonight so I don't reinfect my love?

No post

I'm really sick so I might not post for a day or two. Very, very bad cold this time - you name the symptom - I have it, worse than the one that I started out with. Not too close I'm contagious.