tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73947048900597586082024-03-08T07:31:53.363-08:00Travels of a Free SpiritPersonal musings by a gal living life in the moment, facing fears, and getting out of that proverbial comfort zone through travel, adventure, and every day experiences.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-7656628225551196242014-08-09T12:54:00.001-07:002014-08-09T12:54:08.693-07:00A Fresh StartHi everyone,<br />
In order to stay organized and consistent, I am moving all of my blog posts - travel and otherwise - to my personal website. It's just much easier to 'hang out' in one place than it is to have multiple outlets and sites on the go.<br />
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Travels of a Free Spirit will still be up for awhile until I think it's time to shut it down so take a gander of what I've been up to and find out where I'm going and what I'm doing next by going, <a href="http://www.aweedmark.com/blog/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Enjoy!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-69580302667980465542013-06-28T09:36:00.000-07:002014-05-05T09:33:27.349-07:00Toughin' It Out : Tough Mudder Whistler 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_AIPCbhsyQ/Uc26694-BYI/AAAAAAAAAsE/-U8lPeTIdIs/s750/Dan+and+Amanda+-+Tough+Mudder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_AIPCbhsyQ/Uc26694-BYI/AAAAAAAAAsE/-U8lPeTIdIs/s320/Dan+and+Amanda+-+Tough+Mudder.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photograph by Stephanie Martin, Seven Photography © 2013</span></i></div>
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<b><i>“Obstacles are placed in our way to see if what you want is really worth fighting for.”</i></b> </div>
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And the Tough Mudder orange head band was definitely one worth the fight.</div>
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Having trekked 18 kilometres through mountainous terrain and overcoming 20 mentally & physically enduring obstacles that included tanks of ice, trenches of mud, pools of water, walls of fire, or tall objects to climb…you now know that the coveted Tough Mudder orange head band means more than just showing up and crossing the electrically charged finish line. It represents mental grit, determination, and/or physical stamina. To me, it meant that and just a little bit more. <o:p></o:p></div>
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After four months of training 2-4 days a week with fitness coaches, I felt physically ready. My colleague, Dan, also decided to join me which helped eased any fears I had of running it alone.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RVpnJoffAQU/Uc2_KuhAtYI/AAAAAAAAAsU/r6WE7MkDcbk/s750/1014259_10152962206545177_393418398_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RVpnJoffAQU/Uc2_KuhAtYI/AAAAAAAAAsU/r6WE7MkDcbk/s320/1014259_10152962206545177_393418398_n.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photograph by Stephanie Martin, Seven Photography © 2013</span></i></div>
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On event day so many emotions and thoughts raced through my head; I was nervous, excited, and a little scared but quitting wasn't an option. I was at the point of no return and the best I could do was put one foot in front of the other and deal with whatever I was going to deal with when I got to them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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That’s exactly what happened when I got to the second obstacle, the Arctic Enema. Dan and I jumped into waist deep ice water but I couldn't get up the nerve to dunk my head under water, under a wood plank, to pass to the other side – despite Dan’s encouragement. I couldn't stay in any longer so I got out and broke down wondering how I would ever get through the rest of the course. My fellow Mudders, including Dan, expressed their support and not to worry about it. But of course, I was disappointed in the fact I wasn't able to follow through. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<i style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photograph by Stephanie Martin, Seven Photography © 2013</span></i></div>
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On our jog to the next obstacle, Dan gave me some great advice, “Forget that obstacle. Let’s get ready for the next one. You should never live life looking back because you’ll never see what’s in front of you at that moment.” Then I realized it wasn't just that obstacle I was looking back at, I had been looking back at many past mistakes wondering what I could have done different. It was as if at that moment, I turned around and started looking ahead of me and I was going to give the next obstacles my all.</div>
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The next 8 obstacles were challenging but luckily not as mentally taxing as the Arctic Enema. I finally felt like I was in a groove and had hit my stride…until I came to the Electric Eel. I had seen this one before near the start line and it didn’t look fun. A 20-foot long shallow pool of water with a multitude of live wires, just inches above that you had to crawl through. There was no way to avoid them. I was terrified. My head went to the scariest scenario I could imagine and stayed there. I could not mentally overcome the thought of being electrocuted in water and I broke down - again. At that point, I considered skipping it but I knew I would have regretted not pushing my limits. After all, that’s what we were there to do. I was then reminded of what my Grade 12 art teacher once told me when I went to him for advice about dropping out of art school; He said, “Look at all the work you did, and have done, to get to this point. Don’t throw it all away. At least get your diploma, then decide if that’s the direction you want to take.” Based on his advice, I stuck it out and became the graphic designer I am today.<o:p></o:p></div>
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While the Electric Eel may not have been as life-changing as that ‘art school’ moment, I knew that if I didn't do it I would have regretted not trying. So after 15 minutes and some coaching from Dan and a few of the Tough Mudder staff, I dove into the shallow pool of water and moved as fast as I could thinking that with each inch forward, I was that much closer to the end. On the other side, Dan was there to high five me and I felt I had just finished climbing the highest mountain. But then it hit me…that was just the half-way point.<o:p></o:p><br />
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With new-found confidence I pressed on, knowing I wouldn't have to tackle that one again. It could only get better from here. By that point, my mental grit was getting stronger but my physical body was taking a toll. Up steep inclines, hurdling over large tree roots, navigating miles of thigh-deep mud, I wondered how my body would hold up. Having gone from no physical challenge (aside from my training) to Tough Mudder, it was no surprise my body screamed at me to stop. Slowly but surely, I kept going. If Dan had to drag me across that finish line, I was going to get there. <o:p></o:p></div>
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A kilometer away from the finish, we could hear the music and crowds, I could smell the beer, I could feel the warmth of that orange head band across my forehead, but we still had one obstacle to pass before all that good stuff – Electroshock Therapy. Yes…more electrocution. Dan and I stood a few feet away arm-in-arm, looked at the end point, and ran like hell through the muddy pathway being stung by electric shocks. I even got elbowed in the face from the girl beside me being electrocuted but I didn't care. We finished!!<o:p></o:p><br />
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<i style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photograph by Stephanie Martin, Seven Photography © 2013</span></i></div>
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After exchanging a heartfelt hug and congratulations, we walked up to get our orange head band and throw back a refreshing free beer. We were also able to connect back up with our supporter, photographer, and friend Stephanie for some celebrations. We could finally relax and reflect on what we had to go through to get here; Demons were tackled, bruises were earned, new bonds of friendship were formed. In addition to that, Tough Mudder not only represented that achievement, it meant a shift in perspective, better physical health, and overcoming the notion this was something I could never do. It made me wonder how else I could surprise myself.</div>
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That, in itself, is always worth fighting for.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GtAB5AENuvU/Uc3AJ5TBuVI/AAAAAAAAAs0/Uh0gzOm8Z3Q/s750/1004405_10152962229220177_1905545642_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GtAB5AENuvU/Uc3AJ5TBuVI/AAAAAAAAAs0/Uh0gzOm8Z3Q/s320/1004405_10152962229220177_1905545642_n.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photograph by Stephanie Martin, Seven Photography © 2013</span></i></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">The black and blue aftermath... </span></span></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-64301750045881277082013-03-12T19:05:00.002-07:002013-03-12T19:16:31.896-07:00Am I Tough Enough?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ArySqrQ4waQ/UT_eXdMz8oI/AAAAAAAAAqU/F8o4igiCRXE/s1600/Mudder-Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ArySqrQ4waQ/UT_eXdMz8oI/AAAAAAAAAqU/F8o4igiCRXE/s400/Mudder-Cover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It feels like it was yesterday that I was preparing myself for a trip of a lifetime; finalizing my train itinerary, booking tickets to museums & galleries, trying not to over think and listen to that little voice in my head that said 'what exactly do you think you are doing?'<br />
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Well, it would appear I'm back in that place again. Although this time the focus isn't on a trip abroad but a physical and mental trip leading up to the toughest event on the planet; Tough Mudder.<br />
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While this was an event I broadly heard about through friends and colleagues, it never once entered my mind that I should, would, or could do it. I hated PE in high school, I dislike playing any kind of sport, and was far from - what one would call - athletic, so why the hell would I have any business or interest in such an event? As time passed though, I got a little more curious about it and realized this was not only an event to test ones physical abilities but mental ones as well. In essence, this was a challenge people took on to push themselves and face fears rather than do it for sport or to win a trophy for being the best. This fact, alone, intrigued me.<br />
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Could I train & live up to the challenge? Would I be disciplined enough? Would I face my fears & do it anyways? So...I registered! Now I have no choice.<br />
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Taking my trip last year was one of the best experiences of my life. Leading up to it, there was a lot of doubt & fear swirling about in my mind like a bad storm on the horizon. People around me said, 'Wow, I would never do that. Scary!' But, despite the voices, the fears, and all the reasons not to, I kept on. That, in itself, was a challenge. Actually being in Europe and living in the moment...that was the easy part!<br />
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And that's what it's all about isn't it? The expectations and anticipation are generally more scary than reality. If only we could hush those voices, doubts, and fears more often and listen to our hearts more. Where would that take us? How different would our lives be?<br />
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Well, I will find out eventually. A month into training for this new adventure, I am already wondering what it is I got myself into. After almost dying in my very first training session, having an unpleasant encounter with a trainer who thought I had no place being there, and friends who wonder why I would put myself through such torture, I have every reason to believe the little voice in my head that says 'Ok, enough. Time to get back to reality.' But that other voice says 'Keep going!'. And each time I do, it gets a little better. Surprisingly enough too, I'm actually enjoying the process of training, working towards something, and physically seeing the change in my body in the meantime. I can see why some get addicted!<br />
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Despite my optimism, I know training <i>will</i> get more intense and I will have many more reasons - I'm sure - to be discouraged and quit. But knowing what great things came from my trip abroad, I will carry that knowledge with me through Tough Mudder - or atleast leading up to it - and push through. This too shall pass so, again, it's time to make the most of the moment while it's here and peel back yet another layer of the onion to find out what lies just beneath the surface.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-77135180835516664692012-12-04T19:10:00.000-08:002013-01-05T10:49:14.723-08:00Order up!I'm happy to announce that Travels of a Free Spirit - Europe 2012 (the book) is ready for the world to see! Since landing in Vancouver, I have been plugging away at it slowly but surely and am excited to finally be able to share it with you. <br />
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The design approach was to take my audience on a 'journey' through the book as if they were travelling with me through Europe; Moving, experiencing, discovering, and uncovering. To achieve this, I kept the design clean and simple with focus on large photographs and journal entries. Can't forget the lovely white space I weaved in there to give ones eye a break and the supporting quotes to further inspire a potential journey of your own.<br />
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Creating this one has inspired me to create more photobooks that capture a more unique perspective of life so we'll see what other editions I decide to put out there in 2013.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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To purchase, please follow this link:<br />
<a href="http://www.blurb.ca/bookstore/detail/3831883">http://www.blurb.ca/bookstore/detail/3831883</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.blurb.ca/bookstore/detail/3831883?ce=blurb_ew&utm_source=widget" style="margin: 12px 3px;" target="_blank">Travels of a Free Spirit - Europe 2012 (hardcover) by Amanda Weedmark</a> | <a href="http://www.blurb.ca/landing_pages/bookshow?ce=blurb_ew&utm_source=widget" style="margin: 12px 3px;" target="_blank">Make Your Own Book</a></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-39324337285332035672012-08-13T20:56:00.000-07:002012-08-13T20:58:15.791-07:00Happy New Year!While some people's "fresh start" comes with ringing in a new year, mine will come with my one year anniversary of being single - which happens to fall a couple of days after my birthday. And yes, I'll be celebrating - damn skippy! - but I'll also be reflecting on the year that has past and the year ahead.<br />
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At the beginning of my "new year", I was in a hole so deep, I sought therapy to try to get out of it. My heart had been shattered along with my hopes, dreams, and my direction. Who was I? What was I going to do with the rest of my life? How will I survive without my life partner? When you lose someone you consider to be your best friend and who you hold so closely to your heart, it feels like the world as you know it, has just ended. <br />
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As the months went by, I slowly picked up the pieces and (as you know) I decided that this would be the year that I would explore, make bad decisions, take risks, try new things, and get out of my comfort zone - along with getting out of my own way. Reflecting on that year, I can see where all of that has taken me, all it has taught me, all of the people it has opened me up to. From terrible choices and shameful mistakes (which I will not publicize) to euphoria's and moments of pride & gratitude, I have finally got back the person I had <i>really</i> lost...me. <br />
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Of course this anniversary, makes me think of my ex - who (according to a source) is happily in a new relationship. They seem to be a lot more compatible than we ever were too. Had this been months ago, I would have wondered "why not me?" but now I can't help but say "I'm truly happy for them." Being out in the dating world, I know the challenges of finding someone who you click with and is looking for the same things you are in life so I can honestly say, "Good for them" without being snide or hateful. I never thought I'd feel that way - EVER - so it's nice to know I'm moving past the hurt I once felt and wishing him the best in life. That comes with knowing who you are, what you really want, and of course, time. Had we met now, I hate to say, I probably wouldn't pursue a relationship with him due to the fact we want & need different things. Hindsight's a bitch.<br />
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I also realized, I didn't have to become single to do the
things I wanted to do. Nor does anyone. I just had to be brave enough to choose it, to take the steps to achieve it, to not let anyone stop me. It's a tough thing to seize moments that you have always feared to face. I was lucky enough to get that window of opportunity.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"Sometimes we are forced in a direction we ought to have found on our own. What we do, does not define who we are. What defines us is how well we rise after falling." </i></span></div>
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So with this new year, I will ring it in with some good cheer, good friends & family, and with a whole new list of things to do, see, and learn.<br />
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The biggest epiphany of the year: Sometimes our biggest hurts are our best lessons.<br />
And that life is one big irony.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-90951246931539092242012-07-04T20:41:00.004-07:002012-07-04T20:43:12.824-07:00Travels of a Free Spirit : The BookSince landing in
Gastown a few weeks ago, it has been a whirlwind of adventure and exploration. The European traveller in me has been reawakened and I am thoroughly enjoying
the perks of being so close to so many amenities and friends, and truly appreciating my short, 10-minute walk to
work.<br />
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While my weekdays are mostly filled with work, my evenings (during the week) are open to exploring the neighbourhood, shopping, sitting in cafes. My weekends tend to be a little more lively, venturing to other parts of Vancouver, having dinners, drinks, and letting lose at a dance club with friends. Life as a local is so carefree, simple, spontaneous; Everything my free spirit could have asked for.<br />
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With the spare time I have, I will be concentrating my efforts on a travel book that is a compilation of my journal entries, blog posts, and photos. And if all goes well with this one, I hope to create a Gastown edition.<br />
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But for now, here is a sneak peak of the intro page of the Europe 2012 book.<br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-29831317282645763822012-06-17T22:36:00.003-07:002012-06-17T22:38:41.332-07:00Home sweet homeThere was a time not so long ago where I never felt settled in my home life. I never felt like I could kick my shoes off and relax the way I really wanted to, have friends over when I wanted, decorate how I wanted. The places I rented always felt "borrowed" and temporary - as if any minute we'd be picking up and moving somewhere else.<br />
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I absolutely hated this feeling. <br />
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I remember last spring I woke up one morning and said to my ex, "Let's get rid of everything and start fresh." Of course he didn't feel the same and felt it was wasteful or, worse, crazy. My justification was, "We'd be donating or selling everything so we really had nothing to lose." He still didn't get why we needed to put ourselves through all that hassle. Then again, he was always the logical (safe) one. Whereas me...well, I have crazy ideas and tend to follow them. In art class (for example), I would spend hours on a painting, see it to completion, and then white wash it so I could start again. For the record, my second "go" was far better than the first.<br />
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But I digress...<br />
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My point of view at the time was that the furniture we had been using, came from relationships past - hand-me-downs from a time when we didn't have the cash to buy something WE liked. We were older now, years into the relationship, and had some cash reserves in the bank. I felt it was about time to start building our home life the way we wanted. Unfortunately (or fortunately) we never got there.<br />
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Funny enough though, a year later, I still felt that need of cleansing myself and starting from scratch. So I did and decided Gastown would be where I settled. Not only is it minutes from work but it's around the corner from some of the best eating, drinking, and shopping spots in town. I start to wonder why I didn't do it before. But I know why I didn't and it's ok. The point is, I'm here now and I can't put to words how amazing it feels to be in a place that suits me so well. From the cobblestone streets to the colourful characters who roam those same streets, nothing has felt more right. It's eclectic, it's artistic, it's vibrant, it's home. Finally.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-6816138734775064282012-06-12T22:20:00.002-07:002012-06-12T22:27:54.989-07:00One step at a timeIn Europe I was taught to put one foot in front of the other instead of my usual pace of jumping leaps and bounds. There was really no other option but to live moment to moment.<br />
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Turns out this is true in life as well. Who knew?!<br />
<br />
As my furniture was being taken away on Saturday, I noticed my cat was exhibiting some strange behaviour; Coughing, laboured breathing, panting. At first I thought it just might be a really bad hairball but since he hadn't touched his food, I knew it wasn't. After calling the vet to explain the symptoms, they told me to bring him in ASAP so I packed him up and flew to the ER clinic in a cab.<br />
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At the ER, they rushed him to the back while the front desk took my information. I had no idea what was happening but I got the sense it wasn't good. A few minutes later, the vet gave me a quote on what it would cost to diagnose his potential heart condition and get him back to good health since he was in very critical condition. I looked at the large number and was shocked at how much a little animal costs to heal. Even still, money was no object as I didn't know what the issue was so I agreed to carry through with treating and properly diagnosing him. It took all night and most of the next day to successfully stabilize his condition and be diagnosed with congestive heart failure. It's something he was born with, is 100% irreversible, and will shorten his life greatly. Luckily, he can still live a couple more happy years with the help of a daily medication. As she continued to explain everything I had to do to keep him in good health, I was overwhelmed to the point where I felt I was being buried alive. This little life was in my hands - literally. Without his daily heart pill, he will die. Talk about pressure!<br />
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My cat wasn't the only thing running through my head; I had just rid myself of ALL of my furniture. With the rest of my money going to take care of my Tucker, I had no monies left for new furniture. I was furniture-less - of my own doing too.<br />
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It's been an emotional few days but such as life I guess. Change is always hard - no matter what form it comes in - so I will embrace this adversity as I have previously and look forward to the opportunity to learn and grow stronger from it - one step at a time.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-59731062628290394472012-06-09T10:37:00.000-07:002012-06-09T10:37:10.845-07:00Heave ho and letting goLooking at a room full of furniture you will be ridding yourself of, can bring up some interesting emotions.<br />
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When I was emptying out drawers, shelves, and breaking everything down for the junk removal guys, I had some weepy moments. I came to terms with the fact that I'm letting go of the life I used to have (and share) with someone. I'm letting go of the person I used to be. I'm embracing the life I've wanted for so long and transforming into the person I want to be. It's always tough to say goodbye but also just as exciting so the tears were that of sadness and joy. Who knew we could feel two opposing feelings at one time.<br />
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According to <a href="http://www.healyourlife.com/author-louise-l-hay/2011/08/wisdom/personal-growth/make-room-for-the-new" target="_blank">Louis L. Hay</a>, 'In order to make room for the new, we must release the old and the outworn. This is
true for physical items as well as for mental ideas'.<br />
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So I wonder what a room full of furniture equates to - other than new furniture? What new ideas, thoughts, and beliefs will come of this upheaval? <br />
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We will find out soon enough.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-44284139624325772832012-06-07T22:55:00.003-07:002012-06-07T22:55:37.029-07:00A New BeginningAfter signing off on my last post, I figured this blog would be a distant memory until my next big trip. To tell you the truth, I started to miss writing in it. I quite enjoyed sharing my experiences and stories with people who took the time to read it so I have decided to keep writing. Even though I may not be in Europe, I am still travelling through life as a free spirit and always have a perspective or a story to share so I will continue to write until I have nothing left to say.<br />
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As you know, the plan was to move to Vancouver after I got back. Well as of June 16th, that's exactly what I'll be doing. I found a small studio loft in Gastown which will be a 5 minute walk to work and in the vicinity of some great food, great entertainment, and great friends. I can't believe it happened so quickly but when I decide I want to do it, it tends to happen sooner than later.<br />
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The dejunking has commenced which means some buried memories and feelings have come to the surface. It's like an archaeological dig. Some things you come across are wonderful finds while others are shattered pieces of something that once was and cannot be put back together. Most of the latter, I feel I have let go of as it no longer serves a purpose in my life. This also includes furniture that was accumulated when I was coupled with someone which no longer suits my taste. <br />
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Am I frickin' nuts?! Sometimes I wonder.<br />
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Getting rid of all my furniture seems a bit mad, yes, but maybe that's why I'm enjoying it so much? For the first time in a very long time I am following my crazy gut feelings, my illogical whims, my impulsive nature, just like I used to. When I didn't have someone hovering over me, criticizing my every move. It feels good to feed that beast because the curious cat in me wonders what will come of it. What will my new life look like? And there's the beauty! I can build it, create it, fashion it...any way I want.<br />
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And this, is just the beginning.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-42979943335048905112012-05-28T08:24:00.000-07:002012-05-28T08:28:13.676-07:005:30PM - Rome : Day 19<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pG1ghOuQHd8/T8OKn5y0VtI/AAAAAAAAAps/IIdnBaL58vA/s1600/DSC_1072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pG1ghOuQHd8/T8OKn5y0VtI/AAAAAAAAAps/IIdnBaL58vA/s400/DSC_1072.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My last day in Rome was spent at the Colosseum and Roman Forum. I didn't realize my tour included both so I was quite excited. The one good thing I do have to say about tours is that you meet people. The smaller ones even more-so.<br />
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There was a group of older folks from Seattle that chatted me up and asked me all about my travels as a single gal in Europe. They asked me to lunch but later abandoned me since the cab they hailed only carried their group of 4. Nice! So I cabbed back to the Vatican area with a young Australian couple and ended up having lunch with them. It was their first time in Europe too and were just starting their journey so we were exchanging tips and stories about our travels thus far. They had another tour in the afternoon so we parted ways and I spent the afternoon getting lost, having a cappuccino, and trying out some delicious desserts at a cafe. At this point, I think it's safe to say I need to buy some bigger pants when I get back. Mama mia!<br />
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I also think it's safe to say that I'm ready to come home. As much as I tried to take advantage of my days in Rome, to be perfectly honest, I'm exhausted. After 19 fun-filled, inspirational days and 1100
photos, my ability to go at full speed day-in and day-out had been slowly waning since Florence. Living out of my suitcase is also getting a wee-bit
tiresome and I am starved for good old fashioned conversation and
socializing with friends and loved ones. This can only mean one thing...I had the time of my life!<br />
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Just like ancient Rome was used as a foundation for the modern Rome we know today, I would like to think that my past experiences - as well as this trip - can act as a foundation for my life moving forward. As the religious man on the metro told me, "you need a foundation in your life". Well, maybe this was it? Maybe this was my "attraversiamo" moment where I leave behind all of my past hurts and failures and start fresh? One can hope!<br />
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To be honest, I'm not really sure if anything has changed since first starting this journey (except maybe my pant size) but I definitely do feel like the clouds have been cleared away and I'm more confident in myself and my direction in life. That's definitely something!<br />
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Since I won't have much to report on coming home, this post marks the last one until the next trip. I have a 5am start so it'll be an early night for me.<br />
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Thanks so much for joining me along the way. I hope you have enjoyed the updates as much as I have enjoyed sharing them. See you all when I get back.<br />
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Ciao amici!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-2993995960661228012012-05-27T13:45:00.002-07:002012-05-27T13:48:06.813-07:0010:45PM - Rome : Day 18I had an unusually lazy day today. I rolled out of bed around 8:30, ate my breakfast at a glacial pace, and headed out around 10. I passed the Vatican on my journey out and stopped to take in a small part of Sunday mass from the street. The bells tolled as the the sound of the choir filled every crevice for miles. It was a very peaceful start to my day.<br />
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After that, I walked around the city coming across some fountains and ruins, doing a bit of shopping, and reading a book in the park while making some interesting observations.<br />
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If Rome had one word to describe it, it would be LOVE. And it was full of it today.<br />
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Everywhere I looked, people were kissing, hugging, holding hands, making out. Even the book I picked up by Elizabeth Gilbert called "Committed" - the sequel to Eat, Pray, Love - is ALSO about love and the institution of marriage.<br />
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Am I being subconsciously influenced by my surroundings? Or am I grasping at straws trying to find a little hope for my own romantic future?<br />
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Being jaded by love, I find it hard to believe it truly exists. The hopeless romantic in me though, won't let me give up on the idea. Nor will Italy. Whether it's the Love Locks in Florence, the coin tosses in the Trevi Fountain, or the couples dolling out affections as I snap their photograph atop Duomos, it's a hard concept to ignore!<br />
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I told someone once that I was perfectly fine being on my own, taking care of myself, and that I didn't need anyone. While sure that may be true, he reminded me that needing and wanting are two different things - to which I would have to agree with. As much as friends and family are there to share life with, there is something to be said about having someone special in your life to share everyday moments with. This is what I truly miss about being in a relationship. <br />
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Then on the other hand, there are moments where I'm thankful for not being tied down to any one person right now. That was reaffirmed in Venice when I happened to overhear a conversation two girls were having at the table over from me. It was a full on, hour-and-a-half dish session about their crappy boyfriends. Complaints were dished out, justifications and excuses were made, and the conversation never strayed from this topic. These girls were absolutely consumed by their relationships and the downfalls. What's worse, is that they were in Venice - away from these boyfriends - and still consumed by them. This is what terrifies me about being in a relationship; The potential to get completely lost in love. More importantly, the wrong love.<br />
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The control-freak in me wants to think there's a perfect recipe for an ever-lasting love to which you don't lose yourself and you stay on course. If only you had the perfect partner, at the perfect time, under the perfect set of circumstances all would work out. But how would one ever grow from that? What would be the purpose of love if it didn't change you or throw you off course in some way - even if you do lose that love down the road? I know from personal experience, loving (and losing) definitely yielded me some wonderful opportunities that wouldn't have been possible otherwise. It has also given me a great deal of insight into myself and what I want for my future.<br />
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So really, in looking at it that way, one can't go wrong to find love, to fall in love. Maybe that's why the Italians are so big on it. It's an important part of your own personal evolution and...<br />
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...it's worth it.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-76408051173626572262012-05-26T14:31:00.004-07:002012-05-26T14:39:11.340-07:0011:30PM - Rome : Day 17<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is a perk to sticking around your hotel room at night; Getting a beautiful view of the Dome of St. Peter's Basilica from your hotel room.<br />
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Earlier this evening, I grabbed some pizza for dinner, brought it back to my room, threw on a movie, and relaxed for the rest of the night. I also did some apartment hunting. Yes I'm moving to Vancouver when I get back! <br />
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Why? Well, this trip made me realize a few things....<br />
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<b>1) I really do hate commuting</b><br />
My favourite cities in Europe were the ones that I could step out of my hotel/B&B and be a 5 minute walk from anywhere I wanted to go; restaurants, shopping, markets, museums, transit. I loved strolling and knowing that I didn't have to work in a commute time into my day/night. I didn't have to worry about making the train home or worry about late night bus schedules. It was very freeing.<br />
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<b>2) New city, new opportunity</b><br />
With each city I've visited here, I have had to bend, flex, shift, and adjust in order to make things work, to figure things out, to find my way. And I think I've done quite well so adjusting to Vancouver living shouldn't be all that different. More importantly though, had I stayed in one place, I would have never met the people I did, seen the sights I saw, get a taste for different foods, and experience the richness of each language. Moving to Vancouver will not only be a piece of cake in comparison but with it will bring a whole new chapter in life with new opportunities; Just like each European city I've visited. <br />
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<b>3) There's never a perfect time for change</b><br />
I guess I had been waiting for something to happen for me to have a reason to move to Vancouver. I hate moving. It's such a hassle and it's expensive...bla bla bla. Excuses? Probably. As creatures of habit & routine, we hate change and tend to stick with what works and what's comfortable. Where I live now, was exactly that. Being out of my comfort zone for a little over 2 weeks has made me come to realize that there is no such thing as a comfort zone. It's all relative. Kinda like "home is where the heart is". So whether I'm in a city in Europe or Vancouver, it really makes no difference. Vancouver is where I work, where I play, and somewhere I've always wanted to live. I have the means and the opportunity to move there so why the hell am I not doing it? Why am I waiting for that "perfect" moment to make that move? If there's any "perfect" moment in my life, it's now. Carpe diem!<br />
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So there ya have it. An evening in my hotel room and a world of thought. Just for the record though, these realizations didn't ALL happen tonight.<br />
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After all, Rome wasn't built in a day!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-29097988062505282292012-05-26T08:46:00.001-07:002012-05-26T08:47:35.833-07:005:45PM - Rome : Day 17<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Il dolce far niente</i>. Italian for 'the sweetness of doing nothing'.<br />
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That is what I will be practicing tonight after a full day walking tour through the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. The amount of walking and sheer number of people I had to wade through today is enough to make me finished with sight-seeing for a very long time.<br />
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Our guide was pretty good. Very knowledgeable, very funny, and very Italian. He took
no shit from the officers throughout the Vatican telling us to keep
moving, 'shushing' people who were too loud, and telling eaves-droppers
that weren't on our tour to carry on since we paid good money for a
guided tour and they didn't. I loved it :) He also gave us a 30-second window to photograph whatever we wanted when we got into the Sistine Chapel even though we weren't supposed to. Of course I snagged a shot of The Creation of Adam.<br />
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Boy, it's a good thing my B&B served me a cart of breakfast items at my door this morning - cereal, freshly baked croissants, fruit, juice, milk, coffee - all of which I thoroughly enjoyed in bed. Had they not, I'm not sure I would have survived the day on just a cappuccino and croissant.<br />
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There was lots to take in today so I'm not sure I'll do much tonight. I think what I will do is research what I might do and see tomorrow since I have a whole lot of <i>nullo</i> going on until my Colosseum tour on the 28th.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-58242658654791866532012-05-25T12:22:00.002-07:002012-05-25T12:51:59.463-07:009:30PM - Florence to Rome : Day 16Arrived safe and sound at my last stop on this European tour - Rome!<br />
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It was a scorching 31 degrees today and my suitcase 'fix' didn't work as well as I had hoped so my "5 minute walk" to my B&B from the metro station felt like an hour, uphill all the way, in a parka! (That will be the story I tell my grandchildren.) Luckily my sense of direction has been much better on this last leg of the journey so I didn't lose my way which definitely helped things.<br />
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After I found my B&B, I chilled out a bit before heading out to roam the city (no pun intended). I didn't intend to really scope much out since the city of Rome is HUGE and I wasn't sure I could see much given how far everything was spread out so I just started strolling.<br />
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I made it over to one of the bridges and thought...'well I'm this far, I might as well keep going'. On to the Piazza Navona and thought...'well, I'm here. Let's keep going'. Then I got to the Pantheon and thought...'what's one more stop?'. Finally ended up at the Trevi Fountain and decided to turn back but not before a coin toss. <br />
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Coin throwing is a big thing at the Trevi Fountain. Legend has it, if you throw one coin into the fountain it means a return to Rome, a second coin leads to a new romance (some say with an Italian), and a third coin leads to marriage (hopefully to that same Italian). I'm not going to tell you how many I threw in but I'm sure you can take a guess :)<br />
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I took a different route back to my B&B and was led to some other interesting attractions like the Vittorio Emanuele monument and the Area Sacra. Both very beautiful and interesting. I love how the modern city of Rome is built up around the ancient parts: Like pages in a book, layered one on top of another.<br />
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For a plan that didn't include much of anything this afternoon, I sure walked a lot and saw quite a bit. I really should be saving my feet & legs for the two tours I have booked while I'm here; The Vatican which includes St. Peter's Bacilica and The Colosseum. As much as I hate tour groups, I really wanted a guided tour of these two massive pieces of history so I will endure the crowd just a little longer.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-86435891162891627822012-05-24T11:39:00.006-07:002012-05-25T06:40:31.433-07:009PM - Florence : Day 15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well it was another fine day in Florence; The sun was hot and the day was open to do whatever I wanted. With my crowded, people-packed day yesterday, the serenity of the Boboli Garden was just what I needed so that's where I headed first thing.<br />
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As I wandered through the maze of greenery, I felt a little like Alice in Wonderland - anticipating a run-in with the Queen of Hearts and her card guards but to no avail. All I found was statues, flowers, birds, and a few museums. I could have spent all day there but I wanted to check out the rest of the gelato festival since I only got to visit one of the many piazza's it was being held in yesterday. <br />
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And I'm glad I did since the main piazza (which I missed yesterday) was where the master gelato makers from around Italy were sampling their most decadent flavours! A great way to cool off from the summer heat and appreciate what REAL gelato tastes like. A creamy, flavourful delight!<br />
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Later in the evening, I was feeling lazy so I decided hang out in my room and rig up my suitcase for tomorrow's travels. In one of the pockets, I found a long piece of belt-like material with two interlocking clips on each end. I assume it's to attach a smaller bag from the set, to the top of the suitcase. Well, now I'm using it as a handle so I can pull my suitcase instead of having to carry it.Yay! My suitcase blunders have been solved. It seems as though my shout-out for DaVinci's help lastnight paid off!<br />
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So yes, it's goodbye to Florence and on to my last city tomorrow - Rome. I have lots going on there so I'm sure the remainder of this trip will fly by. I can't believe it's almost time to go home! It's gone so fast!<br />
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Oh and if you aren't on Facebook and want to check out some photos I've taken along the way, please visit my travel photo gallery <a href="http://aweedmark.smugmug.com/travel" target="_blank">here</a>. Enjoy!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-22495360703715252672012-05-23T11:08:00.002-07:002012-05-23T12:38:33.905-07:008PM - Florence : Day 14I spent the day at the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries while also checking out another DaVinci exhibit, the gelato festival, and an open street market.<br />
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It was a full day!<br />
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Even though I had pre-booked my tickets to both galleries, there was still a small line to get in and once in, it was VERY crowded. As much as I hate crowds, I took my time and eventually, with a little patience, I did get up close and personal with Botticelli's Birth of Venus and Michelangelo's David. I think I gasped when I saw both. Wow! Incredible.<br />
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How can one complain about crowds when you're in these galleries seeing pieces of work some can only dream of seeing?!<br />
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There was one that made it a point to complain. When the coat check person refused to check a lady's bag, she argued. When her bag continued to be refused, she complained the entire time we were waiting to get in about how ridiculous it was, how disorganized it was, how stupid the whole thing was, and that she just wanted to go home. I was going to say something but I didn't want a confrontation with an ungrateful person ruin my good time.<br />
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Then I began to think about how North American's are so used to being catered to and pleased that it's probably a shock when they come here and they don't get waited on hand and foot. I have to admit it was a slight shock for me when I asked for directions, complained about my WiFi, or ordered food, and received a cold, abrupt response. Their curtness came across as aggressive and rude but I then began to realize, it's just their way. This also rings true for the cities themselves, the art, the architecture; It just is what it is. Like it or leave it.<br />
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I have a friend who uses this phrase quite frequently and I could never quite grasp how one could be so accepting and carefree in their thinking. (Insert control freak going mental here) Seeing it in context though, I can now understand his point of view.<br />
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If something "is what it is", you most likely you can't change it so you have to adjust how you view, think, or react to it. Like the ungrateful lady, her unchecked bag possibly ruined her day. Maybe even her trip. Had she chose to react differently, that one insignificant moment wouldn't have got in the way of the significant one - seeing the art work she travelled so far to see.<br />
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Two weeks into the trip, it would be easy for me to express my exhaustion, my sun burned skin, and my tired old soles but I know those things are minor and temporary. I am only here for a short while longer and I'm not gonna let those temporary things get in the way of the things that are going to be long-lasting and meaningful. So off I go for a nice relaxing dinner to soak up a little bit more of Florence in one of the piazza's.<br />
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Until tomorrow...buona notte.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-89471436137204683012012-05-22T11:49:00.002-07:002012-05-22T11:55:21.544-07:008:45PM - Venice to Florence : Day 13<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Despite the hundreds of tourists, annoying mosquitoes buzzing around your ear at night, and the earthquake, I was sad to say goodbye to Venice today. The smell of the ocean, the vaporetto's, the beautiful glass & masks...a beautiful city overall. I hope to return someday to see and do the things I didn't get a chance to.<br />
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On to another city though; Full of new experiences.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately my suitcase broke on the way here so the handle no longer retracts. I may have to carry it the rest of the way. (Noooooo!) But my hotel in Florence is near the train station, right in the Piazza del Duomo which helps for now. It also made it easy to check out a mechanical DaVinci museum around the corner, Ponte Vecchio, and climb my way to the top of the Duomo. It was stormy today in Florence which gave me a perfect opportunity to snap this shot when I got to the top. This moment made it worth the climb up the hundreds of steps. <br />
<br />
Compared to Europe we definitely have it easy with all of our elevators, escalators, and space. That's one thing I would say about travelling here; Pack light, bring good shoes, and ensure your accommodations are near a train station, a metro station, or in and around the places you want to see. It'll save you a lot of hassle.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow it's the Accademia and Uffizi galleries.<br />
I also hear there's a gelato festival going on so I'll probably check that out at some point too.<br />
<br />
Good times!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-42291858017697782792012-05-21T12:38:00.002-07:002012-05-21T12:38:54.331-07:009:45PM - Venice : Day 12<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
It was a gloomy, wet, cold day today but that wasn't gonna stop this West Coast girl from wandering to the island of Burano. Figured I'd give my museum-hopping a rest and do some island hopping instead.<br />
<br />
If Murano is quiet, Burano barely has a pulse - I love it :) With Venice being so hectic and swarming with people and boat traffic, Burano was a nice change of pace. I could definitely see myself spending long weekends here if I lived close enough.<br />
<br />
After a few hours there, I hopped on a vaporetto which I thought would take me back to Venice but I somehow ended up in Lido. I guess now I can say I've been to both islands and saw lots of scenery along the way. The boats are too much fun to putter around in though - even if you do end up on the wrong island.<br />
<br />
When I got back to Venice, I was extremely soggy and wet so it was time to do some laundry and have a slice of pizza. Nothing does pizza like Italy! Mmmm.<br />
<br />
And now, like a travelling gypsy, it's time to pack up and head out in the morning for Florence.<br />
See you there!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-75921004480262625672012-05-20T09:42:00.000-07:002012-05-21T12:28:05.650-07:006:45PM - Venice : Day 11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I had a bit of a shaky start this morning after an earthquake rattled the northern part of Italy. <br />
<br />
My plan was to get up early but I never expected to wake up at 4am to my bed shaking and the light fixture above my bed squeaking as it swayed back and forth. The shaking lasted for a minute and the aftershocks (& sheer worry) managed to keep me awake until 6. My "fight or flight" instincts kicked in and I wanted to pack up right then and make my way to Florence but the "fight" in me wasn't going to let an earthquake keep me from enjoying Venice.<br />
<br />
After getting up around 6:30, I headed out for my usual croissant and cappuccino while looking over my map figuring out what I was going to do. My first order of business was to buy a transit pass and once I had that in hand, Venice was mine to explore - earthquake or not. I made my way to some museums including the Dali exhibit - which I wasn't too impressed with - and the Accademia Gallery - where the paintings were a little too biblical for my taste. Even still, I appreciated both for what they were.<br />
<br />
As I'm realizing, no one does museums (or croissants) quite like the French. Having said that though, no one does pasta quite like the Italians!<br />
<br />
After all the museum hopping was done, I decided Morano would be a nice place to spend the afternoon. While I was sitting near a gondola dock planning my route and figuring out which waterbus to take, the gondola operator chatted with me for a few minutes and gave me some directions to the nearest waterbus station. As I thanked him and walked away he said, "Ciao Butterfly". I gathered he saw my tattoo - hence the nickname - so I wasn't quite sure whether it was creepy (because he was looking at my chest) or sweet (because he called me by a nickname). Maybe a bit of both? Either way, I smiled and trekked on.<br />
<br />
The vaporetto's are a great & fun way to get around the city. Once I was on the water, I had memories wash over me of days-gone-by when I spent time on my dad's boat. At that moment, I felt at home. I felt safe. <br />
<br />
Murano was quiet and a nice getaway from the craziness of Venice. Lots of glass shops! Wow! I saw a demonstration at the factory and visited the glass museum. I have a new appreciation for glass which I didn't have before I got here. <br />
<br />
It started raining so I came back to my room in Venice to grab an umbrella and a few minutes of downtime before I head back out again. A relaxing dinner and some people watching is in store for me tonight.<br />
<br />
And hopefully, no more earthquakes. Let's hope that spin on the Turin bull will bring me some luck, in that aspect, for the rest of my journey.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-75349456445840099702012-05-19T11:27:00.003-07:002012-05-19T11:27:37.823-07:008:30PM : Milan to Venice - Day 10I arrived in Venice this afternoon after a 2.5-hour train ride from Milan. When I stepped out of the station I wasn't expecting throngs of people. Yikes! It was overwhelming and I didn't really like all the dodging and weaving I had to do to navigate the streets. <br />
<br />
The actual city, on the other hand, is beautiful! Bridges, canals, and no cars but lots of boats which act as buses. No underground metro here!<br />
<br />
After I got to my B&B, I settled in and went for a stroll to figure out where things were so I could hit them up first thing tomorrow. I also stopped at a pasta place for dinner where I had the best vegetarian lasagna. Italian waiters though...I tell ya! They make them very cute and sweet here! Luckily I didn't get suckered into another expensive meal but I did, however, enjoy a cappuccino with cocoa powder in the shape of a heart for dessert. I think it's their "thing" but never-the-less, I couldn't help but smile. <br />
<br />
On my way back to my B&B, I inquired about a gondola ride for one and was given a minimum price of 80€. The vaperatto's will have to do for now. I'll save the gondola ride for when I come back with the love of my life. Let's just call that an excuse to come back :) <br />
<br />
It's an early night for me since I'll be up with the sun. I not only want to wander the streets & take some photographs of the city without people roaming them but I want to get to the museums before the crowd wakes up. A Dali exhibit is in town - YES! - so I'll be checking that out along with a few others.<br />
<br />
Night all!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-90241866955574145842012-05-18T12:28:00.004-07:002012-05-19T00:34:03.035-07:009PM - Milan : Day 9If I were to describe Milan as a person it would be a well-dressed business man in a very expensive suit who takes life too seriously, is all work and no play. Strictly nose to the grindstone.<br />
<br />
And to me, this is boring.<br />
<br />
So as much as I hate to admit it, Milan isn't a city that I will be returning to. It has been less inspiring than the other cities I've visited thus far. I've spent a lot of time "filling time" browsing the shops for items I couldn't afford, going to the Castello Sforzesco, eating gelato in front of the Cathedral, sketching, writing in my journal, and doing a lot of people watching. I haven't found much to photograph that truly sparked my interest so my camera got a bit of a break. Having said that though, I still appreciated what Milan had to offer.<br />
<br />
This evening I viewed the Last Supper. We only had 15 minutes and I spent every moment of that soaking it all in. It was larger than I expected. Needless to say I felt honoured to be standing in front of it, seeing it with my own two eyes. Absolutely incredible.<br />
<br />
In a million years, I never thought I'd be seeing something that I only saw
in books and studied in school - just like the Mona Lisa and other
important works I've seen. I left with a smile on my face which nothing could have erased. It was a combination of pride and a wonderment of what else life has in store for me. Seeing these masterpieces in person was always a pipe dream for me which I never thought would be realized. Now after seeing these pieces in person and knowing it is possible, I am curious to know what else is?<br />
<br />
I celebrated with a glass of Italian red wine, a dish of cannelloni, and of course, a cappuccino for dessert. As I sat and ate, I smiled with hope and excitement.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-38763140836602328292012-05-17T11:44:00.001-07:002012-05-17T13:29:20.094-07:007:30PM - Milan : Day 8<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When I advertised my itinerary to my friends, a few of them asked me,
"Why are you going to Milan?" I now understand why they asked. There's
not as much to do here as I originally thought. The only thing I really
had booked was the Last Supper and the rest of the time was left for me to
explore and be spontaneous. But since I was unsure as to what to explore, most of my morning was spent figuring that out.<br />
<br />
After my cappuccino and croissant this
morning, I went back to my hotel to grab a few pamphlets that tickled my
fancy, a metro pass from reception, and a map of the stations and
attractions. I circled the places I wanted to check out and headed off for
the day.<br />
<br />
Went to the Plaza del Duomo and spent a bit
of time admiring the Cathedral and strolled into the Galleria Vittorio
Emanuele II where I took a spin on the bulls balls. It is rumoured to be
good luck!<br />
<br />
After which I had the most expensive lunch of
my life; Caprese salad complete with buffalo mozzarella, a bottled
water (since they didn't have tap water), and a very LARGE cappuccino. 35€ later...yea like I said, most
expensive lunch EVER! I blame the cute Italian waiter who served me. I'm
such a sucker!... And hooked on cappuccinos! For a girl who hardly ever
drank coffee, I have suddenly found myself craving one for breakfast and
after dinner. I blame Peter...and the Europeans.<br />
<br />
I wandered for the rest of the afternoon, went to the
laundromat, and did some research online to figure out what the HELL
else to do! There was a DaVinci exhibit (the Codex Atlanticus) at the
Veneranda Biblioteca Ambrosiana so I HAD to go. I also read there was a
great place called Luini's where they made the BEST panzerotti's so I
checked that out too. It's like a calzone but made with a sweet-type of
pizza bread. You can get it in a savory flavours as well as sweet. I had
the mozza & prosciutto and it was absolutely delicious!! It was a
cheap dinner since I completely splurged on lunch.<br />
<br />
I
had an interesting conversation with a man about religion on the metro
in my travels today. He was dressed in a black suit with a black shirt
so I assume he may have been a priest but I wasn't sure. He initially
asked me a question in Italian, asking me for directions since I
recognized a name of one of the stations, but of course I didn't
understand him completely so I spoke to him in English. We started
chatting about where I was from and he shared his adoration for Canada;
The freedom and open-mindedness of the people, the acceptance of all
religions and backgrounds, as well as its beauty. He went on to to ask
me if I was married and why I didn't believe in God - per se. Two heavy
questions that were too deep to discuss in a crowded train car. I get
the sense that most people here are quite religious with all of the
churches, cathedrals, and the like so I strayed from the conversation by
saying, "Ah, two eternal questions to which I don't have answers for."
He laughed and told me, "You need a foundation in your life. Whether you
believe in God or a higher power." I smiled politely and said "Yea, I
get that." Unfortunately we couldn't get into it further as I had arrived at my stop so he shook my hand, introduced
himself as Mike, and I carried on my way.<br />
<br />
Run-ins like this freak me out but interest me at the same time.
Especially at a time in my life where I feel my belief system is broken
and am not sure if it will ever be restored. But maybe it's not a matter
of restoring it. Maybe it's more about building it back up,
transforming it into something more unique, something better suited,
something much stronger than what one started with? I like to believe
there are no coincidences in life and that everything has a purpose,
whether we know it or not so I guess I can't say I don't have any belief
left in me. It might just be a matter of fanning the flame.<br />
<br />
As the bells from the church down the street trickle in through my hotel room window, I can't help but think, 'what a fabulous place to do just that'.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-6295660307979870112012-05-16T14:08:00.003-07:002012-05-17T11:59:46.804-07:0010:45PM - Barcelona to Milan : Day 7Correction...when I say I recommend train travel, I only recommend it if there aren't any connections.<br />
<br />
I had 4 transfers to make today. I had 20 minutes to make the one in Figueres, 2 hours to make one in Valence, and 1 hour to make my last one in Lyon. I was unsettled about the 20 minute transfer since getting lost has been the theme here and I wasn't sure that was enough time to find my train. When I arrived in Figueres, I realized my next train was across the platform. Phewf! Crisis averted. I was able to relax since my next transfer in Valence was a 2 hour layover and that, for sure, wasn't going to be an issue since we were on time.<br />
<br />
Well, I spoke too soon.<br />
<br />
After getting to Valence, my transfer train to Lyon was one hour late which would make me miss my transfer to Milan. I asked the information desk what my options were and at first they were telling me to travel to Milan tomorrow. But after saying something in French to one of the other information officers, he pointed me to another line which transferred in Chambéry - where I would have to transfer there to hop on a train to Milan. Not a big deal since it got me into Milan at the same time anyways. It was just a different route. I saw some beautiful scenery going through some national parks - lush greenery, waterfalls, mountains, blue sky. It reminded me of home.<br />
<br />
It also made me think about my trip, thus far, and how it has been a great way for me to learn to let go of the steering wheel once and awhile - if not all the time. There are some things you just can't control so you just gotta roll with the punches and live moment by moment, one foot in front of the other. As my mom says, "all roads lead to home" so whether you're stuck in a train station in an unfamiliar part of the world, wandering the streets in many wrong directions, or completely unsure of your direction in life, one eventually gets to the place they need to be. It's just that sometimes, we're destined to take the more scenic route.<br />
<br />
My life, for example, has had many scenic routes to which I am now grateful for. I never did follow the crowd anyways and the road less travelled has always been an ongoing theme in my life. But then again, maybe that's just LIFE. <br />
<br />
Either way, I'll take that scenic route over a paved, straight highway any day.<br />
<br />
From Milan - <span class="st">buona notte!</span>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7394704890059758608.post-14159985674538021312012-05-15T13:44:00.003-07:002012-05-17T12:05:13.279-07:0010:45PM - Barcelona : Day 6<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
If only these shoes could talk, they'd probably tell me to stop walking.<br />
<br />
The miles I've covered in these shoes so far is incredible. The amount of stairs I've climbed in these shoes was unexpected. Staircases are prominent here whether it's in the metro stations, the museums, the monuments - no wonder Europeans don't gain any weight eating the delicious (calorie-ridden) food they have here. All they do is walk, climb stairs, and cycle. Rental bikes are huge too. They're everywhere.<br />
<br />
It was my 2nd day in Barcelona and it was mostly spent outside, finding the museums I wanted to visit. Getting lost - yet again - I walked around in circles a lot. Even with a compass and map in hand. I have to laugh at myself. Why is it so difficult?! I seem to get disoriented when I come out of the metro stations so I end up going in the wrong direction 90% of the time or I'm going the right way but doubt myself, turn back, to realize down the road I was actually going the right way to begin with. I've done that too many times to count. Everything looks the same around here, I swear. Maybe it's just an unfamiliarity. Or because all of the alleyways are actually roads. Or because all the round-about's and three-way streets. Or, maybe I just SUCK at directions. <br />
<br />
After I got my barrings, I visited the museums I wanted to see and missed one I really wanted to see since I thought it was one that was closed on Tuesdays. I pressed on though strolling the Ramblas, watching the performance artists, browsing the market, stopping at the wax museum on a whim, and having a bite to eat along the way. Overall it was a pretty relaxed day, even though I did just as many things. For dinner, I stopped at a tapas bar where one of the waiters swore I was French - even though I was speaking English to him. That's the second person who thought I was from France. Someone in Paris actually told me they thought I was French by how I spoke the language. I only said one sentence but hey, I'll take the compliment :) I felt pretty "at home" in Paris so maybe I'm bringing a bit of that energy with me.<br />
<br />
But so far I haven't had much dialogue with many. Came across a few
Canadians and Americans but nothing of real significance. I feel
like I haven't talked to anyone since I got here - like I'm a mute or
something. It can feel a little isolating but I'm hoping my full day train ride to Milan tomorrow will inspire some conversation.<br />
<br />
Off to bed I go. I have an early start!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12350594166023522133noreply@blogger.com0