Vacation Getaways – Good for the Soul

Vacation getaways - Bermuda Crystal Caves
Crystal Caves

 

My last post shared the cancellation of our European vacation. That was the bad news. The good news came when we learned we could transfer our funds to a less strenuous trip to Bermuda. On such short notice, we were lucky. We got back yesterday and had a wonderfully relaxing time. Before leaving, I consciously made the decision to put the blog on break. I thought about announcing this, but I still don’t fully trust social media and didn’t want to publicly reveal that we’d be away. Despite having a great neighborhood watch (remember my stealth Pokémon attack team?), I still feel funny about sharing too much about our vacation getaways online.

I did dabble just a bit with a few photos on Instagram and one on Facebook, but other than that, I was happy to unplug.

In fact, doing that was one of the biggest pleasures of my vacation. It got me thinking about why vacation getaways like this are such a good thing, even though I’m an unwavering homebody.

My Travel Pros:

Time to read a book or magazine – Ever since I began writing, I read less. Magazine flipping is what first got me into writing and now I never seem to have time for it. I so enjoyed going through my daughters’ Glamour and Vogue this past week and “The Silent Sister” by Diane Chamberlain was a page-turner.

Dining out – I have decided that if I ever win the lottery, my first indulgence will be a personal chef. I just love having food prepared for me.

A good swim – The warm water of Bermuda was so inviting, I floated in it for hours. I love the therapeutic quality of a long, salty swim, but here at home, the ocean is just too cold! Our vacation getaways aren’t always to someplace warm, but when they are this is one of the things I most enjoy.

See the world – I may be the queen of stay-cations, but even I know that seeing new places is a must. I’ve been to Bermuda before, but this trip we saw the Crystal Caves for the first time. It was my vacation highlight. Not only were the natural formations spectacular, but the story of the cave’s discovery was fascinating – learn more.

 

Stalactite
Bermuda’s Crystal Caves
Stalactites and Stalagmites in Bermuda Cave
Bermuda’s Crystal Caves

 

And what would the pros of our vacation getaways be without just a few cons:

I missed my baby – Ever since Oscar came into my life, I find leaving him terribly difficult. I’m so grateful to my sister for taking exceptional care of him, but I worried about him every day.

 

Beth's Schnauzer Oscar
I missed that face!

 

Dining out – The flip side of how much I love dining out is that after several days, I felt full. After a week, I was about to explode.

Did I mention I missed my baby!

Back to reality – the adjustment back from vacation mode is never easy. The empty refrigerator and mounds of laundry taunt me. But, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t glad to be back. I like my routine and I love my space.

While I’m often conflicted about travel, what I know for sure on this first day of August is that, whether I’m home or away, I’d better make the most of it, because summer will be gone before we know it.

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We Cancelled Our Trip to Europe

The Colosseum form out first family trip to Europe
A photo from our 2012 family trip to Greece, Italy and Turkey

Well, I want to say we postponed our trip to Europe because I fully intend to take this trip in the future – just not now. My feelings about this are deeply mixed. We were set to cruise from Rome to Northern Italy, then the French Riviera, then Spain. Nice, France was one of our stops.

When this most recent Bastille Day tragedy was reported, it was more than I could handle. Getting on a plane on a good day is something I can barely handle, but now one of the places we were planning to visit had been hit. I just didn’t want to go.

I actually said I wanted to cancel our trip to Europe after the Belgium incident (3/2016); Tony talked me out of it. I said if one more horrific thing happened in Europe I wouldn’t go. Then Istanbul happened (6/2016); Tony talked me off the ledge once again. He said, “Beth, Turkey is in a lot of turmoil right now, something like this won’t happen in the places we’re going – they aren’t targets.”

At this point I wasn’t evening factoring the 2015 attacks in Paris. Then there was Nice (7/2016). I didn’t have to fight. Even Tony was rattled knowing we were to be in that very place, very soon. It was all too much.

Yes, I know there’s a greater chance of being killed in a car accident, but that didn’t change the sinking feeling I had. And sinking was the last thing I should be thinking about when getting ready for a seven day cruise.

The fear was overwhelming and it took over. I wish it hadn’t, I wish I was stronger, but I felt better about not going than going.

I don’t want to run scared and I don’t want to let anyone “win,” but I’m not a risk taker and how could we enjoy ourselves wondering if wherever we were going to be was next? This time, my family agreed. The decision was made – I’m relieved and devastated at the same time.

I feel privileged to travel with my family. I love that my girls enjoy traveling with us and want to see the world. When we last visited Rome we never made it inside the Colosseum. This trip would have given us the chance to check that box. I am sad, angry, guilt-ridden and so torn about changing our plan.

I can only hope and pray that our world gets better and that we have the chance to schedule another trip to Europe very soon.

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Poké Oh Man! – What is Pokemon Go?

Pokemon Go in my yard

What is Pokemon Go?

Does this look familiar? Rarely am I in the loop on trending technology and this past week was no different. Pokémon GO was released on July 6th. What is Pokemon go? you ask. It’s a smartphone app where gamers attempt to catch cute little critters on screen, while out and about in the real world. I think I saw a post or two about it on Facebook, but I paid little attention. Not until Monday, when the rage hit home.

Monday morning, I drove out my usual route and saw a group of middle schoolers gathered at the local common. It’s summer, so that was no surprise. I observed every kid in the group nose to phone. Again not surprised – such a sad reflection of society today.

The Incident

I went about my day and not until dusk did Pokémon GO strike again. Just Julia and I were home and when I passed by my front door I noticed a young man, maybe 15-18, squatting down across the street. He was looking at his phone and appeared innocent enough. I saw him in the same spot 10 minutes later – I thought that was odd. I called Julia over to see if she recognized him – she didn’t. No need to panic, but I locked up just in case. Julia and I kept watch – when the guy began repeatedly walking back and forth past our house; all the while face in phone, I started to get nervous. I called Tony who said he’d head right home from a work event, then I called my neighbor down the street. Neighborhood crime watch was in effect and we decided a call to the police business line was warranted. Just as I was about to dial, I saw my neighbors from up the street on an evening stroll. By this time the “stalker” had walked slightly out of view. I frantically waved over my dear friends to alert them of the lurker. I explained the scenario and without hesitation they both said, “Oh, he’s Poké hunter.” A what?

They explained it was all part of the Pokemon Go craze, to which I promptly asked, “What is Pokemon Go?” I had not idea what they were talking about. Now, however, I notice every Pokémon player I pass. Soon enough I became aware of the pros, but mostly cons of this funny phenomenon.

Pros

  • Kids are getting out and exploring the world outdoors (albeit with their face in phone)
  • Kids are banding together in the spirit of fun and games (albeit with their face in phone)
  • Kids are actively combating summer boredom all on their own (albeit with their face in phone)

Cons

  • Kids’ faces are still in their phones
  • Kids aren’t watching where they are going – They are crashing their bikes and I almost ran over a boy who stepped into the road without bothering to look up.
  • It’s dangerous – phone locations are being tracked. In some cases players are being lured into very precarious situations. Just yesterday, this article came out in the Wall Street Journal.
  • If you’re not careful, crazy moms, like me, will call the cops on you because you’re loitering suspiciously outside our homes.
  • Finally, it’s a quick drain on your phone’s battery.

In the end

While it seems the cons outweigh the pros, I don’t discount this new age of game play, but as a mom I would like to see the safety kinks worked out before I say go ahead, “Catch ‘em all.

 

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Radio Rookie on Eagle News Radio

Lysa Pelletier, Beth Daigle, Leslie Buresh, Lou Blasi at Eagle News Radio station
Lysa and I gear up for the show with the clock radio she brought in to listen to in the “Green Room.” She’s a Vintage Vixen! A selfie with Lysa and Leslie. Ready to roll! Lou, Lysa and Leslie – where the magic happens.

 

Hanging with the Valley Girls

I had a smile on my face all afternoon on Tuesday. I kept thinking about my morning and how giddy I was to have done something I’d always wanted to do. It didn’t hurt that it happened with one of the funniest women I know. I’ve known Lysa Pelletier-Gibbs for about 10 years. She’s a talented fashion and product stylist and we’ve always wanted to work together. It took us about 9 years, but it finally happened when Lysa joined the team at Merrimack Valley Magazine. Working on editorial was fun, but sitting in as Lysa’s guest on her new radio show took it to an entirely new level.

Lysa and her life-long friend, Leslie Buresh, are the “Valley Girls” at WCCM 1110 Eagle News Radio airing Tuesday’s at 11:00 a.m. They, along with producer Lou Blasi, create a talk show that makes good on the station’s claim as “The Conversation Station.” These ladies know how to talk.

“I’ve wanted to do this for years,” Lysa shared about why she ventured into radio. “I figured radio would be easier than TV (no hair and make-up and I don’t have to hold in my stomach) and I love talking with talented, funny, inspirational people.

I was thrilled to be a “Valley Girl” guest. I’d get to see what goes on behind a broadcast and tell the Eagle News Radio 1110am audience all about 3 Olives & a Twist – Yay me! I just hoped others wouldn’t hate the sound of my voice as much as I do.

Inside the Eagle News Radio Studio

The radio booth was exactly as I imagined it; an intimate space with classic looking microphones, headsets and a control center that Lou manned like the seasoned pro that he is.

Eagle News Radio station studio
Quiet when entering the sound booth! Foam soundproofing is functional and aesthetically appealing. My headset, mic and the heart rock Lysa gave me from Ogunquit beach.

 

I wasn’t nervous, although I thought I should be. I’m a writer after all – there’d be no delete or backspace on my words this time. Lysa and Leslie, however, kept the conversation flowing with ease. And as I always do with Lysa, I giggled at her endless humor. She’s one of those magnetic people that promotes positivity and laughter. In fact, laughter is a tie that bonds Lysa and Leslie.

“Lysa and I’ve been friends for eva,” says Leslie in her signature “Valley Girl” accent. “Since high school we’ve always had a blast. Over the past 5 years, our boys went to high school and played basketball together – we saw each other all the time. Two years ago, my husband was diagnosed with cancer. He passed away in October – Lysa was there for us and especially me. She makes me laugh and I make her laugh. So when she asked, how could I not join her on the airways! She’s my best friend–she makes me want to dream again. I’m not quite there; but soon, hopefully, I will dream big for myself and that would make Lysa soooo happy.”

Leslie’s touching words made me even happier that I’d tried something new with such fabulous people. It was so much fun and I hope the folks listening enjoyed it as much as I did. Whenever we got our first caller, Ernie, I almost jumped off my seat. I hope our dating advice gets him a gal!

Lysa was as happy with the show as I was. “Yesterday’s show was EXACTLY what I dreamed it would be,” she said. “Hanging with my bestie (and Lou of course) and having a wonderful guest that I could share with the world (or at least Merrimack Valley).”

Awww, thanks Lysa! The entire experience was hilarious and exciting. If you missed it, here’s the podcast link to my first ever radio spot.

The Podcast – In case you missed it…

 

Valley Girls 7-5-16, Click Here To Listen

Jump to minute 2:01 for the show’s start and minute 14:15 for my first words.

Thank you Lysa, Leslie, Lou and all the Eagle News Radio listeners for an awesome opportunity!

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Happy 4th of July! How are you celebrating?

4th of July North Andover Fireworks, 7/3/2016
North Andover Fireworks, 7/3/2016

 

So far, this 4th of July weekend, the weather has been beautiful, the beaches packed and barbecues plentiful. I have enjoyed time with my family and friends and took in a beautiful fireworks display in good old North Andover.

But more than all the busy stuff, I have most enjoyed lazy mornings, catching up on yard work and evening walks with my dog, Oscar. It’s always the simple things that make the biggest impression on me. Don’t get me wrong – I love a little hype now and again, but laying low can be just as rewarding. In past years, we’ve typically traveled over the 4th of July holiday. Being at home this year gave us the welcomed opportunity to enjoy Independence Day at a different, slower pace.

Overall, it’s been a wonderful holiday weekend. In addition to the fun and festivities, we’ve had the opportunity to reflect and celebrate the freedom and goodness that our great country still has to offer. Today I pray for peace, prosperity and continued American pride.

How did you spend your 4th of July weekend?

***On an unrelated note – I’m excited to announce that I’ll be sitting in for my first radio spot tomorrow on Eagle News Radio, The Conversation Station, WCCM 1110am. I’ll be a guest on Lysa Pelletier-Gibbs’, show, Valley Girls, on air at 11:00 am. We’ll be talking about reinventing yourself after forty. I’ll hope you’ll tune in.***

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