So I'm finally settled in enough to write my first blog while being back on board. These past couple weeks have been filled with staff training, costume re-fitting, name learning, and of course – rehearsing, rehearsing, rehearsing! And now that those undesirable tasks are (mostly) behind me, I can finally start to enjoy being here!
I should begin by saying how absolutely incredible my cast is. They've been on board 9 months already (the longest of long contracts), and still have 6 weeks till they're all home again. However, they haven't lost their energy, enthusiasm, or minds!! Even though they've been doing these shows for what may seem like forever I'm sure, each one of them made it a point to be sure I was comfortable - calling extra rehearsal time, working individually through the numbers, and helping me acclimate back to ship life in general. Simply, I couldn't have had a better 'new' cast!!
Since I spent my last 6-month contract doing the same shows this new cast has been doing, I came in knowing most of everything. But of course, each cast has their own idiosyncrasies, so more than a few times I had to get what I did before out of my head/body, and re-learn a new step. Again, everyone's patience was endless! And I must say, the majority of all the shows went off without a hitch! A couple step touches there, or the wrong arm here were the only minor problems I encountered – and done without the knowledge of the audience. All the shows were really well received. I was constantly stopped by guests who had to express their sheer delight in the past night's entertainment! I forgot how wonderful it is to hear how amazing you are everyday! Hahaha...
Speaking of, two of my favorite cruisers actually surprised me by joining the ship the same day I did, and not telling me! They knew I'd be starting my contract, but they kept that they were coming a secret, so when I saw them the first day I thought I had just hallucinated from severe jet lag!! It's just wonderful to have two familiar faces in the crowd every night, almost like having a set of parents out there cheering you on! Today started a new cruise - I've still got my 2 favs here till Dubai, but they've been joined by a whole slew of guests that I've cruised with before and whom I love love love!! It was an exciting day indeed, to see so many people that I've gotten to know and had good times with! If it were even possible, I'm looking forward to this next cruise now more than ever!
The cruise we started today begins what they call 'The Discovery Selection.' It's fully booked, and if you read all the ports we'll be hitting you'd know why. Basically a major reason for why I'm here happens in 2 days... EGYPTIAN PYRAMIDS (I've been dreaming of this moment since I wrote an 8th grade paper on Giza)!!! AAAAAHHHH!!!! I am BESIDE myself with excitement! I can't friggin' wait! And the next day I'm taking a tour to Bethlehem stopping at other biblical hot spots along the way. Am I really this lucky!? The rest of the ports are guiding us down to Dubai (our next embarkation day – and final cruise of the contract). I can say it's definitely felt like I've been here two weeks but I have a sneaky suspicion that the next few weeks will FLY by! (I'll be back in Kevin's arms tomorrow practically!)
Last night was my first overnight since being on board. Overnights among the crew are highly desirable since we never really get a night off if we leave port every day at 5 or 6pm. So needless to say, it was an epic night in Istanbul that started with an incredible Thai meal (yes... Thai in Turkey...) with 7 or so of us. Having been to Thailand, it's my favorite type of food, so I sat there salivating (as I am now) over the menu and narrowing down which 2 (or 3) things I wanted. As soon as the last plate was cleared from our table, the power of the restaurant went out so we finished digesting over candlelit drinks. Then the rowdy bunch of us went to an amazing dive bar right off Taxim Square (a major shopping/eating district). All night long this AWESOME jazz/rock/bluesy band with horns played Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, disco, etc etc etc... After a few rounds, some guys in our group thought it would be fun to practically throw Ellery (the other female singer on the ship – and a complete JOY to be around) and I onstage with these guys to get us to sing Proud Mary!! I've seen the video and I'm not sure I'll ever make it public, but it was such a COOL experience! Hahhaa... Then after a few kebabs at 5 in the morning, we made it back to the ship.... Ahhh.... Istanbul.
I've settled quite nicely back into my napping routine, and I've already converted myself back to being a night owl (I never fully convinced myself I was a morning person anyhow). I forgot how dark my room gets (really a cave... since I have no window BUT it's private), which could be a good thing or a bad thing. Bad thing is that you could literally sleep half the day away – Good thing is that you could literally sleep half the day away!! I've already had the pleasure (twice) of dining with passengers in the 6-star 'fancy-schmancy' restaurants, and I'm back to enjoying fine wine and extra dirty vodka martinis for free! And it just plum feels good to be back onstage again! More than once during the shows as I was milking that last note, I had an overwhelming feeling of pure joy and thankfulness. I'll never take for granted what I have.
Sorrento, Italy was my first time off the ship since joining. There's a pizza place that we always went to when I first started visiting Sorrento, so that was a must stop for the day. My oh my how amazing is their pizza, let me count the ways. It's always crowded with locals, making it a good indication of its caliber on the Italian scale. This place is located right across the street from a lemon and lime grove/garden. So we frolicked through there and had a free limoncello tasting (I always think I'm going to like it, but I never do...). Gelato was next on the list, of course (hello limone flavor!). And we enjoyed that while walking around and eventually settling into this cute cafe that overlooked the bay. All in all a perfect day, and a great reunion with a fabulous city. Santorini was the next fun day I had. We went on a 'Gyro-Crawl' hitting up a couple stands and washing them down with cold Efes beer. I did a little shopping here and there, and then took some pictures (as if I don't have enough pictures of Santorini from the countless times I've been there – but it's just soooo beautiful you can't help yourself!). Love love love Santorini – it's defintely my favorite Greek port...
Internet has been a frustrating slap back to reality, however. If we even get a connection, more often than not it's at an irritatingly slow speed. It's made for some tough communication between my love and I. But we make it work, and he couldn't be any more supportive and proud of me right now. Since we don't have internet at our cabin in Montana, he'll drive to McDonald's everyday before work to talk for a few minutes. A few times, he's been left there alone for 45 minutes before (correctly) assuming I'm having connection problems. When he's in NC he'll have free WiFi at any time, so hopefully the seas in this part of the world will cooperate better!
Have to share a cute Kevin story… We were in Kusadasi, Turkey for my birthday. Unless you're there to see Ephesus, which is amazing, or to shop for a rug or cheap knickknacks that you're generally overcharged for, the only real redeeming thing about Kusadasi is that the port terminal has a Starbucks with free internet! So of course, that's where I headed to get online for a few hours. Kevin and I Skyped (thank God for Skype and video chat). There in the McDonald's parking lot in his truck, he had brought a large muffin (the store was out of cupcakes apparently), stuck a candle in it, sang Happy Birthday to me, then told me to 'blow out the candle' while he discreetly did the deed. How adorable is he!?!? Oh my goodness... I know everyone's rolling their eyes, but these are the little things in life that support just how lucky I am! It made my day since I had been bumming a little that I wouldn't get to spend the day with him in person. I also finally got to call my mom after what felt like forever since I'd last spoken with her! We mostly talked wedding stuff, which I love. I've been collecting Bridal Magazines from some the countries I've visited so far – Italy and Turkey – with plans to hit the shops to look for more in Egypt, India, and South Africa.
Well, I must bid adieu for now. With as many sea days as there are coming up, I should get plenty of downtime to continue to write of my adventures. Egypt here I come!! WOO HOO!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
The End of an Adventure, Beginning of Another
Writing my first blog since becoming ENGAGED! I won't bore you with all the details partly because it would take most of my time, and mostly because we've already bought a domain name (www.kevinandmk.com) to fill with ALL of our engagement/wedding information (updates coming soon...). All I'll really say about it, is that we are STOKED!! To be honest, we both knew it would happen soon. After everything fell into place with my engagement ring (family diamonds were involved), Kevin felt it was the right moment. AND he wanted to have me spoken for before I went on my cruise contract... Speaking of...
Ok... So, it's Wednesday. I'm supposed to be ON the ship on SATURDAY... IN ROME... The kicker? I don't have my flight info yet!!! Having called my entertainment company yesterday to see if there were any leads as to when I was leaving, we both came to the conclusion that more than likely I'd fly out Friday. When on Friday – I have no clue. Unfortunately, if it's really early in the morning, Kevin and I will have to drive to Bozeman (the nearest airport I'm flying out of, 2 hours away) tomorrow and get a hotel room to stay in. I love staying in hotels, but it being my last night in town, I'd rather stay in our quaint little cabin that we've grown to love so much. But 'gotta do what you gotta do.'
I haven't started packing yet. I've thrown a couple dresses into a stuff sack, but the majority of my things haven't been touched. Oy vey. I've been working full-time up until yesterday and I need to do laundry... And it just doesn't really feel like I'm going. Maybe once I have my flight schedule I'll be more motivated. I think, too, that a part of me hasn't started packing yet because I don't want to leave Kevin. We haven't spent more than 5 hours apart since he came up to New York City to get me (I know – you're rolling your eyes). We live together, work together, play together, eat together... everything. And I know, I know, I KNOW this time apart will do us good ('distance makes the heart grow fonder') and I KNOW in 3 weeks once I'm settled on the ship and into 'world traveler' mode I'll be fine. It's the whole 2 or so weeks leading up to me leaving that's the hardest. It's like there's a weight on my shoulders... An inevitability just looming around the corner. But I have to tell myself that it's JUST 8 weeks... As far as standard contracts go, this is a fraction of the time I'd normally be away. So every time a lump forms in my throat, I think of these things: 8 weeks, MONEY, the Pyramids, Indian food, and being on stage (not necessarily in the that order!).
As much as I've enjoyed my summer in West, I'm looking forward to indulging my travel bug (egypt, Egypt, EGYPT!!!!), and being in the spotlight once again. Once the contract is over, I fly home for the Holidays! I've already packed my winter schedule out. I haven't had near the time I'd like to devote to wedding planning (though we do have a date... September 24th, 2011), so that'll be on the top of my list as soon as I'm home. Also, I contacted an awesome (and involved) musical director friend of mine who gave me a heads up about a production of RENT that's coming to the Asheville Community Theatre in February. Auditions would be 2 days after I've landed in December, but I'll be fresh from a contract, and ready to be in one of my favorite shows! I plan on a trip to China the end of February (I'm having my wedding dress custom made for me by my dad's Chinese tailer), and then a tentative vacation to Belize with Kevin's family in March. April will then be spent on the road, as Kevin and I take a month to hit some of our favorite cities (new and old) to visit with friends and family on our way back to Montana for next summer. Whew. Excitement GALORE! I LOVE IT!
On the agenda for the rest of the day – laundry, the dreaded packing, dying hair (nothing extreme...), and a fun night out compliments of my boss. Since my birthday (the 18th) will be spent on the ship, Kevin decided that today is my 'fake' birthday (I haven't spent a birthday 'home' in 4 years). He baked me a cake last night that I'm not allowed to touch until dinner tonight, complete with sprinkles and candles! It was his first EVER cake, and I must say the boy did pretty good! We're also going shopping for my 'tacky t-shirt.' It's a new obsession I have that all started with a glow-in-the-dark tee I bought at a Wal-Mart in Alaska that has wolves on it (it's so awesome). My other presents included an assortment of music CDs Kevin has been laboring over AND a Moose Drool hoodie that I've had my eye on all summer! It's been a great 'fake' birthday so far!
Now I'm off to cook Kevin some lunch (Chickpea burgers with slaw and pringles... So gourmet. So yum.). I will try my very best to keep an up-to-date blog while cruising the seas so you can follow along in my adventures! Hope everyone is having a vibrant and fragrant Fall! And wish for peace in Europe!
Ok... So, it's Wednesday. I'm supposed to be ON the ship on SATURDAY... IN ROME... The kicker? I don't have my flight info yet!!! Having called my entertainment company yesterday to see if there were any leads as to when I was leaving, we both came to the conclusion that more than likely I'd fly out Friday. When on Friday – I have no clue. Unfortunately, if it's really early in the morning, Kevin and I will have to drive to Bozeman (the nearest airport I'm flying out of, 2 hours away) tomorrow and get a hotel room to stay in. I love staying in hotels, but it being my last night in town, I'd rather stay in our quaint little cabin that we've grown to love so much. But 'gotta do what you gotta do.'
I haven't started packing yet. I've thrown a couple dresses into a stuff sack, but the majority of my things haven't been touched. Oy vey. I've been working full-time up until yesterday and I need to do laundry... And it just doesn't really feel like I'm going. Maybe once I have my flight schedule I'll be more motivated. I think, too, that a part of me hasn't started packing yet because I don't want to leave Kevin. We haven't spent more than 5 hours apart since he came up to New York City to get me (I know – you're rolling your eyes). We live together, work together, play together, eat together... everything. And I know, I know, I KNOW this time apart will do us good ('distance makes the heart grow fonder') and I KNOW in 3 weeks once I'm settled on the ship and into 'world traveler' mode I'll be fine. It's the whole 2 or so weeks leading up to me leaving that's the hardest. It's like there's a weight on my shoulders... An inevitability just looming around the corner. But I have to tell myself that it's JUST 8 weeks... As far as standard contracts go, this is a fraction of the time I'd normally be away. So every time a lump forms in my throat, I think of these things: 8 weeks, MONEY, the Pyramids, Indian food, and being on stage (not necessarily in the that order!).
As much as I've enjoyed my summer in West, I'm looking forward to indulging my travel bug (egypt, Egypt, EGYPT!!!!), and being in the spotlight once again. Once the contract is over, I fly home for the Holidays! I've already packed my winter schedule out. I haven't had near the time I'd like to devote to wedding planning (though we do have a date... September 24th, 2011), so that'll be on the top of my list as soon as I'm home. Also, I contacted an awesome (and involved) musical director friend of mine who gave me a heads up about a production of RENT that's coming to the Asheville Community Theatre in February. Auditions would be 2 days after I've landed in December, but I'll be fresh from a contract, and ready to be in one of my favorite shows! I plan on a trip to China the end of February (I'm having my wedding dress custom made for me by my dad's Chinese tailer), and then a tentative vacation to Belize with Kevin's family in March. April will then be spent on the road, as Kevin and I take a month to hit some of our favorite cities (new and old) to visit with friends and family on our way back to Montana for next summer. Whew. Excitement GALORE! I LOVE IT!
On the agenda for the rest of the day – laundry, the dreaded packing, dying hair (nothing extreme...), and a fun night out compliments of my boss. Since my birthday (the 18th) will be spent on the ship, Kevin decided that today is my 'fake' birthday (I haven't spent a birthday 'home' in 4 years). He baked me a cake last night that I'm not allowed to touch until dinner tonight, complete with sprinkles and candles! It was his first EVER cake, and I must say the boy did pretty good! We're also going shopping for my 'tacky t-shirt.' It's a new obsession I have that all started with a glow-in-the-dark tee I bought at a Wal-Mart in Alaska that has wolves on it (it's so awesome). My other presents included an assortment of music CDs Kevin has been laboring over AND a Moose Drool hoodie that I've had my eye on all summer! It's been a great 'fake' birthday so far!
Now I'm off to cook Kevin some lunch (Chickpea burgers with slaw and pringles... So gourmet. So yum.). I will try my very best to keep an up-to-date blog while cruising the seas so you can follow along in my adventures! Hope everyone is having a vibrant and fragrant Fall! And wish for peace in Europe!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Summer So Far
Amongst the mountains, rivers, wildlife and people, Kevin and I find ourselves in the midst of a bustling summer life. It's been truly wonderful. It hasn't rained in 4 weeks, so every morning we wake up to the not so distant Rocky Mountains set against a bright blue sky. With hardly any humidity, a light breeze floating through the air, and the amazing background of the Park, we feel like we're in Paradise. Then, every night, around 7pm or so, 4 large coaches come charging through town to let out 1/10th of the Asian population and we're smacked back down to reality.
Tourists. We surely appreciate their business, but boy do they make 'living the easy life' hard. Kevin has had to learn to be patient with their apparent lack of common sense. We assume they forget to pack that sort of thing. I have a more open-minded approach. I realize that they're here to enjoy themselves. They've worked hard for their vacation, and they expect to see and do certain things when visiting Yellowstone. I get that. And Kevin, to his credit, is getting that as well. I understand his frustrations, however, and can admit to 'going off' on a certain woman. We were driving in the park on a day off, enjoying the weather and our new set of binoculars. Cars began to go slower and slower until eventually we had come to a complete standstill. Never an uncommon thing (locals call them 'Buffalo Jams' or 'Moose Jams' etc..), Kevin got increasingly annoyed by the situation and I got increasingly annoyed by his annoyance. After 10 minutes and countless folks walking past our car on foot, I decided to see what the fuss was about since we were at least 100 cars or so behind around the bend. Before I even got to the scene of the crime, word of mouth had traveled that there were 2 baby coyotes 200 or so yards off the road. Of course, once I got to the front of the line, they were but mere dots in the field, undistinguishable by even my fancy new binoculars. What WAS apparent - the car that was causing the enormous traffic jam: A red van, parked ON THE ROAD, all four doors open, all passengers gazing out at the field on the bank. I calmly approached one of the guilty, a seemingly nice old lady, and politely told her that "it was actually illegal to park on a federal road, so if [they] could please keep driving or pull off." WELL... That B!^$% looked at me with every foul bone in her body and smartly said, "Um... Aaaand you are!?" Wooooo... There went all my patience for people enjoying the park. I yelled at the woman that I was from the state of Montana where I know it's ILLEGAL to park on any road maintained within park boundaries and that if she didn't move her vehicle RIGHT THEN I would report her license plate number to the nearest park official I came across. She continued to foul mouth me back saying I was being ridiculous, and as I walked away (still yelling), people inside their cars who had heard the whole argument began to clap their support for me. Sooo... I got back into the truck, relayed the story to Kev, who was ever so proud, and within seconds traffic began to go forward again.
Fortunately, we haven't had a run-in since then. At least, not one bad enough to rile us up too much. Either we're becoming more adept at accepting asinine people, or more adept at avoiding them. Anyway... I digress... :)
We've really found a niche here, and have already made plans to return for another summer. Kevin's ultimate goals of becoming a fly fishing guide mean at least one more grunt year as a shop boy before any promotion. I have learned that full-time retail is not my thing. Although highly proficient at it ("Why, yes, let me show you which fly to throw on the Madison..."), previous employment as a cruise ship singer has spoiled me. In that life, working 3 hours was a lot. And the pay isn't even comparable. So, while the summer season is in the early stages of wrapping up, I plan to contact the local radio station for possible voiceover work (which has been a side job of mine for quite sometime now... In fact, those in the Florida network of grocer Piggly Wiggly have heard my 'weekly specials' a few weeks at a time). There ARE two local theatres in town. However, one is heavily Mormon influenced, and the other dress in red cowboy shirts, jeans, boots, and hats prance around town every night at 6:30 singing "Home on the Range." I wouldn't want to be a diva by saying there's no way in Hell I'd do that. So, hopefully with a lighter schedule next year, I'll be able to express my art by writing more music and performing the local venues here. To be honest, Kevin makes me happier than anyone or anything I've ever done, so any silly thing to pay our modest bills will suffice.
On that note, I am excited to say I have a short 2 month contract on the ships this fall. I will be replacing the soprano that actually replaced ME back in January (she's been on for a LONG time!). I'll be heading out October 9th flying to Rome (one of my favorite European cities - or cities in general!). For the first month, I'll see welcomed familiar sites in the Mediterranean (Greek food and Turkish hookahs here I come), but then head to the unfamiliar with a trip through the Suez Canal to Egypt, India, and the Seychelles finally flying back December 2nd out of Cape Town, South Africa. I am certainly looking forward to my spoiled lifestyle AND the traveling. I have been blessed with the bug, and I'm just itching to get around the world some more. Kevin plans to finish the month of October here, then move us back to NC so he can start at REI in Asheville again. We originally planned to go to Colorado for the winter, but for multiple reasons decided it best to head towards home for the Holidays. I couldn't be happier being closer to family for Christmas and it'll give Kevin and I a chance to visit with everyone we love.
So as we enjoy the rest of our blissful summer, I hope those reading are finding joy in their summers as well!
p.s. I love how many of my friends have started blogs! As if Facebook stalking weren't enough, now I get the inside scoop! Keep it up my blogging buds!
Tourists. We surely appreciate their business, but boy do they make 'living the easy life' hard. Kevin has had to learn to be patient with their apparent lack of common sense. We assume they forget to pack that sort of thing. I have a more open-minded approach. I realize that they're here to enjoy themselves. They've worked hard for their vacation, and they expect to see and do certain things when visiting Yellowstone. I get that. And Kevin, to his credit, is getting that as well. I understand his frustrations, however, and can admit to 'going off' on a certain woman. We were driving in the park on a day off, enjoying the weather and our new set of binoculars. Cars began to go slower and slower until eventually we had come to a complete standstill. Never an uncommon thing (locals call them 'Buffalo Jams' or 'Moose Jams' etc..), Kevin got increasingly annoyed by the situation and I got increasingly annoyed by his annoyance. After 10 minutes and countless folks walking past our car on foot, I decided to see what the fuss was about since we were at least 100 cars or so behind around the bend. Before I even got to the scene of the crime, word of mouth had traveled that there were 2 baby coyotes 200 or so yards off the road. Of course, once I got to the front of the line, they were but mere dots in the field, undistinguishable by even my fancy new binoculars. What WAS apparent - the car that was causing the enormous traffic jam: A red van, parked ON THE ROAD, all four doors open, all passengers gazing out at the field on the bank. I calmly approached one of the guilty, a seemingly nice old lady, and politely told her that "it was actually illegal to park on a federal road, so if [they] could please keep driving or pull off." WELL... That B!^$% looked at me with every foul bone in her body and smartly said, "Um... Aaaand you are!?" Wooooo... There went all my patience for people enjoying the park. I yelled at the woman that I was from the state of Montana where I know it's ILLEGAL to park on any road maintained within park boundaries and that if she didn't move her vehicle RIGHT THEN I would report her license plate number to the nearest park official I came across. She continued to foul mouth me back saying I was being ridiculous, and as I walked away (still yelling), people inside their cars who had heard the whole argument began to clap their support for me. Sooo... I got back into the truck, relayed the story to Kev, who was ever so proud, and within seconds traffic began to go forward again.
Fortunately, we haven't had a run-in since then. At least, not one bad enough to rile us up too much. Either we're becoming more adept at accepting asinine people, or more adept at avoiding them. Anyway... I digress... :)
We've really found a niche here, and have already made plans to return for another summer. Kevin's ultimate goals of becoming a fly fishing guide mean at least one more grunt year as a shop boy before any promotion. I have learned that full-time retail is not my thing. Although highly proficient at it ("Why, yes, let me show you which fly to throw on the Madison..."), previous employment as a cruise ship singer has spoiled me. In that life, working 3 hours was a lot. And the pay isn't even comparable. So, while the summer season is in the early stages of wrapping up, I plan to contact the local radio station for possible voiceover work (which has been a side job of mine for quite sometime now... In fact, those in the Florida network of grocer Piggly Wiggly have heard my 'weekly specials' a few weeks at a time). There ARE two local theatres in town. However, one is heavily Mormon influenced, and the other dress in red cowboy shirts, jeans, boots, and hats prance around town every night at 6:30 singing "Home on the Range." I wouldn't want to be a diva by saying there's no way in Hell I'd do that. So, hopefully with a lighter schedule next year, I'll be able to express my art by writing more music and performing the local venues here. To be honest, Kevin makes me happier than anyone or anything I've ever done, so any silly thing to pay our modest bills will suffice.
On that note, I am excited to say I have a short 2 month contract on the ships this fall. I will be replacing the soprano that actually replaced ME back in January (she's been on for a LONG time!). I'll be heading out October 9th flying to Rome (one of my favorite European cities - or cities in general!). For the first month, I'll see welcomed familiar sites in the Mediterranean (Greek food and Turkish hookahs here I come), but then head to the unfamiliar with a trip through the Suez Canal to Egypt, India, and the Seychelles finally flying back December 2nd out of Cape Town, South Africa. I am certainly looking forward to my spoiled lifestyle AND the traveling. I have been blessed with the bug, and I'm just itching to get around the world some more. Kevin plans to finish the month of October here, then move us back to NC so he can start at REI in Asheville again. We originally planned to go to Colorado for the winter, but for multiple reasons decided it best to head towards home for the Holidays. I couldn't be happier being closer to family for Christmas and it'll give Kevin and I a chance to visit with everyone we love.
So as we enjoy the rest of our blissful summer, I hope those reading are finding joy in their summers as well!
p.s. I love how many of my friends have started blogs! As if Facebook stalking weren't enough, now I get the inside scoop! Keep it up my blogging buds!
Saturday, June 19, 2010
A Sort of Rant. Sorta.
I never realized that when you work a conventional 9-5 job, you're busy... all the time... I've been meaning to update my blog for weeks now, but I've hardly had the time or energy to devote to writing it. Our precious days off are spent playing all over the park, or doing mindless chores that didn't get taken care of the previous week. Of course (let's be honest) time management plays a big factor concerning my weekly schedule. So I'm hoping, since we've now struck our daily work routine, I'll be able to get more things done. Indeed, it seems I work better in completing projects the busier I am. On the other hand, give me 5 months to be unemployed and I will hardly have had anything to show for all that time off – besides some weight gain due to inactivity!
Work, for the most part, is a joy. Kevin and I work for Bud Lilly's Fly and Trout Shop. On a totally unbiased front, we work for the most popular and well known fly store in Montana, if not nationally, if not the world. We have people come in and just stand in the doorway taking everything in before snapping some pictures, and then buying a souvenier tee shirt or ballcap. It's pretty cool being part of a location that's been around for years, having been started by a forefather of the sport of fly fishing – Mr. Bud Lilly himself (no, we haven't met him yet – he sold the store almost 25 years ago and only every so often steps in). However, being a woman in a completely male-dominated world has its disadvantages (besides the co-owner of the store, I'm the only woman, and by far the youngest of the group). For one, I'm the only one with the desire to keep the place well organized, cleaned, and straightened. That includes doing restock every morning, refolding clothes, zipping up jackets, cleaning the bathroom, washing windows, retagging items, dusting shevles, etc, etc, etc. Being OCD, I enjoy every aspect of it, but it can be frustrating when the rest of the shop boys stand around the counter shooting the shit trading fish stories with all the customers while I'm working away.
Then there's the fact that I'll never be taken seriously as a valid source of fishing information. For example, a man came into the store the other night. Kevin and I were the only ones working at the time, and he was already preoccupied with another customer. I asked the man if he had any questions, and he politely smiled and said no. As I continued to watch him, the man started to move closer and closer to Kevin and his customer. The second Kevin finished his sale, the waiting man asked HIM where the best fishing waters were. I had to shake my head and laugh at the fact that that man thought I knew nothing. Granted, I'm still new to the whole fly fishing world, but I'm a quick learner, hard worker, and a damn good listener. I could have told the man verbatim what Kevin spouted out as good fishing in the area. Barbara (the aforementioned female boss) assured me it wouldn't be the last time, and already I can say she was right. I get men on the phone all the time asking if there's 'someone else there' that could answer some fishing questions for them. I'm surprised myself that I know so much information about something I never even knew was a big thing 6 months ago. But it's always fun and challenging getting into new things and trying to be the best at it. I've already caught a huge 21"/5 lbs. rainbow trout that was the envy of Kevin, and is turning out to be the bane of his existence. He hasn't gotten that lucky yet and the other shop boys make sure he knows he's being out-fished by his novice girlfriend! hehe....
My last sore spot, shall we say, at the store is a coworker named Bob. Now, Bob is 84-years old. I have to keep telling myself this in order to get beyond frustrated. Bob has been working at Bud Lilly's for over 20 years. He's a stubborn old man, completely set in his ways. He has the same schedule every day; coffee and a hashbrown at McDonald's, work at the store for a couple hours, coffee at Ernie's (our delicious local deli), work for a few more hours, lunch of a grilled chicken salad and coffee at Arby's (for $4.56 because he gets the senior discount) with sometimes a splurge of an apple turnover, work for just a few more hours, home for a nap, dinner that his wife cooks (who never leaves the house and hasn't been into the Park since the fire.... of 1988), nap, peanut butter and jelly sandwich, bedtime, etc ad naseum. Bob has taken to picking on me. Our boss' keep using the excuse that he doesn't know better nor realize he's using a condescending tone with me. I would love to believe them, other than the fact that he always choses to pick on me when no one else is around. I've been yelled at for practicing my knots (for fishing lines - a task that I was assigned to do by my boss), for interrupting one of his sales (he was trying to convince a 23-year old guy that he needed a pair of $219 binoculars when I politely offered to show the guy a far less expensive brand), and the kicker - for selling Bear Spray wrong. I was using the manufacturer's spill on how to correctly use the spray once a bear was in sight. Well, apparently, according to Bob, that's not the right way to use it. I had had it by this point, so I yelled at the old man saying that neither of us had experience during the real thing, and the only valid information I felt correctly disclosing was the trial and tested directions given by the inventors of the product. He's an old salesman of the '50's who still has that exact mentality. He hounds customers as soon as they come into the store, stalking them, and standing over their shoulders - he's THAT guy. Our boss' deal with him because he's been around for so long, but since Bob isn't very familiar with computers he costs the shop a lot of money every season. The other day he forgot to ring up a few things, totaling $50 or so. Apparently, it happens all the time. Anyway... I'm a completely competent, organized, and hard working individual. For Bob to talk down to me in so many instances, frustrates me to no end. Especially since he NEVER picks on Kevin or anyone else at the shop for that matter. He was raised in a time when women weren't all that important to society - I get that. But that doesn't excuse his tone towards me. So every morning, I breathe a deep breath and enter the store, smile and say good morning to the old dude, and try to keep myself as busy as possible to avoid having any confrontations. Don't get me wrong, I'm having a great time at the shop, feeling like one of the guys, and getting into this new world. I just wish our days off weren't the EXACT same as old Bob... ho hum...
Our days off are in the middle of the week - Wednesday and Thursday. At first, I was bummed that we'd be giving up our true weekends to work. But now, having had a few 'mid weekends' off, I like the fact that we'll spend our two days with less traffic, tourists, and crowds. Every chance we get, we're in the park ready to see and experience something new.
Every kid that enters the Yellowstone gates gets a 'Ranger Check List' or something, that has a list of all the animals you're liable seeing. I want one. I'd be able to vouch for almost every being on there; black and brown bear, elk, wolves, coyotes, bald eagle, female moose, buffalo, GRIZZLY... The one animal we've yet to come across - a male moose. That's about it. Grizzly bear was checked off just a few days ago when Kevin and I took a sight seeing day of the park. We were in the northwest corner near Lamar Valley when we hit a huge line of traffic. According to some passerbys, there was a large grizzly walking on the road a half mile up. Surely enough, once enough cars as slowly passed by, we were 4 feet from a full grown grizzly bear. It was on Kevin's side, so as he drove and prayed, I snapped pictures through the open window. It was exhilarating. The only downside to the whole experience, was the fact that there were people outside their cars, walking along, taking pictures. People are idiots - but more on that later...
Just thought I'd give a little update since I felt like I haven't kept the greatest contact with most of those who read this! You have no idea how much you use internet until you don't have it... :(
Sending all my love from out West!
Work, for the most part, is a joy. Kevin and I work for Bud Lilly's Fly and Trout Shop. On a totally unbiased front, we work for the most popular and well known fly store in Montana, if not nationally, if not the world. We have people come in and just stand in the doorway taking everything in before snapping some pictures, and then buying a souvenier tee shirt or ballcap. It's pretty cool being part of a location that's been around for years, having been started by a forefather of the sport of fly fishing – Mr. Bud Lilly himself (no, we haven't met him yet – he sold the store almost 25 years ago and only every so often steps in). However, being a woman in a completely male-dominated world has its disadvantages (besides the co-owner of the store, I'm the only woman, and by far the youngest of the group). For one, I'm the only one with the desire to keep the place well organized, cleaned, and straightened. That includes doing restock every morning, refolding clothes, zipping up jackets, cleaning the bathroom, washing windows, retagging items, dusting shevles, etc, etc, etc. Being OCD, I enjoy every aspect of it, but it can be frustrating when the rest of the shop boys stand around the counter shooting the shit trading fish stories with all the customers while I'm working away.
Then there's the fact that I'll never be taken seriously as a valid source of fishing information. For example, a man came into the store the other night. Kevin and I were the only ones working at the time, and he was already preoccupied with another customer. I asked the man if he had any questions, and he politely smiled and said no. As I continued to watch him, the man started to move closer and closer to Kevin and his customer. The second Kevin finished his sale, the waiting man asked HIM where the best fishing waters were. I had to shake my head and laugh at the fact that that man thought I knew nothing. Granted, I'm still new to the whole fly fishing world, but I'm a quick learner, hard worker, and a damn good listener. I could have told the man verbatim what Kevin spouted out as good fishing in the area. Barbara (the aforementioned female boss) assured me it wouldn't be the last time, and already I can say she was right. I get men on the phone all the time asking if there's 'someone else there' that could answer some fishing questions for them. I'm surprised myself that I know so much information about something I never even knew was a big thing 6 months ago. But it's always fun and challenging getting into new things and trying to be the best at it. I've already caught a huge 21"/5 lbs. rainbow trout that was the envy of Kevin, and is turning out to be the bane of his existence. He hasn't gotten that lucky yet and the other shop boys make sure he knows he's being out-fished by his novice girlfriend! hehe....
My last sore spot, shall we say, at the store is a coworker named Bob. Now, Bob is 84-years old. I have to keep telling myself this in order to get beyond frustrated. Bob has been working at Bud Lilly's for over 20 years. He's a stubborn old man, completely set in his ways. He has the same schedule every day; coffee and a hashbrown at McDonald's, work at the store for a couple hours, coffee at Ernie's (our delicious local deli), work for a few more hours, lunch of a grilled chicken salad and coffee at Arby's (for $4.56 because he gets the senior discount) with sometimes a splurge of an apple turnover, work for just a few more hours, home for a nap, dinner that his wife cooks (who never leaves the house and hasn't been into the Park since the fire.... of 1988), nap, peanut butter and jelly sandwich, bedtime, etc ad naseum. Bob has taken to picking on me. Our boss' keep using the excuse that he doesn't know better nor realize he's using a condescending tone with me. I would love to believe them, other than the fact that he always choses to pick on me when no one else is around. I've been yelled at for practicing my knots (for fishing lines - a task that I was assigned to do by my boss), for interrupting one of his sales (he was trying to convince a 23-year old guy that he needed a pair of $219 binoculars when I politely offered to show the guy a far less expensive brand), and the kicker - for selling Bear Spray wrong. I was using the manufacturer's spill on how to correctly use the spray once a bear was in sight. Well, apparently, according to Bob, that's not the right way to use it. I had had it by this point, so I yelled at the old man saying that neither of us had experience during the real thing, and the only valid information I felt correctly disclosing was the trial and tested directions given by the inventors of the product. He's an old salesman of the '50's who still has that exact mentality. He hounds customers as soon as they come into the store, stalking them, and standing over their shoulders - he's THAT guy. Our boss' deal with him because he's been around for so long, but since Bob isn't very familiar with computers he costs the shop a lot of money every season. The other day he forgot to ring up a few things, totaling $50 or so. Apparently, it happens all the time. Anyway... I'm a completely competent, organized, and hard working individual. For Bob to talk down to me in so many instances, frustrates me to no end. Especially since he NEVER picks on Kevin or anyone else at the shop for that matter. He was raised in a time when women weren't all that important to society - I get that. But that doesn't excuse his tone towards me. So every morning, I breathe a deep breath and enter the store, smile and say good morning to the old dude, and try to keep myself as busy as possible to avoid having any confrontations. Don't get me wrong, I'm having a great time at the shop, feeling like one of the guys, and getting into this new world. I just wish our days off weren't the EXACT same as old Bob... ho hum...
Our days off are in the middle of the week - Wednesday and Thursday. At first, I was bummed that we'd be giving up our true weekends to work. But now, having had a few 'mid weekends' off, I like the fact that we'll spend our two days with less traffic, tourists, and crowds. Every chance we get, we're in the park ready to see and experience something new.
Every kid that enters the Yellowstone gates gets a 'Ranger Check List' or something, that has a list of all the animals you're liable seeing. I want one. I'd be able to vouch for almost every being on there; black and brown bear, elk, wolves, coyotes, bald eagle, female moose, buffalo, GRIZZLY... The one animal we've yet to come across - a male moose. That's about it. Grizzly bear was checked off just a few days ago when Kevin and I took a sight seeing day of the park. We were in the northwest corner near Lamar Valley when we hit a huge line of traffic. According to some passerbys, there was a large grizzly walking on the road a half mile up. Surely enough, once enough cars as slowly passed by, we were 4 feet from a full grown grizzly bear. It was on Kevin's side, so as he drove and prayed, I snapped pictures through the open window. It was exhilarating. The only downside to the whole experience, was the fact that there were people outside their cars, walking along, taking pictures. People are idiots - but more on that later...
Just thought I'd give a little update since I felt like I haven't kept the greatest contact with most of those who read this! You have no idea how much you use internet until you don't have it... :(
Sending all my love from out West!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
W. Yellowstone
West Yellowstone
State: Montana
County: Gallatin
Population: 1200
Elevation: 6,663 feet
Time Zone: Mountain (MST)
Zip/Area code: 59758/408
Summer high/low: 78°F/41°F
Winter high/low: 24°F/1°F
Fun facts we've discovered so far:
Can snow at any moment, any time (including middle of summer).
Largest gateway to the park, catering to thousands upon thousands of visitors during the high season summer months every year.
There's 2 averagely small grocery stores as compared to 7 fly shops.
Because of the limited (but sufficient) selection of food items, all locals make lists for their big trip into the city of Bozeman (where gas is $0.30 cheaper per gallon) about once or twice a month.
The McDonald's here (one of 5 chains: Dairy Queen, KFC, Arbys, and Subway), is the nation's most expensive, serving value meals that are $2-$3 more expensive than most others. And also, we are told it's the highest paying service job at $12.50/hour... A wage that would fair very well out here! ALSO we discovered their free wifi that works perfectly from the truck in the parking lot... Thank you Mr. McDonald!
Everyone in town limits has a post office box – no mailboxes.
Most restaurants/shops close during the winter months.
Kevin and I are the youngest people working at Bud Lily's.
Bud Lily's is a legendary shop among fly fishermen, whose namesake was one of the forefathers of the sport. We already have seen tourists taking pictures of our sign, and buying the namesake t-shirts.
The water coming from our kitchen faucet is the cleanest, freshest tasting water I have ever had the pleasure of drinking.
Buffalo are more abundant than any other animal out here, and there are HOT PINK road signs to warn drivers.
There is a world class/world-renowned cross-country ski trail system in walking distance from downtown (olympic athletes train here).
Loads of famous people come through here on their way to camping, fishing, or any other outdoor activity. , the Tennessee Titans coach and family, Yvonne Choinard (spelling? The founder of Patagonia),
The Dairy Queen, which opened 2 days ago and is located right across the street from our store, apparently has the best business in town! Already we've seen crowds of people that have virtually come from nowhere lining the block to get their dipped cones.
More people (read: tourists) die from buffalo-related accidents than bear attacks every year.
A couple years ago, a tourist dad put his small boy on top of a buffalo in order to get a 'kodak' moment... The bull took off with the kid toppling over the backside, hitting the pavement, but fortunately surviving: these are the stories the locals get amused over!
The trash cans that are on every block are animal proof: which means their tourist proof as well, since they have a hard time determining how to open them. Before the town decided to put TRASH on the outside of the green metal structures, people thought they were mailboxes, and unknowingly trashed their souvenir postcards and letters.
The state of Montana does not have a sales tax (woo hoo!), but the town of West Yellowstone does, labeled a 'Resort Tax.' Even still, it's only 3% and we can get the local discount that pretty much covers it.
I'm sure there'll be many more fun facts to come. The town may be small, but there's lot's to learn of this little place – its history, importance, local businesses, and local legends.
We're both acclimating well, having settled into a work routine and having set up our cute little cabin. Since the season hasn't officially started (Memorial Day weekend being the beginning), we're still getting to enjoy the town without the hassle of (too many) visitors. As the weather improves (the past few days having been GLORIOUS), more of the towns people are out and about walking the sidewalks and enjoying the cool mountain air and crisp sunshine. But we're looking forward to seeing the town bustling with more people.
Kevin bought his Montana fishing license the other day for the season and since, he's been out every day on the waters. It's quite adorable really. Having an extra set of everything fly fishing (including waders, boots, rods, fleece pants, etc), I've been following along and learning. The first time I got in the freezing waters of the Madison, wading around and NOT getting wet, I was quite exhilarated and excited about the prospect of what we'll be doing this summer. Set against an absolutely breath-taking background, I look forward to relaxing, drinking a beer, and being in the river. I can say, I never thought I'd be in this lifestyle, but you never know how much you might enjoy something until you try! Kevin is an excellent and patient teacher, whom I'm pretty sure secretly relishes in the fact that he gets to school me on all things fish: oh Obi wan!
We also made a trip into Yellowstone last week, visiting Old Faithful and the Canyon. I was in awe of the landscape my own country has to offer, and thankful that I get to explore more of the area over the next few months! I'm an avid picture taker, even capturing a charging buffalo. He was going after a lady that was literally 3 feet away from him, out of her car, taking pictures herself (we were in the car, driving past). Luckily for the lady the bull relinquished, but succeeded in scaring not only her, but both of us as well! It's sad and stupid how some people can't wrap their brains around the wildness and danger of roaming (very large) animals. Our day trip was excellent though, and a great precursor to more adventures to come in the park!
That's life so far! More to come of our adventures, tourist watching, work stories, and else, etc, etc, etc...
State: Montana
County: Gallatin
Population: 1200
Elevation: 6,663 feet
Time Zone: Mountain (MST)
Zip/Area code: 59758/408
Summer high/low: 78°F/41°F
Winter high/low: 24°F/1°F
Fun facts we've discovered so far:
Can snow at any moment, any time (including middle of summer).
Largest gateway to the park, catering to thousands upon thousands of visitors during the high season summer months every year.
There's 2 averagely small grocery stores as compared to 7 fly shops.
Because of the limited (but sufficient) selection of food items, all locals make lists for their big trip into the city of Bozeman (where gas is $0.30 cheaper per gallon) about once or twice a month.
The McDonald's here (one of 5 chains: Dairy Queen, KFC, Arbys, and Subway), is the nation's most expensive, serving value meals that are $2-$3 more expensive than most others. And also, we are told it's the highest paying service job at $12.50/hour... A wage that would fair very well out here! ALSO we discovered their free wifi that works perfectly from the truck in the parking lot... Thank you Mr. McDonald!
Everyone in town limits has a post office box – no mailboxes.
Most restaurants/shops close during the winter months.
Kevin and I are the youngest people working at Bud Lily's.
Bud Lily's is a legendary shop among fly fishermen, whose namesake was one of the forefathers of the sport. We already have seen tourists taking pictures of our sign, and buying the namesake t-shirts.
The water coming from our kitchen faucet is the cleanest, freshest tasting water I have ever had the pleasure of drinking.
Buffalo are more abundant than any other animal out here, and there are HOT PINK road signs to warn drivers.
There is a world class/world-renowned cross-country ski trail system in walking distance from downtown (olympic athletes train here).
Loads of famous people come through here on their way to camping, fishing, or any other outdoor activity. , the Tennessee Titans coach and family, Yvonne Choinard (spelling? The founder of Patagonia),
The Dairy Queen, which opened 2 days ago and is located right across the street from our store, apparently has the best business in town! Already we've seen crowds of people that have virtually come from nowhere lining the block to get their dipped cones.
More people (read: tourists) die from buffalo-related accidents than bear attacks every year.
A couple years ago, a tourist dad put his small boy on top of a buffalo in order to get a 'kodak' moment... The bull took off with the kid toppling over the backside, hitting the pavement, but fortunately surviving: these are the stories the locals get amused over!
The trash cans that are on every block are animal proof: which means their tourist proof as well, since they have a hard time determining how to open them. Before the town decided to put TRASH on the outside of the green metal structures, people thought they were mailboxes, and unknowingly trashed their souvenir postcards and letters.
The state of Montana does not have a sales tax (woo hoo!), but the town of West Yellowstone does, labeled a 'Resort Tax.' Even still, it's only 3% and we can get the local discount that pretty much covers it.
I'm sure there'll be many more fun facts to come. The town may be small, but there's lot's to learn of this little place – its history, importance, local businesses, and local legends.
We're both acclimating well, having settled into a work routine and having set up our cute little cabin. Since the season hasn't officially started (Memorial Day weekend being the beginning), we're still getting to enjoy the town without the hassle of (too many) visitors. As the weather improves (the past few days having been GLORIOUS), more of the towns people are out and about walking the sidewalks and enjoying the cool mountain air and crisp sunshine. But we're looking forward to seeing the town bustling with more people.
Kevin bought his Montana fishing license the other day for the season and since, he's been out every day on the waters. It's quite adorable really. Having an extra set of everything fly fishing (including waders, boots, rods, fleece pants, etc), I've been following along and learning. The first time I got in the freezing waters of the Madison, wading around and NOT getting wet, I was quite exhilarated and excited about the prospect of what we'll be doing this summer. Set against an absolutely breath-taking background, I look forward to relaxing, drinking a beer, and being in the river. I can say, I never thought I'd be in this lifestyle, but you never know how much you might enjoy something until you try! Kevin is an excellent and patient teacher, whom I'm pretty sure secretly relishes in the fact that he gets to school me on all things fish: oh Obi wan!
We also made a trip into Yellowstone last week, visiting Old Faithful and the Canyon. I was in awe of the landscape my own country has to offer, and thankful that I get to explore more of the area over the next few months! I'm an avid picture taker, even capturing a charging buffalo. He was going after a lady that was literally 3 feet away from him, out of her car, taking pictures herself (we were in the car, driving past). Luckily for the lady the bull relinquished, but succeeded in scaring not only her, but both of us as well! It's sad and stupid how some people can't wrap their brains around the wildness and danger of roaming (very large) animals. Our day trip was excellent though, and a great precursor to more adventures to come in the park!
That's life so far! More to come of our adventures, tourist watching, work stories, and else, etc, etc, etc...
Sunday, May 9, 2010
No internet = no new posts
In order to go somewhere with free wireless internet we need a public library card. In order to get a public library card, we need a post office box. In order to get a post office box we need a copy of our lease to prove residency in West Yellowstone. In order to get THAT, we need to hound our landlord into giving us one. In order to hound him, we need to make a few phone calls.
Needless to say, it's a process. BUT... first step is done, we have a paper to take to the post office to prove we our semi-permanent residents here. So, first thing tomorrow morning we're headed to get our box, then to get our library cards! THEN... oh joyful free wireless internet here I come!
We can definitely do without having it at the house (we both have smart phones capable of getting online), but once we run out of How I Met Your Mother episodes (I have seasons 1-5 bought in China for $5 TOTAL... And the show we HIGHLY recommend), it's gonna get pretty boring around the cabin.
However, we DO realize that once the weather gets better (which should be here in the next couple weeks - although they got their last 8' snow storm last year JUNE 19TH!!), we know we won't be in the cabin too much. We are LITERALLY a 2 minute drive (if that) to the west entrance of the park, and are 2 hours from a ton of 'out west attractions.' In fact, tomorrow we both have the day off so we're headed to see Old Faithful. I CAN'T WAIT!!!! We'll be buying a season long park pass for $60, then taking a couple pack lunches into the beauty and grandeur.
We still can't believe we actually live here. I'll be sure to write more on our little town later (complete with pictures), and write about our cabin, workplace, hot spots, and view!
P.S. It's Mother's Day, so this post would not be complete without a shout out to the most amazing woman I know. It's true that the older I get, the more I appreciate all that she has done for me, my siblings, and my family as a whole. I hope to be half the woman she is to my future kids (maybe without the whole 'purposely shutting her leopard print dress in the JAG car door when picking us up from school' thing). I love you, Momma! And to all the incredible 'moms' in my life that have been/are there for me: Grandma, Mother Kat, my Aunts, my new Mama Cindy, etc etc etc... I am one lucky gal.
Needless to say, it's a process. BUT... first step is done, we have a paper to take to the post office to prove we our semi-permanent residents here. So, first thing tomorrow morning we're headed to get our box, then to get our library cards! THEN... oh joyful free wireless internet here I come!
We can definitely do without having it at the house (we both have smart phones capable of getting online), but once we run out of How I Met Your Mother episodes (I have seasons 1-5 bought in China for $5 TOTAL... And the show we HIGHLY recommend), it's gonna get pretty boring around the cabin.
However, we DO realize that once the weather gets better (which should be here in the next couple weeks - although they got their last 8' snow storm last year JUNE 19TH!!), we know we won't be in the cabin too much. We are LITERALLY a 2 minute drive (if that) to the west entrance of the park, and are 2 hours from a ton of 'out west attractions.' In fact, tomorrow we both have the day off so we're headed to see Old Faithful. I CAN'T WAIT!!!! We'll be buying a season long park pass for $60, then taking a couple pack lunches into the beauty and grandeur.
We still can't believe we actually live here. I'll be sure to write more on our little town later (complete with pictures), and write about our cabin, workplace, hot spots, and view!
P.S. It's Mother's Day, so this post would not be complete without a shout out to the most amazing woman I know. It's true that the older I get, the more I appreciate all that she has done for me, my siblings, and my family as a whole. I hope to be half the woman she is to my future kids (maybe without the whole 'purposely shutting her leopard print dress in the JAG car door when picking us up from school' thing). I love you, Momma! And to all the incredible 'moms' in my life that have been/are there for me: Grandma, Mother Kat, my Aunts, my new Mama Cindy, etc etc etc... I am one lucky gal.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Trek West Part Three
On our way to Jackson, Wyoming now. We had originally planned just to do a drive by if we could, but circumstances caused us to book a last minute room at a hostel there. I am more than delighted with this since, from what I hear, Jackson is an amazing place. My brother actually spent some time there a few summers ago, and indeed it seems every outdoorsman of sorts has pilgrimaged there at one time or another. Not only that, but we'll be doing it hostel style which I haven't done since my backpacking days in Europe 3 years ago. Traveling in hostels was definitely one of the many amazing experiences that I had and such a great way to meet fascinating people, and I'm psyched to be doing it with such an amazing background. It should be around an eight hour drive from where we were in Colorado, but then we're home free with only 4 hours left to go till our final destination – our future home. As much as I'm ready to already be in our cozy little cabin, I'm excited for the last minute adventure. Besides, we can't really get to our place anyway. Reason? A freak blizzard. Since we'll be living right outside the Yellowstone Park's west entrance (hence the name of our town, West Yellowstone), the shortest and most direct way to reach the town is through the park. Unfortunately, the park is closed because of poor road conditions due to Mother Nature dumping a late April snow. Our landlord called a couple days ago and asked when we'd be arriving, and when we told him the next day he said it'd be best to wait it out down there and come later in the weekend. He also assured us that this wasn't the norm for this time of the year. As of yesterday, they had 8 inches of snow with a forecast of at least 7 more. We knew it'd be cold when we got there, but little did we know it'd be white out conditions! I immediately stressed. I did not pack my week bag for this. Maybe, if I put every article clothing on at the same time I'd be fine, but it wouldn't make for a very comfortable MK. We were already spending the day in Boulder, Colorado (a mere 2 hours from where we were staying) when we got that call, so Kevin took me to REI, outfitting me in the appropriate attire: a mid-layer lightweight fleece base top and bottom, some wind and water resistant shell pants, and gloves. (side note: Casey – Kevin's bud and my new friend! - has a killer roommate who GAVE me some waterproof boots – hollah!) Whew... I was ready now! I've actually been wearing the base top for a couple days now since we've had weather in the 20s here. It snowed off and on all day yesterday. And when it was on, it was ON – dumping snow. Kevin and his buddy, Casey (our gracious host), actually went fishing in it. I opted out to stay indoors and go to the public library and get my internet fix.
It's funny/interesting how normal everything is when it snows here. Coming from Western North Carolina where the infrastructure completely shuts down with 2 inches of snow, these people thrive on driving to the local pub when there's 4 feet on the ground with more on the way. It's inspiring really. Guys in NC – we're wusses. Then again, they are way more equipped and proficient about maintaining the roads. And snow is kinda their life. Casey was just dying to go down the local ski resort mountain, but unfortunately, it's all shut down. That's another intriguing fact about this place – Winter Park, Colorado. There's a huge ski resort that operates and caters to over 14,000 at one time during the peak of the winter season – which finished up about 2 weeks ago (too bad they missed this storm). Now it's like a ghost town, with just the locals, who have worked their butts off during the season and are enjoying a nice break. Most of them just go backcountry skiing or snowboarding, so not having the ski lifts isn't too big of a deal. We saw most of them last night at the bar.
All in all, my first impression of Colorado is that it is kick ass – everything I imagined it would be! Our day we spent in Boulder was amazing (enhanced by the near perfect weather we were greeted with). The scenery is to die for. I've filled my belly with some delicious brews the Rockies had to offer. And the company couldn't be beat. Casey really showed us everything his imposing little mountain town had to offer (except, of course, the slopes but we'll come back for that)!
Despite our fun stay, we're ready to be back on the road again, and back to driving to Montana. We'll be home tomorrow!
It's funny/interesting how normal everything is when it snows here. Coming from Western North Carolina where the infrastructure completely shuts down with 2 inches of snow, these people thrive on driving to the local pub when there's 4 feet on the ground with more on the way. It's inspiring really. Guys in NC – we're wusses. Then again, they are way more equipped and proficient about maintaining the roads. And snow is kinda their life. Casey was just dying to go down the local ski resort mountain, but unfortunately, it's all shut down. That's another intriguing fact about this place – Winter Park, Colorado. There's a huge ski resort that operates and caters to over 14,000 at one time during the peak of the winter season – which finished up about 2 weeks ago (too bad they missed this storm). Now it's like a ghost town, with just the locals, who have worked their butts off during the season and are enjoying a nice break. Most of them just go backcountry skiing or snowboarding, so not having the ski lifts isn't too big of a deal. We saw most of them last night at the bar.
All in all, my first impression of Colorado is that it is kick ass – everything I imagined it would be! Our day we spent in Boulder was amazing (enhanced by the near perfect weather we were greeted with). The scenery is to die for. I've filled my belly with some delicious brews the Rockies had to offer. And the company couldn't be beat. Casey really showed us everything his imposing little mountain town had to offer (except, of course, the slopes but we'll come back for that)!
Despite our fun stay, we're ready to be back on the road again, and back to driving to Montana. We'll be home tomorrow!
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