Thursday, May 19, 2011

airport delay musings and the comforts of home

In retrospect- I realize that I did have some interesting contents in my larger carry on thinking about it.
Sets of lacy underwear, a good supply of chocolate, a camera and my notebook computer were indeed the best and majority of items. :)
though wonder what someone would think had they searched or inspected my bag. ;)
But really since arriving home about 2 days ago, I am so happy to be back to the comfort of my home. My bed. My doggie and companion Sasha- privacy. Peace and quiet and on no real schedule until next week.
I wonder, how many of us really sit and take a moment or two to appreciate being home. What you have and what you take for granted. How good it is. To appreciate what you have.
What others do not have- a roof over your head, food and living in a safe town or city or neighbourhood.
To realize that day to day many of us take these things for granted.
It seems simple enough on one level --but really is it?
Having being about to travel to many places in the world to experience many things, I realize this more each day and each trip. I wish every person in the Western world could travel and learn this very important lesson.
By Western World I mean, North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand where many of us are fortunate to have a good quality of life.
So count your blessings.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

No rhyme or reisling, full moon and security carrying on

OK its been a long day and there was at least one instance I wanted to hurt someone. I get to SFO airport allowing plenty of time more than 2 hours before my 1:05 pm flight. Impatiently standing in line and all I can think about is 'I need to pee now'. Get to the counter at last to find we are delayed and won't be boarding until 245pm. Argh. So Westjet gives me a $10 meal voucher- the up side.
I got for a walkabout about my ladies room run. then have my lunch and make my way to security between 145-210 pm. Security refuses me entry and tells me that I have too many personal items- Bulls**. I explain I have the exact same number as when I arrived and it is accepted on my airline. I am told that is the rule for the airport and that I must get an agent to escort through security. (crap)
I am not going to return to counter to stand in large line!!!
So tell the girl well my bag will be over weight if I stuff all in one bag....and once through security going to pull it apart back to how I had it. Carry on bag Nazi!
So when  I finally get to the gate I tell the agent there my experience- he is very surprised and has not heard of this before! And looks at my carry ons and says they are fine. Nothing wrong. So I am right.
Will call airline tomorrow and speak to someone to ask them what procedure I should follow if ever in this situation again.
Should I ask to speak to their supervisor?  have them page an airline agent?
Is there someone to complain or give my feedback to?
And tonight I discover, we have a full moon! Maybe there's why there are people acting odd, strange or being more erratic than usual.
So at least the people on the flight were pleasant. I ask for wine when  the cart starts coming around. Am told it is in the next cart. It comes and the wine is warm the attendant apologises for the wine being warm. Then says I don't have to pay for it! THANK YOU! hey just give me ice i Tell him! uhh
it is good to be home!!

Monday, May 9, 2011

the view from my hotel room window



Breakfast

Do Not Disturb, Berry Nice Breakfast and the singing behind the door

So breakfast arrived about 10 minutes early which is fine as my stomach was talking. A large bowl of Oatmeal which easily could of fed 2 people IMHO- and a bowl of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries. (seasonal berries $12) Soy Milk on the side and a large pot of hot water so I can make my own tea! (always travel with a bit of my own tea since the quality varies from place to place) and a nice big glass of ice water.:)
(photos to follow -LOL)
That reminds me I should have a read of the 2 newspapers that came on the breakfast table as well.
At some point I start to hear singing in the next room, these type of rooms with adjoining doors I find that you can hear people more in those rooms. (note to self request non adjoining) Anyways, this man singing wasn't too bad really, have heard worse. But he was no Chris Isaak. Still it was entertaining.:)
Finished breakfast and tea while watching a bit of Dr. Oz before getting a call from a friend.

I am thinking I should ask if they have a 'Do Not disturb' sign as I really do not need a knock on the door before 8:30 am. Like to enjoy my 'not having to get up early to run off somewhere' time.
Besides I don't really need to have my room service and would rather just ring housekeeping if I do need something.
Another lovely morning out there and I know I really should go for a walk outside.
Expecting another call in about 70 minutes approximately.
Should test drive the shower and dress - but again am in no hurry. Its so nice not to be on anyone's schedule.
Siesta are ok anytime you can get one.