I am blown away by Utah. Driving from the Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon I saw some of the most amazing scenery I've ever encountered.
After touring Bryce, I found myself comparing it to the Grand Canyon. The GC is, in fact, quite majestic. It's lovely. But it's just ... oh, I can't even put my finger on it. But I feel "guilty" for not being as fascinated with it as I think I should be. Yup, it's pretty. You bet, it's pretty cool. Now what?
But Utah, oh my. With the colors and the hoodoos and the arches. Maybe it's slightly more accessible, right there on the the side of the road, as you drive past and it's up-close and more personal than that vast, gorgeous canyon.
It's sort of like Brad Pitt and George Clooney: There's no denying they're both handsome and sexy, but for most people, one stands out over the other.
There must be a more adequate way to describe this! I wonder if I post a photo of each, you'll be kind enough to help me out.
July 22, 2009
July 21, 2009
Raining Cats and Dogs
Liz and I left the 114 degree climes of Las Vegas on Monday morning about 10 a.m. on our way to the Grand Canyon. It was already hot and we weren't sorry to see the neon behind us. We were tooling around in our PT Cruiser and heading southeast (?). Driving past Hoover Dam was cool; I've never been. Lake Mead looked a bit weird. Not quite clean, although it may have been the way the sky was reflecting on the water.
We had heard the forecast of scattered thunderstorms, but didn't think much about it. About 50 miles into Arizona, the Emergency Broadcast System broke into our Classics radio station to warn about flash flooding at mile 28 and back to the Nevada border. We took note, and were glad we were clear of it.
Then we took a closer look at what was ahead: Huge thunderclouds in the middle, obvious rain coming down in shadow from the clouds in that weird Charlton Heston way; a major duststorm to our right and beautiful clear skies to our left. We weren't sure what awaited us. Liz oohed and aahed at the lightning and I, who don't like it, just hoped it stayed on the horizon. I'm a flincher and that's all I need at 75 mph, thunder claps.
But we drove right into an incredible storm. I can't believe how hard it rained. It was one of those summer downpours that comes down so hard, it usually lasts only about 20 minutes. But not this one. We drove through a horrendous storm for 100 miles. Fortunately there wasn't a lot of traffic, and I was able to drive slowly and hydroplaned once. At one point, though, I had to pull over. I absolutely couldn't see a thing -- and Liz had to guide me to the shoulder because I wasn't sure there was one. It was kind of hairy, actually.
When we finally got to the Grand Canyon, six-plus hours after we left Vegas, it was clear again. Temps had dropped to the 60s and we got to walk around the Canyon, which is just stunning. Liz had the foresight to sign us up for a Sunset tour and so we got on a bus that stopped at some amazing vistas and we had a knowledgeable tour guide giving us the scoop on all the stuff. He knew that sunset was at 7:43 and said he was certain of only one thing: Not that we would be able to see it with all the clouds, but that it would, indeed, set.
We got a pretty nice sunset, but not the spectacular canyon colors we had hoped for. But we weren't terribly disappointed.
Liz booked us a room at the Bright Angel Lodge, a series of cabins along the rim of the canyon. We're about 15 yards from the edge, I'd guess (although at this point, if I were telling the story to Paul, he'd say: "You have no idea how far 15 yards is, do you?") *It's actually more like 100 feet. She got up at 5:30 a.m. to go on three-hour hike. I had the idea of sleeping a bit later and still enjoying the morning light in the Canyon, but apparently people who stay here don't sleep. They talk loudly and are out (and in and out and in) the door between 5 and 6:30. I finally got up, cleaned up our stuff and was outside and it was still just 7:45 a.m.
It's pretty here; it's peaceful; it's nice nature for a city girl. Next stop: Bryce Canyon.
We had heard the forecast of scattered thunderstorms, but didn't think much about it. About 50 miles into Arizona, the Emergency Broadcast System broke into our Classics radio station to warn about flash flooding at mile 28 and back to the Nevada border. We took note, and were glad we were clear of it.
Then we took a closer look at what was ahead: Huge thunderclouds in the middle, obvious rain coming down in shadow from the clouds in that weird Charlton Heston way; a major duststorm to our right and beautiful clear skies to our left. We weren't sure what awaited us. Liz oohed and aahed at the lightning and I, who don't like it, just hoped it stayed on the horizon. I'm a flincher and that's all I need at 75 mph, thunder claps.
But we drove right into an incredible storm. I can't believe how hard it rained. It was one of those summer downpours that comes down so hard, it usually lasts only about 20 minutes. But not this one. We drove through a horrendous storm for 100 miles. Fortunately there wasn't a lot of traffic, and I was able to drive slowly and hydroplaned once. At one point, though, I had to pull over. I absolutely couldn't see a thing -- and Liz had to guide me to the shoulder because I wasn't sure there was one. It was kind of hairy, actually.
When we finally got to the Grand Canyon, six-plus hours after we left Vegas, it was clear again. Temps had dropped to the 60s and we got to walk around the Canyon, which is just stunning. Liz had the foresight to sign us up for a Sunset tour and so we got on a bus that stopped at some amazing vistas and we had a knowledgeable tour guide giving us the scoop on all the stuff. He knew that sunset was at 7:43 and said he was certain of only one thing: Not that we would be able to see it with all the clouds, but that it would, indeed, set.
We got a pretty nice sunset, but not the spectacular canyon colors we had hoped for. But we weren't terribly disappointed.
Liz booked us a room at the Bright Angel Lodge, a series of cabins along the rim of the canyon. We're about 15 yards from the edge, I'd guess (although at this point, if I were telling the story to Paul, he'd say: "You have no idea how far 15 yards is, do you?") *It's actually more like 100 feet. She got up at 5:30 a.m. to go on three-hour hike. I had the idea of sleeping a bit later and still enjoying the morning light in the Canyon, but apparently people who stay here don't sleep. They talk loudly and are out (and in and out and in) the door between 5 and 6:30. I finally got up, cleaned up our stuff and was outside and it was still just 7:45 a.m.
It's pretty here; it's peaceful; it's nice nature for a city girl. Next stop: Bryce Canyon.
Vegas, Baby
One year to the weekend, coincidentally, I am back in Vegas. With a journalist, even. My friend Liz and I are taking a road trip. She has flown in from New York and we are spending two days in Vegas on our way to touring several Western National Parks. Vegas has not been immune from the financial crisis, and hotel rates were very cheap this July. Except for Saturday, July 18. I don't know why this is. But when the Stratsophere is charging upward of $125 a night on Saturday and $29 on Sunday, something is afoot.
So, our options slightly limited, we opted for the Golden Nugget. I've probably been to Vegas, what? two dozen times? and I've never been Downtown, much less stayed there. And for those of you who think the clientele in fancy Vegas -- Caesar's, Paris, Mandalay -- is downmarket, well you ain't seen nothin' till you've been down on Fremont street and in and out of the downtown casinos.
The Nugget is a lovely hotel. It's four-star, clean, spacious and comfortable. Our first night there, with the blackout curtains drawn, we slept something like 10 hours. It was gorgeous.
The people -- well that's a whole 'nother thing. It's actually kind of sad: The saggy, hard-looking and overweight showgirl types who have bad teeth and don't look a day under 50, although they probably are about 30. The dealers and cocktail waitresses who look like they're just trying to get through a shift. Hey, I know work isn't glamorous. And that kind of work really isn't. But there's usually an illusion about it. But not Downtown.
The upside of downtown for tourists is cheap tables and penny slots. (Although we discovered that coins seem to have gone out of fashion; now you play with -- and for -- tickets on the machines. Quieter, but not more fun.)
I played a few hands of blackjack at an empty $5 table and won about $35. It was a thrill. Liz, it turns out, has no idea how to play blackjack, and the whole thing amazed her. We played a little video poker (she doesn't know how to do that, either) and I taught her how to play video blackjack while we sat at some casino bar drinking our 99 cent margaritas and $2 Coronas. For those of you who saw "The Hangover" we definitely had the opposite experience. Were there two tamer people in town? (OK, two tamer people who weren't holding up "Repent Sinners" signs?)
I'm always excited when I get to Vegas and then after 36 hours, max, I'm ready to hit the road. The neon, especially downtown, is thrilling. The Fremont Street Experience is weird. The 114 degree temperatures I could do without. No matter who I go with, we always have grand plans, and end up shopping and eating and ready to bail on the place as soon as we can.
But Vegas was just the beginning ... now on to the Grand Canyon.
So, our options slightly limited, we opted for the Golden Nugget. I've probably been to Vegas, what? two dozen times? and I've never been Downtown, much less stayed there. And for those of you who think the clientele in fancy Vegas -- Caesar's, Paris, Mandalay -- is downmarket, well you ain't seen nothin' till you've been down on Fremont street and in and out of the downtown casinos.
The Nugget is a lovely hotel. It's four-star, clean, spacious and comfortable. Our first night there, with the blackout curtains drawn, we slept something like 10 hours. It was gorgeous.
The people -- well that's a whole 'nother thing. It's actually kind of sad: The saggy, hard-looking and overweight showgirl types who have bad teeth and don't look a day under 50, although they probably are about 30. The dealers and cocktail waitresses who look like they're just trying to get through a shift. Hey, I know work isn't glamorous. And that kind of work really isn't. But there's usually an illusion about it. But not Downtown.
The upside of downtown for tourists is cheap tables and penny slots. (Although we discovered that coins seem to have gone out of fashion; now you play with -- and for -- tickets on the machines. Quieter, but not more fun.)
I played a few hands of blackjack at an empty $5 table and won about $35. It was a thrill. Liz, it turns out, has no idea how to play blackjack, and the whole thing amazed her. We played a little video poker (she doesn't know how to do that, either) and I taught her how to play video blackjack while we sat at some casino bar drinking our 99 cent margaritas and $2 Coronas. For those of you who saw "The Hangover" we definitely had the opposite experience. Were there two tamer people in town? (OK, two tamer people who weren't holding up "Repent Sinners" signs?)
I'm always excited when I get to Vegas and then after 36 hours, max, I'm ready to hit the road. The neon, especially downtown, is thrilling. The Fremont Street Experience is weird. The 114 degree temperatures I could do without. No matter who I go with, we always have grand plans, and end up shopping and eating and ready to bail on the place as soon as we can.
But Vegas was just the beginning ... now on to the Grand Canyon.
Making Lemonade
I've been going through the stages of job-loss grief and have reached, I think, acceptance. I have no job. I have no immediate prospects for a job. What is it they say when the going gets tough? Exactly. So we're showing just how tough we are and we're going. I'm currently on a road trip (more in the next post) with an ex-Paris friend (as opposed to an ex-friend from Paris) and when this two week vacation ends, Paul and I are heading for Paris.
It's time to take a different perspective. Instead of thinking of all the things missing I'm doing my best to think of all the things I do have. Like time. And friends in France who will swap apartments with me. And the flexibility to disappear for five weeks at a time with Paul.
In the last few weeks I've happily ridden the coasters (OK just the one) at Six Flags in St Louis, enjoyed happy hour in an Irish bar while watching soccer, walked along the beach as often as I could, enjoyed concerts in the park and now I'm writing, contentedly, mere feet from the rim of the Grand Canyon.
Life is a state of mind, as much as anything. And I suppose it's true that oftentimes, other peoples' lives seem more appealing. I once asked someone not to help me change my life, but to deal with the one I have. And that's the best vision I can come up with.
So we're dealing -- and enjoying. In the last 12 months we've spent extended time in China and Hong Kong. Now we're going back to Europe. Keep an eye out for Adventures in Paris ... coming your way in August.
It's time to take a different perspective. Instead of thinking of all the things missing I'm doing my best to think of all the things I do have. Like time. And friends in France who will swap apartments with me. And the flexibility to disappear for five weeks at a time with Paul.
In the last few weeks I've happily ridden the coasters (OK just the one) at Six Flags in St Louis, enjoyed happy hour in an Irish bar while watching soccer, walked along the beach as often as I could, enjoyed concerts in the park and now I'm writing, contentedly, mere feet from the rim of the Grand Canyon.
Life is a state of mind, as much as anything. And I suppose it's true that oftentimes, other peoples' lives seem more appealing. I once asked someone not to help me change my life, but to deal with the one I have. And that's the best vision I can come up with.
So we're dealing -- and enjoying. In the last 12 months we've spent extended time in China and Hong Kong. Now we're going back to Europe. Keep an eye out for Adventures in Paris ... coming your way in August.
July 7, 2009
Blog Tweaks
If any of you notice the blog changing (and I'll wager none of you has) it's because we're trying a new venture with Paul, and I'm fiddling with the coding. So no, he isn't writing these posts, and if you see his picture on the blog ... it's only because I like the way he looks.
Leah
Leah
All I Want is a Newspaper
We are, not surprisingly, holdouts on the printed newspaper-in-our-hands front. We subscribe to the Los Angeles Times and now to the Long Beach Press-Telegram. While I do read a lot of news online, I like having the paper for a variety of reasons, as does Paul. I love the pleasure of the Sunday sections spread out all over; he likes the boxscores in an easy-to-read format so he can keep stats for his fantasy league team. In short, it would take a lot to get us to give up our daily subscriptions.
But we're at that point.
We simply can't get the paper delivered. It is often stolen, it is rarely replaced when we call, and even more frequently both papers circulation departments make it nearly impossible to speak to a live person. And once I do get through -- after many days and minutes spent trying to reach someone, anyone, I have had promises of doorstep delivery with my name on the paper. I have had promises of replacements, I have had reps begging me to give them another chance. But still no papers.
Ultimately, it doesn't matter why we want the paper -- for all anyone knows, we use it to line the birdcage. The point is, we're willing to pay for it, and we still can't get it.
If people like us -- die hard fans of print with 50 years of experience between us -- are ready to give up the daily because of the hassle, it's no wonder regular people can't be bothered.
But we're at that point.
We simply can't get the paper delivered. It is often stolen, it is rarely replaced when we call, and even more frequently both papers circulation departments make it nearly impossible to speak to a live person. And once I do get through -- after many days and minutes spent trying to reach someone, anyone, I have had promises of doorstep delivery with my name on the paper. I have had promises of replacements, I have had reps begging me to give them another chance. But still no papers.
Ultimately, it doesn't matter why we want the paper -- for all anyone knows, we use it to line the birdcage. The point is, we're willing to pay for it, and we still can't get it.
If people like us -- die hard fans of print with 50 years of experience between us -- are ready to give up the daily because of the hassle, it's no wonder regular people can't be bothered.
June 22, 2009
Want Ads, Part II
Here's a little tidbit: The poor soul who replaced me at my last job has already been shown the door. I hear he lasted a little over two weeks.
Thus, the search continues. Following is the latest Craigslist posting. If you'd like to see the previous ad, to see how this job has evolved, click here:
Experienced Personal/Administrative Assistant needed for 2-person office. Ideal candidate must be professional, have superior computer skills (ability to trouble-shoot, work with constant contact, databases and outlook, update websites, organize email blasts), superior writing and editing skills, positive attitude, self-starter, and experienced in assisting executive level positions (a must). Obsession with organization and attention to detail big plus. In addition, must have knowledge of an entire office operation from ordering supplies, handling phones, fixing the copier, maintaining electronic filing systems and resource libraries, to being the contact for building emergencies.
Candidates must have over 5 years experience as a personal/executive/administrative assistant. Must be able to work independently (owner travels extensively), take initiative on determining what needs to get done, high level of understanding how to prioritize, and sincere appreciation of supporting a small office team. Abundance of common sense required. Marketing experience a plus.
We are only looking for serious applicants who are willing to put in the extra effort in helping a small business grow. No two days are alike. Superior customer skills are a must. Individuals who are immature and need a lot of direction and recognition need not apply. This job is for the experienced only; individuals who understand a personal errand is as valuable as meeting a deadline and have the wisdom to prioritize.
If you think you meet the above qualifications/requirements, enjoy assisting fast-paced individuals with tendencies of "Devil Wears Prada", then this might be the new home for you.
Please have at minimum bachelors degree. For the right individual, we are willing to be flexible on schedule.
Only serious apply. Position available by the end of July.
Send cover letter, salary history and resume. PLEASE, only apply if you meet above requirements. Thank you.
*Health benefits appear to be gone, too.
Thus, the search continues. Following is the latest Craigslist posting. If you'd like to see the previous ad, to see how this job has evolved, click here:
Experienced Personal/Administrative Assistant needed for 2-person office. Ideal candidate must be professional, have superior computer skills (ability to trouble-shoot, work with constant contact, databases and outlook, update websites, organize email blasts), superior writing and editing skills, positive attitude, self-starter, and experienced in assisting executive level positions (a must). Obsession with organization and attention to detail big plus. In addition, must have knowledge of an entire office operation from ordering supplies, handling phones, fixing the copier, maintaining electronic filing systems and resource libraries, to being the contact for building emergencies.
Candidates must have over 5 years experience as a personal/executive/administrative assistant. Must be able to work independently (owner travels extensively), take initiative on determining what needs to get done, high level of understanding how to prioritize, and sincere appreciation of supporting a small office team. Abundance of common sense required. Marketing experience a plus.
We are only looking for serious applicants who are willing to put in the extra effort in helping a small business grow. No two days are alike. Superior customer skills are a must. Individuals who are immature and need a lot of direction and recognition need not apply. This job is for the experienced only; individuals who understand a personal errand is as valuable as meeting a deadline and have the wisdom to prioritize.
If you think you meet the above qualifications/requirements, enjoy assisting fast-paced individuals with tendencies of "Devil Wears Prada", then this might be the new home for you.
Please have at minimum bachelors degree. For the right individual, we are willing to be flexible on schedule.
Only serious apply. Position available by the end of July.
Send cover letter, salary history and resume. PLEASE, only apply if you meet above requirements. Thank you.
- Location: Long Beach
- Compensation: $35,000 + Bonus depending on company growth
*Health benefits appear to be gone, too.
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