That is Hello in Mandarin. :)
In less than 12 hours I will be taking off for my trip to China.
And only 18 hours after that I will land in Beijing. Mom got a big kick outta the fact that I am flying out of Newark to get to Beijing.
Good Grief. Luckily I have a wonderful hubby who has uploaded many, many, many movies to the ipod for a diversion. Plus, I have to start reading about China before I land there. I have done a massive amount of time putting together a binder of all the things we can do, I just haven't had much time to read it.
I am not too concerned about Beijing since Karen's father lives there, I am just going to arrive and say 'where to?'. But Shanghai and Hong Kong Karen and I are on our own. but the 12 hour train to Shanghai and the TWENTY hour train to Hong Kong will provide plenty of time to check the books.
If you want to track where we are when - I created a Google Map of all the major locations where we will be staying, visiting and traveling.
Click here to check it out.
I will TRY to post some pictures during the trip - but I am not guaranteeing anything. Technology repels me and Greg won't be with me on the trip to 'make it work'.
If not I will just post TONS of photos upon my return.
Thanks for all the encouragement for the trip.
Best Family Ever.
Love,
K
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
The Big Show in The Big Apple
A week flies by when you are busy. The new Red 139th unit opened at Madison Square Garden so we throw a big 'ol party for VP's, press and their families.
The performers come down to entertain and sign autographs for the kids.
There was a mini Clown College so the kids can try the low wire, stilts, juggling, etc.
I had no business up on the low wire. I can barely walk on the solid ground.
I am not the only big kid in the room - Ruthie got 'levitated' by Zingmaster Alex Ramon. This was a photo station where Alex's photo is sideways and you stand up in front. When you rotate the picture - Zing, Zang, Zoom - you are floating!
And then the pièce de résistance - The BALLOON Pit! We had one of the areas completely filled with balloons of all sizes. The kids literally dove into the pit and had a blast. Some children I would have liked to tag for sterilization or at the very least finger print now as they will end up in the system at some point in their life. But aside from the few bad seeds, the kids just had blast. They ended up popping a bunch of the balloons roughhousing but don't worry, there were plenty of balloons left for me to play in once the show started.
I had to steal a picture with Taba the Tiger Trainer as he is one of my favs - AZUCAR!! I am so impressed by him - especially this morning when Benny woke me up at 6am to fed him. In my house the cats have trained the adults.
I work with a wonderful balloon artist who did a life size balloon representation of Alex. Amazing.
And here is Alex in the flesh. Alex used to be our stage show Mickey's Magic Show and now he is riding elephants, performing amazing illusions and leading The Greatest Show On Earth - and all at 23! This picture is me, Alex and Jen Frost - aka Rockstar.
I know I can be more of a fan than employee at times - but Alex is wonderful in the show and so down to earth - I just adore him. He is no circus diva.
I try my best to remain professional as I was working - but I can only contain myself so much when I have access to a balloon pit and a balloon version of the Zingmaster. I do work at the circus for cryin' out loud. :)
One of my favorite things about working at Feld Entertainment is the people - in the show, behind the scenes and in the offices. One of the cherries on top is Christy. I got to spend a morning with Christy - Gregory was jealous. Here we are in the NY Office in the Empire State Building.
Here's a slideshow of the festivities.
I am happy to be home, I missed Greg and my kitties Lots - I have to soak in as much of it as I can before I am off to China with Ransom. I will try to post pictures while running around - Greg bought an extra memory card so be prepared to be overwhelmed (or bored) by tons of pictures.
The performers come down to entertain and sign autographs for the kids.
There was a mini Clown College so the kids can try the low wire, stilts, juggling, etc.
I had no business up on the low wire. I can barely walk on the solid ground.
I am not the only big kid in the room - Ruthie got 'levitated' by Zingmaster Alex Ramon. This was a photo station where Alex's photo is sideways and you stand up in front. When you rotate the picture - Zing, Zang, Zoom - you are floating!
And then the pièce de résistance - The BALLOON Pit! We had one of the areas completely filled with balloons of all sizes. The kids literally dove into the pit and had a blast. Some children I would have liked to tag for sterilization or at the very least finger print now as they will end up in the system at some point in their life. But aside from the few bad seeds, the kids just had blast. They ended up popping a bunch of the balloons roughhousing but don't worry, there were plenty of balloons left for me to play in once the show started.
I had to steal a picture with Taba the Tiger Trainer as he is one of my favs - AZUCAR!! I am so impressed by him - especially this morning when Benny woke me up at 6am to fed him. In my house the cats have trained the adults.
I work with a wonderful balloon artist who did a life size balloon representation of Alex. Amazing.
And here is Alex in the flesh. Alex used to be our stage show Mickey's Magic Show and now he is riding elephants, performing amazing illusions and leading The Greatest Show On Earth - and all at 23! This picture is me, Alex and Jen Frost - aka Rockstar.
I know I can be more of a fan than employee at times - but Alex is wonderful in the show and so down to earth - I just adore him. He is no circus diva.
I try my best to remain professional as I was working - but I can only contain myself so much when I have access to a balloon pit and a balloon version of the Zingmaster. I do work at the circus for cryin' out loud. :)
One of my favorite things about working at Feld Entertainment is the people - in the show, behind the scenes and in the offices. One of the cherries on top is Christy. I got to spend a morning with Christy - Gregory was jealous. Here we are in the NY Office in the Empire State Building.
Here's a slideshow of the festivities.
I am happy to be home, I missed Greg and my kitties Lots - I have to soak in as much of it as I can before I am off to China with Ransom. I will try to post pictures while running around - Greg bought an extra memory card so be prepared to be overwhelmed (or bored) by tons of pictures.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
John's Fortieth Extraveganza
Here is where Greg needs to post some pics of John's big 40th birthday party. A good time was had by all - but Greg has better access to the photos - so get on it babe!
I was able to steal a few from facebook - these are both before the 15+ shots of alcohol everyone forced on John. I was the only one willing to help out and drink some of his 2 foot Margareta/daiquiri - I know, I am a good, good friend. Always there to lend a helping hand.
John greatly enjoying the birthday festivities.
The BFF's
Shot of the old old crew. Still a good lookin group of guys.
Here I am helping John out by drinking some of the humongous drink.
One of my favorite shots- This one John is close to the puking point.
Good Times.
I was able to steal a few from facebook - these are both before the 15+ shots of alcohol everyone forced on John. I was the only one willing to help out and drink some of his 2 foot Margareta/daiquiri - I know, I am a good, good friend. Always there to lend a helping hand.
John greatly enjoying the birthday festivities.
The BFF's
Shot of the old old crew. Still a good lookin group of guys.
Here I am helping John out by drinking some of the humongous drink.
One of my favorite shots- This one John is close to the puking point.
Good Times.
Walk With The Animals
Last week was the Animal Walk in DC and Last night was the Animal Walk in NY - I was a very lucky girl and able to participate in both.
I may be working lots in NY this week, but that doesn't mean there isn't a perk or two. One of the best is walking down the streets of NYC next to some of the prettiest girls in town. Aside from the lovely ladies of the Northeast Team, I am referring to the beautiful Elephants of The Greatest Show On Earth.
The walk begins at the Lincoln Tunnel and ends up at Madison Square Garden. Of course we have to start late - can you image how the city would turn against us if we stopped traffic during the day? Instead the walk begins at midnight and even in the wee hours of the morning and in 27 degrees, the streets were still lined up with people excited to see the elephants and horses. Even a few kids were on their parents shoulders, but it's not every day elephants walk down your street.
The DC Walk was on St. Patty's day - I was supposed to drive one of the clown cars - mostly cause the car was Mini Coopers and I want one so bad - just look how cute I would be with my own convertible Mini.
But alas the traffic in VA always sucks and I was so late they gave my spot away, instead I got to walk with the horses, not my favorite - but the Cossack's are - Very nice.
The NYC Walk I was next to the elephants - my favorite of course. They are not only my favorites - the people were beyond excited - even the Police working the parade were reduced to fans taking photos.
It's kinda tough to take pics while paying attention - I tried to get a cute shot of the MSG sign between the elephants - not bad, but I am sure Greg could do better.
Megan was in town all the way from the West Coast and PatRice was also in town sporting a wee one in her belly! She is so cute Preggos.
I mentioned the Northeast Team - So nice, so cute and so full of estrogen.
The Team Shot:
The Girls of NE (including a few wannabes)
And then the guys:
But something tells me they don't mind. :)
It was a fun night, but I am exhausted and even stayed in tonight to get to sleep at a decent hour. Plus, I have a morning of fun planned with my girl Christy.
YEAH, Christy!!
The beginning of the trip started with a very fun evening with Karen Ransom and her newest additions to the family - niece Maddie and nephew Ben. Awesome kids and I am not just saying that cause they like to play games, were amazingly good when we went to see Wicked or enjoyed watching Twilight as much as I do. Not that those are not all pluses in my book. Karen and I intended to work on the China trip - but playing Blokus and designing cell phone skins took priority. Heck, I have 14 hours on a plane, I could plan the trip then and still have a few hours to kill.
So far a very good trip to NY - the only thing that would be better is if Greg came up with me - but someone has to cuddle with Chewie if I am not there.
Here's a slideshow of the rest of the animal pics - even one in there of Mike and me - he drove his new car over to the pad - with Bummum of course. Even one step lower than me - Mike is still taller.
I may be working lots in NY this week, but that doesn't mean there isn't a perk or two. One of the best is walking down the streets of NYC next to some of the prettiest girls in town. Aside from the lovely ladies of the Northeast Team, I am referring to the beautiful Elephants of The Greatest Show On Earth.
The walk begins at the Lincoln Tunnel and ends up at Madison Square Garden. Of course we have to start late - can you image how the city would turn against us if we stopped traffic during the day? Instead the walk begins at midnight and even in the wee hours of the morning and in 27 degrees, the streets were still lined up with people excited to see the elephants and horses. Even a few kids were on their parents shoulders, but it's not every day elephants walk down your street.
The DC Walk was on St. Patty's day - I was supposed to drive one of the clown cars - mostly cause the car was Mini Coopers and I want one so bad - just look how cute I would be with my own convertible Mini.
But alas the traffic in VA always sucks and I was so late they gave my spot away, instead I got to walk with the horses, not my favorite - but the Cossack's are - Very nice.
The NYC Walk I was next to the elephants - my favorite of course. They are not only my favorites - the people were beyond excited - even the Police working the parade were reduced to fans taking photos.
It's kinda tough to take pics while paying attention - I tried to get a cute shot of the MSG sign between the elephants - not bad, but I am sure Greg could do better.
Megan was in town all the way from the West Coast and PatRice was also in town sporting a wee one in her belly! She is so cute Preggos.
I mentioned the Northeast Team - So nice, so cute and so full of estrogen.
The Team Shot:
The Girls of NE (including a few wannabes)
And then the guys:
But something tells me they don't mind. :)
It was a fun night, but I am exhausted and even stayed in tonight to get to sleep at a decent hour. Plus, I have a morning of fun planned with my girl Christy.
YEAH, Christy!!
The beginning of the trip started with a very fun evening with Karen Ransom and her newest additions to the family - niece Maddie and nephew Ben. Awesome kids and I am not just saying that cause they like to play games, were amazingly good when we went to see Wicked or enjoyed watching Twilight as much as I do. Not that those are not all pluses in my book. Karen and I intended to work on the China trip - but playing Blokus and designing cell phone skins took priority. Heck, I have 14 hours on a plane, I could plan the trip then and still have a few hours to kill.
So far a very good trip to NY - the only thing that would be better is if Greg came up with me - but someone has to cuddle with Chewie if I am not there.
Here's a slideshow of the rest of the animal pics - even one in there of Mike and me - he drove his new car over to the pad - with Bummum of course. Even one step lower than me - Mike is still taller.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Another One Bites The Dust
Holly Crap - Pam is how old?!?!?!
Another day, another friend turns 40. This time it's Pamdamonium's turn. Pam Kraynak turned 40.
She had a little shindig at Hard Times in Springfield - a good time was had by all.
Even Amanda Hug and Kiss found time in her busy schedule.
Greg always the master photographer takes a pic of him and his BFF Johnny Boy Law.
Can you read Pam's necklace? She got it from the official Buck Cherry fan club website.
She really is a Crazy Bitch - but Greg doesn't seem to mind :}
Me and my man.
Old people are contagious, John is infected too and will be 40 in a few days. Will have to get lots of pictures of that party to post.
Another day, another friend turns 40. This time it's Pamdamonium's turn. Pam Kraynak turned 40.
She had a little shindig at Hard Times in Springfield - a good time was had by all.
Even Amanda Hug and Kiss found time in her busy schedule.
Greg always the master photographer takes a pic of him and his BFF Johnny Boy Law.
Can you read Pam's necklace? She got it from the official Buck Cherry fan club website.
She really is a Crazy Bitch - but Greg doesn't seem to mind :}
Me and my man.
Old people are contagious, John is infected too and will be 40 in a few days. Will have to get lots of pictures of that party to post.
Hard to believe Pam is so old, but she acts about as mature as me - so what's that? Mid twenties?
It's Snowing Outside My Window, Is It Snowing Outside Yours?
The news channels predicted 6-10 inches over night (twss) so naturally, we figured it would be nothing major. For once they got it right. And it's still snowing so we may end up with a foot or more. It's pretty, sure, but I hate being cold. Plus, we are the last man on the totem pole for plowing. Too bad Tim has to work in this crap.
Greg and I are stuck until they clear the road. So while I am working from home I can do a bit more research on my trip to China!
Yeah, that's right, China baby.
I am very, very excited that this opportunity popped up and I am able to take advantage. Karen, her sister Grace, and Grace's family are taking a trip to visit their father in Beijing. Karen's roommate was going to go with them, but he got a new job and is moving - so he had to back out. That left room for me, and since Summer Meetings were cancelled this year, I have the time to take off work.
Greg is happy for me, but he was bummed he couldn't take the time off of work with such short notice and come too. At least he was bummed; after doing some research on what to expect, I think he has come to terms with it.
The 13 hour 40 minute flight aside (which honestly could be enough of a deterrent for Greg), the idiosyncrasies of the Chinese is interesting to say the least. The spitting, pushing in line, and squatting toilets give a little pause. But it will be nice to be around people who can appreciate my belching talents.
I think all those things will be worth it for a view like this.
Imagine being on the Great Wall with these two Great Kids. I am looking forward to spending some quality time with Karen's nephew Dominic (DJ) and niece Sammy (Samantha Fox). These two are some CUTE kids. Plus, it will only be a few days with them before Karen and I are off on our own, so even better.
The idea of spending my birthday in Shanghai and checking out the view from Shanghai World Financial Center is kinda exciting too.
Greg said he is going to get me an extra memory card for the trip so be prepared to fake excitement as I bore you with LOTS of pics.
Greg and I are stuck until they clear the road. So while I am working from home I can do a bit more research on my trip to China!
Yeah, that's right, China baby.
I am very, very excited that this opportunity popped up and I am able to take advantage. Karen, her sister Grace, and Grace's family are taking a trip to visit their father in Beijing. Karen's roommate was going to go with them, but he got a new job and is moving - so he had to back out. That left room for me, and since Summer Meetings were cancelled this year, I have the time to take off work.
Greg is happy for me, but he was bummed he couldn't take the time off of work with such short notice and come too. At least he was bummed; after doing some research on what to expect, I think he has come to terms with it.
The 13 hour 40 minute flight aside (which honestly could be enough of a deterrent for Greg), the idiosyncrasies of the Chinese is interesting to say the least. The spitting, pushing in line, and squatting toilets give a little pause. But it will be nice to be around people who can appreciate my belching talents.
I think all those things will be worth it for a view like this.
Imagine being on the Great Wall with these two Great Kids. I am looking forward to spending some quality time with Karen's nephew Dominic (DJ) and niece Sammy (Samantha Fox). These two are some CUTE kids. Plus, it will only be a few days with them before Karen and I are off on our own, so even better.
The idea of spending my birthday in Shanghai and checking out the view from Shanghai World Financial Center is kinda exciting too.
Greg said he is going to get me an extra memory card for the trip so be prepared to fake excitement as I bore you with LOTS of pics.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Don't Blame Me, Blame Facebook
I know - I have been doing a poor job keeping up on the blog. I am spending too much time on facebook. Mostly because facebook is frustrating and I spend most my time trying to figure it out. It's a love hate relationship. I love catching up with friends, but I don't get a lot of it. I don't understand why people I don't even remember want to friend me. A part of me thinks they are hoping I got fat so they can point and laugh.
But I did force Tim to sign up, so now I have yet another venue to goof around with my bro.
So the point of the post is that I will do better, therefor here's a quick update on the weekend.
Spent Saturday with nephew Christopher. He went with Greg and I to see Freestyle Motorcross. One of the new shows Feld now produces with Feld Motor Sports. This one is where they do all sorts of jumps, flips and tricks on motorcycles. They also have bicycle tricks that were pretty sweet. It was a good time, it could have been condensed by about 30 minutes, but they sell beer and nachos - so I was happy at least.
Sunday Greg and I spend All day installing a chandelier in the bathroom. I got it in my head that a tacky silver and crystal chandelier would complete our bathroom. I looked everywhere for one that didn't cost hundreds of dollars. Then on my last trip to Ikea with Dad we came across one. He insisted on getting it for me - cause that's Dad. We figured 8 months sitting in a box in the hallway was enough, so we sucked it up and did one of our least favorite things to do - work with electricity. Only took one (looooonnng) trip to Home Depot, one slightly electrocuted Greg and a wee bit of Jerry riggin'.
But as usual, I was right, the chandelier looks AWESOME. Thanks Dad.
Dad also helped us figure out the diamond pattern when we painted it. It was amazing, Greg and I spent hours trying to map it out, Dad came in and within minutes had it all figured out. So to recap, if we ever sell the house, there has to be something in writing that the bathroom can never be repainted and we are taking the chandelier with us.
Here's a video from FMX - I am not too happy that it pauses on my goofy expression - but the clip shows some of the action. Don't worry about the smack my wife up reference by Greg - I am not married to Chris Brown - the song was Prodigy's Firestarter and he was taking liberty with the lyrics.
But I did force Tim to sign up, so now I have yet another venue to goof around with my bro.
So the point of the post is that I will do better, therefor here's a quick update on the weekend.
Spent Saturday with nephew Christopher. He went with Greg and I to see Freestyle Motorcross. One of the new shows Feld now produces with Feld Motor Sports. This one is where they do all sorts of jumps, flips and tricks on motorcycles. They also have bicycle tricks that were pretty sweet. It was a good time, it could have been condensed by about 30 minutes, but they sell beer and nachos - so I was happy at least.
Sunday Greg and I spend All day installing a chandelier in the bathroom. I got it in my head that a tacky silver and crystal chandelier would complete our bathroom. I looked everywhere for one that didn't cost hundreds of dollars. Then on my last trip to Ikea with Dad we came across one. He insisted on getting it for me - cause that's Dad. We figured 8 months sitting in a box in the hallway was enough, so we sucked it up and did one of our least favorite things to do - work with electricity. Only took one (looooonnng) trip to Home Depot, one slightly electrocuted Greg and a wee bit of Jerry riggin'.
But as usual, I was right, the chandelier looks AWESOME. Thanks Dad.
Dad also helped us figure out the diamond pattern when we painted it. It was amazing, Greg and I spent hours trying to map it out, Dad came in and within minutes had it all figured out. So to recap, if we ever sell the house, there has to be something in writing that the bathroom can never be repainted and we are taking the chandelier with us.
Here's a video from FMX - I am not too happy that it pauses on my goofy expression - but the clip shows some of the action. Don't worry about the smack my wife up reference by Greg - I am not married to Chris Brown - the song was Prodigy's Firestarter and he was taking liberty with the lyrics.
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