Saturday, January 26, 2013
Chichin Itza
Just some odds and ends
This was at YVR on our way out.
Thanks to our resident photographer, this is the resort at dusk.
This is also on the resort.
Tequila
This is the bottle that was awaiting Flo and Bill's arrival. Every night with our treats we would either get a bottle of champagne or wine. By the time it was time to go, we had quite the stash of unopened wine. We asked to trade it all in for a bottle of Tequila that had the hotel's name on it. They said they would give us two bottles! We were quite thankful. So we carefully packed them in our knapsacks. Get to the airport about to go through security, when we see the regulations of no liquids! So talk about feeling stupid! The nice security guard said we need not worry about the bottles breaking on our way home, since they would be travelling no farther than the point we were at right then! Boy did that hurt! We watfched as they carefully placed these two bottles in the garbage can there, along with dad's barely used bottle of Hummer! We know all those rules, yet for some reason didn't think they had them in Mexico! Don't know what we were thinking! So we crossed the hallway and proceeded to buy another bottle of Tequila!!!!! Darn it all, but I guess lesson learned! Oh well at least thanks to Flo's wonderful picture taking capabilities, we can share with you what it WOULD have looked like! So cheers Jonathan!
Friday, January 25, 2013
Sun rises
So disappointing not to see sunsets, but sunrises! I guess, they'll have to do! They were however very beautiful
The (&^%$#) Walmart!
Cannot believe we sunk SO low!!!
Dad right in his element!
Special night time treats
So this one isn't special treats, it's Dad's desserts. He quite enjoyed them!
So is this one! Thinking I might have to start making desserts!
This one IS one of our night time treats! This is in fact the one that he made me feel guilty about eating, since he had nothing for his "friends (kids)!
Chocolate covered strawberries! I LOVED the white chocolate one!
That candle from different kinds of sugars was absolutely AMAZING!
These were hedgehogs. Couldn't help but think how Keri would haved loved these!
Cozumel
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Headed home
We are now on one of the final legs home. We're sitting at YVR waiting for our flight to PG. As it sits now our plane is delayed for 10 minutes yet it's about three hours before our flight, so who knows what will happen between then and now. Nice to be in a place where at least you only hear mostly two different languages. English is not the majority, yet at least you hear it quite often.
Looking forward to seeing Maya, Eli and Isaac tonight. Of course looking forward to Jon Chels and Peanut too! It's pretty dark and dreary here today, but at least no white stff. It's nice to be eased into it gently.
Sitting at an airport you always think no one is at home. In Mexico it was unreal to think and see how many people were there! The numbers of dollars that come into that country because of tourism is overwhelming.
W e heard over and over again from the Mexicans how their minimum wage was about seven dollars a day. Don't know if they were saying this so they would get a tip or if it was really true. Who knows.
Yesterday was pretty uneventful other than travelling. We did get to see Tom, Annie, Mike and Wilma heading in on the plane that we were headed out on. That was pretty amazing!
Well until later people, some we'll see later day, some tomorrow, and some in February. Until then............
Farewell!
Looking forward to seeing Maya, Eli and Isaac tonight. Of course looking forward to Jon Chels and Peanut too! It's pretty dark and dreary here today, but at least no white stff. It's nice to be eased into it gently.
Sitting at an airport you always think no one is at home. In Mexico it was unreal to think and see how many people were there! The numbers of dollars that come into that country because of tourism is overwhelming.
W e heard over and over again from the Mexicans how their minimum wage was about seven dollars a day. Don't know if they were saying this so they would get a tip or if it was really true. Who knows.
Yesterday was pretty uneventful other than travelling. We did get to see Tom, Annie, Mike and Wilma heading in on the plane that we were headed out on. That was pretty amazing!
Well until later people, some we'll see later day, some tomorrow, and some in February. Until then............
Farewell!
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Xplore
WHAT A BLAST WE HAD TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We went to a place called Xplore. It was a HUGE underground cave. Yes
I said it. An Underground cave. There were many options you could choose from. We first went on a five km
Ampibhibious vehicle tour. Oh it was so fun. There were many places that you had to smile for the camera.
We did, and there were many pictures taken. You had to wear a helmet all the time. They kept track of your
pictures with the number on your helmet. Then you could stand in certain places, the camera would read your
helmet number and you could view your pictures. The technology was so far over my head, I couldn't even begin
to grasp it. The end result was that yes we paid the big bucks to purchase the USB drive. Thnakfully we have
you guys to help us out with that. I can't begin to do that. We had so much fun posing for the pictures.
We then did a Zip line circuit. They told us it would take 45 minutes for each of two circuits. I think it
probably took 2 1/2 hours by the time we were done. So much less stressful than the time we did it in the
Dominican. They had brakes at the end of these. You didn't have to control the speed yourself. But I tell you,
the speed that you come into the landing at was so so fast, I was VERY nervous! I didn't think that thing
was going to be able to stop. WOW, we then did a river raft paddle, with your dad leading the way of course, my
fearless leader. I really tried to help but of course, I did it all wrong, so I just sat back and told your
dad some jokes. He tried very hard not to laugh. After a while I thought maybe it was in his head to try
and make my death look like an accident. He really was trying very hard. For some reason he didn't appreciate
my sense of humour. That of course made me laugh all the more. You know how he can be when he's really trying
to be serious when there is absolutely no reason to be serious at all! Anyway, we then did another amphibious
vehicle tour. (sure wish there was some kind of shorter way of writing that!)
The only way this would have been a better dad is if y'all were with us. Sure miss you. Maybe someday again.
Tomorrow we go to swim with the turtles. I'm so looking forward to that too. I know this is way too long for
some of you, okay ONE of you, not to mention any names, but the initials spell CLOD! I'll end this off for now.
Maybe we'll SKYPE with someone later!
I said it. An Underground cave. There were many options you could choose from. We first went on a five km
Ampibhibious vehicle tour. Oh it was so fun. There were many places that you had to smile for the camera.
We did, and there were many pictures taken. You had to wear a helmet all the time. They kept track of your
pictures with the number on your helmet. Then you could stand in certain places, the camera would read your
helmet number and you could view your pictures. The technology was so far over my head, I couldn't even begin
to grasp it. The end result was that yes we paid the big bucks to purchase the USB drive. Thnakfully we have
you guys to help us out with that. I can't begin to do that. We had so much fun posing for the pictures.
We then did a Zip line circuit. They told us it would take 45 minutes for each of two circuits. I think it
probably took 2 1/2 hours by the time we were done. So much less stressful than the time we did it in the
Dominican. They had brakes at the end of these. You didn't have to control the speed yourself. But I tell you,
the speed that you come into the landing at was so so fast, I was VERY nervous! I didn't think that thing
was going to be able to stop. WOW, we then did a river raft paddle, with your dad leading the way of course, my
fearless leader. I really tried to help but of course, I did it all wrong, so I just sat back and told your
dad some jokes. He tried very hard not to laugh. After a while I thought maybe it was in his head to try
and make my death look like an accident. He really was trying very hard. For some reason he didn't appreciate
my sense of humour. That of course made me laugh all the more. You know how he can be when he's really trying
to be serious when there is absolutely no reason to be serious at all! Anyway, we then did another amphibious
vehicle tour. (sure wish there was some kind of shorter way of writing that!)
The only way this would have been a better dad is if y'all were with us. Sure miss you. Maybe someday again.
Tomorrow we go to swim with the turtles. I'm so looking forward to that too. I know this is way too long for
some of you, okay ONE of you, not to mention any names, but the initials spell CLOD! I'll end this off for now.
Maybe we'll SKYPE with someone later!
The internet has been failing uf for the last couple of days. Today however, we leave and it's all good!
We took an excursion yesterday which was a lesson of living local. Speed restrictions are only important
if you're not in a hurry. Stop lights are invalid if you're in the right lane and stop signs are merely
a suggestion! The police drive the highway with their lights on to give the warning that they're out there.
It isn't necessary to pull over. If you are trying to get into the hotel however, you'd better have the person's
name, their hotel room number, the taxi number, the agency number, the excursion name, driver's name and
personal id number. What a system!
We went to an animal reserve with jaguars, pumas large snakes monkeys and over 300 types of birds. We would also be
seeing many many turtles. In fact we would see three different types of turtles. Some would be as much as three
meters wide. Well after he explained all of that, the jaguars, pumas, big snakes and monkeys lived very deep
in the jungle, so we wouldn't see them at all. Although there were 300 different types of birds, we would
probably only see three. As for the turtles, yes we did see ONE! We did see many dolphins, even a baby.
We first were transported to the place where we would leave with the excursion. By the time we got there
over two hours had passed. We then had a drive through the reserve, where if you looked left you saw palm
trees, if you looked right, you saw palm trees. In the middle was a very rough road with single lane traffic
although if you saw a car coming the other way, you had about a split second to pull over. Hopefully the oncoming
would also pull over and it would be all good. Needless to saw it was a hair raising experience! I'll let you know
more later as for now I have a date with some mamosa, coffee, fresh fruit and yougurt! okay it was not that bad
we did see some wildlife and it was fun are tour guides were pretty good but what long day are hoilday is drawing to an
end but we had a wonderful time i will miss my little buddys but soon i get to see my peanut so all is good
we cant wait to see are kids and grandchildern to we miss them lots so i guess are next post will be from
canada to all the follows thankyou for sharing are hoilday to my wife thankyou for all the post its alot of
work and in six months i casn look back and laugh.
We took an excursion yesterday which was a lesson of living local. Speed restrictions are only important
if you're not in a hurry. Stop lights are invalid if you're in the right lane and stop signs are merely
a suggestion! The police drive the highway with their lights on to give the warning that they're out there.
It isn't necessary to pull over. If you are trying to get into the hotel however, you'd better have the person's
name, their hotel room number, the taxi number, the agency number, the excursion name, driver's name and
personal id number. What a system!
We went to an animal reserve with jaguars, pumas large snakes monkeys and over 300 types of birds. We would also be
seeing many many turtles. In fact we would see three different types of turtles. Some would be as much as three
meters wide. Well after he explained all of that, the jaguars, pumas, big snakes and monkeys lived very deep
in the jungle, so we wouldn't see them at all. Although there were 300 different types of birds, we would
probably only see three. As for the turtles, yes we did see ONE! We did see many dolphins, even a baby.
We first were transported to the place where we would leave with the excursion. By the time we got there
over two hours had passed. We then had a drive through the reserve, where if you looked left you saw palm
trees, if you looked right, you saw palm trees. In the middle was a very rough road with single lane traffic
although if you saw a car coming the other way, you had about a split second to pull over. Hopefully the oncoming
would also pull over and it would be all good. Needless to saw it was a hair raising experience! I'll let you know
more later as for now I have a date with some mamosa, coffee, fresh fruit and yougurt! okay it was not that bad
we did see some wildlife and it was fun are tour guides were pretty good but what long day are hoilday is drawing to an
end but we had a wonderful time i will miss my little buddys but soon i get to see my peanut so all is good
we cant wait to see are kids and grandchildern to we miss them lots so i guess are next post will be from
canada to all the follows thankyou for sharing are hoilday to my wife thankyou for all the post its alot of
work and in six months i casn look back and laugh.
Tuesday
The internet has been failing uf for the last couple of days. Today however, we leave and it's all good!
We took an excursion yesterday which was a lesson of living local. Speed restrictions are only important
if you're not in a hurry. Stop lights are invalid if you're in the right lane and stop signs are merely
a suggestion! The police drive the highway with their lights on to give the warning that they're out there.
It isn't necessary to pull over. If you are trying to get into the hotel however, you'd better have the person's
name, their hotel room number, the taxi number, the agency number, the excursion name, driver's name and
personal id number. What a system!
We went to an animal reserve with jaguars, pumas large snakes monkeys and over 300 types of birds. We would also be
seeing many many turtles. In fact we would see three different types of turtles. Some would be as much as three
meters wide. Well after he explained all of that, the jaguars, pumas, big snakes and monkeys lived very deep
in the jungle, so we wouldn't see them at all. Although there were 300 different types of birds, we would
probably only see three. As for the turtles, yes we did see ONE! We did see many dolphins, even a baby.
We first were transported to the place where we would leave with the excursion. By the time we got there
over two hours had passed. We then had a drive through the reserve, where if you looked left you saw palm
trees, if you looked right, you saw palm trees. In the middle was a very rough road with single lane traffic
although if you saw a car coming the other way, you had about a split second to pull over. Hopefully the oncoming
would also pull over and it would be all good. Needless to saw it was a hair raising experience! I'll let you know
more later as for now I have a date with some mamosa, coffee, fresh fruit and yougurt! okay it was not that bad
we did see some wildlife and it was fun are tour guides were pretty good but what long day are hoilday is drawing to an
end but we had a wonderful time i will miss my little buddys but soon i get to see my peanut so all is good
we cant wait to see are kids and grandchildern to we miss them lots so i guess are next post will be from
canada to all the follows thankyou for sharing are hoilday to my wife thankyou for all the post its alot of
work and in six months i casn look back and laugh.
We took an excursion yesterday which was a lesson of living local. Speed restrictions are only important
if you're not in a hurry. Stop lights are invalid if you're in the right lane and stop signs are merely
a suggestion! The police drive the highway with their lights on to give the warning that they're out there.
It isn't necessary to pull over. If you are trying to get into the hotel however, you'd better have the person's
name, their hotel room number, the taxi number, the agency number, the excursion name, driver's name and
personal id number. What a system!
We went to an animal reserve with jaguars, pumas large snakes monkeys and over 300 types of birds. We would also be
seeing many many turtles. In fact we would see three different types of turtles. Some would be as much as three
meters wide. Well after he explained all of that, the jaguars, pumas, big snakes and monkeys lived very deep
in the jungle, so we wouldn't see them at all. Although there were 300 different types of birds, we would
probably only see three. As for the turtles, yes we did see ONE! We did see many dolphins, even a baby.
We first were transported to the place where we would leave with the excursion. By the time we got there
over two hours had passed. We then had a drive through the reserve, where if you looked left you saw palm
trees, if you looked right, you saw palm trees. In the middle was a very rough road with single lane traffic
although if you saw a car coming the other way, you had about a split second to pull over. Hopefully the oncoming
would also pull over and it would be all good. Needless to saw it was a hair raising experience! I'll let you know
more later as for now I have a date with some mamosa, coffee, fresh fruit and yougurt! okay it was not that bad
we did see some wildlife and it was fun are tour guides were pretty good but what long day are hoilday is drawing to an
end but we had a wonderful time i will miss my little buddys but soon i get to see my peanut so all is good
we cant wait to see are kids and grandchildern to we miss them lots so i guess are next post will be from
canada to all the follows thankyou for sharing are hoilday to my wife thankyou for all the post its alot of
work and in six months i casn look back and laugh.
Monday, January 21, 2013
Monday
We don't have you guys along, so dad has adopted these coatis as his children. So funny! He talks to them and tells them not to fight over the food, sorry guys I don't have much today, but I'll be sure to bring back some fruit for you later. What would you like apples, or maybe a banana or two?
We get treats every night. Last night I was asleep by the time they came. He actually made me feel
guilty about eating one, because then the poor kids had nothing to eat! It was like I was taking food
away from his children! I guess he always needs someone to take care of, so I guess they're it!
We're just about to go on another adventure, so we'll update you when we get back! For a different ending Love you and miss you,your dad's replaced you, but I think of you all everyday. Take care!
We get treats every night. Last night I was asleep by the time they came. He actually made me feel
guilty about eating one, because then the poor kids had nothing to eat! It was like I was taking food
away from his children! I guess he always needs someone to take care of, so I guess they're it!
We're just about to go on another adventure, so we'll update you when we get back! For a different ending Love you and miss you,your dad's replaced you, but I think of you all everyday. Take care!
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Sunday
Kept things pretty low key today. We started the morning doing a water circuit at the spa. That was so cool.
The different water jets and temperatures were just awesome. Started off in a steam room, then a walk on stones
whichnot unlike trying to cross Gloria's creek. Then some powerful jets that you actually had to hang on to bars
so as not to be thrown across the pool. There were 15 different stages with the last being an ice bath. We left
the cold so there was no coaxing us into that one. By the end we were so relaxed. It really was a very cool
thing to do.
We then had a very competitive game of Mega Jenga. It was as tall as me by the time we were close to done.
Along came a bunch of Russians, and one woman thought she would try to pull one out. There was no language barrier
when your dad told her in no uncertain terms to leave it alone!
It is the start of dusk right now and someone just sent up a couple of those Chinese or Japanese or whatever lanterns.
I've only seen them once before and can't even remember when but it was very cool to see. I actually called
dad out of the shower to come and take a look. He just about broke his neck but he did manage to see them
and remained unharmed.
Tomorrow we're doing another adventure. Should be cool. Its called Xplore and I just might find myself in another one
of those underground caves. We did another one of those earlier, but they are pretty cool.
Can't think of a whole lot else to say, so unless I think of something its ta ta for now.
The different water jets and temperatures were just awesome. Started off in a steam room, then a walk on stones
whichnot unlike trying to cross Gloria's creek. Then some powerful jets that you actually had to hang on to bars
so as not to be thrown across the pool. There were 15 different stages with the last being an ice bath. We left
the cold so there was no coaxing us into that one. By the end we were so relaxed. It really was a very cool
thing to do.
We then had a very competitive game of Mega Jenga. It was as tall as me by the time we were close to done.
Along came a bunch of Russians, and one woman thought she would try to pull one out. There was no language barrier
when your dad told her in no uncertain terms to leave it alone!
It is the start of dusk right now and someone just sent up a couple of those Chinese or Japanese or whatever lanterns.
I've only seen them once before and can't even remember when but it was very cool to see. I actually called
dad out of the shower to come and take a look. He just about broke his neck but he did manage to see them
and remained unharmed.
Tomorrow we're doing another adventure. Should be cool. Its called Xplore and I just might find myself in another one
of those underground caves. We did another one of those earlier, but they are pretty cool.
Can't think of a whole lot else to say, so unless I think of something its ta ta for now.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Saturday
The weather has turned but so has our maid. I was very jealous of Flo's towel art and we seldom got some. We
arrived back to the room today with a bed covered in rose petals. So beautiful!
We had a fun morning. Did a quad expedition along with speed boats.
Of course your dad called my bluff when I said I wanted to drive. You all know what happened the last time
I drove a speed boat. If you don't well I do. Believe it or not, we signed a waiver saying we would be responsible
for $60,000.00 or maybe it was pesos. It had your dad's signature on it. We have a loan, so regardless it would
have been paid for but boy was I ever nervous. Especially with Mr. Tailgater driving. We saw what they told us
was a crocodile. I didn't really see it move so for all we knew it could have been stuffed. The guy stopped right
at the spot and it took a bit to see it, but who knows it could have been real.
As I said earlier, the weather seems to have turned. Since Flo and Bill left we have not seen much sun.
We left the pool early today because dad had had enough of reading and it really wasn't very comfortable.
Hope bright sun shiny skies await us in future days.
Dad had the best best ice cream he has ever had in his life. It was hilarious. Remember Big Brother when the one
girl was saying about how she hated it when someone would say, "you should try this, you'll like it." I was telling
him, actually I'm really enjoying my sherbet. No come on, you'll love it. Actually no, I won't. I'm loving my
sherbet. Anyway on and on it went. He was really just trying to get my goat. I DID enjoy my sherbet, and he REALLY
enjoyed his icecream!
So the day is about over. Seems the hockey season is about to start. Dad is on pins and needles.
I had a dream the other night, and although I won't bore you with it on this blog, I must remember to tell you
about it, so don't forget to ask me. All hockey related.
Unless I think of something else, I'll bid you adieu for today. Love you all.
Maya and Eli: I always wear the "gramma" necklace you gave me and many people ask about you guys/ I very proudly
tell them all about you. It is such a special necklace. Not very shiny anymore, but I wear it anyway because I am so
proud of you both and Isaac. Be good for your mom and dad and we'll probably talk to you later tonight.
Opa and Gramma
arrived back to the room today with a bed covered in rose petals. So beautiful!
We had a fun morning. Did a quad expedition along with speed boats.
Of course your dad called my bluff when I said I wanted to drive. You all know what happened the last time
I drove a speed boat. If you don't well I do. Believe it or not, we signed a waiver saying we would be responsible
for $60,000.00 or maybe it was pesos. It had your dad's signature on it. We have a loan, so regardless it would
have been paid for but boy was I ever nervous. Especially with Mr. Tailgater driving. We saw what they told us
was a crocodile. I didn't really see it move so for all we knew it could have been stuffed. The guy stopped right
at the spot and it took a bit to see it, but who knows it could have been real.
As I said earlier, the weather seems to have turned. Since Flo and Bill left we have not seen much sun.
We left the pool early today because dad had had enough of reading and it really wasn't very comfortable.
Hope bright sun shiny skies await us in future days.
Dad had the best best ice cream he has ever had in his life. It was hilarious. Remember Big Brother when the one
girl was saying about how she hated it when someone would say, "you should try this, you'll like it." I was telling
him, actually I'm really enjoying my sherbet. No come on, you'll love it. Actually no, I won't. I'm loving my
sherbet. Anyway on and on it went. He was really just trying to get my goat. I DID enjoy my sherbet, and he REALLY
enjoyed his icecream!
So the day is about over. Seems the hockey season is about to start. Dad is on pins and needles.
I had a dream the other night, and although I won't bore you with it on this blog, I must remember to tell you
about it, so don't forget to ask me. All hockey related.
Unless I think of something else, I'll bid you adieu for today. Love you all.
Maya and Eli: I always wear the "gramma" necklace you gave me and many people ask about you guys/ I very proudly
tell them all about you. It is such a special necklace. Not very shiny anymore, but I wear it anyway because I am so
proud of you both and Isaac. Be good for your mom and dad and we'll probably talk to you later tonight.
Opa and Gramma
Friday, January 18, 2013
Back from the Walmart
Believe it or not, we went to the Walmart!!!! Saw much cheaper We also bought a few other things and Chelsey may or may not be happy with us. The grandkids will probably love us and that's what grammas and opas are for.
Not a very warm today at all. The morning was beautiful, but the afternoon turned a little ugly.
Met up with some serious hockey fans. Dad is really looking forward to tomorrow night. That's about all the news for now. Talk to you again soon!
Not a very warm today at all. The morning was beautiful, but the afternoon turned a little ugly.
Met up with some serious hockey fans. Dad is really looking forward to tomorrow night. That's about all the news for now. Talk to you again soon!
The last Friday
Woke up once again to the sun streaming in the window! So nice to see! Today is supposed to be rainy,
but I guess you get. You just cannot buy weather. We'll take whatever it is, could not possibly
go to below 0, so I'm sure it will be fine. Not real sure what the plans are today. Guess we'll play it
by ear and see what happens. There sure are few things one could complain about being here, but if you
looked you could probably find some. My opinion is you're in a third world country, living much better
for a week than they could ever dream of. Some of the menial labour is overwhelming. Some jobs just
don't come any lower
I have however noticed how some jobs are strictly for men, while others are strictly for women. There
are no female bartenders, no male host, very very few female servers. I happened upon a solicitation for
a job. I took a picture of it (can't prove it, but it IS on Flo's camera) It was one for a bartender, who
must be male, and I think the other was for a hostess, who must be female. Guess there's a lot to be said
for not discriminating against sexes. You'd never get away with that in our country.
The tourists that come here is not believable. I sure would love to see some stats of how many come each year.
Yesterday when we went to Cozumel, we counted six cruise ships. If you figure about 4000 people on each (not sure
maybe more) that 24000 people in that town alone! Every place we go we see thousands of tourists. It really must
impact their employment.
To go to Cozumel there was a $3.00 per head tax. Do that math on that alone! Everywhere seems to have some kind of
tax into the price. The government has found a very easy way to collect revenue!
Anyway, once again enough ranting for now. Talk to you later.
but I guess you get. You just cannot buy weather. We'll take whatever it is, could not possibly
go to below 0, so I'm sure it will be fine. Not real sure what the plans are today. Guess we'll play it
by ear and see what happens. There sure are few things one could complain about being here, but if you
looked you could probably find some. My opinion is you're in a third world country, living much better
for a week than they could ever dream of. Some of the menial labour is overwhelming. Some jobs just
don't come any lower
I have however noticed how some jobs are strictly for men, while others are strictly for women. There
are no female bartenders, no male host, very very few female servers. I happened upon a solicitation for
a job. I took a picture of it (can't prove it, but it IS on Flo's camera) It was one for a bartender, who
must be male, and I think the other was for a hostess, who must be female. Guess there's a lot to be said
for not discriminating against sexes. You'd never get away with that in our country.
The tourists that come here is not believable. I sure would love to see some stats of how many come each year.
Yesterday when we went to Cozumel, we counted six cruise ships. If you figure about 4000 people on each (not sure
maybe more) that 24000 people in that town alone! Every place we go we see thousands of tourists. It really must
impact their employment.
To go to Cozumel there was a $3.00 per head tax. Do that math on that alone! Everywhere seems to have some kind of
tax into the price. The government has found a very easy way to collect revenue!
Anyway, once again enough ranting for now. Talk to you later.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Thursday Part three
A couple things I forgot to tell you about. I got my haircut while dad went golfing. It is only
marginally better than the one I got before we went for Rob and Tina's wedding tha Cortney had to
rescue me from. Because I wear a hat most of the day, I'm not too worried about it. My thinking here
is, the only thing that stands between a good hair cut and a bad one is a dip in the pool. I'm just
letting it go.
So another thing, we left an apple on the table of our balcony last night. Today, the apple was about
eaten. There were Peanut prints on the INSIDE of the glass! The only that could mean was that dad's
friends came to help themselves! Amazing how they made it up this far! We're thinking maybe they took
the stairs. We are on the third floor, and if they coudl scale that far straight up, well, it would be
a mackerel!
Well I'm sure that this is way to much reading for one day, hope you make it through this all, not to
mention any names (Curt).
Funny thing though, we woke up to no wind, but the wind tonight on our way back from Cozumel was ongelovelik!
Anyway until next time, I haven't used this ending for quite a few posts, so love to you all (and I mean
it!)
dad and mom
marginally better than the one I got before we went for Rob and Tina's wedding tha Cortney had to
rescue me from. Because I wear a hat most of the day, I'm not too worried about it. My thinking here
is, the only thing that stands between a good hair cut and a bad one is a dip in the pool. I'm just
letting it go.
So another thing, we left an apple on the table of our balcony last night. Today, the apple was about
eaten. There were Peanut prints on the INSIDE of the glass! The only that could mean was that dad's
friends came to help themselves! Amazing how they made it up this far! We're thinking maybe they took
the stairs. We are on the third floor, and if they coudl scale that far straight up, well, it would be
a mackerel!
Well I'm sure that this is way to much reading for one day, hope you make it through this all, not to
mention any names (Curt).
Funny thing though, we woke up to no wind, but the wind tonight on our way back from Cozumel was ongelovelik!
Anyway until next time, I haven't used this ending for quite a few posts, so love to you all (and I mean
it!)
dad and mom
Thursday Part Two
We had such a cool day today. Went over to Cozumel. Took about a thirty minute ferry ride over.
We then went snorkling. The waves were so big though. It really reminded of that movie where
the people are left behind and waving their arms. Oh my. I was quite nervous. Of course because
there are no Canada Safety Standards, life jackets were optional. I kept waiting for them to say
where the life jackets were. Once I had one, I was keeping it on until we were off the boat! Of course
your dad being the deep sea diver that he is was not worried one bit. We were scheduled to do three
snorkel stations, but because of the wind,the other two were cancelled. That was just fine with me.
I had had enough after one. The fish we saw were absolutely amazing! No other word to describe it.
It was a real adventure.
When we were done the snorkel there was free time. Of course they want you to have time to part with
your money.
The wind started picking up, I mean really picking up. I asked one guy if this was possibly a hurricane and he
just laughed. The wind was blowing REALLY hard! The ferry ride back they were actually handing out
motion sickness bags. It reminded me of the time when you guys were little and we were at Uncle Pete and
Aunt Lena's and you were watching Old Yeller. Uncle Ted started handing out the Kleenex, because he
knew everyone was going to start howling. Even if you don't remember that I'm sure I've told you
the story. It was one of the funniest things I remember him doing.
Dad did feel well today. I had the option of changing out of my wet clothes, but he chose not to
take any dry clothes along. He got so cold he actually bought a jacket. So sitting in his cold broeks all
day finally caught up with him. Walking back to our room he started to hurt again.
His favorite time of day is here now and he's taking a quick nap before supper.
Unless I think of something else later, I'll sign off for now.
Florence: If you are reading this. We got towel art today! WITH ROSES!!!! It is a bunny and because we
have the use of a camera, I took pictures! By the way, the camera is still in good hands, and because we're not
using our case for our camera, it is keeping yours very safe and sound!
Until next time guys, De groete an eidereen!
We then went snorkling. The waves were so big though. It really reminded of that movie where
the people are left behind and waving their arms. Oh my. I was quite nervous. Of course because
there are no Canada Safety Standards, life jackets were optional. I kept waiting for them to say
where the life jackets were. Once I had one, I was keeping it on until we were off the boat! Of course
your dad being the deep sea diver that he is was not worried one bit. We were scheduled to do three
snorkel stations, but because of the wind,the other two were cancelled. That was just fine with me.
I had had enough after one. The fish we saw were absolutely amazing! No other word to describe it.
It was a real adventure.
When we were done the snorkel there was free time. Of course they want you to have time to part with
your money.
The wind started picking up, I mean really picking up. I asked one guy if this was possibly a hurricane and he
just laughed. The wind was blowing REALLY hard! The ferry ride back they were actually handing out
motion sickness bags. It reminded me of the time when you guys were little and we were at Uncle Pete and
Aunt Lena's and you were watching Old Yeller. Uncle Ted started handing out the Kleenex, because he
knew everyone was going to start howling. Even if you don't remember that I'm sure I've told you
the story. It was one of the funniest things I remember him doing.
Dad did feel well today. I had the option of changing out of my wet clothes, but he chose not to
take any dry clothes along. He got so cold he actually bought a jacket. So sitting in his cold broeks all
day finally caught up with him. Walking back to our room he started to hurt again.
His favorite time of day is here now and he's taking a quick nap before supper.
Unless I think of something else later, I'll sign off for now.
Florence: If you are reading this. We got towel art today! WITH ROSES!!!! It is a bunny and because we
have the use of a camera, I took pictures! By the way, the camera is still in good hands, and because we're not
using our case for our camera, it is keeping yours very safe and sound!
Until next time guys, De groete an eidereen!
Thursday Part One
So I'm trying something new here. I'm typing this on note-pad and see what happens.
Dad is just a train wreck on this trip! He is now suffering with a pulled groin. Last night
every step he took was quite painful. We'll see how he feels after a good rest.
He is just having one problem after another, and every time different.
Although we don't get sunsets, the sunrises are quite spectacular although they are over in a flash.
Dad is trying to wake up, ut letting his body wake up one muscle at a time. and that's okay.
Every night here we get a treat delivered. Always with a bottle of something.
Too bad that we can't bring it all home. So after typing about that, thought I'd open a bottle, let's just
say that it's a good thing we're on the top floor, because somone would have called security because a gun went off.
Dad just stepped out and looked over the balcony and his friends came RUNNING! Hilarious. They know he'll
give them treats. Don't know if I corrected myself already, but I guess I called them Okapis. They are
Coatis. BIG DIFFERENCE!! I guess dad and Curt saw one someplace. They are like a RAcoon. So I think this is
getting rather long so I'll sign off for now.
Dad is just a train wreck on this trip! He is now suffering with a pulled groin. Last night
every step he took was quite painful. We'll see how he feels after a good rest.
He is just having one problem after another, and every time different.
Although we don't get sunsets, the sunrises are quite spectacular although they are over in a flash.
Dad is trying to wake up, ut letting his body wake up one muscle at a time. and that's okay.
Every night here we get a treat delivered. Always with a bottle of something.
Too bad that we can't bring it all home. So after typing about that, thought I'd open a bottle, let's just
say that it's a good thing we're on the top floor, because somone would have called security because a gun went off.
Dad just stepped out and looked over the balcony and his friends came RUNNING! Hilarious. They know he'll
give them treats. Don't know if I corrected myself already, but I guess I called them Okapis. They are
Coatis. BIG DIFFERENCE!! I guess dad and Curt saw one someplace. They are like a RAcoon. So I think this is
getting rather long so I'll sign off for now.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Half our party gone
Flo and Bill have left for home. We should be able to see their plane fly by at any time.
I forgot to tell you about Dad in Vancouver at the casino. He did very well. Up $400.00. Was nice to see him win so much. We spent the afternoon lazing around the pool. Tomorrow we are going to Cozumel, rent scooters (I mean scooter) and explore the island. I'm really looking forward to it.
We got a lot of sun today. Dad has quite the redness. He just came to sit beside me and the heat from his body is something else. A foot away and I can feel it. So we fed dad's friends again. Got some pictures. ha ha ha.
We borrowed Flo's camera, so I'll try again to post. I just don't know what I'm doing wrong, but we'll see what happened. Until later. mom
I forgot to tell you about Dad in Vancouver at the casino. He did very well. Up $400.00. Was nice to see him win so much. We spent the afternoon lazing around the pool. Tomorrow we are going to Cozumel, rent scooters (I mean scooter) and explore the island. I'm really looking forward to it.
We got a lot of sun today. Dad has quite the redness. He just came to sit beside me and the heat from his body is something else. A foot away and I can feel it. So we fed dad's friends again. Got some pictures. ha ha ha.
We borrowed Flo's camera, so I'll try again to post. I just don't know what I'm doing wrong, but we'll see what happened. Until later. mom
Wenesday talking about Tuesday
Dad had a very exciting day yesterday. Went golfing with a pro from Indiana. He had a wonderful wonderful time. Pro gave him lots of tips. The sun gave him a few tips too, wear sunscreen and drink lots of water. He made it back to the hotel in time for dinner, but was near exhaustion. The backs of his legs look somewhat like a tomato. That is the bottom of his legs, the top covered by shorts look just fine. He wore the shirt Mark and Keri gave him for Christmas, and it was a little warm (and wet by the time he got back!) It was a very young pro, and he had a wonderful time. His name was something like Dustin Paquette.
I stayed at the resort and got some relaxing time in. The animation crew is something to be desired. They have a sing saying all of the events that will be happening, but they don't seem to happen unless you ask. Bill and I did partake in a fun game of throwing a water balloon with a towel. We thought we were the winners,but came to find out the first out is the loser! We were the first out! It was fun regardless. Later on in the afternoon, there came time for Mexican lottery. We found out where it would be and Flo, Bill and I were the only participants. We all won something so that was great.
Today Flo and Bill are leaving. A week goes by so fast when you're having fun. So glad that we have another week to explore, relax and have fun. The beach here is not anything but the pools sure are.
Florence doesn't tell me about the wonderful towel art she gets anymore because we are not getting anything! And not that we're not leaving good tips either. Seems they come in, collect the tips, make the bed and are on their way! Oh well, maybe it will change soon.
I guess this is long enough for now, will keep you posted. Just might go shopping for a new camer today! Seems the rice trick is just not working. Oh well, don't cry over spilt milk or wet cameras! Love to you all
I stayed at the resort and got some relaxing time in. The animation crew is something to be desired. They have a sing saying all of the events that will be happening, but they don't seem to happen unless you ask. Bill and I did partake in a fun game of throwing a water balloon with a towel. We thought we were the winners,but came to find out the first out is the loser! We were the first out! It was fun regardless. Later on in the afternoon, there came time for Mexican lottery. We found out where it would be and Flo, Bill and I were the only participants. We all won something so that was great.
Today Flo and Bill are leaving. A week goes by so fast when you're having fun. So glad that we have another week to explore, relax and have fun. The beach here is not anything but the pools sure are.
Florence doesn't tell me about the wonderful towel art she gets anymore because we are not getting anything! And not that we're not leaving good tips either. Seems they come in, collect the tips, make the bed and are on their way! Oh well, maybe it will change soon.
I guess this is long enough for now, will keep you posted. Just might go shopping for a new camer today! Seems the rice trick is just not working. Oh well, don't cry over spilt milk or wet cameras! Love to you all
Monday, January 14, 2013
Monday Evening
Had an adventure this afternoon. Just got out of the shower, decided to cool off outside on the deck. Only problem being, the door locks if you're not careful. We were not careful. Between the two of us we had one shirt and two broeks. Needless to say, somebody had to go for help. He could not do it in just his broeks, so I sacrificed his shirt. (martyr that I am) Funny to see your dad climbing the walls and crawling around to an opening, looking for a maid. She laughed and covered her eyes at the sight of him. Never mind what was trying to hide on the balcony. Thank goodness there is a small corner, where no one can see you! I hope that will only happen once. You never know though, it could happen again in a flash. Get your laughs about that now. We were not laughing at the time, but it only took about 30 seconds for it to be funny. Somethings you hadve to wait a long long time for them to be funny.
Well we're about to go have supper, so unless the spirit moves us, we bid you good night and talk to you tomorrow!
Well we're about to go have supper, so unless the spirit moves us, we bid you good night and talk to you tomorrow!
Monday January something 2013
So here we are and really enjoying our time here. Not doing a whole lot of excursions but we did go to some. Dad planned a bunch today, Cozumel, something else and golfing. Something to be said about golfing in a different country.
So to make a long story short, we are having camera difficulties. We have a camera that is good for underwater, but we have found out that it should be CLOSED before trying to take picture underwater!!!!!!!! Nevertheless, we have a bag of rice and although it's been three days, it has yet to turn on! What can I say, an experiment gone bad!!! On the bright side, I finally remembered that our tablet CAN take pictures, so today that may be on the list. So far I've been relying on Flo's camera, and I guess that will work once we're home. The computer is easy to type on, so maybe by the end of our vacation, we'll have it all worked out. As for Emily, thank you for taking our business under your wings. I hear you've been trying to comment but to no avail. Thank you for that. This blog is a real learning experience. It has been about as frustrating as can be.
Been thinking about Maya, over and over and over. Everywhere we go we see her name. I bought a hat yesterday that said Riviera Maya, and knew that was the one for me. I'll try post later again, hear the games calling my name. Love to Jon Chels, Maya Eli and Isaac, Mark and Keri, Curt and Emily, adding mom and dad makes 11, so I've included everyone in our nuclear family! Love you guys!!!!
So to make a long story short, we are having camera difficulties. We have a camera that is good for underwater, but we have found out that it should be CLOSED before trying to take picture underwater!!!!!!!! Nevertheless, we have a bag of rice and although it's been three days, it has yet to turn on! What can I say, an experiment gone bad!!! On the bright side, I finally remembered that our tablet CAN take pictures, so today that may be on the list. So far I've been relying on Flo's camera, and I guess that will work once we're home. The computer is easy to type on, so maybe by the end of our vacation, we'll have it all worked out. As for Emily, thank you for taking our business under your wings. I hear you've been trying to comment but to no avail. Thank you for that. This blog is a real learning experience. It has been about as frustrating as can be.
Been thinking about Maya, over and over and over. Everywhere we go we see her name. I bought a hat yesterday that said Riviera Maya, and knew that was the one for me. I'll try post later again, hear the games calling my name. Love to Jon Chels, Maya Eli and Isaac, Mark and Keri, Curt and Emily, adding mom and dad makes 11, so I've included everyone in our nuclear family! Love you guys!!!!
Sunday, January 13, 2013
The Sabbath day and trying to keep it holy
Today is the Sabbath, and it hard to remember it when you are in the sunny south! We did have some holy time this morning and <I{m sure the good Lord will forgive us for leading our own worship time. We are not Catholic, and we don{t really understand Spanish, so no sense going to Chur4ch. We did our own, and we hope the <lord accepts.-
Please forgive the bad punctuation because I broke down and bought some internet from the business center. >Incredible the prices they can charge, but oh well you do wehat you gotta do!
This morning we are going into Playa del Carmen, and doing some shopping. Florence met up with a Cheapa Phillipa, so we{ll see what he has to give us today.
Listened to some of Curt{s hockey game last night. The technology of that just blows me away, sitting in the hot humidity of Mexico listening to: [and Dekens says {not in MY back yard you don{t What a mind boggling thing. Can{t wait to hear between the benches from the hockey game of last night.
We are so grateful for health and strength from our Good Lord, and that we have the opportunity to explore the world! We{ll talk to you again soon.
Please forgive the bad punctuation because I broke down and bought some internet from the business center. >Incredible the prices they can charge, but oh well you do wehat you gotta do!
This morning we are going into Playa del Carmen, and doing some shopping. Florence met up with a Cheapa Phillipa, so we{ll see what he has to give us today.
Listened to some of Curt{s hockey game last night. The technology of that just blows me away, sitting in the hot humidity of Mexico listening to: [and Dekens says {not in MY back yard you don{t What a mind boggling thing. Can{t wait to hear between the benches from the hockey game of last night.
We are so grateful for health and strength from our Good Lord, and that we have the opportunity to explore the world! We{ll talk to you again soon.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Another post still no pictures
So try try as I might, I just cannot post any pictures.
Dad is ill again tonight, missed supper and just joined us for the festivities of some local artisans. Pretty cool to see. Today was just a lay low kind of a day. We hung out at the pool and played around there. The weather has really been cooperating. Bill even joined us in the pool for a while.
Florence is a pretty good haggler. She gets some pretty good deals. A take it or leave kind of girl. Went out for a good supper tonight. Funny how all of the waiters look the same. Once his name is Victor, the Andreo, then Marcus. It is just uncanny! Amazing how the Mayan's have their own kind of look. Anyway, until tomorrow, love you all!
Dad is ill again tonight, missed supper and just joined us for the festivities of some local artisans. Pretty cool to see. Today was just a lay low kind of a day. We hung out at the pool and played around there. The weather has really been cooperating. Bill even joined us in the pool for a while.
Florence is a pretty good haggler. She gets some pretty good deals. A take it or leave kind of girl. Went out for a good supper tonight. Funny how all of the waiters look the same. Once his name is Victor, the Andreo, then Marcus. It is just uncanny! Amazing how the Mayan's have their own kind of look. Anyway, until tomorrow, love you all!
Part II
Just tio keep your attention, I'll try to keep these short and you can read what you want. Dad fell asleep in the sun after his fishing trip, and woke up not all that bad. \He expected to be burnt to a crisp, but it was okay. I was however quite worried when the tour guide said that we would be back at our hotel at about 7:30. That was Mexican time and we arrived back at about 9:00 p.m. I was so exhausted, so today will be spent recuperating. I am also having some trouble posting pictures, but will try again. Pictures are always worth a thousand words. Not that I have trouble coming up with a thousand words, but to get you guys to READ a thousand words, now that is a problem. Could someone let Flo's family know the link to this blog, so they can also keep up with their parents? So in the three or so days since we've been here Florence has put over 500 pics on her camera. Puts our 20 or so to shame. So we WILL have lots of pics, so you will see a lot! The next post will be dedicated to pictures, so the Lord willing and I'm able.....enjoy!
Riviera Maya
This has been a cumbersund (sp) oh why am I even using that word! Regardless a very difficult adventure to find time for blogging. I really want you all to know about what a great time we are having, but am finding so little time to do so! Today has been reserved for that purpose. So whenever I find a moment, and am in the right spot, AND can connect to the internet, I'll let you know whats been going on.
Yesterday, Flo, Bill and I went to Chicenitza. To say it was spectacular is a real understatement! The knowledge and customs of the people of that era is absolutely breathtaking. We learned so much that it was hard to grasp everything in one day.
While we were doing that. Dad went deep sea fishing. He was smart and took some Gravol beforehand, so while his stomach held out over rough seas, those of his partners did not. He did have a great time and caught a lot of fish. Big fish too! Although he did not have the camera, his group was from Alberta and they took many pics and we're hoping they will e-mail them to us.
Yesterday, Flo, Bill and I went to Chicenitza. To say it was spectacular is a real understatement! The knowledge and customs of the people of that era is absolutely breathtaking. We learned so much that it was hard to grasp everything in one day.
While we were doing that. Dad went deep sea fishing. He was smart and took some Gravol beforehand, so while his stomach held out over rough seas, those of his partners did not. He did have a great time and caught a lot of fish. Big fish too! Although he did not have the camera, his group was from Alberta and they took many pics and we're hoping they will e-mail them to us.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
First Day
Hard to believe I am saying this but regardless, What a busy day! Please forgive me in advance for the spelling mistakes, but i'M doing this in the dark, and it is what it is. Today we went into Playa del Carmen and did some non-shopping. Tomorrow, Florence, Bill and I arte doing an excursion while dad is going deep sea fishing. Sorry still no pics but I'M having a prooblem in remembering how to do it. We are soon off to bed, so we'll talk to you tomorrow eveigning evening and let you know what's up. lOVE you all, goodnight
Mayan Riviera
Yesterday we enjoyed a day of strictly just travelling. After arriving at the airport shortly after 7:00 am, we had a wonderful fight and arrived, after the time change and all other things, we were at the hotel at about 8:00. Our room is beautiful, were greeted by very friendly hotel employees, amenities right up where we want them.
We are on the third floor, but there is a working elevator. The view is awesome.
We were greeted this morning to a wonderful display of all of the non paying guests of the hotel. A large group of Okapi and some beautiful birds that kind of look like red winged blackbirds and sound like them, but their backs are bright blue and their insides are dark. Absolutley beautiful. Hope the pictures work out. The internet is sporadic and slow and only available out of our room so we'll need some time to figure things out.
I'll post more info later. Love you all and talk to you later.
We are on the third floor, but there is a working elevator. The view is awesome.
We were greeted this morning to a wonderful display of all of the non paying guests of the hotel. A large group of Okapi and some beautiful birds that kind of look like red winged blackbirds and sound like them, but their backs are bright blue and their insides are dark. Absolutley beautiful. Hope the pictures work out. The internet is sporadic and slow and only available out of our room so we'll need some time to figure things out.
I'll post more info later. Love you all and talk to you later.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Vancouver 01/08/13
When snow falls from the sky, you don't get nearly as wet as when rain comes pouring down. My my my, it is some wet down here in the big city. Dad had a very successful aftrnoon playing poker. I didn't quite keep up by shopping his winnings away, but I got what I wanted. It really was all good. There was a men's dress shop closing out which had some nicely coloured shirts which made him very happy. Also made a stop at Old Navy and of course Smart Set. Met up with Erica, went out for dinner, and are now back at the hotel room. It will be an early turn in tonight. Tomorrow we start the real adventure.
Sweet sweet Peanut has realized that things are not so bad at the Poelmans. She has relized that although it might be a long time for her, Maya will look after her well so she has stopped crying (at least for now).
So until tomorrow, we bid you for now a goodnight. Love to you all. Talk to you from good old Mexico!
Sweet sweet Peanut has realized that things are not so bad at the Poelmans. She has relized that although it might be a long time for her, Maya will look after her well so she has stopped crying (at least for now).
So until tomorrow, we bid you for now a goodnight. Love to you all. Talk to you from good old Mexico!
Monday, January 7, 2013
On the road again
Our new adventure begins today! We are on our way to Playa del Carmen Mexico with Florence and Bill. We left Telkwa today to overnight in Vanderhoof. After stopping by Chelsey's we went to pick up Maya at school. It was very cool. Seeing her and all her little classmates all in uniforms. She is in a little house that houses just the kindergarten. So nice and bright and clean and tidy. Seems like just yesterday Chelsey was in kindergarten. So tomorrow we leave for Vancouver and we'll let you know of any excitement then.
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