We decided to do something different this year.  No breakfast in bed or steak dinner.  Just a fun day with each other. So we took an early morning drive up to Mountain High in the San Gabriel Mountains for a day of snowboarding.  The weather was perfect.  Warm and beautiful, just the way we like it.

The mountain was busy but we found some trails that had a lot less traffic and enjoyed a solid 4 hours of snowboarding.  Then the The All-Star tried to be a little more All-Starry than he actually is.  He landed the jump fine the first time around.  It was the second time when we tried to get the perfect camera shot that the accident happened.

As the ambulance backed away from the mountain first-aid station, he smiled, I smiled back. Bye Valentine.

One helicopter ride for him, and an hour drive for me later, we were reunited at the Antelope Valley Hospital for pain killers and x-rays.

Together again. That is until they wheeled him off to the operating table.

And as I sat there in the OR waiting room, alone and worried, watching China’s short-program duo break their own world record, I realized what better way to show you care than to be there for the one you love.  Sure it sucked, and I wanted to cry a couple of times, but I knew I had to be strong when they wheeled him back out. Later, as I tried to sleep in the chair next to his hospital bed, holding his hand, I decided that that was what Valentine’s Day is really all about.  I was showing my favorite that I love him and in the best way I know how. I was by his side when he needed me.  And when he looked up and apologized, I finally let a few tears drop and assured him that I was just happy that he was okay, and that we were together.  And I meant it.

Monday morning after a long night and a long car ride, we were finally home, safe and almost sound, and there was a sweet surprise awaiting me there. Thanks baby!  I love you too!

Apparently, he took these out of their hiding place when he ran back in on Sunday to get the camera.  Stupid camera, the cause of all this.

So that was my holiday. The important thing is that he’s okay and while he’s in a lot of pain now, and may be for a while, it was just a couple of broken bones and they will certainly heal. And he’s in for a couple of weeks of coddling and special attention. Valentine’s Day should be every day, right? Looks like it will be.

A new year and a new decade, for the calender as well as for myself.  Today it’s official…I am30 years old!  I can hardly believe it.  I don’t feel any different, though the number itself is quite daunting.  At the moment what I really feel is exhausted, as I have been up since 4:45 and am now sitting in McCannan Airport in Las Vegas, waiting for our connecting flight to Long Beach, California.  It was a long but enjoyable holiday vacation in New York for The All-Star and I.  We enjoyed the company of family and friends, took a day trip to Manhattan to visit the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree and saw a great off-Broadway show entitled Sessions.  Saturday was the start of my birthday celebration with family during the day and friends at night and last night we shivered in the below zero wind-chill to watch the Jets clobber the Bengals and win their spot in the play-offs.

At present I’m blogging to you from my new Asus net-book which I’m very excited about.  The Eee PC is the perfect size for lounging and writing and I no longer have to fight for computer time with my more savvy counterpart.  The mini lap-top was a Christmas gift from my dad.  Other fabulous gifts received:  a new 4-piece Protocol luggage set with swiveling wheels!, two round trip tickets to Catalina Island!, and a Mark Sanchez Jets jersey! (women’s fit, of course).  We were also fortunate enough to have some snow which always tops the cake for me.  It was sad to leave all my loved ones, but it won’t be long before we’re back in New York and I can’t say I’m going to miss sleeping on a couch every night.  I may just have to spend the rest of my birthday in bed this year, just because it’s such a comfy place to be and I definitely have a few z’s to catch up on.

Thank you to everyone who made the trip so memorable.  Much love and hugs to all.

Tomorrow marks the start of my Turning 30, 30 day fitness challenge.  It’s a late-start work day which means no 6am alarm, thank goodness.  I bought myself a new pair of sneakers with some of the Christmas money from Grandmas and think I’ll kick off the challenge with some good stretches and a jog to the beach.  I rapped a little about the challenge with my good friend Julia, who happens to be a certified health and nutrition counselor and the founder of Long Island Holistic Health.  We decided a handful of nuts and fruit will be suitable pre-run fuel.  Tonight I’ll work on a food and activity layout for the challenge and welcome any suggestions from all you talented professionals out there.

If you’re interested, pictures of the holiday will be posted when I have a better Wi-fi connection.  Sorry for the “just-words” post.  Until California.  Old-lady Laura signing out.

Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us.  ~Hal Borland

The cliche of the New Year is upon us.  December came and went being exactly what it always has been and January followed obediantly, bringing with it promises of a great year and resolution successes.  I for one have never much bought into the hype of a new number at the end of the date meaning it’s time to change my flaws and become the best I can be. But, for the sake of conformity, I did give thought to a pattern or two I may be able to change.  So here’s a little list of New Year’s resolutions I hope to pay a little mind.

Laura’s New Year’s Resolutions

1. Text less, call more

2. Blog daily

3. Exercise regularly…starting with my “Turning 30, 30 Day Fitness Challenge” to begin on January 5th

Nothing too complicating.  Just a few things that I believe will strengthen my ability to “cultivate my wellness.”

What are you promising yourself for the New Year?!

This is it folks.  The final moments.  There are exactly 48 hours left to shop and bake and make plans for holiday cheer.  I for one have felt pretty mellow about the whole thing this year.  Granted there were some scary moments, particularly when booking my airplane tickets to New York.  Luckily I had The All-Star there to talk me through it.

The shopping, fortunately, was much less terrifying.  I did it right this time I guess.  I waited till almost the last minute, thought nothing about it before-hand, closed my eyes, pictured each loved one and…Eureka! the perfect gift ideas came rushing to me and just as I approached the appropriate shopping venue.  Okay, so it wasn’t that easy.  But it kinda was.  I wouldn’t allow it to be any other way.  I’m over the gift shopping hoopla that we’re supposed to surrender to each year.  I’ll still be giving gifts, but I didn’t get all stressed out preparing.  And as soon as I did feel myself slipping into consumer anguish, I simply stopped and moved on.  My gifts are all from my un-agonizing heart and will be given in person which I think is the best part.  Besides, my parents will still love me even if they hate the pot-holders I made them, and I’m sure The All-Star won’t leave me just because he’s getting a year’s worth of fruit.  (Just kidding guys. And sorry for being so cliche.)

But I’m serious about my presence being the best present, at least for me.  I’m so happy that I’ll spending the holidays with my family and friends who I miss so much and can not wait to see.  Sure there will be a whole lot of rushing around, and fitting everyone in and making sure I remember how to drive in the snow.  It’ll be cold…and windy…and rainy…and perfect.  And it will be home…the place that I know I can always go and no one cares want I look like, or smell like (eh hem, we all remember I’m taking the red eye, right?), and where there will always be a warm place to lay my head, even if it’s a couch, and the blankets will be laid out with love.

So I’ll be home for Christmas folks.  You can count of me.  I know you’ve got snow, John get out the mistletoe, and who cares if there’s presents under the tree.  I’ll be with home for Christmas, it’s the present of my dreams!

Last night was the annual Boat Parade Christmas Party at my friend Mika’s house, hosted by his oh-so-fabulous landlords.  The food was delicious, all home-made recipes prepared by the loving hands of our hostess, and the crowd was eager to laugh and share in the seasonal glee.  Since both my friend and I were going stag, we decided that instead of dressing up in our holiday best, we’d instead dress up like elves and offer an elfy helping hand to our generous hosts.

At first I felt a little silly about the idea, dressing up like a fictitious “red” collar worker and prancing around like a funny sort of thing.  But shortly after arriving, I knew why we thought to do it and we took our places as the on-hand-helping-hands (who also got to fill their bellies and enjoy the Christmas “spirits”).  The guests thought it was a riot and our hosts didn’t have to worry so much about all the extra work throwing a party entails.  It was the kind of giving that reminds me of what the holidays are all about.  Instead of just enjoying ourselves we decided to give a little back.

As Christmas drawers closer, I will to continue to share gifts with others.  Some will have been bought at the store, and others home-made, but the ones that will fill my heart with the most joy are the ones that don’t cost anything at all.  They are the random acts I kindness that each of us are given the opportunity to give on any day, to anyone, and anywhere.  In this elf’s opinion, that’s the best gift of all!

It’s difficult being away from family at this time before the holidays.  I wish they could see how I’ve decorated my home and share with them warm meals and other festive goodies.  Luckily this year I’ll be flying back to New York this Christmas Eve and the following morning will be just as it was before I moved to another state.

It’s odd living in California in the winter time.  For years, the holidays meant it was cold outside and taking a walk down an illuminated street was accompanied by a warm cup of cocoa and a few layers of wool.  As crazy as it sounds, I do miss the cold, however nice it is to not have to bundle up all the time.  In fact, one of the coolest parts about this sunny side of the country is Christmas on the water.  My Florida family have been telling me about this for years.  Decorated boat parades and Christmas light contests.  It was not until I traveled 3000 miles away from my norm that I was able to take part in this fantastic holiday tradition.

Last night, after some delicious sushi and Saki, The All-Star and I drove down to Naples in Long Beach to enjoy some of their festive flare.  The temperature of the air was probably 60º which was the first “hooray” in my book.

Here’s a little bit about Naples for those who don’t know….  Many of the homes are on canals which run throughout this little part of town.  What makes it so unique (for me) is that the front of the homes are on the canals instead of the backyards, (which is what I’m used to), and there’s a sidewalk between the water and the properties with little bridges to walk and drive over and for boats to pass under.  It’s a very cool part of town.  Over the summer The All-Star and I kayaked through this area, not realizing at the time we were actually looking at the front of these beautiful beach dwellings.

So last night was the judging contest for this year’s “California Dreamin’” Christmas theme.  There were lots of folks walking up and down the canals and connecting streets, admiring the hard work of these most fortunate home owners.  A very cool sight to see.  I have to say that although I certainly do miss Christmas in New York, (not a whole lot beats that Rockefeller tree), seeing this light show on the water does get me into the holiday spirit.  How lucky I am to be able to experience both sides this year…the cold weather with the love of my family to keep me warm, and the warm weather with the excitement of the holidays to bring joy into my heart!

Happy Holidays!

I’m so happy to back to the blog.  Sadly, between travel and moving, there’s been little time to write.  I’ve felt a mild sense of stress and emptiness these pass two weeks.  I guess I really love my work.  That or I’m addicted to the blog.  Anyway, it’s good to be back!

My Florida Thanksgiving vacation was a wonderful trip.  I spent time with family that I hadn’t seen in years, ate Grandma’s cooking (which is always the best), and sat around doing a whole lot of nothing.  For exercise I took walks, went wake boarding with the teenagers, hit golf balls at the club house, and did Yogilates with my new Aunt Teresa.  Now that’s doin’ it Florida style.  The weather was okay. It could have been warmer but I didn’t mind.  Only the people from the colder climates were looking for a more “fun in the sun” vacation.  In California I’ve got that every day of the year.

Here’s a pic of the Thanksgiving dinner crowd…

Now for the “Wild Blue Yonder Adventure” part…

The voyage back on Tuesday was a journey indeed.  We left my grandparents house in Palm City, Florida at 8:00 am Eastern Standard Time.  It was a 45 minute drive to West Palm Beach Airport, which Teresa was kind enough to be the driver for.  Checking in was painless and so was security, leaving us plenty of time.  And what better to do with free time than shop.  I bought a painted flamingo to match my new pink bathroom.  Tacky city and I love it!

From West Palm we took a short flight to Charlotte,  North Carolina.  There we deboarded for lunch.  I had my first taste of deep fried pickle.  Just writing about it is making my mouth water.

Of all the airports I’ve been to, this has to be my favorite.  They had beautiful Christmas trees of pointsettia and ivy, Santa Clause was riding around with all his jolly cheer, and all along the food court there were rocking chairs for your sitting pleasure .

The All-Star said this was the greatest idea ever.  I found a sense of serenity watching my fellow travelers rocking in the sunshine.

After lunch we got back on the same plane and took another short flight to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  Time of arrival: 2:38 pm Eastern Standard Time.  Hours of travel:  6.38 hours.

We had a two and a half hour long layover in Pittsburgh so we found a spot for another bite to eat.  Things to enjoy at Pittsburgh airport? An art exhibit showcasing the life of Andy Warhol as well as a display dedicated to Fred Rogers and Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood.

I’d like to take a moment to explain the difficulties people were having with the boarding process.  The All-Star and I were boarding for the 3rd time that day and we pretty much had it down.  Our carry-ons fit under the seats, we knew where our seats were located and we avoided the mad rush.  Others did not have such luck.  The over-head compartments filled quickly and many had to check their bags, couples were getting separated and those seated near emergency exits were disgruntle about the “job requirements.”  One poor stewardess really heard it from the woman sitting in front of me.  She complained about the airline and the customer service.  I felt sorry for them both actually.  Who needs extra baggage when traveling, right?

From Pittsburgh, PA we flew to Denver, Colorado.  Landing time was 7:13 pm Mountain Standard Time.

At this point I had no idea what time its was on the East Coast nor how many hours I had been traveling.  I only new that all the take-offs, landings and being in the “Mile High City” has taken their toll and I had had enough.  I was hungry but full-feeling, tired but wired, I had a headache and was beginning to get cranky.  I opted for a tall cup of Tazo Calm Tea.  It helped, and just in time to board our last flight to our final destination.  Time of take-off: 8:50 pm.  Flight time: I don’t even know…

I slept most of this flight which was great because according to The All-Star it was the worst flight of the day.  There was a dog he became allergic to sitting behind us, a girl who talked the whole time, a woman who laughed very loudly, and an old lady who kept kicking his seat.  Poor guy, he was ready to be home too.  We arrived safely in Orange County, California, on-time and so did our luggage.  After a ten minute cab ride we were home sweet almost home and ready for bed.

Time of arrival:  11:15  pm Pacific Time.  Total air-travel time: 4 hours and 24 minutes.  Miles traveled: 3,695 miles. Time from door to door: 15 hours.

Now for the lesson, do we still have time for a lesson?  While both The All-Star and I had our shared moments of “stress” during this journey, we practiced  patience and endurance.  The goal was “home” and we had to keep moving.  We could have become angry or frustrated more than we did.  I could have taken my crankiness out on my travel partner, or the poor stewardesses.   We could have got good and drunk at an airport restaurant and disturbed our fellow travelers.  And I could have bought a heck of a lot more than a silly pink flamingo and regretted my purchases later.  But no!  We kept our chins up and took advantage of seeing the county via airports. We joked that next time Jet Blue offers 30 days of unlimited flights for $599 we’d taken advantage and see the nation.  It’s still not a bad idea.  We have certainly become pros at air travel. But for now I’ve had my fill and for the next 3 weeks I’m staying on the ground.  Luckily our flights to New York for Christmas will be a little less time, and patience, consuming, I hope.

I received this recipe through an email recipe exchange that I’m participating in.  It was sent by The All-Star’s lovely cousin Maria (thanks girl).  I thought I’d share it all with you…just in time for Turkey Day. 

Citrus Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups sugar or sugar substitute
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• zest of 1 orange
• zest of 1 lemon
• 24 oz fresh cranberries

Directions

• Place water, sugar and cinnamon sticks into a 4 quart sauce pot and bring to a boil.  Lower heat and simmer, stirring until sugar has dissolved.
• Stir in zest and cook at a slow boil until syrup has reduced by one-half and the zest is soft and candied, about 10 – 15 minutes.  Remove the zest with a fork and spread out onto waxed paper to cool.
• Add the cranberries and cook over low heat, stirring, until they pop.  Remove from heat, return zest to the pot and cool at room temperature.
• Remove cinnamon sticks, stir well, and transfer to a bowl.  Can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator up to three days. 
• For best flavor remove from refrigerator one hour before serving.

Serves 8-10

ENJOY!