I was enlightened today on the ways of the world from an 8 year old's perspective. A very special little girl who is wise beyond her years. She's kind, caring, sensitive, compassionate, and beautiful. She's my god daughter - Jaden.
_______________________________________________________
On Being the Oldest Child
Jaden - "You know Steph, I've always wanted an older brother or sister"
Me - "Me too Jaden, it's hard being the oldest, isn't it?"
Jaden - "Yep, I just want to have someone to look up to as a role model. Ethan has me and I need someone so I can teach him what's right"
Me - "Lot's of responsibility being the oldest aren't there?"
Jaden "Yep, I like it though"
Me - "Me too..."
Jaden "I tell Ethan to not listen to people when he hears bad words"
Me "Well that's good"
Jaden "I'm trying to be the best big sister I can"
Me "You're doing a great job"
__________________________________________________
On What it Means to be Rich
Me - "Do you like school Jade?"
Jaden - "Yes but it's kind of boring"
Me - "What makes it boring?"
Jaden "We just do the same thing over and over..."
Me - "Sounds boring.."
Jaden "One girl in my class tells me that she has an email account and a DS but she doesn't, she must be lying, she's just saying that cause I have them"
Me - "She probably is envious and wants to be like you"
Jaden "Doesn't she know that everyone has different things and so I would like to have what she has, but I don't lie"
Me - "It's good to tell the truth"
Jaden "Some kids even say "I'm soooo rich, I have this and that but rich isn't just about money, is it?" "Being rich means you have people you love, and love you back and you have things you love, doesn't matter what they are, as long as you love them". "I tell them I'm rich too"
Me - "Sounds like you are rich, I feel rich too Jade"
Jaden "Do you have lots of money?"
Me - "No but I have lots of people and things I love"
Jaden "Well then you're rich"
Me - "I am"
_______________________________________________________
On Friendships
Jaden "Some people are meant to be together and that's why they're friends" "If you're not friends with someone it's because you're not meant to be together - you and mom are meant to be together and me and Grace are too"
Me "I think you're right, good point"
Jaden "If someone is mean to you"
Me "Then you don't have to be friends"
Jaden "No, you should say "I think we should spend some time apart and then try to be friends again another time"
Me "Or you could do that I guess"
Jaden "You should give it a shot"
Me "I think so, if it makes you feel good"
Jaden "It makes me feel good to be nice to people"
Me "Then that's what you should do"
On Being Cool
Jaden "Some girls at my school think it's cool to be mean to other girls, you know, like not include them"
Me "I don't think that's cool at all Jade"
Jaden "Me neither - If they exclude someone then I'll play with that person. I think that's cooler"
Me "Me too... How do they know what's cool"
Jaden "Yeah, who makes the cool rules anyways?"
Me "I don't think there is cool rules"
Jaden "Well then I guess we all have different thoughts on what's cool"
Me "Guess so.."
________________________________________________________________
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Sunday, July 10, 2011
On the Road Again
It was a great day to be on the road again. Since the 2010 PEI Marathon, the farthest I've ran has been 400m during my Crossfit workouts. Today, Becs and I did a 7km run together. Gosh it felt good to have my running partner back. AND now she's gone again:(
Running has always been a mental challenge for me. I hate feeling uncomfortable and like I can't breathe. Today was no exception to this but what I noticed has changed is my reaction to the uncomfortableness... I stayed calm and positive - knowing that in a mere 10-15mins the torture would end and I'd still be alive. I guess I'm used to feeling uncomfortable at Crossfit, so this run was no big deal.
The run today was a testament to how awesome Crossfit is. I have not trained my running and today I could run at a faster pace AND push through. It was not pretty (red faced, sucking wind like no other) but I did it. That's all that matters. I'm in much better shape as last season it took me approx 2 months to work up to that distance. Did I mention how much I love Crossfit?..
I definitely need to run more often now - just to get the body used to the impact again but I am confident that this year's marathon will be better than the last. My goal is to shave off some time in the 1/2 and judging by today - this will be possible..
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
A Moment of Reflection
This post is dedicated to everyone who is fighting or has battled cancer.
The world has lost two great men and heaven has gained two angels. Barry Doucette and Barry Dawson - both who passed away this week from cancer. As much as I can understand that there is a circle of life - I'm saddened that in the last 2 days it was their time.
Barry Doucette, 59 years
A gentle man who I respected for his courage, strength and love he had for his family. Being a "Doucette" is an honor, in my opinion, a tight knit crew who you know will be there through thick and thin and 'have each other's backs'. Barry had a quiet strength and a contagious giggle. I would always want to 'do good' for him when I was in his house because of the respect I have for him. I remember being a teenager (and a challenging one I was) and attempting to do the dishes after a meal at his house. He quickly reminded me that I was a guest and to stop being crazy... It's funny that at that age and period in my life I felt a need to do something nice for him. What a lasting impression he's had on me.
He was a hard worker who took pride in the job he did. He always wanted to have peace in his life and home and worked hard to get it. I believe he achieved that goal. He raised 2 wonderful daughters, both who I love dearly. He was their biggest fans and I know he'll be cheering them on from above.
Barry Dawson, 71 years
A man's man - strong, dignified, committed and a family man. I remember him to be his daughters biggest fans poolside. He understood our sport and knew what it took to succeed. I remember him to be faithful at attending church services at Cornwall United. I always envied his loyalty to the Church - every week he would tow his kids to the services and it actually appeared as if they wanted to be there. Maybe they just loved being with their Dad. I think that's probably it. He had a strong, authoritative voice and you listened when he spoke. I automatically respected him because of 'the voice'. He believed in hard work and had many business endeavors going all at once. This has rubbed off on his kids. What a gift he gave them.
Cancer - it's an ugly word and is an illness I wouldn't wish on anyone. It does however, bring out the fighters and survivors in people. It can, in some cases, be a God send. It can be painful and exhausting. I don't know what it feels like to be battling a disease so powerful and I hope I don't have to experience it. I respect every person who is battling an illness now. You are my heros. I want to do better for the people who can't. I want to respect my life and love it. It's a gift.
Until the other day, I was scared of death. Joline, one of Barry Dawson's daughters said to me that she had a beautiful last couple of days with him. Peaceful and reflective. A real celebration of what was. Family surrounding both Barry's in their last moments. That doesn't feel so scary. In times of loss or sadness, I believe in honoring those who lived and fought. I will not take life for granted. I will get up in the morning happy to be alive and healthy. That's the least I can do.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Pinch Me!
Pinch me, I must be dreaming....
The start of my married life has been amazing and overwhelming. It just seems that things have finally come together and I have passed GO on the Monopoly Board and am collecting my dues.
Our wedding was unreal and more importantly FUN. We danced all night long and I came to learn that my new hubby has moves even I haven't seen before. A little split action, foot jump through (ask him to demo this one) and hours of sober (for some..hehe) fun. I didn't think it could be that good. By the end of the night me and one of my BFF's were 'moshing' on the dance floor to Pink's "Raise Your Glass" while I was in my wedding dress, I thought "This is the life". Truly celebrating a new beginning.
After our amazing honeymoon to Mexico, Mike and I returned home to a couple of weeks later start looking for our 1st home. After looking at a few homes - we found 'our' home. The home buying process is exciting and all new to us. Contacting this person and that person, getting financing, home insurance, home inspection and the list goes on. In a mere 3 weeks we will be in our new home. What a whirlwind!
Mike and I were overwhelmed with our family and friend's generosity - we received some great gifts and financial contributions to our new house and honeymoon. I can't thank everyone enough! I hope you all enjoy your Thank You cards that will get to you sometime soon (hopefully - damn postal strike). One of the gifts we received from a family friend was a time share anywhere we'd like to go. As going on trips is a hobby now for Mike and I, it seems, we were thrilled! We chose Orlando, FL and are spending 6 days at the Bonnett Creek resort in FL. We purchased our plane tickets on points and so we're heading to Florida for $200.00! We're going down for Mike's birthday in September and hitting up the theme parks and attractions. Can't wait.
After all of this - I recently found out that I will be heading to the UANA Pan American Championships in Montreal August 17-21st where one of the Naiads Senior Duets (Katie and Bridget Carter) will be representing Canada in the Senior Free Duet category. This is a huge accomplishment for the Naiads to be selected to compete at an event of this calibre. We have all worked so hard over the last 10 years to achieve this goal and it's here. To say it's a 'dream come true' for me is an understatement. I couldn't be happier!
I've decided to not focus on when this period of awesomeness will end and just savor every minute. Be grateful for these gifts and not take anything for granted.
The start of my married life has been amazing and overwhelming. It just seems that things have finally come together and I have passed GO on the Monopoly Board and am collecting my dues.
Our wedding was unreal and more importantly FUN. We danced all night long and I came to learn that my new hubby has moves even I haven't seen before. A little split action, foot jump through (ask him to demo this one) and hours of sober (for some..hehe) fun. I didn't think it could be that good. By the end of the night me and one of my BFF's were 'moshing' on the dance floor to Pink's "Raise Your Glass" while I was in my wedding dress, I thought "This is the life". Truly celebrating a new beginning.
After our amazing honeymoon to Mexico, Mike and I returned home to a couple of weeks later start looking for our 1st home. After looking at a few homes - we found 'our' home. The home buying process is exciting and all new to us. Contacting this person and that person, getting financing, home insurance, home inspection and the list goes on. In a mere 3 weeks we will be in our new home. What a whirlwind!
Mike and I were overwhelmed with our family and friend's generosity - we received some great gifts and financial contributions to our new house and honeymoon. I can't thank everyone enough! I hope you all enjoy your Thank You cards that will get to you sometime soon (hopefully - damn postal strike). One of the gifts we received from a family friend was a time share anywhere we'd like to go. As going on trips is a hobby now for Mike and I, it seems, we were thrilled! We chose Orlando, FL and are spending 6 days at the Bonnett Creek resort in FL. We purchased our plane tickets on points and so we're heading to Florida for $200.00! We're going down for Mike's birthday in September and hitting up the theme parks and attractions. Can't wait.
After all of this - I recently found out that I will be heading to the UANA Pan American Championships in Montreal August 17-21st where one of the Naiads Senior Duets (Katie and Bridget Carter) will be representing Canada in the Senior Free Duet category. This is a huge accomplishment for the Naiads to be selected to compete at an event of this calibre. We have all worked so hard over the last 10 years to achieve this goal and it's here. To say it's a 'dream come true' for me is an understatement. I couldn't be happier!
I've decided to not focus on when this period of awesomeness will end and just savor every minute. Be grateful for these gifts and not take anything for granted.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Poppo's Marriage Tips
We have a lot to learn from our elders. My Grandfather "Poppo" loves sharing his marriage wisdom. As he and my Grammie were married for 69years - I would consider him a Marriage Guru. Really - how often do you hear of couples standing the test of time and that length of time?
My grandparents were married young and spent a lot of their early married life apart. Poppo at war and Grammie at home taking care of children and the house. Their love was to be admired throughout their marriage. They shared the same interests, they had their own 'inside jokes', they believed in traditional roles and thrived in them, they presented a united front for their children (from my experiences, perception) they were loyal to eachother and respected eachother.
My Poppo loves to talk about my Grammie. Everytime he mentions her he smiles and tears up. We were at coffee this morning and he was asking me what it felt like to be a married woman. My first emotion was that I was feeling sad about changing my last name to Chaloner. Only because I've been "Stephanie Gee" for almost 31years. I had a love, hate relationship with my last name. Many times people would pronounce it "Guy" or say "Stephanie Wha?" or write "Stephanie G.", "Stephanie Geek" was a common childhood occurrence. "Stephanie Gee Hover", "Stephanie Gee Willikers", "Gee Stephanie!" and the list goes on. I accomplished a lot as Stephanie Gee. I'm proud of my family and loved having the family name. "So why change?" my Poppo asks.... Good question.
I respect tradition and love my husband. I'm proud of being married to him and will proudly represent the "Chaloner's". I respect 'our' family. I tear up as I'm explaining this at Walmart McDonald's and my Poppo tears up thinking of my Grammie. We're a great pair. haha.
Shelly, our wedding photographer (and friend), mentioned my Poppo in her latest blog. http://photographybyshelly.ca/blog/mike-stephanie/ She said it touched her to see the love for my grandmother and when asked what's the secret to a long lasting marriage, with tears in his eyes, he says "You have to be a good listener".
Today, Poppo wanted to share more advice. He says "If you and your husband get into an argument, walk away for a few minutes, you may be able to see a different side". "Don't hold onto things, laugh your arguments off". "Never go to bed without saying I love you". This is when we both were crying.
"Respect your husband/wife", "Don't talk down to them".
Everyone deserves the love and marriage that my grandparents shared. Their marriage was a great model for me and after my few "false starts" (as my Dad would say), I held out for something like they have. I found it and now it's our job (Mike and I) to keep it.
I've heard people say before that "Marriage won't change things - won't solve your problems". I'm glad because I don't want things to change.
At 90 years old and 69 years of marriage Poppo still loves my Grammie like the day he met her. I think it's so sweet that he still gets emotional, she can still make him laugh, smile or tug at his heart strings. He almost forgot his coffee sticker off the side of his cup this morning. He says "Oh Jeez Freda (Grammie) would kill me if I forgot this" "She was great at counting pennies". And that's why they have/had so many. What a woman!
My grandparents were married young and spent a lot of their early married life apart. Poppo at war and Grammie at home taking care of children and the house. Their love was to be admired throughout their marriage. They shared the same interests, they had their own 'inside jokes', they believed in traditional roles and thrived in them, they presented a united front for their children (from my experiences, perception) they were loyal to eachother and respected eachother.
My Poppo loves to talk about my Grammie. Everytime he mentions her he smiles and tears up. We were at coffee this morning and he was asking me what it felt like to be a married woman. My first emotion was that I was feeling sad about changing my last name to Chaloner. Only because I've been "Stephanie Gee" for almost 31years. I had a love, hate relationship with my last name. Many times people would pronounce it "Guy" or say "Stephanie Wha?" or write "Stephanie G.", "Stephanie Geek" was a common childhood occurrence. "Stephanie Gee Hover", "Stephanie Gee Willikers", "Gee Stephanie!" and the list goes on. I accomplished a lot as Stephanie Gee. I'm proud of my family and loved having the family name. "So why change?" my Poppo asks.... Good question.
I respect tradition and love my husband. I'm proud of being married to him and will proudly represent the "Chaloner's". I respect 'our' family. I tear up as I'm explaining this at Walmart McDonald's and my Poppo tears up thinking of my Grammie. We're a great pair. haha.
Shelly, our wedding photographer (and friend), mentioned my Poppo in her latest blog. http://photographybyshelly.ca/blog/mike-stephanie/ She said it touched her to see the love for my grandmother and when asked what's the secret to a long lasting marriage, with tears in his eyes, he says "You have to be a good listener".
Today, Poppo wanted to share more advice. He says "If you and your husband get into an argument, walk away for a few minutes, you may be able to see a different side". "Don't hold onto things, laugh your arguments off". "Never go to bed without saying I love you". This is when we both were crying.
"Respect your husband/wife", "Don't talk down to them".
Everyone deserves the love and marriage that my grandparents shared. Their marriage was a great model for me and after my few "false starts" (as my Dad would say), I held out for something like they have. I found it and now it's our job (Mike and I) to keep it.
I've heard people say before that "Marriage won't change things - won't solve your problems". I'm glad because I don't want things to change.
At 90 years old and 69 years of marriage Poppo still loves my Grammie like the day he met her. I think it's so sweet that he still gets emotional, she can still make him laugh, smile or tug at his heart strings. He almost forgot his coffee sticker off the side of his cup this morning. He says "Oh Jeez Freda (Grammie) would kill me if I forgot this" "She was great at counting pennies". And that's why they have/had so many. What a woman!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
The Honeymooners - Part Deux
Another amazing Spa visit. We decided to spend our last night at the Secrets in the Hydrotherapy Circuit (again) and a dinner at my favorite a la carte. Just when you think your skin can't get any smoother, hair silkier, muscles looser - it happens. I think on the final day I can honestly say that every ounce of me was relaxed. What a great feeling.
Our 'last' supper was excellent - I ordered a new york steak with 3 different sides. The waiter looks at me and says "Ahh big plate". What are you trying to say Senor? - mind your bizness... I thought...haha. I asked for orange juice and what he brought me was a powdered kool aid type deal. Off of refined sugar for 6 months, I decided to have a couple of 'sips' of this tangy/sweet goodness.
Special Advisory: A Sugar Rush DOES exist. For all of the people that say sugar does not affect your body. Wrong.
I was on a high, chattering up a storm, I couldn't stop myself. I had great ideas and conversation with my new husband. I walked a little faster, little extra sway in my hips. Ahhh the amazing things that sugar can do.
Sarah & Brad
On my sugar high we retired to our room. Lying in bed reading and thinking (again, amazing what sugar can do:) )I suddenly hear what sounds to be someone crying. About 5mins later - I confirm that it, in fact, a girl is crying in the room next to us. I put down my trashy romance novel and listen. Not sure why - maybe I would knock on her door to see if she needed help. For the next hour, Mike and I had front row seats to the Sarah & Brad domestic dispute.
Sarah: Why do you think I had to get room service on my own? You weren't there for me!
Brad: Sarah, I love you but I'm tired of you acting like a fool when you're drunk!
Sarah: You've never made me feel like this before. Like nothing. I've never felt so upset. I'm lying here crying and you don't care!! (she was, we heard it)
Brad: F**K you Sarah. (Brad starts to get belligerent, then head's to the deck for another drink..)
This went on for approx an hour. I was concocting a plan of how to make it stop. It was a typical drunken couple argument. Dramatic, silly and the 2 kept saying the same things over and over... I finally decided I would call their room and pretend I was the front desk (Why? not sure - guess it was the sugar). I was practicing (in my head) my Spanish accent when it FINALLY stopped. Mike was confident they'd fight themselves to sleep, me... not so much.
The next morning was going home day. I was gitty as we hadn't been a married couple on PEI for more than 24hours. I was ready to come home and had a sugar hangover. We, both relaxed and rested, were ready for our own food. The food in Mexico was awesome - everything so flavorful and fresh but we did suffer from the traveler's diareese. We didn't hold back at any meal and paid for it in the mornings. We were apprehensive about our plane ride home. I decided to head to a mexican drugstore (in the airport - not THAT adventurous) to find some Immodium - just in case. I looked around everywhere to no avail. Finally asked the guy at the counter for it and in broken english he pulls out a 'no name' package with a mexican label and says "Here take 1". Mike and I looked at each other with the "Here goes nothing" look and down the hatch the tiny white pills went. Still not sure what they were but we didn't have any rushed trips to the bathroom on the plane.
We arrived in Moncton at 11:30pm, picked up our car and hit the open road. I, by this time, was slightly cranky. I had a case of the back seat driver and so was trying to tell Mike how to drive.
Screeeechhh! He pulls over to the side of the highway:
"Do you want to drive" he says in a stern voice
"Yes!" I say with confidence
We switched sides and away I went. Put the cruise control on and thought to myself Now THIS is how you do it.....
Karma's a bitch. 30mins later I was cross eyed and rubber necking. Damn! I thought. I should have let him drive. Note: We had been driving in complete silence at this point. I turned to him and in a sweet voice say "Do you want to drive?".... He smiles and shakes his head. We switch sides and I fight sleeping the whole way back.
All in all it was an amazing honeymoon. We made lasting memories and so much enjoyed each others company. I couldn't have asked for more! I made the mistake of when asked my name said "Stephanie Gee". The concierge says "No, no - you're Mrs Chaloner now". That's right Senor, I am.
Our 'last' supper was excellent - I ordered a new york steak with 3 different sides. The waiter looks at me and says "Ahh big plate". What are you trying to say Senor? - mind your bizness... I thought...haha. I asked for orange juice and what he brought me was a powdered kool aid type deal. Off of refined sugar for 6 months, I decided to have a couple of 'sips' of this tangy/sweet goodness.
Special Advisory: A Sugar Rush DOES exist. For all of the people that say sugar does not affect your body. Wrong.
I was on a high, chattering up a storm, I couldn't stop myself. I had great ideas and conversation with my new husband. I walked a little faster, little extra sway in my hips. Ahhh the amazing things that sugar can do.
Sarah & Brad
On my sugar high we retired to our room. Lying in bed reading and thinking (again, amazing what sugar can do:) )I suddenly hear what sounds to be someone crying. About 5mins later - I confirm that it, in fact, a girl is crying in the room next to us. I put down my trashy romance novel and listen. Not sure why - maybe I would knock on her door to see if she needed help. For the next hour, Mike and I had front row seats to the Sarah & Brad domestic dispute.
Sarah: Why do you think I had to get room service on my own? You weren't there for me!
Brad: Sarah, I love you but I'm tired of you acting like a fool when you're drunk!
Sarah: You've never made me feel like this before. Like nothing. I've never felt so upset. I'm lying here crying and you don't care!! (she was, we heard it)
Brad: F**K you Sarah. (Brad starts to get belligerent, then head's to the deck for another drink..)
This went on for approx an hour. I was concocting a plan of how to make it stop. It was a typical drunken couple argument. Dramatic, silly and the 2 kept saying the same things over and over... I finally decided I would call their room and pretend I was the front desk (Why? not sure - guess it was the sugar). I was practicing (in my head) my Spanish accent when it FINALLY stopped. Mike was confident they'd fight themselves to sleep, me... not so much.
The next morning was going home day. I was gitty as we hadn't been a married couple on PEI for more than 24hours. I was ready to come home and had a sugar hangover. We, both relaxed and rested, were ready for our own food. The food in Mexico was awesome - everything so flavorful and fresh but we did suffer from the traveler's diareese. We didn't hold back at any meal and paid for it in the mornings. We were apprehensive about our plane ride home. I decided to head to a mexican drugstore (in the airport - not THAT adventurous) to find some Immodium - just in case. I looked around everywhere to no avail. Finally asked the guy at the counter for it and in broken english he pulls out a 'no name' package with a mexican label and says "Here take 1". Mike and I looked at each other with the "Here goes nothing" look and down the hatch the tiny white pills went. Still not sure what they were but we didn't have any rushed trips to the bathroom on the plane.
We arrived in Moncton at 11:30pm, picked up our car and hit the open road. I, by this time, was slightly cranky. I had a case of the back seat driver and so was trying to tell Mike how to drive.
Screeeechhh! He pulls over to the side of the highway:
"Do you want to drive" he says in a stern voice
"Yes!" I say with confidence
We switched sides and away I went. Put the cruise control on and thought to myself Now THIS is how you do it.....
Karma's a bitch. 30mins later I was cross eyed and rubber necking. Damn! I thought. I should have let him drive. Note: We had been driving in complete silence at this point. I turned to him and in a sweet voice say "Do you want to drive?".... He smiles and shakes his head. We switch sides and I fight sleeping the whole way back.
All in all it was an amazing honeymoon. We made lasting memories and so much enjoyed each others company. I couldn't have asked for more! I made the mistake of when asked my name said "Stephanie Gee". The concierge says "No, no - you're Mrs Chaloner now". That's right Senor, I am.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
The Honeymooners
Senor!! Seeeennnnooorrr!!!!!
A man in the Mexico airport yells at Mike and I as we dart from his grips. The Time Share people. I've heard of you and we're not getting sucked in. Yet.
7hours of sleep in 2 days as newlyweds - we arrive at the Secrets Capri Rivera Cancun happy to finally be here. As we drive up it looks like a 5star paradise. Just what the Doctor ordered, I thought. Exactly what we need!
Our first few hours in paradise were spent exploring the resort, resting, eating and freshening up to finally pass out at 8pm. Our room was beautiful. Marble floors, shower to die for, separate tub, king sized bed, tv, dvd, internet. All the amenities of home and I assume that's why the staff say "Welcome Home" (throughout the 1st day of your stay).
Each morning we woke up at 6:00am, got ourselves ready for a workout which I would like to call Hot CrossFit as we were working out in 28degree temps. I know, there was a furnace stat. We, along with a couple other brave sorts, were usually the only ones in the gym at that time. This made it great for us so we could rig up the cybrex equipment to suit our needs. Makeshift racks and pull up bars - if anything you could give us an "A" for effort.
The food at the Secrets Capri was amazing. The sweetest salsa and creamiest guacamole this side of tulum, beef was incredible, fresh fresh fruit, freshly squeezed orange juice, juicy fish, assortment of cheeses. We did not go hungry. Thank Gosh for the early morning workouts - I'm sure I gained 5lbs as it is (hate to see if I did nothing all week). The resort has 4 'a la carte' restaurants - italian, japanese, steak, pub food. No reservations needed which was a bonus. Each of them we'd walk in and in 30mins we were walking back to our room - speedy service and always topped off with "It's a pleasure Mrs. Chaloner" (pronounced itsa pleashure).
We decided to indulge in their award winning spa on day 3. Well, I'm not sure if it has actually won any awards but it should. When we arrived the concierge gave us $200 in coupons for spa services so we thought we'd use them up. Massages, hydrotherapy, seaweed wraps, manicure and waxing - I started to feel guilty from all of the pampering. The spa was amazing - relaxation was key and the staff would constantly encourage you to 'have a seat in the relaxation chaise's' or seats or bench. It was soooo worth the $ and time. I would come back to go to the spa everyday. I'm over the guilt.
Upon our checkin Javier (a concierge assistant) explained to us that we could go and tour the Secrets Maroma (new secrets resort) and receive a $100 spa coupon and 3 days, 2 nights free to return to the Capri for our time. As a Grand Opening Special - per se. Mike and I, hearing 'spa' politely agreed to go and so we made our tour time on our spa day (the next day). Javier gave us this sad story that if we did not show up for the tour, he'd have to pay the taxi fare out of his paycheck so we made sure we were there. As soon as we arrived at Maroma we were whisked away to a private room where a woman explained at the end of the 'tour' we would receive our coupons. 10 mins into our visit - I knew something was fishy. This was not a tour - it was a sales meeting for a 'vacation club' membership! Our tour guide/sleasy mexican sales rep - ate lunch with us, walked us around the resort explaining how this could be our 'love nest', showed us the suites that we could stay in, fed us every line in the book and for the small, pocket change price of $129,900 to join the club. I was pissed by this point (3hours later) and Mike decided to play their game and give the man a sob story that we were going through expensive medical treatments (may have even saw his eyes well up - good one Mike!) and that we couldn't possibly afford an extra $2000.00 a month. The sales guys accepts that and calls over his manager. This is a heads up to other travelers in case you are roped into something like this, the price goes down drastically! The manager takes approx $30,000 off the price, adds 2 weeks all inclusive trips for us and vacation credits to entice us. Of course, our answer is NO again. Thinking we were in the clear another manager comes over and tries to sell us another package for $111.00 a month. Again NO. This manager FINALLY asks us - "Senor, what could we offer you that you'd accept?" Mike scratches out the $111.00/month and puts $48.00 total. He laughs and says "we couldn't possibly!" That's when they got rid of us. We were back at our hotel coupons in hand, pissed off and chuckling at the same time 20mins after that.
We decided to book some excursions as we had received gifts from our wedding guests through our honeymoon registry. We had looked around our hotel for our travel rep (couldn't find one) so we decided to go with the first available tour booker we saw. A friendly senorita we'll call her Brenda (actually I believe that's her name...) booked us 2 awesome excursions and sent us on our way. Our first included a trip to the Mayan ruins - COBA, rappelling, ziplining, hiking, canoeing, lunch and swimming in a cenote. All were out of my comfort zone. I made it 1/2 way to the top of the COBA ruin, panic hit and I had to go down on my bum to the bottom (did I mention this is the tallest ruin?!?). Ziplining was scary as we were over crocodile infested water. As we were getting hooked on to the line our tour guide "Cristina" asked us our names, age, where we worked...I was thinking she was getting our personal information in case of an accident. Maybe slightly dramatic but still! Swimming in the cenotes was "excellent" - it was a dark cave filled with bats and fish (in the water), cold fresh water and I floated happily on the inner tube. Not brave enough to actually swim in the water.... We rappelled into the Cenote and of course, fearless Mike, volunteered us to go first. Thanks Hubby. Your new wife is scared sh**less... A touch of rope burn later, I made it down. A cute Mexican dude was at the end of the rope saying "relax senorita, this is beautiful". Yes senor it is... Our final activity was canoeing. Note to self: IF I want to stay married DO NOT canoe with my hubby. We don't have rhythm, he gets pissed at me for my lack of 'effort', I get pissed at him for his lack of direction and so on... 11 hours later, we made it back to the hotel in 1 piece. We were pleased with the amount you get to do for the price. Gotta love organized tours!
Our second excursion was the "Royal Swim" with the Dolphins at Dolphin Discovery. This was more expensive but since we were lucky enough to get some thoughtful gifts on our registry - we decided to go for it! What an amazing experience it was - 1 hour swimming with a mother, daughter dolphin, snorkeling with sharks and stingrays, hugging manatees and feeding them lettuce. We were thrilled with the amount we could do with this tour. They also have a empire of taking pictures and selling them to you for an obscene prize. We bought a CD. We figured - this experience may not happen again.
We had 2 good days of suntanning. Thankfully my new hubby is on 'sun control' and would remind me when to flip, lather up, and get into the shade. I did well to not burn too much - except for the patch work art I have on my arms and back - last time I'll apply my own sunscreen. I read a whole book while on this vacation and onto my second. It's been YEARS since I've read and think I should do it more often. Very relaxing and time passes soo quickly. Maybe too quick.
To be continued..... Spa time, again.
A man in the Mexico airport yells at Mike and I as we dart from his grips. The Time Share people. I've heard of you and we're not getting sucked in. Yet.
7hours of sleep in 2 days as newlyweds - we arrive at the Secrets Capri Rivera Cancun happy to finally be here. As we drive up it looks like a 5star paradise. Just what the Doctor ordered, I thought. Exactly what we need!
Our first few hours in paradise were spent exploring the resort, resting, eating and freshening up to finally pass out at 8pm. Our room was beautiful. Marble floors, shower to die for, separate tub, king sized bed, tv, dvd, internet. All the amenities of home and I assume that's why the staff say "Welcome Home" (throughout the 1st day of your stay).
Each morning we woke up at 6:00am, got ourselves ready for a workout which I would like to call Hot CrossFit as we were working out in 28degree temps. I know, there was a furnace stat. We, along with a couple other brave sorts, were usually the only ones in the gym at that time. This made it great for us so we could rig up the cybrex equipment to suit our needs. Makeshift racks and pull up bars - if anything you could give us an "A" for effort.
The food at the Secrets Capri was amazing. The sweetest salsa and creamiest guacamole this side of tulum, beef was incredible, fresh fresh fruit, freshly squeezed orange juice, juicy fish, assortment of cheeses. We did not go hungry. Thank Gosh for the early morning workouts - I'm sure I gained 5lbs as it is (hate to see if I did nothing all week). The resort has 4 'a la carte' restaurants - italian, japanese, steak, pub food. No reservations needed which was a bonus. Each of them we'd walk in and in 30mins we were walking back to our room - speedy service and always topped off with "It's a pleasure Mrs. Chaloner" (pronounced itsa pleashure).
We decided to indulge in their award winning spa on day 3. Well, I'm not sure if it has actually won any awards but it should. When we arrived the concierge gave us $200 in coupons for spa services so we thought we'd use them up. Massages, hydrotherapy, seaweed wraps, manicure and waxing - I started to feel guilty from all of the pampering. The spa was amazing - relaxation was key and the staff would constantly encourage you to 'have a seat in the relaxation chaise's' or seats or bench. It was soooo worth the $ and time. I would come back to go to the spa everyday. I'm over the guilt.
Upon our checkin Javier (a concierge assistant) explained to us that we could go and tour the Secrets Maroma (new secrets resort) and receive a $100 spa coupon and 3 days, 2 nights free to return to the Capri for our time. As a Grand Opening Special - per se. Mike and I, hearing 'spa' politely agreed to go and so we made our tour time on our spa day (the next day). Javier gave us this sad story that if we did not show up for the tour, he'd have to pay the taxi fare out of his paycheck so we made sure we were there. As soon as we arrived at Maroma we were whisked away to a private room where a woman explained at the end of the 'tour' we would receive our coupons. 10 mins into our visit - I knew something was fishy. This was not a tour - it was a sales meeting for a 'vacation club' membership! Our tour guide/sleasy mexican sales rep - ate lunch with us, walked us around the resort explaining how this could be our 'love nest', showed us the suites that we could stay in, fed us every line in the book and for the small, pocket change price of $129,900 to join the club. I was pissed by this point (3hours later) and Mike decided to play their game and give the man a sob story that we were going through expensive medical treatments (may have even saw his eyes well up - good one Mike!) and that we couldn't possibly afford an extra $2000.00 a month. The sales guys accepts that and calls over his manager. This is a heads up to other travelers in case you are roped into something like this, the price goes down drastically! The manager takes approx $30,000 off the price, adds 2 weeks all inclusive trips for us and vacation credits to entice us. Of course, our answer is NO again. Thinking we were in the clear another manager comes over and tries to sell us another package for $111.00 a month. Again NO. This manager FINALLY asks us - "Senor, what could we offer you that you'd accept?" Mike scratches out the $111.00/month and puts $48.00 total. He laughs and says "we couldn't possibly!" That's when they got rid of us. We were back at our hotel coupons in hand, pissed off and chuckling at the same time 20mins after that.
We decided to book some excursions as we had received gifts from our wedding guests through our honeymoon registry. We had looked around our hotel for our travel rep (couldn't find one) so we decided to go with the first available tour booker we saw. A friendly senorita we'll call her Brenda (actually I believe that's her name...) booked us 2 awesome excursions and sent us on our way. Our first included a trip to the Mayan ruins - COBA, rappelling, ziplining, hiking, canoeing, lunch and swimming in a cenote. All were out of my comfort zone. I made it 1/2 way to the top of the COBA ruin, panic hit and I had to go down on my bum to the bottom (did I mention this is the tallest ruin?!?). Ziplining was scary as we were over crocodile infested water. As we were getting hooked on to the line our tour guide "Cristina" asked us our names, age, where we worked...I was thinking she was getting our personal information in case of an accident. Maybe slightly dramatic but still! Swimming in the cenotes was "excellent" - it was a dark cave filled with bats and fish (in the water), cold fresh water and I floated happily on the inner tube. Not brave enough to actually swim in the water.... We rappelled into the Cenote and of course, fearless Mike, volunteered us to go first. Thanks Hubby. Your new wife is scared sh**less... A touch of rope burn later, I made it down. A cute Mexican dude was at the end of the rope saying "relax senorita, this is beautiful". Yes senor it is... Our final activity was canoeing. Note to self: IF I want to stay married DO NOT canoe with my hubby. We don't have rhythm, he gets pissed at me for my lack of 'effort', I get pissed at him for his lack of direction and so on... 11 hours later, we made it back to the hotel in 1 piece. We were pleased with the amount you get to do for the price. Gotta love organized tours!
Our second excursion was the "Royal Swim" with the Dolphins at Dolphin Discovery. This was more expensive but since we were lucky enough to get some thoughtful gifts on our registry - we decided to go for it! What an amazing experience it was - 1 hour swimming with a mother, daughter dolphin, snorkeling with sharks and stingrays, hugging manatees and feeding them lettuce. We were thrilled with the amount we could do with this tour. They also have a empire of taking pictures and selling them to you for an obscene prize. We bought a CD. We figured - this experience may not happen again.
We had 2 good days of suntanning. Thankfully my new hubby is on 'sun control' and would remind me when to flip, lather up, and get into the shade. I did well to not burn too much - except for the patch work art I have on my arms and back - last time I'll apply my own sunscreen. I read a whole book while on this vacation and onto my second. It's been YEARS since I've read and think I should do it more often. Very relaxing and time passes soo quickly. Maybe too quick.
To be continued..... Spa time, again.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)