Business Trip to India

Zoe came for a visit to Cincinnati in July and helped me to get my blog working again from my phone. I haven’t been able to load my photos from my new phone due to a set up issue. Why is everything these days so difficult? The electronics, which everyone knows is my nemesis, is no joke for my generation. Its a necessary evil yet not intuitive. Just trying to get an answer on anything comes with electronic voices, codes and pins, passwords- all things that hurt my head.

Anyways, its fixed. I have no more excuses for not using this blog which used to save my sanity and which I also pay annually for. A reminder of what life should be about for me which is seeing, witnessing and sharing.

Let’s face it, these days, doom scrolling and trying to understand the world and its evils is addicting. I’ve missed so much blogging. Some of my favorite moments in Death Valley that I know without visuals I will soon forget. But India, I have not been to India in about 20 years….so I for sure am going to take some time to do my best to remember. And if you are reading and along for the ride, yay! Hope you can get through my rusty, begin again, blogging.

When I started back full time at my past job, I was told we would need to go to India. Nobody from the company had been since Covid and we needed to know/see/better understand what was going on with the factories we were doing business with. I was excited to go! I found a cheap flight, then a hotel highly recommended and arranged my itinerary to include one day off to explore a new city. I felt confident in my abilities to travel alone and was packed and ready to go. As the pop up email came to check into my flights the night before, I realized I didn’t have the proper visa to enter India. I mean, how could I have forgotten to get my visa???? But I did. What a nightmare!

I contacted my boss to alert her to my error. George helped by jumping onto the airlines trying to reschedule my flights, as I attempted to find a 24 hour visa service that wasn’t a hoax! That included reading reviews, trying to figure out if I should proceed with divulging personal information or get hacked etc, After several hours of panic, I took a deep breath and booked a flight one week later allowing myself time to sleep and figure this all out.

Not off to a great start. After spending the next few days rearranging all factory visits, domestic flights, hotels (the old one now full – so scrambling to find another) and obtaining a legal visa – the tariffs hit sending any importer off in a frenzy! We now had to cancel all imports from China as they were no longer affordable and scramble to resource or figure out what we needed to keep to stay afloat as a company to survive.

Now my trip to India was much more important as I would have to find new sources for Chinese products until we know if the 150% tariff would subside. You can’t even imagine the stress of trying to be sure we could resource the production elsewhere. Many people not in the import business do not understand tariffs and how they certainly affect the end consumer and profits.

As I flew off, always in a window seat, I captured the curve of the Earth as the sun set.

I landed at my transfer point in Amsterdam, only to have my phone blow up with messages that my credit card was not accepted by the hotel or airport pick up taxi service. I am again in full blown panic mode, phoning my HR guy asking WTF- only to be told everything is fine. Me then phoning a hotel in India to make arrangements again to ensure a place to stay when I landed (since everyone was scrambling business wise to India for the tariff issues) and then me texting the taxi services to ask if they were coming or not. I also had texts from my coworker in India, who said she went to the hotel to pick me up only to find out I was not there. I totally miscalculated the time travel differences and was off an entire day.

This is not looking good. Am I too old for this? Have I lost my abilities? My daughters both told me I handled it well and all things considered they would’ve just melted down in tears. Somehow this did make me feel better.

I boarded the next flight knowing I had a hotel, although much further away than desired. I would be arriving at 2 am and picked up for my business meeting at 6 am. Not an ideal start to an already stressful trip.

I’m always in awe of the cloud formations from above. They will always fascinate and inspire me with their change and fluid movements as they cluster and reshape. A great reminder.

Seeing the sliver of the sunset as I approached landing.

Once I landed, I remembered the one thing I forgot about India, was the smells. The scent of India. It is indescribable yet so familiar upon landing. Spicy almost. The air is so thick and humid and filled with a unique aroma. Arriving to the hotel, I just wanted to shower, unpack and sleep for the maximum time that I could.

The next morning while waiting for my pick up, I watched the workers rearrange the centerpiece floral arrangement. This smelled amazing!

This trip to India was filled with a lot of domestic flights, as I wanted to see the actual factories, not just meet in the offices. It makes a huge difference to see how each manufactures your product and to see the cleanliness of the facilities. It never ceases to amaze me the details it takes to weave a towel. The production process is beyond my understanding even after all these years working in the industry.

I snapped photos from the car to capture street views. Honestly not much has changed since I was last here.

Inside the factory showing the spinning of the cotton.

Outside a sugar cane crusher selling the sugar juice to the locals.

Sometimes the scenes, like this one, would remind me of Thailand.

There are no sidewalks and in many parts, mostly still dirt roads. The colors in contrast are beautiful.

Another factory showing the screen printing process of beach towels- coming to Cosco soon via Disney brand. The workers literally scoop the paint out of the bucket and pour the color on as needed while the machines swipes the screen and moves the fabrication.

Watching the yardage being rolled outdoors. It truly is a wonder how things get to market.

After meeting with one of our key resources, we were told they no longer wish to do our business as it is too detailed and they are busy just keeping up production for larger retailers such as Walmart. Knowing the giants of the world are priority to all, that meant I had to find another place to make our goods for holiday selling. As if resourcing China was not enough, now I have more to figure out while travelling and jet lagged.

I was on the phone nightly with my bosses in the US verifying direction as I endured the heat and negotiated. I strongly urge you to support your local boutiques and craftsman, although equally understand the difficulties in paying the added expenses that go along with the smaller businesses. Its no wonder so many come and go. It’s tough to compete. My company is now considered a smaller business although it used to be a huge conduit for the larger retailers who are now skipping the middle man and going direct to try to salvage their 5%.

We sell on Amazon, but can be found also on a link to buy direct. It will be interesting to see who survives these next couple of years under the current situation. Optimistic we will be one of them! (SKL HOME)

One of the more colorful temples I passed.

I met one of my vendors at this hotel and again walked in to see an artistic centerpiece. This was the hotel I originally arranged to stay at. It was like paradise in the middle of struggle on the hot streets. You walked in and felt like you transported to a different world.

Nidhi and I had dinner here with a bottle of wine and a lot of laughs. I admire this woman who I only met twice previously. She started her own import business and her peaceful demeanor blended with the ability to get her way was powerful to watch in action.

Our taxi ride back we snapped this selfie to remember.

Every other day it seemed I was flying to a different part of the country. The dust was coming in and creating quite a smog from the harvest season. I definitely suffered some allergies while here.

I honestly cannot remember all the cities I went to. Some we landed at the airport only to be driven another two hours by car to the location needed. Our first visit to the New Dehli domestic airport, we were met by high security. They were not going to let my coworker in with me since she did not have her actual ID on her, but instead had only an electronic version. I noticed this also with my Chinese student I met up with in NYC, she felt showing the electronic ID would suffice (as it must be ok in their countries) but she was unable to get into a bar because the bouncer just considered it a photo of an ID and not an ID.

Long story short, I went into the New Dehli airport myself after Aabha gave me my domestic flight barcode and I thought I was on my own. But the guards must have felt sorry for me and she joined me soon after! The lines to get through security once inside separate men and women. The women have to go inside a covered curtain area to be patted down privately by another woman. I would’ve rather have gone through the men’s line. They consider this separation respectful but I found it odd.

They also had security pat downs every night before I entered into my hotel. After a few times, I felt it was just for show. They stopped every car driving up, you had to pop the hood of the car and they also looked under. I honestly didn’t feel any more secure, but thought it was nice they were trying to protect their visitors.

I noticed the dress and headwear of the community changed per region.

This factory was at the Himalayan foothills which you can see in the background.

We found out there was a terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed many citizens. I believe even a few US tourists were killed during the mass shooting there. There was a lot of talk about Pakistan and India going to war. And India’s retaliation for this. If I wasn’t in India, I probably would never had heard of this. It occurred to me that I really do not have a reliable news source and remembered how during Covid, my best truthful information on how countries were handling the crisis came from my Cambly students from around the world.

That job by far was my favorite. I saw the world united more than separated, by getting to know all the students from different countries and seeing our similarities in life’s struggles. I will forever be thankful for that platform.

This factory had blooming trees and even a fake tropical bird call that they put over load speakers to keep the pigeons away. A tip I gave to another factory later in the week that said they were struggling with birds.

A perfect selfie with Preetika who I have known for years and Aabha who was my partner in crime in India. She holds up our Indian office and helps to keep business moving. I love how all our printed tops clash and coordinate at the same time.

A daily view of cattle roaming the streets. I learned this trip there is a difference between water buffalo and cows. Cows are respected, the other not.

People are always on the streets. Again no sidewalks.

Another temple captured. Believe all are different religions.

Another factory, this time rug making. Thought some people reading may never see the inside of an Indian factory and this may be insightful. I’ve always found it interesting how products are made.

While in Panipat, I was welcomed by roses as I visited my dear friends Reeki and Pallavi. They are the family that visited me in Phuket when I lived there. I didn’t realize it had been so long ago since I had seen their daughter who is now so grown! It was awesome talking with her.

They invited us to their personal home for lunch and it was so welcoming! We snapped this photo from the staircase while eating and then a group shot outside afterwards. The little boy when he saw me touched the top of my shoes and then made a gesture up to his face. I asked Aahba what that was and she said it was a sign of respect that the little ones do with elders.

Lunch was amazing and such a great group to be sitting with! I felt overwhelmed with love and gratitude.

Always having to wear closed toed shoes for the factory visits, I was sweating outdoors.

Reeki and his family drove 5 hours after this luncheon to Jaipur to meet me for my Sunday Funday. I told Aahba that I did not need her to come and I felt comfortable travelling alone, but then Reeki insisted on coming and given the political turmoil I am so glad they did! (will blog about separately)

Capturing this out my car window on the way home wondering if I would get to ride in one.

And these two bad ass women on the scooter behind me completely protected.

Some cool art sculptures and they had a Tim Hortons coffee which was nice in my early mornings.

Deplaning onto the tarmac. Then walk to the entry.

One city we visited had so much art, even the trees were painted.

Tiffani got on Life360 with my daughters and I and she kept saying “where the heck are you flying to now?” She said the app was constantly pinging her that I was at the airport again. George snapped the photo below after I landed to show me where I was.

Murals lined a lot of the streets in this area. I felt a totally different vibe here.

The factory though was in the middle of a cornfield. Felt like I was back in the midwest.

I was able to see the entire cotton processing here from raw to finished goods. This factory was so clean and advanced.

This is how they comb out the cotton from the bales.

Then spin it after much combing and washing.

You just never know what you will see on the streets. It’s a mix of modern and not so modern 🙂

Was told this city is where one of the richest men in India live so possibly they fund the art movement?

Another polka dot base tree. This type of tree is sacred and historical.

Took this photo in hopes of remembering where I was.

This floor cleaner literally stopped right in front of me. I felt he knew how much I hated technology. He didn’t move.

Believe this was the city where Ghandi was from.

This is a wooden carriage that people rent for their weddings.

Open toed sandals while using a saw. I am amazed that they are on the floors working and when I questioned it, was told they prefer it this way. Hmmmm.

Fascinates me how some things do not progress.

I absolutely loved capturing this teenage angst starring me down, like why are you taking a photo of me. Little did she know I was loving on her outfit.

On my way home from India, I went into the only Indian wardrobe boutique at the airport to see if I could find something that made me look as fashionable as all the women I saw on the streets. I purchased one pant suit, only to get it home and feel like it made me look even bigger than what I am. Isn’t it interesting how we can see someone else in something, but yet not see ourselves in the same light?

One night after a long Indian day of travelling, I skipped dinner and went to bar to ask for a glass of wine to take to my room. I had to do emails and just needed something to calm my nerves from the day. The bartender asked me to repeat my request, which I did. I wasn’t sure why the confusion. She said, I know we can sell a bottle to go”- so I said, why not, yes, give me a bottle 🙂

This journey to India taught me a lot about myself and my limitations. I am no longer able to “people” well for days on end. I require a lot of sleep and when I don’t get it, my brain doesn’t quite function on all cylinders. After seeing so much stimulus it becomes a bit overwhelming to the senses. India is full of sense filling experiences! From what you see in factories or on the streets, hear in traffic or machinery noises, smell from various foods, flowers, pollution and feel with jet lag, bumpy dirt roads, stop and go madness of playing chicken with trucks on the streets. The reactions of my body were interesting to field while masking a smile. Now I can look back and feel very blessed from it all. To be able to witness again this amazing culture!

NYC Views

Second week at SKL, I set off to New York for market week. Much has changed during my absence from the industry over the past 5 years. The building where most Home Textiles used to showcase has been turned into condos. All vendors are spread throughout the midtown area, many of whom no longer have permanent locations, and some setting their appointments in their hotels or local coffee shops.

Covid changed a lot of things. Maybe it helped some companies that survived the tumultuous retail times to clearly see how spending 10K a month on a location in a city that you went to only twice a year was meaningless. Zoom meeting have replaced instore meetings and much has changed as the industry continues to evolve and attempt to survive with the limited customers still succeeding.

At the Cinci airport before I left I noticed this water service being done for an incoming flight. I’d never seen such a thing before and texted Sedona who studied aviation to ask what it was about. She said its usually honoring a last flight for a retiring pilot etc. Interesting. Its called a water cannon salute.

Always grabbing the right side window seat so I can awe of the views coming into NYC.

The city looks so small in the background and then once you are in it, you realize how massive it is. I always like seeing the World Trade /Wall Street area, then the flat village/SOHO in between and then the height again in Midtown.

A perfect view as we landed in the renovated LaGuardia Airport.

Cool architecture on the corner of my old stomping grounds of 40th.

Bryant Park has truly done an excellent job at upgrading.

Sculpture everywhere. I didn’t get out of Midtown the entire stay there. Was only in the city for two days as our schedule was packed. But even so, still NYC was a wonder to see.

Admiring the angles. NYC is unfortunately filled with so much scaffolding on the side walks.

Always remembering to look up. This was after three margaritas 🙂

The Empire State Building a glow in purple.

Fantastic visit with Kassie and Solaire. We found the perfect outdoor spot near Grand Central where we camped out and snacked on tacos and caught up.

I snapped this photo of Koreatown for Namgi.

Appreciate how the city closed down some areas and made beautiful walking and resting areas.

The pedestrian flow zone was new to me. Enjoyed the widened area coming from Penn Station. George pointed out the ‘No Standing” sign opposite which could be very confusing. Like keep it moving people.

Heading out of the city I snapped a photo of this sculpture. There were many like it lining 5th Ave. Super cool. Would’ve loved to have seen more of the series.

Inside LGA they had a musical water fountain. Felt like I was in Vegas, I wanted to clap when it ended 🙂 Renovations for LGA started in 2016- now 2024 we can enjoy the outcome.

A perfect Manhattan view with Central Park showing off its green space.

As the sun was setting we got beneath the clouds and I was able to see my neighborhood as we circled to land.

Thought of Angela as I took this sunset photo before rejoining the busy world again. She and I are working on a sunset nature book together. Hoping to have in time for the holidays.

Day 4 Frisco and Dillion Lake-Colorado

I struggled with the rental car’s map/Bluetooth system. Whenever I plugged in my phone to charge it, Bluetooth wanted to convert. Electronics I swear. Once my phone was finally fully charged, I was able to unplug and look at my map while Kassie was using hers for navigating.

When I zoomed around Frisco, I spotted a lighthouse that I thought could be interesting to check out. Kassie smartly asked, “what do they need a lighthouse out here for?”

When we arrived at the marina, it was a mini lighthouse, like a prop. She was right. It was funny that this icon is what got us to Frisco. Reminded me of Tiffani and the giant tree in Michigan. (which btw wasn’t so giant)

The reservoir on the map looked like an oasis and we found a short trail to hike before finalizing the last leg of our drive.

But first we grabbed some coffee in Frisco to wake up a bit. Admittedly we were both dragging.

We picked another outdoor spot and attempted to get our energies back in order. Kassie double fisted with a coffee and an immune booster. We are rebels right?

She created this split screen shot on snap chat. Showing our different views at the small shop’s table.

We mapped our way to the trail head. Only one other car in site.

Trail was mostly along a paved bike path. We later decided, should we ever come back, that would be the way to go. Rent an E bike and just take our time going around the lake.

The lake offered serenity. A distant fisherman. Quiet waters. Only one soul in sight.

Kassie is a Pieces so the water speaks to her.

We went our separate ways for a bit and just sat quietly. Life doesn’t get easier, it just evolves into a different stage to be challenged by. At our age, the quiet and peace of mind is sometimes tough to find. My menopausal induced anxiety and brain chatter is tough to stop. Our constant on -the -move schedules to make ends meet, often times overcomes us. But a moment like this should always be taken. In silence. I love that Kassie appreciated that.

I walked along the rocky beach to take in as many views as I could.

Captured Kassie in her meditative state.

Taking it all it before we go back to the real world.

At the very start of the trail we took a selfie. You can see the head behind Kassie of the older gentleman we came across that was holding a trout when we approached and asked us to snap a photo.

What is it with men and their fish photos? That was one of the things on Bumble when dating that was an automatic swipe left 🙂 Like you conquered a fish and you think that will impress me? But I imagine he was taking the photo back to show his wife who was patiently waiting for him at the bench on top of the slope. Maybe it does impress some women.

Walking out I snapped one last image with the small bush in the forefront.

And a better selfie before we hit the road.

Kassie drove around the lake and discovered an outdoor amphitheater which had a band playing. A lot of food trucks outside too and free parking. But we both felt we needed to get moving toward Denver.

We continued toward the sprawling city leaving the mountains behind.

We crashed at her friend Leanne’s house and enjoyed Indian take-out for dinner while sitting in the most perfect bug free outdoor environment. (probably my last time for awhile) My flight was leaving early in the am and Kassie graciously offered to drive me, but Leanne told us about a train that was convenient and would save Kassie a lot of driving should she hit morning rush hour on the way back. I’m no premadonna and use public transportation as much as I can while traveling, so this seemed like a win win.

Snapped this on the way to the train station at 6 am, still on my passenger look out duty. Made me wish I had more time to explore the Denver area.

Leanne’s advise was perfect. This was a fabulous way to get to the airport. Was only $10 and took 1/2 hour without any concern for traffic jams. All was smooth upon arrival. Back to Ohio I go. Was an amazing weekend with so much to take in, contemplate and cherish.

Day 4 Glenwood Springs-Colorado

On Monday, Kassie and I packed up and hit the road back to Denver. I’m sure Bobby and Lisa would be thankful to give their livers a rest. We decided we would take our time, have an open agenda, stop when and where we wanted, as long as night time driving was avoided.

Again my passenger duty, I took many photos from my window view.

Our first stop was Doc Holiday’s gravesite. At Bobby and Lisa’s recommendation I have since watched the Wyatt Earp Netflix documentary and now love even more that we stopped here. I visited Tombstone, Arizona with Zoe on her move to California but at that time I did not truly appreciate all the US history that occurred there.

A little history about how they moved the cemetery up the mountain to avoid issues with flooding and potential landslides. I imagine that would be a hot mess nobody would want to deal with.

Of course the trail was up a steep hill, which, when you stopped, offered gorgeous views. Guess the climb is worth it.

The landscape colors reminded me of desert terrain. Love the various green tones vs the warm red dirt trail.

We came across this wishing tree which someone told us was started by a cancer patient in the community. I Googled it – “Annie’s Wishing Tree started by Annie Zancanella when she was receiving cancer treatments.” We all need hope and support. Kassie moved a pinecone over staying eco. The baby doll is sort of creepy in the mix.

Once you reached the plateau there were several very old tombstones.

And of course a Potter’s field for immigrants and those in poverty. As we walked I found it odd that just because you have money you are marked as if worth more in history than others. I most likely would’ve ended up here. And I’m okay with that. Once I leave this Earth, I am meant to be free.

Something was eerily intriguing about this field. As if the branches were reaching out from below. Or they were doing an odd dance together in the grass. Feels painful somehow and cohesive.

The view beyond was stunning. Kassie found a trail outside of the cemetery area and we wandered a bit not knowing if it was legit or private property. We soon met a local hiking with his dogs and Kassie continued up the mountain to see if there was a better view. I never did get her photos to know.

Beautiful day. We saw an amusement park on top of one mountain that you reached via gondola. I wondered what riding a roller coaster up there would look like.

It was quiet up here. Not many hikers or tourists.

Hiking back down, Kassie was getting hangry and we headed into town to grab some lunch at the brewery.

Always love a local brewery. We opted for their house-made rootbeer and split an amazing salad and turkey rueben. No complaints on the food here!

We sat outdoors and of course, it started raining. We were able to scoot the table and Kassie only partially got wet.

Sitting at lunch I noticed a walkway and we decided to check it out. Just as we were, an Amtrack train pulled in heading to Chicago. What a fun way to check out towns across America. Unfortunately nothing as convenient as the trains in other countries.

Glenwood Springs is an adorable small town filled with restaurants and bars. I’d definitely come back to spend a full day.

This city has one of the largest natural springs in the world. People come to float in the section of the pool that is darkest. Lisa also told us about other smaller hot spring options also in the area.

Captured this view through the gate along the walkway.

There were several little shacks along the sidewalks with a table and bench set up inside. Sweet little lunch spot and several were filled with people enjoying.

Under the road they made use of the shade and created another outdoor seating area.

Heading out of town we followed this Airstream which was a perfect car for my windshield photos.

You are simply surrounded by the mountains.

Was glad to be seeing this section in the daylight.

We were mapping our way to Frisco for the next stop.

Kassie did an excellent job in our Blue Malibu.

Kayaking or rafting for sure would be fun in Colorado.

Love this capture with the colors in the hills and fluffy white clouds above.

What causes the differences in color? From sandy taupe to….

or a combo of both. Someone enlighten me. Virlane?

All views gorgeous against the blue skies and certainly can’t imagine the colors once the seasons change.

Think about this one for a minute. Love.

Day 3 Basalt and Aspen- Colorado

We wanted to go on a hike today, but the weather was being temperamental. It rained during our morning coffee on the patio and the clouds kept shifting, teasing us of a potentially brighter day. It was worth the risk. We ventured out.

Front stoop photo of the trees. A good way to start my day.

On our drive to the trail, we decided to stop again in Basalt to check out the Sunday street market. It was good to get out and walk around to see what was for sale.

It kept raining on and off. I was tempted to buy a bleached flannel but couldn’t find my size. Wasn’t meant to be.

Noticed this tree carving as we were heading out. Another nod to the fly fisherman.

The trail selected was named Smuggler’s Trail. It was only a 3 mile round trip. But of course, everything in Colorado is uphill or with an incline.

I was out of breath on the first .25 mile. I stopped often and told the others to leave me behind because I didn’t want to slow them down, but also didn’t want to waste my hike trying to keep up either. Altitude adjustment is a real thing. I felt my sinus hurting, gut was moving, etc. Kassie said she nicknamed it Colorado Combustion. She’s been out here skiing more than me.

There was a mining site you could tour if you reserved in advance. We saw a few old mining communities on our drive in as well.

The rain cleared out and I decided not to wear a jacket. It was starting to get hot.

I noticed the rust colored powder on the rocks. A sort of fungus I imagine or moss.

The views as we climbed were incredible. We planned on taking the gondola ride up to the top of the slope to have lunch but I wondered if the view could get any better.

We passed a few residences along the way and Kassie Zillow-ed to see if we could all move in together or rent for a month. You can see our altitude by looking at how small the houses now looked below.

I took a break on a rock and sent this selfie to Debbie. Telling her I was left in the dust by the others.

A storm looked to be moving in. I swear this Colorado weather is so unpredictable.

Stopped to chat with this little chipmunk who seemed to trust me fully.

Check out the crocked tree by the corner of the sign. So cool!

Made it to the viewpoint where Bobby, Lisa and Kassie were waiting.

Walking back down it started to rain. We stopped under a tree for a little bit but then trudged on. It was chilly.

Once back into town, we stopped at KemoSabe again for Kassie to purchase a few gifts. I stood to the side and learned about stingray, elephant, rhino and snakeskin boots. Guess there’s a huge regulation (and should be) to harvest those type of exotic skins.

Bobby pointed out that this bear was made of nails. Pretty cool fur interpretation.

We decided to skip the ride up and headed to the close-by W hotel bar instead.

Was a gorgeous view. Due to the weather, nobody was there.

Captured this awesome view and friend in one shot 🙂

I was loving the orange punch of the flowers coordinating with the cushions.

We decided to only have one drink and then head over to the historic Jerome Hotel.

Just taking in the walk after my very strong tequila drink.

Bobby admitted to trying to actually use this to mail something.

Bobby and Kassie paid tribute to Mother Mary who has answered several of their calls.

Hotel Jerome is the oldest hotel in Aspen dating back to 1889 during the silver mining days. We looked up how much it was for a basic room there and it was a mere $900.00 minimum a night.

The hotel was posh. Perfectly, historically balanced with style.

The dining area impressive. Like something from a magazine.

Kassie of course chatted with the concierge and found out the whole story regarding this painting which I snapped a photo of coming back from a sneakpeak at the dining hall.

In 1936, a family that was staying in that hotel room had a ten-year-old son, and this little boy drowned in the pool. The little boy’s ghost has been known as “water boy,” and various guests have encountered him. He would appear to guests wet and shivering. They also say he leaves wet footprints.

Kassie showing off her KemoSabe bag and just being Kassie.

We were getting into our car ready to leave and Wendy pulled up right next to ours and talked us into going to the Gucci store with her. Apparently she is one of their biggest customers. They immediately offered us champagne and we of course said yes please.

We were sore from our hike and Kassie initiated a stretch in the middle of the Gucci floor. Good thing the town was slow so Bobby and Lisa’s reputations are still intact.

We decided we needed food and ended up at the Tipsy Trout back in Basalt to end our evening. Four cocktails and an appetizer at the Hotel Jerome (although $190.00) was not enough to hold us over. We initially intended to go home, shower, refresh, then go back out, but admittedly I said I more than likely would not make it back out if I did.

Great restaurant with great friends. A perfect ending to our stay.

We convinced Bobby to open this elite tequila for one last drink when we got back to their place. I turned in around 9:30 pm that night, which at the time felt like midnight. Bobby and Kassie stayed up (each of them benefiting from coffee after Jerome Hotel) and drunk texted and dialed many childhood friends.

Somehow after our beautiful weekend together, this feels like the appropriate ending quote.

I found this later and saved. How many have you been to? Me—-only 6. Goals.

Day 2 Basalt and Aspen- Colorado

In Colorado, you sleep with your windows open allowing the cool night air to naturally reduce the temps in the house. Was wonderful waking up to the chill as if camping. It was also beyond fabulous to not have to deal with bugs. I truly would love nature so much more if I wasn’t constantly getting bit.

Bobby and Lisa have a perfect outdoor seating area, where we would sit in the mornings sipping on coffee, waiting for each other to get up and around. I was curious what the day would bring.

Loved the signage they had in the hallway.

The first morning we saw the wild turkeys walking up the street as if they owned the place.

I couldn’t get over the views out their windows. This photo captured the Aspen trees in the background. Lisa taught me that the Aspen trees are all part of a singular cell/seed.

Fun Facts for the National Forest Foundation: One aspen tree is actually only a small part of a larger organism. A stand or group of aspen trees is considered a singular organism with the main life force underground in the extensive root system. Before a single aspen trunk appears above the surface, the root system may lie dormant for many years until the conditions are just right, including sufficient sunlight. In a single stand, each tree is a genetic replicate of the other, hence the name a “clone” of aspens used to describe a stand.

Older than the massive Sequoias or the biblical Bristlecone Pines, the oldest known aspen clone has lived more than 80,000 years on Utah’s Fishlake National Forest. Not only is the clone the oldest living organism, weighing in at an estimated 6,600 tons, it is also the heaviest.

My photo as were were walking past the Aspens.

We decided to walk to Basalt for breakfast. I was taking in the landscaping and variety of architecture along the way.

There was a very cool pathway to get from their neighborhood down to the Main Street in town.

Lavender lined the street. I had to stop and smell.

Kassie posed by the tin man on the steps of what looked to be a vacant house. Colorado living can be seasonal. Lisa reported it being virtually vacant in their neighborhood during certain months.

Love the creativity in the diversity of housing and landscaping.

It was sprinkling a bit and this perfect leaf holding onto the raindrops caught my eye among the colorful stones.

Basalt is known for its fishing. We made it down to the river and snapped our daily selfie.

The town had a movie set vibe to me. Didn’t feel quite authentic, but trying to look old. I am sure the history speaks for itself, it was just a feeling I got walking around.

The colorful newsstands enticing tourists toward the events of the month.

Sculpture caught my eye. They had an outdoor stage that is used for small music venues. Bobby said he sat next to Goldie Hawn at the last one he attended.

The river was like something out of a movie.

I told Lisa if I were living there, I would wander down, grab a coffee and just sit here for hours. Listening to the sound of the river was so relaxing.

Lisa and Bobby with their home in the background up the hill.

We decided to head to Aspen to check out KemoSabe, the western store they now owned. I was admiring their GPS tablet in their car which is more the size I need. My phone just doesn’t do the trick even with my bifocal contacts.

We were swinging by to pick up Wendy, Bobby’s sister, along the way. I captured this view out the window. The yellow flowers are everywhere along the roads and such an addition to the Colorado landscape.

I borrowed a cowboy hat from Bobby and Lisa’s house. Wendy and I took this selfie to say hello to Tiffani ( my younger sister). Tiffani is Wendy’s age and they grew up together, Bobby and I same. Have known each other since 3rd grade.

Wendy detoured to show us something on the way down from the mountain she lived on.

It was a field of elk. She taught us all sorts of fun facts about these animals, passionately speaking about which buck would win favor and which were shedding their antlers and could not be touched. A animal code as they fed freely on the field.

I’ve never been this close to a wild animal this big. He was majestic.

Still admiring our surroundings from the back seat of the car we made our way to Aspen.

The town seemed quiet with just a few people out.

But as we arrived to KemoSabe there was a line waiting at the door. We went in the alleyway entrance.

Kassie and I separated ourselves while Bobby, Lisa and Wendy greeted their employees and patrons. We shopped around, seeing all we couldn’t afford.

Their signage and decor was filled with humor and we loved exploring the walls and jewelry cases. We discovered a framed childhood photo of Bobby and Wendy placed on the walls along with subtle references to the Cleveland Browns and Ohio.

The Pussy Cat greets you as you enter the upstairs bar level. This store has such character and pizazz. Its a shopping experience with amazing service and customization.

The view downstairs from the upper level. We camped out at the bar for literally 5 ish hours sipping espresso martinis, tequila and even trying the “Wendy drink”. I found myself just people watching.

Our motley crew. Yes, I am double fisting, I think it was almost noon.

Just as I was about to escape and walk around town a bit, Lisa and Kassie called me up to the rooftop. We sat admiring the view and weather. No building in Aspen is allowed to be built taller than 4 stories. Love that.

A view of the slopes. I imagine this place is totally different in the winter.

Saw this hanging on the walls and it reminded me of Wendy, Bobby and Lisa and what they have created here. The three of them have such unique personalities and gifts/strengths. I truly admire how they’ve united all of their skills and created such a successful family business.

After several drinks and way too much peopling for me, we were hungry. Lisa scored a reservation at a very small local place and we all rushed in to shared plates with 50% of what we ordered having truffles.

Kassie looking like a local with our beloved Bobby.

The server noticed our reunion and offered to take a group shot. Cheers!

Walking back to the car, I was admiring the art.

Aspen had several galleries that I never entered.

Flowers were planted and blooming everywhere.

Driving Wendy home the sun was starting to set on our day. My energy level was fading as well.

I stood on her back porch and enjoyed the silence and the views.

The clouds offered one last peak at the perfect blue skies above reminding us that things are not always as they appear, but are masked but the ever evolving landscape.

Indianapolis, Indiana-UB40 Concert with Baby B

As close as Cincinnati is to Indianapolis, I have never explored that city. I purchased UB40 concert tickets and was so happy when Sedona agreed to go with me. I’ve been wanting to spend a one on one weekend away with her. And not just to cross off a square on my 2024 Bingo Card (which is not going well btw)

On our way there, the storms loomed ahead. I swear the weather keeps getting more dramatic and driving in it is not fun the older I get. Rain literally downpours blinding me like I’ve never experienced before.

We got through to the other side and thankfully it stopped raining as we arrived. We were able to walk the neighborhood and check out some local joints near Butler University where we were staying at an above garage Airbnb.

My neighbor Bob always reminds me that nature loves the rain. I enjoy the rain- the sound, the feel, but just not driving in it.

Sedona and I met the Airbnb owner who popped in to check on the bedding/laundry. She recommended a local brewery, so after settling in, we adventured out.

We found a walk/bike path which had this cute train mural along it. Reminded me of Wasson Way in Hyde Park in Cincinnati which is a fairly new walkway along an unused railroad track. I wondered if theirs was the same, hence the mural.

Sedona outside the Half Liter. I’m not quite sure if I understood its theme. On the interior it was German style. From the outside its vibing Western. I guess they did feature BBQ.

Food was delicious and filled with flavor. Definitely check it out if you are ever in this city.

Outdoor seating super cute facing the walkway. Looks difficult to upkeep.

We brewery hopped our walk home hitting a couple more spots which had dive bar decor and patrons.

On our drive to our Airbnb, we passed a cute restaurant spot that had a lot of cars parked out front. Seemed busy. We looked it up and made reservations for brunch the following day. Perfect first stop after sleeping in on a Monday.

From what we learned this is a second location for this restaurant named Gallery.

We took in all the attention to detail and unique decor.

Sedona snapped this photo of me across the table.

And this gorgeous capture of our cinnamon roll and matcha latte.

After brunch we headed downtown to see what was happening in the city.

This mural reminds me of Mr. Tarbell’s in downtown Cincy. Hoping he is also a local hero.

Interesting architecture at the arts center.

We later headed to a church that turned into a brewery. Highly recommend. Great beer choices.

The Airbnb host also recommended that we check out the old Coca Cola factory that was turned into a eatery. It’s called The Garage.

Nicely renovated. Had a cute clothing boutique that I wished I could afford and/or fit into.

Inside were all sorts of choices for food and drinks.

They had representation of the distillery I visited with Virlane, Hard Truth, so I had to also revisit the Bloody Mary.

I almost got into a car accident when viewing their library and government buildings. It felt like I was in D.C.

It has gorgeous grounds and view. Really well done. Unfortunately there are homeless near every public library in any major city.

This sculpture outside the library was eye-catching! I loved his long legs and headless body.

That’s one thing Cincinnati is lacking- sculpture.

The UB40 concert was held at a Butler University venue. We were commenting that it looked unfinished, with slabs of concrete and wires hanging off the balcony.

The band was fun and everyone was up swaying to the beat.

Its interesting how bands survive off their classics and change members along the way.

Was great getting away. Exploring a new city with Sedona. Trying new foods and enjoying a classic band. It doesn’t take much to live. Just enjoying our senses of what the world offers.

Scottsdale Arizona, Day 2- Bike Tour and Contemporary Art Museum

Zoe and I had such a great time on our electric bike tour in Caramel by the Sea last fall, I decided to book one for George and I in Scottsdale. With all that we saw on Day one, I wasn’t sure that the tour would really enlighten us that much more but it was an 11 mile ride, so we were optimistic.

The start of the trip. My butt started hurting immediately. I was not happy and remembered why I hated riding a bike.

We had electronic devices placed around our necks and ear pieces to hear the tour guide. This was an interesting touch and I thought for sure I was going to learn something. Our guide Andrew, age 36 going on 24, was randomly talking about nothing worth knowing. He’d comment about the housing prices and how places were touristy”. (I thought…does he know his audience?) He’d tell us where his friends and him hung out that were still not taken over by the tourists. When stopping at the bathroom, he noted he wouldn’t go into them because the homeless used them. It became a comedy show to George and I. How he said nothing positive about the city yet was paid to be a tour guide.

He told us how people in Scottdale buy waterfront property when next to the canal which he finds humorous. He also told us this river across from Tempe is filthy and they find dead bodies in it every year. It went on and on like this. Was so funny.

We stopped by the dirty river’s edge to look across at Tempe. They were having a music festival featuring Sheryl Crow. I was torn between spending money on the bike tour or the festival…..not sure I made the right decision there. But George and I planned to leave early Sunday to road trip so didn’t want a late night.

Someone fell off their bike at a turn, so we all stopped to wait.

There were a ton of the driverless cars on the streets of Scottsdale. We first thought they were mapping the area, but later found out they were the new Ubers. There’s an app to book them. Could’ve been a cool experience, but we had a rental car so there was no real reason to use them. We noticed on the bike tour that one of the driverless cars could not see us which was a bit scary as we were crossing the road.

Noticed this car advertising the gallery’s street art. That would have been a fun shop to check out.

As we drove quickly past a ton of sculpture and points of interest, which our tour guide said he was paid to point out even though they were uninteresting, George and I decided to walk back to take a better look after the bicycle ride ended.

And a bronze cowboy with his dog by the courthouse. Love the bolo, reminds me of my PaPa.

The LOVE sculpture you see in many cities.

Looks like pioneer days with the staircase to nowhere in the background. This statue stood outside of a historic school house.

I imagine there is a lot of history here with the Native Americans. If you haven’t watched Killers of the Flower Moon, you really should. It was sadly enlightening.

I wanted to go to Scottsdale’s Contemporary Art Museum, which I read was very small but nice. Cost $12 each to get in and lasted about 15 minutes to cover all the rooms.

They were featuring a modern artist named Dorothy Fratt who was born on the east coast but loved to paint in Arizona where she escaped influence.

Walking among the projected images on the floor.

I truly loved Scottsdale’s art offerings to the public. It was a beautifully put together town with history, art, shopping, great food, baseball and nature. What more could you want for a weekend visit?

Scottsdale Arizona, Day 1 part 2 – Cactus League Spring Training and Goldwater Brewery

After crossing my two touristy goals off our Friday list, we decided to take a free trolley to the ballpark to watch a San Francisco Giant’s spring training game. We had no idea this was going on in Scottsdale during our stay, but George spent 10 years in San Francisco and was a huge fan. How could we pass up the small venue opportunity?

It was $35 per person to enter at the gate. I wondered if tickets were cheaper online or purchased in advance, but it didn’t matter. We were here for the experience and neither of us had ever been to a major league spring training game before.

The Cincinnati Reds were also in town but playing at a different ball park.

In the cloudless sky the sun was coming in hot! But the seats were great.

It was pretty cool seeing this game and walking the small stadium.

There were lawn seats available which is where a lot of families were camped out. We witnessed a couple of home runs. It was fun seeing the kids run to get the balls on the grass and then stay in that spot hoping for another to come their way. Innocence and simplistic joys in life.

We stood in line to have a worker snap our photo. Yep we are officially tourists here. No shame.

George got a baseball hat remember our moment. I was enjoying every minute of it.

We walked to the Goldwater Brewery after the game, while heading in the right direction to where our dinner reservations were for that night.

Both of our phones were running low on battery, so we sat near a plug and enjoyed a flight of beers.

I purchased this teeny marble rabbit at a gem store. The shop owner noticed my rabbit necklace and led me to a basket of rabbit stones. How could I resist. I kept him in my pocket and found I enjoyed having him along for the ride.

We eventually climbed up to the balcony to sit for one more drink as the sun went down. It’s in these moments together that we recognize the simple life is best. A moment to talk with a less clustered brain. Breathing in the fresh air and the beauty life has to offer around us.

Mission Church was a historic landmark and now a small restaurant. This place was so dark inside even the younger people couldn’t read the menu. We all had our phone flashlights out with no way to know what was being offered on the menu.

I finally took a photo of mine so I could enlarge it more to read. They had the best margaritas of any place we went. Deliciously fresh, non chemical or sugar educed and knocked us on our ass. 🙂

After dinner we continued walking back and saw even more sights in the Old Towne area. I stumbled into another bar with some fun music playing, but George quickly steered me out knowing another drink was not what was needed.

There was an entire street of nothing but galleries. Peering in at the variety of art each store displayed.

Covington Historic Mansion Walk

Tuesday was another sunny day for the February books. I had dinner plans with Kevin and we decided to try to meet up earlier, while the sun was still out, to walk along the Ohio River. With no real agenda, we decided to cross the Roebling Bridge into Covington, Kentucky.

Kevin had mentioned the mansion walk to me previously when discussing options of where to take folks when visiting us in Cincinnati. I haven’t been there before so we decided to head that way.

This is a statue, one of many along this street, of Mr. Roebling himself with his bridge in the background.

The views from this quiet street are stunning of the skyline across the water. I can’t believe in all my years living in Cincinnati I’d never been here before.

The sun was beginning to set and casted a beautiful pink into the eastern sky.

I made Kevin pose next to this gentleman who was obviously reading something interesting. Up close the textures captured in the bronze were beautiful. I loved the diversity of the sculptures.

The Native American sculpture captured a man who honorably won several battles and was an excellent leader for his people. Capturing him with the historic mansion in the background, a clash of cultures.

A view of the riverboats. They are building a ton of apartments here but the area is still so quiet its surreal. No traffic.

The last statue on the walk. I read a little bit about each but can’t remember much. Kevin and I decided our memories aren’t going, but rather history just doesn’t interest us. Its not age. Its limited interest.

This house was huge and beautifully restored.

The tall lean statue on the porch of this brick mansion made it feel haunted.

We ate at a small sandwich shop named The Gruff which is right at the end of the Roebling. I got a non-alcoholic beer as I attempt my one week of not drinking. Helpful that they have IPA non alcohol options now, which are satisfying. I’m experimenting with how not drinking affects me. So far, not witnessing too many changes except falling asleep is a bit of a bitch.